Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is located in the center of the country. It is directly connected to the Nguyễn Dynasty. During the Vietnam War it went through hard times when it was conquered by Viet Cong and then bombarded by the Americans. Many travelers visit the city for the Imperial Citadel and the Tombs of the Emperors.
Quick summary
Trains are the best choice for traveling between Hanoi and Hue. You’ll spend 13-15 hours traveling but you’ll be in a comfortable bed with AC and also have access to restaurant car. If you are in a hurry, consider flying (about three times as expensive as the train).
Flights from Hanoi (airport code: HAN) to Hue
Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is the airport serving Hanoi , a hub for Air Mekong and Vietnam Airlines. Hue is served by Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) and only receives flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Flights between the two cities are run only by Vietnam Airlines, which means there’s no competition on the route and the rates are not very low. If you book via large booking engines (such as Kayak), a single adult fare starts at US$200. On local websites you can find flights (for the same dates and airline) from US$87. The flight time is 1h 10 min.
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Trains from Hanoi to Hue
Hue is located on the North – South ‘Reunification’ Main Line, which connects the capital of Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Over the years this route has seen some improvements, all trains having AC cars.
There are 6 main trains connecting Hanoi to Hue daily (more connections available during the Tet holiday period). The travel time between the two cities is between 13 hours and 15 hours, depending on the train you choose. Overnight trains are available.
The SE1 (7 p.m. daily) and SE3 (11 p.m. daily) trains are the best choices as they have three types of sleepers , all with AC and a restaurant car. Tickets range from 442000 dong / US$21.20 (soft seat, AC) to 748000 dong / US$36 (soft sleeper AC).
>>read more about Train travel in Vietnam
Buses from Hanoi to Hue
There are frequent buses connecting Hanoi to Hue, a route which is mostly popular among locals. The travel time is 13-14 hours and if you have problems with motion sickness it’s advisable to choose another means of transportation. For this route, tourists are advised to take the train as it offers a more comfortable alternative at good prices.
>>read more about Bus travel in Vietnam