Is it better to take the train?

The train is a scenic experience, but it is slow and often costs as much as a budget flight. Use the train only if you have extra time and want to see the countryside.

Do I need to carry cash?

Yes. While big hotels take cards, street stalls, markets, and small taxis rely entirely on Vietnamese Dong (VND).

How to plan a 14-day trip across Vietnam

Focus on three distinct regions—North, Central, and South—to avoid spending your whole trip in transit. Book your internal flights between Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City to save days of travel time compared to buses or trains.

Select your direction. Most travelers fly into Hanoi (North) and out of Ho Chi Minh City (South), or vice versa. Stick to this one-way route to maximize your time on the ground rather than backtracking.
Book internal 'hops'. Vietnam is long. Take a flight from Hanoi to Da Nang (for Hoi An/Hue) and another from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City. Each flight costs about $40–$70 and takes 80 minutes, compared to 15+ hours by train.
Prioritize your stops. Limit your itinerary to 4-5 major base locations. Trying to hit every city will leave you exhausted; focus on Hanoi, Ha Long/Lan Ha Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City.
Sort your visa before leaving. Apply for the official Vietnam e-visa at least 14 days before your departure. Do not rely on 'visa on arrival' services unless you have a pre-approved letter, which is an unnecessary complication.

Is it better to take the train?: The train is a scenic experience, but it is slow and often costs as much as a budget flight. Use the train only if you have extra time and want to see the countryside.
Do I need to carry cash?: Yes. While big hotels take cards, street stalls, markets, and small taxis rely entirely on Vietnamese Dong (VND).