This guide invites you on a journey to explore the rich traditions of Tet, the scenic routes that crisscross the country leading to heartwarming reunions, and the soulful experiences that await in the homeland of Vietnam.
Whether you're riding through the verdant Mekong Delta, exploring the historical streets of Hanoi, or delving into the central highlands' mysteries, travel to Vietnam during Tet Holiday is about discovering the essence of family, renewal, and joy. Join us as we embark on this homeward journey, uncovering the beauty of Vietnam during its most magical season.
Route 1: Travel From Ho Chi Minh City to Central Vietnam
Leaving the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find several routes heading towards the central parts of Vietnam. These paths are famous for their breathtaking views.
Your trip can vary from a short 200 km ride to Binh Thuan or a longer adventure stretching up to 1,079 km to Quang Tri. Rather than just following the busy National Highway 1A, why not try the scenic coastal roads? These take you through 10 beautiful provinces by the sea, including Binh Thuan, Ninh Thuan, Khanh Hoa, Phu Yen, Binh Dinh, Quang Ngai, Quang Nam, Danang, Hue and up to Quang Tri.
Along the way, don’t miss the beautiful coastal views in Phu Yen, the unique mix of sea and mountains in Ninh Thuan, and the serene Quy Hoa Valley in Binh Dinh.
If you want to travel from Nha Trang to Quang Ngai, you might also consider through the Central Highlands. Places like the Dong Duong intersection in Kon Tum and the stunning Mui Dien cape in Phu Yen are worth the visit.
How long the trip takes depends on how you want to travel. If you push through with a few stops, going from Ho Chi Minh City to Quang Tri could take you about 24-30 hours. But if you’re in no rush, why not take your time and enjoy overnight stays in places like Phu Yen, Khanh Hoa, or Da Nang?
Travelers who’ve done this trip suggest setting off early, avoiding riding after dark for safety and taking short 15-30 minute breaks at cafes along the road. Finding a place to stay is easy, with options from simple roadside inns to city hotels.
This way, you get to enjoy the journey just as much as the destination, making your Tet celebration even more memorable.
Route 2: Travel From Ho Chi Minh City to the Central Highlands - Dalat
For those heading to Dalat from Ho Chi Minh City, the journey is as rewarding as the destination. With five different paths to choose from, each offers its own set of beautiful sights and landmarks.
1. The Nature Lover’s Path (Approx. 360 km): Start with Trị An, then to Nam Cat Tien, Da Teh, and through the picturesque Deo Con O and Deo Ta Nung before reaching Dalat. This route is perfect for those who want to connect with nature, recommend an overnight stop in Nam Cat Tien or Da Teh, making it a day-and-a-half trip.
2. The Coastal and Mountain Trail (Approx. 515 km): This longer route takes you from Ba Ria to the beaches of Lagi and Phan Thiet, through the dunes of Bau Trang, the coastal beauty of Vinh Hy and Cam Ranh, to Song Pha, and finally, Dalat. It’s a scenic two-day journey with plenty of stops for sightseeing.
3. The Scenic Route (Approx. 430 km): Passing through Ba Ria, Ho Coc, Lagi, and the serene Tanh Linh and Ho Dam, before tackling the challenging Gia Bac Pass to Bao Loc, Ta Nung, and Dalat. It’s advised to take two days for this trip, especially with the narrow and winding roads of Gia Bac Pass.
4. The Adventurous Route (Approx. 443 km): Similar to route 3 but includes Ke Ga and Phan Thiet, offering a mix of beach and mountain vistas. This two-day journey also requires caution on the Gia Bac Pass.
5. The Alternative High Road (Approx. 400 km): For those looking to avoid the Gia Bac Pass, this route goes from Ba Ria to Ho Coc, Lagi, Ke Ga, through Phan Thiet, then takes the Deo Luong Son - Dai Ninh route to Duc Trong, Ta Nung, and finally Dalat. It’s a bit over 400 km and offers a diverse landscape.
All routes promise memorable views and lead-through areas with plenty of places to stay and eat. To make the most of your trip, it’s wise to plan your stops, book accommodations ahead, and enjoy local food along the way. This ensures you not only reach Dalat refreshed but also have a journey filled with beautiful memories.
Route 3: Travel From Ho Chi Minh City to Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Nong
Begin on a journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Buon Ma Thuot, covering about 320 km, introducing a relatively easy and direct route. This path, rich in scenic beauty and cultural landmarks, passes through Binh Phuoc, Dak Nong, and Dak Lak provinces, making it a journey through the heart of Vietnam's natural splendor.
Departure: Your trip begins in the hustle of Saigon, leading you to National Highway 13. This road takes you through Binh Duong, reaching a major crossroad known as So Sao. Following this route brings the traveler to Loc Ninh and the Hoa Lu Border Gate in Binh Phuoc.
Continuing on National Highway 13, you'll venture through Provincial Road 741, touching Tinh Bien and Phu Giao, with a recommended pause in Dong Xoai. This leg of the journey is not just a transit; it's an opportunity to experience the vibrant local life and landscapes.
Approaching Dak Lak: The route then merges onto National Highway 14 towards Dak Lak. This stretch of the journey, passing Bui Dang and Dak R'Lap, leads to Gia Nghia in Dak Nong, where you might arrive around noon. For those seeking less traffic and more scenic views, the border road, National Highway 14C, offers an alternative route to Dak Mil (Dak Nong), bypassing Gia Nghia.
Final Stretch: From Dak Mil, the final leg to Buon Ma Thuot spans approximately 60 km. This section is adorned with natural wonders, including the Dray Sap and Dray Nur waterfalls, making the journey not just a travel but an exploration.
Journey's End: Typically, this route is completed within a day, but for those inclined towards sightseeing, a stop in Gia Nghia offers a chance to immerse in local culture and nature. The area is dotted with homestays and farm stays like Yumin Farm House and Hoa Dat Garden, providing a cozy retreat.
Exploring Around: Within a short distance from Gia Nghia, Dak Nong reveals its treasures such as Ta Dung National Park, the volcanic landscapes of Nâm Kar, and the serene Lieng Nung Waterfall, each a testament to the region's natural beauty.
This route, blending ease of travel with the allure of Vietnam's countryside, promises not just a journey but an experience, woven with the threads of adventure, culture, and the tranquility of nature.
Route 4: Travel From Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta (Southern Vietnam)
Traveling to the Mekong Delta by motorbike opens up a world of scenic beauty and cultural richness. Here are four routes that promise diverse experiences for riders:
1. Start on National Highway 1, then detour at Phu My Intersection into a series of provincial roads (866, 865, and 867) before looping back to National Highway 1. This path lets you dive into the heart of Tien Giang’s countryside, offering a more intimate look at the Delta’s rural life.
2. This route also begins on National Highway 1 but takes a detour through Provincial Road 868 and Tu Kiet Road, rejoining National Highway 1 later. Be aware of potential traffic at Cai Lay Intersection, a small bump in an otherwise smooth journey.
3. Following National Highway 1, this route veers off at Vo Viet Tan towards Thanh Tam and Cai Lay, then onto Provincial Road 868 and Tu Kiet Road, before looping back. It offers a blend of main roads and local paths, providing a taste of the Delta’s varied landscapes.
4. Starting on National Highway 1, this route takes you through Vinh Long City and onto National Highway 57, Provincial Road 882, and then back onto National Highway 60 via Ham Luong and Rach Mieu Bridges, ending at Trung Luong Intersection. It’s a longer ride that covers several key Delta provinces, ideal for those who want to see as much as possible.
Travel Tips: The Mekong Delta is relatively close to Ho Chi Minh City, with the furthest province, Cà Mau, being around 179 km away. The journey is generally pleasant, but keep an eye out for speed bumps. Spring visits are highly recommended, especially for those interested in exploring the Delta’s famous flower villages like Tan Quy Dong in Sa Dec or Cai Mon in Ben Tre.
Each route offers a unique perspective of Southern Vietnam, from its lush landscapes to vibrant local life. Whether you’re on a day trip or a longer adventure to travel to Vietnam during Tet Holiday, these paths promise a memorable journey into the heart of the Mekong Delta. Enjoy the ride and the beauty of Tet around the corner!
