How to Get to Qui Nhon. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Phu Cat Airport UIH & Airlines

Phu Cat Airport (UIH) is the main domestic airport serving The Gateway to the central highlands, located approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) north of the central area.

Major Carriers & Routes

Several Vietnamese airlines operate flights: Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways.
Standard routes connect Quy Nhon to major Vietnamese cities, including Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), Hanoi (HAN), and Da Nang (DAD).
There are no direct international flights to Phu Cat Airport (UIH). International travelers must first fly into a major Vietnamese international airport.

International Access & Booking

International travelers will need a domestic connection. Allow ample transit time between flights.

Gateways & Planning

Link through Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, or Da Nang International Airport (DAD).
Allow at least 3 hours between international and domestic flights for immigration, luggage, and re-check.
Book domestic flights in advance, especially during peak season (May-August) or around major Vietnamese public holidays, for better availability and fares.

Seasonal Flight Pricing

High season (May-Aug) sees greater demand and increased prices. Low season (Oct-Feb) offers lower prices. Expect significant price hikes around public holidays.

Airport Services UIH

Phu Cat Airport is relatively small and modern, offering basic facilities including ATMs, limited currency exchange options, small cafes for snacks and drinks, and restrooms. Duty-free shopping is limited.

Airport Transfers

Options from UIH to A Hidden gem of vietnam city: Airport Taxi (250k-350k VND), Airline Shuttle Bus (approx. 50k VND per person), or ride-hailing apps like Grab (upfront pricing). Confirm fares before travel.

Air Travel Tips

Before You Fly

Allow at least 3-4 hours between domestic and international flights for seamless transfers.
Reserve internal flights in advance, specifically if traveling during peak season or holidays, for better availability.
Have small denominations of VND or USD ready for airport transfers if paying cash.
Consider downloading the Grab app and setting it up before you arrive for easy transport options.

Departure Day

Always confirm your flight, train, or bus departure times the day before you leave for updates.
For domestic flights from Phu Cat Airport, arrive no later THAN 1.5 to 2 hours before your scheduled departure.
Keep your passport and boarding pass easily accessible during all departure procedures.
Spend any remaining Vietnamese Dong on last-minute snacks or souvenirs before leaving the country, as it can be difficult to exchange outside Vietnam.

Connectivity and Flight Search

Flight Deals

Dollar Flight Club offers email alerts on cheap international and domestic flight fares, helping you save on air travel.

Flight Comparison

Skyscanner allows you to compare flight prices across various airlines and dates, finding the cheapest options for your journey.

Mobile Data

Airalo provides digital sims for immediate mobile data upon arrival, ensuring you stay connected without needing a physical SIM card.

Land Transportation

Train Services

Quy Nhon Railway Station (01 Tang Bat Ho Street) connects to Vietnam's main North-South "Reunification Express" railway line via a spur line.

Options & Booking

Provides direct or connecting services north to major cities like Da Nang, Hue, Hanoi, and south to Nha Trang, Phan Thiet, and Ho Chi Minh City.
Soft Sleeper berths are a popular choice for long overnight trains, offering comfortable and private compartments.
Train tickets bookable online via official Vietnam Railways (dsvn.vn), local travel agencies, or straight at the station. Book in advance for sleeper berths.

Long-Distance Buses

Quy Nhon Inter-provincial Bus Station (08 Hoang Minh Thao Street) serves as the hub for long-distance bus routes to most major cities and provinces across Vietnam.

Companies & Features

Numerous bus lines operate routes; popular and reputable operators include Futa Bus (Phuong Trang), Hoang Long, The Sinh Tourist, and Hanh Cafe.
Sleeper buses (known as "xe giường nằm") are common for overnight journeys, featuring reclining berths instead of seats for comfort.
Bus tickets can be purchased right at the bus station, through your hotel/guesthouse, or via local travel agencies in Quy Nhon.

Motorbike/Scooter Rental

Renting a motorbike or scooter is a highly sought-after option for tourists in Quy Nhon, offering flexibility for exploration.

Requirements & Safety

Legally, an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorbike endorsement is required alongside your domestic driver's license.
Daily rental rates for an automatic scooter typically range from 100,000 - 150,000 VND (US$4-6), not including fuel costs.
Always wear a helmet (legally required and usually provided). Drive defensively, as traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic.

Self-Drive Cars

Self-drive car rental for foreign tourists is not common or straightforward in Vietnam, due to licensing complexities.

Practical Alternative

It is generally more practical, safer, and recommended to hire a car with a driver for longer journeys or day trips.
This option is commonly more relaxing and efficient for exploring beyond the city center.

Road Conditions & Safety

Vietnamese traffic, especially in urban areas, can be chaotic, with many motorbikes, cars, and walkers sharing the road.
Motorbike accident rates are high. Exercise extreme caution if you choose to drive a motorbike yourself.
On rural roads, be aware of livestock (cows, chickens) that may wander onto the road, specifically in less developed areas.

Night driving can be hazardous due to poor lighting in some areas, unmarked obstacles, and unlit vehicles. Avoid long-distance driving at night if possible.
National Highway 1A, a major artery connecting north and south, passes close to Quy Nhon and is generally well-maintained. Roads within Quy Nhon city are also good.
Generally, no special permits are required for regular tourism activities within Quy Nhon and its immediate surroundings.

Sea Travel & Departure

Local Boat Excursions

Sea transport in A Land of pristine beaches and ancient cham towers is mainly for tourist excursions to offshore islands and secluded beaches, not for regular passenger ferry services.

Destinations & Departures

Boats are necessary to reach popular spots like Ky Co Beach, Hon Kho Island, and Cù Lao Xanh (Green Island).
Typically depart from Nhon Ly fishing village (for Ky Co, Eo Gio, Hon Kho) or Ham Tu Port in Quy Nhon city (for Cù Lao Xanh).
These boat trips are usually arranged as part of a tour package (often includes snorkeling and lunch) or by hiring a a regional boat directly.

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes are collected directly from passengers as you leave Vietnamese airports, as these are typically part of your flight cost.

Airport Departures

For domestic flights from Phu Cat Airport (UIH), arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your scheduled departure time.
Always confirm your flight, train, or bus departure times the day before you leave for any last-minute changes.
Phu Cat Airport offers basic facilities for departing travelers, including check-in counters, a departure lounge, and food stalls.

Getting Around Tips

Transparent Rides

Use Get for upfront pricing and easy booking of taxis or motorbikes, avoiding negotiation hassles.

Embrace the Stroll

Walk along the beachfront promenade for enjoyable strolls and fresh sea air, especially in the mornings or evenings.

Guided Comfort

Consider hiring a car with a driver for comfortable day trips outside the city, leveraging knowledge of the local area.

Seamless Journeys

Navigating Quy Nhon is straightforward with various options for every travel style. Plan your airport transfers, understand local transport, and prioritize safety on the roads for a smooth experience.

How to Get to Qui Nhon