Distance and means of transport for the journey from Vinh to Thanh Hoa 2025

1. Overview of the journey from Vinh to Thanh Hoa

1.1 Location and geographical distance

Vinh is the economic and cultural center of Nghe An province. It is considered the southern gateway of the North Central region, a crossroads between the dynamic Central region and the vibrant Northern region. Located on the vital transportation route of National Highway 1A and the North-South expressway, Vinh connects conveniently with Thanh Hoa, the northern neighboring province with a rich history and outstanding tourism potential.

The distance from Vinh to Thanh Hoa is about 150 km. (Source: Collected)

The distance from Vinh to the center of Thanh Hoa ranges from 135 to 150 km, depending on the travel route. Currently, the Dien Chau - Nghi Son expressway has been officially put into operation, significantly shortening travel time to only about 2.5-3 hours by car. The synchronized and modern transportation system, along with the scenery on both sides of the road - featuring green mountains, vast fields, and peaceful countryside - offers travelers a journey that is both convenient and relaxing.

With its strategic connecting location, the Vinh - Thanh Hoa route not only serves travel needs but also opens up opportunities for inter-regional exploration tourism, allowing visitors to easily experience historical sites of the Nghe region, the blue sea, and cultural heritage of the Thanh region within a single trip.

1.2 Average travel time

Thanks to the modern transportation infrastructure, the journey from Vinh to Thanh Hoa is now faster and more convenient than ever. Depending on the chosen mode of transport, the average travel time ranges from only 2.5 to 4 hours.

The journey from Vinh to Thanh Hoa is convenient thanks to developed transportation. (Source: Collected)

Traveling by car or bus saves time, taking only about 2.5 to 3 hours for a distance of over 130 km. The Dien Chau - Nghi Son expressway significantly shortens travel time, providing a smooth, safe, and comfortable travel experience.

If you prefer freedom, tourists can choose a motorbike to explore the Vinh - Thanh Hoa route themselves. The journey takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, including time for rest, photos, and sightseeing. The road is quite flat, passing through peaceful countryside, beaches, and gentle mountain slopes, suitable for a leisurely road trip.

2. Main routes from Vinh to Thanh Hoa

2.1 Fastest route: North-South Expressway (Nghi Son - Dien Chau)

Traveling along the Nghi Son - Dien Chau expressway is currently the optimal choice for the journey from Vinh to Thanh Hoa in 2025. From the center of Vinh, just follow the expressway north, then connect via National Highway 45 to easily reach the center of Thanh Hoa, with a total length of about 135 km.

The Nghi Son - Dien Chau Expressway connects Vinh to Thanh Hoa. (Source: Collected)

The advantage of this expressway lies in its good and modern road surface quality, few intersections, and moderate vehicle density. Therefore, the route helps shorten travel time to only about 2 - 2.5 hours. The system of traffic signs and safety barriers is synchronously invested, providing a stable and reassuring driving experience even for those who rarely travel long distances.

The cost of using the expressway ranges from 90,000 - 120,000 VND for cars, commensurate with the convenience and time savings this route offers. With scenery of plains interspersed with low mountains on both sides, the Dien Chau - Nghi Son expressway is not only the fastest route but also a journey that provides a relaxing, modern, and safe experience.

2.2 Traditional Route: Old National Highway 1A

Traveling along National Highway 1A is still a familiar choice for many tourists who enjoy the feeling of traveling through residential areas and coastal villages. The route is about 150 km long, passing through Quynh Luu - Nghi Son - Sam Son before reaching the center of Thanh Hoa.

Travel time on this route usually lasts from 3 - 3.5 hours, due to high traffic volume and many intersections. However, in return, the route offers many attractive stopping points where tourists can rest, dine, or explore local culture. Roadside restaurants, small cafes, and seafood markets make the journey more intimate and lively.

Thanh Hoa center is a destination for many tourists. (Source: Collected)

On the way, you can stop at Cua Lo beach to watch the sunrise, enjoy fresh Hai Hoa seafood, or visit Sam Son beach in Thanh Hoa. The journey along National Highway 1A is not just a trip from one point to another, but also an opportunity to experience the culture, cuisine, and daily life of Central Vietnam.

3. Popular means of transportation

3.1 Buses and Limousines

The journey from Vinh to Thanh Hoa currently offers many bus and limousine options, with frequent departures throughout the day, from early morning to late night. The average travel time is 2.5 - 3 hours, suitable for both business and leisure travelers.

Binh Hoai Bus Company specializes in the Vinh - Thanh Hoa route. (Source: Collected)

Ticket prices range from 250,000 - 600,000 VND, depending on the vehicle type, amenities, and operating company. Reputable companies such as Hoang Long, Van Luc Tung, Binh Hoai, Quang Dung… provide stable, safe, and punctual services.

Luxury limousine buses are equipped with massage seats, air conditioning, USB charging ports, wifi, and spacious interiors, offering a more comfortable travel experience. Popular pick-up points are at Bac Vinh bus station or the eastern bus station, drop-off points are at Thanh Hoa bus station or directly on central streets and wards.

3.2 Train

The North - South railway line is a stable and safe option for the journey from Vinh to Thanh Hoa, covering a distance of 144 km. The average travel time is about 2 hours and 30 minutes, offering a relaxing experience and opportunities to enjoy the scenery along the way.

There are many daily train services connecting the two stations, including trains SE20, SE8, SE6, SE10, SE4, SE2 operating continuously. Ticket prices are flexible, ranging from 62,000 VND to over 240,000 VND, depending on the seat class (soft seats, air-conditioned sleeper berths).

Vinh Station is the starting point for the train journey to Thanh Hoa. (Source: Collection)

Advantages of trains include stable operating hours, minimal impact from weather, passengers can carry a lot of luggage, and rest fully throughout the journey. This is a suitable option for families with young children, the elderly, or tourists who want to travel safely and comfortably.

3.3 Motorbike / Personal Car

Driving yourself from Vinh to Thanh Hoa is an attractive option for those who love the experience of freedom and exploring the scenery of the Central region. The route is about 135 - 150 km long, you can take the Nghi Son - Dien Chau expressway to shorten the time, or National Highway 1A if you want to admire the coastal villages.

Many tourists choose private cars for the journey from Vinh to Thanh Hoa. (Source: Collected)

Before departing, you should carefully check your vehicle, fill up fuel at stations in Quynh Luu or Tinh Gia, and avoid traveling at night to ensure safety. A personal journey allows stops at many notable points such as Cua Lo beach, Hai Hoa, Am Tien pagoda, Ho Citadel, or traditional craft villages of Thanh Hoa.

The trip is not just a journey connecting two destinations but also an experience of the culture, nature, and people of the North Central region, creating memorable moments along every route.

4. Experience and notes when traveling

To ensure the journey from Vinh to Thanh Hoa is smooth, safe, and fully experienced, tourists should prepare thoroughly before departing. A few notes below will help make your trip smoother and more memorable:

Book tickets early when choosing buses or limousines, prioritize reputable platforms like Vexere, MoMo, or the official websites of the companies to ensure good seats, especially on weekends or holidays.

Carefully check your private vehicle before departing, including brakes, tires, lights, and fuel level, to avoid breakdowns on the way.

Prepare raincoats, drinking water, and your route, especially if traveling by motorbike; this will help you be more proactive in case of changing weather or when you need to find directions quickly.

Depart early in the morning (6 AM - 8 AM) to take advantage of the cool weather, arrive in Thanh Hoa before noon, and have more time to rest and visit notable attractions during the day.

Use Google Maps or Zalo Map applications to look up routes, find rest stops, gas stations, and convenient restaurants along the way.

Maintain a stable speed, obey traffic signs, especially when passing through residential areas or intersections, to ensure absolute safety.

5. Combine tourism in Thanh Hoa

5.1 Nui Nua - Am Tien

After completing the journey from Vinh to Thanh Hoa, tourists can continue their exploration to Nui Nua - Am Tien, one of the typical spiritual and ecological tourist destinations of Thanh Hoa. Located in Tan Ninh commune, this area is notable for the majestic Nui Nua mountain range, a tranquil meditation space, and lush green natural scenery year-round.

The “Huyen Tich Am Tien” project has just broken ground. (Source: Collected)

Notably, Am Tien is considered the place marking the legend of Lady Trieu - a national heroine of the 3rd century, carrying profound cultural, historical, and spiritual values. The relic site is currently being oriented by Thanh Hoa province to develop the 'Huyen Tich Am Tien' project, expected to become a key spiritual tourism center for the North Central region. The project aims to both preserve heritage and expand the space for cultural-spiritual experiences combined with ecological resort stays, meeting the trend of sustainable tourism in the future.

5.2 Lam Kinh Relic Site

The Lam Kinh relic site is one of the most important historical sites in Vietnam. It was once the second capital of the Hau Ly dynasty, associated with the Lam Son uprising and the life of national hero Le Loi.

Visitors to Lam Kinh can admire ancient architectural relics, the temple dedicated to King Le Thai To, the royal family's mausoleum, along with ancient forests providing shade year-round. The atmosphere here is both solemn and sacred, evoking a sense of touching the nation's historical flow. Additionally, the relic site hosts the Lam Kinh festival in the eighth lunar month, recreating the heroic atmosphere of victory and honoring the Vietnamese spirit of 'drinking water, remembering its source'.

5.3 Sam Son Beach

Concluding the spiritual and cultural exploration journey, visitors can visit Sam Son Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the North. Located about 16 km from Thanh Hoa city center, Sam Son captivates visitors with its fine white sand, clear blue waters, and modern tourist facilities.

The sea square is a venue for cultural and entertainment events in Sam Son. (Source: Collected)

Here, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Sam Son Sea Square. This is a new highlight of Thanh Hoa tourism with light shows, water music performances, and a large-scale outdoor festival space. Besides swimming, visitors can also experience kayaking, watch the sunrise over Hon Trong Mai, or enjoy fresh seafood at seaside restaurants.

The Vinh to Thanh Hoa journey in 2025 offers many diverse and convenient options for travelers. Thanks to modern transportation infrastructure, reasonable costs, and short travel times, this is an ideal opportunity to experience the beauty of the two lands. Prepare thoroughly and start your journey today!