With Lien Khuong temporarily closed, let us reimagine how Vietnam luxury travel unfolds to the highlands.
Dalat – a charming hill town draped in pine forests and French-colonial echoes – has long been a favorite destination for those seeking cooler climes, romantic landscapes, and slow, elevated travel. With the temporary closure of Lien Khuong Airport for runway upgrades (expected to last six months), reaching Dalat now calls for a more curated journey. And for travelers who value elegance over speed, the alternative routes offer opportunities to explore Vietnam in a more immersive and luxurious way.
Below is a detailed guide to reaching Dalat in comfort and style—through carefully designed land and air connections that align with the spirit of Vietnam luxury travel.
By Private Vehicle from Ho Chi Minh City
The most direct land route to Dalat begins in Ho Chi Minh City, approximately 300 kilometers to the south. While the drive can take between 6 to 8 hours, the journey through misty passes and verdant valleys can be transformed into an experience in its own right.
Guests may opt for:
- Chauffeured limousines or private SUV transfers, complete with on-board refreshments and tailored rest stops
- Self-drive arrangements with luxury car rentals and flexible schedules
The drive via National Route 20 and the scenic Lien Khuong – Prenn Expressway offers changing landscapes—from bustling lowland towns to winding mountain roads. It is a route best enjoyed unhurried, with curated stops for local cuisine or a private picnic overlooking tea plantations.
Via Nearby Airports + Ground Transfer
While Lien Khuong is under renovation, nearby regional airports provide excellent access points for a seamless air-land journey.
From Cam Ranh International Airport (Nha Trang)
- Distance to Dalat: approx. 160 km
- Flight time from Hanoi: 2 hours
- Ground transfer: 3–4 hours via private car or luxury van
For travelers arriving from northern Vietnam or international hubs, Cam Ranh offers frequent flight connections and well-established ground services. Upon arrival, we arrange private vehicle transfers through the Khánh Lê mountain pass, where ocean views give way to misty pine hills.
From Buon Ma Thuot Airport (Dak Lak)
- Distance to Dalat: approx. 200 km
- Flight frequency: Limited but viable from Hanoi or Da Nang
- Ground transfer: 3–4 hours via National Route 27
For those seeking a quieter, off-the-beaten-path approach, flying into Buon Ma Thuot allows for a more intimate journey across Vietnam’s Central Highlands. Our recommended route passes through coffee-growing villages, remote hillscapes, and the lesser-known Phi Nôm Pass, offering glimpses into rural Vietnam at its most authentic.
By Train + Scenic Drive
For travelers with time – and a desire for slow, scenic travel – rail journeys to Nha Trang offer a nostalgic alternative. From there, Dalat can be reached by private transfer.
- Rail route: From Hanoi, Hue, or Da Nang to Nha Trang
- Duration: 4 to 24 hours, depending on departure point
- Ground transfer to Dalat: approx. 3 hours
Private train cabins, panoramic windows, and fine dining on board are available for those seeking a refined rail experience. Upon arrival at Nha Trang Railway Station, a chauffeured vehicle will await to take you up the forested highlands to Dalat.
Why This Matters for the Luxury Traveler
The closure of a local airport is not a limitation – it is an invitation to slow down and elevate the journey. With bespoke planning, the route to Dalat can become as memorable as the destination itself. Whether arriving by train, via the sea-facing roads of Nha Trang, or crossing the high passes from Buon Ma Thuot, each option unlocks new ways to connect with Vietnam’s landscapes and culture.
Let Vietnam Luxury Tourism Curate Your Seamless Journey
Our travel specialists craft journeys that remove the hassle and restore the pleasure of movement. From door-to-door concierge services and luggage handling to handpicked rest stops and exclusive overnight experiences, every element is designed around comfort, flexibility, and refinement.
Let us design your next journey to Dalat – with elegance at every turn.
Explore our custom itineraries or speak directly with our travel designers to begin your journey.
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