How to get from Hue to Hoi An

Hue and Hoi An are two renowned destinations that draw countless tourists to Vietnam. The fact that they are located in close proximity makes it incredibly convenient to visit both places. If you are seeking guidance on how to travel between the two cities, the following 5 options will prove to be valuable.

Distance from Hue to Hoi An

The ancient city of Hoi An, nestled in the downstream area of Thu Bon River in Minh An Ward, Quang Nam Province, takes pride in its close proximity to Hue and easy accessibility via Hai Van Pass and the city of Da Nang. With a mere 130 km distance separating the two destinations, there are plenty of transportation options available to facilitate transit between the two locales.

To assist you in your journey from Hue to Hoi An, we suggest the five most popular and convenient means of transportation frequently chosen by a multitude of tourists. Additionally, we analyze the advantages and disadvantages of each mode of transportation, enabling you to select the optimal option for your visit.

• Hoi An Tours from Da Nang

How to Get from Hue to Hoi An?

Travel from Hue to Hoi An by Train

Travelling by train provides a scenic route to admire, however, a bus transfer is required from Da Nang to Hoi An as there is no railway station in Hoi An.

+ Booking: Vietnam Railways offers approximately seven daily train departures from Hue to Hoi An, with three ticket options available: hard seat, soft seat, and soft berth. You can purchase train tickets online via the Vietnam-Railway website or directly at Hue Railway Station (located at 2 Bui Thi Xuan Street).

+ Route: The train journey entails a passage through the Hai Van Pass, arriving at Da Nang Railway Station (located at 791 Hai Phong). From there, a bus or taxi is required to complete the final leg of the journey to Hoi An.

+ Duration: The train ride takes approximately 2.5 hours to reach Da Nang Station, followed by a one-hour bus ride to Hoi An.

+ Cost:

• Train ride: 100,000 – 120,000 VND ($3-5) per one-way ticket
• Bus ride from Da Nang to Hoi An: 150,000 – 200,000 VND ($5-8) per one-way ticket

+ Pros and cons: Train travel is an economical and safe option, offering stunning views of the Hai Van Pass along the way. However, the time-consuming and complicated process of booking tickets and catching a bus or taxi are notable disadvantages. Additionally, the train may be noisy and shaky, potentially causing discomfort for traveling with children.

• Linh Ung Pagoda – Marble Mountain – Hoi An Tour

Travel from Hue to Hoi An by Open Bus

This option is widely regarded as one of the cheapest and most common means of transportation. Modern buses and vans now run directly from Hue to Hoi An, making it an ideal choice for larger groups looking to enjoy each other’s company during the journey.

+ Booking: Numerous reliable bus companies offer services, including Thu Sinh Tourist, Camel Travel, Phuong Trang Travel, Hanh Cafe, and Hoi An Express. Information regarding phone numbers, prices, and bus types can be found on their websites. It’s essential to arrive at the bus stop 30-60 minutes prior to departure time.

+ Route: The bus travels directly from Hue to Hoi An without any stopovers.

+ Duration: Taking the open bus from Hue to Hoi An typically takes 1.5 hours, which is considerably faster than traveling by train.

+ Cost: One-way tickets range from 115,000 – 185,000 VND ($4.80-8).

+ Pros and cons: Advantages include affordability and time-efficiency, with a diverse range of bus companies catering to varying budgets. However, little privacy and potential noise disturbance from fellow passengers are notable disadvantages of this mode of transportation. Additionally, disorganized situations may arise during bus travel.

• My Son Sanctuary Tour

Motorbike

Traversing the Da Nang-Hoi An route by motorbike is a unique adventure, particularly for those with a love for thrill-seeking, with a distance of just over 100 km. Along the way, you will witness the breathtaking Bach Ma Mountain and spectacular Hai Van Pass.

+ Booking: If you prefer to rent a motorbike instead of using your own, consider rental agencies such as MotorVina or Hue Motorbike Rental. Another option is to join a motorbike tour with other adventurers, such as the one offered by Le Family Riders, which provides a professional guide and stops at five renowned destinations for photos and relaxation: Elephant Spring, Fishing Village, Hai Van Pass, Da Nang City, and Marble Mountain.

+ Route:

• Via Hai Van Pass: Rest halfway to admire the stunning beauty of Lang Co and Hai Van Quan. Exercise caution while driving on this road, particularly at night or early morning, to avoid traffic dangers and theft.
• Via Hai Van Tunnel: Park your motorbike at the Hai Van Tunnel management office before the tunnel, then transfer by car while your vehicle is transported on a truck to the opposite side of the tunnel. Collect your bike at the other side before resuming your journey.

+ Duration: Travelling independently takes roughly 3-4 hours, while a motorbike tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

+ Cost: Motorbike rentals in Hue range from 185,000-347,000 VND ($8-15) per person. A motorbike tour costs around 1,500,000 VND ($58).

+ Pros and cons: The most appealing aspect of this method of transportation is the ability to take short breaks to admire stunning landscapes. However, this journey poses high risks and requires excellent physical and mental strength to navigate the treacherous Hai Van Pass. Remarkable driving skills are necessary to overcome unexpected obstacles on the road. Moreover, travelling by motorbike is costlier and more time-consuming than other modes of transportation.

• Cham Island Tour

Taxi/Private Car

Travelling to Hoi An from Hue by taxi or private car is a worthwhile expense due to its convenience. With the plethora of luxurious minivans and taxis available, you can expect high-quality service and utmost comfort during your journey. Additionally, if you request it in advance, your driver can make stops halfway for scenic exploration.

+ Booking: Dichung Taxi is a reputable company offering transportation services, and you can book their transfer service via their website dichungtaxi.com. A booking confirmation email with a unique ticket code will be sent to your email address.

+ Route: The taxi/private car will make stops at Elephant Spring, Cau Hai Lagoon, Lap An Lagoon, Lang Co Bay, Hai Van Pass, and Marble Mountain for you to soak up the breathtaking scenery.

+ Duration: The journey to Hoi An typically takes 2-3 hours.

+ Cost: Ranging from 1,700,000-2,200,000 VND ($75-95) per car.

+ Pros and cons: Travelling by taxi/private car provides safety, comfort, and privacy, and allows you to avoid extreme weather conditions during hot summers or rainy days. You can also relax at various stops, take photos, or indulge in delicious seafood along the coast. However, this method can be costly for solo travelers and prevents you from feeling the wind or breathing in fresh air during the journey.

Travelling from Hue to Hoi An by Seaplane

Travelling from Hue to Hoi An by seaplane is the fastest but most expensive method of transportation.

+ Booking: Hai Au Aviation is the primary provider of seaplane services, and you can book your flight from Hue to Hoi An on their website at seaplanes.vn.

+ Route: The flight path is a direct route, departing from Phu Bai International Airport (Address: Zone 8, Phu Bai Ward, Huong Thuy District, Thua Thien Hue Province) and landing at Danang International Airport (Address: Duy Tan Street, Hoa Thuan Tay Ward, Hai Chau District, Danang City).

+ Duration: The journey by seaplane from Hue to Hoi An takes approximately 40 minutes.

+ Cost: One-way tickets cost approximately 3,500,000 VND ($155).

+ Pros and cons: This method of transportation offers an extraordinary view of the breathtaking scenery from above. However, the cost is the main disadvantage, being significantly higher than other options.

• Best Da Nang Tours

There are various ways to travel from Hue to Hoi An, each with its unique advantages and disadvantages. Going by train provides a budget-friendly and safe journey, but it can be time-consuming and complicated. Taking an open bus is a time-saving and affordable option, but it can be crowded and lacks privacy.

Driving a motorbike is an adventurous choice, allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, but it can be physically and mentally challenging. Travelling by taxi or private car provides the utmost comfort and privacy, but it can be costly for solo travelers.

Finally, taking a seaplane is a fast and extraordinary way to admire the beautiful scenery from above, but it comes at a high price. Consider the pros and cons of each option to select the best mode of transportation that fits your travel style, budget, and schedule.