From Can Tho to Hoi An: The ultimate guide for the best trip

by Bliss Hoi An May 30, 2025 29

Can Tho and Hoi An are both captivating destinations in Vietnam, each bursting with unique charm and unforgettable experiences. If you’re planning to travel from Can Tho to Hoi An, this guide has everything you need, from travel options and ideal itineraries to insider tips, to make your journey smooth and unforgettable!

Why is traveling from Can Tho to Hoi An so popular?

The journey from Can Tho to Hoi An is a beloved route for travelers, blending diverse landscapes and rich cultural experiences. Can Tho, the vibrant heart of the Mekong Delta, captivates with its bustling floating markets, verdant rice paddies, and lively local culture. Meanwhile, Hoi An – a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Central Vietnam enchants with its well-preserved ancient town, vibrant lanterns, and deep historical roots.

This route seamlessly connects the serene, water-bound south with the artistic allure of the central coast, offering a multifaceted travel adventure. History enthusiasts, food lovers, and nature aficionados alike find something to cherish, from exploring cultural landmarks to savoring local cuisines. Improved infrastructure and varied transportation options, including buses, trains, and flights, make the journey accessible for all.

4 popular ways to travel from Can Tho to Hoi An

Getting from Can Tho to Hoi An, approximately 900 km apart, can be done in several ways, each with its own advantages, limitations, and considerations. Here’s a breakdown of the four most popular options: bus, plane, self-driving (motorbike or car), and train to help you choose the best fit.

Take a flight

Flying from Can Tho to Hoi An is the fastest and most popular option, with a 1.5-hour flight to Da Nang followed by a 45-60-minute taxi or Grab ride to Hoi An. It means that the total journey takes about 3-4 hours, including transfers. At the same time, domestic airlines provide comfortable, reliable, and cost-effective flights. These two benefits make going by plane an excellent choice for those valuing speed and convenience over budget considerations.

Obviously, flying from Can Tho to Hoi An is costlier, with flights priced at $50-$150 USD depending on the airline and booking timing, compared to the other options. Additionally, you’ll need to arrange a 45-60-minute transfer from Da Nang to Hoi An, increasing costs and planning efforts. Remember to book flights early for deals, use Grab for an affordable $10-$15 USD ride from Da Nang. If checking visa requirements is necessary, ensure you verify them in advance as e-visas require at least three business days to process.

Going by bus

Traveling from Can Tho to Hoi An by bus is budget-friendly, with sleeper or limousine bus tickets costing $15-$25 USD. Sleeper buses, equipped with reclining seats, air conditioning, wi-fi, and blankets, make the overnight journey comfortable somehow. Unlike trains and planes, buses go directly to Hoi An, avoiding transfers via Da Nang. This affordable, direct route with modern amenities suits budget travelers seeking convenience, though the long travel time requires patience.

However, the bus journey from Can Tho to Hoi An, spanning 16-20 hours, can be tiring due to long travel times and unpredictable traffic, especially during peak seasons like Tet. While deluxe buses offer comfort, standard ones may feel cramped. You should book tickets in advance through platforms with competitive prices and flexible schedules, and choose reputable companies for better service to ensure a smoother trip.

Self-driving (motorbike or car)

Self-driving from Can Tho to Hoi An offers flexibility to stop at scenic spots like Nha Trang or Ho Chi Minh City, or enjoy local eateries. Motorbiking provides a thrilling adventure through Vietnam’s stunning landscapes, ideal for experienced riders. Renting a car (starting at $30-$50 USD daily), on the other hand, is cost-effective for groups or families, ensuring comfort. This 2-3 day trip suits those craving freedom and exploration, blending adventure with the chance to discover Vietnam’s diverse beauty at your own pace.

*Motorbiking provides a thrilling adventure through Vietnam’s stunning landscapes*

Driving a motorbike or car is adventurous, but it’s also challenging due to chaotic roads and a 20-24 hour journey requiring stamina and an international license for motorbikes. Car rentals typically include a driver, increasing costs, so use reputable agencies and plan rest stops. To ensure a smooth and safe journey, select reputable rental agencies, carefully inspect vehicles for reliability, and plan rest stops before the trip

Travelling by train

Traveling by train from Can Tho to Hoi An is time-consuming. You need to take 18-22 hours from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang train station first, then a 45-minute transfer. Together with this, limited direct routes require accessing stations like Ninh Kieu and arranging onward travel. Lower-class cabins may be less comfortable, so book 4-berth sleeper cabins for privacy. Purchasing tickets through Vietnam Railways is highly recommended due to their reliability and secure booking system.

Despite these limitations, taking a train provides a scenic experience with stunning views of Vietnam’s countryside along the North-South Railway. Comfortable 4-berth sleeper cabins provide privacy and relaxation for overnight travel, making it ideal for long journeys. This affordable, immersive option combines adventure and comfort, perfect for travelers seeking a picturesque and restful trip.

4-day itinerary to explore from Can Tho to Hoi An

A 4-day journey from Can Tho to Hoi An is the perfect way to experience the highlights of Southern and Central Vietnam. This itinerary balances travel, sightseeing, and relaxation, with opportunities to visit key destinations along the way. Below is a suggested plan, including possible stopovers.

Day 1: Discovering Can Tho’s Mekong Delta

Morning: Cai Rang Floating Market and local life

Book a boat tour at Ninh Kieu Wharf for Cai Rang Floating Market.
Enjoy pho or hu tieu breakfast on the water.
Visit a rice noodle village to observe traditional noodle-making.
Lunch on Mekong specialties like banh xeo (crispy pancakes) or ca loc nuong chui (grilled snakehead fish).

Afternoon: Cultural exploration and cuisine

Explore Cai Khe Market for local produce and souvenirs.
Visit Can Tho Museum to learn about regional history.
Rent a bicycle for a countryside ride through rice paddies and orchards.

Evening: Riverside relaxation

Stroll along Ninh Kieu Wharf to enjoy river views and city lights.
Trying lau chua ca (sour fish hotpot).
Book a night bus to Hoi An or prepare for a morning flight.

Day 2: Can Tho’s countryside and departure

Morning: Rural adventures

Rent a motorbike or join a tour to Phong Dien Floating Market, a quieter, authentic market to experience the local vibe and have breakfast.
Visit Binh Thuy Ancient House, a 19th-century home featured in The Lover.
Stop at a fruit orchard to sample mangosteen, oranges or rambutan.
Lunch on xoi lua (sticky rice steamed with coconut milk, topped with mung beans) and oc nuong tieu (grilled snails with pepper and spices) at a local eatery.

*Stop at a fruit orchard to sample mangosteen, oranges or rambutan*

Afternoon: Departure to Da Nang

Transfer to Da Nang.
Make use of time to have a light meal Da Nang like banh trang cuon thit heo (sliced pork rolled with rice paper) or che sau (durian sweet soup).

Evening: Arrival in Hoi An

Check into accommodation and take a short stroll through Hoi An Ancient Town.
Dine on com ga Hoi An (fragrant chicken rice with flavorful herbs)

Day 3: Hoi An’s Ancient Town and cultural immersion

Morning: Exploring the Ancient Town

Stroll through Hoi An Ancient Town

Start at 8:00 AM with a walk of Hoi An Ancient Town.
Purchase an Old Town ticket ($5 USD) to access key sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge, a 16th-century icon, and the Fujian Assembly Hall, known for its ornate architecture.
Visit Tan Ky House, a well-preserved 200-year-old merchant home, to learn about Hoi An’s trading history.
Stroll through Hoi An Market to browse souvenirs like silk lanterns or tailored clothing.

Afternoon: Local flavors and spiritual spots

Enjoy some local foods like banh mi Hoi An, kinds of pancakes, nuoc mot (herbal iced drink)
Visit Quan Cong Temple, a serene 17th-century site dedicated to a Chinese general, for a quiet cultural moment.

Evening: Lantern-lit riverside experience

As dusk falls, explore Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets along the Thu Bon River, starting around 6:00 PM.
Take a floating lantern boat ride ($5 USD) for a magical experience, especially during the full moon Lantern Festival if your visit aligns.
Have home-cooked dinner with ca nuc kho (mackerel fish stew), canh chua (sour soup), thit rang (caramelized pork) in a cozy setting.
End the night at a riverside café, enjoying views of glowing lanterns from its rooftop.

*Lantern-lit riverside experience along the Thu Bon River*

Day 4: Hoi An’s beaches and artisan villages

Morning: An Bang Beach and relaxation

Rent a bicycle ($1-$2 USD) and cycle 15 minutes to An Bang Beach at 8:00 AM.
Enjoy a light breakfast at a beachfront café.
Swim or sunbathe on this pristine, less crowded beach, known for its soft sand and clear waters.
For a cultural twist, visit Tra Que Vegetable Village (10-minute bike ride from Hoi An), where you can join a short farming tour ($10-$15 USD) to learn about organic herb cultivation.

Afternoon: Artisan villages and shopping

Return to Hoi An for lunch at Ba Le Well.
Visit Thanh Ha Pottery Village to see artisans crafting traditional ceramics.
Alternatively, explore Kim Bong Carpentry Village, known for its woodcarving heritage.
Spend the late afternoon shopping for tailored clothing or handmade lanterns at local stalls.

Evening: Farewell to Hoi An

Enjoy a final stroll through Hoi An’s Ancient Town, soaking in the lantern-lit ambiance around 6:30 PM.
Dine with specialties like banh bao banh vac (white rose dumplings) with river views.
Sip bia hơi (local draft beer) at a riverside bar or join a street food tour ($25 USD) to sample dishes like banh trang nuong (Vietnamese pizza).
Reflect on your journey and prepare for onward travel, such as a taxi to Da Nang (45 minutes, $10-$15 USD) for flights or buses.
Arrange transport to Da Nang for departure.

Places to combine with your journey

The route from Can Tho to Hoi An unlocks opportunities to explore other iconic destinations along the way, adding an extra layer of adventure and culture to your trip.

Ho Chi Minh City – The largest city in Vietnam

Combining your trip from Can Tho to Hoi An with a stop in Ho Chi Minh City adds an exciting dimension to your journey! You’ll experience the bustling energy of Vietnam’s largest city, from its vibrant markets and delicious street food to historical landmarks like the War Remnants Museum and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Ho Chi Minh City serves as a fascinating contrast to the calm rivers of the Mekong Delta and the ancient charm of Hoi An, offering a well-rounded and enriching travel experience.

Nha Trang – A stunning coastal paradise

Nha Trang is a coastal paradise known for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife. Here, you can dive into exhilarating water sports, soak in natural hot springs, and unwind on pristine sands. It’s also a hub for delicious seafood, fresh off the boat each morning. Adding Nha Trang to your itinerary ensures you’ll get a full taste of Vietnam’s natural beauty and cultural diversity in one unforgettable trip!

*Nha Trang is a coastal paradise in Vietnam*

Da Nang – The worth-living Vietnamese city

Combining your trip from Can Tho to Hoi An with a stop in Da Nang – one of the most worth-living cities in Vietnam elevates your adventure. This destination is famous for its long, sandy beaches, the breathtaking Marble Mountains, the striking Dragon Bridge and so on.

Notably, Da Nang’s unique and sublime cuisine, from the spicy Quang noodles to savory seafood dishes, promises to delight your taste buds with every bite. Adding Da Nang to your itinerary creates a seamless link between the historic streets of Hoi An and the rustic charm of Can Tho, giving you a richer, more varied Vietnamese experience.

Smart hacks for your Can Tho to Hoi An journey

To ensure a fulfilling exploration, you should follow the essential tips.

Best time to visit

The best time to travel from Can Tho to Hoi An is from February to April, when both regions enjoy pleasant weather. Can Tho is warm and dry, with temperatures around 25-30°C, while Hoi An experiences clear skies and moderate temperatures (20-25°C). Avoid the rainy season in Hoi An (October-January) and the hot season in Can Tho (May-August) for a more comfortable trip.

Accommodation

In both Can Tho and Hoi An, you’ll find accommodation options for every budget, from charming homestays for under $20 a night to luxurious riverfront resorts over $100. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons like festivals and holidays, as the best places fill up fast.

Getting around

Getting around Can Tho and Hoi An is easy and fun! In Can Tho, you can get around by bicycle, motorbike, or taxi, while boats are a must for any floating market tour. Hoi An’s Ancient Town is pedestrian-only, but bicycles ($1-$2 USD/day) and motorbikes ($5-$10 USD/day) are perfect for nearby beaches or villages. Download Grab for convenience and always carry Vietnamese Dong, as cash is king for small vendors in rural areas.

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Traveling from Can Tho to Hoi An is a journey through Vietnam’s heart and soul, blending the Mekong Delta’s rustic charm with Hoi An’s timeless beauty. Whether you choose. With thoughtful planning and the right timing, this trip will leave you with memories of Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and rich culture. Start planning your adventure today, and let the enchanting journey from Can Tho to Hoi An awaken all your senses!