Hoi An to Hue – Most scenic heritage route in Vietnam

by Bliss Hoi An July 11, 2025 5

In the sunny and windy land of Central Vietnam, the journey from Hoi An to Hue is like a beautiful heritage painting. One side is the quiet ancient town glowing with lanterns, the other is the majestic imperial city with rich history. This route gives you the chance to enjoy both stunning landscapes and unique culture. If you are planning to explore this path, here is a simple guide with transport options, scenic stops, and useful travel tips.

Hoi An to Hue: Distance and travel time

Nestled along Vietnam’s sunny central coast, Hoi An and Hue are often described as two gems of the country’s heritage. Hoi An is known for its quiet, ancient charm, while Hue shines with historical depth and poetic beauty. This contrast, yet harmony, makes the journey from Hoi An to Hue an experience every traveler should try at least once.

*Distance and travel time from Hue to Hoi An (source: Good morning Hoi An)*

Hoi An and Hue are approximately 120 – 130 km apart by road, depending on the route you choose. The shortest route follows National Highway 1A through the Hai Van Tunnel, covering about 120 km. If you’d rather conquer the scenic Hai Van Pass, the route stretches slightly longer at around 125 – 130 km.

On average, the trip takes about 3 – 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the breathtaking views along the way without consuming your entire day. The distance is just right for either a day trip or as part of a longer itinerary through Central Vietnam’s highlights.

With azure seas, majestic mountains, winding mountain passes, and tranquil fishing villages, the road from Hoi An to Hue is also a chance to discover the stunning natural beauty and rich culture of the region.

Read more: Planning Your Trip: How Many Days in Hue and Hoi An?

What is the best way to travel from Hoi An to Hue?

The journey from Hoi An to Hue isn’t too long, and there are several transportation options to suit different needs and preferences. Each offers a unique experience, from fast and convenient to leisurely and scenic.

Private car or taxi

If you prefer comfort, privacy, and flexibility, renting a private car or taxi is a great choice. You can stop anywhere along the way to take photos, rest, or enjoy fresh seafood.

Travel time is about 3 hours. Prices range from 1,400,000 – 1,800,000 VND per trip, depending on whether you choose a 4-seater or 7-seater. This is ideal for families or groups of 3–6 people traveling together without worrying about schedules.

Tourist bus

Buses are a popular choice among foreign visitors thanks to their affordable prices. The journey takes about 3.5–4 hours. Tickets cost between 250,000 – 400,000 VND per person, depending on the company.

Reliable operators include The Sinh Tourist and Hanh Cafe, which have daily Hoi An – Hue routes. Note that buses run on fixed schedules and stop at set locations. You should book in advance and arrive on time to avoid missing your bus.

Premium limousine bus

For a more comfortable experience than a regular bus, but cheaper than a private car, you can opt for a limousine minibus. These feature wide seats, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and sometimes complimentary water. Travel time is about 3 hours. Tickets cost around 350,000 – 500,000 VND per person. This is a great choice if you want to save money but still travel comfortably.

Train – Heritage rail experience

Taking the train from Da Nang to Hue is a unique experience, perfect for enjoying scenic views along the way. Since Hoi An doesn’t have a train station, you’ll need to travel about 30 km to Da Nang station before boarding.

You can relax in an elegant, cultural atmosphere with gentle Hue music playing in the background (source: Bao Lao Dong)

The railway runs along the coastline and over Hai Van Pass, offering breathtaking views of mountains and sea. In addition to standard SE trains, there are now special heritage trains (HĐ) designed for tourists, with premium service and a stop at Lang Co for photos.

Train	Departure (Da Nang)	Arrival (Hue)	Duration	Price
SE8	00:56	03:28	~2h30′	80,000 – 200,000 VND
SE6	10:30	13:38	~3h08′	80.000 – 200.000 đ
SE4	12:57	15:27	~2h30′	80.000 – 200.000 đ
SE2	13:55	16:19	~2h24′	80.000 – 200.000 đ
SE12	15:43	18:23	~2h40′	80.000 – 200.000 đ
SE20	18:05	20:36	~2h31′	80.000 – 200.000 đ
HĐ2 (Heritage)	07:50	11:00	~3h10′ (stops at Lang Co)	180,000 – 210,000 VND
HĐ4 (Heritage)	14:50	17:50	~3h00′ (stops at Lang Co)	180,000 – 210,000 VND

The Heritage Train from Da Nang to Hue is a wonderful way to fully experience the charm of Central Vietnam along its heritage route. The train offers a spacious, clean, and comfortable interior, with soft cushioned seats and large windows framing spectacular views of the Hai Van Pass and the serene Lang Co Bay.

Onboard, you can relax in an elegant, cultural atmosphere with gentle Hue music playing in the background, while enjoying light refreshments and drinks served in a dedicated carriage. A highlight of the journey is a 10-minute stop at Lang Co Station, where you can step out to breathe the fresh sea air and capture unforgettable photos.

Combining comfort, breathtaking scenery, and a touch of Hue’s cultural essence, this train turns the trip from Da Nang to Hue into a memorable and uniquely Central Vietnamese experience.

Interesting stops along the Hoi An – Hue route

The journey from Hoi An to Hue is more than just a road connecting two heritage cities, it’s also a chance to discover many scenic and memorable stops along the way. If you have time, don’t hesitate to pause and enjoy these highlights.

Hai Van Pass

Hai Van Pass is one of Vietnam’s most spectacular mountain passes. From the summit, you can take in sweeping views of Da Nang Bay, winding mountain roads, and the endless blue sea. It’s the perfect spot to breathe in the fresh air, snap stunning photos, and savor the feeling of conquering the heights.

Lang Co Bay

Just beyond the northern side of Hai Van Pass lies Lang Co Bay, named one of the most beautiful bays in the world. With its long stretch of white sand, crystal-clear waters, and surrounding mountains, Lang Co is both pristine and poetic. Many travelers stop here to rest, swim, or enjoy fresh seafood at the beachfront restaurants.

Read more: Lang Co beach : When to visit, what to do

Bai Chuoi

Tucked away at the foot of Hai Van Pass, Bai Chuoi is a hidden, untouched beach that hasn’t been heavily developed. Reaching the beach involves a short hike down from the pass, but you’ll be rewarded with a quiet, crystal-clear beach and soft sand, a true little “secret paradise” just for you.

Lap An Lagoon

Further along the way to Hue, you’ll find Lap An Lagoon – a stunning brackish water lagoon nestled between the mountains and the sea. Its scenery shifts beautifully throughout the day, especially at sunrise or sunset. Stop here to relax, enjoy a coffee, or sample the famous local oysters at one of the waterside eateries.

Tuy Van Pagoda and Thuan An Beach

If you have more time, you can take a small detour to visit Tuy Van Pagoda – a peaceful ancient pagoda set by the gentle Thuan An Beach. This spot combines the serene atmosphere of a sacred site with the calm beauty of the sea.

Tips and advice for traveling from Hoi An to Hue

To make your trip from Hoi An to Hue more enjoyable and hassle-free, here are some useful tips and things to keep in mind:

Book in advance during peak season

From March to September, especially around national holidays or summer weekends, transportation services tend to get fully booked quickly. If you plan to take a bus, train, or heritage train, it’s best to reserve your tickets at least 1–2 days in advance to secure your preferred seats and departure times.

Check the weather forecast

The route between Hoi An and Hue passes through Hai Van Pass, which can be foggy or rainy at times, especially during the rainy season (October to January). If you’re riding a motorbike or planning scenic stops, check the weather forecast to avoid poor visibility or slippery roads.

Pack light but prepared

Whether you take a bus, train, or motorbike, you’ll need to carry your luggage with you throughout the trip. Pack light, and remember to bring a small jacket, as it can get chilly or windy on the pass, even in summer. Also, don’t forget sunscreen, water, and a hat if you plan to stop at beaches or lagoons.

Drive carefully on Hai Van Pass

If you’re adventurous enough to rent a motorbike, drive carefully on the Hai Van Pass. The road is beautiful but has many sharp turns and steep slopes. Stay alert, avoid speeding, and watch out for large trucks and buses that also use the route.

Before setting off on your heritage journey to Hue, or when you return, treat yourself to a truly relaxing stay at Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness. Nestled by a serene stretch of beach just outside Hoi An Ancient Town, Bliss Hoi An offers luxurious rooms, a world-class spa, and peaceful ocean views. It’s the perfect place to recharge and savor the calm before or after exploring the vibrant culture and history of Central Vietnam.

Traveling from Hoi An to Hue is not just about moving between two cities. It is a trip full of memorable moments. Each bend of the road, each beach, and each mountain pass has its own charm. Choose the way that suits you, take time to enjoy the journey, and relax at Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort and Wellness to recharge before exploring more of Central Vietnam.

Traveling from Hoi An to Hue is more than just a way to reach another city. It is a journey full of beauty and discovery, where mountains, sea, and peaceful villages unfold along the way. Take your time, enjoy each stop, and let the charm of Central Vietnam leave you with unforgettable memories.