Best ways to travel from Hoi An to My Son Sanctuary

Just 40 kilometers west of Hoi An lies the mystical My Son Sanctuary – a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by lush mountains and steeped in the history of the Champa Kingdom. Although the distance isn’t far, understanding the most convenient and enjoyable way to get there can make your journey smoother and more enriching. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about traveling from Hoi An to My Son Sanctuary, from transport options to cultural highlights along the route.

Distance from Hoi An to My Son

The distance from Hoi An Ancient Town to My Son Sanctuary is approximately 40 to 45 kilometers, depending on the route you take. On average, it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to travel, depending on the mode of transportation and how often you stop along the way.

The most common route is via National Highway 1A, then turning onto Provincial Road DT610 to reach the My Son Sanctuary. This is an easy and fairly flat route, suitable for both motorbikes and cars. Along the journey, you’ll pass through peaceful countryside villages, lush green rice fields, and tranquil rivers – a picturesque landscape that captures the essence of Central Vietnam.

Read more: My Son Sanctuary Vietnam – Champa cultural heritage 

How to travel from Hoi An to My Son

Although the distance from Hoi An to My Son Sanctuary is not very long, knowing the route clearly and choosing the most suitable means of transportation will help you save time and have a more comfortable experience on your journey to explore this historical land.

By private car (self-drive or with driver)

Traveling from Hoi An to My Son by private car offers great flexibility and comfort, making it a popular choice among tourists. You have two main options: renting a car with a driver or renting a self-drive car, depending on your preference and confidence behind the wheel.

If you choose to rent a private car with a driver, the service usually includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a knowledgeable driver who may communicate in basic English, and waiting time at My Son while you explore. This option lets you relax and enjoy the journey without worrying about navigation or traffic laws. The driver can also make stops at scenic or cultural spots along the route if you request. The trip typically takes around one hour each way, covering about 42 kilometers of mostly smooth, well-maintained roads.

Alternatively, if you feel confident driving in Vietnam, you can rent a self-drive car. Many car rental companies in Hoi An offer vehicles suitable for tourists, including compact cars and SUVs. This option gives you complete freedom over your schedule and the ability to stop wherever and whenever you like. However, keep in mind that driving in Vietnam can be challenging for foreigners due to busy traffic, local driving styles, and road conditions. Be sure to familiarize yourself with Vietnamese traffic laws, have a valid international driving permit, and drive cautiously.

Both options have similar rental costs, generally ranging from 700,000 to 1,000,000 VND (about 30–40 USD) for a round trip, although self-drive rentals might have additional fees like insurance deposits. Whether you choose to drive yourself or hire a driver, traveling by private car ensures a comfortable, convenient journey with the chance to enjoy the beautiful rural landscapes and cultural stops along the way.

By public bus 

If you’re traveling on a budget and want to enjoy the peaceful countryside scenery of Central Vietnam, the newly launched public bus route connecting these two UNESCO World Heritage Sites is a highly recommended option. Officially put into operation in April 2025 by Quang Nam Province, this 98-kilometer bus route is part of a broader effort to enhance the tourist experience and link major destinations in Central Vietnam.

The bus departs from the Hai Ba Trung parking lot, located just a short walk from Hoi An Ancient Town. This makes it extremely convenient for travelers staying in the city center. From there, the route goes directly to My Son Sanctuary without the need for any transfers, saving time and effort compared to traditional public transport options. 

Although located about 17 kilometers from Hoi An Ancient Town, Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness is just a short 30-minute drive from Hai Ba Trung Bus Station, where the My Son bus departs. This makes it an ideal base for your trip, not only for easy access to the bus route, but also as a peaceful place to unwind after a full day of exploring the Cham cultural heritage at My Son Sanctuary.

The journey takes about 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of opportunity to enjoy the scenic countryside – lush rice fields, winding rivers, and the simple rhythms of rural life in Central Vietnam. 

The ticket price for the Hoi An–My Son leg is VND 150,000 per person (approximately 6 USD), which is very reasonable for foreign tourists seeking a comfortable, straightforward transportation option with designated pick-up and drop-off points. The bus runs at least four times a day, giving you flexibility in planning your itinerary.

Another great advantage of this route is its accessibility. You don’t need to bargain with drivers or navigate unfamiliar roads. Tickets can be purchased directly through official websites, or even via your hotel’s reception desk in Hoi An. The booking process is easy and traveler-friendly, especially for those who are not fluent in Vietnamese.

This direct bus service offers a reliable and stress-free way to visit My Son Sanctuary, especially for foreign travelers who prefer not to drive themselves or deal with complex public transport transfers. With a clear schedule and dedicated service, it allows you to fully enjoy your cultural journey to this sacred and ancient site.

By motorbike 

Renting a motorbike from Hoi An to My Son Sanctuary is also an experience worth trying. The distance is about 40–45 kilometers, and the roads are generally easy to navigate with light traffic, making it ideal for a day trip. The journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your speed and how often you stop for photos or breaks along the way. Starting early in the morning allows you to enjoy the cool air and avoid the midday heat.

One of the biggest advantages of riding a motorbike is the flexibility to stop wherever you like. Along the way, you can visit places such as Kim Bong Carpentry Village, Nam Phuoc Market, endless rice fields, or simply take a break at a roadside café in the countryside. The natural scenery and peaceful rural life offer a memorable glimpse into Central Vietnam.

Motorbike rentals in Hoi An range from 120,000 to 180,000 VND per day, depending on the type of bike and rental shop. Most places provide helmets and a basic map. A scooter is a comfortable option, while a manual bike is more fuel-efficient for longer rides.

However, keep in mind that the last stretch of road leading to My Son includes some winding turns and has limited street lighting. It’s best to avoid riding after dark. Also, be sure to carry identification, fill up your fuel tank in advance, and double-check the bike’s condition before setting off to ensure a safe trip.

If you’re confident in your riding skills and looking for a more adventurous way to reach My Son, traveling by motorbike is an excellent option. It’s budget-friendly and offers a more immersive, off-the-beaten-path experience through the charming countryside of Quang Nam.

By shuttle bus

Among the various ways to get from Hoi An to My Son Sanctuary, the shuttle bus stands out as one of the most popular options, especially for international travelers. It offers a hassle-free, time-saving experience without the need to navigate or drive yourself, making it ideal for short trips.

Most shuttle buses depart in the morning, typically between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM, and offer hotel pickup within Hoi An’s Old Town area. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, bringing passengers directly to the entrance of the My Son complex. Many services include an English-speaking guide on board, giving you valuable insights into the history and cultural significance of the ancient Champa civilization.

Along the way, you’ll pass through the peaceful countryside of Quang Nam province, with scenic rice fields, quiet village roads, and glimpses of local daily life. While the shuttle doesn’t stop at points of interest like a motorbike ride might, it makes up for it with comfort, air-conditioned seating and no worries about traffic or directions.

Round-trip fares usually range from 200,000 to 300,000 VND (around $8–$12 USD), depending on the provider and whether the entrance ticket to My Son is included. Some operators also offer enhanced experiences, like early morning tours to catch the sunrise at the sanctuary or additional stops at nearby craft villages like Kim Bong.

Read more: My Son Sanctuary Tour

Notable stops along the way to  My Son Sanctuary from Hoi An

The journey from Hoi An to My Son is more than just a trip to a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s also a chance to discover the quiet charm and rich traditions of rural central Vietnam. If you have extra time, consider stopping at some of these scenic and cultural gems to enrich your experience.

Hoi An silk village

Located just 1.5 kilometers from Hoi An Ancient Town, Hoi An Silk Village is a living museum that preserves the centuries-old traditions of silk weaving in Vietnam. Visitors can walk through mulberry gardens, witness the silkworm lifecycle, and explore traditional Cham-style houses that once belonged to silk merchants. The village also offers guided tours that explain each step of silk production, from cocoon to finished fabric.

Beyond just learning, travelers can interact directly with artisans and even try weaving themselves. There’s also a boutique that sells high-quality silk clothing, scarves, and tailored ao dai (Vietnamese traditional dresses). With its tranquil garden setting, Hoi An Silk Village is an ideal place to pause, especially if you’re interested in Vietnamese culture, fashion, or history.

Giao Thuy bridge and the Thu Bon river

Crossing Giao Thuy Bridge gives travelers a unique vantage point over the Thu Bon River, a lifeline of Quang Nam Province. The river is flanked by vast rice fields and dotted with small fishing boats – a picturesque slice of the countryside that’s especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. Many travelers pause here briefly to take photos or simply enjoy the view.

The bridge and river are not official attractions, but their beauty lies in their simplicity. As you drive past, you’ll see water buffalo grazing in the distance, fishermen casting nets, and homes with thatched roofs shaded by coconut trees. It’s a reminder of the slow, harmonious pace of life in rural Vietnam and adds depth to the journey toward the ancient temples of My Son.

Kim Bong carpentry village

Just a short ferry ride or a 10-minute drive from Hoi An, Kim Bong Carpentry Village is nestled on Cam Kim Island along the Thu Bon River. This historic village was once known as the cradle of skilled woodworkers who contributed to imperial architecture in Hue and the iconic wooden structures of Hoi An. Walking around, you’ll hear the sound of chisels tapping and see craftsmen shaping wood into boats, furniture, and traditional carvings.

What makes Kim Bong special is its commitment to preserving traditional techniques. The locals use hand tools instead of machines, keeping the craft as authentic as it was hundreds of years ago. Visitors can join woodworking workshops, commission custom-made items, or simply stroll through the village lanes, enjoying the peaceful riverside scenery and watching boats glide by.

Nam Phuoc market

Nam Phuoc Market, located about halfway along the route to My Son, is a lively hub that captures the daily rhythms of rural life in Central Vietnam. Though not built for tourists, it’s a great place to see local produce, household goods, and the kinds of traditional foods locals actually eat. Early morning is the busiest time, as farmers and traders from nearby communes gather to sell their wares.

As you wander through the crowded stalls, you’ll find tropical fruits like mangosteen, rambutan, and jackfruit alongside ready-to-eat treats like bánh bèo, bánh nậm, and iced Vietnamese coffee. The market also offers an unfiltered look at local life — from haggling grandmothers to school kids stopping by for breakfast. It’s a cultural detour that offers color, flavor, and spontaneity.

Chien Dan Cham Towers

Often overlooked by tourists, the Chien Dan Cham Towers sit quietly on the edge of Tam Ky City, about 10 km southeast of My Son. Built between the 10th and 11th centuries, these towers are lesser-known relics of the Champa Kingdom. Unlike the more famous My Son complex, Chien Dan is rarely crowded, making it perfect for quiet reflection and photography.

The site features three brick towers adorned with weathered carvings of deities and sacred animals. Although partially damaged by time and war, the towers still convey a sense of spiritual significance. There’s also a small on-site museum with Cham artifacts, stone statues, and translated explanations. If you’re interested in history and architecture, this detour offers valuable context to your visit to My Son.

With scenic landscapes, welcoming local villages, and historical charm waiting around every turn, this short trip from Hoi An to My Son Sanctuary offers a deeper glimpse into the heart of Central Vietnam. Choose the travel option that suits your style, and get ready to uncover the ancient secrets of My Son now!