Guide on how to get to Hoi An for all travelers
Hoi An, with its lantern-lit streets and centuries-old charm, is one of Vietnam’s most captivating destinations. Whether you’re starting from within Vietnam or flying in from abroad, knowing how to get to Hoi An is essential to planning a smooth and enjoyable trip. In this guide, you’ll find all the transportation options from major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hue, as well as tips for international travelers arriving via Da Nang Airport.
How to Get to Hoi An from Major Cities in Vietnam
If you’re already in Vietnam and wondering how to get to Hoi An, there are several convenient routes from the country’s major cities. Each city offers different transportation options depending on your budget, travel style, and time availability. Whether you’re starting in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or Hue, this section will walk you through the best ways to reach Hoi An efficiently and comfortably.
From Hanoi to Hoi An
Traveling from Hanoi to Hoi An offers several options depending on your time, budget, and preferences. You can choose to fly, take the train, or travel by bus.
- By plane – The fastest and most convenient option
The easiest and quickest way is to fly from Hanoi to Da Nang International Airport, which is the closest airport to Hoi An. The flight takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways operate multiple daily flights on this route.
Once you arrive at Da Nang Airport, it’s easy to continue your journey to Hoi An by taxi, Grab, or shuttle bus, which takes around 30 to 45 minutes. In total, the travel time usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Flight tickets typically range from 800,000 to 2,000,000 VND one way, depending on the airline and when you book, while taxi fares to Hoi An cost approximately 250,000 to 400,000 VND.
- By Train – For those who enjoy scenic and leisurely travel
Taking the train is a great choice if you want to save money and enjoy the beautiful Central Vietnam landscape. Trains from Hanoi to Da Nang take about 15 to 17 hours. From Da Nang train station, you can take a taxi or bus to Hoi An.
Popular trains on this route include SE1, which departs at 22:20 and arrives at 13:25 the next day, with a journey time of about 15 hours and 5 minutes. Other options like SE3, SE5, SE7, SE9, and SE19 run at various times, with travel times between 15 and 17 hours. Ticket prices range from 464,000 VND for a seat to between 779,000 and 1,029,000 VND for air-conditioned sleeper cabins. You can easily book tickets through official websites or trusted agents.
- By Bus – Budget-friendly for backpackers
If you don’t mind the long trip, sleeper buses are an economical option. Some bus companies run routes from Hanoi to Da Nang or directly to Hoi An, with a journey time of about 17 to 18 hours. Some bus services even provide pick-up and drop-off directly in Hoi An or transfers from Da Nang, which adds convenience to this cost-effective choice.
Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An
Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An is quite straightforward with several convenient options.
- By plane
The fastest and most popular way is to fly directly from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City) to Da Nang International Airport. The flight duration is about 1 hour 20 minutes, and multiple airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways offer several flights daily.
Once you land in Da Nang, it takes about 30 to 45 minutes to reach Hoi An by taxi, Grab, or shuttle bus. This makes flying the best option for those who want to maximize their time exploring Hoi An and minimize travel stress. Flight prices typically range from 700,000 to 1,800,000 VND one way, depending on the booking time and airline.
- By train
The train journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang takes approximately 16 to 20 hours depending on the train service. Popular trains such as SE2, SE4, SE6, and SE8 offer comfortable air-conditioned seats and sleeper cabins. After arriving in Da Nang, you can take a taxi or bus to Hoi An. Train ticket prices vary, generally ranging from 400,000 to 1,000,000 VND, depending on the class of seat or sleeper cabin you choose.
- Sleeper bus
Alternatively, sleeper buses operate regularly between Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang or Hoi An. The trip usually takes about 18 to 20 hours and is often a budget-friendly option. Prices for sleeper bus tickets are typically between 400,000 and 700,000 VND. Some bus companies offer direct routes to Hoi An, while others stop in Da Nang, requiring a transfer.
From Da Nang to Hoi An
Da Nang is the closest major city and transportation hub to Hoi An, making travel between the two very convenient. The distance is about 30 kilometers, and there are several transportation options to get you from Da Nang to Hoi An quickly and comfortably.
- By taxi or ride-hailing services
The easiest and most popular way is by taxi or ride-hailing services like Grab. The ride typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs around 250,000 to 400,000 VND. This option is perfect for travelers who want a direct and hassle-free transfer, especially if you have luggage or are traveling in a group.
- By local bus
For a more economical choice, local buses run regularly between Da Nang and Hoi An. Bus number 1 is the most common route, operating every 15 to 30 minutes from Da Nang city center to Hoi An. The journey by bus takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, and the fare is very affordable, usually around 20,000 to 30,000 VND per ticket. This option suits budget travelers who don’t mind a bit of local experience.
- By motorbike rental
Motorbike rental is also a popular choice for adventurous visitors who want more freedom to explore the surrounding countryside. The ride from Da Nang to Hoi An by motorbike takes roughly 45 minutes. However, be cautious and wear appropriate safety gear, as the roads can be busy and sometimes challenging for unfamiliar drivers.
Read more: How far is it from Hoi An to Da Nang? What is the fastest way to get there?
From Hue to Hoi An
Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, lies about 145 kilometers north of Hoi An. Traveling between these two culturally rich cities is quite straightforward, with several options available to suit different preferences.
- By car, private taxi
One of the most popular ways to get from Hue to Hoi An is by car or private taxi. The drive along the scenic Hai Van Pass takes about 3 to 3.5 hours and offers stunning views of mountains and coastline. This option is ideal for travelers looking for comfort and flexibility, especially if you want to stop along the way to take photos or explore small towns.
- By buses
If you prefer public transport, there are regular buses that run between Hue and Da Nang, and some continue on to Hoi An. The bus journey usually takes around 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and stops. Buses are affordable and suitable for budget travelers, with fares typically ranging from 100,000 to 150,000 VND.
- By train
Another choice is to take a train from Hue to Da Nang, which takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. From Da Nang, you can continue to Hoi An by taxi or bus as described earlier. Train travel offers a comfortable and scenic experience through central Vietnam’s countryside.
How to get to Hoi An from international destinations
For travelers coming from abroad, the most convenient way to reach Hoi An is by flying directly to Da Nang International Airport (DAD), which is the nearest airport to Hoi An, located about 30 kilometers away. Da Nang Airport serves many international flights from major cities across Asia, including Bangkok, Seoul, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, and Taipei. Depending on your country of departure, you may find direct flights or connecting flights via these regional hubs.
Upon arrival at Da Nang International Airport, you can easily get to Hoi An by taxi, Grab, or shuttle bus, with a travel time of approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the airport, and Grab is a popular and affordable option for many tourists. Shuttle buses or private transfers booked in advance are also convenient choices, especially for groups or travelers with a lot of luggage.
If your international flight doesn’t connect directly to Da Nang, another option is to fly into major Vietnamese airports like Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport) or Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport). From there, you can take a domestic flight to Da Nang and continue your journey to Hoi An as described above.
Important information about visa and required documents
When planning your trip to Hoi An, it’s essential to understand the visa requirements and necessary travel documents for entering Vietnam. Most international travelers need a visa to enter Vietnam, though the specific type and process vary depending on your nationality and length of stay.
Many visitors apply for a tourist visa, which can be obtained either before arrival at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate or through an online e-visa system available to citizens of certain countries. The e-visa is convenient, allowing travelers to apply online and receive approval electronically, typically valid for a single entry with a maximum stay of 30 days. It’s important to apply for the visa well in advance to avoid any travel delays.
For those arriving by air, passport control at Vietnamese airports will check your visa and travel documents. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date. Additionally, keep a printed or digital copy of your visa approval letter and any other required documents handy.
Some nationalities may be eligible for visa exemptions for short stays, so it’s wise to check the latest regulations from official Vietnamese government websites or consult your local Vietnamese embassy.
Besides visa requirements, travelers should also prepare other essential documents such as return or onward flight tickets and hotel booking confirmations, as immigration officers may ask for proof of your travel plans.
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No matter where your journey begins, getting to Hoi An is easier than you might think. With multiple transportation options, flexible budgets, and helpful visa guidelines, your adventure to this enchanting ancient town is just a few steps away. Keep this guide on how to get to Hoi An handy as you plan your trip, and get ready to enjoy one of Vietnam’s most unforgettable destinations. After a day of traveling, don’t forget to choose Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness as your relaxing place.
