Hue to Hoi An by train: Scenic journey, travel tips & relaxing stay

Traveling from Hue to Hoi An by train is a journey through some of the most stunning coastal and mountain landscapes in Central Vietnam. The route crosses the iconic Hai Van Pass, where you can witness panoramic views of the sea, lush hills, and picturesque fishing villages. For many travelers, this train ride becomes an unforgettable highlight of their trip, combining convenience with breathtaking scenery. Let’s see how to travel by train from Hue to Hoi An, with some useful travel tips.

Is there a direct train from Hue to Hoi An?

Many travelers often ask: “Is there a direct train from Hue to Hoi An?” The answer is no, because Hoi An does not have a railway station. The ancient town lies about 25 to 30 km away from Vietnam’s North – South railway line, so you cannot travel directly from Hue to Hoi An by train.

The closest stop is Da Nang Railway Station. From Hue, you can take a train (around 2.5–3.5 hours) to Da Nang, and then continue the journey to Hoi An by taxi, Grab, shuttle bus, or private car. This final transfer only takes about 30–45 minutes, which is very convenient.

Another option is Tam Ky Station in Quang Nam, but it is farther from Hoi An and fewer trains stop there. That’s why most travelers choose Da Nang Station.

In short, there is no direct Hue to Hoi An train, but you can easily combine a scenic Hue – Da Nang train ride with a short transfer to reach Hoi An. This way, you not only travel comfortably but also enjoy the stunning views of the Hai Van Pass from the train window.

How to travel from Hue to Hoi An by train

Traveling by train from Hue to Da Nang or Quang Nam is one of the most enjoyable experiences when visiting Central Vietnam. This is one of the most beautiful coastal railway routes, taking passengers through Hai Van Pass, Lang Co, and Da Nang Bay – sceneries that are often hard to fully enjoy when traveling by car.

For seating, you can choose from:

• Air-conditioned soft seats: comfortable for a short trip of about 2–3 hours, with ticket prices ranging from 70,000 – 90,000 VND.
• Air-conditioned sleeper berths (4 or 6-bed cabins): ideal if you prefer more privacy and rest, with prices from 150,000 – 220,000 VND, depending on the train type and berth position.

From Hue to Da Nang, the average travel time is about 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours. Continuing further to Tam Ky (Quang Nam) takes an additional 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes. This allows you the flexibility to either stop in Da Nang for sightseeing or go directly to Quang Nam without changing transport.

Trains from Hue to Da Nang

Traveling from Hue to Da Nang by train is the most popular choice, as Da Nang Station is the closest railway stop to Hoi An. From here, you can easily reach Hoi An by taxi or bus in about 30 km (45 to 60 minutes). Below are the main train options operating daily on this route:

Once you arrive in Da Nang, Hoi An is about 30 kilometers away. The most convenient way to reach your destination is by private car or shuttle.

• Taxi/private car: About 45–60 minutes, fast and comfortable.
• Bus/shuttle: Several routes connect Da Nang to Hoi An, cheaper but more time-consuming.
• Motorbike rental: Ideal for travelers who enjoy the freedom of exploring the scenic coastal road between Da Nang and Hoi An.

Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness offers a dedicated transportation service, ensuring you are picked up directly at Da Nang Railway Station and brought safely and comfortably to the resort. Booking in advance guarantees a smooth transition without worrying about local transfers.

Trains from Hue to Tam Ky (Quang Nam)

If you prefer to travel further south, you can take a train from Hue to Tam Ky Station in Quang Nam. Although this option takes longer, it can be convenient if you plan to stay in southern Quang Nam.

Tam Ky Railway Station is about 50 kilometers from Hoi An. After arriving, you will need further transportation to reach your hotel.

• Taxi/private car: Around 1–1.5 hours, convenient and comfortable.
• Bus/local transport: Some local buses or coaches run from Tam Ky to Hoi An, but schedules are limited.
• Motorbike rental: Perfect for travelers who want to enjoy a countryside ride through rice fields and rural villages of Quang Nam.

To avoid delays and complex transfers, you can use convenient transportation service by Bliss Hoi An. With this service, your travel becomes easier and more enjoyable.

Read more: Hue to Hoi An Vietnam: Complete travel guide for a smooth journey

Highlights of the train journey: What to see?

This train ride is often considered one of the most scenic railway journeys in Vietnam. Along the way, the train passes through quiet fishing villages and peaceful lagoons, offering glimpses into the daily life of local people. The rhythm of the train combined with the stunning natural scenery creates a relaxing and memorable travel experience that many visitors describe as the highlight of their trip. 

Hai Van pass

The Hai Van Pass itself is the highlight of the trip. It is the natural boundary between Hue and Da Nang. From the train window, you can admire dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea, while mist often lingers on the mountaintops, creating a mysterious and breathtaking landscape. The train moves at a slow pace here, allowing travelers to fully enjoy every curve of the railway and capture unforgettable photos.

Read more: Complete guide to Hai Van pass – Coastal road in Vietnam

Lang Co bay

Beyond the Hai Van Pass, the train also travels past Lang Co Bay, a crescent-shaped coastline famous for its pristine waters and golden sands. From the train window, you can see small fishing boats dotting the bay and the mountains reflecting on the calm surface of the lagoon. On clear days, the scenery feels almost surreal, like a painting in motion.

Tam Giang Lagoon

As the train continues south, travelers catch sight of the peaceful Tam Giang Lagoon system, the largest in Southeast Asia. The view shifts from open sea to tranquil waters where fishermen cast their nets in the early morning light. This transition from rugged mountains to serene lagoons showcases the diversity of central Vietnam’s landscape within just a few hours of travel.

The route also takes you through short tunnels carved into mountainsides and over bridges that span narrow valleys. Each turn reveals a fresh perspective: a hidden cove, a stretch of wild jungle, or a cluster of stilt houses perched along the shore. These fleeting scenes often leave travelers glued to the windows, not wanting to miss a single moment.

By the time the train approaches Da Nang and continues towards Hoi An, passengers feel as though they have experienced a condensed journey through the very essence of central Vietnam – untamed nature, coastal charm, and authentic glimpses of everyday life. This makes the train ride not just a means of transportation, but a travel highlight in itself.

Tips for traveling from Hue to Hoi An by train

The journey is an exciting part of the trip, especially with the famous Hai Van Pass views. Here are some practical tips to make your ride more comfortable and enjoyable:

• Choose the right train and seat: For the best experience, choose a daytime train (like SE3, SE5, or SE7), so you don’t miss the Hai Van Pass scenery. If possible, pick a seat on the left side of the train (when heading south). This side faces the coastline, giving you uninterrupted sea views.
• Book tickets in advance: Trains, especially during weekends and holidays, can sell out quickly. Booking early online or at the station ensures you get your preferred seat class (soft seat or sleeper berth if you want extra comfort).
• Prevent motion sickness: The train ride has winding tracks along the mountains, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, take medicine (like Dramamine) about 30 minutes before departure. Sit facing forward and try to focus on the horizon or scenery outside instead of reading or looking at your phone for long periods. Bring along ginger candy, sour plums, or mint gum – local remedies that many Vietnamese travelers use.
• Pack light and smart: Keep essentials like water, tissues, snacks, and a light jacket in your daypack. The air conditioning can be strong, especially at night. Small local snacks (like rice cakes, fruit, or bánh mì bought at Hue station) make the journey feel even more authentic.

After a long and inspiring train journey, nothing feels better than unwinding in comfort. Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness offers the perfect retreat, where you can relax by the ocean, recharge at the spa, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere away from the bustling town. Book your stay through the hotline + 84 235 3874 888 early to ensure a seamless transition from the scenic train ride to a rejuvenating holiday in Hoi An.

Taking the train from Hue to Hoi An allows you to immerse yourself in Vietnam’s natural beauty while experiencing the charm of slow travel. From the dramatic Hai Van Pass to the tranquil countryside, every moment on the train brings you closer to the heart of Central Vietnam. With the right tips and preparation, your Hue to Hoi An by train journey will be both smooth and memorable, setting the tone for a perfect stay in Hoi An.