How to get from Hue to Hoi An: Train, bus or other options?
Hoi An and Hue are two most popular tourist destinations in the central region of Vietnam. Hue boasts a rich cultural heritage, especially through its historical monuments, such as the Hue Citadel and the mausoleums of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors. On the other hand, Hoi An attracts tourists by the quiet beauty of its Old Town with ancient houses covered by faded yellow walls and lightened by paper lanterns at night.
Are you planning a trip from Hue to Hoi An in 2025? Check out a local's complete guide to make the most of this magical route.
Written by Oliver PHUNG (Tour guide)
Updated on Jan 15, 2025
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Oliver Phung is a specialist in cultural tourism and trekking in the mountains of Northern Vietnam, with over 7 years of hands-on experience. Born and raised amidst the sounds of the kèn (a traditional instrument) and the songs of the Mông, Thái, Tay, and Dao ethnic communities, Oliver does not just have a passion for their history and culture, he lives it. For him, sharing the beauty of these traditions is not just a job, it's a way of life.
Drawing from his experience on hundreds of trekking trips and guided tours across routes from Ha Giang, Lao Cai to Cao Bang, Oliver offers an authentic and in-depth perspective.
The distance from Hue to Hoi An is about 140 km (87 miles). For most trips, the journey takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on your mode of transport and chosen route.
Traveling from Hue to Hoi An involves heading south, either passing through the major city of Da Nang or taking the scenic Hai Van Pass, one of the most beautiful mountains passes in Vietnam. The Hai Van Pass not only serves as the natural boundary between the provinces of Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang but also offers breathtaking views of glittering blue seas, lagoons, and stunning mountaintop scenery. Along the way, you can marvel at the wonders of Lang Co Beach and other remarkable natural landscapes.
Beautiful Beach Lang Co, Hue
Traveling by Train
Average travel time: 2 hours and 28 minutes to 3 hours and 15 minutes
Travel price: $4 to $9 per train ticket
When traveling from Hue to Hoi An by train, it is essential to note that Hoi An is not directly connected to the rest of the country by rail. Trains run only from Hue to Da Nang, where you will need to switch to another mode of transport to reach Hoi An.
The trains available for the Hue to Da Nang route include SE5, SE3, SE19, SE1, and SE. These trains offer the following seating and sleeping options:
Soft seats with air conditioning
Beds in 4-bed cabins with air conditioning
Beds in 6-bed cabins with air conditioning
For this short journey, soft seats with air conditioning are typically the most suitable choice.
The most beautiful train route in Vietnam is the one at the Hai Van Pass
And that’s not all! Starting in 2024, the Hue-Da Nang railway line is introducing a new tourist service called the "Connection to the Heritage of Central Vietnam" (or "Kết nối di sản miền Trung"). These trains, named HĐ1, HĐ2, HĐ3, and HĐ4, offer air-conditioned soft seats as the sole seating option. They also include a community cabin for showcasing local culture and culinary activities.
The trains usually make a stop at Lang Co Station, allowing travelers to enjoy a 10-minute break with stunning views of Lang Co Bay. This addition ensures that your journey from Hue to Hoi An via Da Nang becomes a memorable part of your exploration of central Vietnam.
The Connecting Train to Central Vietnam's Heritage
Hue Train Station: 2 Bui Thi Xuan St., Hue City
Da Nang Train Station: 791 Hai Phong St., Tam Thuan, Thanh Khe, Da Nang
You can reserve tickets through the official Vietnam Railway Corporation website: http://www.dsvn.vn, or via other service providers like 12go.asia.
Once you arrive in Da Nang, you can take a taxi, bus, or shuttle to Hoi An, as the distance between Da Nang and Hoi An is approximately 30 km.
Practical information: The advantage of traveling by train is that you will be able to enjoy spectacular views along the railway, including the famous Hai Van Pass. However, the downside is that you'll need extra time and another means of transportation to get from Da Nang to Hoi An.
Traveling from Hue to Hoi An by bus is also a convenient option, although it is usually not a popular choice among foreign tourists. Buses typically operate on fixed schedules. Some of the major transportation companies you might consider include Happy Travel, Hoàng Đức Limousine, Caro Luxury, and others.
There are several buses operating the route from Hue to Hoi An with fixed deadlines
The main advantage of traveling by bus is the lower cost, combined with the opportunity to enjoy the scenic route. However, the downside is that you will have to share space with other passengers, you cannot stop wherever you want, and your travel schedule will depend entirely on the bus company’s timetable.
One useful tip, especially for first-time travelers in Vietnam, is to ask your hotel for recommendations or contact details for bus companies. Most hotels can assist with such arrangements to help make your travel hassle-free. Always check the departure schedule in advance, as buses operate only at specific times, ensuring you don’t miss your trip.
Many limousine companies make this trip at a slightly higher price
Traveling by Taxi
Duration: approximately 3 hours
Price of the journey: $37 to $50
Taxi rides from Hue to Hoi An are probably the most expensive mode of transportation, but they also provide extreme comfort and convenience.
The other downside is that you will not be able to immerse yourself in that much local culture as when you travel by another mode of transport. If so, then calculate and research very well regarding costs and providers of the best taxi service for your preferred experience.
There is no shortage of taxi options in Hue, but the cost of taking a taxi from Hue to another province is quite high
▶️ If you book a tour with Kampá Tour, you won't have to worry about the complication of booking transportation, as the private vehicle is included in the package, making the transfer more convenient and flexible. This allows you to explore freely, without being tied to fixed schedules or itineraries.
Traveling by Motorcycle from Hue to Hoi An
Duration: around 3-4 hours
Price of the journey: $3 to $6 per day
Travelling by motorcycle from Hue to Hoi An is something of an excitement for the adventure people, but it can even be dangerous to some extent. This distance is about 140 kilometers, and usually takes approximately 3-4 hours, varying with the traffic as well as making stops on the journey.
This is freedom during travel because you can explore at an individual's own pace and stop for amazing views along the journey. However, it can be dangerous for anyone with no experience in motorcycle riding.
Iconic View at Hai Van Pass Attracts Adventure Lovers
To legally rent a motorcycle for tourists, they should have an International Driver's Permit. Renting a scooter could prove to be risky; if luck is in their favor, they may get a bike with a good condition and everything will be fine; but if not, then they may face mechanical problems that spoil the journey. It is also very essential to know how to ride properly in the Vietnamese traffic conditions and to understand the local road signs.
Driving on the right side is something that they have to remember, and for those who are accustomed to the opposite, it's quite a confusion.
Naturally, such travel is best enjoyed by those who have been to this country a few times or those who are looking for an extra excitement in the journey.
In any case, if you want to travel this way, check the bike before leaving and then think about taking a friend with you for safety's sake.
Lastly, don't just give your passport to anyone to rent a motorcycle.
The most convenient option for traveling from Hue to Hoi An is to rent a private car with a local driver. This allows you to stop and rest whenever you want, enjoying a comfortable and personalized experience.
At Kampá Tour, this service is included in your tour packages, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip without logistical complications. Check out a tour of Vietnam, with a visit from Hue: 💥 Discover the best of Vietnam in 15 days 💥
When is the best time to travel from Hue to Hoi An?
The best time to travel from Hue to Hoi An is between February and May, when the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for enjoying the beaches and exploring the beauty of both cities. During these months, conditions are perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
On the other hand, the rainy and storm season runs from October to mid-November, which can make travel plans difficult due to frequent and sometimes heavy rainfall. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your visit to Hue and Hoi An during the dry months to make the most of your experience.
Which means of transport will you use to travel to Hoi An from Hue? With our travel options including train, bus, private car, motorcycle, and some tips for all, it will surely give you the best trip ever.
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