Hue to Hoi An: How to Get There

Hoi An Guide | Transport and Driving Licenses

The journey from Hue to Hoi An is a well-worn route amongst travellers, as both cities are must-sees on any Vietnam itinerary. At a distance of around 130 km between the two, it’s a fabulous trip to make, and with the option to travel over the Hai Van Pass, full of gorgeous scenery. Find which transport option is best for you in our guide below.

How to Get from Hue to Hoi An

Hue to Hoi An Train

Time: 2.5 – 4 hours, plus 45 – 90 minute transfer to Hoi An

Est. Price: 120,000 VND (5 USD) depending on seat

Stop: Da Nang

Taking the train will offer stunning views of the coastline while being the most affordable option. The downside of taking the train is not going direct to Hoi An, but rather the nearby booming city of Da Nang. But if you have some time for a short stopover, you can make the most of it by visiting the beach or attractions in Da Nang.

The train will take you from Hue Railway Station (2 Bui Thi Xuan Street) to Da Nang Railway Station (791 Hải Phòng). You can purchase your ticket in person at the station or through a third party site such as 12go.asia, or baolau.com. There are over 7 trains that leave daily but we recommend to take an earlier train to maximize your time in Hoi An.

Once you arrive in Da Nang Railway Station, you can take a shuttle bus or public bus for the rest of your journey to Hoi An. The public bus stop is only a 5-minute walk from the station. This part of the journey takes around 1 – 1.5 hours.

Bus from Hue to Hoi An

Time: 4 – 5 hours

Est. Price: 250,000 VND (10 USD) depending on vehicle

Stop: Hoi An

Like the train, there are several buses leaving from Hue to Hoi An every day. Popular bus companies include The Sinh Tourist, Hanh Café or the Hoi An Express. To simplify your booking process, you can purchase your ticket through BookAway, a third party engine that scans the various bus companies and prices.

Taxi or Private Car

Time: 3 hours

Est. Price: 1.2 – 1.6 million VND (50 – 72 USD)

Stop: Hoi An

One of the most comfortable and private transport options from Hue to Hoi An is via taxi or a private car. This is especially ideal for families with children or bigger groups. With this option, you can tailor your trip more to your wishes and make some stops along the way.

Ask your driver to take the Hai Van Pass so you can have scenic, oceanic mountain views. Then you can stop, stretch your legs and take in the beauty of Vietnam. VM Travel Hoi An or 12go.asia are both great avenues to go through to book your private car, or see our private car with driver page for recommended independent drivers, car sizes and prices.

Solo Journey or Tour by Motorbike

Time: 7 – 8 hours

Est. Price: 350,000-1 million VND (15 – 45 USD)

Stop: Hoi An

For the more adventurous traveler, going from Hue to Hoi An by motorbike will be a highlight for years to come. Experiencing Vietnam by motorbike is a truly cultural and unforgettable experience, and if you don’t want to ride it solo, there are plenty of tours available. You’ll be driving the Hai Van Pass, also known as Đèo Hải Vân (Ocean Cloud Pass). You can personalize this route and enjoy one of the most breathtaking coastal passes you’ve ever seen. Just make sure you aim for a day with no rain! And don’t worry about your luggage, many bike-hire companies will transport it to Hoi An for you and have it waiting at your accommodation when you arrive.

There are several companies that you can rent a motorbike or book a tour through for this option.

Including hires from Hoi An and Danang, find our full guide to traveling the Hai Van Pass by Motorbike here

Note: We recommend driving yourself only if you have prior experience with a motorbike. If you don’t have much experience you can always hire an EasyRider to drive the bike for you. And be aware of the rules and regulations surrounding a Vietnam motorbike license before you travel.

Hue to Hoi An: Top Attractions and Highlights

What to Visit in Hue 

Vietnam’s national capital until 1945, Hue is a city steeped in history. Given its former royal importance, the area is full of ancient tombs, pagodas and museums, as well as being delightfully situated on a major river. Just a short walk from the main shopping streets will take you to riverside paths where the air is cooler and you can watch the world go by in a peaceful setting. Compared to many cities in Vietnam, Hue has a quieter, more laid-back feel and is a must-visit on any journey through Vietnam. Be sure to check out the following when you visit Hue:

  • Imperial City – one of Vietnam’s most important sites culturally and historically, having housed the emperor’s residences, temples and palaces.
  • Thien Mu Pagoda – a seven-story symbol of Hue overlooking the Perfume River (Song Huong).
  • Ho Thuy Tien Abandoned Water Park – closed in 2006, this mysterious, but eclectic waterpark is a glimpse into another time.
Floating-Life-Hue_photo by Hoang-Giang-Hai_Hue to Hoi An
Floating Life, Hue. Photo by Hoang Giang Hai

What to Visit in Hoi An

Hoi An’s position between countryside and coast make it a city to visit for all tastes. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old Town is a beautiful area to ramble by day or night, and the area is rich in spas, affordable tailoring and street food. There’s a host of tours and attractions to explore, from cycling and cultural trips, to watersports, photography and even theme parks. Check out our Hoi An Guide for an overview of the area and see these highlights for starters:

  • Hoi An Old Town – UNESCO protected, this area is bustling with colours, sounds, shopping and food.
  • An Bang Beach – a relaxing escape from Old Town, spend an afternoon sipping Vietnamese coffee by the water, then cool off from the daytime heat.
  • My Son Ruins – 40km outside of Hoi An, this attraction features ancient, partially-ruined Hindu Cham temples and towers that were built between the 4th and 14th centuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you pronounce Hue? 

Not pronounced like the word for a colour shade, because in this instance the is more silent. It is pronounced in a single syllable, more like hu-ey or way.

Where is Hue, Vietnam? 

Hue is the capital of Thua Thien-Hue province in Central Vietnam, on the bank of the Perfume River (Song Huong).

Why visit Hue, Vietnam?

Previously the capital city of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945 and boasting tombs, temples and imperial palaces, Hue’s history will immediately draw you in. You’ll also be in a foodie paradise with the delicious street food options, such as Bún bò Huế (Hue Beef Noodle Soup).

Contents Photo: Tu Duc’s Tomb, Hue. Photo by Gian-Reto Tarnutzer on Unsplash

Written By
Lydia Klemensowicz

Lydia is a passionate storyteller and writer, covering topics related to travel, personal growth and social impact.

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