How to Get to Hoi An Ancient Town: Transport Options, Costs, and Sustainable Tours in Da Nang City

Hoi An Ancient Town, now Minh An Ward in Da Nang City following the merger of Quang Nam Province, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, renowned for its 15th–19th-century trading port legacy. Located 28 km south of Da Nang’s city center, this charming town captivates over 4.5 million of Da Nang’s 8 million annual visitors with its lantern-lit streets, historic Japanese Covered Bridge, and vibrant culinary scene featuring cao lầu and bánh mì. As a cultural crossroads of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences, Hoi An offers a timeless experience. With no airport or train station in Hoi An, Da Nang International Airport (DAD) and Da Nang Railway Station serve as primary gateways, connected by sustainable transport options like electric taxis and bikes. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, offers eco-friendly tours to ensure a seamless journey to Hoi An, bookable via links throughout this guide. Plan your cultural adventure—reserve your tour now!

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Our Hoi An tours feature low-impact transport like electric shuttles, bicycles, and boats, guided by local experts who share the town’s rich history. We support Minh An’s artisans and align with Da Nang City’s “Green Heritage” initiative to preserve UNESCO sites. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a hassle-free trip. Travel to Hoi An sustainably with our curated tours—book via the links on this page!

Quang Nam Province has merged into Da Nang City, transforming Hoi An into Minh An Ward under Da Nang’s administration. This restructuring eliminates the district level, but Hoi An’s UNESCO status remains intact. Da Nang City enhances sustainable tourism with cycling infrastructure, electric buses, and a VND500 billion flood mitigation project (2023), ensuring reliable access to Hoi An, though November floods may affect low-lying areas.

Hoi An, located 28 km from Da Nang International Airport (DAD) and Da Nang Railway Station, lacks its own airport or train station, making Da Nang the primary gateway. Below are the main transport options from major cities and international hubs, with a focus on sustainable choices and updated costs for 2026–2028 planning.

By Airplane to Da Nang International Airport (DAD)

Da Nang International Airport (DAD), 28 km from Hoi An (45–60 minutes by road), is Vietnam’s third-largest airport, serving as the most convenient entry point for Hoi An.

From Hanoi (764 km, ~1.5 hours)

• Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, Vietravel Airlines.

• Cost: $35–$140 one-way (875,000–3,500,000 VND); round-trip from $70 (1,750,000 VND).

• Frequency: Multiple daily flights; book via Skyscanner or 12Go Asia for deals.

• Sustainable Tip: Vietnam Airlines offers carbon offset programs; pack light to reduce fuel use.

• Tip: Morning flights avoid delays; book 2–3 weeks ahead for savings.

From Ho Chi Minh City (610 km, ~1.5 hours)

• Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, Jetstar Pacific.

• Cost: $40–$160 one-way (1,000,000–4,000,000 VND); round-trip from $80 (2,000,000 VND).

• Frequency: Every 30 minutes; book via 12Go Asia or airline websites.

• Sustainable Tip: Choose airlines with newer, fuel-efficient fleets (e.g., Vietnam Airlines’ Airbus A321neo).

• Tip: Evening flights often cheaper; check Vietjet Air for budget fares.

From International Cities

• Direct Flights: Available from Seoul, Busan, Tokyo, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taipei, Manila, Siem Reap, and more. Airlines include Korean Air, Thai VietJet Air, AirAsia, and Starlux Airlines.

• Cost: $50–$300 one-way (1,250,000–7,500,000 VND), depending on origin and season.

• Tip: Book via Skyscanner for multi-city deals; visa-on-arrival available at DAD for select nationalities (use iVisa for e-visas).

From Da Nang Airport to Hoi An (28 km, 45–60 minutes)

• Shuttle Bus (Hoi An Express):

  • Cost: $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND) per person; book via Get Your Guide or 12Go Asia.

  • Details: Departs every 1–2 hours (7:00 AM–8:00 PM); air-conditioned vans with Wi-Fi; hotel drop-off (extra fee for non-central areas).

  • Sustainable: Shared shuttles reduce per-person emissions.

  • Tip: Pre-book for airport pick-up with name card; ideal for solo travelers.

• Public Bus (LK02):

  • Cost: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND); departs from Nguyen Tat Thanh Street (5 km from airport, $3 taxi).

  • Details: Every 15–20 minutes (6:00 AM–6:00 PM); 70–80 minutes to Hoi An Bus Station; 10-minute walk to Old Town.

  • Sustainable: Low-emission public transport; supports local economy.

  • Tip: Not ideal for heavy luggage; use DanaBus app for schedules.

• Taxi/Grab:

  • Cost: $12–$15 (300,000–375,000 VND); Xanh SM electric taxis $13–$16 (325,000–400,000 VND).

  • Details: 24/7 service; 40–50 minutes; book via Grab app or Xanh SM hotline (1900 2088).

  • Sustainable: Xanh SM’s electric fleet cuts CO2 by 30%; share rides for efficiency.

  • Tip: Confirm fare upfront; avoid peak hours (5:00–7:00 PM).

• Private Car (Ouros Travel or Hoi An Express):

  • Cost: $14–$26 per car (350,000–650,000 VND); book via 12Go Asia or Get Your Guide.

  • Details: 45 minutes; door-to-door service; ideal for families or groups.

  • Sustainable: Pre-booked transfers optimize routes, reducing fuel use.

  • Tip: Request child seats for families; book 24 hours in advance.

• Motorbike Rental:

  • Cost: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND); fuel $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

  • Details: 45–60 minutes; requires Vietnamese A1 license or International Driving Permit.

  • Sustainable: Use fuel-efficient models (e.g., Honda Wave).

  • Tip: Not recommended for inexperienced riders; wear helmets (mandatory, $200 fine).

Note: Chu Lai Airport (80 km, 2 hours) is less practical due to limited flights and longer transfers ($30–$50 by taxi); prioritize Da Nang for efficiency.

By Train to Da Nang Railway Station

Da Nang Railway Station, 28 km from Hoi An, is on Vietnam’s North-South Reunification Express line, offering a scenic, budget-friendly option from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or other cities.

From Hanoi (764 km, 14–20 hours)

• Cost: $20–$85 (500,000–2,125,000 VND) one-way; soft seats $20–$30, 4-berth sleepers $40–$60, VIP 2-berth $60–$85.

• Frequency: 4–6 daily trains (SE1, SE3, SE7); book via Vietnam Railways (dsvn.vn) or 12Go Asia.

• Sustainable: Trains emit 42.61 kg CO2 vs. 121.74 kg for flights per person; bring reusable containers for onboard meals.

• Tip: Book SE1/SE3 for faster travel; bring snacks as onboard food is limited.

From Ho Chi Minh City (610 km, 16–20 hours)

• Cost: $23–$70 (575,000–1,750,000 VND) one-way; soft seats $23–$35, 4-berth sleepers $40–$55, 2-berth $55–$70.

• Frequency: 4 daily trains (SE2, SE4, SE6, SE8); book via 12Go Asia or Baolau.

• Sustainable: Opt for sleepers to reduce daytime travel emissions; pack light.

• Tip: SE4 is fastest; reserve 2–4 weeks ahead for sleepers during Tet (January–February).

From Hue (100 km, 2.5–3 hours)

• Cost: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND) one-way; soft seats $5–$10, hard sleepers $10–$15.

• Frequency: 5 daily trains; book via Vietnam Railways or 12Go Asia.

• Sustainable: Short route minimizes emissions; combine with Hue’s Imperial City tour.

• Tip: Morning trains offer Hai Van Pass views; ideal for day trips.

From Da Nang Station to Hoi An (28 km, 45–60 minutes)

• Shuttle Bus: $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND); book via Hoi An Express or Get Your Guide.

• Public Bus (LK02): $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND) from Nguyen Tat Thanh; 70–80 minutes.

• Taxi/Grab: $12–$15 (300,000–375,000 VND); Xanh SM electric taxis $13–$16.

• Private Car: $14–$26 (350,000–650,000 VND); book via 12Go Asia.

• Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day; fuel $1–$2.

• Sustainable Tip: Use public buses or electric taxis to reduce emissions; book shared shuttles for groups.

• Tip: Taxis or shuttles are fastest; public buses require a short walk to Old Town.

By Bus to Hoi An

Long-distance buses from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Nha Trang terminate at Da Nang or Hoi An Bus Station, offering an affordable but time-consuming option.

From Hanoi (869 km, 15–18 hours)

• Cost: $16–$45 (400,000–1,125,000 VND) one-way; sleeper buses $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).

• Frequency: Multiple daily departures; operators include Futa Bus, Camel Travel, Queen Cafe.

• Details: Air-conditioned sleeper buses; book via 12Go Asia or Baolau.

• Sustainable: Shared buses reduce per-person emissions; bring reusable water bottles.

• Tip: Book overnight buses to save time; check for Wi-Fi and charging ports.

From Ho Chi Minh City (948 km, 18–22 hours)

• Cost: $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND) one-way; sleeper buses $25–$35 (625,000–875,000 VND).

• Frequency: Daily departures; operators include Hoang Long, Sinh Cafe.

• Details: 18–22 hours; stops for meals; book via 12Go Asia.

• Sustainable: Opt for high-capacity buses to lower emissions; pack light.

• Tip: Not ideal for tight schedules; choose trains for comfort.

From Nha Trang (500 km, 10–12 hours)

• Cost: $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND) one-way; sleeper buses $20–$25 (500,000–625,000 VND).

• Frequency: Daily; operators include Tan Kim Chi, HK BUSLINES.

• Details: Overnight buses; book via 12Go Asia.

• Sustainable: Night buses reduce daytime traffic impact; use reusable containers.

• Tip: Morning arrivals allow same-day Hoi An exploration.

From Hoi An Bus Station to Old Town (1 km, 5–10 minutes)

• Walk: Free; 10-minute walk via Tran Hung Dao Street.

• Cyclo: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND); 5-minute ride.

• Taxi/Grab: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND); Xanh SM electric taxis $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND).

• Sustainable Tip: Walk or use cyclos for zero-emission travel; support local drivers.

• Tip: Cyclos ideal for short, scenic rides; confirm fares upfront.

By Motorbike or Car (Self-Drive)

For adventurers, renting a motorbike or car offers flexibility to explore Hoi An and nearby sites like An Bang Beach or My Son Sanctuary.

• Motorbike Rental:

  • Cost: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND); fuel $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND).

  • Details: Available in Da Nang or Hoi An; requires Vietnamese A1 license or International Driving Permit.

  • Route: From Da Nang, take Vo Nguyen Giap to Cua Dai Bridge (45–60 minutes).

  • Sustainable: Use fuel-efficient models (e.g., Honda Wave); share rides.

  • Tip: Experienced riders only; helmets mandatory ($200 fine). Book via local shops or Klook.

• Car Rental:

  • Cost: $30–$60/day (750,000–1,500,000 VND); fuel $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Details: Rent from Da Nang Airport or Hoi An; requires valid license.

  • Sustainable: Choose hybrid or electric rentals (limited availability); carpool for efficiency.

  • Tip: Not ideal for Old Town’s pedestrian zones; park at designated lots ($0.25–$0.60 or 6,250–15,000 VND).

Note: Self-driving requires confidence in Vietnam’s traffic; guided tours are safer for most travelers.

Hoi An’s transport network supports sustainable tourism, aligning with Da Nang City’s eco-friendly goals:

• Eco-Friendly Transport: Xanh SM electric taxis and cyclos reduce CO2 emissions; public buses and shared shuttles lower per-person impact.

• Community Support: Tourism employs 200+ local drivers and guides; revenue funds heritage preservation via the Hoi An Center for Cultural Heritage Management.

• Infrastructure: Da Nang’s 2023 flood mitigation project (VND500 billion) ensures road access during November rains; 10% of public transport is electric-powered.

• 2026–2028 Trends: Plans include electric-assist cyclos, expanded bike-sharing (e.g., TNGO), and vegan dining options at tour stops to cater to Asian tourists (Chinese, Korean markets).

• Challenges: November floods may disrupt bus routes; cyclo availability drops during Tet. Pre-book transport during peak seasons.

Legend Travel Group’s tours integrate these practices, using eco-transfers and supporting local economies, ensuring a low-impact journey to Hoi An.

• Plan Ahead: Book flights, trains, or shuttles 2–4 weeks in advance via Skyscanner, 12Go Asia, or Legend Travel Group, especially for Tet (January–February) or Full Moon Lantern Festival (14th lunar day monthly). Pre-book taxis/shuttles for airport transfers.

• Pack Smart: Reusable water bottle, small VND for vendors, sunscreen ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND), rain gear for September–January, offline maps (e.g., Maps.me).

• Budget Wisely: Expect $20–$120/day in Hoi An (budget: $20–$50; mid-range: $50–$80; luxury: $80–$120). Transport $0.80–$160; Old Town ticket $6; dining $1–$5.

• Stay Safe: Secure valuables at bus stations; confirm taxi fares upfront; check for visa requirements (iVisa). Avoid motorbikes if inexperienced; monitor November flood risks via Vietnam News.

• Sustainability: Use public buses, electric taxis, or cyclos; support local operators like Hoi An Express; avoid plastic waste with reusable bags.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip drivers/guides ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); respect pedestrian zones.

• Navigation: Allow 1–2 hours for transfers from Da Nang; combine with An Bang Beach (4 km) or My Son Sanctuary (40 km) for a full itinerary. Old Town is pedestrianized (8:30 AM–11:00 AM, 3:00 PM–9:30 PM).

Our sustainable tours ensure a seamless journey to Hoi An’s Minh An Ward, tailored for eco-conscious travelers:

• Hoi An Heritage Arrival Tour ($55–$75/person): Airport transfer, Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, cao lầu tasting. Includes Old Town ticket ($6), eco-transfers, and lunch.

• Hoi An Night Glow Cyclo Tour ($55–$75/person): Full Moon Lantern Festival, cyclo ride, Thu Bon River boat ride, white rose dumplings. Includes eco-transfers and snacks.

• Hoi An & Tra Que Eco-Tour ($75–$95/person): Private shuttle from Da Nang, Tra Que Village, cooking class, Old Town cyclo ride. Includes eco-transfers, meals, and village entry.

• Hoi An & My Son Cultural Tour ($80–$120/person): My Son Sanctuary, Thanh Ha Pottery Village, Hoi An Old Town, private car transfer. Includes tickets ($6–$7.50), eco-transfers, and meals.

• Central Vietnam Explorer ($350–$550/person, 3–4 days): Hoi An, Da Nang, My Son, homestays ($15–$50/night), Cham Islands. Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, entrance fees, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via links around this page!

Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage gem in Da Nang City, is easily accessible via Da Nang International Airport or Da Nang Railway Station, just 28 km away. With flights from Ho Chi Minh City ($35–$80, 875,000–2,000,000 VND, 1.5 hours), trains ($20–$40, 500,000–1,000,000 VND, 16–18 hours), buses ($0.80–$5, 20,000–125,000 VND, 45 minutes), and eco-friendly Xanh SM taxis ($15–$25, 375,000–625,000 VND), diverse transport options suit every budget. Supported by Da Nang’s sustainable initiatives like electric taxis and flood mitigation, your journey is seamless and responsible. Legend Travel Group’s Hoi An Tours ensure an eco-conscious Hoi An Travel experience, supporting local communities with visits to Japanese Covered Bridge and Hoi An Night Market. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your cultural adventure today!
Ready to journey to Hoi An Ancient Town? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and explore Vietnam’s heritage sustainably!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Hoi An Accessibility Information: By Tony Bui at Legend Travel Group