Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most charming and well-preserved ancient towns. Known for its lantern-lit streets, historic architecture, and delicious food, this UNESCO-listed destination attracts travelers from all over the world. Whether you want to explore its centuries-old merchant houses, cycle through rice fields, or relax by An Bang Beach, Hoi An has something for everyone.

If you're planning a trip, you might be wondering: How to get to Hoi An from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City? Since Hoi An doesn’t have an airport or a train station, getting there requires some planning. In this guide, we’ll break down all the best ways to reach Hoi An from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, including flights, trains, buses, and private cars. We’ll also share travel tips to help you choose the most convenient and comfortable option.

How far is Hoi An from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City?

Hanoi to Hoi An Distance

Hoi An is about 800 km (500 miles) south of Hanoi. Depending on your mode of transport, the travel time varies:

• Flight + transfer: ~2 hours

• Train + transfer: 16–18 hours

• Bus: 17–20 hours

• Private car: 15–16 hours

Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An Distance

Hoi An is about 940 km (584 miles) north of Ho Chi Minh City. Travel times depend on the transport method:

• Flight + transfer: ~2.5 hours

• Train + transfer: 17–20 hours

• Bus: 20–24 hours

• Private car: 18–20 hours

Flying is again the quickest and easiest way to get to Hoi An from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, while the train is a good scenic option. The bus is the cheapest but least comfortable choice.

No matter which city you start from, your journey will end with a 30 km (45-minute) transfer from Da Nang to Hoi An. You can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or rent a motorbike for this short trip.

Now, let’s look at the best ways to travel from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An in more detail.

How to get to Hoi An from Hanoi?

By train

There is no direct train from Hanoi to Hoi An. Instead, you have to take a train to Da Nang and then travel to Hoi An. There are several daily trains operated by Vietnam Railways (Reunification Express). The main ones are SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7, which offer both sleeper and seat options. The most popular choice is the sleeper train because it allows you to rest during the long trip.

• Train duration: 15–18 hours

• Train price: $25–$80 (depending on the type of seat or sleeper)

Is the train worth it?

If you enjoy slow travel and want to see Vietnam’s landscapes, the train is a great experience. However, if you don’t like long journeys or prefer more comfort, a flight is a better choice.

How to Book Train Tickets

• Online: You can book tickets through the official Vietnam Railways website (dsvn.vn) or third-party sites like Baolau.com and 12go.asia. These websites let you see schedules, prices, and seat availability.

• At the Train Station: You can buy tickets in person at Hanoi Railway Station (120 Lê Duẩn, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi).

• Through Travel Agencies: If you’re traveling with an agency, tickets will be included in your tour package.

Getting from Da Nang to Hoi An

Once in Da Nang, you can take a taxi, private car, or bus to Hoi An. The ride takes about 45 minutes.

By car

Traveling by car is a flexible way to reach Hoi An, but it is a very long journey. We recommend spreading it out into 2-3 days. This way you can travel at your own pace and stop at places like Phong Nha, Hue, or Da Nang.

Options for Traveling by Car

• Self-Driving: Foreigners need a valid driver’s license.

• Private Car with Driver: A much better option. You can book a private transfer with a driver who will take you directly to Hoi An with stops along the way.
   

By bus

Several Hanoi to Hoi An buses run daily, but it’s a very long journey (17–20 hours).

• Sleeper buses: The cheapest option ($15–$30). Some buses are comfortable, but many are not.

• Limousine buses: More expensive but provide better seats and service.

• Direct or with a stop: Some buses go straight to Hoi An, while others stop in Da Nang.

Bus Companies to Opt For

• Duc Duong Bus

• HK Bus Lines

• Techbus VN JSC

How to Buy Bus Tickets

• Online: You can book through websites like Baolau.com, 12go.asia, or the official websites of bus companies.

• Bus Offices in Hanoi: Many bus companies have ticket offices in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

• Travel Agencies: Most travel agencies and hostels in Hanoi sell bus tickets.

Is the Hanoi to Hoi An Bus a Good Idea?

If you are on a tight budget, the bus is the cheapest option. However, it’s not the most comfortable for such a long trip. If you can afford a flight or train, those are much better choices.

By flight

The fastest way to get to Hoi An from Hanoi is to fly to Da Nang and then take a short transfer to Hoi An.

• Flight duration: 1 hour 20 minutes

• Hanoi to Hoi An flight time (including transfer): About 2.5 hours

• Price: $30–$100 (cheaper if booked in advance)

• Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, Bamboo Airways, 

How to Book Flights

• Online: Use airline websites or platforms like Skyscanner, Agoda, or Kayak to compare prices.

• Travel Agencies: Many local agencies in Hanoi can book flights for you.

Once in Da Nang, take a taxi (about $15–$25) or a shuttle bus ($5–$7) to Hoi An.

If you want to save time, flying is the best transportation from Hanoi to Hoi An. If you prefer a scenic journey, the train is a better choice.

By boat

There is no direct boat from Hanoi to Hoi An. However, you can travel to Hoi An from Hanoi by one of the options above, then take boat trips in Hoi An.

How to get to Hoi An from Ho Chi Minh City?

By train

There is no direct train from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An. You need to take a train to Da Nang, the nearest train station, and then continue to Hoi An by car, taxi, or bus.

Duration and Schedule

• The train journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang takes around 17–20 hours.

• Vietnam Railways runs multiple trains daily, including SE2, SE4, SE6, SE8. These trains offer both sleeper and seat options.

Ticket Options and Prices

• Hard Seat: ~$25 – Cheapest but uncomfortable for long journeys.

• Soft Seat: ~$30 – Slightly better but still not ideal.

• Hard Berth (6-person cabin): ~$35 – Budget-friendly but cramped.

• Soft Berth (4-person cabin): ~$45–$85 – The most comfortable choice.

The Ho Chi Minh to Hoi An sleeper train is a good option if you want to save on accommodation and experience scenic views along the way. However, if you prioritize comfort and time, flying is a better choice.

How to Buy Train Tickets

• Online: Book through the official Vietnam Railways website (dsvn.vn) or third-party platforms like Baolau.com and 12go.asia.

• Train Station: Buy tickets in person at Saigon Railway Station (1 Nguyen Thong, District 3, HCMC).

• Travel Agencies: Many agencies and hotels in HCMC can book train tickets for you.

Getting from Da Nang to Hoi An

After arriving in Da Nang, you need to cover the last 30 km to Hoi An. Here are your options:

• Taxi: $15–$25 (most convenient).

• Shuttle Bus: $5–$7 (cheaper but slower).

• Private Car: $20–$30 (good for groups).

• Motorbike Rental: $7–$10/day (best for adventurous travelers).
   

By flight

The fastest and most convenient way to get to Hoi An from Ho Chi Minh City is by flying to Da Nang and then taking a transfer to Hoi An.

Flight Details

• Ho Chi Minh to Hoi An flight time: 1 hour 20 minutes

• Total Travel Time (including transfer to Hoi An): ~2.5 hours

• Ticket Prices: $30–$100 (cheaper if booked in advance)

• Airlines: VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways, Vietnam Airlines

How to Book Flights

• Online: Use airline websites or platforms like Skyscanner, Agoda, or Kayak to compare prices.

• Travel Agencies: Many local agencies in HCMC can book flights for you.

Da Nang to Hoi An Transfer Options

• Taxi: $15–$25 (best for convenience).

• Shuttle Bus: $5–$7 (budget-friendly).

• Motorbike Rental: $7–$10/day (if you want to explore).

Flying is the best option if you want to save time and travel comfortably.

By bus

Taking a bus is one of the cheapest ways to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An, but it is also the longest (20–24 hours). Most buses are sleeper buses, allowing you to lie down during the journey.

How Much is the Bus Ticket from Ho Chi Minh to Hoi An?

• Standard Sleeper Bus: $25–$35

• Luxury Sleeper Bus: $40–$50 (more space and better comfort)

Bus Companies to Opt For

• VietNam Travel Bus

• Hoang Long Bus

• Hanh Café Bus

How to Buy Bus Tickets

• Online: Book through Baolau.com, 12go.asia, or directly on bus company websites.

• Travel Agencies: Many agencies and hostels in HCMC sell bus tickets.

Is the Bus a Good Idea?

The bus is a cheap option, but it is not the most comfortable for such a long journey. If you can afford it, flying is a much better choice.

By private car

Traveling by private car is the most flexible option, but it is also very expensive. The journey takes around 18–20 hours by road.

Why Choose a Private Car?

• You can stop at places like Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, and Da Nang.

• Ideal for families or groups who want privacy and comfort.

• No need to deal with train or bus schedules.

How to Book a Private Car

• Travel Agencies: Most travel agencies in HCMC can arrange private cars.

• Online Platforms: Websites like Klook, GetYourGuide, or Vietnam Locals Travel offer private car services.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to get to Hoi An from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, it’s time to start planning your trip! Whether you prefer a quick flight, a scenic train ride, or an affordable bus journey, there’s an option for every traveler. Once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful ancient streets, delicious local food, and a relaxing atmosphere.

If you need help arranging your transport, booking accommodations, or planning a full Hoi An tour, our travel agency is here to assist you. Contact us today to book your trip hassle-free and discover the magic of Hoi An!

>>> ​How many days should you stay in Hoi An?