Hue and Hoi An are two of the most fascinating destinations in central Vietnam. Hue, the former imperial capital, is rich in history with its ancient citadel, royal tombs, and peaceful Perfume River. Hoi An, a UNESCO-listed town, is famous for its yellow walls, picturesque streets adorned with lanterns, beautiful beaches, and a blend of cultures that make it unique.

If you are planning to travel between these two destinations, you have several options to choose from. Whether you prefer a scenic motorbike ride over Hai Van Pass, a comfortable private transfer, or a budget-friendly bus ride, each option offers a different experience. In this guide, we’ll explore how to travel from Hue to Hoi An, including the best routes, travel times, and what to see along the way.
 

How Long Does It Take To Get To Hoi An From Hue?

The distance from Hue to Hoi An is approximately 125 km (78 miles). The travel time ranges from 3-5 hours, depending on the mode of transportation and the route you take.

The journey between Hue and Hoi An is a scenic experience with several must-see stops along the way. If you choose a private car, motorbike, or guided tour, you can explore Lang Co Beach, Hai Van Pass, Linh Ung Pagoda, My Khe Beach, and the Marble Mountains before reaching Hoi An.

If you want a closer look at how to travel between Hoi An and Hue, with details on each transportation option, keep reading.

How To Travel From Hue To Hoi An

By Train

Many travelers wonder: Can you get the train from Hue to Hoi An? The short answer is no. There is no direct train from Hue to Hoi An because Hoi An does not have a railway station. However, you can still take a train part of the way.

How it works:

• Take a train from Hue Railway Station to Da Nang Railway Station (about 2.5 – 3 hours). There are about 5 trains per day from Hue to Danang.
• From Da Nang, take a taxi, shuttle, or motorbike to Hoi An (about 45 minutes).

How to book:

• You can book train tickets online through sites like Baolau or Vietnam Railways, or buy them directly at the station.
• Prices range from 100,000 to 200,000 VND ($4 – $8), depending on the type of seat.

Pros:

Scenic views: The train ride between Hue and Da Nang is one of the most beautiful in Vietnam, passing through the famous Hai Van Pass, with stunning ocean and mountain views.

Comfortable: Trains are spacious, and you can move around, unlike on buses or taxis.

Cons:

No direct route: You still need to arrange transport from Da Nang to Hoi An.

Limited schedule: Trains may not always match your preferred departure time.

By Taxi

Taking a Hue to Hoi An taxi is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel. You can book a taxi for a direct transfer between the two cities.

How to book:

• You can book a taxi through your hotel, travel agencies, or apps like Grab, Xanh SM, and Gojek (though availability may vary).
• Many companies also offer private car services, which work like a taxi but with fixed pricing and optional stops.

How much is a taxi from Hue to Hoi An?

• Prices range from 1,000,000 to 1,600,000 VND ($40 – $65), depending on the type of vehicle and stops along the way.
• A shared taxi might be cheaper but is less common.

Pros:

Fast and direct: Travel time is around 2.5 – 3 hours without stops.

Comfortable: You get privacy, air conditioning, and space for luggage.

Cons:

Expensive: More costly than trains or buses.

Traffic: If traveling during peak hours, expect some delays.

By Bus

Taking a bus from Hue to Hoi An is one of the most budget-friendly options and is popular among backpackers. Several companies operate daily bus services, offering both standard and sleeper buses.

How to book:

• You can book tickets online through 12Go Asia, Baolau, or directly from bus companies like The Sinh Tourist, Hanh Cafe, Hoi An Express, and Huetourist.
• Tickets are also available at bus stations, travel agencies, or hotels.

Price and Travel Time:

• The journey takes about 3.5 – 4 hours.
• Ticket prices range from 150,000 to 250,000 VND ($6 – $10).

Pros:

Affordable: Cheapest way to travel.

Direct: No need to transfer like when taking the train.

Comfortable options: Some buses have reclining seats or sleeper berths.

Cons:

Less flexible: Buses run on fixed schedules, so you have to plan ahead.

Possible delays: Buses may take longer due to multiple pick-up/drop-off points.

Less comfortable: Bus rides are usually less scenic and more crowded, and roads can be bumpy.

By Motorbike

For those looking for an adventure, traveling from Hue to Hoi An by motorbike is an exciting and scenic experience. This route includes the breathtaking Hai Van Pass, one of the most famous motorbike roads in Vietnam.

How to rent a motorbike:

• You can rent a motorbike through a company in Hue and return the bike at its other office in Hoi An (one-way rental).
• Companies like Motorvina and Style Motorbikes offer rentals.
• Prices start from 300,000 – 600,000 VND per day ($12 – $25), depending on the bike type.

Travel Time and Route:

• The ride takes around 5 – 6 hours, including stops at Lang Co Beach, Hai Van Pass, Da Nang, and Marble Mountains.
• A motorbike guide can be hired for around 800,000 – 1,200,000 VND ($32 – $50).

Pros:

Most scenic option: You get to experience Hai Van Pass, Lang Co Beach, and coastal views up close.

Flexible stops: Stop whenever you want for photos, food, or sightseeing.

Fun and adventurous: One of the best road trips in Vietnam.

Cons:

Not for beginners: Requires confidence in riding motorbikes.

Weather-dependent: Not ideal in heavy rain or extreme heat.

Luggage issues: You need to travel light or send big bags separately.

By Private Transfer

If you want comfort, flexibility, and sightseeing opportunities, then booking a Hue to Hoi An private transfer is a great option. This is similar to taking a taxi, but you pre-book a private driver for a fixed price and itinerary.

How to book:

You can book a private car through hotels, travel agencies, and local transport providers.

How to travel from Hue to Hoi An by car?

• The trip takes around 3 – 4 hours, depending on your stops.
• Prices range from 1,200,000 – 2,000,000 VND ($50 – $85), depending on car type and number of stops.

Pros:

Most comfortable option: Private car with air conditioning.

Flexible itinerary: You can stop wherever you want.

Ideal for groups: Great for families or friends traveling together.

Cons:

More expensive: Costs more than a bus or train.

Not as adventurous: Less exciting compared to motorbiking over Hai Van Pass.

Stops On The Way From Hue To Hoi An

Lang Co Beach

Distance:

From Hue: ~65 km (~1.5 hours by car)

From Hoi An: ~50 km (~1 hour by car)

Why Stop Here?

Lang Co Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, known for its pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and peaceful atmosphere. It is a great place to take a break from the journey, enjoy fresh seafood, or simply admire the coastal views. Lang Co is also part of the "World’s Most Beautiful Bays Club," making it a must-visit for nature lovers.

Things to See and Do in Lang Co Beach:

Relax on the beach: The soft sand and calm waters make it perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Enjoy fresh seafood: Lang Co is famous for grilled oysters, clams, and fresh fish served in local beachfront restaurants.

Visit Lap An Lagoon: A stunning brackish lagoon with mirror-like waters, great for photography.

Take in the views of Bach Ma National Park: The lush green mountains surrounding Lang Co add to its beauty.

Explore the fishing village: See how locals catch fish and learn about traditional fishing methods.

Best for:

• Nature lovers
• Beach lovers
• Seafood enthusiasts
• Photographers

Tips for Visiting:

• Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
• Bring cash for food and drinks, as many small restaurants do not accept credit cards.
• If you have more time, consider staying at a beach resort for a night to fully enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Hai Van Pass

Distance:

From Hue: ~80 km (~2 hours by car)

From Hoi An: ~40 km (~1.5 hours by car)

Why Stop Here?

Hai Van Pass is one of the most scenic mountain roads in Vietnam, offering breathtaking views of the coastline, mountains, and lush forests. This winding pass, known as the "Ocean Cloud Pass," sits at an altitude of 500 meters above sea level and separates the climates of Northern and Southern Vietnam. If you love adventure and stunning landscapes, this is a must-visit spot on your journey.

Things to See and Do in Hai Van Pass:

• Enjoy the panoramic views: Stop at one of the viewpoints to take in the stunning scenery of the sea, mountains, and Da Nang in the distance.
• Explore the Hai Van Gate: This ancient stone gate, built during the Nguyen Dynasty, marks the historical boundary between North and South Vietnam.
• Visit the French and American bunkers: These abandoned wartime structures provide a glimpse into the region’s military history.
• Ride a motorbike: Many travelers choose to ride a motorbike across the pass for the full experience. If you do, be cautious of the sharp curves and unpredictable weather.

Best for:

• Adventure seekers
• Photographers
• History lovers

Tips for Visiting:

• If you're traveling by private transfer or motorbike, ask the driver to stop at key viewpoints.
• The pass can be misty, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, so check the weather before going.
• The road is steep and winding, so drive carefully if you're on a motorbike.

Linh Ung Pagoda

Distance:

From Hue: ~90 km (~2.5 hours by car)

From Hoi An: ~30 km (~45 minutes by car)

Why Stop Here?

Linh Ung Pagoda is a beautiful Buddhist temple located on the Son Tra Peninsula, just outside Da Nang. It is famous for its 67-meter-tall Lady Buddha statue, which overlooks the ocean and protects the city from natural disasters. This is one of the most peaceful and spiritual stops on the way from Hue to Hoi An.

Things to See and Do in Linh Ung Pagoda:

• Admire the Lady Buddha statue: This towering statue is the tallest in Vietnam and offers stunning views of Da Nang’s coastline.
• Explore the temple grounds: The pagoda has beautiful architecture, intricate statues, and a serene atmosphere.
• Enjoy the view of Da Nang Bay: On a clear day, you can see the entire city, My Khe Beach, and the Cham Islands in the distance.
• Observe the monks and local worshippers: This is an active place of worship, so take time to appreciate the spiritual significance of the site.

Best for:

• Spiritual travelers 
• Culture enthusiasts
• Scenic view lovers

Tips for Visiting:

• Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) as it is a religious site.
• Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and heat.
• Bring a camera, as the location offers some of the best panoramic views in central Vietnam.

My Khe Beach

Distance:

From Hue: ~95 km (~2.5 hours by car)

From Hoi An: ~25 km (~30 minutes by car)

Why Stop Here?

My Khe Beach may not be as pristine as Lang Co but it’s still one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, known for its soft white sand, gentle waves, and crystal-clear waters. It stretches for about 10 km along the coastline of Da Nang and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Forbes even named it one of the most attractive beaches in the world.

Things to See and Do at My Khe Beach:

• Relax on the beach: Enjoy the soft sand and warm waters, perfect for a quick swim or sunbathing.
• Try water sports: Activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and surfing are available at different points along the beach.
• Enjoy fresh seafood: Several beachfront restaurants offer delicious seafood, especially grilled squid and shrimp.
• Watch the sunset: The beach faces west, making it a great spot to catch a beautiful sunset over the ocean.

Best for:

• Beach lovers
• Families
• Water sports enthusiasts

Tips for Visiting:

• Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be strong.

Marble Mountains

Distance:

From Hue: ~100 km (~2.5–3 hours by car)

From Hoi An: ~20 km (~25 minutes by car)

Why Stop Here?

The Marble Mountains are a cluster of five limestone and marble hills, each representing one of the five elements: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. The mountains are home to ancient caves, Buddhist temples, and incredible viewpoints. This is one of the most fascinating natural and cultural stops between Hue and Hoi An.

Things to See and Do in Marble Mountains:

• Explore the caves: The mountains have several caves, such as Huyen Khong Cave, which is used as a Buddhist temple, and Am Phu Cave, which has eerie carvings representing Buddhist hell.
• Climb to the viewpoint: The summit of Thuy Son (Water Mountain) offers breathtaking views of Da Nang and the coastline.
• Discover its temples: The complex is made up of numerous caves, temples, and shrines, each with beautiful architecture.
• See stone sculptures: At the base of the mountains, you’ll find stone-carving villages where local artisans create stunning marble statues.

Best for:

• Culture and history enthusiasts
• Adventure seekers
• Photography lovers

Tips for Visiting:

• Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll need to climb stairs.
• Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
• Some caves are dark, so bring a small flashlight if needed.
• Entrance fee: Around 40,000 VND ($1.50 USD) for Marble Mountains, plus an additional 15,000 VND ($0.65 USD) for the elevator.

Final Words

Now that you know how to travel from Hue to Hoi An, you can choose the option that best fits your budget and travel style. If you want a hassle-free and memorable journey, booking a private transfer or guided tour is a great choice. Not only will you enjoy a smooth ride, but you’ll also have the chance to explore stunning places like Lang Co Beach, Hai Van Pass, Linh Ung Pagoda, and the Marble Mountains along the way.

For the best experience, let us help you plan your trip. Book a tour with us and make your journey from Hue to Hoi An unforgettable!

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