Travel Hue to Hoi An by Train, Bus, Taxi, Car or Motorbike (2025 Guide)

The distance between Hoi An and Hue is around 140 kilometres, and the travel duration depends on which type of vehicles you choose to go with. Particularly, Traveling by car is considered to be the quickest option which takes only 2,5 hours. If you are not in a rush, you can go by train, bus, or even motorbike if you are into some adventures (4 hours) . Depending on your chosen mode of transportation, the average travel time between the two cities varies from 3 to 4 hours. It is even possible to make a day trip from Hue to Hoi An city tour and back

The desire to come to Hoi An has raised concern in most of the travelers that how to get there. I hope this article will help you a lot in finding the suitable way to get to Hoi An from Hue.

=> How to travel from Da Nang to Hoi An?


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📏 Distance Hue to Hoi An and Vice Versa

Hue and Hoi An are around 125 km apart, and the journey typically takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on your choice of transport.

The distance between Hue and Hoi An is approximately:

  • 125 km via Hai Van Tunnel (faster route)

  • 130 km via Hai Van Pass (scenic coastal road)

⏱️ Travel Time Estimates:

  • 🚗 Private car/taxi: ~2.5 to 3 hours

  • 🚌 Bus: ~3.5 hours

  • 🚉 Train (to Da Nang) + taxi to Hoi An: ~3.5–4 hours

  • 🏍️ Motorbike: ~4–5 hours (depending on stops and route)

Which Route Should You Choose?

  • Hai Van Tunnel: quicker, less traffic – ideal if you’re in a hurry

  • Hai Van Pass: incredibly scenic, great for photography and sightseeing
    👉 Perfect if you’re booking a private car or motorbike ride

📸 Tip: Don’t miss a stop at Lap An Lagoon or Lang Co Beach along the way if you choose the coastal route!


🌟 Best Ways to Travel from Hue to Hoi An

Looking for the best way to travel from Hue to Hoi An? Here’s a quick overview of the most recommended options based on your budget, time, and comfort:

🚖 Hue to Hoi An by Taxi, Grab – The Fastest Way

If you’re short on time or just want a quick and direct transfer, taking a taxi or Grab from Hue to Hoi An is the fastest way to travel.

⏱️ Duration:

  • Around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and route (Hai Van Tunnel or Pass)

💰 Estimated Fare:

  • Taxi: ~1,600,000đ – 1,700,000đ

  • GrabCar (if available): Similar price, but depends on time of day and availability

✔️ Pros:

  • Direct point-to-point transfer (no stops, no transfers)

  • Available anytime, especially with local taxi companies

  • Ideal for families, business travelers, or those arriving late

❗ Tips Before Booking:

  • Confirm the fixed fare in advance to avoid meter surprises

  • Use reputable taxi services or check driver ratings if using Grab

  • Grab may not always be available in Hue, so book early or consider a private car for reliability

👉 For a guaranteed, worry-free transfer, you might prefer a private car with a professional driver from Danang Transfer, offering transparent pricing and optional scenic routes!

🚖 How to Book the Taxi/Grab from Hue to Hoi An?

Booking a taxi or Grab from Hue to Hoi An is straightforward, but it’s important to choose the right method to avoid scams and overcharges.

📱 Using the Grab App – Safe, Convenient & Cashless

Grab is Southeast Asia’s answer to Uber – and it works in Hue.

To use it, you’ll need:

  • A Vietnamese SIM card or an eSIM for mobile data

  • The Grab app (download before your trip)

  • A phone number to register (your usual number works)

Pros of Grab:

  • Upfront pricing

  • Safer than random street taxis

  • Cheaper than most hotel-arranged taxis

📍Note: Grab drivers may not always be available for long-distance trips like Hue ➡️ Hoi An. If so, consider booking a private car with a driver for more certainty and flexibility.

🚕 Booking a Taxi in Hue – What You Need to Know

Finding a taxi in Hue is easy – you can:

  • Ask your hotel reception to arrange a cab (and negotiate a fixed price)

  • Hail one on the street by waving your hand

  • Find a taxi stand at Hue Train Station, bus stations, or malls

🛑 Caution:

Avoid random taxis without company logos or meters. Scams are common, especially at tourist spots and stations. Some drivers may:

  • Take longer routes

  • Inflate the price

  • Refuse to use the meter

☎️ Trusted Taxi Companies in Hue (Call to Book)

🚕 Taxi Company 📞 Hotline
Taxi Mai Linh 0234.3.89.89.89 – 0234.3.82.47.47
Taxi Thanh Cong 0234.3.57.57.57 – 0234.6.57.57.57
Taxi Vàng 0234.3.79.79.79
Taxi Hoàng Sa 0234.3.75.75.75

If you want to skip negotiation, ensure your luggage is safe, and make sightseeing stops along the way (e.g., Hai Van Pass, Lap An Lagoon), then a private car with driver is the best option.

👉 Click here to book a private transfer from Hue to Hoi An – safe, English-speaking driver, transparent pricing.


🏍️ Hue to Hoi An by Private Motorbike

🛵 Travel Time: ~3 hours

💸 Cost: 250,000đ – 350,000đ (one-way rental)

There’s no denying it: riding a motorbike from Hue to Hoi An is one of the most scenic and memorable road trips in Vietnam.

The route takes you through some truly breathtaking landscapes:

  • On the Hue side, you’ll pass by Lang Co Beach, peaceful lagoons, and rice paddies stretched to the horizon.

  • As you descend the Hai Van Pass into Da Nang, the coastline reveals its beauty – long beaches, blue ocean, and iconic round bamboo boats bobbing in the waves.

🛠️ How to Rent a Motorbike from Hue to Hoi An?

Most travel shops in Hue offer one-way motorbike rentals. Here’s how it works:

  1. Pick up in Hue
    Usually from your hotel or rental office (passport may be required)

  2. Ride to Hoi An
    Take National Route 1 or Hai Van Pass for the scenic experience

  3. Drop off in Hoi An
    Return the bike at a partnered office in Hoi An


🔥 Tips for Riding Hue ➡️ Hoi An

  • ✔️ Choose the Hai Van Pass route for amazing ocean views

  • ✔️ Make time to stop at Lap An Lagoon, Lang Co Beach, and Marble Mountains

  • ✔️ Wear a good helmet and bring a raincoat (weather changes fast)

  • ✔️ Use Google Maps offline and fuel up before the pass

⚠️ Important: Riding across provinces requires confidence, good weather, and valid documents (passport + license). If you’re not 100% sure, consider a private car with driver for safety and comfort.

Some motorbike rental shop: 

NAME PHONE NUMBER ADDRESS
KENVIN MOTORBIKE (+84)0705059964
https://thuexemayhuegiare.com/
38/42 Nguyễn Công Trứ, tp Huế
HIDIBIKE  (+84)  0945418111 
https://hidibike.com
24A kiệt 11 đường Lý Thường kiệt Huế
Đồng Xanh Motobike (+84)0787528677
https://dongxanhmotorbikes.com/
201 Trần Phú, Trường An, Thành phố Huế, Thừa Thiên Huế
HUE MOTORBIKE RENTAL (+84)0935 3737 35 29c Chu Văn An , TP Huế
Camay MotorBike  (+84)0949596776
https://camaymotorbike.com/
Lô N048 kiệt 138 Phạm Thị Liên, TP Huế.

🚌 Hue to Hoi An by Shuttle Bus – The Cheapest Way

⏱️ Travel Time: ~4 hours

💰 Cost: 80,000đ – 250,000đ

If you’re traveling on a budget, then taking a shuttle bus from Hue to Hoi An is the cheapest way to get there. Although it’s slower than other options, it offers decent comfort and an affordable experience for backpackers, solo travelers, and students.


🧾 How to Book Shuttle Bus Tickets?

You can book by calling the bus companies directly, using the contact details below:

🚌 Bus Name 🕓 Departure Schedule 💸 Price (VND) 📞 Hotline
Đồng Hành Travel Hue: 8:00 & 10:45 → Hội An: 16:00 & 18:45 280,000đ 1900 272 708
Hạnh Cafe Hue: 13:00 → Hội An: 18:00 100,000đ 0964 202 094
Saran Hue: 14:30 → Hội An: 18:00 150,000đ 0978 914 895
Hoàng Đức Limousine Hue: 17:30 → Hội An: 05:00 – 19:00 240,000đ 0835 424 343
TheSinhTourist Hue: 13:15 → Hội An: 17:15 100,000đ – 150,000đ 0234 384 8626
Happy Travel Hue: 7:30 → Hội An: 10:30 150,000đ – 180,000đ 0911 118 883

🌟 Advantages of Shuttle Bus

  • Lowest price among all transport options

  • Frequent schedules from morning to evening (7:00 – 16:00)

  • A great way to meet locals and other travelers

  • Good for solo trips or casual travel days


⚠️ Disadvantages of Shuttle Bus

  • You need to be at the pickup point on time – no door-to-door service

  • Overbooking may occur during peak seasons

  • Limited English communication with drivers/sales staff

  • Longer travel time (~4 hours), especially with multiple pick-ups/drop-offs

  • Luggage risks – your bags are stored separately, so watch your valuables


📝 Tips When Taking the Shuttle Bus

  1. Book in advance (at least 1 day) to secure your seat

  2. Keep important documents (passport, ID, wallet) in your handbag

  3. Wear comfortable clothes – the journey can be long

  4. Take note of the bus stop locations in Hue and Hoi An to avoid confusion

  5. Be patient – shuttle buses may take time to load passengers or make multiple stops

💡 Alternative: If you want a smoother, more flexible ride without delays, consider booking a private car with driver. The cost is higher, but the comfort and convenience are worth it!


🚆 Hue to Hoi An by Train – The Traditional Way

⏱️ Travel Time: ~3 hours by train + 45 mins transfer

💰 Total Cost: 75,000đ – 120,000đ (train) + 25,000đ – 300,000đ (transfer to Hoi An)

Although there is no direct train from Hue to Hoi An, this is still a popular and scenic route—especially for those who love slow travel.


🛤️ How to Travel Hue → Da Nang by Train?

The route from Hue to Da Nang is considered one of the most beautiful railway lines in the world, as ranked by Daily Mail (2020). As the train winds through the mountains and along the coast, you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping views of Hai Van Pass, Lang Co Lagoon, and endless greenery.

  • 🚉 Departure station: Hue Railway Station – Nguyễn Tri Phương St.

  • 🚉 Arrival station: Da Nang Railway Station – 791 Hải Phòng, Da Nang

  • ⏱️ Duration: ~2.5 to 3 hours

  • 🚂 Number of departures: ~7–10 trains/day

  • 💺 Ticket Price: ~75,000đ – 180,000đ depending on seat type (hard seat, soft seat, sleeper, etc.)

🎟️ How to Book Train Tickets:

  • Official sites: DSVN.vn, Vietnamrailway, VR

  • Booking platform: Baolau.com – easy for foreigners (supports international cards)

📝 Tip: Book 1–2 days in advance is fine, unless it’s a Vietnamese holiday. For sleeping berths, book at least 1 week ahead.


🚗 From Da Nang to Hoi An – Transfer Options

After arriving in Da Nang by train, you need to travel the final ~30–35 km to Hoi An. Here’s how:

1. Private Car – Recommended

2. Taxi / Grab

  • Convenient but often more expensive (350,000đ – 500,000đ)

  • Might need to wait or negotiate fare

3. Shuttle Bus / Local Bus

  • Cheapest (~25,000đ – 60,000đ) but time-consuming and less convenient

  • Limited space for luggage


🔍 Why Choose the Train Option?

  • Scenic route – great for photographers and nature lovers

  • Affordable for backpackers and budget travelers

  • Unique experience of Vietnam’s railway

However, if you’re tight on time or traveling with family, a direct private car from Hue to Hoi An might be more convenient overall.


🚗 Hue to Hoi An by Private Car – Nice Car & Professional Driver‎

If local buses, shuttle services, or Grab don’t meet your travel expectations, then hiring a private car is the perfect alternative. It may not be the cheapest option, but it offers comfort, flexibility, and privacy — ideal for couples, families, business travelers, or small groups of friends.


🛣️ Why Choose a Private Car from Hue to Hoi An?

  • No waiting, no transfers — just direct door-to-door convenience

  • Flexible departure time — travel when you want

  • Spacious and air-conditioned vehicle

  • English-speaking drivers in most cases

  • Stop along the way at Hai Van Pass, Lang Co Beach, Lap An Lagoon, Marble Mountains (optional)

  • ✅ Great for those who want to relax, nap, work, or simply enjoy the views without stress

This service is especially suitable for:

  • Families with kids who need flexibility

  • 👩‍💼 Business travelers who need quiet time for work

  • 🧳 Travelers with a lot of luggage

  • 🚙 Groups who want to share a ride and cost


📞 Where to Book a Private Car?

Many travel companies and individual drivers offer this route, but for reliable service and competitive prices, consider:

These companies typically provide:

  • Clean and comfortable cars

  • Polite, helpful, and experienced drivers

  • Option for one-way or round trip


💰 Hue to Hoi An Private Car Price

🚘 Car Type 👥 Capacity 💸 Price (VND) 💬 Notes
4-Seater 1–3 pax 1,380,000 – 1,500,000 Ideal for solo/couple
7-Seater 4–5 pax 1,500,000 – 1,600,000 Good for small families or groups
16-Seater 6–10 pax 1,600,000 – 1,700,000 Comfortable for big groups

✔️ Includes: tolls, fuel, parking fee, driver fee
🔁 Round-trip discount available upon request

🛣️ Want to go through Hai Van Pass?
Let the driver know! Most private cars will use Hai Van Tunnel (faster), but the pass route is more scenic and only adds ~20–30 mins.

✨ Final Thoughts : A private car from Hue to Hoi An is a great investment in comfort and experience. While other options may save you a few bucks, a private car gives you control over your journey and allows you to enjoy every moment along the way — without the stress.

🎯 👉 Book your private transfer with Danang Transfer here

 


🚦 How to Choose Suitable Transportation from Hue to Hoi An?

There are many ways to travel from Hue to Hoi An, but how do you choose the right one? The answer depends on your budget, who you’re traveling with, and how much luggage you bring.

💸 What Is Your Budget?

Your budget is the foundation of your trip. If you are:

  • On a tight budget: Choose shuttle buses (from 80,000đ) or train + transfer combinations

  • Flexible with cost: Private cars (from 1,400,000đ) offer the most comfortable and flexible option

  • Luxury traveler: You can go for high-end private transfer services with custom routes and stops

💡 Tip: If you want to save on transport and spend more on food, tours, or accommodation, go for the shuttle or train.


👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who Are You Traveling With?

Your group matters:

  • Adventurous solo traveler or friends? → Try a motorbike or train + local ride

  • Family with children or elderly? → Stick with private cars or train for safety and comfort

  • Big group (5–10+ people)? → Shuttle buses or 16-seater private cars are more economical

  • Different needs in a group? → Discuss and find a common ground. Safety, cost, and comfort should be weighed together

🎯 Rule of thumb: the bigger the group, the more cost-effective a private car or shuttle becomes.


🎒 How Much Luggage Do You Carry?

  • Light backpack? Almost all transport options are fine

  • Medium to large suitcases? Avoid motorbike!

  • Heavy luggage or fragile gear? Go for private car or train, both offer better handling space and comfort

📦 Train allows up to 20kg of luggage per person — perfect if you’re carrying extra.


📊 Summary: Compare All Transport Options from Hue to Hoi An

🚘 Vehicle Type ⏱️ Duration 💰 Price (VND) Advantages ⚠️ Disadvantages
Taxi / Grab ~2.5 hours 1,500,000–1,800,000 Fastest, private, easy to find High cost, price negotiation required
Private Car ~2.5 hours 1,400,000–1,600,000 Comfortable, scenic stops, English-speaking drivers Slightly higher cost than bus/train
Motorbike ~3–4 hours 250,000–350,000 Fun, flexible, scenic route over Hai Van Pass Dangerous for kids and rainy days
Shuttle Bus ~4 hours 80,000–200,000 Cheap, frequent departures Less flexible, long travel time, possible overcrowding
Train + Transfer ~4 hours 75,000–120,000 + ~300,000 Scenic, safe, cheap combo route Requires transfer, longer trip duration

🏞️ 4 Beautiful Landscapes You Shouldn’t Miss When Traveling from Hue to Hoi An

Central Vietnam isn’t just famous for its rich culture and cuisine—it’s also home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. Whether you’re taking the scenic Hai Van Pass by motorbike or cruising comfortably in a private car, don’t miss these four must-see spots along the way from Hue to Hoi An:


🌊 1. Lang Co Bay – Peaceful Coastal Charm

📍 Location: Phu Loc District, ~65 km south of Hue

Lang Co is a serene fishing village hugged by mountains and sea, offering a refreshing escape from the city heat. While it’s not packed with tourist attractions, its natural beauty speaks for itself.

  • 🏖️ Lang Co Beach: A quiet white sand beach, ideal for swimming and chilling.

  • 🐚 Lap An Lagoon: An emerald-green lagoon used for oyster farming, with Bach Ma mountain as its backdrop.

📸 Best Time to Visit: Sunset, when the lagoon reflects the sky in mirror-like perfection.

🐚 3. Lap An Lagoon – Tranquil & Photogenic

Though technically part of Lang Co, Lap An Lagoon deserves its own spotlight. This quiet lagoon is an Instagrammer’s dream:

  • 🌅 Sunset here is unforgettable

  • 🦪 Watch locals harvest oysters and experience rural Vietnamese life

  • ⛰️ Mountains on one side, ocean on the other – the contrast is stunning

📝 Don’t forget to try grilled oysters at one of the floating restaurants nearby!

🏔️ 3. Hai Van Pass – The Legendary Coastal Road

📍 Location: Between Hue and Da Nang, part of the Annamite Range

The Hai Van Pass (meaning “Ocean Cloud Pass”) is one of the most famous scenic drives in Vietnam—and for good reason. The winding mountain road hugs the cliffs and offers breathtaking views of the coastline below.

  • 🚗 Ideal for motorbike adventurers or private car travelers

  • 🌤️ Best Viewpoints: The summit offers panoramic views of Da Nang Bay and the South China Sea

📸 Tip: Stop for coffee at the top viewpoint and soak in the views of both Hue and Da Nang provinces.

🪨 4. Marble Mountains – Spiritual Peaks in the Heart of Da Nang

📍 Location: Da Nang City

Before reaching Hoi An, make a final stop at the Marble Mountains – a group of five limestone and marble hills named after the five elements (Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, Earth).

  • 🕍 Explore hidden pagodas, caves, and shrines

  • ⛩️ Climb up for panoramic views of Da Nang and My Khe Beach

  • 🧘‍♂️ A peaceful yet dramatic contrast to the bustling city below

📸 Pro tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the golden light.

🚗 How to See All These Spots?

The best way to enjoy all four landscapes in one seamless journey is by booking a private car from Hue to Hoi An. You can stop at each place on your own schedule without rushing, and a friendly local driver will guide you along the way.

👉 Book a private transfer from Hue to Hoi An with stops – safe, scenic, and fully customizable


❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Travel from Hue to Hoi An

🔹 How to get from Hue to Hoi An?

There are several ways to travel from Hue to Hoi An:

  • 🚗 Private car

  • 🚖 Taxi / Grab

  • 🚌 Shuttle bus

  • 🚆 Train + transfer

  • 🏍️ Motorbike

Each option has its pros and cons. If you prefer comfort and flexibility, a private car is ideal. For budget travelers, the shuttle bus or train is more economical.


🔹 What is the fastest way to get from Hue to Hoi An?

The fastest and most convenient way is by private car, which takes around 2.5 hours and costs $50 – $75 USD.

✈️ If you’re arriving at the Hue train station or airport, it can be difficult to find buses or safe taxis, so pre-booking a private transfer or GrabCar is highly recommended.

👉 Book your transfer here with Danang Transfer


🔹 What is the most cost-effective way to travel from Hue to Hoi An?

The cheapest option is by shuttle bus, costing only $5 – $10 USD (approx. 80,000đ – 250,000đ).
However, this takes about 3.5 – 4 hours, and you may need to transfer at fixed pickup points.


🔹 Is there a train from Hue to Hoi An?

No, there is no direct train to Hoi An.
But you can:

  1. Take a train from Hue to Da Nang (2.5–3 hours)

  2. Then transfer to Hoi An by car, Grab, or bus

This train route is scenic and known as one of the most beautiful railways in the world. You’ll pass through the Hai Van Pass, Lang Co, and Bach Ma Mountain region.

🚉 Train Code Examples: SE2, SE4, SE6, SE8 – Reunification Express
🎟️ Tickets: 75,000đ – 180,000đ
📍Book via: Baolau.com, DSVN.vn


🔹 Should I tip my taxi or private car driver?

Tipping is not required in Vietnam, but it’s greatly appreciated—especially by taxi and private car drivers.

💵 Suggested tip:

  • Taxi / Private car: 50,000 – 100,000 VND if you’re happy with the service

  • Grab: Not required, but rounding up to the nearest 10K is a kind gesture

  • Bus/Shuttle: Tipping is not expected


🧭 Local Tips to Get from Hue to Hoi An

Traveling between Hue and Hoi An can be a highlight of your Central Vietnam adventure. But to make the most out of it, here are some local travel tips to keep you safe and comfortable on the road:


🚆 If You’re Taking the Train

  • Choose a seat on the right side of the train (heading south) to enjoy the best coastal views through the Hai Van Pass. The stretch between Hue and Da Nang offers some of the most picturesque railway scenery in Southeast Asia.


🏍️ If You’re Renting a Motorbike

  • Always inspect the motorbike carefully before leaving:
    ✔️ Check the brakes, lights, horn, and tire pressure
    ✔️ Test ride around the block if possible

  • Most shops will ask for your original passport as a deposit.
    👉 Try to negotiate to leave a copy instead, or a cash deposit if available.

  • Always wear a helmet, follow local traffic laws, and do not exceed the speed limit—especially through winding mountain roads.


🌦️ Check the Weather Before You Go

  • The Hai Van Pass and the coastal road can be slippery and dangerous in the rain. If you’re not experienced in riding motorbikes, avoid traveling during or after a downpour.

  • Also note that fog can cover parts of the pass in early mornings or late afternoons, reducing visibility.


✅ Final Advice

Above is your detailed transportation guide for traveling from Hue to Hoi An. Whether you’re going by train, shuttle, motorbike, or private car – planning ahead and following these local tips will help you travel smart and stay safe.

🎯 Want to avoid the hassle?
👉 Visit Danang Transfer and let us help you plan the best Danang – Hue – Hoi An tour with private car, professional drivers, and authentic local insights.