How to Get From Da Nang to Hoi An: Taxi, Bus, Motorbike & Transfer Guide

If you’re visiting central Vietnam, you’re probably going to visit both Da Nang and Hoi An. The two cities sit super close together but have completely different vibes.
Da Nang is a bustling beachy city with malls, rooftop bars, and international flights departing daily. Hoi An is slower-paced, more romantic, and known for its lantern-filled Ancient Town, riverside cafes, and tailor shops.

Luckily getting from Da Nang to Hoi An (and vice versa) is actually pretty easy. The two cities are only about 30km apart so most transport takes between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

I spent a few days visiting both cities and tried every transport option in between. Some were convenient. Some were better suited for budget travelers or those looking for more flexibility. Here’s everything you need to know about getting from Da Nang to Hoi An, including buses, taxis, motorbikes, and private transfers. I’ll also provide helpful tips and approx costs so you can decide which option suits you best.

How Far Is Da Nang From Hoi An?

The distance between Da Nang and Hoi An is about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles). Actually most tourists are surprised how near it is. With good traffic it only takes you about 40–45 minutes for a direct ride.

• Starting Points:
• Da Nang International Airport
• My Khe Beach
• Da Nang city center
• Da Nang train station

Transport to and from Hoi An mostly depart from those places and arrive easily to Hoi An Ancient Town or near resorts.

Option 1: Taxi or Ride Hailing From Da Nang to Hoi An

Taxi or Ride Hailing (Grab) is by far the simplest option for most travellers.

Coming out of the airport with luggage and/or kids/tiredness from your flight, you honestly couldn’t ask for a better service either.

Options:

• Regular taxi
• Grab app
• Private airport pick-up pre-booked

Approximate Cost

Normal rates start from:

• 300,000 VND – 450,000 VND one way
• Approximately SGD 16–25 depending on demand and class of car
• Expect rates to be slightly higher during rain/holidays/late nights.

Estimated Journey Time

45–60 minutes

Traffic outside Hoi An Ancient Town has been known to backlog traffic during peak weekends/evenings.

Worth It?

I would recommend taxis as they provide the optimal price and comfort factor for most travellers.

Especially if you’re:

• Travelled as a couple/family
• Have big luggage
• Travelled late at night
• Want convenience from point A to point B

During my travels, Grab actually turned out to be cheaper than what I would usually pay in Singapore. From Da Nang airport to my hotel located in Hoi An, my journey by taxi felt seamless.

Option 2: Private Transfer

Private transfer pretty much means “taxi but better”.

Instead of searching for a driver when you arrive, a car is pre-booked and waiting for you with a driver.

Popular with:

• Family with children
• Groups
• Luxury travelers
• Beach Resort guests

Lots of resorts around Hoi An can book this for you as well.

Benefits of Private Transfers

The two biggest advantages are convenience and reliability.

Private transfers typically include:

• Pickup from airport
• Meet-&-greet sign
• Fixed price
• SUVs
• English support
• Child seats available

If you’re staying at any of the high-end resorts near Hoi An, they very well may offer private transfers for their guests already.

How Much Does it Cost?

Private Transfers usually range from:

350,000 – 700,000 VND
More if you want fancier vans or cars

It is a little more expensive than Grab, but after a long flight the upgraded experience might be worth it for you.

Option 3: Bus From Da Nang to Hoi An

If you’re trying to keep costs low when traveling between the two cities, taking a bus is your cheapest option.

Bus Types: There are generally 2 different bus types:

• Local buses vs Tourist buses
• Local Bus

Local Bus

Local buses are by far the cheapest mode of transportation.

Downsides include buses often being:

• Crowded
• Slow
• Don’t allow as much luggage
• Are more confusing if you’re visiting Vietnam for the first time

Vietnamese routes and transportation can change too, so always double check with locally.

Tourist Bus

Tourist buses have typically been set up to cater to travelers and will often provide:

• Hotel pickup from your accommodation
• Air-conditioned mini vans
• A direct transfer from Da Nang to Hoi An

How Much Does A Bus Cost?

Between 100,000 – 200,000 VND

How Long Does The Bus Take?

Around 60-90 Minutes

Keep in mind this will vary based on pickup locations and traffic.

Do I Recommend The Bus?

It depends. If you’re backpacking, looking to save money and don’t have a lot of luggage, then taking the bus is great. However, if you’ve got family with you or lots of luggage I find you often get what you pay for and paying a little extra for Grab or a private transfer is worth it.

Option 4: Motorbike From Da Nang to Hoi An

Renting a motorbike is one of the most fun ways to travel between Da Nang and Hoi An for adventure-seeking travelers.

The road is fairly scenic and simple to drive.

Things to stop at on the way:

• Beaches
• Cafes
• Fishing villages
• Marble Mountains

Marble Mountains is my favorite stop if you’d like to make a pit stop along the way.

Motorbike Rental Prices

120,000 – 200,000 VND / day

Gas is very cheap too.

Estimated Riding Time

45–60 minutes without stopping.

However, most people take a few breaks for photos or coffee.

Things to Know

A few things to remember before renting a motorbike in Vietnam:

• Traffic in Vietnam is chaotic/busy
• If it rains, the roads can get slick
• You may not be covered by travel insurance if you don’t have a proper license
• International Driving Permit is technically required

If you’re not comfortable riding in Southeast Asia traffic, I wouldn’t recommend taking a motorbike. Some people may enjoy it but I personally wouldn’t rent another motorbike in Vietnam.

Those that aren’t bothered by traffic may absolutely fall in love with riding.

Can You Use Grab Between Da Nang and Hoi An?

Yes indeed. Grab works great in Da Nang and Hoi An.

Grab might actually be the easiest transportation option for many foreign visitors.

Grab allows you to book:

• GrabCar
• Grab Bike
• Larger family cars

Personally I felt Grab prices were very affordable when visiting central Vietnam, compared to Singapore for example.

One handy tip would be to compare…

• Grab prices
• Local taxis prices
• Hotel transfer prices

Some hotel transfer prices can be shockingly good.

Should You Stay in Da Nang or Hoi An?

Honestly, this is probably the most asked question by travelers.

If You Want To Stay In Da Nang:

• Newer hotels
• Hotels by the beach
• Better nightlife
• Shopping malls
• Close to the airport
• Luxury hotels at a better price

If You Want To Stay In Hoi An:

• Old town atmosphere
• Strolling around with lantern lit streets
• Unique boutique hotels
• Coffee shops and a slower pace
• More romantic
• Easier to see sites by walking

Of course a lot of people decide to stay in both cities for part of their trip.

I would too if I had the time.

Best Option for Different Travelers

Best for Families: Private transfer or taxi

Best for Budget: Travelers Bus

Best for Couples: Grab or private transfer

Best for Adventurous Travelers: Motorbike

Best for First-Time Vietnam Visitors: Grab or airport transfer

Tips for Traveling Between Da Nang and Hoi An

Steer Clear of Rush Hour When You Can

Traffic can be heavier than you expect during:

• Evenings
• Weekend nights
• Holiday seasons
• Have Some Small Bills on Hand

While Grab accepts cards, smaller shops/local taxis may still only accept cash.

Download Offline Maps

Google Maps allows you to download offline maps to easily navigate when needed.

Keep an Eye on the Weather Forecast

Central Vietnam is susceptible to:

• Heavy rainfall
• Flash floods
• Typhoons

Especially during months September-November.

Final Thoughts

Traveling between Da Nang and Hoi An is fortunately quite simple, even for travelers new to Vietnam.

For the majority of people, I truly believe that Grab/Private Transfer provides the best overall value. It’s priced fairly, takes very little time, and saves you a lot of hassle.
However, if you’re strictly traveling on a backpacker budget buses can still work well. Likewise, if you’re into adventure, traveling by motorbike along Vietnam’s coastline may become one of your new favorite experiences.

No matter how you choose to travel, both places have their own charm. It’s easy to enjoy the beaches and creature comforts of Da Nang while experiencing the wonder that is Hoi An’s lantern-lined streets.