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Are you looking for the best and most sustainable ways to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An? If yes, then this guide is for you! Whether you’re a backpacker or a luxury traveler, you’ll find many transportation options to get to Hoi An, including train, flight, and bus. To help you make an informed decision, I will share all the information about traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An in this guide. It covers everything, including the cheapest and fastest options, how long the journey takes, how much the tickets cost, and where to buy them. If you want to travel with ease and a smile, keep reading!
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is located in the southern part of Vietnam and is the largest city in the country. The city has a rich history. During the Vietnam War, it served as the capital of the Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam). Today, it is a bustling metropolis with modern skyscrapers and colonial-era buildings.
As a traveler, you can find many tourist attractions here, including the War Remnants Museum, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and the Ben Thanh Market. Its streets are packed with people, motorbikes, and street vendors, and its nightlife is lively and exciting.
Ho Chi Minh City also provides easy access to many other Vietnamese cities, including Da Lat (329 km), Nha Trang (410 km), and Hoi An (900 km). If you want to escape the bustling and fast-paced environment of Ho Chi Minh City, a trip to Hoi An must be on your Vietnam itinerary.
Hoi An is a popular stop for everyone traveling from Ho Chi Minh City in the south to the northern parts of Vietnam, like Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Cat Ba, and Halong Bay. Hoi An is a charming town located in the Quang Nam Province on the central coast of Vietnam. The town was once a major trading port between Vietnam, China, and Japan. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 due to its well-preserved ancient architecture, including temples, pagodas, and old merchant houses.
The town covers an area of approximately 60 square kilometers and has a population of around 120,000 people. Some top attractions in Hoi An include the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Tan Ky Old House, the Hoi An Museum, and the Fujian Assembly Hall.
As a conscious traveler, you can explore the town’s narrow streets, historic buildings, and traditional markets while learning about its fascinating history. Hoi An is famous for its delicious food, which includes local specialties such as Cao Lau noodles and Banh Mi sandwiches.
→ Also read: How to Get From Hoi An to Hanoi in 2024?
The best time to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An depends on your preferences. If you want a relaxing trip, I recommend the months from February to April, when the weather is dry and sunny. During this time, you can also avoid the crowds of tourists that come during the summer months. Many travelers also recommend March as the best month to visit Hoi An.
If you prefer a colder climate, May to July is also a good time to visit Hoi An, as the temperatures are mild and rainfall is minimal. This period marks the end of the dry season and is considered the peak tourist season. It is a great time for a trip with friends or family.
The rainy season is usually from September to January when the roads can be flooded, and traveling can be difficult. It’s best to avoid traveling during these months.
The distance between Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An is approximately 900 kilometers. The best way to travel between these two destinations is by plane, train, or bus.
If you choose to travel by plane, the flight takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang, the nearest airport to Hoi An. From Da Nang, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach Hoi An, which is located about 30 kilometers away.
Alternatively, a more eco-friendly option is taking a train from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang, which takes around 17-20 hours, depending on the type of train you choose. The train journey is comfortable and scenic, and it is a great way to see the countryside of Vietnam. Once you reach Da Nang, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach Hoi An.
If you’re looking for the most affordable and sustainable option, the bus is the best option. It takes about 24 hours to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An. Bus tickets start from $32.
So, choose the option depending on how much time you have and what fits your budget!
Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam, and getting from one to the other is relatively easy. Here are the best ways to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An:
Estimated Duration: 1 Hour 20 Minutes
Estimated Cost: $77-$120
The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An is by flight. It is a popular choice among travelers but note that Hoi An doesn’t have its own airport. The nearest airport is in Da Nang, about 30 km from Hoi An. The flight duration is typically around 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Here’s how to travel by air from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An.
If you’re in the city center, you can take a bus or taxi to the airport. If you’re trying to save money, you can choose Public Bus #152. It takes about 45 minutes and costs $0.20 (6,000 VND). Or you can book a taxi for about $6.00 (150,000 VND).
The flights usually depart from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City and arrive at Da Nang International Airport in Da Nang. After landing, you can take a taxi or bus from Da Nang to Hoi An.
Popular airlines, including Vietnam Airlines, Jester Pacific, Bamboo Airways, and VieJet Air, operate daily flights. The cost of a one-way ticket from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An varies depending on the airline you choose and how far in advance you book. On average, you can expect to pay around $77-$120 for a one-way ticket. To book a flight, you can visit the airline’s website or use a travel booking website like 12Go.
Travel Tip: Try to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time to allow for check-in, security, and boarding.
Once you land in Da Nang, you can take a taxi or a 1-hour shuttle service to Hoi An. If you’re traveling alone, the shuttle bus is a good choice because it is cheaper. The bus will take you directly from the airport to the center of Hoi An. The bus comes every 20 minutes between 5:30 am and 6:00 pm.
If you’re traveling with family or have luggage, taking a taxi is a good option. You can find taxis outside the arrival area. Just make sure you agree on the cost before you hop into the car, and keep some cash ready. You can arrange for a private car through your hotel or 12Go.
Estimated Duration: 21-23 Hours
Estimated Cost: $32-$50
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An, you should consider taking a bus. It is a great option for slow travelers who want to save money and reduce their carbon footprint. The bus travels directly from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An, so you don’t have to worry about additional transfers.
The journey takes around 21-23 hours, depending on the bus company you choose and the stops they make. As the journey is long, they usually take short breaks, about 10-30 minutes, after a few hours of driving. During these breaks, you can use the bathroom, get snacks, and get fresh air.
Different bus companies operate on this route, including Vietnam Travel Bus, Hanh Cafe, and Full Moon Party Tour. These bus companies provide both day and night buses. Their prices range from $32 to $50, depending on the level of comfort you prefer.
Once you reach Hoi An, you can take a taxi or walk for a 20-minute distance to the city center.
Below are the popular companies that provide bus services from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An.
Vietnam Travel Bus is a reputable bus company that travels from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An. They run many daily buses, including sleeper buses and VIP luxury buses. These buses are equipped with modern amenities, including reclining seats, air conditioning, TV, and WiFi.
Full Moon Party Tour is a popular and reputable bus company. They run three bus services daily from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An. Their sleeper buses provide passengers with air conditioning, TV, WiFi, and bunker beds. You will also get a blanket and a pillow during the journey.
Hanh Cafe is an affordable and comfortable choice to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An. Their buses depart from different points in Ho Chi Minh City and end their journey in Hoi An at Hoi An Hanh Cafe.
You can book bus tickets online or through a travel agency. Some popular and reliable websites to book bus tickets include 12GAsia. You can also book tickets in person at the bus station.
When booking your tickets, be sure to check the departure and arrival times as well as the duration of the journey. I also recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as buses can fill up quickly.
Estimated Time: 17-19 hours
Estimated Cost: $25-$70
If you are planning to get to Hoi An but find flight prices too expensive, you can consider taking a train. Not only can you save money, but you’ll also get to enjoy the scenic countryside views along the way.
Hoi An doesn’t have its own train station, but you can take a train to the nearby city of Da Nang. The trains run from Ho Chi Minh City’s Saigon Railway Station to Da Nang Railway Station, which is about 30 km from Hoi An. From there, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or a private car to reach Hoi An.
Here’s how you can get from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An by train!
Take a taxi from Ho Chi Minh City Centre to Saigon Railway Station. The station is located near District 1, where many hotels are located. You can take a short taxi ride to the train station, and it will only cost a few dollars.
From Saigon Station, you can catch a train to Da Nang. The train journey takes around 17-19 hours, depending on the type of train you choose. Seven trains operate daily on this route, from basic to luxury.
You can choose from soft seats, hard seats, soft sleepers (4-berth), and hard sleepers (6-berth). Train tickets start from $25. Trains can get chilly, so carry a jacket or shawl!
Once you arrive at Da Nang Railway Station, you can take a minivan or taxi to reach Hoi An. It takes about 1 hour to get to the city center from Da Nang station. Minivans and buses are available daily, and you can book online through 12Go. Prices start from 155,000 VND ($6.00). Alternatively, a taxi ride costs around 440,000 VND ($17.50).
If you want an affordable train, you can choose trains run by Vietnam Railways, such as SE22, SE6, SE2, SE4, and SE8. Their tickets start from $25. They run both day and overnight sleeper trains.
If you want a bit of luxury, you can book a luxury sleeper train by Violette Express Train. They are not separate trains but luxury carriages added to the SE2 trains. These carriages are equipped with spacious cabins and private bathrooms. The cabins are comfortable and clean, and each berth has a reading lamp, power socket, and bedding. They also offer WiFi and onboard meals.
Check the train schedules here!
You can book train tickets online or in person. I recommend booking online, as it is an easy and hassle-free way. You can book online train tickets through 12Go and Vietnam Railways.
Another option is to book in person at the railway station. Whichever option you prefer, remember to secure your train tickets in advance, especially during peak travel times.
→ Also read: How to Get From Hanoi to Sapa by Train
Once you reach Hoi An, there is plenty to see and do. Here are some of the top things to do in Hoi An:
One of the best things to do in Hoi An is to ride a bicycle through the beautiful countryside. You can rent a bicycle from your hotel or a rental shop. Different hotels provide free bicycles.
Ride from the Ancient Town to the open roads of Cam Chau and Cam Thanh. You can follow narrow paths in the rice fields. It takes only a 10-minute bike ride from the center to get to the countryside.
You’ll see real Vietnamese countryside life, with many green vegetable gardens, cute duck ponds, and small repair shops along the way. You’ll also see local people with water buffalos working in the fields.
→ Also read: 15 Great Things to Do in Tam Coc (Ninh Binh)
Hoi An’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and gives nostalgic vibes. Its narrow streets are lined with beautiful old buildings, many dating back to the 15th century. Take a walk through its streets, looking at the French and Asian-style houses, shutters, and colors.
You can join a guided walking tour to learn more about the city’s history. Visit cozy coffee shops, some with outdoor seating, where you can see the old roofs and the river. In the evening, the streets light up with lanterns, making it feel charming and romantic.
In Hoi An, you can join a cooking class tour to learn how to make delicious Vietnamese food. Many restaurants and cooking schools in Hoi An offer classes where you can learn to make dishes like pho, spring rolls, and banh mi. The classes usually last 3 to 5 hours.
You don’t need to be a cooking expert to have fun at Hoi An’s cooking classes. You can join in from the very beginning – from shopping at the public market to cooking with a frying pan and clay pot. The best part is getting to eat what you’ve cooked.
→ Also read: Vegan Food in Vietnam: Everything You Need to Know!
Take a relaxed ride on the river in a traditional Vietnamese basket-boat! These round boats, called Thung Chai, are made from bamboo. You can rent the boat, paddle, or join a basket boat tour to see life along the water.
You can easily walk from the old town to the river, and there you’ll find many boat trips on the Thu Bon river. Another option is going to Cam Thanh Village, where you can paddle through a forest of coconut trees using a basket boat. It is a must-try experience when you’re in Hoi An!
One of the most famous things to see in Hoi An, Vietnam, is the Japanese Bridge. It was built in the 16th century to connect the Japanese and Chinese quarters of the city. The bridge is over a river and looks very pretty. You can go see it during the day and at night when it’s all lit up. It is a popular spot for tourists to take photos.
In Hoi An, you can choose to stay in one of the many ancient homes that have been converted into guesthouses, or you can opt for a hotel or resort. Some popular areas to stay in Hoi An are the Old Town, An Bang Beach, and Cua Dai Beach.
If you’re looking for a bit of luxury in Hoi An, Allegro Hotel & Resort is the perfect place for it. They have everything you need for a cozy stay: an outdoor pool, a gym, a spa, and a restaurant inside. The rooms are big and nicely decorated, with bright colors and wooden furniture. They even put a basket of fresh local fruits in your room.
Make sure to treat yourself to the hotel spa during your stay. You can choose a massage or a steam bath session. They also offer a 50% discount happy hour deal on beverages and cocktails from 5 – 7 pm. At the end of the day, you can watch the sunset from your balcony and dip in your large, private bathtub.
This boutique hotel is located only a short walk from Hoi An Old Town along the river. It features stylish rooms with river views, a rooftop infinity pool, and a spa. The rooms are big, comfortable, and have large bathtubs. You’ll get to enjoy free buffet breakfasts and happy hour cocktails on the rooftop.
The hotel has a private beach area for you to enjoy. You can also use their free bikes to explore nearby villages. After a long day, you can get a free massage at the onsite Ozone Spa.
If you’re looking for an eco-conscious stay a bit far from the city center, Hoi An Eco Lodge & Spa is a perfect option. It is located in Cam Thanh Village, only a 10-minute drive from Hoi An. The entire place is an oasis, and you’ll be surrounded by nature, peace, and greenery. The staff is very friendly and prioritizes customer satisfaction. You can also relax at the lodge’s spa, which offers a variety of treatments using natural ingredients.
If you stay in their club room, you’ll get 40% off at the spa and 20% off on food and drinks. They also offer free bike rental services. You can rent a bike and explore the surroundings.
If you’re looking for a peaceful stay away from the traffic sounds, consider ENSO Retreat Hoi An. You’ll love the natural and green surroundings at the resort. The staff is friendly, and the rooms are comfortable and clean, giving you a 5-star hotel vibe.
At the resort, you can enjoy a special dining experience. They cook fresh items and present them in an authentic style. You must try their Cafe Sua da, the famous Vietnamese iced coffee.
The resort is located a 10-minute drive from the city center. They provide free bike rentals and free shuttle service to the town and An Bang Beach and can also arrange transport to the airport. You will definitely want to come back!
If you’re looking for a luxury stay in Hoi An, the Anantara Hotel is the best choice. This beautiful resort is located near the Thu Bon River in Hoi An. It has beautiful gardens with frangipani and coconut palms. You can take a class to learn about local crafts like lantern making, making conical hats, and painting.
The hotel is very eco-friendly, and they do not use plastic bottles. They use bamboo straws for drinks. The resort also has a beautiful pool area, a spa with steam rooms, and a riverside restaurant. The resort is within walking distance from the buzzing Old Town.
The duration of the journey depends on the mode of transportation you choose. By flight, it takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Trains take around 17 to 22 hours, while buses may take up to 24 hours.
The quickest option is to take a flight. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang International Airport in Da Nang.
No, there are no direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An. You’ll need to fly to Da Nang and then take a taxi or shuttle bus to Hoi An.
The most budget-friendly option is taking the bus. A bus journey has a longer travel time, about 24 hours. Bus tickets can start from $25.
Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An is a great way to experience the diverse culture and heritage of Vietnam. You have different ways to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An. Choose the one that suits your time, budget, and travel style.
Regardless of your choice, make sure to plan your trip in advance and book your tickets early to avoid any last-minute hassle!
Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or drop me a message through my contact page.
Also, don’t forget to check out my resources page with my favorite booking platforms and tips to start planning your trip. Additionally, have a look at my favorite travel gear if you want to pack more consciously!
ENJOY!
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Hi! I am Annelies and this is Travelers & Dreamers, a blog about conscious travel which means traveling in a more mindful way, with a positive impact on the world and yourself!
On this website, I cover different topics like slow travel, plant-based food guides, responsible travel, sustainable packing, eco-travel, and more!
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