One of the most common and essential journeys you will make while exploring the beautiful Central region of our country is the trip between the charming, ancient town of Hoi An and the modern, coastal city of Da Nang. The wonderful news is that these two incredible destinations are located very close to each other, approximately 25–30 km apart. This short distance makes the transfer incredibly quick and easy, with travel times usually ranging from just 30 to 60 minutes. For our Indian travelers, we know that choosing the right mode of transport is all about balancing your budget, your desire for privacy and comfort, and the speed of your journey, especially if you are planning a fun day trip or catching a flight from Da Nang airport. This guide from Vietnam Story will detail all of your best options for traveling from Hoi An to Da Nang, ensuring your short journey is completely seamless and stress-free.
The most convenient option: Private car and Taxi/grab
Is it safe and convenient to take a taxi or Grab between these cities? Yes, absolutely. For families, groups with luggage, or any traveler who prioritizes a direct, comfortable, and private door-to-door transfer, this is the fastest and most highly recommended option. This is the choice for those who value their time and comfort above all else. Let’s look at your best options.
The private car (A pre-booked transfer)
A direct, pre-booked private car is the fastest way, taking only 30 – 45 minutes. This option offers incredibly competitive and, most importantly, fixed prices. You can expect to pay between $12 – $15 USD for a comfortable 4-seat car.
Best for:
- Airport transfers: This is the perfect, stress-free way to get to or from Da Nang International Airport (DAD).
- Families and groups: When the cost is split between 3 or 4 people, it becomes extremely cost-effective.
- Sightseeing: You can easily ask your private car driver to incorporate a stop at a beautiful attraction along the way, like the magnificent Marble Mountains, for a small additional fee.
Vietnamstory insight: We always highly recommend a pre-arranged private car, especially for late-night or early-morning airport transfers. It guarantees you a fixed price, a clean and reliable vehicle, and completely avoids any potential for misunderstandings or disputes with a taxi driver.
The on-demand taxi and ride-sharing (Grab)
The journey usually takes 40 – 60 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost will be approximately $12 – $21 USD (which is 300,000 – 450,000 VND). It is important to remember that Grab fares are subject to dynamic pricing, meaning the price can be higher during peak hours or if there is high demand.
The Grab app (our version of Uber/Ola) is the most convenient on-demand option, offering transparent, upfront pricing. Traditional taxis from reputable companies like Mai Linh (green cars) and Vinasun (white cars) are also widely available and reliable.
READ MORE: Ha Noi to Da Nang travel guide: Connecting North to Central Vietnam
The best value option: The shared shuttle and tourist bus
Are there direct buses or shuttle services available? Yes, and for solo travelers or couples who are on a budget, the tourist shuttles offer the absolute best balance of low cost and a good level of comfort. This is the smart choice for saving money without sacrificing too much comfort.
The shared tourist shuttle/minivan
The journey takes a bit longer, usually between 60 – 90 minutes, as the shuttle will make multiple stops to pick up or drop off other passengers at their hotels. This is where the shuttle offers excellent value. A one-way ticket costs only $5 – $8 USD per person. These shuttles are very frequent, with multiple departures every hour, typically running from early morning (around 7:00 AM) to late evening (around 9:00 PM).
These shuttle operators are perfect for planning a day trip to or from Da Nang. They are reliable and often offer convenient pick-up and drop-off services at specific hotels in both cities.
The public bus (The absolute cheapest option)
The local public bus No. 1 operates on the route between Da Nang and Hoi An. This is the slowest option, taking around 70 to 90 minutes due to its many fixed stops along the way.
It is extremely cheap, with a ticket costing only $1 – $2 USD (approximately 18,000 to 30,000 VND). The pros are that it is an authentic local experience and is the absolute lowest cost. The cons are that it has very limited space for luggage, a less flexible schedule, and is a much slower way to travel. We generally do not recommend this option for first-time visitors or for travelers who value comfort and convenience.
The adventure route: Renting a motorbike
Can I rent a motorbike to travel between Da Nang and Hoi An? Yes, you can, and it is a very popular option for adventurous and experienced riders. This is the choice for those who crave freedom and a scenic, open-air journey. The direct riding time is about 45 – 60 minutes. Renting a motorbike is very cheap, usually costing only $3 – $7 USD per day, plus a small amount for petrol.
The main road runs parallel to our beautiful coastline, offering a wonderfully scenic route that takes you past beautiful beaches and luxury resorts. Vietnamstory.in only recommends this option for experienced and confident riders who have the proper international driving permits and are fully covered by comprehensive travel insurance. The traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic, and your safety is the most important thing.
A summary of your options and key logistics
To help you make the best decision, here is a simple comparison of all your choices. So, what is the best way to travel from Hoi An to Da Nang for a day trip or an airport transfer?
Your transport summary
| Mode | Duration (Door-to-Door) | Estimated Cost | Comfort Level | Recommendation |
| Private Car | 30 – 45 minutes | $12 – $15 USD (Per Car) | High | The Best Overall. Perfect for speed, airport transfers, and the comfort of families and groups. |
| Shared Shuttle | 60 – 90 minutes | $5 – $8 USD (Per Person) | Medium | Excellent for budget-conscious solo travelers and couples who want a good balance of comfort and convenience. |
| Public Bus (No. 1) | 70 – 90 minutes | $1 – $2 USD (Per Person) | Basic | Only for extreme budget travelers who are traveling light and are not in a hurry. |
Important logistics and planning tips
It is very important to know that the beautiful center of the Hoi An Old Town is a pedestrian-only zone. All motorized transport, including your private car or shuttle bus, will drop you off near the perimeter of this zone (on a street like Hai Ba Trung). From there, it is a very short and pleasant walk to your hotel.
To make the most of your day trip, we highly recommend pre-booking a private car or shuttle that allows for a stop at the Marble Mountains or the Linh Ung Pagoda on the way. This is a very efficient way to see another major attraction without adding significant cost to your transfer.
While the journey is usually very quick, please be mindful of traffic conditions. During the peak morning and evening hours, the travel time can extend closer to 60 minutes.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the short and easy journey between Hoi An and Da Nang is what makes Central Vietnam such a perfect and complete holiday destination. It allows you to seamlessly enjoy the “best of both worlds”: the ancient, lantern-lit charm of a UNESCO World Heritage town and the modern, vibrant energy of a thriving coastal city. By choosing the right transport, you can effortlessly blend cultural immersion with beach relaxation, making your trip as diverse as it is delightful.
At Vietnam Story, our expertise lies in creating these seamless connections for you. Let us handle all your transfer needs, so you can simply relax and enjoy the beautiful journey between these two incredible, complementary destinations. Contact us today, and let’s start planning a trip that gives you the very best of Central Vietnam.