Da Nang to Hoi An

Da Nang to Hoi An

Complete transport guide covering taxi, Grab, bus, private transfer, and motorbike options with prices, journey times, and booking tips for the 30km coastal route

Da Nang to Hoi An is one of Vietnam's most common transfers — the 30-kilometre journey from Da Nang Airport (or city centre) south to Hoi An's Ancient Town takes just 30-45 minutes by road. Whether you want the convenience of a Grab car, the budget-friendliness of the local bus, the hassle-free luxury of a hotel shuttle, or the adventure of a motorbike ride along the coast, here is everything you need to know to choose the right option and arrive smoothly.

Quick Comparison

TransportTimeCostComfortBest For
Taxi / Grab30-45 min250,000 - 350,000₫HighMost travelers
Local Bus #160-75 min30,000₫MediumBudget travelers
Private Transfer30-45 min350,000 - 500,000₫HighHassle-free arrival
Motorbike30-45 min150,000 - 200,000₫/dayLow-MediumAdventurous riders
Hotel Shuttle45-60 minFree - 200,000₫HighHotel guests

5 Ways to Get from Da Nang to Hoi An

🚕

Taxi / Grab

30-45 minutes250,000 - 350,000₫

Grab, Mai Linh Taxi, Vinasun Taxi

Grab (Vietnam's ride-hailing app) or a metered taxi is the most popular and convenient way to get from Da Nang to Hoi An. The journey follows the coastal road south through a mix of beachside development and rice paddies. Grab works identically to Uber — set your pickup and destination in the app, confirm the fare upfront, and pay by cash or card. This is the recommended option for most travelers, especially those arriving at Da Nang Airport.

Pros

  • +Most convenient option — door-to-door service from airport, hotel, or train station directly to your Hoi An accommodation
  • +Fixed fare on Grab means no meter anxiety or route disputes — you know the cost before you book
  • +Available 24/7 including late-night arrivals at Da Nang Airport
  • +Air-conditioned comfort after a long flight — essential in the Vietnamese heat

Cons

  • -Prices surge slightly during peak hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) and in heavy rain
  • -Grab drivers may cancel if the destination is far from Da Nang centre — rebook if this happens
  • -You need a Vietnamese SIM card or Wi-Fi for the Grab app (available at the airport)
  • -Metered taxis from the airport can overcharge if you do not use Grab — insist on the meter or use Grab
Booking Tip: Download the Grab app before arriving. At Da Nang Airport, exit to the arrivals area, connect to airport Wi-Fi or buy a SIM card (50,000-100,000₫ from Viettel or Mobifone booths), and book a Grab. The app shows the fare upfront. For metered taxis, use only Mai Linh (green) or Vinasun (white) — they are the most reliable. Agree on the Hoi An fare before departing if not using the meter.
🚌

Local Bus (Yellow Bus #1)

60-75 minutes30,000₫

Da Nang Public Bus

The yellow public bus #1 runs between Da Nang Bus Station and Hoi An Bus Station throughout the day. This is the cheapest option by far and is used primarily by locals. The bus follows the main road through local towns, making frequent stops along the way. While slow and basic, it is a genuine local experience and perfectly safe. The bus is air-conditioned and relatively comfortable for the short journey.

Pros

  • +By far the cheapest option at just 30,000₫ ($1.20 USD) — less than a tenth of a taxi fare
  • +Runs frequently throughout the day from approximately 5:30 AM to 5:30 PM
  • +Air-conditioned and comfortable enough for the 60-75 minute journey
  • +An authentic local transport experience — you will be the only tourist on board most days

Cons

  • -Does not depart from Da Nang Airport — you need to get to Da Nang Bus Station first (a 15-minute Grab ride)
  • -Slower than a taxi due to multiple stops through local towns along the route
  • -Drops you at Hoi An Bus Station, which is 1-2km from the Ancient Town centre — a short walk or cyclo ride
  • -No luggage storage — manageable with a backpack but awkward with large suitcases
Booking Tip: No advance booking needed — just turn up at Da Nang Bus Station and look for yellow bus #1 heading to Hoi An. Pay the conductor on board (30,000₫ cash). Buses run roughly every 20-30 minutes. From Hoi An Bus Station, it is a 15-20 minute walk to the Ancient Town or a quick Grab ride for 20,000-30,000₫. Not practical if arriving at the airport with heavy luggage — use Grab instead.
🚘

Private Transfer

30-45 minutes350,000 - 500,000₫

Hotel transfers, local agencies, Klook

A pre-booked private transfer is essentially a taxi arranged in advance through your hotel, a travel agency, or a booking platform like Klook. The driver meets you at the airport or hotel with a name sign and takes you directly to your Hoi An accommodation. This option costs slightly more than Grab but removes the need for a SIM card or app — ideal for travelers who want zero hassle on arrival.

Pros

  • +Driver meets you at the airport with a name sign — no need for Grab app, SIM card, or Wi-Fi
  • +Pre-confirmed price with no surges — you know exactly what you are paying before you arrive
  • +Many Hoi An hotels offer free or discounted airport transfers — ask when booking your room
  • +Larger vehicles available for groups or families with lots of luggage

Cons

  • -More expensive than Grab by 50,000-150,000₫ — you pay for the convenience of pre-booking
  • -Less flexibility — you need to commit to an arrival time, which can be tricky with flight delays
  • -Quality varies between providers — book through your hotel or a reputable platform for reliability
  • -Not necessary if you have the Grab app working — Grab is cheaper and equally convenient
Booking Tip: Email your Hoi An hotel before arrival and ask about airport transfer services — many offer free transfers for bookings of 3+ nights. Alternatively, book through Klook.com or GetYourGuide.com for guaranteed service. Provide your flight number so the driver can track your arrival. Confirm the total price including any tolls or fees. A private transfer is best for late-night arrivals when Grab availability may be lower.
🏍️

Motorbike Rental

30-45 minutes150,000 - 200,000₫/day

Self-drive rental shops, hotel rentals

Renting a motorbike in Da Nang and riding the coastal road to Hoi An is a scenic and adventurous option for experienced riders. The route follows the coast past beaches, through small towns, and into the countryside surrounding Hoi An. The road is relatively flat and straightforward. This option also gives you transport for exploring Hoi An and the surrounding area during your stay.

Pros

  • +The most scenic and adventurous way to make the journey — follow the coastal road past My Khe Beach
  • +Having a motorbike in Hoi An is useful for reaching An Bang Beach, Tra Que Village, and My Son Sanctuary
  • +Very affordable at 150,000-200,000₫ per day for a semi-automatic scooter
  • +Freedom to stop wherever you want along the route for photos, food, or beach breaks

Cons

  • -Vietnamese traffic is chaotic and dangerous — only suitable for experienced motorbike riders
  • -Most travel insurance does not cover motorbike accidents unless you hold a valid Vietnamese licence
  • -Not practical with large luggage — a backpack is manageable but suitcases are not
  • -Navigation can be confusing at intersections — download offline maps before departing
Booking Tip: Rent from shops near Da Nang's beach area or train station (150,000-200,000₫/day for a Honda Wave or similar semi-automatic). Check brakes, lights, horn, and tyre pressure before departing. Wear a helmet (legally required). The coastal road is well-signed but download Google Maps offline as a backup. Return the bike at a partner shop in Hoi An or ride it back when you leave. Always photograph any existing damage before renting.
🛩️

Hotel Airport Shuttle

45-60 minutesFree - 200,000₫

Hoi An hotels and resorts

Many mid-range and higher-end hotels in Hoi An offer complimentary or low-cost airport shuttle services from Da Nang Airport. This is often the most hassle-free option — the hotel arranges everything, and a driver meets you at arrivals. The shuttle may be a private car for premium hotels or a shared minibus for budget and mid-range properties. Always ask your hotel about this option when booking.

Pros

  • +Often completely free for guests at mid-range and luxury hotels — the best-value option if available
  • +Zero hassle — the hotel handles everything, including tracking your flight for delays
  • +No need for a SIM card, Grab app, or cash on arrival — pay at the hotel or included in room rate
  • +Some hotels offer welcome drinks and cold towels on arrival in the shuttle — a nice touch

Cons

  • -Not available at all hotels — primarily offered by mid-range, boutique, and luxury properties
  • -Shared shuttles may wait for other arriving guests, adding 15-30 minutes to your journey
  • -Usually needs to be arranged at least 24-48 hours in advance with flight details
  • -Not available for departures at some hotels — check both directions when booking
Booking Tip: Email your hotel at least 48 hours before arrival with your flight number, arrival time, and number of passengers. Ask specifically: "Do you offer a complimentary airport transfer from Da Nang?" Even if not free, hotel transfers are typically cheaper than private transfers and more convenient than arranging your own. This is the recommended first option to check before considering alternatives.

Hoi An to Da Nang (Reverse Direction)

All the same options work in reverse. Here are the key tips for getting back to Da Nang.

For Airport Departures

Allow at least 90 minutes before your flight for the transfer from Hoi An to Da Nang Airport. Book a Grab the night before or arrange a hotel transfer. Morning departures (6-8 AM) may encounter school traffic. The journey typically takes 30-45 minutes but can stretch to 60 minutes in heavy traffic. Grab is the most reliable option for airport runs.

For Da Nang Day Trips

If you are day-tripping from Hoi An to Da Nang (Marble Mountains, My Khe Beach, Dragon Bridge), a Grab each way is the most practical option. Alternatively, rent a motorbike for the day (150,000-200,000d) for maximum flexibility. The Marble Mountains are only 15km from Hoi An — a convenient stop en route to or from Da Nang. Budget 500,000-700,000d for a comfortable Da Nang day trip by Grab.

Route Tips & What to Know

The Coastal Road Is Scenic

The main road from Da Nang to Hoi An follows the coast past My Khe Beach, through the beachside resort strip of Non Nuoc, past the Marble Mountains, and then inland through rice paddies into Hoi An. On a clear day, the views are lovely. If riding a motorbike, the coastal section is especially enjoyable. Ask your Grab driver to take the coastal road rather than the highway for better scenery.

Buy a SIM Card at the Airport

A Vietnamese SIM card is essential for Grab, Google Maps, and staying connected. Buy one at the Viettel or Mobifone booth in Da Nang Airport arrivals (50,000-100,000d for a tourist SIM with data). This takes 5 minutes and makes your entire Vietnam trip easier. Viettel has the best coverage nationwide. Without a SIM, you will need to rely on airport Wi-Fi to book your first Grab.

Stop at the Marble Mountains

The Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son) sit midway between Da Nang and Hoi An — five limestone hills with Buddhist caves, pagodas, and panoramic views. If you are not in a rush, ask your driver to stop here for 1-2 hours. Entry is 40,000d plus 15,000d for the elevator. The mountain temples and caves are atmospheric and the views from the top extend across the coastline in both directions. Best visited in the morning before the midday heat.

Our Recommendation

Best Overall

Hotel Shuttle (if available)

Check with your Hoi An hotel first — many offer free airport transfers, especially for stays of 3+ nights. This is the most hassle-free option: no app, no SIM card, no negotiation. A driver meets you at arrivals with your name on a sign and delivers you directly to your hotel. Always ask when booking your accommodation.

Best Alternative

Grab

If your hotel does not offer a shuttle, Grab is the next best option. Buy a SIM card at the airport, book a Grab car, and enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned ride for 250,000-350,000d. The fare is fixed upfront so there is no negotiation or meter anxiety. Available 24/7 including late-night arrivals.

Best Budget

Local Bus #1

For budget travelers who enjoy local experiences, the yellow bus #1 at 30,000d is unbeatable value. Note that it runs from Da Nang Bus Station (not the airport), so you will need to get there first. Best for travelers with light luggage and flexible timing. Not practical for airport arrivals with heavy bags.

Frequently Asked Questions

Da Nang to Hoi An is approximately 30 kilometres, taking 30-45 minutes by taxi or Grab depending on traffic. The route follows the coastal road south through a mix of beach resorts, local towns, and rice paddies. Da Nang Airport is slightly closer to Hoi An than Da Nang city centre. Traffic is generally light outside of rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM).
The local yellow bus #1 costs just 30,000₫ ($1.20 USD) and runs between Da Nang Bus Station and Hoi An Bus Station. However, it does not serve Da Nang Airport directly — you would need a short Grab ride to the bus station first. For airport arrivals, a Grab at 250,000-350,000₫ is the best balance of cost and convenience. If your hotel offers a free shuttle, that is the cheapest option of all.
Yes, Grab works perfectly from Da Nang Airport. Exit the terminal to the arrivals pickup area, open the Grab app, and set your Hoi An hotel as the destination. The fare will be shown upfront (typically 250,000-350,000₫ for a car). You will need a working internet connection — buy a SIM card at the airport (50,000-100,000₫ from Viettel or Mobifone) or connect to the airport Wi-Fi to book.
The road is relatively straightforward and mostly flat, but Vietnamese traffic can be dangerous and unpredictable. Only ride if you are an experienced motorbike rider comfortable with chaotic Asian traffic — trucks, buses, and other motorbikes share the road. Most travel insurance does not cover motorbike accidents without a valid Vietnamese licence. The scenic route is rewarding, but Grab is safer for most travelers.
The last yellow bus #1 from Da Nang Bus Station to Hoi An typically departs around 5:30 PM. If you arrive at Da Nang Airport after 5 PM, the bus is not a practical option. Use Grab or a pre-booked hotel transfer instead — both are available 24/7. For late-night arrivals, confirm your hotel transfer in advance as Grab availability can be lower after midnight.

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