Hue to Hoi An
Complete transport guide via the legendary Hai Van Pass covering private car, bus, motorbike, and train options with prices, scenic stops, and booking tips
Hue to Hoi An is one of Vietnam's most scenic journeys — 130 kilometres from the imperial capital to the lantern-lit ancient town, connected by the legendary Hai Van Pass. Whether you choose a private car with stops at Lang Co Beach and the misty summit, a budget-friendly tourist bus, a thrilling motorbike ride over one of the world's great coast roads, or the scenic Reunification Express train, here is everything you need to know to plan the journey and choose the right option.
Quick Comparison
| Transport | Time | Cost | Comfort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Car (Hai Van Pass) | 3-4 hours | 1,500,000 - 2,000,000₫ | High | Scenic experience |
| Tourist Bus | 3-4 hours | 120,000 - 250,000₫ | Medium | Budget travelers |
| Motorbike / Easy Rider | 3-4 hours | 150,000 - 800,000₫ | Medium | Adventurous travelers |
| Train + Grab | 3.5-4.5 hours | 320,000 - 650,000₫ | Medium-High | Rail enthusiasts |
4 Ways to Get from Hue to Hoi An
Private Car via Hai Van Pass
3-4 hours (with stops)1,500,000 - 2,000,000₫Hotel bookings, local agencies, Klook
The private car over the Hai Van Pass is the most rewarding way to travel between Hue and Hoi An — and one of Vietnam's most spectacular journeys. The Hai Van Pass (Sea Cloud Pass) is a dramatic mountain road that climbs 500 metres above the coast, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean, beaches, and misty mountains. This route was famously called the best coast road in the world by Top Gear. The journey includes stops at Lang Co Beach, the Hai Van Pass summit, and optionally the Marble Mountains near Da Nang.
Pros
- +The Hai Van Pass is one of Vietnam's most spectacular scenic drives — the highlight of any central Vietnam trip
- +Multiple stops included: Lang Co Beach (stunning crescent bay), Hai Van Pass summit (panoramic views), optional Marble Mountains
- +Door-to-door service from your Hue hotel to your Hoi An accommodation — no transfers or connections needed
- +Can be shared between 2-4 travelers to split the cost — ask your hotel to arrange shared transfers
Cons
- -The most expensive option per vehicle at 1,500,000-2,000,000₫ — though splitting between travelers brings it to 500,000-700,000₫ each
- -The Hai Van Pass road is winding and steep — those prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand
- -Weather-dependent: clouds and fog can obscure the views at the summit, especially in the rainy season (Sep-Jan)
- -Takes 3-4 hours with stops versus 3 hours direct by bus — you need to dedicate a half day to this journey
Tourist Bus
3-4 hours120,000 - 250,000₫Sinh Tourist, Hue Tourist, Camel Travel
Tourist buses (also called open-tour buses) run daily between Hue and Hoi An, operated by established companies like Sinh Tourist and Hue Tourist. These are air-conditioned coaches designed for backpackers and budget travelers. Most take the highway via the Hai Van Tunnel rather than the scenic Hai Van Pass, so the views are less spectacular. The journey is straightforward and comfortable, with a possible stop in Da Nang.
Pros
- +Very affordable at 120,000-250,000₫ ($5-10 USD) — the best budget option for the Hue-Hoi An route
- +Reliable, air-conditioned coaches operated by established companies with good safety records
- +Multiple daily departures (typically 8 AM and 1 PM) — convenient scheduling for most itineraries
- +Drop-off in or near Hoi An Ancient Town — no onward transfer needed from a bus station
Cons
- -Most buses take the highway tunnel, not the scenic Hai Van Pass — you miss the best views
- -Fixed departure times with no flexibility for stops — you cannot pause at Lang Co Beach or viewpoints
- -Can be crowded during peak season (December-March) — book at least a day ahead
- -Journey times can vary: 3 hours direct, but some services stop in Da Nang adding 30-60 minutes
Motorbike via Hai Van Pass
3-4 hours150,000 - 250,000₫/day rentalSelf-drive rental, Easy Rider tours
Riding a motorbike over the Hai Van Pass is one of Vietnam's most iconic travel experiences — the winding mountain road with ocean views at every turn, the freedom to stop wherever you want, and the thrill of conquering one of Southeast Asia's great driving roads. The route climbs from sea level to 500 metres, crosses the summit, and descends through forests to the coast below. For experienced riders, this is unforgettable. For those less confident, Easy Rider tours (riding as a passenger with a local guide-driver) offer the same experience without the stress.
Pros
- +The ultimate Hai Van Pass experience — complete freedom to stop at every viewpoint, beach, and photo opportunity
- +Easy Rider tours let you ride pillion with an experienced local guide who doubles as a storyteller and historian
- +Very affordable: 150,000-250,000₫ for a day's motorbike rental, or 500,000-800,000₫ for an Easy Rider tour
- +You can stop at Lang Co Beach for a swim, explore abandoned French fortifications at the summit, and detour to hidden viewpoints
Cons
- -The Hai Van Pass road is winding, steep, and shared with trucks and buses — experienced riders only for self-drive
- -Most travel insurance does not cover motorbike accidents without a valid Vietnamese driving licence
- -Weather is unpredictable at the summit — fog, rain, and wind can make the road dangerous and obscure views
- -Not suitable for travelers with heavy luggage — send bags ahead by bus or hotel transfer if self-riding
Train to Da Nang + Transfer
2.5 hours train + 45 min transfer70,000 - 300,000₫ (train) + 250,000 - 350,000₫ (Grab)Vietnam Railways (DSVN)
The Reunification Express train from Hue to Da Nang is a 2.5-hour scenic journey that crosses the Hai Van Pass on a separate railway line — offering beautiful coastal views from the comfort of an air-conditioned carriage. From Da Nang station, take a Grab to Hoi An (30km, 30-45 minutes, 250,000-350,000₫). This two-step option combines the scenic railway experience with an affordable transfer to Hoi An.
Pros
- +The train crosses the Hai Van Pass on its own railway line with stunning ocean views — bring a window seat camera
- +Comfortable, air-conditioned carriages with more legroom than a bus — a relaxing way to travel
- +Affordable: soft seat from 70,000₫, hard seat from 50,000₫ — much cheaper than a private car
- +A genuine Vietnamese travel experience — the Reunification Express is one of Asia's legendary railways
Cons
- -Requires a two-step journey: train to Da Nang, then Grab or taxi to Hoi An — adds complexity and time
- -Train schedule is fixed with limited departures — you cannot choose your exact departure time
- -Da Nang station is in the city centre, not at the airport — the Grab to Hoi An takes 30-45 minutes from the station
- -Total journey time (train + transfer + waiting) is 3.5-4.5 hours — longer than a direct bus or car
The Hai Van Pass Experience
One of the most scenic roads in the world — here is what to expect and where to stop
Lang Co Beach
A stunning crescent bay at the foot of the Hai Van Pass on the Hue side. White sand, calm turquoise water, and a backdrop of mountains create one of Vietnam's most beautiful beach scenes. Stop for photos, a quick swim, or a fresh seafood lunch at one of the simple beachfront restaurants. The views from the road above Lang Co, looking down at the bay, are some of the best on the entire route.
Hai Van Pass Summit
The summit of the Hai Van Pass sits at approximately 500 metres above sea level, marked by an old French fortification and Vietnamese military bunker. On clear days, the panoramic views of the coastline stretching in both directions are breathtaking. The name means Sea Cloud Pass — clouds often roll through at the summit, creating a dramatic and atmospheric scene. Stop for 15-20 minutes for photos and to explore the abandoned bunkers.
Marble Mountains
Located near Da Nang, about 15km before Hoi An, the Marble Mountains are five limestone hills with Buddhist caves, pagodas, and panoramic views from the summit. If you have time, a 1-2 hour stop adds a wonderful dimension to the journey. Entry is 40,000d plus 15,000d for the elevator. The caves are cool and atmospheric, and the views from the top extend across the coast.
Weather at the Summit
The Hai Van Pass creates its own weather. Even on sunny days at sea level, the summit can be cloudy, misty, or rainy. The pass acts as a climate barrier between the north and south — Hue's weather can be completely different from Da Nang's. Morning departures (8-9 AM) tend to have clearer conditions at the summit. During rainy season (Sep-Jan), fog is common but can add dramatic atmosphere to photos.
What to Do First in Hoi An
Just arrived from Hue? Here is how to make the most of your first afternoon and evening.
Ancient Town First Walk
Drop your bags at your hotel and head straight to the Ancient Town. Walk along the Thu Bon River, cross the Japanese Covered Bridge, and wander through the narrow lanes of heritage houses and colourful assembly halls. Buy your Ancient Town entrance ticket (120,000d) which covers 5 heritage sites. The afternoon light is beautiful for photography. Stop at a tailor shop to start the fitting process if custom clothing is on your list.
Lantern-Lit Dinner
As darkness falls, the Ancient Town transforms — hundreds of silk lanterns illuminate the streets in warm, colourful light. Find a riverside restaurant for your first Hoi An meal. Try cao lau (the town's signature noodle dish, 40,000-60,000d) or white rose dumplings. Walk to the night market on Nguyen Hoang Street for street food, souvenirs, and the magical atmosphere of Hoi An after dark. Release a paper lantern on the river (10,000d).
Market & Cooking Class
Start your first full day at the Central Market for a sensory breakfast experience — banh mi stalls, fresh produce, and local coffee. Book a morning cooking class (500,000-800,000d) that includes a market tour followed by hands-on cooking in a riverside kitchen. Alternatively, rent a bicycle (30,000-50,000d/day) and pedal to Tra Que Vegetable Village or An Bang Beach. Hoi An is best explored at a gentle pace.
Our Recommendation
Private Car via Hai Van Pass
For most travelers, the private car over the Hai Van Pass is the clear winner. The scenery is world-class, the stops at Lang Co Beach and the summit are memorable, and the door-to-door convenience is unbeatable. Split between 2-4 travelers, the cost drops to 500,000-700,000d per person — excellent value for one of Vietnam's best experiences. Book through your hotel.
Easy Rider Tour
For the ultimate Hai Van Pass experience, book an Easy Rider tour. Riding pillion with a local guide who knows every viewpoint, every story, and every food stop along the route is one of central Vietnam's top experiences. At 500,000-800,000d per person, it is remarkable value for a full-day guided adventure. Not recommended if you are uncomfortable on motorbikes.
Tourist Bus
At 120,000-250,000d, the tourist bus is the most affordable option. It is comfortable, reliable, and gets you from Hue to Hoi An in 3-4 hours. The trade-off is taking the tunnel route rather than the scenic Hai Van Pass. If budget is the priority and you have seen the pass from photos, the bus does the job perfectly well. Book through Sinh Tourist.
Frequently Asked Questions
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