From Da Nang to Hoi An, Grab or a taxi is the easiest option, costing about $12–$20. The local bus (route 01) takes about 1 hour and costs around $1.50. A shuttle bus or minivan is popular and costs roughly $5–$8. Private cars offer door-to-door service for about $15–$25. There is no train. The distance is about 30 km, and the drive lasts 40–60 minutes.
Hoi An is a different Vietnam — lantern-lit streets, mustard-yellow walls, and the slow rhythm of the Thu Bồn River. Getting there from Da Nang is short and simple, but the details matter. This guide breaks down every option — bus, shuttle, taxi, Grab, and private car — so you can pick the one that fits your budget and style.
🚐 Option 1: Local Bus (Route 01) — The Cheapest
The local bus (route 01) runs from Da Nang’s city centre to Hoi An’s bus station. It’s the cheapest option and a good choice if you’re on a tight budget and traveling light.
Cost: Around 30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD).
Where to catch it: The bus departs from Da Nang Central Bus Station. You can also catch it at the airport — look for the Bus 01 sign outside the terminal.
Where it drops you: Hoi An Bus Station is about 2 km from the Old Town. From there, you’ll need a taxi or Grab (~$2–$3 USD) to your hotel in the ancient town.
What to expect: The bus is basic — hard seats, no air conditioning in some cases, and it can get crowded. It stops frequently and takes about 1 hour.
⚠️ Note: Not ideal with large luggage. The bus station in Hoi An is a short walk from the Old Town, but carrying a heavy suitcase through the heat isn’t fun.
🚕 Option 2: Shuttle Bus or Minivan — The Most Popular
The shuttle bus or minivan is the most popular option for tourists. It’s a good balance of cost and convenience — cheaper than a taxi, but much more comfortable than the local bus.
Cost: Around $5–$8 USD per person one-way.
Where to catch it: Many shuttles depart from Da Nang Airport, My Khe Beach, or directly from your hotel. Most hotels in Da Nang can arrange a shuttle for you.
Where it drops you: Most shuttles drop you at Hoi An Bus Station or at a central point in Hoi An Old Town.
What to expect: A comfortable 12–16 seat minivan with air conditioning. The journey takes 40–60 minutes. You’ll be sharing the ride with other tourists.
Pro tip: Many shuttle companies offer direct transfers to your hotel in Hoi An for an extra $2–$3. It’s worth it — the Old Town’s narrow streets can be tricky to navigate with luggage.
📱 Option 3: Grab — The Easiest Option
Grab is the easiest and most reliable option for most travelers. Fixed price, no haggling, and you can pay by card or cash.
Cost: A GrabCar from Da Nang Airport to Hoi An costs around 350,000–400,000 VND (~$14–$16 USD). A GrabCar from Da Nang city centre costs 250,000–350,000 VND (~$10–$14 USD).
How to use it:
- Download the Grab app before you arrive.
- Set your pickup location.
- Enter “Hoi An” or your hotel name as the destination.
- The price is shown before you confirm — no surprises.
Pro tip: Grab is often cheaper than a metered taxi. If you’re at the airport, follow the signs to the Grab pick-up area. Your driver will message you through the app if they can’t find you.
🚗 Option 4: Metered Taxi — Simple but More Expensive
A metered taxi from Da Nang to Hoi An is straightforward — especially if you have luggage or are in a group.
Cost: Around 400,000–500,000 VND (~$16–$20 USD).
Reputable taxi companies in Da Nang:
- Mai Linh Taxi — green cabs, reliable, metered
- Vinasun Taxi — white cabs, reliable, metered
- Tiên Sa Taxi — local Da Nang company, reliable
How to avoid taxi scams:
- Ask for the meter before you get in.
- If the driver offers a flat rate, make sure it’s reasonable (400,000–500,000 VND is fair).
- Follow the route on Google Maps.
🚐 Option 5: Private Car — Door-to-Door Comfort
If you’re traveling with 2–4 people or want the most comfortable experience, hire a private car with a driver. It’s door-to-door service — from your Da Nang hotel or the airport directly to your Hoi An hotel.
Cost: Around $15–$25 USD for a sedan (up to 3 people). Larger vehicles (SUV, van) cost $25–$35 USD.
Where to book: Through Trip.com, GetYourGuide, or your hotel. Most hotels in Da Nang can arrange a private transfer.
Best for: Families, groups, or anyone with lots of luggage. It’s also a good option if you want to stop for photos along the way — the road passes through scenic countryside and along the coast.
📊 Comparison Table
| Option | Cost (USD) | Duration | Comfort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local Bus | $1.20 | 1 hour | Low | Budget travellers, light luggage |
| Shuttle Bus | $5–$8 | 40–60 min | Medium | Popular, cost-effective |
| Grab | $10–$16 | 40–60 min | High | Convenience, fixed price |
| Metered Taxi | $16–$20 | 40–60 min | High | Groups, lots of luggage |
| Private Car | $15–$25 | 40–60 min | Very High | Door-to-door, flexibility |
🛑 Common Mistakes
Taking the local bus with heavy luggage. The bus is crowded and has limited space. If you have more than a carry-on, take a shuttle or Grab.
Not confirming the drop-off point with the shuttle driver. Some shuttles drop you at Hoi An Bus Station, others at the Old Town. Confirm before you board.
Agreeing to a taxi flat rate without checking the meter. Some drivers will quote a flat rate that’s higher than the meter. Always ask for the meter first — if the driver refuses, find another taxi.
Forgetting to download the Grab app before arriving. Grab is cheaper than a taxi, but you need the app. Download it before you leave.
Not budgeting for a taxi from Hoi An bus station. The bus station is about 2 km from the Old Town. If you take the local bus, factor in an extra $2–$3 for a Grab to your hotel.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Da Nang from Hoi An? Thirty km, about a 40–60 minute drive.
What’s the cheapest way to get from Da Nang to Hoi An?
The local bus (route 01) — around $1.20 USD.
What’s the best way to get from Da Nang to Hoi An?
The shuttle bus is the most popular — it’s cheap, comfortable, and drops you near the Old Town. Grab is the easiest — fixed price, no haggling.
Is there a train from Da Nang to Hoi An? No — there is no train connecting Da Nang to Hoi An. Buses, shuttles, taxis, and private cars are the only options.
How much is a taxi from Da Nang to Hoi An?
Around $16–$20 USD for a metered taxi.
Can I take a motorbike from Da Nang to Hoi An?
Yes — the Hai Van Pass is one of the most scenic routes in Vietnam. If you’re experienced, the ride is ~1.5 hours and offers stunning coastal views. If you’re not experienced, take a car — the road is winding, and the Hai Van Pass is not for beginners.
💎 Final Verdict
The shuttle bus is the best value for most travelers — cheap, comfortable, and drops you near the Old Town. Grab is the easiest option — fixed price, no haggling, and door-to-door service. The local bus is the cheapest but not ideal with luggage. The private car is the most comfortable option, especially for groups.
Once you’ve arrived in Hoi An, the ancient town is waiting — lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, and some of the best food in Vietnam. If you’re planning a longer trip, check out my guides to Da Nang vs Nha Trang and Hanoi to Ha Long Bay for more travel inspiration.
🏨 Where to Stay & What to Pair It With
Once you’ve arrived in Hoi An, it’s time to book your accommodation. You’ll find everything from budget homestays to luxury resorts — check hotels in Hoi An to compare prices and read guest reviews. For a broader overview, I’ve put together guides to the best hotels in Da Nang, best hotels in Nha Trang, and best hotels in Hanoi if you’re continuing your journey.
For more coastal inspiration, check out my guides to Phu Quoc beach clubs and Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm for a cultural stop on the island.
