For a seamless journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An, the flight to Da Nang followed by a short transfer is the fastest and most convenient option. Other options include scenic train journeys, budget-friendly sleeper buses, and private car transfers. Below are the top 5+ transportation options to help you plan your trip

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How Far is Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An Vietnam?

The distance from Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) to Hoi An Vietnam is about 850-900 km in a straight line. This journey crosses diverse terrains, from the flat Mekong Delta plains to the mountainous Central Highlands and coastal areas, making it a picturesque route for those opting for land travel..

To visualize the route, here’s a map showing the path from Ho Chi Minh City through key stops like Nha Trang and Quy Nhon to Hoi An.

Best Ways to Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An Vietnam

Choosing the right transportation to Hoi An from Ho Chi minh city depends on your priorities—speed, cost, comfort, or adventure. Below, we compare the top options in a handy table for quick reference, followed by detailed breakdowns.

Transportation Option	Estimated Time	Approximate Cost (VND)	Pros	Cons
Plane	2-3 hours total	500,000 – 2,000,000 (flight) + 300,000 transfer	Fastest, comfortable	Higher cost, no direct flight to Hoi An
Train	16-20 hours + 1 hour transfer	600,000 – 1,200,000 (train) + 200,000 transfer	Scenic views, relaxing	Long duration, limited schedules
Bus	18-22 hours	500,000 – 700,000	Budget-friendly, direct options	Potential discomfort, road fatigue
Private Car	16-20 hours	5,000,000+ (rental, fuel, driver)	Flexible, customizable stops	Expensive, driving challenges
Motorbike	16-20 hours (multi-day suggested)	1,000,000 – 2,000,000 (rental + fuel)	Adventurous, immersive	Risky, weather-dependent

These options cater to different traveler types, from families seeking comfort to backpackers on a budget.

Hoi An from Ho Chi Minh by Plane (Fastest Option)

Flying is the most efficient way to cover the distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An Vietnam, especially if time is limited. You’ll fly from Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang International Airport, a quick 1-1.5 hour flight, then transfer the remaining 30-45 km to Hoi An.

Major airlines include Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways, with multiple daily flights. One-way tickets start at around 500,000 VND for budget carriers like VietJet and can go up to 2,000,000 VND for premium options with Vietnam Airlines. Add 300,000-500,000 VND for a taxi or Grab ride to Hoi An, or opt for the economical public bus at 20,000 VND.

Pros: Saves time, modern amenities like in-flight WiFi on some carriers, and ideal for those with luggage.

Cons: Airport security lines, potential delays due to weather, and extra transfer costs.

Tips: Book via apps like Skyscanner or directly on airline sites for deals—early morning or late evening flights are often cheaper. Pack light to avoid baggage fees, and consider travel insurance for peace of mind.

Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An by Train (Scenic and Relaxed)

Traveling to Hoi An from Ho Chi Minh by train offers stunning views of Vietnam’s landscapes, typically involving a 16-20 hour ride to Da Nang Station followed by a 1-hour transfer to Hoi An. Vietnam provides two key train types: standard Vietnam Railways for budget travel and luxury options like Sjourney for premium experiences. Here’s a breakdown, with emphasis on the indulgent Sjourney.

Standard Train (Vietnam Railways)

The Reunification Express (SE series) from Saigon Station to Da Nang offers authentic travel with soft seats or sleeper berths. Costs: 600,000-1,200,000 VND; add 100,000-300,000 VND for transfer to Hoi An.

Pros: Affordable, scenic coastal views, onboard meals.

Cons: Long duration, shared cabins.

Tips: Book via 12Go.asia; choose overnight for rest.

Luxury Train (Sjourney – Luxury Adventure)

Elevate your journey with Sjourney by Vietnam Luxury Express, Vietnam’s first luxury train for up to 12 guests. This 3-day tour from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi includes a Day 2 stop in Da Nang/Hoi An for excursions to the UNESCO-listed ancient town.

Prices (2025-2026): $3,890/adult, $2,918/child (all-inclusive: meals, drinks, activities).

Itinerary Overview:

Day 1: Depart Saigon, enjoy coastal views, gourmet lunch/dinner.
Day 2: Hoi An excursion (market, assembly hall, Japanese Bridge, local lunch); evening onboard.
Day 3: Northern scenery, arrive Hanoi.

Amenities: Private cabins (double/twin, en-suite baths, AC, minibar), lounge/bar, Wi-Fi, fine dining with Vietnamese/international cuisine, complimentary beverages.

Pros: Exclusive, cultural immersion, ultimate comfort.

Cons: Higher cost, limited dates

Tips: Book by contact Mobile/Whatsapp/Zalo +84-975-119-466 for custom Hoi An focus.

Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An by Bus (Budget-Friendly)

Buses are a top choice for cost-conscious travelers heading from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An Vietnam. Direct sleeper buses depart from Mien Dong Bus Station or operators like FUTA Bus Lines, Mai Linh, or Hoang Long, covering the 18-22 hour journey with AC, WiFi, and reclining beds.

Costs average 500,000-700,000 VND for a VIP sleeper ticket, making it one of the cheapest options. Some buses go directly to Hoi An, eliminating transfers.

Pros: Affordable, frequent departures, and meal stops en route.

Cons: Bumpy roads, limited legroom, and overnight travel can be tiring.

Tips: Compare reviews on Busbud or Vexere.com, bring earplugs and a neck pillow, and choose reputable companies for safety.

Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An by Private Car (Flexible and Private)

Hiring a private car with a driver offers ultimate flexibility for the 16-20 hour drive via QL1A highway. Rent from local agencies or apps like Turo equivalents, with costs starting at 5,000,000 VND including fuel, tolls, and driver.

Pros: Stop at attractions like beaches in Nha Trang or historical sites in Hue.

Cons: High expense and potential driver fatigue.

Tips: Ensure an international driving permit if self-driving, plan rest stops, and use GPS apps like Google Maps.

Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An by Motorbike (Adventurous Route)

For thrill-seekers, renting a motorbike (from Tigit or local shops) and riding the coastal roads is an epic multi-day adventure.

Costs: 1,000,000-2,000,000 VND for rental and fuel.

Pros: Freedom to explore hidden gems like Hai Van Pass.

Cons: High risk from traffic and weather. Tips: Wear helmets, get insurance, and break the trip into 2-3 days.

From Da Nang to Hoi An: Quick Transfer Options

Many routes land you in Da Nang first, so here’s how to cover the final 30-45 km:

By Taxi/Grab: 30-45 min, 300,000-500,000 VND. Convenient and door-to-door.
By Bus: 45-60 min, 20,000-50,000 VND (yellow bus #1 from Da Nang Airport/Station).
By Motorbike: 30 min, rental 100,000 VND/day. Fun for short hops.
By Limousine/Private Van: 45 min, 100,000-200,000 VND. Comfortable for groups.

5+ Essential Tips for Your Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An Vietnam Trip

Best Time to Travel: Dry season (February-May, August-November) avoids monsoons; November 2025 offers mild weather.
Budget Planning: Total costs: Air ~1,000,000 VND; Bus ~600,000 VND. Factor in food (100,000 VND/day) and accommodation.
Packing Essentials: Lightweight clothes, rain gear, power adapters
Safety Advice: Follow road rules, avoid scams, get vaccinations; use apps like Grab for rides.
Sustainable Travel: Choose trains over flights to reduce carbon; support local eco-tours in Hoi An.
Hoi An Highlights: Don’t miss lantern-lit streets, tailoring shops, and beaches—extend your stay!

>>> Discover more: Hoi An Winter: Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting in the Rainy Season

FAQs About Ho Chi Minh City To Hoi An

How long does it take to Hoi An from Ho Chi Minh City?

It usually takes about 2–3 hours by plane, including the transfer from Da Nang Airport to Hoi An, which is around 30 km away. If you choose to travel by land, such as by bus or train, the journey can take between 16 and 22 hours, depending on traffic and route conditions.

What’s the cheapest way to go from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An, Vietnam?

The cheapest option is taking a sleeper bus, which costs around 500,000–700,000 VND. While it’s an economical choice, it can be long and tiring, so it’s best suited for travelers on a tight budget.

Is it safe to travel by motorbike from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An?

Yes, it’s generally safe if you’re experienced and well-prepared. Make sure to wear a quality helmet, have travel insurance, and check your motorbike carefully before starting the trip.

What airlines fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang?

Several airlines operate daily flights on this route, including Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways. These flights are frequent, affordable, and the fastest way to reach Hoi An via Da Nang.

Conclusion

Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An Vietnam offers diverse options—from fast flights and scenic train rides to budget-friendly buses and adventurous motorbike routes. Whether you value comfort, cost, or exploration, there’s a perfect way to fit your travel style. For a luxurious and unforgettable experience, explore the SJourney Luxury Train and make your Vietnam journey truly exceptional. Contact Us to plan your trip with SJourney today!

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SJourney

Hotline (Phone/whatsapp): +84-975-119-466

Email: inquiry@vietnamluxuryexpress.com

Head office: No. 15/52 Giang Van Minh, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

Travel Story Team

The Travel Story Team is the editorial group behind Vietnam Luxury Express – passionate storytellers and travel enthusiasts dedicated to sharing the art of luxury train journeys across Vietnam.