A trip from Vietnam's biggest city to the UNESCO-listed Hoi An offers an incredible journey along the coast, past rice fields and through charming towns and cities. But, it's not the quickest. There's about 900 kilometres between the two cities. If you want to stop and tour cities like Dalat, Nha Trang or Quy Nhon along the way, doing the journey by may be the best bet. If you're just visiting the two cities, it may be better to travel by air.

We break down all the ways you can travel from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam's south to Hoi An along its central coast to find the best option for your journey.

Cost: Expect flights to be about $50, or more with baggage

Flying from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang, which is the closest airport to Hoi An, is the best choice for those wanting a quick and convenient option. Several airlines run daily flights between the two cities and the flight only takes about 1.5 hours.

From Da Nang, travellers can easily grab a taxi or shuttle bus to Hoi An, which is 30 kilometres away.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City is where flights to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) in Da Nang take off. From Da Nang, travellers can easily get to Hoi An by taxi, shuttle bus, or private car.

Cost: Expect trains to be about $50 for a sleeper cabin (or less if you don't mind staying in just a chair), plus transport from Da Nang to Hoi An

Vietnam's extensive railway network connects major cities, including Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, which, like the airport, the nearest train station to Hoi An. Travelling by train offers a scenic trip through the countryside, with options for sleeper berths on overnight trains. The trip does take about 16-20 hours, so if you're just in Vietnam for a short trip, it's probably not the best option for you. However, it will provide lovely views along the way in comfort.

Ho Chi Minh City Railway Station (Saigon Railway Station) is the main departure point for trains headin north. The trip usually involves changin trains at Da Nang Railway Station, from where travellers can continue their trip to Hoi An by taxi or shuttle bus.

Cost: Expect VIP buses with reclining seats to be about $50.

Several bus companies run routes between Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An, offerin both day and night buses. The trip usually takes around 17-20 hours, dependin on traffic and route variations. While buses are a budget-friendly option, they might not be as comfy as other ways to travel.

Cost: Expect VIP buses with reclining seats to be about $200.

Another option is to hire a private car or taxi to take them straight from their accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An. This option gives you the flexibility to plan your own trip and stop at scenic spots or places of interest along the way.

The journey from Ho Chi Minh to Hoi An offers a unique blend of urban excitement and cultural charm. Whether you’re travelling by plane, train, bus, or car, each mode of transportation provides its own set of experiences and scenic views. As you plan your trip, consider making stops at captivating attractions like Mui Ne, Da Lat, and the historic city of Hue. These detours can enrich your journey with stunning landscapes, rich history, and local culture. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, book your transportation and accommodations in advance.

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Ready to explore Vietnam? Here’s all the basics you need to know before booking your trip.

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