If you are planning a trip to Central Vietnam, the journey from Da Nang to Hoi An is likely the most important 30 kilometers you will travel. It connects the dynamic, modern energy of the city with the ancient, lantern-lit charm of the Old Town. For us locals, this route is a daily commute, but for visitors, the sheer number of transport options can be overwhelming—especially with recent changes to the public bus system in 2026.
Forget what you might have read in old guidebooks about the "yellow bus number 1." That system has changed. Today, you have smarter, faster, and more comfortable choices ranging from the eco-friendly Xanh SM electric taxis to affordable shuttle vans and adventurous motorbike rides along the coast.
Whether you are a solo backpacker watching every penny, a family needing a safe and spacious private car, or a couple looking for a romantic scooter ride, there is a perfect mode of transport for you. The key is knowing which one offers the best value and avoids the common tourist traps.
In this guide, I will break down the 5 best ways to travel from Da Nang to Hoi An, updated with 2026 prices and insider tips. Think of this as a roadmap drawn by a local friend who wants you to save money and travel in style. Let’s get moving!
What is the Distance and Travel Time between Da Nang and Hoi An?
First, let's get the geography straight. The distance is short—only about 30km (18 miles).
Depending on your vehicle and the time of day, the trip usually takes between 45 to 60 minutes.
Is the Coastal Route Better than the Inland Route?
Absolutely. There are two main ways to get there:
The Inland Route (QL1A/Le Van Hien): This is the old highway. It is dusty, full of large trucks, and visually boring.
The Coastal Route (Vo Nguyen Giap/Truong Sa): This is the "5-star road." It runs parallel to the beach, passing luxury resorts like the Hyatt and Pullman. The road is wide, paved beautifully, and the air is fresh.
Local Insight (DanangLocals): Always tell your driver to take the "sea road" (duong bien). It costs the same but the view is infinitely better.
What are the 5 Best Transport Options Ranked by Budget?
We have ranked these from the cheapest option to the most comfortable to help you decide easily.
Option 1: The Public Bus & Local Bus (Cheapest)
Is the Yellow Bus #1 Still Operating in 2026?
No. This is the most common mistake tourists make. The famous yellow "DanaBus #1" that used to run for 20,000 VND has been permanently suspended.
It has been replaced by the LK-02 Bus Line (Da Nang - Hoi An).
How to Catch the Local Bus LK-02?
This is a no-frills option. It is cheap, but be prepared for no AC (or weak AC) and a crowded ride.
Fare: Approx. 35,000 - 40,000 VND.
Route: Da Nang Central Bus Station -> Le Duan -> Viet Han University -> Hoi An Bus Station.
Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes, from 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
Local Insight (DanangLocals): The bus does not drop you inside Hoi An Ancient Town. It drops you at the station about 2km away. You will need to walk or take a motorbike taxi (Xe Om) to your hotel.
PUBLIC SERVICE: DanaBus (Da Nang Subsidized Bus)
Operations Office: 493 Tran Cao Van, Thanh Khe District.
Support Hotline & Lost & Found: (+84) 02363 711 468
Website for Routes: danangbus.vn
Recommended App: BusMap (Download on iOS/Android for real-time tracking).
Fares: Single Ticket: 6,000 VND/ride (Flat rate within city); LK-02 route varies by distance.
Option 2: Shared Tourist Shuttle (Best for Solo Travelers)
Why Choose a Shared Shuttle over a Public Bus?
If you are traveling alone, this is the "sweet spot." For about 130,000 - 150,000 VND, you get a seat in a modern minivan (Ford Transit) with strong AC. The best part? They pick you up at the airport or your hotel and drop you closer to the Ancient Town.
Recommended Shuttle Operators
There are several reputable companies running this route daily.
BOOKING INFO: Hoi An Express / Barri Ann Travel
Frequency: Every hour from 07:00 AM to 09:00 PM.
Booking: You can book via Klook, their website, or ask your hotel receptionist.
Tip: Book at least 12 hours in advance to guarantee a seat.
Option 3: Motorbike Rental (Best for Adventure)
What is the Cost of Renting a Motorbike in Da Nang?
As mentioned in our Transportation Guide, renting a bike costs 120,000 - 150,000 VND/day.
Fuel cost: ~30,000 VND for the trip to Hoi An.
One-Way Rental: Some shops allow you to rent in Da Nang and return in Hoi An for an extra fee (usually ~100,000 VND for transport service).
Is it Safe for Tourists to Drive to Hoi An?
Yes, especially if you take the coastal road. It is a straight line with very few turns.
Requirement: You need an IDP (1968 Vienna Convention) or a Vietnamese license for bikes over 50cc.
Safety: Wear a helmet. Do not speed. The speed limit is often 60km/h.
RECOMMENDED RENTAL: The Motorbike Station (or Song Han Motorbike)
Address: 196/41 Tran Cao Van, Thanh Khe District, Da Nang (Near the Train Station, delivery available).
Hotline/Zalo: (+84) 922 771 171
Opening Hours: 07:00 AM – 09:00 PM
Price: Semi-auto ~100k-120k VND/day; Scooter ~130k-160k VND/day.
Highlights: Includes high-quality 3/4 helmets, free raincoats, and 24/7 breakdown support. Bikes are serviced after every rental.
Option 4: Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab & Xanh SM) (Most Convenient)
How to Book an Electric Taxi (Xanh SM) in Vietnam?
In 2026, the Xanh SM (Green SM) taxis have become the locals' favorite. These are VinFast electric cars (cyan blue).
Experience: Silent engine, no gasoline smell, spacious, and very polite drivers.
How to book: Download the "Xanh SM" app (works like Grab).
How Much Does a Grab/Taxi Cost One-Way?
Price: 250,000 VND - 350,000 VND (depending on demand).
Pros: Instant booking, door-to-door, trackable route.
Cons: Price can surge during rain or rush hour (5 PM - 6 PM).
Option 5: Private Car Charter (Best for Families/Comfort)
What are the Benefits of Booking a Private Car?
If you are a group of 3 or more, or a family with kids/luggage, a Private Car is actually cheaper than Grab.
Price: Fixed rate usually around 300,000 VND - 350,000 VND (4-seater).
Flexibility: You choose the time. The driver waits for you at the arrival gate with your name on a sign. No waiting, no stress.
Car Condition: Usually newer sedans or SUVs (Toyota Vios, Innova, Xpander).
SERVICE RECOMMENDATION: Da Nang Private Car
Booking: Can be done via WhatsApp or Hotel Concierge.
Typical Price: 300k VND (4 seater) / 400k VND (7 seater).
Note: Confirm the price includes toll fees (usually it does).
Which Mode of Transport is Right for You?
Still undecided? Here is a quick comparison to help you choose the best fit for your style and wallet.
Comparison Table: Budget vs. Comfort vs. Adventure
| Transport Mode | Est. Cost (VND) | Comfort | Travel Time | Best For... |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local Bus (LK-02) | 35k - 40k | Low (No AC/Crowded) | 80 mins | Ultra-budget backpackers |
| Tourist Shuttle | 130k - 150k | Medium (Shared AC) | 60 mins | Solo travelers |
| Motorbike | 120k + Fuel | Adventure | 50 mins | Couples / Explorers |
| Grab / Xanh SM | 250k - 350k | High (Private) | 45 mins | Quick, on-demand trips |
| Private Car | 300k - 350k | Highest | 45 mins | Families & Groups |
Can You Stop at Marble Mountains on the Way?
This is the biggest advantage of choosing a Private Car or Motorbike. The Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son) are located exactly halfway between Da Nang and Hoi An.
How to Arrange a Stopover with a Private Car?
Instead of booking a separate tour to Marble Mountains (which costs time and money), simply ask your Private Car driver to stop there.
How it works: You drive from Da Nang -> Stop at Marble Mountains (Driver waits 1-1.5 hours) -> Continue to Hoi An.
Cost: Drivers typically charge a small extra fee of 70,000 - 100,000 VND for the waiting time. This is much cheaper than booking two separate taxi rides!
Local Insight (DanangLocals): If you take the bus or shuttle, you cannot do this easily as you would have to haul your luggage up the mountain or find a place to store it.
Important Tips for the Return Trip (Hoi An to Da Nang)
Getting to Hoi An is easy, but getting back late at night can be tricky.
Is it Hard to Book a Grab in Hoi An Late at Night?
Yes. After 9:30 PM, the number of Grab/Taxi drivers in Hoi An drops significantly. You might see "High Fare" warnings or "No Driver Found."
Solution: If you plan to stay in Hoi An for the lanterns and night market, pre-book a Private Car for the return trip. The driver will agree on a pickup time and location, ensuring you aren't stranded.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do Da Nang taxi drivers speak English?
Most younger drivers (especially Xanh SM) speak basic English. However, many older traditional taxi drivers do not. It is best to have your hotel address written down or shown on Google Maps.
2. Can I take luggage on the Local Bus LK-02?
Technically yes, but space is very limited. If you have large suitcases, the driver may refuse entry or charge you for an extra seat. If you have big bags, take a Shuttle or Private Car.
3. Is the road to Hoi An flooded?
Only during the peak rainy season (October - November). The coastal road rarely floods, but the roads inside Hoi An Ancient Town often flood. Check the weather forecast on DanangLocals.com before you go.
Getting from Da Nang to Hoi An is part of the central Vietnam experience. Whether you choose the wind-in-your-hair freedom of a motorbike or the air-conditioned comfort of a private car, the journey is short and scenic.
If you need help booking a reliable private car or want to know more about the stops along the way, drop us a message!
Would you like me to create a detailed "1-Day Itinerary: Da Nang to Hoi An with Marble Mountains Stopover" for you?
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