5 Easy and Best Ways to Get from Hanoi to Hoi An, Vietnam

Hanoi is a popular entry point for tours of Vietnam. Its historic landmarks and rich history are a great introduction to the unique culture of the country. Hanoi also offers convenient connections to the rest of the country, including the charming city of Hoi An.

There are many options for traveling between the two historic cities that cater to preferences ranging from speed to scenic journeys. This guide outlines the five best ways to travel between Hanoi and Hoi An, helping you decide which suits your itinerary.

1. The Distance from Hanoi to Hoi An: 798 Kilometers

Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, is the northern hub for culture, finance and government. Sitting on the banks of the Red River, it’s around 120 km inland from the Gulf of Tonkin, with easy access to popular destinations like Ha Long Bay and the mountainous Sapa region.

The picturesque surrounding landscapes of the Red River Delta and Hanoi’s status as a political, cultural, and economic hub make the city a popular starting point for planning a Vietnam tour.

Hoi An is 798 km to the south, on the eastern coastline of central Vietnam. It has a long history as an important trading port connecting merchants from China, Japan, and Europe during the 15th to 19th centuries. Today, it is renowned for its well-preserved ancient town and a cultural gem of the central region.

Map of Hanoi to Hoi An.

2. Flights from Hanoi to Hoi An: The Best & Fastest Way Only Takes 2 Hours

Air travel is the fastest and most convenient choice for getting to Hoi An from Hanoi. Direct flights can take you to Da Nang International Airport, 30 km from Hoi An.

There are around 20 daily connections between Hanoi and Da Nang, flown by airlines including Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways. The short flight takes only 1 hour and 20 minutes, and tickets are available for around 50 USD.

Selected Flights from Hanoi to Da Nang

After landing in Da Nang, you can reach Hoi An by taxi, private car, or shuttle bus in approximately 45 minutes. A one-way taxi trip costs 350,000-430,000 VND (14-17 USD).

8 Days Hanoi, Hoi An, and Saigon Tour

Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise - Hoi An - Saigon

3. Trains from Hanoi to Hoi An: A Way to Enjoy Stunning Countryside

Trains are a scenic way to travel from Hanoi to Hoi An, which offers an authentic local experience. The Reunification Express runs daily trains from Hanoi to Da Nang Train Station, only around 30 km from Hoi An.

This train journey is a highlight for travelers who wish to enjoy Vietnam's stunning countryside, lush rice paddies, and dramatic coastline. The train route takes between 16.5 and 17.5 hours.

Overnight sleeper trains with comfortable onboard accommodations are a great way to make the journey and arrive well-rested to enjoy a Hoi An tour. Taxis from Da Nang Train Station to Hoi An cost 15-20 USD, and the trip can be made in 45-60 minutes.

Hanoi to Da Nang Trains Schedule:

Overnight on the train in Vietnam.

4. Bus from Hanoi to Hoi An: Cheapest and Non-stop Way from $18

For traveling to Vietnam on a budget, sleeper buses provide a direct and economical way to travel from Hanoi to Hoi An. Several bus operators, such as Sinh Tourist, Queen Café, and Hung Thanh, offer non-stop routes. The trip takes 14-17 hours, with ticket prices from 20-40 USD.

These buses are equipped with reclining seats or sleeping berths and usually include Wi-Fi and air conditioning. Along the way, you can enjoy scenic views of the local countryside and still arrive well-rested to continue your tour.

Hanoi to Hoi An Bus Schedule

Overnight on a bus in Vietnam.

5. Drive from Hanoi to Hoi An: Most Flexible Way to Get Through North-Central Vietnam

Driving from Hanoi to Hoi An is a flexible and adventurous option that allows you to explore the landscapes of Vietnam at your own pace. The distance can be covered by 13-14 hours of driving, but it can be transformed into a multi-day trip to take advantage of the must-see locations along the way.

The first site worth stopping at is the beautiful Ninh Binh. Known as “Halong Bay on land” for its karst landscapes and tranquil waterways, it takes around two hours to reach.

Then, drive along the coast to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, around 40 km from Ninh Binh. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for the stunning beauty of its caves and forests. It’s a 6.5-hour drive but also takes you near the Vinh Moc Tunnels, an important site from the Vietnam War.

Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam.

Next is the imperial city of Hue. The former capital is another 4-hour drive down the coast and home to sites like the Imperial Citadel and Royal Tombs.

Da Nang is the next major stop. It is one of the most important cities in central Vietnam and a place to find beautiful beaches and natural sites like the Marble Mountains. From Da Nang, you’re only 45 minutes from Hoi An.

14 Days Highlights of Vietnam from North to South

Hanoi – Sapa - Halong Bay – Hue – Hoi An – Saigon – Can Tho – Phu Quoc

6. Motorbike from Hanoi to Hoi An: Unique and Adventurous Journey

For even more adventure, riding a motorbike from Hanoi to Hoi An is an intimate and close-up experience of the Vietnamese countryside. Motorbike rentals cost from 15-30 USD per day on a trip that usually takes between 6-10 days.

The cross-country tour quickly leaves the busy streets of Hanoi to travel through Ninh Binh and then along the coast to Hoi An.

Vietnam Hai Van Pass Motorcycle Ride.

Stops include destinations like the coastal city of Dong Hoi, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Hue, and visiting ethnic minority villages. Guided Vietnam motorbike tours and fully independent travel are both available for an unforgettable experience.

16 Day Vietnam Coastline Motorbike Tour

Saigon - Bao Loc - Da Lat - Nha Trang - Quy Nhon - Hoi An - Hue - Khe Sanh - Phong Nha - Tan Ky - Cuc Phuong - Mai Chau - Hanoi

7. Hoi An Is Worth Visiting for Historic Landmarks and Charm

Hoi An is a special destination that is well worth visiting on any Vietnam tour. The well-preserved ancient town maintains the atmosphere of an old trading port. The narrow alleys, traditional wooden houses, and colorful lanterns have a quaint charm unique to the city.

When exploring things to do in Hoi An, you can wander the streets of the ancient town and see sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge and Tan Ky House. Visit the Night Market in the evening to try the delicious street food, and take a cycling tour of the countryside during the day.

For a real treat, visit Hoi An during the monthly lantern festival. Held during the full moon of each month, the streets are illuminated with the soft, colorful glow of thousands of paper lanterns.

The streets of Hoi An, Vietnam are full of lanterns.

8. Best Time to Visit Hoi An from Hanoi: February to August

Choose the dry season from February to August for the best weather in Hoi An. You’ll find mild weather, calm seas, and little rain. May to August are prized months for travelers, with peak temperatures around 30°C and great conditions for outdoor activities.

Be aware, though, that summer is a busy time. With schools on holiday, local families flock to popular destinations like Hoi An, so make sure to make your travel arrangements early.

Vietnam Hoi An travel.

Heavy rains with a risk of typhoons and flooding are the biggest downsides of the wet season. The off-peak season is a lot cheaper for traveling, but plans can get interrupted by unpredictable weather.

Read more about the Best and worst times to visit Vietnam.

10 Days Central Vietnam Beach Relaxing & Culinary Tour

Da Nang - Hue - Hoi An - Nha Trang - Mui Ne - Da Lat - Da Nang

9. Most Recommended Tour Itineraries from Hanoi to Hoi An

One of the best ways to experience Hanoi to Hoi An is on an 8-day tour in Vietnam from north to south. Start in Hanoi, seeing the highlights, including Tran Quoc Pagoda and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

With two days in the capital, there’s time to cycle through the streets of the Old Quarter and try some of the best street food in the country. Head to Halong Bay for an overnight cruise on the emerald waters. See the towering limestone karsts of the natural wonder and visit pristine beaches.

Halong Bay Cruise in Vietnam.

A quick flight will get you to central Vietnam for two days in Hoi An. In addition to the historic sites, you can take a boat trip along the Huai River to Thanh Ha Pottery Village and see how local people work on their crafts.

Ho Chi Minh city is the must-see destination of the south. The vibrant southern hub has beautiful colonial architecture and important historical sites like the Cu Chi Tunnels and Reunification Palace.

8 Days Best of Vietnam Tour Package

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Saigon - Mekong Delta – Saigon

Conclusion

The range of options to get from Hanoi to Hoi An means there’s something for every style of travel. Take a flight for a fast, convenient transfer, or experience the countryside of Vietnam traveling by train, car, or motorbike.

After the grand sites of Hanoi, Hoi An’s cultural heritage and picturesque streets promise an unforgettable experience. Make central Vietnam a destination on your Vietnam tour for an immersive impression of the culture of the country.