If you’re planning your trip through Central Vietnam and wondering how to travel from Hoi An to Hue, you’re in the right place. These two historical cities are only about 125 km apart — but the journey between them offers stunning coastal views, winding mountain roads, and cultural experiences you won’t want to miss.
Whether you’re looking for a scenic ride over the Hai Van Pass, a quick transfer from door to door, or a budget-friendly alternative — this guide breaks down all the best ways to travel from Hoi An to Hue.
🚗 Option 1: Private Car – The Most Comfortable and Scenic Way
Best for: Couples, families, groups, or anyone who values flexibility and comfort.
Traveling from Hoi An to Hue by private car is the most popular and hassle-free option. You’ll get picked up directly at your hotel and can customize your stops along the way — especially to explore the famous Hai Van Pass, Lang Co Beach, Marble Mountains, or Elephant Springs.
✅ Highlights:
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Total travel time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours (with scenic stops)
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Estimated cost: ~$65–$90 USD per car
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Door-to-door service
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Flexible stops and photo opportunities
⭐ Recommended for travelers who want both convenience and breathtaking views.
🚌 Option 2: Shuttle Bus or Shared Limousine
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who want comfort but don’t need private service.
There are several shuttle and limousine services running daily between Hoi An and Hue. Most use 9-seat or 16-seat vans with comfortable seating, A/C, and professional drivers.
✅ Highlights:
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Travel time: 3 to 3.5 hours
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Price: ~10–15 USD per seat
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Pickup from central Hoi An hotels
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Drop-off in central Hue
Note: Some services go through the Hai Van Tunnel to save time, skipping the scenic route.
Option 3: Train (via Da Nang Station) – Not Recommended
Best for: Train enthusiasts who value the journey over convenience.
But honestly? This might not be your best option.
Many blogs still recommend taking the train from Da Nang to Hue as a budget and scenic option, but in 2025, it’s no longer ideal — especially if you’re starting from Hoi An.
❌ Why the Train Isn’t Worth It:
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No direct train from Hoi An → You need to first travel 45–60 minutes by car to Da Nang Station.
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Long waiting times: Train schedules often don’t align with your plans.
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Old trains, inconsistent air-conditioning, and no flexibility to stop along the beautiful Hai Van Pass.
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You’ll miss out on amazing views you could have seen by car or motorbike — because many trains pass through the Hai Van Tunnel, skipping the scenic road entirely.
🧳 If you’re carrying luggage or traveling with family, the train becomes even more inconvenient.
🔁 Summary:
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Travel time: 45 min (Hoi An → Da Nang) + 2.5–3 hours (train)
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Total journey: ~4+ hours, including waiting
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Comfort level: ❌❌❌
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Scenic value: Limited and unpredictable
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Recommended? No – better alternatives are available.
✅ What to do instead?
If you’re looking for comfort and scenic beauty:
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Take a private car and enjoy Hai Van Pass
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Or book a shared limousine with door-to-door service
💡 You’ll spend less time, see more, and avoid the stress of transfers and rigid schedules.
🏍️ Option 4: Motorbike Adventure
Best for: Adventurous travelers and experienced riders
Riding a motorbike from Hoi An to Hue through the Hai Van Pass is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can either rent your own bike or go with a motorbike tour guide (many offer luggage transfer separately).
✅ Highlights:
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Travel time: ~5–6 hours with stops
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Rental or guided tour available
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Unforgettable views and ultimate freedom
⚠️ Make sure you’re comfortable with mountain roads and traffic before choosing this option.
Option 5: Taxi or Grab – Not the Best Choice
At first glance, taking a taxi or Grab from Hoi An to Hue might seem like a fast and easy option — but in reality, it comes with several drawbacks that make it less ideal for long-distance travel.
❌ Why We Don’t Recommend Taxi or Grab for This Route:
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High and inconsistent pricing
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Unlike private transfer services with fixed rates, taxi or Grab fares may vary depending on time, traffic, or driver availability.
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Long-distance rides like this often incur hidden fees, toll charges, or detour surcharges.
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Not guaranteed over long distances
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Many Grab drivers may reject a trip from Hoi An to Hue due to the long route, especially over the Hai Van Pass.
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Even traditional taxi drivers may refuse or negotiate high fixed prices before departing.
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No stops or scenic experience
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Taxis and Grabs generally go through the Hai Van Tunnel, bypassing the beautiful Hai Van Pass entirely.
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You can’t ask to stop at viewpoints, beaches, or photo spots.
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No extra service
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With a private transfer, you get a professional English-speaking driver, bottled water, free stops, and help with your luggage — things a taxi or Grab ride won’t offer.
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🧾 Summary:
| Factor | Taxi/Grab | Private Car |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Unstable, often higher | Fixed and transparent |
| Stops allowed | ❌ | ✅ Yes – fully flexible |
| Comfort | ⚠️ Basic | ✅ High-quality vehicles |
| Scenic route | ❌ Usually tunnel only | ✅ Hai Van Pass available |
| Booking security | ❌ Not guaranteed | ✅ Instant confirmation |
🚫 Verdict: Unless you’re in an emergency or unable to book ahead, we don’t recommend using a taxi or Grab to travel from Hoi An to Hue. You’ll pay more for less value, and miss out on the best parts of the journey.
📍 How Far Is It from Hoi An to Hue?
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Distance: ~125 km (~78 miles)
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Fastest route: Via Hai Van Tunnel (~2.5 hours)
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Scenic route: Via Hai Van Pass (~3–3.5 hours)
✨ Best Way to Travel from Hoi An to Hue?
✅ Our top recommendation: Book a private car with stops along the Hai Van Pass.
It gives you full control of your itinerary, comfort, and photo opportunities at the most beautiful places in Central Vietnam.
📞 Want to Book a Transfer?
We offer Hoi An ⇄ Hue private transfers with:
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Free stops at Hai Van Pass, Lang Co Beach, Lap An Lagoon
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English-speaking drivers
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Transparent pricing
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Online booking and fast confirmation
📲 Contact us now to book your ride from Hoi An to Hue!
WhatsApp: +84762570570
