Hoi An and Nha Trang are both popular travel destinations in Vietnam, but getting from one to the other requires some planning. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways you can travel between Hoi An and Nha Trang, including by train, bus, and tours with stops along the way.
Good to know
Da Nang
Hoi An does not have its own airport or train station, but just a 30-minute ride away is Da Nang, one of the major cities in central Vietnam. Da Nang serves as the regional transportation hub, offering an international airport, a railway station, and a large bus station. Most travelers heading from Hoi An to Nha Trang will pass through Da Nang first.
No direct flights
While Da Nang International Airport offers a variety of connections within Vietnam and internationally, there are no direct flights between Da Nang and Nha Trang. The only way to fly would be to transit through Ho Chi Minh City, which would require traveling further south and adding a layover, making flights less convenient than other options.
Option 1: Train
One of the best options for traveling between Hoi An and Nha Trang is by train. Although Hoi An doesn’t have a train station, the nearest one is located in Da Nang, just a 30-minute drive away. The train journey is quite long, but it takes you through the beautiful countryside of central Vietnam, with some sections running along the scenic coastline, making it one of the most enjoyable train rides in Vietnam.
Train option
- Schedule: 3 to 5 trains a day
- Train: Vietnam Railways, Violette Express
- Travel time: Around 10 to 11 hours
- Price: From €18 per person for a standard 4-berth sleeper, up to €55 for a bed in a tourist train 4-berth cabin
Tips
- If it fits your budget, opt for a tourist cabin. These privately-owned cabins, while part of the same train, offer better maintenance, cleaner amenities like toilets, and more comfortable cabins, making the long trip more pleasant.
Option 2: Bus
Taking the bus is a popular option for traveling between Hoi An and Nha Trang, as it offers direct transfers without needing to first travel to Da Nang. This is also the most budget-friendly choice, making it attractive to many travelers, especially backpackers. However, since the journey takes around 9 to 10 hours, most buses on this route are sleeper buses. While sleeper buses allow for a reclining bed, they aren’t for everyone—some travelers find it difficult to sleep on buses, and others may have concerns about safety.
Bus option
- Schedule: 20+ buses per day
- Travel time: Around 10 hours
- Price: €15 to €25 depending on the bus type
Tips
- If it’s within your budget, consider upgrading to a VIP sleeper bus. These buses offer nearly double the space, more comfortable seating, and additional privacy with individual curtains, making for a more enjoyable trip.
Option 3: Touring
If you have the time and want to explore more of Vietnam along the way, touring between Hoi An and Nha Trang can be a rewarding option. Instead of heading directly to your destination, you can visit some off-the-beaten-path spots, especially beach towns, that are often overlooked by tourists. This option is ideal for beach lovers and those looking for a more relaxed and local experience. Here are a few stops you can make along the way:
Phu Yen
Phu Yen boasts some of the most beautiful and untouched beaches in Vietnam. Despite its stunning coastline, the area remains relatively undiscovered by mass tourism, making it a peaceful destination. The main town, Tuy Hoa, is a sleepy coastal city with a few nice resorts, but the real gems are the remote beaches and fishing villages found just outside the city. It’s a great place to experience authentic local life.
Binh Dinh
Quy Nhon, the capital of Binh Dinh province, is gradually gaining popularity but still remains much quieter compared to Nha Trang or Da Nang. Around Quy Nhon, you’ll find pristine beaches and charming fishing villages, offering a more laid-back atmosphere. The area is becoming more accessible to travelers, but it’s still far from crowded, making it an excellent stop for those seeking tranquility.
