Complete Guide to Payments in Vietnam: Cash, Cards & Grab Explained
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How to Get from Da Nang to Hoi An (2025 Update)
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Contents
- Taxi, Grab, Shuttle Bus or Private Transfer — Which Is Right for You?
- Quick Comparison Table
- Best Option by Traveler Type
- By Taxi – Safe & Easy for First-Timers
- By Grab – Budget-Friendly & Convenient
- By Shuttle Bus – Cheap & Tourist-Friendly
- By Local Bus – For the Adventurous
- By Private Transfer – Best for Families or Groups
- Editor’s Choice
- Travel Tips
- Summary
Taxi, Grab, Shuttle Bus or Private Transfer — Which Is Right for You?
Hi! I’m Chie from the Hoian-Danang Travel Notebook team.
Many first-time visitors to Vietnam wonder:
“How do I get from Da Nang to Hoi An?”
“Are taxis expensive? Can I use Grab? Is there a bus?”
Hoi An lies only 30 km (18 miles) south of Da Nang — about a 45-minute drive — and there’s no train service between the two.
Most travelers choose a taxi, Grab, shuttle bus, or private transfer depending on budget and comfort.
This guide compares every option so you can pick the one that fits your travel style best.
Quick Comparison Table
| Transport | Best For | Time | Cost (USD) | Key Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚖 Taxi | First-time visitors | 45 min | 11 – 15 | Reliable, door-to-door |
| 🚗 Grab (app) | Budget travelers | 45 min | 9 – 13 | Transparent pricing |
| 🚌 Shuttle Bus | Solo / budget | 1 h | 5 – 7 | Fixed schedule |
| 🚌 Local Bus | Adventurous / long stay | 1.5 h | 0.8 | Cheapest, slow |
| 🚐 Private Transfer | Families / groups | 45 min | 15 – 20 | Comfortable, pre-booked |
Best Option by Traveler Type
- Families with kids: Private Transfer or Grab
- Solo travelers: Shuttle Bus or Grab
- Budget backpackers: Local Bus
- First-timers: Taxi or Pre-booked Car
By Taxi – Safe & Easy for First-Timers
Taxis are available 24/7 at Da Nang Airport and around town.
Use trusted companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun for peace of mind.
- Time: ≈ 45 min
- Cost: 300 000 – 400 000 VND (~ 11 – 15 USD)
✅ Smooth, direct transfer from airport or hotel
❌ Slightly more expensive than Grab
By Grab – Budget-Friendly & Convenient
Grab is Southeast Asia’s most popular ride-hailing app.
The fare is shown up front — no haggling or surprises.
Download the app before your trip and link a credit card for easy payment.
💡 Tip: Get a local SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi to use Grab seamlessly.
- Time: ≈ 45 min
- Cost: 250 000 – 350 000 VND (~ 9 – 13 USD)
✅ Cheaper than taxi ❌ Needs internet connection
👉 Learn more: https://hoian-danang.com/en/grab-app-guide/
By Shuttle Bus – Cheap & Tourist-Friendly
Many hotels and agencies operate daily shuttle buses between Da Nang and Hoi An.
You can book easily on travel sites like Klook or KKday.
- Time: ≈ 1 hour
- Cost: 5 – 7 USD (one way)
✅ Inexpensive & safe ❌ Fixed schedule / limited space
By Local Bus – For the Adventurous
Local buses run from Da Nang City to Hoi An, but not from the airport.
You’ll need to reach a city bus stop first.
- Time: ≈ 1.5 h
- Cost: ≈ 20 000 VND (~ 0.8 USD)
✅ Ultra-cheap, authentic experience
❌ Few English signs, crowded, limited hours
By Private Transfer – Best for Families or Groups
Private cars or hotel-arranged transfers offer a comfortable, door-to-door ride.
Perfect for families or those with large luggage.
- Time: ≈ 45 min
- Cost: 15 – 20 USD (per car)
✅ Pre-book online ✅ Safe & hassle-free
❌ Must reserve in advance
Editor’s Choice
If you’re visiting Vietnam for the first time or traveling with kids,
choose Grab or a Private Transfer for the best balance of safety and comfort.
For solo or budget travelers, the Shuttle Bus is great value.
Avoid late-night local buses as service hours are limited.
Travel Tips
- Prepare a SIM card or Wi-Fi router before arrival.
- Traffic can get busy around 6–7 PM; allow extra time.
- Ask for the coastal route for ocean views.
- At night, Hoi An glows with lanterns — arrive early to enjoy it! ✨
Summary
Hoi An is only an hour away from Da Nang —
whichever option you choose, the journey is simple and scenic.
Pick the method that fits your travel style and enjoy your trip! 🌿
