Here’s a helpful guide to assist you in navigating transportation in Hoi An for a smooth exploration of the city’s wonders. Choosing the right transport in Hoi An is essential for enjoying the city’s allure. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its historic buildings, lively culture, and beautiful scenery. Understanding your transport options enhances your experience in Hoi An. Whether you choose to cycle, walk by the river, or take a taxi, getting around is simple and enjoyable.
Walking: Immersive Exploration
Strolling around is a great way to take in Hoi An, especially in the Ancient Town where cars and motorbikes aren’t allowed. The streets are ideal for pedestrians, filled with old buildings, shops adorned with lanterns, and charming cafes.
Walking tours are a hit and offer interesting historical facts and tales about the beautifully preserved architecture and lively markets. Make sure to wear comfy shoes since you’ll be doing plenty of walking!
Cycling: The Top Choice
Cycling is the most popular and effective way to explore Hoi An. The city’s flat landscape and beautiful routes are ideal for biking. Numerous hotels and guesthouses have bike rentals, along with several rental shops.
Due to Hoi An’s small size, you can cycle from the Ancient Town to the beach or countryside in 15-30 minutes. This mode of transport lets you enjoy the city’s sights, sounds, and smells at your leisure, making it appealing to both tourists and locals.
For a more organized experience, consider joining a guided bike tour to discover hidden spots and learn about local culture from a knowledgeable guide.
About Hoi An Cycling Tour
Our experienced local team is committed to highlighting the finest aspects of Hoi An through sustainable practices, providing a genuine and personalized view of the region.
You can check out the routes we’ve put together for ideas and exploring on your own, or you can ride along with us. We’ve got some awesome tours you might like, such as biking around Cam Kim Island, taking a beautiful 40km ride through the villages near Hoi An, checking out the conquering the Hai Van Pass, or going on longer trips from Hoi An to Hue…
Motorbikes: For the Adventurous Spirit
For those seeking a bit more adventure, renting a motorbike is a viable option. Motorbikes offer flexibility and can take you beyond the typical tourist routes, exploring nearby villages, rice paddies, and coastal roads.
Rentals are widely available and relatively inexpensive. The daily rental prices for motorbikes typically range from $7 to $27, based on the kind of bike you choose (updated 2024).
However, it’s important to note that traffic can be hectic, and it’s advisable to have some experience riding motorbikes. Always wear a helmet and adhere to local traffic laws for a safe journey.
Electric Buggies: Eco-friendly and Convenient
Hoi An has introduced electric buggies as a green transportation option within the Ancient Town and its immediate surroundings.
These buggies are especially useful for tourists who prefer not to walk or cycle. They provide a comfortable and convenient way to navigate the narrow streets, with many operators offering guided tours that cover key attractions and landmarks. This option aligns with Hoi An’s commitment to sustainable tourism. Check out our Hoi An Green Travel Guide if you’re interested in learning about how locals and visitors are working together to keep this beautiful town eco-friendly.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
Traditional taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are readily available in Hoi An. These are suitable for longer trips, such as traveling to Da Nang or exploring the outskirts of Hoi An.
Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked through hotel services, while Grab offers the convenience of booking via a mobile app. Both options are reliable and reasonably priced, providing an easy way to get around without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads.
The price of a taxi between Hoi An and Da Nang can fluctuate based on different factors like the time, how much luggage you have, and the rates set by the taxi company. Typically, you can expect to pay somewhere between 250,000 and 450,000 VND ($10-$18) for the ride (30km distance).
***TIPS
For long distance trip, if you book your ride in advance, it often ends up being a little less expensive than using a Grab service.
Boats: The Waterways
Hoi An’s location along the Thu Bon River means that boat travel is also an option.
Traditional wooden boats offer a unique perspective of the city, with sunset cruises being particularly popular. These cruises often include a meal or beverages, providing a relaxing way to enjoy the city’s scenic beauty. For a more immersive experience, you can take for a boat tour to nearby islands or fishing villages, where you can engage with local communities and learn about their way of life.
Navigating Hoi An is a delightful part of the travel experience, with various transportation options catering to different preferences and needs.
Whether you choose to cycle through the charming streets, walk through the historic Ancient Town, ride a motorbike to explore further afield, or enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the river, each mode of transport offers a unique way to connect with the city’s heritage and culture. And don’t forget to check out our refreshed guide for ideas on activities in Hoi An, which includes some of the city’s coolest workshops along with a handy three-day itinerary for those visiting for the first time.
***Xin chao! We’re a group of locals fortunate to live in Hoi An, and we’re excited to share our carefully chosen and tested recommendations for the best places to explore and new experiences to enjoy. If you’re considering a trip to Hoi An or even moving here, be sure to keep an eye on our blog!
Leave a Reply