GETTING AROUND IN HOI AN

Getting around in Hoi An is very convenient compared to other cities in Vietnam due to its compact size, numerous pedestrian lanes, and budget-friendly public transportation. Prominent attractions, restaurants, bars, and shops within Hoi An Ancient Town are easily accessible on foot, by cyclo, motorbike, taxi, electric car and by bicycle. For the safety of visitors, motorized vehicles are prohibited from entering Hoi An Ancient Town during certain hours each day.

Many natural attractions can be explored within 10 km of the UNESCO World Heritage site, such as pristine beaches, local villages, and verdant mountains. Naturally, these require a vehicle to reach. To ensure a comfortable vacation, we have compiled a helpful guide on Hoi An transportation.

Cycling

Cycling is the most convenient and economical way to get around, particularly in Hoi An Ancient Town. Traffic is typically light, and the streets in the Ancient Town are off-limits to cars, taxis, motorcycles, and xe om from 8:30 am to 11 am and from 3 pm to 9:30 pm.

You can rent a bicycle easily from your hotel or a bike rental shop, often at a very affordable price. Additionally, there are cycling tours that take you through the nearby countryside, rice fields, fishing villages, buffalo pastures, and across the Bamboo Bridge.

Taxis

Taxis are easily accessible outside Hoi An Ancient Town, but we recommend choosing reputable companies such as Mai Linh, Xanh SM, and Sun Taxi. Additionally, there are two taxi apps (Xanh SM and Taxi Song Hoai app) you can use to book a ride. Furthermore, technology-based taxi services are an excellent choice since you can book through the Grab app and know exactly what fare you will pay.

The journey from Da Nang International Airport to Hoi An takes at least 45 minutes by taxi, with fairly reasonable fares. However, rates may be higher if your hotel arranges the taxi service for you.

Motorcycle

In my opinion, Motorcycles are ideal for exploring Hoi An’s rural villages, expansive coastline, and even the Marble Mountains in Da Nang. Most shops provide daily rentals at reasonable rates, typically including a standard bike and helmet.

When renting a motorbike in Hoi An, carefully inspect the vehicle's condition, taking photos of any significant scratches or dents. Ensure the headlights and brakes are functioning properly before leaving the shop, and remember that in Vietnam, driving is on the right-hand side of the road.
 

Cyclo

Cyclos are available within Hoi An Ancient Town, providing a relaxed ride through the pedestrian-friendly streets. Each cyclo can carry up to two passengers, and the operators are often willing to share information about the city’s history and landmarks.

Although cyclos typically charge by the kilometer, you can negotiate a fixed fee or hourly rate if you plan to explore beyond the city.

Motocycle Taxis (Xe Om)

Agree on the price before getting on or better still write it down and show the driver so there can be no mistake. A xe om, or motorcycle taxi is a cheap way of getting around Hoi An. For short jaunts up the road, you shouldn’t need to pay more than 30,000 VND. For trips from Hoi An Old Town to An Bang or Cua Dai beaches the cost is around 40,000 VND.

If you feel the driver is going too fast or putting your life in danger make sure you voice your opinion.

Warning: Using a xe om during the day is safe, however, be cautious late at night as a different breed arises.

Electric Car

The white and green electric buses you'll spot on the streets in Hoi An operate similarly to the Hoi An Shuttle Bus. To use them as taxis, simply call them, specify the number of passengers, and they'll provide a price quote and pick you up. Operating from 7 am to 2 pm, these buses can take you anywhere in Hoi An. From 2 pm to 10 pm, there's a continuous service running between 487 Hai Ba Trung (at the corner of Hai Ba Trung & Ly Thuong Kiet) and 1 Cao Hong Lanh in the Old Town. Tickets can be purchased at two locations (487 Hai Ba Trung & 127 Phan Chu Trinh) for 10,000 VND per one-way trip.

Thanks for reading!!!