Ninh Binh to Hoi An travel guide: Routes, tips & transport options

From the tranquil beauty of Ninh Binh’s limestone valleys to the romantic glow of Hoi An’s ancient streets, this journey captures the essence of Vietnam’s charm. Both destinations stand as must-visits for any traveler exploring the country.

About the distance and travel time from Ninh Binh to Hoi An

Located in northern Vietnam, Ninh Binh lies nearly 700 kilometers from Hoi An, which sits along the country’s central coast. Traveling between the two destinations typically takes around 12 hours by road, depending on your chosen mode of transport and traffic conditions.

This long journey connects two contrasting regions of Vietnam — from the tranquil limestone landscapes of Ninh Binh to the historic, lantern-lit charm of Hoi An — making it a scenic and rewarding trip for travelers exploring the country from north to central Vietnam.

How to get from Ninh Binh to Hoi An by sleeper bus

Taking a sleeper bus from Ninh Binh to Hoi An is one of the most convenient and budget-friendly ways to travel across Vietnam. Covering a distance of about 711 kilometers, the journey usually takes around 12 hours, allowing you to rest comfortably while watching the country’s landscapes transform — from Ninh Binh’s tranquil limestone peaks in the north to Hoi An’s lantern-lit charm in the central region.

Most sleeper buses depart in the evening, offering travelers a comfortable overnight trip with reclining seats, air-conditioning, and occasional rest stops along the way. It’s an ideal option for those looking to save both time and accommodation costs.

Information about traveling by train from Ninh Binh to Hoi An

There is no direct train route from Ninh Binh to Hoi An. Instead, travelers need to first take a train from Ninh Binh to Da Nang, then continue the final leg of the journey from Da Nang to Hoi An by bus, taxi, or private transfer.

Ninh Binh to Da Nang

The train journey from Ninh Binh to Da Nang covers approximately 680 kilometers and typically takes between 13 and 15 hours, depending on the service. Several reliable trains operate daily, including SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7, and SE19, with ticket prices starting from around 519,000 to 572,000 VND, depending on the seat type and class. These trains provide comfortable sleeping berths, air-conditioning, and scenic views of Vietnam’s countryside and coastline — making the long trip an enjoyable experience for many travelers.

Da Nang to Hoi An

Upon arrival at Da Nang Train Station, you’ll find it easy to reach Hoi An, which lies about 30 kilometers away. Travelers can choose between local buses, taxis, or private cars.

For a smooth and eco-friendly ride, Xanh SM Taxi is a popular option, operating modern VinFast electric vehicles. The standard fare from Da Nang to Hoi An is around 380,000 VND with Xanh SM Standard, while Xanh SM Luxury offers a more premium experience for approximately 440,000 VND. Both can be conveniently booked through the Xanh SM mobile application.

Guide to traveling from Ninh Binh to Hoi An by motorbike or car

For travelers who enjoy freedom and flexibility, driving from Ninh Binh to Hoi An by motorbike or car is an adventurous option worth considering. This journey allows you to travel at your own pace, make spontaneous stops, and fully immerse yourself in Vietnam’s ever-changing scenery — from peaceful countryside roads to stretches of coastal highway.

However, it’s important to remember that this is a long-distance route, and drivers should be prepared for extended hours on the road and potential fatigue. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and plan your rest stops carefully.

There are two common routes for this trip. The first follows the CT01 Highway, suitable for cars only, stretching roughly 711 kilometers and taking about 12 hours. The second route, National Road 1A, is open to both cars and motorbikes and covers around 717 kilometers, with a travel time of approximately 13 hours.

Is it possible to fly from Ninh Binh to Hoi An?

There are no direct flights from Ninh Binh to Hoi An, as neither destination has its own airport. However, travelers can easily combine road and air travel to shorten the journey. The most convenient route is to travel from Ninh Binh to Hanoi, then take a flight from Noi Bai International Airport to Da Nang, which is the nearest major airport to Hoi An.

Several Vietnamese airlines operate daily flights on the Hanoi–Da Nang route, with a flight time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes and fares starting from approximately 850,000 VND.

Upon arrival at Da Nang International Airport, reaching Hoi An is simple and flexible. Travelers can choose from airport shuttle buses, private taxis, or even motorbike rentals. Renting a motorbike in Da Nang is particularly popular among independent travelers, costing around 150,000 VND per day, and offers the freedom to explore the scenic coastal roads leading to Hoi An.

>> Explore more destinations and insider advice in our Travel Guide