Travel TipsVietnam

Transportation and Navigation around Hoi An Ancient Town

1. How can I get to Hoi An Ancient Town from the nearest airport?


The nearest airport to Hoi An Ancient Town is Da Nang International Airport, which is approximately 30km away. There are several ways to get from the airport to the ancient town:

1. Taxi: You can take a taxi from the airport directly to Hoi An Ancient Town. This is the most convenient option, and it takes about 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic. The cost of a taxi ride is around 300,000 VND (13 USD).

2. Private car transfer: You can also book a private car transfer in advance, which will pick you up at the airport and take you directly to your hotel in Hoi An Ancient Town. This option is more expensive but offers more comfort and convenience.

3. Shuttle bus: There is a shuttle bus service operated by Hoi An Express that runs between Da Nang Airport and Hoi An Ancient Town. The journey takes about an hour, and tickets can be purchased at the airport.

4. Public bus: If you’re traveling on a budget, you can take a public bus from the airport to Hoi An Ancient Town. Bus number 1 or 6a runs from the airport to Hoi An town every 20 minutes and costs around 20,000 VND (less than 1 USD).

5. Motorbike rental: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a motorbike from one of the many rental shops near the airport and make your own way to Hoi An Ancient Town.

2. Are there any public transportation options available in Hoi An Ancient Town?


Yes, there are a few public transportation options available in Hoi An Ancient Town:
– Local buses: There are local buses that run between Hoi An Ancient Town and nearby cities such as Da Nang and Hue.
– Taxis: Taxis are readily available in the town, but they can be quite expensive compared to other modes of transportation.
– Motorbike taxis (xe om): These are motorbikes with drivers who offer short rides around the town. They are more affordable than regular taxis.
– Bicycle rentals: Many hotels and shops in Hoi An Ancient Town offer bicycle rentals for tourists to explore the town at their own pace.
– Walking: Hoi An Ancient Town is compact and easily walkable, making walking an ideal option for getting around.

3. What type of vehicles are allowed inside the ancient town?


Only electric and non-motorized vehicles, such as bicycles, are allowed inside the ancient town.

4. Is it easy to find a taxi or ride-sharing service in Hoi An Ancient Town?


Yes, it is easy to find a taxi or ride-sharing service in Hoi An Ancient Town. Taxis are readily available around the town and can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands. Ride-sharing services, such as Grab or GoViet, are also widely available in Hoi An and can be accessed through their mobile apps. Most hotels and guesthouses also offer transportation services for their guests.

5. Can I rent a bicycle or motorbike to explore the town?


Yes, many rental shops in town offer bicycles and motorbikes for daily or hourly rental. Just make sure to wear a helmet and follow traffic rules while exploring!

6. Are there any waterways that can be used for transportation within Hoi An Ancient Town?


Yes, there are several waterways within Hoi An Ancient Town that can be used for transportation. These waterways include the Thu Bon River and the Hoai River, which run through the town. There are also smaller canals that connect different areas of the town and can be used for travel by small boats or sampans.

7. How long does it take to walk from one end of the ancient town to the other?


The time it takes to walk from one end of the ancient town to the other can vary depending on the specific town and its size. Generally, it could take anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour. Some ancient towns may be compact and easy to navigate, while others may be larger and more spread out with winding streets and alleys. Visitors should plan on spending at least a few hours exploring an ancient town in order to fully appreciate its history and culture.

8. Are there any guided tour options available for transportation around Hoi An Ancient Town?

Yes, there are several guided tour options available for transportation around Hoi An Ancient Town. Some popular choices include:

1. Cyclo tours: A bicycle rickshaw or cyclo can take you around the narrow streets and alleys of Hoi An, giving you a unique perspective and stopping at different landmarks and attractions along the way.

2. Walking tours: There are many companies offering walking tours of Hoi An Ancient Town, often led by knowledgeable local guides who can provide historical and cultural insights as you explore the town on foot.

3. Boat tours: You can also hop on a boat tour to navigate the waterways of Hoi An and visit some nearby islands such as Cam Kim Island, Kim Bong Village, or Thanh Ha pottery village.

4. Motorbike tours: For a more adventurous experience, you can join a motorbike tour that will take you to off-the-beaten-path destinations in and around Hoi An.

5. Private car or van tours: If you prefer a more comfortable and customized tour experience, you can hire a private car or van with a driver who can take you to places of your choice at your own pace.

It is recommended to do some research and compare prices before booking a guided tour to find the best option that suits your budget and interests.

9. What are the peak hours for traffic in and out of Hoi An Ancient Town?


The peak hours for traffic in and out of Hoi An Ancient Town are typically from 8:00am to 11:00am and from 4:00pm to 7:00pm. During these times, there is heavy traffic on the roads leading to and from the town as visitors and locals commute to work or visit the town for sightseeing and shopping. It is recommended to plan your travels accordingly during these hours or opt for alternative modes of transportation such as walking or biking.

10. Can I bring my own vehicle into Hoi An Ancient Town or do I have to park outside and walk in?

– Visitors are not allowed to drive personal vehicles into the Ancient Town of Hoi An. You can park your vehicle at designated parking areas outside of the Ancient Town and walk in. Pedestrian streets within the Ancient Town are reserved for walking and biking only.

11. Are there any designated parking areas for visitors in the ancient town?


Yes, there are designated parking areas for visitors in the ancient town. These typically include public parking lots and street parking spaces near the entrance of the ancient town or within walking distance. Visitors are advised to check with local authorities for specific guidelines and regulations related to parking in the ancient town.

12. Is it safe to drive a vehicle around the narrow streets of Hoi An Ancient Town?

It is generally safe to drive a vehicle around the narrow streets of Hoi An Ancient Town, but it can require some skill and patience. The streets are often crowded with pedestrians, bicycles, and motorbikes, so it is important to remain alert and drive slowly. Additionally, some streets may be too narrow for larger vehicles, so it may be best to travel by bicycle or on foot in the main tourist areas.

13. How much does it cost to take a traditional cyclo ride in Hoi An Ancient Town?


The average cost for a traditional cyclo ride in Hoi An Ancient Town is around 70,000 to 100,000 VND (3-4 USD) per hour. The price may vary depending on the route and negotiation with the driver.

14. Is it possible to hire a private car with a driver for transportation during my stay in Hoi An Ancient Town?


Yes, it is possible to hire a private car with a driver for transportation during your stay in Hoi An Ancient Town. There are several car rental companies and tour agencies that offer this service. You can contact them beforehand or ask for assistance from your hotel reception or concierge. Prices may vary depending on the type of car and duration of the rental, so it’s best to inquire and compare rates from different providers.

15. Can I take a boat tour on the Thu Bon River from Hoi An Ancient Town?


Yes, you can take a boat tour on the Thu Bon River from Hoi An Ancient Town. There are several boat tour companies operating in Hoi An that offer different types of boat tours, ranging from short scenic cruises to longer dinner cruises. These tours usually depart from the Hoi An Ancient Town and take visitors along the Thu Bon River, passing by local fishing villages, lush green countryside and beautiful landscapes. It is a great way to get a different perspective of Hoi An’s surroundings and learn more about the local culture and lifestyle.

16. What are some popular destinations outside of Hoi An AncientTown that can be reached by public transportation?


Some popular destinations outside of Hoi An Ancient Town that can be reached by public transportation include Da Nang, Hue, My Son Sanctuary, Cham Islands, and Ba Na Hills.

17 .Are there any special permits required for taking photos on boats while on the river near Hoi AnAncientTown?

There are no special permits required for taking photos on boats while on the river near Hoi An Ancient Town. However, if you plan to take photos of local people or businesses, it is always polite to ask for their permission before doing so out of respect for their privacy and cultural beliefs.

18 .Is it possible to book a cruise or ferry from HoiAnAncientTownto nearby islands?


Yes, it is possible to book a cruise or ferry from Hoi An Ancient Town to nearby islands. There are several options available, including day trips and overnight cruises. Some popular destinations for island cruises from Hoi An include Cham Island, Cu Lao Cham, and Tam Hai Island. It is recommended to book in advance through a reputable tour company or at the local harbor/port.

19 .Are there any traditional means of transportation that are still used in daily life by locals inHoiAnAncientTown?


Yes, there are still traditional means of transportation used in daily life by locals in Hoi An Ancient Town, such as:
1. Cyclos: Also known as pedicabs, these are three-wheeled bicycle taxis that can be seen around the town. They are used for short distances within the town and offer a slow and scenic way to explore the narrow streets and alleys.
2. Xe Om: This is a popular mode of transportation in Vietnam where people ride on the back of a motorbike taxi to get around. In Hoi An, xe om drivers often wear traditional conical hats and can be found at most street corners offering their services.
3. Boats: As Hoi An is situated along the Thu Bon River, boats are commonly used as a means of transportation to cross from one side of the town to the other. Locals also use boats for fishing or for transporting goods.
4. Buffalo cart: This is a wooden cart pulled by domesticated water buffalo, commonly used in rural areas surrounding Hoi An for farming and transporting crops.
5. Walking: Many locals prefer to travel on foot in the small and compact Hoi An Ancient Town due to its pedestrian-friendly streets and narrow alleyways.
6. Scooters/bicycles: While motorbikes and bicycles are not considered traditional means of transportation, they are still widely used by locals to commute within the town or for longer distances outside of Hoi An.

20 .What is the best way to get to My Son Sanctuary, a popular nearby attraction, from Hoi An Ancient Town?


The best way to get to My Son Sanctuary from Hoi An Ancient Town is by hiring a private car or booking a tour. Alternatively, you can also take a public bus from Hoi An Central Market to Duy Phu, then transfer to another bus or hire a motorbike taxi to reach My Son Sanctuary. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour.