How to Plan a Day Trip from Da Nang to Hoi An Ancient Town by Ovuigo

A journey from Da Nang to Hoi An Ancient Town is one of the most rewarding day trips in Central Vietnam. Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Quang Nam Province, champions centuries of preserved heritage, vibrant lantern culture, and riverside life along the Thu Bon river. Whether traveling alone, with family, or as part of a group, proper planning can turn your day trip into an unforgettable cultural experience in Southeast Asia.

Essential Steps for Planning

• Choose the Right Departure Time: Start early. Departing Da Nang at 8:00 am allows you to maximize daylight, beat crowds, and enjoy Hoi An before the midday heat.
• Secure Transportation: Options include shuttle buses, private car hire, group tours, or adventure with a bicycle if you’re fit and experienced. Booking in advance with Ovuigo during peak season ensures availability.
• Know Your Route: Da Nang sits roughly 30 km north of Hoi An, making this a manageable journey of about 45 minutes to 1 hour (depending on your method and pick-up point).
• Reserve Entry & Tours: Some attractions, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge (ticket: 120,000 VND/adult), require admission. Booking guided walking tours in advance can enrich your visit with expert local insight.
• Craft Your Itinerary: Focus on history, culture, and views—the Japanese Covered Bridge, Old Town, Tran Phu street, Thu Bon river cruises, and a relaxing spell at An Bang Beach are highlights.
  Why Hoi An is a Must-See Destination

Hoi An blends Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European heritage in its architecture and cuisine. Its ancient shophouses, lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, and riverside ambiance offer an immersive experience for travelers searching for the charm of Indochina. Avoid night trips to make the most of Hoi An’s daytime colors and cultural life.

Map: Hoi An Ancient Town

Best Itinerary for a Hoi An Day Trip: Must-See Attractions and Landmarks

Follow this best day trip itinerary from Da Nang to Hoi An to see the city’s cultural icons and natural beauty:

Morning:

• Old Town Walking Tour: Stroll through a preserved network of alleyways and find historic homes, temples, and photogenic spots. Buy a Hoi An Old Town ticket (120,000 VND/adult), granting entry to five attractions within the heritage zone.
• Japanese Covered Bridge: This 18th-century symbol connects the Japanese and Chinese quarters. Snap a photo at sunrise for the best light and fewer visitors. View on map.
  Midday:
• Tran Phu Main Street: The heart of Hoi An’s ancient trading port. Browse traditional houses, colorful lanterns, handicraft shops, and tea houses. View on map
• Central Market: Explore stalls bursting with fresh produce, tailor-made clothes, and souvenirs. Find local snacks and taste fresh sugarcane juice.
  Afternoon:
• Thu Bon River: Enjoy a relaxing river cruise or hire a sampan for a short, tranquil ride while viewing the Old Town skyline. Boat trips start at 50,000 VND/person. View on map

• 

  An Bang Beach: End your day by the sea. Lounge on soft sand, dine at a beachside restaurant, or join water activities. View on map

Transportation Options: How to Get from Da Nang to Hoi An by Ovuigo

Choosing the right transport is crucial for a seamless day trip itinerary from Da Nang to Hoi An.

Shuttle Bus:

• Budget-friendly (about 150,000–200,000 VND round-trip/person)
• Fixed departure times, convenient for solo travelers and small groups
• Hotel pickup available at major Da Nang hotels
  Private Car or Minivan:
• Best for families or groups; prices start from 600,000 VND/vehicle/one-way
• Door-to-door service, full schedule flexibility
• Recommended for visitors seeking comfort or traveling with kids
  Group Tours:
• Join a private Hoi An day tour from Da Nang (800,000–1,200,000 VND/person including guide, tickets, lunch)
• Typically includes Old Town, Japanese Bridge, and river cruise
• Family-friendly and stress-free
  Bicycle Rental:
• Suited only for experienced cyclists and adventure seekers (distance: 30 km, takes 2–3 hours each way)
• Rental: 100,000 VND/day. Hydration and sun protection essential.
  Taxi/Grab:
• Convenient for one-way travel but less economical for a full-day return
• Expect 350,000–500,000 VND per direction
  All options allow for round-trip arrangements; be sure to confirm return pickup details when booking.

Top Experiences in Hoi An by Ovuigo : Lantern Festival, River Cruises, and Local Crafts

Exploring Hoi An is much more than sightseeing; it’s about cultural immersion. Here are the best experiences:

Lantern Festival:

• Held monthly on the full moon, the ancient town glows with traditional lanterns. Join locals in releasing lanterns on the Thu Bon river for good luck. Participation is free, lanterns cost around 20,000–50,000 VND each.
  River Cruises:
• Opt for a short sunset sampan ride (from 50,000 VND/person) or book a private cruise. Boatmen will assist with lantern releases for a small tip.
  Lantern Making Workshops:
• Learn this ancestral craft—sessions start at 150,000 VND/person and include a handmade souvenir to take home.
  Tailor Shops:
• Hoi An is famous for custom suits, dresses, and shoes. Prices vary (from 800,000 VND/piece), with same-day fittings often available.
  Local Craft Markets:
• Shop hand-painted pottery, silk scarves, or bamboo lanterns. Central Market and night markets are excellent for browsing.

Where to Eat in Hoi An: Discovering Vietnamese Cuisine and Fusion Food

Hoi An is a paradise for food lovers. Don’t miss these experiences:

Signature Dishes:

• Cao Lau: Chewy noodles with pork, herbs, and crunchy crackling (40,000–60,000 VND/bowl)
• Banh Mi Phuong: Famous local-style banh mi (25,000–35,000 VND/each)
• White Rose Dumplings: Delicate shrimp or pork dumplings (70,000–100,000 VND/serving)
• Com Ga (Chicken Rice): Fragrant rice with steamed chicken (40,000–80,000 VND/plate)
  Best Locations:
• Riverside cafes and restaurants along Bach Dang and Nguyen Thai Hoc streets offer beautiful river views.
• An Bang Beach restaurants serve fresh seafood and Vietnamese classics.
  Cooking Classes:
• Join a half-day cooking session (350,000–600,000 VND/person, includes meal and visit to a local food market)
  Tables frequently fill up—reservations are recommended, especially for family-friendly or group events.

Practical Tips for a Successful Hoi An Day Tour from Da Nang

• Book in Advance: Use official sites or trusted local operators like ovuigo
• Best Time: Visit February–April for mild weather, minimal rain, and lush scenery. The lantern festival period is especially magical.
• Photography: Capture dawn on the Japanese Covered Bridge and sunset scenes at An Bang Beach.
• Private Guides: Enhance your trip with a knowledgeable local. English-speaking guides charge 350,000–600,000 VND (half day).
• Recommended Inclusions: Walking tour, lantern workshop, river cruise, and local meal.
• What to Pack: Sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, camera, compact umbrella, and cash (many small merchants do not accept cards).
  **We don’t run tours — we craft experiences. Each journey is a story written just for you, designed for those who wish to explore Vietnam slowly, deeply, and meaningfully. No fixed itineraries. No crowds. Just you — and the moments that truly matter. **Contact us via Whatsapp +84868319161

Wrap up your day with a memorable stay—consider The Manor Hoi An, Hola 1, or Hola 2 for a night of comfort and charm.