Da Nang To Hue: Best Travel Routes & Tips

Da Nang to Hue is a scenic and enriching journey, offering travelers a mix of beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re traveling by car, train, or bus, this route presents various options to explore the best of Vietnam’s central coast. In this guide, we’ll share the best travel routes along with practical tips to help make your trip unforgettable.

Da Nang to Hue distance? How long does it take to go?

Da Nang to Hue distance is approximately 100 km, making it a well-known travel route that connects two of Central Vietnam’s most famous cities. Whether you choose a scenic route or a direct one, the journey offers stunning landscapes and cultural attractions along the way. Travelers can select from various transportation options depending on their preferences and schedules.

The travel time from Da Nang to Hue varies based on transportation method, with the journey typically taking between 2 and 3 hours on average. If you opt for the scenic Hai Van Pass route, the journey may take longer due to stops at viewpoints. The fastest way to travel is through the Hai Van Tunnel, which reduces travel time to around two hours.

Best travel time from Da Nang to Hue

The best time to travel from Da Nang to Hue is between March and August, when the weather is mostly dry and sunny—perfect for enjoying the scenic route. During this period, travelers can enjoy clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and ideal road conditions. However, if you prefer a cooler atmosphere and fewer crowds, visiting between September and February is an option, although you may encounter occasional rain.

Best travel routes from Da Nang to Hue

Da Nang to Hue via Hai Van Pass

The route from Da Nang to Hue via Hai Van Pass, Lang Co Beach, and Lap An Lagoon is perfect for travelers who appreciate stunning landscapes along their journey. The journey passes through Hai Van Pass, a breathtaking mountain pass with panoramic views.

Along the way, you can visit Lang Co Beach, known for its white sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. You will have stunning photos of Lang Co Bay taken from the foot of Hai Van Pass.

A stop at Lap An Lagoon offers a tranquil setting with beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountains.

Pass through the Hai Van Tunnel

For a faster and more convenient route, travelers can take the Hai Van Tunnel. This option significantly reduces travel time while still allowing stops at Lang Co Beach and Lap An Lagoon.

The tunnel provides a direct and efficient way to reach Hue without the winding roads of the Hai Van Pass. However, this route is only possible if you are traveling by car, as motorbikes are not allowed to enter the Hai Van Tunnel.

Other exciting stops along the way

Additionally, you can visit one of the following two places during your journey.

Known as the “City of Ghosts“, An Bang Cemetery is a fascinating stop. This location features elaborate and colorful tombs built by wealthy families. It offers a unique cultural experience that reflects the spiritual beliefs of the local community.

Bach Ma National Park is a hidden gem in central Vietnam, known for its cool climate, rich biodiversity, and stunning mountain landscapes. Just a short drive from Hue, the park offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views from the summit. It’s a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking to explore Vietnam’s lush forests and rare wildlife.

Map of the route and tourist attractions from Da Nang to Hue:

Transportation options from Da Nang to Hue

Da Nang to Hue by Car

Traveling from Da Nang to Hue by car offers a comfortable and private journey, making it an excellent choice for families or groups. With the flexibility to stop at scenic spots along the way, this option allows travelers to enjoy the beautiful landscapes at their own pace. Air-conditioned vehicles provide a welcome escape from the heat, ensuring a pleasant experience. Moreover, the direct transfer means no unnecessary delays, allowing you to reach your destination quickly.

However, this option can be more expensive than public transportation, which may make it less appealing for solo travelers on a budget. Additionally, traffic conditions can occasionally cause delays, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Despite these downsides, the comfort, flexibility, and privacy make traveling by car a popular choice for many.

Book a private car with an English-speaking driver from VM Car for the best possible journey — contact us today!

Contact information:

• Website: vmcar.com.vn (this website)
• Hotline 1: +84 975 952 918
• Hotline 2: +84 905 55 77 68
• Hue Office: 7/52 Tran Cao street, Hue
• Da Nang Office: 34 An Nhon 1 street, Da Nang

Train from Da Nang to Hue

The train journey from Da Nang to Hue offers one of the most scenic routes in Vietnam, with breathtaking coastal views along the way. Passengers can enjoy comfortable seating and the chance to relax during the trip. Affordable ticket prices make it a budget-friendly choice. No traffic congestion means a smooth and uninterrupted ride.

However, the train ride takes longer compared to buses or private cars, making it less ideal for those in a hurry. Additionally, train departure times are fixed, offering less flexibility. The train stations are outside the main tourist areas. Travelers may need extra transport to reach their final destination.

If you want to enjoy traditional Hue royal music performances and delicious local dishes right on the train, try the Da Nang to Hue Heritage Train. Although it’s slightly more expensive than a regular train, the experience is truly unique. The seats are more comfortable, and the larger windows offer better views of the scenery.

—> To reserve a seat with an ocean view and fully enjoy the natural beauty, contact us now to book your ticket.

Da Nang to Hue by Jeep

Traveling from Da Nang to Hue by Jeep offers a unique and adventurous experience, perfect for those who enjoy rugged travel. The open-air vehicle provides stunning panoramic views, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts. The journey itself is an exciting adventure, adding an extra thrill to your trip.

However, it comes with a few downsides. The cost is higher compared to other forms of transportation, making it a less budget-friendly option. Additionally, long-distance travel in an open jeep can be uncomfortable due to exposure to various weather conditions. There’s also limited space for luggage, which could be an issue for travelers with large bags or extensive gear. Despite these drawbacks, the experience is memorable and perfect for those seeking something different.

Da Nang to Hue by Bus

Traveling from Da Nang to Hue by bus offers an affordable and convenient transportation option. Buses frequently depart throughout the day, providing flexibility in terms of travel time. There are also comfortable choices, including sleeper buses, for those seeking a more relaxed journey.

However, there are some drawbacks. The bus operates on a fixed schedule, limiting flexibility for spontaneous travel plans. Additionally, some buses may not stop at scenic locations, missing out on opportunities to enjoy the views. Traffic and multiple pick-ups may cause delays. During peak seasons, crowded buses can affect the travel experience.

Da Nang to Hue by Motorbike

Traveling from Da Nang to Hue by motorbike is an exciting and adventurous journey that offers a unique way to explore the scenic landscapes of Vietnam. The freedom of a flexible itinerary allows travelers to visit hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations at their own pace. For budget-conscious travelers, motorbike rentals are affordable, making it an accessible option.

However, the trip requires experience in long-distance motorbike travel, as it can be physically tiring, particularly during hot or rainy weather. The road conditions can be unpredictable, and heavy traffic adds to safety concerns. Therefore, it’s crucial to have proper protective gear and navigation skills to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.

Hue Day Tour from Da Nang

The Hue Day Tour from Da Nang offers a convenient, guided experience for travelers interested in exploring the city’s cultural landmarks. A knowledgeable guide provides insights during the tour, enriching your understanding of each destination. It includes transportation and entry tickets, offering a hassle-free choice for travelers who prefer a structured itinerary.

However, it has some drawbacks like limited time at each stop. This may leave little room for personal exploration. The fixed schedule can also feel restrictive for those seeking more flexibility in their travel plans. Additionally, the cost of the tour may be higher compared to traveling independently.

Travel by plane

Da Nang to Hue by flight is a very short journey in the air, but not ideal for most travelers. Airport check-in and check-out take significant time, and getting to and from the airports adds both time and cost. Despite the quick flight, the total travel process becomes inefficient. This option is only suitable for those who suffer from severe motion sickness and want to avoid cars or trains.

Tips for traveling from Da Nang to Hue

Here are some helpful tips for traveling from Da Nang to Hue to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip:

To avoid heavy traffic, it’s a good idea to leave early in the morning or during off-peak hours. This will help you bypass the busiest times on the road and make your journey more efficient.

Whether you’re traveling by car, bus, or motorbike, select the option that best suits your comfort level and budget. Consider factors like travel time, cost, and convenience when making your decision.

If you choose to travel by motorbike, make sure you have the proper safety gear, including a helmet, and that you’re experienced in handling a motorbike for long-distance trips. This will help you stay safe during the journey.

While some urban areas may have card payment options, it’s advisable to carry cash, especially when stopping in rural areas where cards may not be accepted. Having local currency on hand will make your trip smoother.

The weather can get hot, so it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the trip. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun, especially if you’re traveling during the day.

Conclusion

Traveling from Da Nang to Hue is more than just a transfer between two cities—it’s an opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes and rich culture of Central Vietnam. Whether you choose the scenic Hai Van Pass by motorbike or train, or opt for a more relaxed ride by car or bus, the journey itself is unforgettable. While flying is possible, it’s not the most efficient choice for such a short distance. However you go, the route promises beauty, history, and adventure.