The route
The drive from Hoi An to Hue runs north through Da Nang and over the Hai Van Pass, a switchbacking coastal road with viewpoints over the South China Sea. Common stops include the Marble Mountains, the Lady Buddha at Son Tra, the pass itself and the lagoon at Lang Co. It is the journey, more than the destination, that people remember.
By motorbike or car
The classic way to ride the pass is a guided motorbike tour from $58, sitting behind a local driver so you can watch the scenery rather than the road. If you have luggage or prefer comfort, a private car transfer can be arranged with stops along the way, which also works if you are continuing to Hue rather than coming back.
What to see in Hue
Hue rewards the long drive with the walled Imperial Citadel, the royal tombs scattered along the Perfume River and a quieter, more historic feel than the coast. Because the round trip is long, many travelers treat this as a one-way move on their wider central Vietnam route rather than a same-day return.
Ride the Hai Van Pass
The great coastal road between Hoi An and Hue, with a local driver.
Preguntas Frecuentes
It is worth it mainly for the journey. The Hai Van Pass is one of the great coastal drives in Vietnam, and Hue itself has the Citadel and royal tombs. It is a long day, so many travelers prefer a one-way transfer with stops, continuing on to Hue rather than returning the same day.
About 120 km, or three to four hours each way depending on stops. With the Hai Van Pass, the Marble Mountains and Lang Co beach worth pausing for, allow a full day.
A private car is the most comfortable and lets you cover more in a day. The Hai Van Pass by motorbike, behind an experienced driver, is the more memorable option if you are happy on two wheels.
