Phong nha to hoi an - A travel guide

In fact, the journey itself is an adventure from Phong Nha to Hoi An: magnificent landscapes, cultures, and unforgettable memories. This guide covers all aspects that will make your journey smooth and enjoyable, from how you will travel to the things you could check en route, and even tips to enjoy this time.

Overview: Phong Nha and Hoi An

It is fully icingly beautiful with its caves and landscapes, the most prominent being Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. The park houses some of the gigantic and most breathtaking caves in the world, including the prominent Phong Nha Cave and Son Doong Cave, which is the biggest cave in the world.

Hoi An is like this very quaint old town, super famous on account of some absolutely amazing, really well-preserved buildings, bustling markets, and cool history as a trading spot—it was able to make it up to UNESCO World Heritage Centre. It's really an attractive city for visitors to its streets, lined with lanterns, classic wooden houses, and delicious food.

Distance and Travel Time

Thus, it is about 300 kilometres from Phong Nha to Hoi An, or about 186 miles. The time to get there really differs a lot according to how you get there:

• By Bus: 6 to 11 hrs

• By Private Car: 6 to 7 hrs

• By Train: 7 to 9 hours

Transportation Options

By Bus

Buses between Phong Nha and Hoi An are ultra-popular and very cheap. A number of companies operate this route, offering a range of different levels of comfort.
Journey time: From 6 to 11 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the service taken.
Recommended Bus Companies:

• Hanh Luyen is for comfort in sitting and safety.

• Queen offers a range from sleeper buses to other types.

By Private Car

If you want some comfort and flexibility, it is highly recommended that you get a private car to travel from Phong Nha to Hoi An. You will make stops en-route at some cool spots like the Marble Mountains and My Son Sanctuary.
Cost: Normally ranges from $60 to $100, though this depends on the car type and who services it.

By Train

There is no direct train from Phong Nha to Hoi An. You can take the nearest station in Dong Hoi going to Danang and then have a bus or taxi going to Hoi An. The total time consumed for travel will be 9 to 10 hours.
Train Services: Vietnam Railways operates several day trains. Booking can be made online as well as at the station.

Places to Visit en-route

The drive from Phong Nha to Hoi An is rather one endless adventure through nature and cultural heritage treasures that include:

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

If time allows, visit the national park before leaving Phong Nha. This can include cave trips, trekking, and kayaking on the river. A number of stunning limestone karsts and wildlife also inhabit the park.

Dong Hoi

Stop in Dong Hoi for the Quang Binh Museum and the myriad beautiful beaches lining the coast. It's the place to have a meal before heading further on.

Marble Mountains

The Marble Mountains lay just outside Da Nang and consist of five hills of marble and limestone. Amongst others, you will find caves, temples, and a panoramic view from the top.

My Son Sanctuary

My Son is this huge UNESCO World Heritage site, pretty much an ancient Hindu temple complex from the days of the Champa Kingdom, full of history—a glimpse into a bit of the past that is Vietnam.

Da Nang

If time allows, spend a few hours wandering around Da Nang to see the famous Dragon Bridge, take a sunbath on My Khe Beach, or haggle at the local markets.
If I were you, I would take an extra day to take a ferry from hoi an to cham island and relax there all day! 

Tips for Your Hoi an trip

• Pre-booking: Tickets should be pre-booked in advance, either through a bus, train, or a private car. This saves a lot of time and ensures availability.

• Snacks and water: Long rides can be tiring; it's always a good idea to have some snacks and water with you, especially when traveling by bus.

• Weather check: Central Vietnam gets a lot of rainfall, particularly from September to December due to the monsoon. Check the weather and plan accordingly.

• Local currency: Try to carry enough Vietnamese Dong with you while sightseeing as small stall owners might not accept credit cards.

FAQ Section

1. How far is Phong Nha from Hoi An?
   It is about 300 km, approximately 186 miles.

2. What is the best way to get from Phong Nha to Hoi An?
   It depends on your preference: buses are cheaper, cars are more comfortable, and the train offers scenic views.

3. How long does it take to travel from Phong Nha to Hoi An?
   By bus: 6 to 11 hours, by private car: 6 to 7 hours, by train: 7 to 9 hours.

4. Are there any interesting places to see along the way?
   Some major stops include Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Dong Hoi, Marble Mountains, and My Son Sanctuary.

5. What should I prepare for traveling?
   Pack some snacks, water, and maybe a light jacket if traveling during the rainy months.

6. Is it safe to travel from Phong Nha to Hoi An?
   Vietnam is generally safe, but always be mindful of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

7. Can I book transportation online?
   Yes, most bus and train services are available online, making it easy to book in advance.

Enjoy your trip from Phong Nha to Hoi An, full of exploration and discovery. Travel safely during your Vietnam Tour!