If you’re looking for an inspiring adventure from the highlands to the coast, the journey from Da Lat to Hoi An is ideal. This trip offers a chance to explore natural beauty and immerses you in Central Vietnam’s culture. With fascinating experiences, this trip will take you through famous landmarks and exciting stops.
Why take this trip from Da Lat to Hoi An?
The journey from Da Lat to Hoi An allows you to explore the beauty of Central Vietnam and experience its rich and fascinating culture.
Discover the natural beauty and culture of Central Vietnam
Central Vietnam is renowned for its diverse natural scenery, from vast forests to pristine beaches. The journey from Da Lat to Hoi An will lead you through many captivating stops, from majestic waterfalls to lush green beaches. This is also an opportunity to learn about the local culture, from traditional villages to historical sites.
Enjoy the journey from the Highlands to the sea
Starting from Da Lat – the city of flowers located on the plateau, you will travel through winding roads, admiring the lush scenery of pine forests before heading toward the coastal region with some of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches. Hoi An, with its ancient architecture and tranquil pace of life, is the perfect destination to conclude your trip.
How to move from Da Lat to Hoi An
There are various ways to travel from Da Lat to Hoi An. You can choose between motorcycles, cars, buses, or planes depending on your preferences and conditions.
By motorcycle/car
If you love freedom and want to enjoy every stretch of the road, a motorcycle or car will be an ideal option. On the way, you can stop at scenic spots like Pongour Waterfall or Mui Ne Beach.
- Route details: From Da Lat, take National Highway 20, passing famous places like Bao Loc and Phan Thiet, then turn onto National Highway 1A to head to Central Vietnam.
- Beautiful stops: Pongour Waterfall, Mui Ne Beach, the ancient capital of Hue, and the vineyards of Ninh Thuan are must-see spots along the way.
- Safe travel tips: Central Vietnam’s mountain passes and highways are beautiful but can be risky, especially during the rainy season. Check your vehicle thoroughly before the trip and maintain a safe speed.
By bus
Taking a bus is a popular option for a comfortable trip without worrying about driving. Reputable bus companies like Phuong Trang and Mai Linh offer services from Da Lat to Hoi An at reasonable prices.
- Ticket prices: Range from 350,000 VND to 600,000 VND, depending on the bus company and service quality.
- Travel time: The trip takes about 12-15 hours, depending on the route and bus stops.
By plane
To save time, you can fly from Lien Khuong Airport (Da Lat) to Da Nang Airport, then travel about 30 km to Hoi An.
- Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways all have flights from Da Lat to Da Nang.
- Flight time: Around 1 hour and 15 minutes, saving you significant time compared to road travel.
Notable stops along the journey
The trip from Da Lat to Hoi An takes you through many famous landmarks. You can plan to stop at these places to rest and explore.
Pongour Waterfall, Da Lat
Known as the “First Waterfall of the Southern Sky”, with a height of 40 meters and over 100 meters wide, Pongour is a great stop to enjoy the wild beauty of nature and capture memorable photos.
Mui Ne Beach, Phan Thiet
If you want to relax on a beach, Mui Ne is an ideal choice. This beach is famous for its long white sand dunes and majestic natural scenery. It’s also a place to enjoy fresh seafood from the sea.
Vineyards in Ninh Thuan
You can stop by the vineyards for a break and drink some fresh juice. At the vineyards, you can freely explore and experience grape picking at very affordable prices. Notable vineyards include Thai An, Ngoc Nga and Thanh Thuy.
Dai Lanh Lighthouse, Phu Yen
One of the most famous lighthouses in Vietnam was built during the French colonial period in 1890. From the top, you can see the vast sea, towering mountains, smooth white sand beaches and drive along the most scenic coastal road in Phu Yen.
The Ancient Capital of Hue
Before reaching Hoi An, take some time to explore the ancient capital of Hue, which has outstanding historical sites like the Hue Imperial Citadel, Tu Duc Tomb and Thien Mu Pagoda. Hue is also famous for its royal cuisine, which is worth enjoying.
Exploring Hoi An
Hoi An, with its ancient architecture and rich culture, is always a must-visit destination. Here are some standout places to explore in Hoi An.
Hoi An Ancient Town:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its ancient wooden houses, assembly halls, and temples. Strolling around the old town at night, you’ll witness a romantic scene with colorful lanterns.
Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Ancient House, Fujian Assembly Hall:
The Japanese Covered Bridge is a symbol of Hoi An with its unique architecture blending Japanese and Vietnamese cultures. You should also visit Tan Ky Ancient House and Fujian Assembly Hall to learn more about the history through these ancient structures.
My Son Sanctuary:
A UNESCO-recognized architectural site of the ancient Champa Kingdom, renowned for its unique construction and sculpture techniques. Despite significant damage from war and time, My Son still retains its ancient charm and attracts visitors.
Traditional villages:
- Thanh Ha pottery village: Where you can make pottery yourself and bring home your creations.
- Tra Que vegetable village: A place to visit and experience farming, as well as enjoy delicious meals made from fresh vegetables.
- Hoi An fishing village: A chance for those who want to learn about the life of coastal residents and taste the local cuisine.
Enjoy Hoi An’s cuisine
Hoi An’s cuisine is a must-try for any visitor, with its unique blend of flavors and local ingredients. Dishes like Cao lau, with its chewy noodles and barbecued pork, White Rose Dumplings (banh bao vai vac), delicately filled with shrimp and pork, and Mi Quang a noodle dish with a rich, flavorful broth, are some of the standout specialities. These dishes reflect the town’s rich cultural heritage and can be enjoyed at local eateries throughout Hoi An.
Night activities
Hoi An at night is magical, offering a variety of activities that capture the town’s charm. You can release colorful lanterns onto the Hoai River, a serene and symbolic experience that fills the water with glowing lights. Strolling through the bustling night market, you’ll find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicious street food to sample. The lantern-lit streets, traditional music performances, and lively atmosphere create a romantic and unforgettable evening, making Hoi An’s night culture truly unique.
Tips for a safe trip from Da Lat to Hoi An
To ensure a safe trip, keep these points in mind:
- Ensure your vehicle is fully maintained before the journey.
- Pack your luggage neatly.
- If traveling by bus or plane, pay attention to your departure date and time.
- Check the weather forecast.
- Bring necessary medicines.
- Always obey traffic rules.
The journey from Da Lat to Hoi An provides unforgettable travel experiences and helps you learn more about the culture and people of Central Vietnam. This is a perfect trip for those who love exploration and want to enjoy the beauty of nature, from majestic highlands to poetic beaches. Follow Vietnam Travel Tips for more travel knowledge about Vietnam!