VIP Limousine: Hue to Hoi An Trip

Traveling between Hue and Hoi An often involves choosing the right transport to maximize your time and comfort. This $18 per person bus service promises a quick, affordable way to enjoy some of Vietnam’s most iconic sights along the way. For about 3 to 4 hours, you’ll get a chance to see Bach Ma National Park, cruise through the bustling streets of Da Nang, crossing famous bridges like the Dragon and Han River bridges, and arrive in Hoi An ready to explore.

What we appreciate about this service is how it emphasizes saving time and embracing scenery. The trip is designed to include a notable stop at Bach Ma National Park, giving you a breath of fresh mountain air, and a scenic drive through Da Nang’s vibrant cityscape. The fact that your pickup and drop-off are carefully planned for major tourist spots means fewer worries and more time to enjoy your journey.

However, it’s worth mentioning that some reviews have flagged comfort and safety concerns. Rushing through the trip or overloading the bus seems to be a part of some travelers’ experiences, so if you prioritize a smooth and relaxing ride, this might not always be your best choice. Still, for those looking for value and a quick scenic transfer, this tour could fit the bill.

This trip is best suited for budget travelers, those who want a fast transfer with a glimpse of Vietnam’s landscapes, or anyone eager to combine travel with a bit of sightseeing en route to Hoi An. If comfort and quiet are top priorities, you might want to explore private options or smaller group tours.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $18, this trip offers good value for travelers who want to save money.
• Sightseeing Stops: Includes Bach Ma National Park and crossing Da Nang’s bridges, offering scenic views and photo opportunities.
• Time-Saving: Designed to minimize travel hassle, with planned departure and arrival points.
• Mixed Reviews on Comfort: Some travelers found it quick but uncomfortable and rushed.
• Safety Concerns: Reports of overloading and aggressive driving could be a consideration.
• Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers, which keeps the experience relatively manageable.

A Detailed Look at the Hue to Hoi An Trip

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The journey begins in Hue, at 19 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, a central spot easy to reach by public transport or walking. The bus, operated by Viet Nam Travel Bus, promises a mobile ticket that simplifies the process — just show your confirmation and hop on.

For $18 per person, you get a ride that’s approximately 3 to 4 hours long. While the price is attractive, the experience varies depending on your expectations. Some travelers note it as a good value, especially if all you want is a quick transfer, but others have found the comfort level wanting, describing it as “too fast and bumpy.”

The Scenic Stop at Bach Ma National Park

One of the highlights of this trip is the stop at Bach Ma National Park. The bus takes about an hour along La Son – Tuy Loan highway, winding through Bach Ma’s lush forested hills. Here, you can enjoy 15 minutes of free admission, giving you a quick taste of this protected area, famous for its cooler climate and panoramic views.

Travelers have appreciated this stop as a refreshing break, offering a chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air and snap some photos of steep mountains and dense greenery. It’s a brief stop, but well worth it for those interested in nature or wanting a bit of a break from the drive.

Crossing Da Nang and Its Famous Bridges

As the bus continues into Da Nang, you’ll pass over the Han River, crossing bridges that are architectural icons—Thuan Phuoc, Dragon, and Tran Thi Ly bridges. These structures are some of Vietnam’s most recognizable sights, especially at night when illuminated.

The drive through Da Nang offers a vivid contrast: from the peaceful forested mountains to the lively cityscape. If you’re into urban photography, this stretch is perfect for capturing dynamic city life and iconic bridges.

Practical Aspects of the Trip

The pick-up point in Hue is conveniently located at 19 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, a common gathering spot in the city center, making it accessible whether you’re staying in town or arriving from elsewhere. The drop-off point in Hoi An is at 445 Hai Bà Trưng Street, close to many hotels and the old town area.

The tour runs on a mobile ticket, so there’s no need to print anything, and the provider emphasizes timeliness—their vehicles are designed to run on schedule. But, beware—some reviews have mentioned fast driving that might be uncomfortable, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a more relaxed ride.

The Real-World Experience: Reviews and What They Tell Us

The reviews provide a balanced view of what to expect. One traveler, Kim Dien, described it as “Trajet rapide mais inconfortable” — a quick journey but at the expense of comfort, noting impatience with the fast driving and feeling shaken in the bus. She mentions her daughters felt unwell, highlighting that the speed and handling could be a concern for families or sensitive travelers.

Another traveler, Sophie, called the experience “Horrible”, criticizing the driver’s behavior and overcrowding. She warns about safety issues with 12 travelers and their luggage crammed into a small vehicle without enough space for secure luggage storage. This underscores that overloading and aggressive driving are real concerns.

Given these accounts, it’s clear that this tour might not suit travelers expecting luxury comfort or a relaxing ride. But if you’re someone who prioritizes efficiency and scenery over plush seats, this could still work, especially considering the low price.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This service is ideal for budget-conscious travelers, adventurous souls, or those simply needing a fast transfer with some scenic bits along the way. It’s perfect if you’re pressed for time and want to see a bit of Bach Ma and Da Nang’s bridges without paying much.

On the other hand, if you value comfort, safety, or a smooth ride, you might find this experience wanting. For families with small children or travelers prone to discomfort, a private transfer or smaller group service might be a better option.

The Sum Up: Is This the Right Choice?

For travelers looking to save money and gain a glimpse of Northern Vietnam’s natural and urban landscapes, this trip offers decent value. The scenic stop at Bach Ma and crossing through Da Nang’s impressive bridges are definite highlights that add a visual dimension to your journey.

However, the mixed reviews about comfort and safety remind us that this isn’t a luxury experience. It’s more of a functional transfer with scenery, suitable for adventurous, budget-minded travelers willing to accept some discomfort for the sake of saving time and money.

If you’re hoping for a stress-free, comfortable ride, consider alternatives. But if you’re after an efficient, scenic route that combines a mountain view with a cityscape, this trip can serve you well—just keep your expectations realistic.

FAQ

How long does the trip take?
Approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and stops.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the bus ride and a 15-minute free admission to Bach Ma National Park.

Where do I start and end the trip?
The pickup is at 19 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Hue, and the drop-off is at 445 Hai Bà Trưng, Hoi An.

Is this a private or group tour?
It’s a group service with a maximum of 20 travelers.

Are the vehicles eco-friendly?
Yes, the service emphasizes eco-friendly buses.

What should I be aware of regarding comfort?
Some reviews mention fast driving, bumpy rides, and overcrowding, so be prepared for a potentially hurried experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip.

Is there a safety concern?
Some travelers report overloading and aggressive driving, which could affect safety and comfort.

What is the scenery like during the drive?
Expect lush forests, mountain views at Bach Ma, and vibrant cityscapes crossing Da Nang.

Would this suit families?
It depends on your comfort preference; some travelers with children found the ride a bit too rough. It’s best for those comfortable with quick, potentially bumpy rides.

This Hue to Hoi An bus trip offers a cost-effective way to travel while catching some of Vietnam’s most striking sights. Its scenic stops and city crossings make it more than just a transfer. But, the mixed reviews about comfort and safety should prompt you to weigh your priorities carefully.

If you’re after quick, affordable transport and don’t mind a bumpy ride, this could be a practical choice. For those craving a more relaxed, comfortable journey, exploring private or smaller group options might be worth considering. Whatever you choose, enjoy the scenery and the new perspectives this trip offers.