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FTV MKT • April 8, 2025

Da Nang Transport Guide: How to Get In, Out, and Around

1. Introduction: Why You Need a Da Nang Transport Guide

Da Nang Transport Guide

Da Nang is one of Vietnam’s most traveler-friendly cities — clean, organized, and modern. But if it’s your first time visiting, figuring out how to get around Da Nang can be confusing.

This Da Nang Transport Guide covers everything you need to know about:

  • Getting to the city by air, train, or bus
  • Getting from the airport to your hotel
  • Exploring nearby destinations like Hoi An or Hue
  • Choosing between Grab, taxis, buses, or motorbike rentals

Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or on a short business trip, this guide will help you move around Da Nang like a local.

Want ideas on what to do once you get there? Check our Top Things to Do in Da Nang.

2. How to Get to Da Nang (Air, Train, Bus)

Da Nang is one of the most connected cities in Vietnam, with easy access by plane, train, and bus.

✈️ By Air – Da Nang International Airport (DAD):

Da Nang Transport Guide
  • Location: Just 3 km from the city center
  • Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, Bamboo Airways, AirAsia, Korean Air
  • Direct flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Seoul, Singapore

💡 Tip: Flying is the fastest way to get to Da Nang, especially from Hanoi or Saigon (1h20m flight time)

🚆 By Train:

Da Nang Transport Guide
  • Station: Da Nang Railway Station (near city center)
  • Routes: Daily trains from Hue, Hanoi, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City
  • Duration:
  • Hue to Da Nang: 2.5–3 hours
  • Hanoi to Da Nang: 14–16 hours
  • HCMC to Da Nang: 16–18 hours
  • Book online at Vietnam Railways

🚌 By Bus or Limousine Van:

Da Nang Transport Guide
  • Buses from major cities like Hue, Hoi An, and Nha Trang arrive daily
  • Futa Bus Lines and The Sinh Tourist are popular operators
  • Limousine vans (e.g. from Hoi An) are more comfortable and faster

Need more route ideas? Visit our How to Get to Da Nang Guide.

3. Getting From Da Nang Airport to City Center

Da Nang Airport is super close to the city, so transfers are fast and cheap.

Best transport options:

🚖 Taxi:

Da Nang Transport Guide
  • Fare: 100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–6)
  • Official brands: Mai Linh, Vinasun, Airport Taxi
  • Tip: Use the official taxi queue outside Terminal 1 or 2

📱 Grab / Be App:

Da Nang Transport Guide
  • Fare: 80,000–120,000 VND (~$3–5)
  • Requires Vietnamese SIM or airport Wi-Fi
  • Safer and often cheaper than metered taxis

🚌 Public Bus:

Da Nang Transport Guide
  • No direct public bus from airport
  • Bus stations are 10–15 min walk away → not ideal with luggage

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re staying near My Khe Beach or Son Tra Peninsula, Grab is the most convenient.

Want to compare prices? See our Da Nang Airport Transfer Guide.

4. Transportation Between Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue

Two of Central Vietnam’s best destinations — Hoi An and Hue — are just a short ride from Da Nang.

🛵 Da Nang to Hoi An (30 km):

  • Private car: ~300,000–400,000 VND
  • GrabCar: ~250,000–350,000 VND
  • Bus #1: 20,000 VND – slow, crowded, but cheap
  • Limousine van: ~120,000 VND – comfortable, hotel pickup

💡 Travel time: ~45 minutes by car

🚘 Da Nang to Hue (100 km):

  • Train: 2.5–3 hours – scenic ride over Hai Van Pass
  • Private car: 1.5–2 hours via tunnel or Hai Van Pass route
  • Limousine van: ~150,000–200,000 VND
  • Bus: Futa, The Sinh Tourist, etc.

💡 Want views? Take the train or Hai Van Pass route by motorbike or car.

For route comparisons, read our Da Nang to Hoi An vs Hue Transport Guide.

5. Using Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab, Be, Gojek)

If you're new to Vietnam, you’ll be glad to know that ride-hailing apps in Da Nang are reliable, cheap, and widely used.

🚖 Taxis in Da Nang:

  • Official brands:
  • Mai Linh (green cars)
  • Vinasun (white/green cars)
  • Tien Sa Taxi
  • Rates: 15,000–20,000 VND/km
  • Airport, hotels, and shopping malls all have taxi queues
  • Always ask to use the meter or agree on a fixed fare

📱 Grab, Be, and Gojek:

  • Grab: Most reliable for car and motorbike rides
  • Be: Good alternative, often cheaper than Grab
  • Gojek: More popular in Hanoi and Saigon, limited in Da Nang

Pro tip: If you're going short distances (<5 km), motorbike rides are faster and cost only 10,000–20,000 VND.

Need a ride from the airport? Read our Grab vs Taxi in Vietnam Guide.

6. Renting Motorbikes and Bicycles in Da Nang

Motorbike rental is one of the most affordable and flexible ways to explore Da Nang, especially if you're planning beach days or short day trips.

🛵 Motorbike rental:

  • Daily price: 120,000–180,000 VND (~$5–8/day)
  • Common models: Honda Wave, Air Blade, Vision
  • Rent from:
  • Your hotel
  • Local rental shops (check Google reviews)
  • Requirements: Passport (some shops may request ID deposit)

🚲 Bicycle rental:

  • Ideal for exploring My Khe Beach, Son Tra, or An Thuong
  • Price: 30,000–50,000 VND/day
  • Some hostels offer free bicycles

Safety tip:

  • Always wear a helmet
  • Check brakes, tires, and lights before riding
  • Bring your international driver’s license (IDP) for full legal coverage

Want to ride up Hai Van Pass? Check our Motorbike Guide to Da Nang.

7. Public Bus System: Routes, Prices, and Tips

Da Nang’s public transport network is basic but functional, and best for budget travelers or those staying long-term.

🚌 Key routes:

  • Bus 01: Da Nang ↔ Hoi An (~20,000 VND)
  • Bus 06: Da Nang ↔ Marble Mountains
  • Bus 12: Da Nang ↔ Linh Ung Pagoda (Son Tra Peninsula)
  • Buses operate from 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM

Prices:

  • Local bus: 5,000–20,000 VND depending on distance
  • No change for large bills — bring small notes

Tips:

  • Download the BusMap app for real-time schedules
  • No English signs on many buses — show your destination to the driver
  • Not ideal with large luggage or during heavy rain

Want to travel to Hoi An by bus? Check our Complete Bus Guide: Da Nang to Hoi An.

8. Private Car Hire and Hotel Transfers

If you want comfort, privacy, or a multi-stop day trip, private cars are the way to go — especially for families or groups.

🚘 How to book:

  • Through your hotel concierge
  • Apps like Klook, GetYourGuide, or local travel agencies
  • Car with driver options for half-day or full-day tours

Popular routes & rates:

  • Da Nang → Hoi An: 300,000–400,000 VND
  • Da Nang → Ba Na Hills: 500,000–600,000 VND round-trip
  • Full-day rental (with driver): 1,000,000–1,300,000 VND (~$40–55)

Benefits:

  • Flexible itinerary
  • English-speaking drivers (on request)
  • No surprise charges

Looking for a family-friendly trip? Check our Private Day Trips from Da Nang.

9. Railway Station Guide: Da Nang Train Station

Da Nang Railway Station is a key stop on Vietnam’s north–south Reunification Express, offering convenient train connections to major cities.

📍 Location:

  • 791 Hai Phong Street, Thanh Khe District
  • ~10 minutes by taxi from the city center

🚆 Train routes from Da Nang:

  • Da Nang → Hue: 2.5–3 hours (beautiful views over Hai Van Pass)
  • Da Nang → Hanoi: 14–16 hours
  • Da Nang → Ho Chi Minh City: 16–18 hours
  • Da Nang → Nha Trang: 8–9 hours

Booking tips:

  • Book tickets online at dsvn.vn or through 12Go Asia
  • Choose soft seat with A/C or soft sleeper for long rides
  • Trains in Vietnam can be slow but very scenic and safe

Want to ride through Hai Van Pass by train? Don’t miss our Da Nang to Hue Scenic Rail Guide.

10. Intercity Buses: Limousine Vans, Open Tours, and Local Buses

If you prefer road travel, intercity buses and limousines offer cheap and flexible options to reach nearby cities.

🚐 Limousine vans:

  • Best for routes to Hoi An, Hue, Quang Ngai
  • Comfortable seats, A/C, free water
  • Providers: Hoi An Express, Go Travel, April Adventure
  • Fare: 100,000–250,000 VND depending on destination

🚌 Open tour buses:

  • Used by backpackers & tourists
  • Operators: The Sinh Tourist, Futa Bus Lines, Queen Café
  • Drop-off at hotel or bus office

🧭 Where to book:

  • Online via 12Go Asia
  • Local travel agents in My Khe Beach area
  • Hotels and hostels can arrange pickup

💡 Tip: Choose vans for comfort, buses for budget, and trains for views.

Need help choosing? Read our Da Nang Bus vs Van Comparison.

11. How to Get to Ba Na Hills, Marble Mountains, and Son Tra

Da Nang Transport Guide

Some of Da Nang’s most famous attractions are outside the main city. Here’s how to get there easily.

🏰 Ba Na Hills (30 km):

  • Private car: 500,000–600,000 VND round-trip
  • Shuttle bus (via Sun World): ~150,000 VND
  • Grab: May not be available for return trip — plan ahead
  • Travel time: 1 hour

🪨 Marble Mountains (10 km):

  • Grab or Taxi: 100,000–150,000 VND
  • Bus #1 to Hoi An: Stops nearby, only 20,000 VND
  • Parking available if riding motorbike

🌿 Son Tra Peninsula (10–15 km):

  • Motorbike: Best option to explore multiple stops
  • Private car: 400,000–500,000 VND for half day
  • Must-sees: Lady Buddha, Ban Co Peak, Monkey Mountain

Planning a half-day tour? See our Da Nang Short Trips Guide.

12. Water Transport: Ferries, Han River Cruises, and Boat Rentals

While not a transport necessity, water travel in Da Nang adds a scenic and relaxing touch to your trip.

🛥️ Han River Cruise:

  • Departs nightly from Bach Dang Wharf
  • Price: 150,000–200,000 VND/person
  • Includes views of Dragon Bridge, Tran Thi Ly Bridge, city skyline
  • Duration: ~45–60 minutes

🚤 Private boat rentals:

  • Available for small groups via local tour companies
  • Custom sunset cruises, dinner on board, or fishing trips

🛳️ Ferries:

  • Limited options – only short-distance ferries for locals
  • No major public ferry to tourist islands from Da Nang (Cham Island departs from Cua Dai in Hoi An)

Want a romantic river experience? Read our Best Han River Cruise Options.

13. Da Nang for Pedestrians: Walking-Friendly Zones

Da Nang is a walkable city, especially along its coastline and riverfront. While not every area has wide sidewalks, several zones are perfect for exploring on foot.

🚶 Best areas to walk:

  • My Khe Beach Promenade – sunrise strolls, cafés, beach views
  • Bach Dang Street – riverside walk near Dragon Bridge, Han Market
  • An Thuong Tourist Area – home to international restaurants and shops
  • Son Tra Night Market – pedestrian-only during evenings

Walking tips:

  • Wear a hat and sunscreen — sidewalks have minimal shade
  • Traffic can be chaotic — cross at marked zebra crossings
  • Avoid walking during mid-day heat (11 AM – 2 PM)

💡 Use Google Maps offline mode to navigate small alleys and hidden spots.

14. Best Transport Options for Families, Solo Travelers, and Groups

Depending on your travel style, here’s what works best:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families with Kids:

  • 🚘 Private car with driver (air-conditioned, child seat on request)
  • 🚌 Shuttle to Ba Na Hills or Hoi An for day trips
  • 🛵 Avoid motorbikes for safety

🧍 Solo Travelers:

  • 🛵 Rent a motorbike for flexibility
  • 📱 Use GrabBike for short trips
  • 🚍 Use local buses for budget-friendly travel

👥 Groups of 4+:

  • 🚐 Limousine vans or 7-seater private car
  • 🧭 Pre-book day tours for convenience
  • 🎟️ Group tickets available for attractions like Sun World Ba Na Hills

Need a personalized plan? Read our Da Nang for Every Traveler Type Guide.

15. Local Etiquette and Safety Tips When Getting Around

Understanding Vietnamese travel etiquette helps ensure a smooth trip.

👍 Do:

  • Greet drivers with a smile or “xin chào”
  • Carry small change (10k–50k VND) for taxis or buses
  • Wear a helmet when on a motorbike — it’s the law

🚫 Don’t:

  • Expect drivers to speak fluent English — use translation apps
  • Haggle aggressively with drivers
  • Leave bags unattended in open vehicles (especially bikes)

Bonus:

  • 🚥 Red lights aren’t always respected by motorbikes — stay alert!
  • 📲 Use Google Translate or GrabChat for directions

Check out our Vietnam Travel Safety Guide for more insider tips.

16. FAQs About Transport in Da Nang

Is Grab available everywhere in Da Nang?

Yes. GrabCar and GrabBike are widely available from airport to beaches.

Can I use a foreign driver’s license to rent a motorbike?

You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) valid in Vietnam. Some rentals may not ask, but insurance won’t cover you without it.

Are buses tourist-friendly?

Partially. Buses are safe and cheap, but few signs are in English. Download BusMap for help.

Is it safe to ride a motorbike in Da Nang?

Yes — if you have experience. Traffic is calmer than in Hanoi or Saigon but still unpredictable.

What’s the fastest way to Hoi An?

Private car or Grab — 45 minutes, door-to-door.

Still unsure? Read our Vietnam Transport FAQs.

17. Final Transport Tips for a Smooth Da Nang Trip

Before wrapping up, here’s a quick checklist to make sure your Da Nang transport experience is smooth from start to finish.

✈️ Arrival:

  • ✅ Pre-book airport pickup or install Grab
  • ✅ Exchange 500,000–1,000,000 VND at the airport
  • ✅ Get a SIM card for app-based transport

🚍 Getting Around:

  • ✅ Use Grab or Be for short trips
  • ✅ Rent a bike only if experienced
  • ✅ Use a private car for trips to Ba Na Hills or Hoi An
  • ✅ Download Google Maps, BusMap, and Google Translate

🛫 Departure:

  • ✅ Confirm airport terminal and airline (domestic vs. international)
  • ✅ Leave 60–90 mins for city-to-airport ride
  • ✅ Return rented motorbikes on time to avoid late fees

No matter how long you stay, having the right transport strategy will make your Da Nang trip stress-free and more enjoyable.

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