1. Which is easier to access, Hue or Hoi An?
Does Hue or Hoi An have easier access? Both Hue and Hoi An are located in Central Vietnam. However, their accessibility differs slightly.
Hue is very well-connected. Phu Bai Airport, located near the city, is served by Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Vietjet Air. Direct flights from Hanoi to Hue take around 1 hour and 15 minutes, with ticket prices starting at 1,100,000 VND. Flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Hue take about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with ticket prices starting at 900,000 VND.
If you prefer traveling by train, Hue offers scenic routes from major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Ticket prices range from 400,000 VND to 900,000 VND, depending on your seating choice. The bus is another option, with rides from Hanoi to Hue costing around 400,000 - 700,000 VND and those from Ho Chi Minh City to Hue costing around 500,000 - 1,000,000 VND.
Hoi An, on the other hand, does not have its own Hoi An airport or train station. However, its proximity to Da Nang, which is only about 30 kilometers away, provides easy access for travelers. Da Nang International Airport connects Hoi An with various domestic and international destinations. From there, it is a quick taxi or bus ride from Da Nang to Hoi An.
Both Hue and Hoi An have many options for getting around the inner city. Xanh SM electric taxis are available in both destinations, offering an eco-friendly means of transport. You can also rent bicycles, rent motorbikes, or use ride-hailing services to explore the city at your own pace.
Exploring both Hue and Hoi An is also a viable option, as the distance from Hue to Hoi An is just over 120 kilometers.
>>> Explore: How to get to Hoi An? – Your best transportation guide
2. Is Hoi An or Hue better in terms of weather?
Whether you are considering Hue or Hoi An, the weather plays an important role in deciding the best time to visit.
Hue weather experiences a tropical monsoon climate with two main seasons: the rainy season (from September to January) and the dry season (from March to August). The most pleasant months to visit Hue are from January to April, when the weather is cool, perfect for exploring the city’s historical sites. For beach lovers, the ideal period is from June to August due to the hotter temperatures.
Hoi An weather also benefits from the tropical climate but with more defined dry and rainy seasons. The best time to visit Hoi An in Quang Nam is the dry season from February to April, when the skies are clear and the heat is manageable. By May, the temperatures rise, making it a popular time for beachgoers. Meanwhile, the rainy season from August to December can bring heavy rains and even floods.
>>> Check out Central Vietnam weather to plan your trip to Hoi An or Hue!
3. Hue or Hoi An, which is more interesting to explore?
Both Hue and Hoi An offer rich experiences for nature lovers, history buffs, and those interested in cultural immersion. Here is how they compare.
3.1. Natural attractions
Is Hue or Hoi An better in terms of natural attractions? Hue is known for its stunning landscapes which include mountains, rivers, and beaches. The iconic Perfume River winds through the city, offering scenic boat rides. Hue beaches like Lang Co Beach and Thuan An Beach are perfect for relaxing under the sun. Additionally, Tam Giang Lagoon is the largest lagoon in Southeast Asia and provides a unique ecosystem to explore. Some other must-sees in Hue are Trang Tien Bridge, Vong Canh Hill, etc.
Hoi An, while smaller in size, also offers plenty of natural attractions. Hoi An beaches such as An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach are well-known for their soft sands and gentle waves. The Cham Islands offer opportunities for snorkeling and diving. The peaceful countryside around Hoi An, with rice fields and coconut forests, provides a charming backdrop for eco-tours.
3.2. Cultural experiences
Hue, as the former capital of Vietnam, is a treasure trove of history. The city is home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hue Historic Citadel, which includes the Imperial City, Forbidden City, and royal tombs such as Tu Duc Tomb, Khai Dinh Tomb, etc. Visitors can also explore traditional craft villages such as the Incense Village in Hue, and sacred pagodas like Thien Mu Pagoda, Dieu De Pagoda, Tu Hieu Pagoda, and Tu Dam Pagoda. Other cultural attractions for visitors to look into are Dong Ba Market, Thai Hoa Palace, and An Dinh Palace.
Hoi An is celebrated for its remarkably well-preserved Hoi An Ancient Town. Once a bustling trading port, the streets of Hoi An are lined with old houses, temples, and assembly halls that reflect the blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences. Must-see attractions include the Japanese Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, Fujian Assembly Hall, My Son Sanctuary, Tra Que Vegetable Village, and Hoi An Silk Village. Visitors should also experience markets in Hoi An to have a glimpse of the local life. Another memorable experience in Hoi An is releasing lanterns on the Hoai River during the Hoi An lantern festival.
3.3. Entertainment options
Should you visit Hue or Hoi An? If you are looking for entertainment, Hue offers a mix of traditional and modern options. Dong Ba Market is a bustling hub where you can shop for local handicrafts, foods, and souvenirs. For those seeking tranquility, taking a boat ride along the Perfume River at sunset is a must. The vibrant Hue Night Walking Street also provides many unique experiences.
Hoi An nightlife is known for its laid-back but lively atmosphere. The city is dotted with Hoi An cafes, bars, and Hoi An night markets. Riverside streets are filled with vendors selling street food, souvenirs, and handcrafted items. At Hoi An Night Market, you can see colorful lanterns illuminate the streets and create a magical ambiance. Indulging in Hoi An boat rides and Hoi An bike tours is also a great option for the night.
For those looking to add even more excitement to their trip, come to VinWonders Nam Hoi An. Located just a short drive from the heart of the city, this massive amusement park offers a wide range of attractions for visitors of all ages. VinWonders Nam Hoi An seamlessly blends Vietnamese heritage with modern games, making it a perfect stop for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Book tickets of VinWonders Nam Hoi An
3.4. Culinary delights
Central Vietnamese food in general and Hue food in particular are renowned for their balance of flavor and presentation. Signature dishes like bun bo Hue and banh canh are local favorites, while specialties like com hen and com am phu showcase Hue’s royal roots. For lighter bites, try banh bot loc, banh khoai, and che bot loc heo quay. In the evening, you can explore Hue’s Western Quarter, where lively bars, restaurants, and coffee in Hue bring the perfect conclusion to your culinary adventure.
Hoi An is also a paradise for food lovers. Dishes like cao lau, mi Quang, Hoi An chicken rice, and the world-famous banh mi Hoi An are must-tries. The city’s culinary traditions are influenced by its history as a trading port, and this blend of flavors can be tasted in every dish. Hoi An is also famous for Hoi An street food, and wandering the alleys to discover small, family-run eateries is an experience in itself.
>>> Check out the things to do in Hoi An!
4. Which is the best place to stay, Hoi An or Hue?
Both Hue and Hoi An offer a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences.
Hue has a mix of budget-friendly hotels and high-end resorts. Staying in the city center provides easy access to major attractions, with rates ranging from 200,000 VND per night for hotels to 8,000,000 VND per night for resorts.
Where to stay in Hoi An? Hoi An is known for its charming homestays and boutique hotels. Many homestays are set in beautifully renovated traditional houses, offering a cozy experience for guests. The rates are affordable, with many options under 500,000 VND per night.
For those seeking luxury, Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An provides a pampering escape. Located along the coast, this resort combines top-notch amenities with stunning ocean views.
Book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An
Whether you are drawn to Hue or Hoi An, both destinations offer unforgettable experiences. With rich heritage, beautiful landscapes, and mouth-watering cuisine, there is no wrong choice. So, why not plan a trip to both Hue and Hoi An and experience the best of central Vietnam?
