Why choose between Da Nang or Hoi An?
Da Nang and Hoi An are only about 30 km apart, so it’s easy to visit one from the other — even just for the day. But many travelers with just 2 to 4 days in Central Vietnam wonder: should you stay in Da Nang or Hoi An? Is one better as a base, or should you try to fit in both?
Maybe you’re flying into Da Nang and considering a quick visit to Hoi An. Or maybe you’re drawn to Hoi An’s charm but unsure if it’s worth more than a day trip. The answer depends a lot on your travel style — and that’s what this guide will break down.
Tip: Hoi An is more than the Old Town
When people think of Hoi An, they often picture the lantern-lit Ancient Town — beautiful but also very touristy. But the Hoi An area also includes relaxed beach zones like An Bang and peaceful countryside with rice paddies and quiet roads. If the Old Town feels too busy, you can stay in these outer areas for a calmer experience.
That said, Da Nang offers a much more local feel overall, plus modern comforts, better transport, and beachside convenience. So let’s compare the two — starting with the basics.
Distance & logistics
Getting there
Whether you’re flying or taking the train, you’ll arrive in Da Nang first. Hoi An doesn’t have an airport or train station, so all travelers heading there by air or rail go through Da Nang International Airport or Da Nang Railway Station. From there, it’s a straightforward transfer south to Hoi An.
Between Da Nang and Hoi An
The distance between Da Nang and Hoi An is about 30 km, which takes 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic and your mode of transport. You can get between them easily by taxi, Grab, shuttle bus, or private car. Many travelers stay in one and visit the other on a day trip, especially since the route is scenic and well-connected.
Atmosphere & setting
When choosing between Hoi An or Da Nang, a big factor is the overall feel of each place. The two cities are close together but have very different vibes. Da Nang is a growing beach city — modern, lively, and spread out. Hoi An, on the other hand, is a smaller town known for its charm, lantern-lit streets, and countryside surroundings.
If you’re deciding what to choose: Da Nang or Hoi An, ask yourself what kind of atmosphere you prefer — city energy or small-town charm?
Hoi An – Calm, Charming, and Compact
- Old Town Feel – Historic, pedestrian-friendly, full of lanterns and yellow-painted buildings
- Quieter Beach & Countryside – Areas like An Bang and Cam Thanh are peaceful, with rice fields and relaxed coastal roads
- Touristy but Intimate – The Old Town gets crowded, but the overall vibe is still small-scale and walkable
- Cultural Ambience – Feels like a destination designed for slow travel and immersion
Da Nang – Lively, Spacious, and Coastal
- Beach City Feel – Modern city with long beaches, bridges, and sea views
- Urban Energy – Lots of cafes, restaurants, markets, and local life
- Mix of Tourist and Local – My Khe area is popular with tourists, but most of the city is local and untouristy
- More Spread Out – Not as walkable, but more room to explore and more things going on
Things to do
When comparing Hoi An or Da Nang in terms of activities, it really comes down to style and pace. Hoi An is great for slower, cultural experiences — walking, biking, learning. Da Nang leans more toward urban life mixed with beach time — think local markets, nightlife, and modern attractions. Here’s what to expect in each city:
Hoi An – Cultural, Relaxed, and Hands-On
- Explore the Ancient Town – Wander through lantern-lit streets, temples, and heritage buildings
- Cycle the Countryside – Ride through rice paddies, coconut groves, and quiet rural roads
- Relax at the Beach – An Bang and Cua Dai are nearby, peaceful, and good for unwinding
- Join a Cooking Class – Learn to make local dishes like cao lau or white rose dumplings
- Take a Boat or Basket Boat Tour – Ride a sampan on the Thu Bon River or spin in a basket boat in Cam Thanh
Da Nang – Local, Lively, and Varied
- Hit the Beach – My Khe and Non Nuoc are wide, clean, and great for swimming or sunbathing
- Experience City Life – Grab a coffee, visit local eateries, or explore shopping streets
- Visit Temples & Pagodas – Marble Mountains, Linh Ung Pagoda, and small local shrines
- See the City at Night – Rooftop bars, riverside walks, bridges that light up (Dragon Bridge!)
- Browse Local Markets – Han Market, Con Market, and smaller neighborhood spots full of daily life
Culture & History
When it comes to culture and history, the difference between Hoi An and Da Nang is clear — but both have something to offer, depending on what kind of experience you want.
Hoi An is rich in history, with its Ancient Town reflecting centuries of trade and cultural exchange. But while the setting is beautiful and full of tradition, much of the cultural activity here — from performances to craft villages — is curated for tourists.
Da Nang, on the other hand, is more modern and doesn’t have the same preserved historic center. But what it lacks in “old town” charm, it makes up for with a stronger sense of local, everyday culture. It’s less staged and more real — from street-side cafés to local pagodas, family-owned shops, and community events.
Hoi An – Historic, Scenic, and Curated
- Well-preserved Old Town with Chinese, Japanese, and French influence
- Traditional crafts, museums, and cultural performances (often for tourists)
- Strong historical identity as a trading port
- Beautiful but more focused on the tourist experience
Da Nang – Modern, Local, and Lived-In
- Fewer historical sites, but still home to Cham ruins and colonial churches
- Real, everyday Vietnamese life — markets, family businesses, neighborhood temples
- Local festivals and traditions are less advertised, but more authentic
- Cultural vibe comes more from people and daily rhythm than from attractions
Beaches
If beach time is a big part of your trip, this might be the deciding factor in choosing Da Nang or Hoi An. Both cities have beaches, but they’re quite different in feel, layout, and accessibility.
Da Nang is known for its long, wide stretches of sand — especially My Khe Beach, which is often considered one of the best beaches in Vietnam. It’s clean, spacious, and easy to reach, with cafés, shops, and hotels right across the street. It feels like a proper city beach, blending urban energy with laid-back coastal life.
Hoi An’s beaches, like An Bang and Cua Dai, have a more local, low-key atmosphere. There’s no main road running directly along the beach, and the beachfront is dotted with smaller bars and guesthouses. However, beach quality can vary — erosion is a recurring issue, especially at Cua Dai.
Da Nang – Bigger, Cleaner, and More Developed
- My Khe Beach is wide, sandy, and well-kept
- Easy access from hotels, restaurants, and the city center
- Great for swimming, walking, and beachside cafés
- Very photogenic and more lively
Hoi An – Quieter and More Relaxed
- An Bang is the best option: calm, casual, and not too built up
- Cua Dai is less reliable due to erosion, but still peaceful
- Feels more local and rural, but with fewer services
Tip: What about beaches between Da Nang and Hoi An?
In between the two cities is Non Nuoc Beach, home to large beachfront resorts and golf courses. It’s scenic and quiet, but not walkable to either Hoi An or Da Nang — so you miss out on the restaurants, nightlife, and local experiences of both cities. It can be a good option if you want a self-contained beach resort, but less ideal if you plan to explore.
Food & nightlife
Food and nightlife are another area where Hoi An and Da Nang offer very different experiences. Both cities have great food scenes, but the scale, variety, and setting vary a lot. So when choosing between Da Nang or Hoi An, think about how important dining options and evening atmosphere are to your trip.
Hoi An has fewer restaurants overall, but still plenty to keep most travelers happy. Inside the Old Town, expect mostly Vietnamese food, from local specialties like cao lau and white rose dumplings to a few spots that offer basic Western dishes. Around An Bang Beach, you’ll find more relaxed beach bars and cafes with international menus.
Da Nang, being a much larger city, has a wider food scene — from local seafood joints and street food to Italian, Greek, Turkish, Mexican, and more. You can find everything from bánh xèo to burgers.
As for nightlife:
Hoi An has a handful of bars and riverside cafés, especially in the Old Town. It’s more about ambience than partying. The lantern-lit streets in the evening are stunning and worth seeing at least once.
Da Nang has a stronger nightlife scene with rooftop bars, beach clubs, and riverside venues. While it’s not on the same level as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, it still offers more variety than Hoi An.
Hoi An – Cozy and Romantic
- Traditional Vietnamese cuisine in the Old Town
- Some international options, especially near An Bang
- Peaceful night vibe with lanterns, boats, and quiet bars
- Night markets with snacks and souvenirs
Da Nang – Bigger and Bolder
- Huge range of food: Vietnamese and global
- More nightlife options: rooftop bars, beach clubs, city lounges
- Dragon Bridge lights up on weekends
- Multiple night markets with more variety
Verdict:
Da Nang wins on food variety and nightlife options, but Hoi An wins on atmosphere, especially for a one-of-a-kind evening walk through the Old Town. If you can, enjoy dinner in both.
Accommodation options
Both Hoi An and Da Nang offer a wide range of places to stay — from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. But the type of setting and experience you get is quite different depending on the location.
Da Nang has two main areas for accommodation: the beachfront (around My Khe Beach and My An) and the city side along the Han River. Most hotels here are high-rise buildings, often surrounded by other tall buildings. It’s convenient, modern, and great for those who want city comforts close to the beach.
Hoi An, by contrast, feels more spread out. Around the Old Town, you’ll find charming boutique hotels and homestays with traditional decor. Further out in the countryside or near An Bang Beach, accommodations tend to have more space, often with gardens, pools, and a quieter setting.
Hoi An – Scenic and Relaxed
- Boutique hotels and homestays near the Old Town
- Beachside stays near An Bang and Cua Dai
- Spacious villas and eco-friendly resorts in the countryside
- Feels more private and intimate
Da Nang – Urban and Convenient
- Large hotels and apartments near My Khe Beach
- High-rise city hotels with river views
- More options for longer stays (condos, serviced apartments)
- Great for access to restaurants, cafes, and city life
Family-friendliness
If you’re traveling with kids, the decision between Hoi An or Da Nang depends on what kind of experiences your family enjoys. Both are family-friendly in different ways, with their own pros and cons.
Da Nang is a bigger, busier city, but it has more infrastructure: sidewalks, street crossings, convenience stores, and medical facilities. It’s also home to more indoor attractions for kids, like play centers, small water parks, and entertainment complexes like Helio Center or Asia Park.
Hoi An feels quieter and more relaxed, especially in the countryside or beachside areas. Many family-run homestays and villas offer more space to play — gardens, pools, and a laid-back vibe. Activities like biking, buffalo riding, or basket boat tours can be great fun for kids, especially outdoorsy ones.
Hoi An – Outdoor Fun & Relaxed Pace
- Many accommodations with pools and gardens
- Great for slow, nature-based activities: biking, boat rides, crafts
- Less traffic, though fewer sidewalks in some rural areas
- More hands-on cultural experiences
Da Nang – Convenience & Indoor Options
- Safer walking infrastructure and more central facilities
- Indoor playgrounds, amusement areas, water parks
- Good access to hospitals and city services
- Beach and city combo offers variety for kids of all ages
Summary:
Choose Hoi An for a slower, outdoor-focused trip with younger kids — or Da Nang for convenience and a mix of activities in all weather. Both can work well for families, depending on your style of travel.
Day trips & excursions
One big advantage when deciding between Hoi An or Da Nang is that they’re close enough to share the same day trip options. No matter where you stay, you can reach most nearby attractions within an hour or so. That said, some places are slightly more convenient from one city than the other.
Day trips closer to Da Nang
- Hai Van Pass – One of Vietnam’s most scenic coastal drives, just north of Da Nang
- Son Tra Peninsula – Great for nature lovers and scenic viewpoints like Ban Co Peak
- Marble Mountains – A cluster of limestone peaks with caves and pagodas, only 15 minutes from the city center
Day trips closer to Hoi An
- My Son Sanctuary – Ancient Hindu temple ruins set in the jungle, about an hour from Hoi An
- Cham Island – A snorkeling and beach day trip available from Cua Dai Port
- Hoi An Countryside – Peaceful rice fields, coconut forests, and local villages — best explored by bike or scooter
Summary:
No matter whether you stay in Da Nang or Hoi An, you can easily visit all of these places. But depending on your top day trip priorities, it might be worth staying slightly closer to save on travel time.
When to visit
Since Hoi An and Da Nang are so close together, the weather is nearly identical — tropical, with a dry season from January to August, and a rainy season from September to December. But how the weather affects your trip can differ between the two.
During the rainy season, Da Nang’s beaches lose some of their appeal — waves can be rough, skies grey, and beach days limited. Hoi An’s Cua Dai Beach also suffers from erosion, making it even less suitable for swimming or sunbathing. However, exploring Hoi An’s Old Town is still possible in light rain, and can even feel atmospheric. Just note that in periods of heavy rain, minor flooding in the Old Town is common. Da Nang, being more elevated, generally avoids flooding and offers more indoor activities like shopping malls, museums, or coffee hopping.
During the dry season, especially from April to August, both cities are at their best — clear skies, beach weather, and full activity options. This is the ideal time to visit if you want to enjoy the coast, outdoor sights, and day trips without interruptions.
Touristiness & crowds
Both Hoi An and Da Nang are popular with tourists — but how that feels on the ground is quite different.
Hoi An often feels more touristy, especially in the Ancient Town, where crowds, souvenir shops, and guided tours are concentrated in a small area. But outside that core, you’ll find a very different vibe. Areas like An Bang Beach or the countryside around Cam Thanh are much quieter and more local. You can stay in a laid-back area and only dip into the Old Town when you want — meaning you’re close to the action, but not stuck in it.
Da Nang, as a larger city, spreads tourism out more. The main beach zone, riverside areas, and certain cafés or attractions can be tourist-heavy, but most of the city remains very local. You’ll find plenty of places where you’re surrounded mostly by Vietnamese — from small food stalls to residential neighborhoods. That said, it’s still a city, so while you may escape the crowds, it’s harder to find truly quiet or empty spots.
Who should choose what?
If you’re still deciding between Hoi An or Da Nang, here’s a clear breakdown of what each place offers — including the main reasons to choose, potential downsides, and who it suits best. This quick summary helps you match the city to your travel style.
Why choose Hoi An
- Charming and walkable Ancient Town with historical atmosphere
- Peaceful countryside and quiet beach areas like An Bang
- Great for cycling, boat tours, cooking classes, and hands-on cultural experiences
- Smaller, more intimate vibe with plenty of boutique hotels and villas
- Beautiful lantern-lit nights and romantic riverside setting
Cons:
- Old Town gets very crowded during the day
- Fewer food and nightlife options than Da Nang
- Limited indoor attractions if the weather turns bad
Best for:
- Couples, photographers, and culture lovers
- Families wanting space and slower pace
- Anyone looking for a relaxing, scenic stay in a smaller town
Why choose Da Nang
- Long, clean beaches right next to the city
- Wide range of restaurants, bars, and shopping
- More local life and a balance of tourist and real-city feel
- Convenient base for day trips, including Son Tra, Hai Van Pass, and Hoi An
- Big choice of accommodations from budget to luxury
Cons:
- Less “historic charm” — more modern city vibe
- Not as peaceful or scenic as Hoi An
- Some areas feel quite urban and busy
Best For:
- Solo travelers, digital nomads, and long-term stays
- Beach lovers who want city convenience
- Families or groups looking for variety and flexibility
Can you do both?
If you’re deciding between Hoi An or Da Nang as your base, you might be tempted to split your stay between the two. And yes, it’s possible — the distance is short, and many travelers do it. But it only really makes sense if you have at least 5–6 days or more.
With a short trip (under 4 nights), switching accommodations can feel inconvenient. You’ll lose time packing, checking in and out, and transferring — all for a move that covers just 30 km. It’s usually better in that case to pick one place and do a day trip to the other.
If you have enough time, though, staying in both lets you enjoy two very different experiences:
- A scenic, slow-paced town with history, charm, and countryside (Hoi An)
- A modern beach city with local culture and urban energy (Da Nang)
Frequently asked questions: Hoi An or Da Nang
Is Hoi An or Da Nang safer?
Both are very safe for travelers. Hoi An feels calmer with less traffic, especially in the Old Town and countryside. Da Nang is a larger city, but still considered one of Vietnam’s safest. Use common sense in both — especially with personal belongings and road safety.
Does Hoi An or Da Nang have better weather?
The weather is essentially the same — both have a dry season (Jan–Aug) and rainy season (Sep–Dec). However, during heavy rains, Hoi An’s Old Town can flood, while Da Nang generally doesn’t. In the dry season, both are great.
Which is cheaper — Da Nang or Hoi An?
Da Nang is generally cheaper. It’s a much larger city with more local restaurants, cafés, and services spread across a wider area. This keeps prices competitive, especially outside the main tourist zones.
Hoi An, by contrast, is smaller and more tourist-focused, especially in and around the Old Town. Prices for food, drinks, and even some hotels are often higher for what you get. If you’re on a tighter budget, Da Nang gives you more value overall.
Which has better beaches — Da Nang or Hoi An?
Da Nang’s beaches (especially My Khe) are bigger, cleaner, and more accessible. Hoi An’s An Bang Beach is more relaxed but smaller. For serious beach time, Da Nang has the edge.
