Quick Answer
For most travelers, the best way to get from Da Nang Airport to Da Nang Railway Station is by taxi, taking 10-20 minutes and costing 70,000 - 120,000 VND ($3 - $5 USD). It's direct, convenient, and available 24/7. The cheapest option is the public bus (Route #12) at just ~10,000 VND, taking 25-40 minutes. For a hassle-free, fixed-price ride, especially with luggage or a group, pre-booking a private car transfer online is highly recommended.
Taxi & Private Car Transfer (Recommended for Convenience)
This is the most popular and straightforward door-to-door option. The distance is short (~3 km), making taxis cost-effective for couples, families, or those with luggage.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Exit the Arrivals Hall: After collecting baggage, walk out of the main terminal doors.
- Find the Official Taxi Rank: Turn right. You'll see a queue of taxis from various companies under a covered walkway.
- Choose a Reputable Company: Look for the green Mai Linh Taxi or white Vinasun Taxi logos. These are the most reliable with fair meters. Avoid touts offering "fixed prices" inside the terminal.
- Communicate Your Destination: Show the driver the address: "Ga Đà Nẵng" (Da Nang Station) or have it written in Vietnamese. The station is at 791 Hải Phòng, Tam Thuận, Thanh Khê.
- Ensure the Meter is On: Confirm the driver starts the meter (should begin around 10,000-15,000 VND). The fare should end between 70,000 - 120,000 VND.
Private Car / Airport Transfer (Pre-Booked)
For guaranteed service, a fixed price, and a driver waiting with a name sign, pre-booking online is excellent. Companies like Kiwitaxi or Booking.com's taxi service offer this. Ideal for groups of 4+ or those arriving late at night.
Pros: No haggling, fixed price (~150,000 - 250,000 VND for a sedan), meet & greet, often includes luggage help.
Cons: Slightly more expensive than a metered taxi (if no traffic surcharge).
Local Bus & Airport Shuttle (The Budget Choice)
Da Nang has an efficient public bus system. This is the best option for solo travelers on a tight budget who aren't rushed.
Key Bus Routes:
- Route #12 (Yellow Bus): Connects the airport to the city center and passes near the railway station.
- Airport Stop: The bus stop is on the departures level (upstairs). Exit arrivals, go upstairs, cross the pedestrian bridge to the opposite side of the road.
- Station Stop: Get off at the stop "Ngã ba Huế" (Hue Intersection) or "Bến Xe Đà Nẵng" (Da Nang Bus Station), then walk 5-10 minutes to the train station.
- Frequency: Every 15-20 minutes from ~5:30 AM to ~6:30 PM.
- Fare: 10,000 VND. Pay cash to the conductor on the bus.
- Travel Time: 25-40 minutes including stops and walking.
- Airport Shuttle Bus (Da Nang Airport Shuttle):
- This service primarily connects the airport to Hoi An but has stops in the city. Confirm with the driver if it stops near the railway station.
- Fare: ~20,000 VND. Less frequent than Route #12.
Bus Travel Tips:
- Have small denomination Vietnamese Dong (VND) ready.
- Use Google Maps or the Danang Bus app for real-time tracking.
- Luggage space is limited; large backpacks or suitcases may be difficult during peak times.
Walking from Da Nang Airport to the Railway Station
While the stations are geographically close, walking is generally not advisable for typical tourists.
The Route & Challenges:
- Distance & Time: Approximately 3 km. A fast walker without luggage could do it in 35-45 minutes.
- Route: You would walk north on Nguyen Van Linh, then turn onto Hai Phong Street. Parts of this route lack proper, continuous sidewalks.
- Major Drawbacks:
- Luggage: Dragging suitcases over uneven pavement or roadsides is impractical.
- Weather: Da Nang can be extremely hot and sunny or experience sudden heavy rain.
- Traffic & Safety: You'll navigate busy intersections with motorbike traffic. Not pedestrian-friendly.
Verdict: Only attempt this if you have a single small backpack, enjoy urban walking, and arrive during mild weather. For 99% of visitors, the minimal cost of a taxi or bus is worth the comfort and safety.
Cost, Time & Option Comparison Table
This table summarizes all key data to help you decide the best transfer from Da Nang Airport (DAD) to Da Nang Railway Station.
| Transport Method | Estimated Cost (VND / USD) | Travel Time | Best For | Key Advantages | Key Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi (Metered) | 70,000 - 120,000 VND ($3 - $5 USD) |
10 - 20 min | Most travelers, couples, families, anyone with luggage | Door-to-door, 24/7 availability, fast | Potential for meter scams with non-reputable firms, slight traffic dependence |
| Private Car (Pre-booked) | 150,000 - 250,000 VND ($6 - $10 USD) |
10 - 20 min | Groups (3-4+), late-night arrivals, those wanting zero hassle | Fixed price, driver meets you, comfortable, reliable | Most expensive road option |
| Public Bus (Route #12) 最便宜 | 10,000 VND (~$0.40 USD) |
25 - 40 min (+ walking) |
Solo budget travelers, no rush, light packers | Extremely cheap, local experience | Multiple stops, limited luggage space, need to find bus stop/walk |
| Walking | Free | 35 - 45 min | Adventurous, ultra-light packers in good weather | Free, exercise | Uncomfortable with luggage, weather-dependent, not very safe |
Bottom Line: The price-performance winner is the taxi. The tiny savings from the bus or walking are outweighed by the convenience and time saved for such a short trip.
Traveler Tips & Local Insights
Essential Advice for a Smooth Transfer:
- Currency & Payment: Have Vietnamese Dong (VND) for taxis and buses. While some taxi drivers may accept USD, the rate will be poor. Small notes (10,000, 20,000, 50,000 VND) are best for buses and exact taxi fares.
- Sim Card & Maps: Purchase a local SIM (Viettel, Vinaphone) at the airport arrivals to use Google Maps or Grab (Southeast Asia's Uber). Grab can be used to book a car to the station at a fixed, transparent price.
- Luggage Considerations: Da Nang Railway Station has stepped access and can be crowded. If you have heavy luggage, the extra few dollars for a taxi directly to the entrance is invaluable.
- Train Station Facilities: The station has a waiting hall, basic snacks/drinks for sale, and ticket counters. Arrive at least 45-60 minutes before your train departure if you need to collect pre-booked tickets or buy them on the spot.
- Traffic Awareness: Da Nang traffic peaks around 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM. If your flight lands then, add 10-15 minutes to your taxi/bus journey time.
- Next Destination from Da Nang Station: Popular train routes include the scenic journey to Hue (2-3 hours) or the long-distance sleeper trains to Hanoi (14-16 hours) or Ho Chi Minh City (17-20 hours). Book these in advance.
FAQs: Da Nang Airport to Station Transfers
Is there a direct train from Da Nang Airport to Da Nang Railway Station?
No, there is no direct train service or railway line connecting Da Nang International Airport (DAD) to Da Nang Railway Station. The station is located in the city center, approximately 3 km away. You must use road transport like taxi, bus, or private car for the transfer.
What is the cheapest way to get from Da Nang Airport to the train station?
The cheapest option is the local public bus, specifically Route #12 or the Airport Shuttle Bus. The fare is typically between 10,000 - 20,000 VND (less than $1 USD). It's economical but involves potential waits and multiple stops.
How much is a taxi from Da Nang Airport to Da Nang Railway Station?
A metered taxi for the 10-20 minute journey costs between 70,000 to 120,000 VND ($3 - $5 USD). Use reputable companies like Mai Linh (绿色) or Vinasun (白色) for fair meters. Agree on the approximate price or ensure the meter is used before departing.
Can I walk from Da Nang Airport to the train station?
Technically yes, the distance is about 3 km, which takes 35-45 minutes on foot. However, it's not recommended due to navigating busy streets (like Nguyen Van Linh) with luggage, weather (heat/rain), and limited pedestrian sidewalks for parts of the route. Only consider if you travel very light.
What is the fastest transfer method from DAD airport to the station?
The fastest method is by taxi or pre-booked private car, taking only 10-20 minutes depending on traffic (avoiding rush hours 7-9 AM & 5-7 PM). This provides a direct, door-to-door service without stops.
How do I get to the train station if my flight arrives late at night?
For late-night arrivals (after ~10 PM until ~5 AM), the only reliable options are taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. Public buses may not operate. Taxis are available 24/7 outside the arrivals hall. Pre-booking online guarantees a driver will be waiting.
Is it easy to find a taxi at Da Nang Airport for a short trip to the station?
Yes, it's very easy. The official taxi rank is directly outside the arrivals terminal. Drivers may approach you for business. For the short trip, some might hesitate, but reputable drivers from Mai Linh or Vinasun will accept the fare. Insist on using the meter to avoid overcharging.
Should I buy train tickets in advance for travel from Da Nang Station?
Yes, it's highly recommended, especially for popular routes like Da Nang to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), sleeper berths, or during holidays (Tet, summer). You can book online via official sites or at the station counter upon arrival. Having your onward ticket secured reduces stress.