central vietnam travel map

Central Vietnam Itinerary: Top Destinations to Visit

Many tourists are drawn to traveling Vietnam from North to South , but we often recommend prioritizing destinations in Central Vietnam. If you’re visiting this area, our Central Vietnam itinerary will help you plan the perfect trip.

Is Central Vietnam worth visiting? In my personal opinion, yes 100%. Having spent several months in Vietnam over several visits, Central Vietnam is where we choose to spend most of our time.

Central Vietnam attractions include fantastic scenery, inspiring mountains, sandy beaches, ancient UNESCO World Heritage sites, amazing food, and unique cultural traditions. These are just a few highlights that Central Vietnam is known for.

What to know about Central Vietnam Travel

When to visit: Central Vietnam weather follows a different pattern than the North or South. Personally, our favorite time to visit is in January and February. This is when the temperatures are more moderate and typically the crowds aren’t too bad.

It’s important to note that Vietnamese New Year also takes place in January or February. It’s fun to see the celebrations, but it can be a real challenge for travel planning. Many businesses close for 7 to 10 days during this Lunar New Year. Typically more places remain open in the tourist area of Hoi An than in other parts of Vietnam. However, it’s still difficult to know what accommodations, restaurants, and attractions will be operating. 

The closer you get to summer, the heat and humidity becomes more intense in Central Vietnam. Also, in Spring, farmers burn off their rice fields, which can affect air quality significantly. Despite the heat, summer is high season for tourism.

We have also visited Central Vietnam in Fall. There are fewer crowds at this time and the temperatures are more moderate. Just be prepared for heavy rains to start at any moment. Tropical storms are possible and flooding occasionally affects Hoi An. If your sightseeing is flexible, you can go out and about when it’s not pouring and still enjoy a Fall trip.

* Access our free Vietnam Destinations guide here *

Top Central Vietnam Cities

Central Vietnam highlights include a few cities, but be sure to read on for other non-city attractions nearby.

Da Nang, Vietnam

The primary Central Vietnam airport is located in the coastal city of Da Nang . This is an international airport with flights from places like South Korea and Bangkok, in addition to connecting flights to Hanoi and Saigon. Da Nang train station is also along the North to South train route.

If you enjoy cities and beaches, Da Nang is for you. Personally, we prefer other destinations. Still, Da Nang has grown on us and we have enjoyed its restaurants and modern amenities.

Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An is our favorite Central Vietnam destination, and it’s where we’ve spent the most time. We often meet travelers who wished they had planned a few extra days in Hoi An, rather than moving on to the next place so quickly.

A UNESCO World Heritage destination, Hoi An’s colorful buildings and lanterns in Ancient Town are a dazzling sight. Places to eat , both sit-down restaurants and street food, are plentiful and diverse.

Hoi An offers attractions for any interest, from crafts and shopping to biking and beaches to temples and historical sites. There are many excellent day trips from Hoi An , which makes it a fantastic base for travelers.

I often say: if you can only go to one place in Vietnam, make it Hoi An . That’s why we’ve chosen to host un-tours in Hoi An! Watch the video below to get a feel for what it’s like: 

> Try one of these unique experiences led by locals

Where to stay in Hoi An: 

See our detailed Hoi An Accommodations post here

*Access a free map of our favorite places in Hoi An here*

Hue, Vietnam

Hue has been an important city throughout Vietnam’s history. Once the capitol, it was also on the border of Vietnam’s demilitarized zone during the American-Vietnam War. 

Often considered a secondary destination if you happen to have time, Hue’s main attractions can be seen in a day or two.

Instead of taking the train or private car between Hue and Hoi An or Da Nang, we highly recommend an adventure via Vietnam’s top mode of transit: motorbike. Transit between cities on a memorable motorbike tour with our good friend, Phu.

> Check out these unique tours and activities led by locals

Where to stay in Hue:

Hue Sweethouse Homestay – $ – Riverside guesthouse with private bathroom, parking, wifi, and breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Hue Riverside Villas – $$/$$$ – Riverside property with contemporary villas, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Other Central Vietnam Places to Visit

As we hinted before, some of the best Central Vietnam attractions are found outside the cities. Any of these can be visited on a motorbike tour, package bus tour, or by hiring a private driver.

Marble Mountains, Da Nang

It’s hard to describe just what the Marble Mountains are . It’s a scenic hike, a series of shrines, a historic landmark, a wonder of nature. 

Hai Van Pass

My Son Temple Ruins

Often compared with Angkor Wat’s temples, the ancient shrines at My Son were unfortunately bombed in the war. However, some of the temples still stand and you can walk around what remains at this UNESCO World Heritage site. Local guides are available on site.

Mural Village

This small fishing called Tam Thanh set out to make itself the first painted village of its kind in 2016. Now graced with street art throughout, tourists have started visiting Tam Tanh to enjoy the outdoor gallery. The village can be reached by organized tour, bus, taxi, or your own transportation.

Suggested One Week Central Vietnam Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Da Nang. Stay in Da Nang hotel. Day 2: Take train, bus, or private car to Hue. Visit citadel and pagodas. Stay in Hue homestay. Day 3: Motorbike tour/transfer from Hue to Hoi An, Hai Van Pass, Marble Mountains. Stay in Hoi An homestay. Day 4: Walking tour and cooking class in Hoi An. Visit Old Town at night. Day 5: Morning trip to My Son temple ruins. Visit Hoi An beach and enjoy another evening in Hoi An. Day 6: Optional day trip to mural village, or motorbike villages tour, or return to Da Nang. Day 7: Depart from Da Nang.

Short on time for your Central Vietnam itinerary? I’d suggest making Hoi An your home base and doing a few day trips as time allows.

Compare and book Vietnam transit tickets on BookAway here

Central Vietnam Tours and Experiences

For local-led day trips, tours, craft workshops, cooking classes, and cultural experiences in Central Vietnam and the rest of Southeast Asia, we recommend Backstreet Academy.

Book Backstreet Academy experiences from Hoi An > Book Backstreet Academy experiences from Hue >

Planning a trip to Central Vietnam?

READ NEXT: – 3 Day Hoi An Itinerary and Self-Guided Walking Tour Map – Best food in Hoi An: Our favorite restaurants – Where to stay in Hoi An – 5 Best day trips from Hoi An – What to do in Hoi An on a Budget – Motorbike Tour from Hue to Hoi An, Central Vietnam – A budget guide to Hue

Central Vietnam Travel Resources

Compare and book Vietnam transit tickets on BookAway here > Browse Experiences in Vietnam here > ✈️ Protect your Vietnam trip with Travel Insurance – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

For Other Destinations in Vietnam: – Suggested Vietnam Itineraries: 10+ Days in Vietnam – A budget guide to Ninh Binh – A budget guide to Hanoi – A budget guide to Mai Chau Vietnam

We hope this guide helps you plan the perfect Central Vietnam holiday, whether you have 7 days or even less. Let us know in the comments below if you have questions or suggestions of your own!

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Central Vietnam travel guide: The best places to visit in Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam is often underestimated and little known except for Hoi An. Tourists spend far too little time in Central Vietnam on a round trip between Halong Bay in North Vietnam and the tropical south with the Mekong Delta to see all the highlights. Central Vietnam is also home to some of the best preserved ancient monuments. In this article I list the best things to see and do in Central Vietnam. A round trip just in Central Vietnam followed by a beach holiday is already worth the trip.

Table of contents

What is considered Central Vietnam?

The term “central Vietnam” is used to refer to the area of Vietnam that lies in the center of the country and includes Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang and other cities. The central region has a population of around 20 million people, which makes it one of the most densely populated areas in the world.

Hai Van Pass of the Ocean Clouds: Panoramic View Included

The Hai Van or Cloud Pass is the weather divide between cooler North Vietnam and tropical South Vietnam. The pass is 20 km long and climbs to almost 500 metres above sea level. From the highest point there is a panoramic view of the mountains and sea of central Vietnam. Unfortunately, the pass lives up to its name in that clouds often disturb the view.

Dong Hoi: undiscovered and laid back

Dong Hoi is an unpretentious port and seaside town with a laid back atmosphere. It enjoys a beautiful location, sitting on the banks of the Nhật Lộc River, and has beaches on both its northern and southern sides. Dong Hoi has an airport of its own linking it to Haiphong (for Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island) and Chiang Mai in Thailand. It will definitely become more popular because of the newly established connections, so come here before the masses do!

Things to do and see in Dong Hoi

• Tam Toa Church: the ruined church, destroyed during the war, has a still remaining facade in a beautiful riverside location
• Dong Hoi Citadel Gate: two restored elegant gates
• Fish market: Get here early to see the freshest fish and sea food

Hang Son Doong cave

Hang Son Doong (Mountain River Cave) is a staggering cave in Central Vietnam that is considered to be the largest cave in the world. It is also one of the most spectacular sites in Southeast Asia. It’s also one of the most expensive. The enormous cave was discovered in the early 1990s by a local hunter. Only one specialist operator (Oxalis Adventure) is permitted to offer cave tours for tourist. That’s why it’s so exclusive. It’s a whopping US$3000 per person fee for the four-day expedition with a maximum of 10 participants. The trip is not for the faint-hearted as there is a lot of climbing expecially over a vast overhanging barrier. The impressive principal cavern alone is more than 5 km long, 200 m high and up to 150 m wide. Some stalagmites are more than 80 m high. You can find colossal cave pearls, underground rivers, dry caves and the eyeless cave fish. The Hang Son Doong cave is located north of Hue.

Apart from this biggest cave there additional caves for cave enthusiasts nearby:

• Paradise cave
• Tu Lan Cave

The Vinh Moc tunnels

The Vinh Moc tunnels were built by the Viet Cong to protect themselves from the American bombings. This underground network was used to shelter thousands of people who lived there for months or even years. After the war ended, the government decided to restore this tunnel system to show how resilient the Vietnamese families are. At the entrance of the tunnel you can see a small museum showing what happened here during the war. They are located between Hue and Dong Hoi and can be visited from both cities on a day trip.

Da Nang: Beach, Culture and Food

Da Nang is the largest city in Central Vietnam and the economic centre of the region. With a population of almost 900,000, Da Nang is the fifth largest city in Vietnam. It has a large port, an airport and an annual festival. The city is also centrally located for visiting sights such as My Son, Hoi An or Cloud Pass.

Things to do and see in Da Nang

• The Cham Sculpture Museum is of interest to anyone who wants to learn more about Cham culture from the 5th to the 15th century.
• Kilometres of sandy beaches such as China Beach
• Cham Island Cu Lao Cham
• Lady Buddha statue on the Monkey mountain
• Huge variety of street food from all over Vietnam
• In the surrounding area: the Bạch Mã National Park with lakes, waterfalls and dense forests and old French summer resorts at Ba Na.
• Dragon bridge
• The Marble Mountains south of Da Nang. There are Buddhist sanctuaries with tunnels and caves. A mystical place.

Cau Vang: The Superlative Golden Bridge

Located near Da Nang, the Golden Bridge “Cau Vang” should be mentioned separately. Don’t miss out on this sight in central Vietnam! Located 30 km from Da Nang, you’ll need to take the world’s largest single cable car to get up to the bridge.

Opened in 2018, it’s a rarity architectural highlight with its iconic arch and hands supporting it. The viewing platform is 150 metres long. Along its entire length, you can take fantabulous photos of central Vietnam and the Ba Na Mountains up here at 1400 metres. Expensive, but worth it!

Hue: The ancient imperial city

One of the highlights of Central Vietnam and a must-see is the old imperial city of Hue. The former capital of Vietnam was the power centre of the Nguyen dynasty. This has earned the city on the Perfume River several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Things to do in Hue

• Hue Citadel: If there’s one thing you should see in central Vietnam, it’s Hue Citadel. It is a defining feature of the cityscape. Surrounded by a moat, three bridges lead to the main gate. Once through the gate, you are already in the Forbidden City. Bring plenty of time, because there used to be space for the emperor’s many concubines, various temples and a large orchid garden.
• Take a boat trip on a dragon boat on the Perfume River and visit the Royal tombs
• The seven-storey pagoda Thien Mu Pagoda founded in 1601 by Nguyen Hoang is surrounded by several pavilions. One of them houses the largest bell in central Vietnam. The complex itself is a Buddhist monastery. There is a beautiful, well-maintained garden to see.
• Tu Duc Temple consisting of the emperor’s tomb and the temple complex. There is a lake on the grounds where regular performances are held on a stage. Visit the production of incense sticks. Incense sticks are burnt all over the streets of Hue. You can see them and straw hats being made in Hue.
• Lang Khai Dinh is the last temple built by the emperor. The building is made of concrete. Don’t be put off by the weathered exterior. Inside, it is so exuberantly decorated with mosaics, panelling and paintings that it is a kind of Vietnamese Versailles. Its hilltop location alone justifies the trip out of the centre.
• Evening stroll and meal in the pedestrian zone. In the evening, streets are closed and transformed into pedestrian zones with everything that makes an evening stroll in Vietnam so irresistible: delicious Asian food and hustle and bustle.

Quang Ngai & My Lai

A dark chapter of Vietnam, but important for understanding recent history, is My Lai near Quang Nai. Located in the southern part of central Vietnam, the town of 100,000 people has no sights to offer per se. It is worth mentioning My Khe Beach a few kilometres away, which is one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam. On the other hand, a village 2 km away, My Lai, has achieved sad fame.

In March 1968, a US unit massacred the population. The inconceivable atrocities committed by the soldiers are the subject of a local museum. Anyone who wants to understand Vietnam must deal with this harrowing subject. The more than 500 civilians who were murdered are commemorated in the My Lai memorial.

Hoi An: The Most Beautiful City in Central Vietnam

Whether you have ever been to Vietnam or not, Hoi An is a household name to almost everyone. Practically every photo of Hoi An shows the famous lanterns hanging in the alleys. The alleys are really enchanting. You could spend a few days here just sitting in a street café and soaking up the flair of the colonial architecture.

Things to do and see in Hoi An

• Japanese Bridge: The 18-metre-long bridge is the city’s landmark and connects two historic parts of the city. It used to be a Chinese trading temple.
• Central Market: Be amazed at all the fruits, vegetables and other foodstuffs available in central Vietnam.
• Fujian Assembly Hall with temple and hall. Many beautiful statues.
• Quan Di Temple
• Night market: Here you can buy everything from lanterns to clothes and souvenirs for tourists.
• Lantern workshop: Learn how to make your own pretty lanterns.
• Cooking classes: Hoi An is famous for its cooking classes, where you can learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine.
• Folklore Museum, for those interested in traditional clothing and objects.
• Tailoring: Hoi An is the place to get your clothes tailored for little money.
• Eating by the river: In the evening, lanterns glow on the river, creating a beautiful atmosphere for dining.
• In the surroundings of Hoi An, it’s worth taking a detour to Thien Ma village. Take a bike ride to the famous Thanh Toan brick bridge for a short breather away from the hustle and bustle.

Beaches in Central Vietnam

South of Da Nang, wide sandy beaches stretch for kilometres to Nha Trang. Central Vietnam is a good choice for a beach holiday in spring and summer. It is best to combine a round trip in Central Vietnam with a beach holiday. The best-known and most beautiful beaches are Binh Minh Beach, Non Nuoc Beach, An Bang, Ha My and Tam Ky.

Are you still looking for a hotel for your beach holiday in Central Vietnam?

My Son: Vietnam’s Angkor Wat

My Son is known as the Vietnamese Angkor Wat. For centuries, My Son played one of the most important roles in Hinduism in the region. The temples were built by the Cham culture and are famous for their filigree wall paintings. My Son is therefore a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Anyone who has visited Hindu temples elsewhere will recognise the cultural influences.

Unfortunately, large parts of the temple complex were destroyed during the Vietnam War and the original splendour can only be guessed at. Nevertheless, what is still to be seen is worth the trip there.

Practical information for Central Vietnam

When is the best time to travel to central vietnam.

The best time to visit Central Vietnam is during the dry season from February to May, with temperatures between 24 and 28 degrees Celsius during the day. The summer months are really hot and just right for a beach holiday. The rainy season starts in September.

When is the rainy season in Central Vietnam?

The rainy season lasts from September to December in Central Vietnam. Avoid November, when the typhoon season is at its peak. Roads can become impassable due to flooding and landslides.

When is peak tourist season in Central Vietnam?

The peak tourist season in Central Vietnam runs from mid-December to the end of April. Temperatures are pleasant. It is less crowded in Central Vietnam in summer because some tourists find it too hot. However, it is the best season for a beach holiday in Central Vietnam.

Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam?

For tourist stays up to a maximum of 15 days, the Republic of Vietnam requires nationals of

• South Korea
• United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

no visa . Other nationals or for longer stays a visa must be obtained before arrival. Generally, for visa-free entry, a return ticket must be carried and the passport must be valid for at least 6 months.

Which plugs do I need in Vietnam?

Type A, C and D sockets are used in Vietnam. Type C is also the one commonly used in continental Europe (except Switzerland). It is better to take a travel adapter with you so that you can actually use every socket in Vietnam.

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Central Vietnam

The geographic heart of the nation, central Vietnam is packed with historic sights and cultural interest, and blessed with ravishing beaches and outstanding national parks. Marvel at Hue and its Imperial Citadel, royal tombs and excellent street food. Savour the unique heritage grace of riverside jewel Hoi An, and tour the military sites of the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ). Check out Danang, fast emerging as one of the nation’s most dynamic cities. Also emerging as a must-visit destination is the extraordinary Phong Nha region, home to three gargantuan cave systems (including the world’s largest cave), and a fascinating war history concealed amid stunning scenery. Enjoy well-earned downtime on the golden sands of An Bang Beach or learn to cook central Vietnamese cuisine, the nation’s most complex. With improving highways, and upgraded international airports at Hue and Danang, access to this compelling and diverse part of Vietnam has never been easier.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Central Vietnam. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

North-Central Vietnam

Designated a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2003, the remarkable Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park contains the oldest karst mountains in Asia, formed…

Hang Son Doong

Hang Son Doong (Mountain River Cave), located in the heart of Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, is known as the world's largest cave, and is one of the…

Tu Lan Cave

The Tu Lan cave system comprises of more than 20 wet and dry caves, which are thought to be between three and five million years old. Huge caverns,…

Paradise Cave

Surrounded by forested karst peaks, this staggering cave system in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park extends for 31km, though most people only visit the…

Dragon Bridge

This wonderfully wacky bridge takes the form of a ginormous, colour-changing dragon, weaving its way across the Han River. If that wasn't attention…

Thien Mu Pagoda

Built on a small hill overlooking the Song Huong (Perfume River), 4km southwest of the Citadel, this seven-storey pagoda is an icon of Vietnam and as…

Tan Ky House

Built two centuries ago by an ethnically Vietnamese family, this gem of a house has been lovingly preserved through seven generations. Look out for signs…

Japanese Covered Bridge

Emblematic of Hoi An, this beautiful bridge was first constructed in the 1590s by the Japanese community to link it with the Chinese quarters. Over the…

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5 Days Central Vietnam Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Last updated on April 21st, 2024

Heading to Central Vietnam, then be sure to check out our detailed travel guide blog. We reveal our best travel tips and highlights in this 5 Days Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An itinerary. You’ll explore off-beat cities, historical sites, and colorful lanterns, as well as amazing food there.

The central part of Vietnam is where the cities of Hoi An, Hue, and Da Nang are located. These places are accessible from each other within one to two hours of the driving journey. Considered to be the popular touristic center of the country, this region is well-known for its well-preserved historical sites; charming streets of UNESCO recognized Old Town and breathtaking beaches. Added, the three World Heritages; Hue Imperial Citadel, Hoi An ancient town, and My Son Sanctuary, are located in Central Vietnam.

Five days in Central Vietnam to truly get a good feel for the city, especially if you’re a first-time visitor. The Central region of Vietnam contains a diversity of attractions, and plenty of things can be done and seen here. With the right plan and itinerary, all three cities can be explored and mastered within 3 to 5 days of the visit.

In this Central Vietnam travel guide blog , we will share with you our itinerary through Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang. This route is perfect for those who are traveling to Central Vietnam for the first time and want to get a glimpse of the best highlights in the region.

Table of Contents

Central Vietnam Travel Tips (Danang & Hoi An)

This detailed Da Nang and Hoi An itinerary will give you suggestions on which places to visit and where to eat for 5 days in Central Vietnam. It’ll have all the information you need – like when to go, where to eat, how much to budget, to help you plan your trip.

Reliable Wifi is another must-have for the Central Vietnam itinerary. You’ll need it to navigate, access Google Maps, do last-minute research for attractions and food, and also use it for Grab. We collected our pre-booked 4G Wifi from Klook directly upon arrival at Da Nang International Airport.

We don’t always get travel insurance . It depends on where we’re going, what we’ll be doing, and how long we’ll be away. For central Vietnam, we’ll highly be recommended getting travel insurance for safety concerns.

Flights to Central Vietnam

The nearest airport is Da Nang International Airport (DAD) , with a very well linked for both internal and international flights. You can search for a flight aggregator like Skyscanner to find cheap flights to Da Nang from where you are. Once you reach the Da Nang International Airport, you may head to your next destination as per the itinerary.

The traveling time from the airport to the nearby cities is as below:

• From Da Nang Airport to Da Nang City Center with approximately 15 minutes.
• From Da Nang Airport to Hoi An with approximately 45 minutes.
• Danang Airport to Hue with approximately~2 hours.

You can pre-book a private transfer from Da Nang Airport to your hotel HERE .

Getting Around Between Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue

The Central region does not have a great public transport system, so it is always recommended to have an idea of how to get around within the cities. The best way to get around is to hire your own car with a driver, arrange the day-by-day activities by joining the local tours, and mix using e-hailing Grab.

We got an airport pickup which brought us to Hoi An and used the private city transfer within Hoi An and Da Nang . We used a private charter to cover the day trip to Hue Imperial City and My Son Sanctuary to ease transport arrangements. Besides, We also rented a scooter to explore Da Nang city and it was truly adventurous. For everything else, we use Grab (Uber in South East Asia) for the short-distance city transfer. It is super handy, fast, and reliable.

If you’d rather experience Central Vietnam on a guided tour , then there are a few you can choose from Klook.

• Private City Tour To Hue from Hoi An .
• My Son Sanctuary from Hoi An or Da Nang .
• Danang Private Sightseeing Car Charter

How Many Days for Central Vietnam

If you are planning Da Nang and Hoi An itinerary and thinking about how long you need to spend in the area, I would suggest you by spending five days in Central Vietnam to truly get a good feel for the city, especially if you’re a first time visitor. As always, longer stays are better to know more details about the cities. But if you don’t have the time, then you should be able to see the top attractions in Central Vietnam within 3 to 5 days.

If you only have 3 days , then you should skip one of the places in the above three cities. Depending on your interest, we recommended focusing on Hoi An and Da Nang if you only are short of time. You can explore the Hoi An on your two days and then spend the last day at Da Nang.

If you have 5 days and more , then you can adapt this Central Vietnam itinerary. Described in this itinerary are the best places to visit along with a few recommended places to eat during your 5 days in Central Vietnam if you have more or less time to spend here.

Central Vietnam: Da Nang and Hoi An Itinerary

Where you start depends on your personal preference and where you are coming from. During my trip to Central Vietnam, I arrived via Da Nang International Airport and first traveled to Hoi An and spend three days there. Instead of keep changing accommodation, we prefer to stay in Hoi An and make a day trip to Hue.

Lastly, we traveled down back to Da Nang for another two days before taking the flight back to our home country. From the city center, it’s a 15-minute drive back to Da Nang International Airport.

Central Vietnam itinerary to Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang:

• Day 1: Arrive at Da Nang Airport and headed to Hoi An. Explore Hoi An.
• Day 2: Hue Imperial City.
• Day 3: My Son Sanctuary.
• Day 4: Ba Na Hill.
• Day 5: Da Nang City.

DAY 1: Arrive in Central Vietnam. Explore Hoi An

Welcome to Central Vietnam. First thing first, we headed to Hoian Central Hotel , our stay for the next three days, with the pre-booked private airport transfer via Klook. Our accommodation in Hoi An has located nearby the ancient town. Once settled down, we walked to the old town and start exploring.

Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An is a charming old town filled with colorful lanterns all over the place. It is the busiest and most touristy part of Central Vietnam. However, it’s also the most beautiful.

Claiming a UNESCO World Heritage City title in 1999, walking through Hoi An feels as if you’re walking through an ancient fairy tale. The old wooden houses, the few or no cars on the streets. This charming town gives me the feeling of cozy.

Exploring and getting lost in Hoi An is a great adventure. Don’t rush, and walk yourself through small alleys in the 400-year-old town to discover the entire hidden gem.

This is where you’ll find many street vendors, cafés, street art, and picturesque moments. You can literally spend all day just walking around the streets, taking pictures, eating street food, and drinking fresh beer.

Don’t miss the Japanese Bridge , a 300 years old wooden covered bridge, by the Japanese as a way to connect with the Chinese quarter. It is one of the iconic attractions in Hoi An and worth stopping by for a photo.

In the evening, thousands of lanterns are illuminated in the Hoai river and the streets fill up with people watching the sunset, chatting, and strolling. Seeing it for the very first time literally took my breath away. It is so indescribably beautiful and feels almost like a dream. A must-do in every Hoi An itinerary.

Related Read : Hoi An Travel Guide: A Complete Travel Guide

Our Day 2 in Da Nang and Hoi An itinerary is all about the Hue Imperial City . The citadel is a great place to learn the history of Vietnam, especially the Nguyen Dynasty. Hue used to be the capital of Vietnam ages ago. Today, the main attraction is the ancient Imperial City. UNESCO included the Hue Imperial Citadel on its list of world heritage sites in 1993 and it is very deserving of that.

Sightseeing can include the ornate Imperial Citadel, colorful Thanh Toan Bridge, royal tombs, and the Forbidden Purple City. All the attractions are eye-openers on the lives of the Vietnamese royalty then and the influence of the Chinese and French on them. It is a great location to spend time in and wander back into the past.

Hue can also be visited on a day trip from Hoi An, so if you are short on time and are not heading further North, consider booking a guided tour. With a guided day tour you will get to see all of the best attractions in Hue without having to worry about transportation or finding accommodation for the night.

We recommended booking a guided or private tour as it will save you a lot of time and energy. You can book a private city tour to Hue from Hoi An here .

DAY 3: My Son Sanctuary

There are a few decent day trips from Hoi An that can be planned on the Central Vietnam itinerary. Among them, My Son Sanctuary is a must-go if you like history and ancient architecture. Constructed by the kingdom of Champa, these ruins were declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1999. It is an ancient Hindu archeological complex featured with stone sculptures of Hindu deities and towers. There were originally over 70 temples; unfortunately, most of them were destroyed during the Vietnam War. But still, the remains evoke the civilization they represent. The 1,300-year-old ruin hidden in the jungle is located about an hour from Hoi An.

We took the My Son Sanctuary Day Tour from Hoi An from Klook . The tour bus picked us up from the hotel to explore one of Southeast Asia’s greatest archaeological sites. We spend about 2 hours touring the monuments. The scale of the monuments is not that impressive, but it is beautiful in its way. On our way back we had a relaxing boat cruise with a simple and light lunch which provides a nice view of Hoi An from the river. A decent half-day trip from Hoi An.

After the trip to My Son, we headed to Da Nang, the largest city in the area. From Hoi An, we checked out of our hotel and took a private transfer to Da Nang, where we would be staying for two nights. Again, we pre-booked our transport arrangement from Hoi An to our hotel at Da Nang via Klook .

DAY 4: Ba Na Hill

The Ba Na Hill, a beautiful hilltop resort perched atop a mountain in Central Vietnam, is a must-visit in Da Nang. Originally built by French colonists in 1919 as a leisure destination for French tourists, Ba Na Hill is now a popular hilltop resort for visitors all around the world. There are many things to do and see in Ba Na Hill for a leisure holiday.

Take the Ba Na Cable car and enjoy panoramic views of the lush forests from the longest non-stop single-track cable car, stroll at cobblestoned streets and Parisian-style architecture at Frech Village , and get lost in Le Jardin d’Amour – The Paradise of Flowers.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visitors can take a break and enjoy a glass of wine at the 100-year-old Debay Cellar . For a family traveler, the Fantasy Theme Park is an ideal entertainment destination to have fun together with kids and family.

Don’t forget to take a stroll and take some excellent photos at the Golden Bridge . Recognized as “the world’s most impressive walking bridge”, the striking footbridge is resembled two, gigantic hands holding up a shiny piece of gold to the gods above the misty clouds of Vietnam. The 150-meter-long bridge gives visitors plenty of space to take in the scenic views. It is so crowded, so make sure to get here early before the crowds.

Central Vietnam Travel Tips : Buying the Ba Na Hill Admission Ticker via Klook was fast and cheaper. The admission ticket is easy to redeem without waiting in line to purchase the ticket. This will save you a ton of time and hassle. Besides, Klook also has some integrated programs like Ba Na Hill ticket and shuttle bus, Ba Na Hill ticket with the lunch buffet. Book a trip and make your way from Da Nang to Ba Na Hills, take the cable car, and discover a wine cellar.

Klook Exclusive : Roundtrip Shuttle Bus from Da Nang to Sun World Ba Na Hills

Getting to Ba Na Hill

The easiest and most common way to get to Ba Na Hills is to drive a rented car or take a taxi to the foot of the mountain (Ba Na Cable Car Service Parking Lot), then take the cable car up to the resort. Alternatively, you may also hire a private charter driver to drive you to and fro Ba Na Hills at your preferred time.

• Opening Hours : Daily from 07:30 to 21:30
• Admission Ticket : 750,000₫ Per Person (inclusive of all cable car rides, entrance to Fantasy Park and everything else — except for entry into the Wax Museum)

DAY 5: Da Nang

We spend our last day on the Central Vietnam itinerary chilling around in the Da Nang city. In the morning, we rented a scooter as our transportation for the day.

We first departed to Han Market with a shopping session . Don’t miss this one if you’re into markets. You can buy many local products as well as food and spices there. The market is open from 8:00 to 16:00. Once we finished, we also headed to their food court area and tried the traditional local Vietnamese noodles. That’s how locals live like!

We then visited the Da Nang’s Cathedral; a pink church built by a French priest in 1923. Located in the middle of the city, it’s known as Rooster Church due to the imposing bell tower that’s topped with a rooster weathercock. Impressive pink facade, and lots of nativity grotto depictions all around it.

We next drove all the way to the Son Tra Mountain . The views on the way up are spectacular. We also stopped by the lady Buddha to check out the impressive statue and immerse ourselves in a beautiful view. The bike journey is the most adventurous experience you need to get when you come to Da Nang city. A perfect spot to get away from the urban’s hustle and bustle.

Spend the remaining day at Phuoc My Beach , one of the most beautiful and historically significant beaches in Vietnam. There is a long stretch of warm sand with intermittent supervised swimming areas. The beach is popular among locals and lots of people enjoy the water activities here. We have a simple dinner nearby the beach.

Dragon Bridge

Lastly, we went to the DHC Marina to admire the beautiful Dragon Bridge . The ironic 666m long Dragon Bridge is an interesting landmark in Danang. Every evening, the dragon bridge is lit on and illuminated with colorful LED lights. Besides, the dragon is also scheduled for breathing fire and water at 21:00 every Saturday and Sunday. You can see the performances from the local coffee shops with a rooftop bar, and waterfront, or onboard the cruise to admire the night scene of Han River.

Just a few steps away from the Dragon Bridge are the Love Bridge, on the romantic Han River . We enjoy the relaxing stroll along the waterfront with the hearts all lit up.

Related Read: Things to Do in Da Nang: A Travel Guide Blog

Where To Stay

Next, we would personally recommend basing yourself in Hoi An and Da Nang for a few days each.

Stay in Hoi An as there is simply much more to do in the town. We recommend choosing hotels in Hoi An within short walking distance to the old town. Staying nearby an ancient old town offers an old town charm and easy for getting around. My hotels pick in Hoi An are Hoi An Luxury Hotel & Spa (luxury) and  Hoian Central Hotel (mid-range).

Stay in Da Nang for a nice beach experience. Da Nang is blessed with a nice shoreline facing the South China Sea and is well known as “the city of beaches” with a 60-kilometer coastal line. There are plenty of compelling resort options and you can find plenty of award-winning luxury resorts here.

Some good recommendations are Premier Village Danang Resort  at Bac My An Beach and  Four Points by Sheraton Danang  at MyKhe Beach. Both are popular picks among travelers to Da Nang.

Overview: Travel Itinerary To Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue

All in all, there’s certainly a lot to see and do in Central Vietnam. You can easily spend a few days or weeks here and you’ll still have something new to do. Hopefully, this 5-day Da Nang and Hoi An itinerary helps you plan your holiday in Central Vietnam. You can see the best of the Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang in a short time, and make you want to come back for more.

Lastly, we are definitely not an expert on Vietnam but we do hope you find this Central Vietnam travel guide useful. I’m only sharing some of the things I learned from our trips to Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang. Thanks for reading our Danang and Hoi An itinerary. Plan your trip and head to Central Vietnam for a colorful getaway like no other!

More Da Nang and Hoi An travel blog posts :

• Things to Do in Da Nang: A Travel Guide Blog
• Where To Stay in Da Nang: Best Areas and Hotels
• Things To Do in Hoi An: A Complete Travel Guide
• Where To Stay in Hoi An: Best Homestay and Hotels

Traveling to Northern Vietnam :

• Things To Do in Hanoi Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• Where To Stay in Hanoi: Best Areas and Hotels
• A Trip To Halong Bay: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog
• Things To Do in Sapa Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• Where To Stay in Sapa: Best Hotels and Homestays

Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City?  Feel free to read on our Saigon travel stories.

Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary: A Saigon Travel Guide Blog

Where to stay in ho chi minh city (saigon).

Lastly, traveling to Phu Quoc? Feel free to read on our Phu Quoc travel stories.

Ultimate Travel Guide Blog to Phu Quoc itinerary

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Experience Central Vietnam with Local

Do what locals do.

We provide real experiences in which you join local everyday works

Eat Like a Local

Central Vietnam's cities have the most diverse and sophisticated cuisine in Vietnam

about CENTRAL VIETNAM

From north to south, Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An are three famous tourist cities in Central Vietnam. While Hue and Hoi An boast of their own Unesco world heritage site recognition, Da Nang is the most worth-living city nationally. This trio are loved by travelers by the finest sandy beaches, breath-taking attractions, diverse cuisine with plenty of scrumptious dishes, friendly people and many choices of hotels.

This lovely coastal city is the capital of entire Central Vietnam. It boasts of romantic Han River with bridges, world-class beaches, magnificent mountains, diverse cuisine and flamboyant annual fireworks festival.

By a large river, historic streets in Hoi An are lantern lit and lined by tailors, restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops. The town was a busy trading port from the 15th to 19th century and had the Unesco world heritage tittle in 1999.

Some 100 km north of Da Nang and Hoi An, Hue is the former capital of Vietnam. It’s famous for grand buildings constructed by Nguyen emperors from 1802 to 1945. Hue cuisine is most abundant and sophisticated.

Three Cities In One

A general guide to Da Nang, Hoi An & Hue in Central Vietnam

Our Tours and Experiences

Everyday, we run private and premium small group tours/experiences guided by local. We base in Hoi An, the most pretty town of Vietnam.

Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills Night Tour

Golden Hands Bridge Tour In Sunrise or Sunset (1/2 Day)

Cam Kim Island Bicycle Tour From Hoi An

Cham Island Tour From Hoi An (Group Tour)

Cham Island Tour From Da Nang (Group Tour)

Hoi An Vegetarian Food Tour

Hoi An Evening Walking Food Tour Through Laneways

Private Hoi An Basket Boat Tour (Shuttle Bus, Bicycle, Bike)

Half-day Am Phu Cave Tour (Private)

Hoi An Countryside Tour (Bicycle, Car, Electric Shuttle)

Da Nang Tour Package From Singapore

Hoi An Evening Tour From Da Nang

Hoi An Walking Food Tour Through Laneways

My Son Sanctuary and Hoi An Old Town Tour with Thu Bon River Cruise

My Son Day Trip From Hoi An including Marble Mountains and Basket Boat

Half Day Hoi An City Tour With River Cruise

Son Tra Peninsula Tour with Marble Mountains (Private/Small Group)

Hue Day Trip From Hoi An with Hai Van Pass, River Cruise & Lunch

Hoi An Ancient Town and Countryside Tour (Bests of Hoi An Tour)

Hoi An Tour From Da Nang Airport (Private, Optional Lunch)

Hoi An Day Trip From Da Nang (Marble Mountains, Basket Boat, Old Town)

Da Nang City Tour From Airport (Private, Optional Lunch)

Hoi An City Tour with Lantern Class, Lantern Boat, Night Market & Local Food Sampling

Marble mountains, basket boat ride & hoi an old town walking tour.

Marble Mountains & Golden Bridge Day Tour with Buffet Lunch

Marble Mountains & Monkey Mountain Tour (Half-day, Private)

Private Golden Bridge Sunrise Tour (Half-day, Optional Lunch)

Hoi An Ancient Town & Golden Bridge Day Tour (Private/Small Group)

My Son Sanctuary & Golden Bridge Day Tour (Private/Small Group)

Private My Son Sanctuary Sunrise or Sunset Tour

Full Day Hoi An Ancient Town & Countryside Experience With Local

Full Day My Son Sanctuary & Hoi An Countryside Tour With Local

Full Day Hoi An Ancient Town & Coconut Village Experience

Son Tra Peninsula, Marble Mountains and Hoi An City Tour

Half-day Marble Mountains Tour from Da Nang or Hoi An

Da Nang Cave Tour (Half Day Underground Tour in Da Nang)

Hoi An Old Town & Lantern Making Class (Morning Tour, Half-day)

Full Day Bests of Da Nang & Hoi An Old Town Walking Tour

Full Day My Son Tour From Da Nang with Da Nang City Tour

My Son Sanctuary Tour From Hoi An or Da Nang With Local Guide

Hue Day Trip from Da Nang or Hoi An via Hai Van Pass with Lunch

Full Day Golden Bridge & Ba Na Hills Tour With Buffet Lunch

Full Day My Son Sanctuary Tour & Hoi An Old Town With Local

Half Day Da Nang Museums and Bridges

Da Nang City Discovery

Da Nang at a Glance (The Best Half Day Da Nang City Tour)

Full-day My Son Tour From Da Nang or Hoi An & Marble Mountains

Our travelers.

Our Travel Guides

Traveler guides to most fantastic places to explore, written down by locals and experienced tourism workers.

Bach Ma National Park: Hiking, Trekking in Da Nang and Hoi An

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Hoi An Wet Season: What to Do in Hoi An When It Rains?

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Thanh Ha Terracotta Park

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Vinwonders Nam Hoi An Theme Park (formerly Vinpearl Nam Hoi An)

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Am Phu Cave Complete Travel Guide

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Hoi An or Hue: Which is Better?

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The Official Hoi An Travel Guide (MUST READ)

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The Hoi An Market (Hoi An Central Market) Complete Guide

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Hoi An Memories Show: The Best of Hoi An Impression Theme Park

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Hoi An Bridge: Famous Bridges in Hoi An

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How to Get From Hoi An to My Son Sanctuary

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Hoi An’s Chinese Assembly Halls and Chinese Temples

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Hoi An Walking Tours: Heritage, Foods, Photography & Locals

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Hoi An Self Guided Walking Tour (Hoi An By Yourself)

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How to Visit Golden Bridge Vietnam

The Golden Hand Bridge of Ba Na hills today is a dream place to visit for many travelers. Since it opened in June 2018, millions of people have set their

Unique Experiences in Hoi An and Why?

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An Bang Beach: A Guide to Hoi An’s Best Beach

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Experiences in Hoi An: Get Insight Into Hoi An’s Local Culture

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Things to Do in Ba Na Hills Besides Golden Bridge

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Hoi An Nightlife: What to Do in Hoi An At Night?

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Hoi An Countryside: Villages, Rice Fields & Tours

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How to Get to Golden Bridge From Hoi An

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Hoi An Free Things to Do: Budget Travel in Hoi An Vietnam

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Hoi An Half-Day Tours: Guide to Half Day Trips From Hoi An

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Hoi An Day Tours: A Guide to Best Day Trips From Hoi An

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Hoi An Beach: A Guide to All Beaches in Hoi An Vietnam

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Hoi An Food Specialties

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How to Get From Hoi An to Da Nang

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Hoi An Cheap Things to Do: All Solo Travelers Need to Know

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Hoi An Best Things To Do: Recommendations from Local Experts

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Hoi An Things to Do: All What Can You Do in Hoi An Vietnam

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Hoi An Ancient Town Tour

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Golden Bridge Da Nang: A Guide to The Iconic Da Nang Bridge

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Da Nang Mountain Temple: Marble Mountain’s Pagodas, More

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Da Nang Caves: Underground World of the Marble Mountains

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The Marble Mountains: Guide to Da Nang’s Iconic Mountain

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The Hue Abandoned Water Park (Thuy Tien Lake Waterpark)

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Perfume River Cruise: Guide to Best Boat Tour in Hue Vietnam

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Hue Imperial City and Forbidden City

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The narrowest part of the country holds an astonishingly dense collection of sights. From the south, you’ll come first to the town of Hoi An , highly traditional and hugely popular on account of its wonderful old town architecture and superb culinary scene. Further north is Da Nang, whose bars, restaurants and sleek new buildings make it enjoyable in a more contemporary sense. Both places are good bases for a visit to the Cham temple complex at My Son, or for a day out at one of the local beaches. Then there’s Hue, erstwhile capital of the Nguyen dynasty. A visit to the old Imperial City, with its splendid palace buildings and manicured gardens, is like a taking a step into the past. Lastly are the sights pertaining to the American War in the famed Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The area marked the divide between North and South Vietnam, which, some would argue, still exists today.

What to see in Central Vietnam

Best time to visit central vietnam, central vietnam’s top cultural attractions, the best hotels in central vietnam, the best restaurants in central vietnam, tailor-made travel itineraries for vietnam, created by local experts.

10 days  / from 2150 USD

Vietnam Culinary Discovery

Vietnamese cuisine can be divided into three categories, each pertaining to a specific region, namely the North, Centre and South. You will visit all of these on this culinary tour of Vietnam. Awaken all of your senses to the wonderful sights, sounds and aromas of this fascinating country.

16 days  / from 2150 USD

Very Vietnam

Vietnam is full of surprises, seamlessly mixing both ancient and modern. See rice paddies, traditional villages, markets, temples and pagodas. Discover romantic cities, cruise around mystical Halong Bay, laze on pristine beaches and get out and about in exuberant Ho Chi Minh City.

4 days  / from 550 USD

Cultural Saigon

Southern Vietnam is home to modern Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant southern capital full of historic attraction and old Saigonese charm. Soak up some café culture, enjoy authentic street food, and get a taste of the city’s thriving markets.

Tailor-made trips for   Vietnam

You’ll notice great differences in weather, cuisine, language and even local character to the north and south of the Ben Hai River, which runs through the DMZ. However, Vietnam was not always divided along this point – it was previously the Hoanh Son Mountains north of Dong Hoi that formed the cultural and political line between the Chinese-dominated sphere to the north, and the Indianized Champa kingdom to the south. As independent Vietnam grew in power in the eleventh century, so its armies pushed southwards to the next natural frontier, the Hai Van Pass near Da Nang. Here again, the Cham resisted further invasion until the fifteenth century, when their great temple complex at My Son was seized and their kingdom shattered.

Since then, other contenders have battled back and forth over this same ground, among them the Nguyen and Trinh lords, whose simmering rivalry ended in victory for the southern Nguyen and the emergence of Hue as the nation’s capital in the nineteenth century. The Nguyen dynasty transformed Hue into a stately Imperial City, whose palaces, temples and grand mausoleums now constitute one of the highlights of a visit to Vietnam, despite the ravages they suffered during successive wars. In 1954, Vietnam was divided at the Seventeenth Parallel, only 100km north of Hue, where the Ben Hai River and the DMZ marked the border between North and South Vietnam until reunification in 1975. Though there’s little to see on the ground these days, the vast cemeteries of the DMZ are a poignant reminder of those who fought here on both sides, and to the civilians who lost their lives in the bitter conflict.

The American War has been relegated to history in modern Da Nang, a fast-changing city determined to emulate Singapore or Seoul. The compact historic town of Hoi An , meanwhile, with its core of traditional, wood-built merchants’ houses and jaunty Chinese Assembly Halls, is a particularly captivating place, and for many a highlight of their trip to Vietnam. Inland from Hoi An , the Cham spiritual core, My Son, survives as a haunting array of overgrown ruins, some now partially but tastefully restored, while to the east and north of Hoi An you’ll find a succession of beaches that are undergoing rapid development.

This region has a particularly complicated climate as it forms a transitional zone between the north and south of Vietnam. In general, around Da Nang and Hue the rainy season lasts from September to February, with most rain falling between late September and December; during this season it’s not unusual for road and rail links to be cut. Hue suffers particularly badly and, even during the “dry season” from March to August, it’s possible to have several days of torrential downpours, giving the city an annual rainfall average of three metres. Overall, the best time to visit this region is in spring, from February to late May, before both temperatures and humidity reach their summer maximum (averaging around 30°C), or just at the end of the summer before the rains break in September.

Seven of the best things to see and do from our Central Vietnam Travel Guide.

• Hoi An Stroll the riverside by lantern while waiting for your tailor-made clothes to measure up in this laidback city. Discover more of Hoi An .

Travellers agree that central Vietnam does it best – try the assorted specialities of Hoi An and find out why.

Majestic Cham ruins covered in moss, grass and leaves – rise early to see them before the crowds.

Admire the city view from the immense Lady Buddha statue, see the Dragon Bridge breathe fire and savour gourmet seafood in central Vietnam’s newest hotspot.

The dizzying road that snakes up and over the “Pass of the Ocean Clouds” is now world-famous thanks to a Top Gear special.

Cross the Perfume River to meander through the intricately decorated buildings that emperors once called home.

The most interesting sight in the famed DMZ: a warren of dens where an entire village sheltered during the war.

Welcoming, family-run hotel set back from the street in a quiet residential area. Its 24 rooms are arranged in an L-shape around a relaxing communal garden and pool; they’re highly attractive, with petals strewn across the beds, and superior rooms have delightful stone-floor showers. The breakfast buffet is another big selling point.

Comfortable and intimate hotel with exceptionally attentive staff who try to make your stay as restful as possible. It has all mod cons, such as cable TV, a/c and small pool; the more expensive rooms have balconies overlooking water- spinach fields (great view from the restaurant too). Many guests return again and again.

This comfortable hotel on My Khe beach offers a good compromise if you want to stay by the sea without paying top dollar. Rooms are bright and well maintained, and staff go out of their way to be helpful.

Superb value, friendly staff and mouthwatering breakfasts at this small hotel, which has become a real favourite with budget travellers to the city. Staff have a habit of welcoming you back with a glass of juice – even if you’ve just popped to the shops.

Formerly the French governor’s residence (hence the name), and overlooking the Perfume River, this M Gallery hotel blends early twentieth-century Art Deco design with excellent services. There’s a palpable colonial air to the place, one best savoured with a cocktail by the riverside pool.

Probably Hoi An’s most popular restaurant, this place can accommodate lots of customers on two floors, but it’s still often packed, and for good reason – everything is delicious, beautifully presented and served with a smile. Try the roast duck with banana flower salad; it’s a masterful blend of tastes and textures. Owner Ms Vy runs several other restaurants in town, plus the popular Taste Vietnam cookery class.

Hidden away down an alley off Le Loi (turn at no. 60), this restaurant is a gem. Dine on high-quality, thoughtfully prepared Vietnamese cuisine in a romantic candlelit garden, with live traditional music every night and excellent service.

This two-storey restaurant and bar is probably Da Nang’s most popular choice for expat diners, and the upstairs balcony seats with views of the promenade and Dragon Bridge are always first to be occupied. Sharply attired staff float around upstairs delivering burgers, seafood baskets and steaks. The downstairs bar is also a good place to drink.

The shady garden of this Spanish-Italian restaurant is a popular retreat for travellers’ and expats alike. The kitchen produces home-made pasta, tosta and burgers with a fusion of local and imported ingredients, while the bar does a roaring trade in cocktails and craft beer.

Located 2km west of the citadel, this atmospheric compound consists of five ancient wooden houses, three of which function as restaurants, one as an art gallery and one as a garden house. They serve both royal cuisine and Western fusion dishes, and this is the place to go for the full “Imperial Hue” feeling. There are frequent performances of traditional music and martial arts, and cooking classes are also offered.

Charming café serving a range of coffees, juices, smoothies and ice cream, plus tasty main dishes. Owner Tam is your one-stop Mr Fixit for all things DMZ and as the café is a few kilometres north along the river, most people eat here pre- or post- a DMZ tour.

The largest city in Central Vietnam, Da Nang is primarily used by travellers as a jumping-off point for Hoi An , a city that has no airport or train station of its own. However, stick around a while and you’ll find an unexpectedly amiable place, whose burgeoning middle class are seeing their cosmopolitan desires sated with a slew of trendy bars and cafés. The old French presence is also apparent in the leafy boulevards and colonial edifices along the riverfront promenade.

The elongated oval of Da Nang occupies a small headland protruding into the southern curve of Da Nang Bay. The city faces east, fronting onto Bach Dang and the Han River, across which the narrow Son Tra Peninsula shelters it from the South China Sea. The city itself harbours few specific sights of its own, beyond the wonderful Cham Museum with its unparallelled collection of sculpture from the period. However, there are a number of interesting sights in the area – just across the Son Tra Peninsula is China Beach, an increasingly developed stretch of sand from which you can see Monkey Mountain to the north and the Marble Mountains to the south.

Brief history of Da Nang

During the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, trading vessels waiting to unload at Fai Fo (Hoi An) often sheltered in nearby Da Nang Bay, until Hoi An’s harbour began silting up and Da Nang developed into a major port in its own right. After 1802, when Hué became capital of Vietnam, Da Nang naturally served as the principal point of arrival for foreign delegations to the royal court. However, the real spur to the city’s growth came in the American War when the neighbouring air base spawned the greatest concentration of US military personnel in South Vietnam.

China Beach

The seaward side of the Son Tra Peninsula provides Da Nang with its nearest unpolluted beach – My Khe, the original China Beach, though its rival to the south, Non Nuoc Beach, also claims the same sobriquet. My Khe is a long, if not exactly glorious, stretch of sand less than 3km southeast of central Da Nang. This was where US servicemen were helicoptered in for R&R during the American War, though these days it’s far more popular with seafood-craving locals. A xe om ride here should cost 30,000đ (slightly more at night) for the ride from Da Nang.

Da Nang during the war

The city of Da Nang mushroomed after the arrival of the first American combat troops on March 8, 1965. An advance guard of two battalions of Marines waded ashore at Red Beach in Da Nang Bay, providing the press with a photo opportunity that included amphibious landing craft, helicopters and young Vietnamese women handing out garlands – not quite as the generals had envisaged. The Marines had come to defend Da Nang’s massive US Air Force base; as the troops flew in so the base sprawled. Eventually Da Nang became "a small American city", as journalist John Pilger remembers it, "with its own generators, water purification plants, hospitals, cinemas, bowling alleys, ball parks, tennis courts, jogging tracks, supermarkets and bars, lots of bars". For most US troops the approach to Da Nang airfield formed their first impression of Vietnam, and it was here they came to take a break from the war at the famous China Beach.

At the same time the city swelled with thousands of refugees, mostly villagers cleared from "free-fire zones" but also people in search of work – labourers, cooks, laundry staff, pimps, prostitutes and drug pushers, all inhabiting a shantytown called Dogpatch on the base perimeter. Da Nang’s population rose inexorably: twenty thousand in the 1940s, fifty thousand in 1955 and, some estimate, a peak of one million during the American years. North Vietnamese mortar shells periodically fell in and around the base, but the city’s most violent scenes occurred when two South Vietnamese generals engaged in a little power struggle. In March 1966 Vice Air Marshal Ky, then prime minister of South Vietnam, ousted a popular Hué overlord, General Thi, following his open support of Buddhist dissidents. Demonstrations spread from Hué to Da Nang where troops loyal to Thi seized the airfield in what amounted to a mini civil war. After much posturing Ky crushed the revolt two months later, killing hundreds of rebel troops and many civilians. In the preceding chaos, the beleaguered rebels held forty Western journalists hostage for a brief period in Da Nang’s largest pagoda, Chua Tinh Hoi, while streets around filled with Buddhist protesters.

When the North Vietnamese Army finally arrived to liberate Da Nang on March 29, 1975, they had less of a struggle. Communist units had already cut the road south, and panic-stricken South Vietnamese soldiers battled for space on any plane or boat leaving the city, firing on unarmed civilians. Many drowned in the struggle to reach fishing boats, while planes and tanks were abandoned to the enemy. Da Nang had been all but deserted by South Vietnamese forces, leaving the mighty base to, according to Pilger, be "taken by a dozen NLF cadres waving white handkerchiefs from the back of a truck".

Pass of the Ocean Clouds

Thirty kilometres north of Da Nang, the first and most dramatic of three mountain spurs off the Truong Son range cuts across Vietnam’s pinched central waist, all the way to the sea. This thousand-metre-high barrier forms a climatic frontier blocking the southward penetration of cold, damp winter airstreams, which often bury the tops under thick cloud banks and earn it the title Hai Van, or "Pass of the Ocean Clouds". These mountains once formed a national frontier between Dai Viet and Champa, and Hai Van’s continuing strategic importance is marked by a succession of forts, pillboxes and ridge-line defensive walls erected by Nguyen-dynasty Vietnamese, French, Japanese and American forces.

Da Nang to Hue

Up the coast from Da Nang, Highway 1 zigzags over the Hai Van Pass, a wonderfully scenic ride by road or (especially) rail. These days, most buses cut out the pass via the Hai Van Tunnel, leaving a more peaceful journey for those that choose to take on the pass. From the top of the pass there are superb views, weather permitting, over the sweeping curve of Da Nang Bay, with glimpses of the rail lines looping and tunnelling along the cliff. The two routes converge again where the tunnel emerges, at the small beach town of Lang Co, whose beach boasts brilliant white sands – and is still, as yet, markedly undeveloped. To the west is Bach Ma National Park, a gorgeous place where the remains of another French-era hill station are swamped by some of the lushest vegetation in Vietnam.

Still packed with the accoutrements of its dynastic past, Hué is one of Vietnam’s most engaging cities. It boasts an unparalleled opportunity for historic and culinary exploration, thanks in no small part to its status as national capital from 1802–1945. Though the Nguyen dynasty is no more, Hué still exudes something of a regal, dignified air – its populace, indeed, are considered somewhat highbrow by the rest of the country. It’s still a breeding ground for poets, artists, scholars and intellectuals, and you’ll notice far more youngsters here than in other cities – largely because, unlike elsewhere in Vietnam, female students still wear the traditional ao dai.

Hué repays exploration at a leisurely pace, and contains enough in the way of historical interest to swallow up a few days with no trouble at all. The city divides into three clearly defined urban areas, each with its own distinct character. The nineteenth century walled citadel, on the north bank of the Perfume River, contains the once magnificent Imperial City as well as an extensive grid of attractive residential streets and prolific gardens. Across Dong Ba Canal to the east lies Phu Cat, the original merchants’ quarter of Hué where ships once pulled in, now a crowded district of shophouses, Chinese Assembly Halls and pagodas. What used to be called the European city, a triangle of land caught between the Perfume River’s south bank and the Phu Cam Canal, is now Hué’s modern administrative centre, where you’ll also find most hotels and tourist services.

Pine-covered hills form the city’s southern bounds; this is where the Nguyen emperors built their palatial Royal Mausoleums. And through it all meanders the Perfume River, named somewhat fancifully from the tree resin and blossoms it carries, passing on its way the celebrated, seven-storey tower of Thien Mu Pagoda. If you can afford the time, cycling out to Thuan An Beach makes an enjoyable excursion. Hué is also the main jumping-off point for day-tours of the DMZ.

With all this to offer, Hué is inevitably one of Vietnam’s pre-eminent tourist destinations. The choice and standard of accommodation are generally above average, as are its restaurants serving the city’s justly famous speciality foods. Nevertheless, the majority of people pass through Hué fairly quickly, partly because high entrance fees make visiting more than a couple of the major sights beyond many budgets, and partly because of its troublesome weather. Hué suffers from the highest rainfall in the country, mostly falling over just three months from October to December when the city regularly floods for a few days, causing damage to the historic architecture, though heavy downpours are possible at any time of year.

Brief history of Hue

The land on which Hué now stands belonged to the Kingdom of Champa until 1306, when territory north of Da Nang was exchanged for the hand of a Vietnamese princess under the terms of a peace treaty. The first Vietnamese to settle in the region established their administrative centre near present-day Hué at a place called Hoa Chan, and then in 1558 Lord Nguyen Hoang arrived from Hanoi as governor of the district, at the same time establishing the rule of the Nguyen lords over southern Vietnam which was to last for the next two hundred years. In the late seventeenth century the lords moved the citadel to its present location where it developed into a major town and cultural centre – Phu Xuan, which briefly became the capital under the Tay Son emperor Quang Trung (1788–1801).

The Nguyen dynasty

However, it was the next ruler of Vietnam who literally put Hué on the map – Emperor Gia Long, founder of the Nguyen Dynasty. From 1802, he sought to unify the country by moving the capital, lock, stock and dynastic altars, from Thang Long (Hanoi) to the renamed city of Hué. Gia Long owed his throne to French military support but his Imperial City was very much a Chinese concept, centred on a Forbidden City reserved for the sovereign, with separate administrative and civilian quarters.

The Nguyen emperors were Confucian, conservative rulers, generally suspicious of all Westerners yet unable to withstand the power of France. In 1884 the French were granted land northwest of Hué citadel, and they then seized the city entirely in 1885, leaving the emperors as nominal rulers. Under the Nguyen, Hué became a famous centre of the arts, scholarship and Buddhist learning, but their extravagant building projects and luxurious lifestyle demanded crippling taxes.

Hué ceased to be the capital of Vietnam when Emperor Bao Dai abdicated in 1945; two years later a huge fire destroyed many of the city’s wooden temples and palaces. From the early twentieth century the city had been engulfed in social and political unrest led by an anti-colonial educated elite, which simmered away until the 1960s. Tensions finally boiled over in May 1963 when troops fired on thousands of Buddhist nationalists demonstrating against the strongly Catholic regime of President Ngo Dinh Diem. The protests escalated into a wave of self-immolations by monks and nuns until government forces moved against the pagodas at the end of the year, rounding up the Buddhist clergy and supposed activists in the face of massive public demonstrations.

During the 1968 Tet Offensive Hué was torn apart again when the North Vietnamese Army (NVA) held the city for 25 days. Communist forces entered Hué in the early hours of January 31, hoisted their flag above the citadel and found themselves in control of the whole city bar two small military compounds. Armed with lists of names, they began searching out government personnel, sympathizers of the Southern regime, intellectuals, priests, Americans and foreign aid workers. Nearly three thousand bodies were later discovered in mass graves around the city – the victims were mostly civilians who had been shot, beaten to death or buried alive. But the killing hadn’t finished: during the ensuing counter-assault as many as five thousand North Vietnamese and Viet Cong, 384 Southern troops and 142 American soldiers died, plus at least another thousand civilians. Hué was all but levelled in the massive fire power unleashed on NVA forces holed up in the citadel but it took a further ten days of agonizing, house-to-house combat to drive the Communists out, in what Stanley Karnow described as “the most bitter battle” of the entire war. Seven years later, on March 26, 1975, the NVA were back to liberate Hué in its pivotal position as the first major town south of the Seventeenth Parallel.

The mammoth task of rebuilding Hué has been going on now for more than twenty years but received a boost in 1993 when UNESCO listed the city as a World Heritage Site, which served to mobilize international funding for a whole range of projects, from renovating palaces to the revival of traditional arts and technical skills.

Hue speciality foods

One good argument for staying in Hue an extra couple of days is its many speciality foods, best sampled at local stalls and street kitchens.

Order this afternoon dish and you get a whole trayful of individual plates, each containing a small amount of steamed rice-flour dough topped with spices, shrimp flakes and a morsel of pork crackling; add a little sweetened nuoc mam sauce to each dish and tuck in with a teaspoon. Banh nam, or banh lam, is a similar idea but spread thinly in an oblong, steamed in a banana leaf and eaten with rich nuoc mam sauce. Manioc flour is used instead of rice for banh loc, making a translucent parcel of whole shrimps, sliced pork and spices steamed in a banana leaf, but this time the nuoc mam is pepped up with a dash of chilli. Finally, ram it consists of two small dollops of sticky rice-flour dough, one fried and one steamed, to dip in a spicy sauce. You’ll find good places in which to sample these dishes all over the city.

Probably the most famous Hue dish, a small, crispy yellow pancake made of egg and rice flour, fried up with shrimp, pork and bean sprouts and eaten with a special peanut and sesame sauce (nuoc leo), plus a vegetable accompaniment of star fruit, green banana, lettuce and mint. Amazingly, it’s even more delicious than it sounds.

Spicy rice-noodle beef soup flavoured with citronella, shrimp and basil; also called bun ga with chicken, or bun bo gio heo with beef and pork.

A refreshing drink made from green bean and coconut (che xanh dua), fruit (chetrai cay) or, if you’re lucky, lotus seed (che hat sen).

The Imperial City

A second moat and defensive wall inside the citadel guard the Imperial City, which follows the same symmetrical layout as Beijing’s Forbidden City – though oriented northwest-southeast, rather than north-south. The Vietnamese version, popularly known as Dai Noi ("the Great Enclosure"), has four gates – one in each wall – though by far the most impressive is south-facing Ngo Mon, the Imperial City’s principal entrance. In its heyday the complex must have been truly awe-inspiring, a place of glazed yellow and green roof tiles, pavilions of rich red and gilded lacquer and lotus-filled ponds – all surveyed by the emperor with his entourage of haughty mandarins. However, many of its buildings were badly neglected even before the battle for Hué raged through the Imperial City during Tet 1968, and by 1975 a mere twenty out of the original 148 were left standing among the vegetable plots. Some are in the midst of extensive restorations, and those which have been completed are stunning – notably Thai Hoa Palace, The Mieu complex and Dien Tho. The rest of the Imperial City, especially its northern sector, is a grassed-over expanse full of birds and butterflies where you can still make out foundations and find bullet pockmarks in the plasterwork of ruined walls.

Ngo Mon Gate

In 1833 Emperor Minh Mang replaced an earlier, much less formidable gate with the present dramatic entrance way to the Imperial City, Ngo Mon, considered a masterpiece of Nguyen architecture. Ngo Mon (the "Noon" or "Southwest" Gate) has five entrances: the emperor alone used the central entrance paved with stone; two smaller doorways on either side were for the civil and military mandarins, who only rated brick paving, while another pair of giant openings in the wings allowed access to the royal elephants.

Five Phoenix Watchtower

The bulk of Ngo Mon is constructed of massive stone slabs, but perched on top is an elegant pavilion called the Five Phoenix Watchtower as its nine roofs are said to resemble five birds in flight when viewed from above. Note that the central roof, under which the emperor passed, is covered with yellow-glazed tiles, a feature of nearly all Hué’s royal roofs. Emperors used the watchtower for two major ceremonies each year: the declaration of the lunar New Year; and the announcement of the civil service exam results, depicted here in a lacquer painting. It was also in this pavilion that the last Nguyen emperor, Bao Dai, abdicated in 1945 when he handed over to the new government his symbols of power – a solid gold seal weighing ten kilos and a sheathed sword encrusted with jade.

Thai Hoa Palace

Walking north from Ngo Mon along the city’s symmetrical axis, you pass between two square lakes and a pair of kylin, mythical dew-drinking animals that are harbingers of peace, to reach Thai Hoa Palace ("the Palace of Supreme Harmony"). Not only is this the most spectacular of Hué’s palaces, its interior glowing with sumptuous red and gold lacquers, but it’s also the most important since this was the throne palace, where major ceremonies such as coronations or royal birthdays took place and foreign ambassadors were received (see Ceremonies at the Thai Hoa Palace).

The palace was first constructed in 1805, though the present building dates from 1833 when the French floor tiles and glass door panels were added, and was the only major building in the Imperial City to escape bomb damage. Nevertheless, the throne room’s eighty ironwood pillars, swirling with dragons and clouds, had been eaten away by termites and humidity and were on the point of collapse when rescue work began in 1991. During the restoration every column, weighing two tonnes apiece, had to be replaced manually and then painted with twelve coats of lacquer, each coat taking one month to dry. Behind the throne room a souvenir shop now sells books and tapes of Hué folk songs where once the emperor prepared for his grand entrance. It also contains two large dioramas depicting the Imperial City and flag tower in their heyday.

The Forbidden Purple City

From Thai Hoa Palace the emperor would have walked north through the Great Golden Gate into the third and last enclosure, the Forbidden Purple City. This area, enclosed by a low wall, was reserved for residential palaces, living quarters of the state physician and nine ranks of royal concubines, plus kitchens and pleasure pavilions. Many of these buildings were destroyed in the 1947 fire, leaving most of the Forbidden Purple City as open ground, a "mood piece", haunted by fragments of wall and overgrown terraces.

The Left House and Right House

However, a handful of buildings remain, including the restored Left House and Right House facing each other across a courtyard immediately behind Thai Hoa Palace. Civil and military mandarins would spruce themselves up here before proceeding to an audience with the monarch. Of the two, the Right House (actually to your left – the names refer to the emperor’s viewpoint) is the more complete with its ornate murals and gargantuan mirror in a gilded frame, a gift from the French to Emperor Dong Khanh.

Thai Binh Reading Pavilion

Walking northeast from here you pass behind the Royal Theatre, built in 1826 and now belonging to the University of Fine Arts, to find the Thai Binh Reading Pavilion, an appealing, two-tier structure surrounded by bonsai gardens. The pavilion was built by Thieu Tri and then restored by Khai Dinh, who added the kitsch mosaics. This was where the emperor came to listen to music and commune with nature, but at the time of writing it was in a state of disrepair.

The Ancestral Altars

The other main cluster of sights lies a short walk away in the southwest corner of the Imperial City. Aligned on a south–north axis, the procession kicks off with Hien Lam Cac ("Pavilion of Everlasting Clarity"), a graceful, three-storey structure with some notable woodwork, followed by the Nine Dynastic Urns. Considered the epitome of Hué craftsmanship, the bronze urns were cast during the reign of Minh Mang and are ornamented with scenes of mountains, rivers, rain clouds and wildlife, plus one or two stray bullet marks. Each urn is dedicated to an emperor: the middle urn, which is also the largest at 2600kg, honours Gia Long. They stand across the courtyard from the long, low building of The Mieu, the Nguyens’ dynastic temple erected in 1822 by Minh Mang to worship his father. Since then, altars have been added for each emperor in turn, except Duc Duc and Hiep Hoa, who reigned only briefly, and Bao Dai who died in exile in 1997; the three anti-French sovereigns – Ham Nghi, Thanh Thai and Duy Tan – had to wait until after Independence in 1954 for theirs. Take a look inside to see the line of altar tables, most sporting a portrait or photo of the monarch. Behind each is a bed equipped with a sleeping mat, pillows and other accoutrements and, finally, a shrine holding funeral tablets for the emperor and his wife or wives. Anniversaries of the emperors’ deaths are still commemorated at The Mieu, attended by members of the royal family in all their finery.

Exit The Mieu by its west door, beside a 170-year-old pine tree trained in the shape of a flying dragon, and follow the path north into the next compound to find Hung Mieu. This temple is dedicated to the Nguyen ancestors and specifically to the parents of Gia Long, and is distinguished by its fine carving.

North again, Dien Tho, the queen mother’s residence, is worth a look. Built in a mix of Vietnamese and French architectural styles, the palace later served as Bao Dai’s private residence, and the downstairs reception rooms are now set out with period furniture, echoing the photos of the palace in use in the 1930s.

Traditional entertainment

Under the Nguyen emperors, Hué was the cultural and artistic as well as political capital of Vietnam. A rich tradition of dance and music evolved from popular culture, from the complex rituals of the court and from religious ceremonies. Though much of this legacy has been lost, considerable effort has gone into reviving Hué folk songs, Ca Hué, which you can now sample, drifting down the Perfume River on a balmy Hué evening.

Historically the Perfume River was a place of pleasure where prostitutes cruised in their sampans and artists entertained the gentry with poetry and music. While the former officially no longer exist, today’s folk-song performances are based on the old traditions, eulogizing the city’s beautiful scenery or the ten charms of a Hué woman – including long hair, dreamy eyes, flowing ao dai and a conical hat – while she waits for her lover beside the river. This sounds great, but be warned that the experience can feel somewhat cheap – the fees given to performers are far too low to recruit those with genuine talent, and in 2009 the state of affairs was fiercely lambasted by local authorities.

The city authorities have also instigated a biennial arts festival (held in June) featuring not only folk songs, kite-flying, water-puppetry and other local traditions, but also international groups

Ceremonies at the Thai Hoa Palace

On these occasions the emperor sat on the raised dais, wearing a golden tunic and a crown decorated with nine dragons, under a spectacular gilded canopy. He faced south across the Esplanade of Great Salutations, a stone-paved courtyard where the mandarins stood, civil mandarins to the left and military on the right, lined up in their appointed places beside eighteen stelae denoting the nine subdivided ranks. A French traveller in the 1920s witnessed the colourful spectacle, with "perfume-bearers in royal-blue, fan-bearers in sky-blue waving enormous yellow feather fans, musicians and guardsmen and ranks of mandarins in their curious hats and gorgeous, purple-embroidered dragons, kow-towing down, down on their noses amidst clouds of incense – and all in a setting of blood-red lacquer scrawled with gold.

For the most part the Nguyen emperors lived their lives within Hué’s citadel walls, but on certain occasions they emerged to participate in important rituals at symbolic locations around the city. Today these places are of interest more for their history than anything much to see on the ground, though the mouldering Royal Arena still hints at past spectacles. A visit to at least a couple of the Royal Mausoleums, however, is not to be missed – it’s in these eclectic architectural confections in the hills to the south of Hué that the spirit of the Nguyen emperors lives on. Taking a boat along the Perfume River to get to the best mausoleums also offers the chance to stop off at the Thien Mu Pagoda and Hon Chen Temple on the way.

Thuan An Beach is a bike-ride away, if you have the time and energy, making for an attractive journey across the estuary with views of fish farms to either side, though the beach itself is nothing spectacular. Further afield, one of the most popular excursions from Hué is a whirlwind day-trip round the DMZ. Bach Ma National Park is also within striking distance.

Boat trips on the Perfume River

A sizeable number of people still live in boats on the Perfume River and the waterways of Hué, such as the Dong Ba and Phu Cam canals, despite government efforts to settle them elsewhere. It’s possible to join them, if only temporarily, by taking a boat trip, puttering about in front of the citadel on a misty Hué morning, watching the slow bustle of river life. A day’s boating on the Perfume River is a good way to soak up some of the atmosphere of Hué and do a little gentle sightseeing off the roads. The standard boat trip takes you to Thien Mu Pagoda, Hon Chen Temple and the most rewarding mausoleums, usually those of Tu Duc, Khai Dinh and Minh Mang. However, if you want to visit some of the others or spend more time exploring, it’s usually possible to take a bicycle on the boat and cycle back to Hué, though double-check this when you book the trip. Most tour agents and hotels offer river tours starting at $2 per person, including a very meagre lunch but no guide. However, all entrance fees are extra, which can work out costly at 55,000đ per mausoleum. If you’d rather do it independently, the same agents can arrange charter boats from $30 for the day, or hone your bargaining skills at the boat wharf beside the Trang Tien Bridge.

The Royal Mausoleums

Unlike previous Vietnamese dynasties, which buried their kings in ancestral villages, the Nguyen built themselves magnificent Royal Mausoleums in the valley of the Perfume River among low, forested hills to the south of Hue. For historical reasons only seven mausoleums were built, but each one is a unique expression of the monarch’s personality, usually planned in detail during his lifetime to serve as his palace in death. More than anywhere else in Hue, it’s here that the Nguyen emperors excelled in achieving a harmony between the works of man and his natural surroundings. Along with the Imperial City, these constitute Hue’s most rewarding sights.

The mausoleums are intoxicating places, occasionally grandiose but more often achieving an elegant simplicity, where it’s easy to lose yourself wandering in the quiet gardens. However, given the entry fee for each – except on public holidays, when entry is free – you’ll want to pick the ones you visit carefully. Of the seven, the contrasting mausoleums of Tu Duc, Khai Dinh and Minh Mang are the most attractive and best preserved, as well as being easily accessible. These are also the three covered by the boat trips, so they can get crowded (especially at weekends); don’t let this put you off – but if you do want something more off the beaten track then those of Gia Long, Dong Khanh and Thieu Tri are worth calling in on. Finally, Duc Duc’s temple and mausoleum are very modest but they are the closest to Hue and still tended by members of the royal family.

Mausoleum design

It often took years to find a site with the right aesthetic requirements that would also satisfy the court cosmologists charged with interpreting the underlying supernatural forces. Artificial lakes, waterfalls and hills were added to improve the geomantic qualities of the location, at the same time creating picturesque, almost romantic, garden settings for the mausoleums, of which the finest examples are those of Tu Duc and Minh Mang.

Though details vary, all the mausoleums consist of three elements: a temple dedicated to the worship of the deceased emperor and his queen; a large, stone stele recording his biographical details and a history of his reign, usually written by his successor; and the royal tomb itself at the highest spot, enclosed within a wall and a heavy, securely fastened door. Traditionally the burial place was kept secret as a measure against grave-robbers and enemies of the state, and in extreme cases all those who had been involved in the burial were killed immediately afterwards.

The Hon Chen Temple Festivals

Festivals at Hon Chen were banned between Independence and 1986 but have now resumed, taking place twice yearly in the middle of the third and seventh lunar month. The celebrations, harking back to ancient rituals, include trance-dances performed by mediums, usually females dressed in brightly coloured costumes, who are transported by a pulsating musical accompaniment. These events have proven popular with the few foreign tourists lucky enough to be here at the right time, and to hear that they’re actually happening.

During the American War, Quang Tri and Quang Binh, the two provinces either side of the DMZ, were the most heavily bombed and saw the highest casualties – civilian and military, American and Vietnamese. Names made infamous in 1960s’ and 1970s’ America have been perpetuated in countless films and memoirs: Con Thien, the Rockpile, Hamburger Hill and Khe Sanh. For some people the DMZ will be what draws them to Vietnam, the end of a long and difficult pilgrimage; for others it will be a bleak, sometimes beautiful, place where there’s nothing particular to see but where it’s hard not to respond to the sense of enormous desolation.

North of the DMZ is one of the region’s main attractions – the tunnels of Vinh Moc, where villages created deep underground during the American War have been preserved. The area’s other points of interest lie south of the Ben Hai River, and while it’s not possible to cover everything in a day, the most interesting of the places described here are included on organized tours from Hué. Alternatively, it’s possible to use Dong Ha as a base or cover a more limited selection of sights on the drive north. If you have limited time then the Vinh Moc tunnels should be high on your list, along with a drive up Highway 9 to Khe Sanh, both for the scenery en route and the sobering battleground itself. Note that, although you can now visit the DMZ without a local guide, this is not recommended as most sites are unmarked and, more importantly, the guides – arranged in Dong Ha – know which paths are safe; local farmers are still occasionally killed or injured by unexploded ordnance in this area.

The history of the DMZ

Under the terms of the 1954 Geneva Accords, Vietnam was split in two along the Seventeenth Parallel, pending elections intended to reunite the country. The demarcation line ran along the Ben Hai River and was sealed by a strip of no-man’s-land 5km wide on each side known as the Demilitarized Zone, or DMZ. All Communist troops and supporters were supposed to regroup north in the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, leaving the southern Republic of Vietnam to non-Communists and various shades of opposition. When the elections failed to take place, the river became the de facto border until 1975.

In reality both sides of the DMZ were anything but demilitarized after 1965, and anyway the border was easily circumvented – by the Ho Chi Minh Trail to the west and sea routes to the east – enabling the North Vietnamese to bypass a string of American fire bases overlooking the river. One of the more fantastical efforts to prevent Communist infiltration southwards was US Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara’s proposal for an electronic fence from the Vietnamese coast to the Mekong River, made up of seismic and acoustic sensors that would detect troop movements and pinpoint targets for bombing raids. Though trials in 1967 met with some initial success, the "McNamara Line" was soon abandoned: sensors were confused by animals, especially elephants, and could be triggered deliberately by the tape-recorded sound of vehicle engines or troops on the march.

Nor could massive, conventional bombing by artillery and aircraft contain the North Vietnamese, who finally stormed the DMZ in 1972 and pushed the border 20km further south. Exceptionally bitter fighting in the territory south of the Ben Hai River (I Corps Military Region) claimed more American lives in the five years leading up to 1972 than any other battle zone in Vietnam. Figures for North Vietnamese losses during that period are not known, but it’s estimated that up to thirty percent of ordnance dropped in the DMZ failed to detonate on impact and that these have, since 1975, been responsible for up to ten thousand deaths and injuries. So much fire power was unleashed over this area, including napalm and herbicides, that for years nothing would grow in the impacted, chemical-laden soil, but the region’s low, rolling hills are now almost entirely reforested with a green sea of pine, eucalyptus, coffee and acacia.

The Vinh Moc tunnels

An amazing complex of tunnels where over a thousand people sheltered, sometimes for weeks on end, during the worst American bombardments. A section of the Vinh Moc tunnels has been restored and opened to visitors as a powerful tribute to the villagers’ courage and tenacity, with a small museum at the entrance providing background information.

The battle of Khe Sanh

The battle of Khe Sanh was important not because of its immediate outcome, but because it attracted worldwide media attention and, along with the simultaneous Tet Offensive, demonstrated the futility of America’s efforts to contain their enemy. In 1962 an American Special Forces team arrived in Khe Sanh Town to train local Bru minority people in counter-insurgency, and then four years later the first batch of Marines was sent in to establish a forward base near Laos, to secure Highway 9 and to harass troops on the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Skirmishes around Khe Sanh increased as intelligence reports indicated a massive build-up of North Vietnamese Army (NVA) troops in late 1967, possibly as many as forty thousand, facing six thousand Marines together with a few hundred South Vietnamese and Bru. Both the Western media and American generals were soon presenting the confrontation as a crucial test of America’s credibility in South Vietnam and drawing parallels with Dien Bien Phu. As US President Johnson famously remarked, he didn’t want "any damn Dinbinfoo".

The NVA attack came in the early hours of January 21, 1968; rockets raining in on the base added to the terror and confusion by striking an ammunition dump, gasoline tanks and stores of tear gas. There followed a seemingly endless, nerve-grinding NVA artillery barrage, when hundreds of shells fell on the base each day, interspersed with costly US infantry assaults into the surrounding hills. In an operation code-named "Niagara" General Westmoreland called in the air battalions to silence the enemy guns and break the siege by unleashing the most intense bombing raids of the war: in nine weeks nearly a hundred thousand tonnes of bombs pounded the area round the clock, averaging one airstrike every five minutes, backed up by napalm and defoliants. Unbelievably the NVA were so well dug in and camouflaged that they not only withstood the onslaught but continued to return fire, despite horrendous casualties, estimated at ten thousand. On the US side around five hundred troops died at Khe Sanh (although official figures record only 248 American deaths, of which 43 occurred in a single helicopter accident), before a relief column broke through in early April, seventy-odd days after the siege had begun. NVA forces gradually pulled back and by the middle of March had all but gone, having successfully diverted American resources away from southern cities prior to the Tet Offensive. Three months later the Americans also quietly withdrew, leaving a plateau that resembled a lunar landscape, contaminated for years to come with chemicals and explosives; even the trees left standing were worthless because so much shrapnel was lodged in the timber.

The history of the tunnels

When American bombing raids north of the DMZ intensified in 1966 the inhabitants of Vinh Linh District began digging down into the red laterite soils, excavating more than fifty tunnels over the next two years. Although they were also used by North Vietnamese soldiers, the tunnels were primarily built to shelter a largely civilian population who worked the supply route from the Con Co Islands lying 28km offshore. Five tunnels belonged to Vinh Moc, a village located right on the coast where for two years 250 people dug more than 2km of tunnel, which housed all six hundred villagers over varying periods from early 1967 until 1969, when half decamped north to the relative safety of Nghe An Province. The tunnels were constructed on three levels at 10, 15 and 20–23m deep (though nowadays you can’t visit the lowest level) with good ventilation, freshwater wells and, eventually, a generator and lights. The underground village was also equipped with a school, clinics and a maternity room where seventeen children were born. Each family was allocated a tiny cavern, the four-person space being barely larger than a single bed. They were only able to emerge at night and lack of fresh air and sunlight was a major problem, especially for young children who would sit in the tunnel mouths whenever possible. In 1972, the villagers of Vinh Moc were finally able to abandon their underground existence and rebuild their homes, rejoined by relatives from Nghe An a year later.

Hien Luong Bridge

Just beyond Doc Mieu, Highway 1 drops down into the DMZ, running between paddy fields to the Ben Hai River, which lies virtually on the Seventeenth Parallel. You will see two bridges, the newly built one, which is open to traffic, and the unused Hien Luong Bridge that runs parallel to it. Until it was destroyed in 1967, the original Hien Luong Bridge was painted half red and half yellow as a vivid reminder that this was a physical and ideological boundary separating the two Vietnams. The reconstructed iron-girder bridge officially re-opened in 1975 as a symbol of reunification, and for many years represented an important psychological barrier between north and south.

Con Thien Firebase

Roughly 12km out of Cam Lo, you pass the site of Con Thien Firebase. Again, there’s precious little left to see, beyond a view north to what were once NVA positions, chillingly close on the opposite bank of the Ben Hai River. The largest American installation along the DMZ, Con Thien Firebase was first established by the Special Forces (Green Berets) and then handed over to the Marines in 1966, whose big guns could reach from here far into North Vietnam. In the lead-up to the 1968 Tet Offensive, as part of the NVA’s diversionary attacks, the base became the target of prolonged shelling, followed by an infantry assault during which it was briefly surrounded. The Americans replied with everything in their arsenal, including long-range strafing from gunships in the South China Sea and carpet-bombing by B-52s. The North Vietnamese were forced to withdraw temporarily, but then completely overran the base in the summer of 1972.

Doc Mieu Firebase

The American front line comprised a string of firebases set up on a long, low ridge of hills looking north across the DMZ and the featureless plain of the Ben Hai River. Although there’s nothing much to see now, you pass the site of one of these, Doc Mieu Firebase to the east of Highway 1 about 14km north of Dong Ha. Before the NVA overran Doc Mieu in 1972, the base played a pivotal role in the South’s defence. From here American guns shelled seaborne infiltration routes and, for a while, this was the command post for the "McNamara Line", calling in airstrikes from Da Nang to pound targets – both real and faked – along the Ho Chi Minh Trail.

Truong Son War Martyr Cemetery

Truong Son War Martyr Cemetery is dedicated to the estimated twenty-five thousand men and women who died on the Truong Son Trail, better known in the West as the Ho Chi Minh Trail. A total of 10,036 graves lie in the fourteen-hectare cemetery among whispering glades of evergreen trees. Arranged in five geographical regions, the graves are subdivided according to native province, and centred round memorial houses listing every name and grave number in the sector. Each headstone announces liet si ("martyr"), together with as many details as are known: name, date and place of birth, date of enrolment, rank and the date they died.

As a former US Marine Command Post and then ARVN base, Dong Ha was also obliterated in 1972, but unlike Quang Tri it has bounced back, thanks largely to its administrative status and location at the eastern end of Highway 9, which leads through Laos to Savannakhet on the Mekong River. The future looks rosy as well: a new deep-water port has been built to serve landlocked Laos, a number of special economic zones are under construction along the border, and Highway 9 has been upgraded as part of the massive Trans-Asian Highway project.

As the closest town to the DMZ, Dong Ha attracts a lot of tourist traffic, though few people choose to stay here, preferring the comfort and facilities of Hue. It is essentially a two-street town: Highway 1, known here as Le Duan, forms the main artery as it passes through on its route north, while Highway 9 takes off inland at a central T-junction.

Top image © noina/Shutterstock

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• Top things to do in Central Vietnam

When planning a trip to Vietnam for the first time, people often ask: “North or South?” But some of the country’s most popular and up-and-coming destinations are tucked somewhere in between, so the perfect answer to be given here is “in Central Vietnam”. 

In this middle region, you’ll find distinctive cuisine, the most impressive caves in the world, glorious coastal cities, cool forests, and historical highlights that tell the story of Vietnam’s varied past. 

Read on for ideas of what to do when you head to Central Vietnam. 

REVEL IN CULTURAL RICHES

Central Vietnam is home to two of Vietnam’s most culturally important cities – Hoi An and Hue. Hoi An, the most visited of the two, the Asia’s Leading cultural city destination, was a booming trading port of Southeast Asia in the 16th century, bringing people from different cultures together. There are many significant sites in this charming ‘yellow town’, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge. To learn more about the place’s history and its most flourishing period, visit the Hoi An Museum or watch the scintillating Hoi An Memories Show. 

Source: Facebook - Hoi An Memories Show

To truly know the essence of Vietnam, some say you simply have to go to Hue. As the former capital, this is where 13 kings of the Nguyen dynasty ruled from over a period of 143 years. Those who appreciate history, architecture, and spiritual travel will have plenty to see and do here. In between sightseeing, there are also great beaches to relax at and many markets to shop at.

EXPLORE VAST CAVES

Fascinated by mysterious caves? Vietnam has many, making it an ideal for cavers. The UNESCO World Heritage site Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, in Quang Binh Province, boasts the largest cave on earth − Hang Son Doong (Mountain River Cave). With 150 metres by width, 200 metres by height, and up to over 9 kilometres by length, it’s so vast, it has its own climate, forest and river. Going there is a whole adventure that includes river crossings, climbing, and even spending the night in the cave. 

Other caves to consider in the park include Paradise Cave (Thien Duong Cave), which is 31.4km long. Typical tours explore the first one kilometre; but adventure tours let you delve deeper. Then there are the Tu Lan Cave system, which were a setting for the film Kong: Skull Island (2017). This cave network can be explored on a family friendly one-day tour; or over six days for more experienced cavers. 

BASK AT THE BEAUTIFUL BEACHES  

The best-known beach destination in Central Vietnam is undoubtedly Danang. With its hotels and wide stretches of clean beach, the city is a great getaway for short or long stays. Amble along the boulevard of My Khe Beach, lined with palm trees and seafood restaurants, where people enjoy themselves day and night. In the background, a serene Buddha statue watches the scene from the lush green Son Tra Peninsula hills. 

Quy Nhon is a lesser-known beach city worth visiting. Walk the promenade in the city to find yourself a spot to sit or swim, or head a little out of town to see the rock formations at Queen’s Beach (Bai Hoang Hau), the crystal-clear waters of Ky Co Beach, or to have lunch at Bai Xep. As CNN said back in 2019, “[Quy Nhon] has everything a discerning traveller could want – minus the huge crowds and inflated prices.” 

RIDE THE SCENIC ROUTES

Keen on a road trip to clear the head while admiring stunning scenery? Ride along the Hai Van Pass, whether by yourself or as a passenger. This pass (which means ‘ocean cloud pass’) is on the route that links Hoi An, Danang and Hue, and it’s without a doubt one of the country’s most famous coastal roads. En route, stop to admire the beautiful views from the lookout post. Then have a bite to eat at Lang Co Town. 

For ‘slow travellers’ or those wary of motorcycling, there’s a train ride that let’s you sit back and enjoy the views from the comfort of your carriage. 

HEAD TO THE CENTRAL HIGHLANDS

For an experience quite unlike many other parts of the country, visit the Central Highlands. With fertile soil, cooler climes, ethnic minority groups, serene scenery and fascinating history, the Highlands offer something special. 

Dalat, in particular, is a quirky destination that will leave an indelible impression. Known as ‘city of love’, the charming, romantic destination was where foreigners once retreated to during summers in the French colonial era. It’s always cooler than Vietnam’s main cities, which is why many fruits and flowers are grown here. 

There are loads of things for visitors to do in Dalat. You could visit the former palace of Bao Dai, the last emperor of Vietnam; go waterfall chasing; take photos at the Dalat Flower Gardens; or paddle around the Lake of Sighs (Ho Than Tho). The city is also full of interesting and quirky architecture, such as the Crazy House, the French Quarter, the train station, and the mosaic-clad Linh Phuoc Pagoda. 

SAIL TO THE ISLANDS

Vietnam’s seas are dotted with stunning islands. So if you’re visiting Central Vietnam, why not book a trip out to one (or several) of them? 

From Nha Trang, you could try the resort island of Hon Tre, which is great for families. For stunning blue seas (and social media shots), take a speedboat to Diep Son Island. For snorkelling, there are beautiful marine sightings among the coral surrounding the Hon Mun islet. Alternatively, step back in time at the Hoang Hoa Village on Hon Tam island. 

Visiting Hoi An? Take a day out to the Cham Islands (Cù Lao Chàm), which are full of historical relics and are recognised by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve. Of course, crystal clear waters and stunning flora and fauna are the main drawcards. 

However, perhaps the most interesting island in Central Vietnam is Ly Son . Built by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, the island features fascinating topography and beautiful beaches. 

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5-Day Central Vietnam Itinerary — Off The Beaten Path In Ba Na Hills, Da Nang, Hue, and Hoi An

Planning your Vietnam itinerary? Find out how you can score 1-for-1 deals and up to 50% off transport, activities, and other travel essentials from now till 14 Oct 2022 — more at the end! Having already been to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, I thought I’d already tried all the straw hats and egg coffees on offer. Little did I know of Central Vietnam’s extraordinary attractions — a bizarre bridge that shoots actual fire, a three-storey arcade hidden in a cave, and a lantern festival on the river straight out of a Disney flick!

By stepping away from the mainstream, you’ll learn some new things — how buffalo hair feels like, how prone to motion sickness you really are, and what duck foetus feathers taste like (spoiler: crunchy).

Get crazy on this 5-day Central Vietnam itinerary where you’ll explore off-beat Da Nang, historical Hue, and colourful Hoi An, for the quirkiest, coolest Vietnam trip ever!

Psst* Klook is celebrating its 8th birthday with deals for a different destination each day from 30 September to 14 October — Vietnam is on day 7 (6 Oct)! Expect 1-for-1s and up to 50% off deals — more about this later!

Pre-trip Essentials

Getting around in Vietnam:  We got an airport pickup (~S$11.65 for three pax) which brought us to our accommodation in Da Nang. On days two and three (Da Nang and Hue), we recommend a 12-hour private charter   (~S$112.50) to cover the city’s many attractions. For everything else, the Grab app (Southeast Asia’s Uber) comes super handy.

Staying connected: We collected our pre-booked 6GB 5G SIM Card (30 days)  (~S$10.45) directly upon arrival at Da Nang International Airport.

Flights to Central Vietnam:  It’s easiest to fly in and out of Da Nang International Airport, with direct flights from Singapore from just ~S$72.

Check Flights to Da Nang

Check flights from Singapore to Da Nang here .

Central Vietnam Itinerary Route

We enjoyed two days in Da Nang before travelling north to spend two days in Hue. We then travelled down to Hoi An for one day. From Hoi An, it’s a 45-minute drive back to Da Nang International Airport.

Day 1: Lose Yourself in Ba Na Hills, Da Nang’s Odd Utopia

Start your trip at Da Nang, a laid-back coastal city known for its strong food scene, backpacker culture, and one of Asia’s best beaches. New attractions like Ba Na Hills tips Da Nang as the next big holiday destination, so better visit before the crowds do!

Have a Blast at Ba Na Hills

If “extra” is your middle name, you’ll love  Ba Na Hills , undoubtedly Da Nang’s craziest attraction. Sitting atop the Truong Son Mountains, this humongous theme park is full of surreal surprises that’ll keep you entertained all day.

Take Ba Na Hills’ record-breaking cablecars over waterfalls and lush forest. You’ll soon arrive at the Golden Bridge , modelled like two giant hands holding a delicate golden thread. With rolling clouds in the background, it’s definitely among the most awesome sights I’ve ever seen.

Take another cablecar to Ba Na Hills’ French Village , complete with its own cathedral, village square, and quaint cafes — very romantic!

Grab lunch at Arapang Hall , for a huge international buffet spread (225,000₫) that left us spoilt for choice.

*Pro-tip: Come before 12PM to avoid the tour groups and get first dibs on food!

Let your lunch settle before taking a ride on the Alpine Coaster , a luge ride that gives you complete control over the brakes and speed! If you intend to zoom down at the top speed of 40km/hr, let the ride attendant know and he’ll be sure to clear enough distance between you and the previous rider.

Next to the Alpine Coaster is another unusual sight — a three-storey arcade tucked inside a cave! The largest indoor arcade in Vietnam, Fantasy Park  boasts free VR rides, a free drop-tower, free rock-climbing, free bumper cars, free arcade games… okay, basically it’s all free!

Our favourites were the classic SEGA racing machines, and the genuinely scary 360° cinema horror show Fear Train (be warned: jump-scares aplenty!). For the old-school romantics, there are also traditional carnival games like ring toss and beanbag throws, at (100,000₫) for three tries.

Entrance fee:   ~S$49.80 (incl. round trip cablecar) Opening hours: 8AM – 5:30PM, closes 7:30PM on Sat How to get there:  From Sun World Ba Na Hills Gateway, take the Toc Tien–L’Indochine cablecar line, which brings you to the Golden Bridge. Alternatively, a  Ba Na Hills package tour  covers everything from transport and admission to the buffet lunch.

Read also:  Ba Na Hills Guide — Vietnam’s Breathtaking Hidden Playground

Dinner at Quan Pho Hong

End the day with affordable and authentic pho at Quan Pho Hong . We recommend the classic beef pho (55,000₫) and tasty fried prawn and meat spring rolls (160,000₫ for 10 rolls).

Cost: From 55,000₫ (~S$3.30) a bowl Opening hours: 7AM – 9PM Address: 10 Ly Tu Trong, Thach Thang, Hai Chau, Da Nang 550000

Day 2: Experience Water and Fire in Da Nang

Eat like a local at c ồ n market.

Despite what its name suggests, you’re not gonna get conned at  Cồn Market . It’s the perfect place to start your day like a local, and soak in authentic Vietnam vibes!

Cồn Market’s food street hosts tiny stalls selling unidentifiable meats — no thanks to the lack of translated signs — a sight that’ll make you feel nothing like a regular tourist. We managed to snag grilled pork and veggies in paper-thin rice rolls topped with a dollop of peanut dipping sauce for 100,000₫ — completing our local lunch!

Wander down the neighbouring lanes and spot interesting sights like garlic cloves decorated to look like Christmas trees, bare-bones manicure stations and trendy banana-print tees that go for ~100,000₫ each.

Cost: ~100,000₫ (~S$5.90) for a meal for two pax Opening hours:  7AM – 7PM Address:  290 Hung Vuong, Vinh Trung, Hai Chau, Da Nang 550000

Catch Waves at My Khe Beach — the US Marine’s Favourite Surf Spot

Spend the afternoon at My Khe Beach , one of the most beautiful and historically significant beaches in Vietnam. During the Vietnam War, this charming paradise was a beloved recreation spot for the US Marines — and it’s easy to see why.

My Khe Beach is a lovely stretch of white sand with sparkling turquoise waves perfect for casual surfers (surfboard rentals at  100,000₫/hour) . With a backdrop of misty mountains, beach bars, cheap parasailing ( 500,000₫) , and very few tourists , My Khe Beach has it all. Entrance fee: Free Opening hours:  7AM – 9PM, 5AM – 6:30PM in Winter (Nov – Apr) How to get there: Take an 11-min Grab ride/taxi from Cồn Market (public transport will be too complicated for non-Vietnamese speakers)

Dinner at Burger Bros 

Da Nang’s history as a base for US Marines resulted in some of Vietnam’s yummiest Western food. We don’t normally recommend non-local food, but for the buttery, juicy goodness at  Burger Bros , we’ll make an exception.

We ravaged the NN Burger (110,000 ₫ ), which came stuffed with bacon and avocado, and the double-pattied Mykhe Burger (140,000 ₫ ). Judging by the hundreds of rave reviews online, the other options are excellent too.

Make your meal extra satisfying by adding fries/coleslaw and a drink (we loved the homemade lemonade) ranging from 30,000 ₫ to 50,000₫ , based on your drink of choice.

Cost: From 70,000₫ (~S$4.20) per burger Opening hours:  11AM – 2PM, 5PM – 9PM (or until sold out) Address:  30 An Thuong 4, Bac My An, Ngu Hanh Son, Da Nang 550000

*Pro-tip: Visit at least an hour before closing time, as they sell out pretty fast!

See a Fire-Breathing Dragon

Photo credit: CNN

The longest bridge in Vietnam is also its most badass: A 666m-long golden dragon!

Opened in 2013 for the 38th anniversary of Da Nang’s liberation from the war, the bridge is a symbol of prosperity and power. Visit after sunset to see the bridge light up in a dazzling display of changing colours. On weekends, the dragon even spits actual fire!

Cost: Free Show times: 9PM on weekends How to get there: Head to the waterfront along the Han River, where you’ll find eateries offering great views of the Dragon Bridge

Day 3: Immerse Yourself in Hue’s Historical Landmarks

Getting From Da Nang to Hue: We took a 12-hour private charter for the ~2-hour drive from Da Nang to Hue, followed by a day of sightseeing.

Hue is filled with royal monuments and gorgeous architecture from its history as Vietnam’s former capital from the 17th to the 19th century, during the Nguyen Dynasty. This grand city is also your gateway to the marvellous caves at Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Admire the Royal Tomb of Khai Dinh

Of the six royal tombs around Hue, King Khai Dinh’s is the most impressive. A real testament to the controversial Nguyễn Dynasty emperor, this majestic mausoleum took 11 years to build with three gorgeous levels to explore.

Entrance fee: 150,000₫ (~S$8.90) Opening hours: 7.30AM – 5PM How to get there:  A 30-minute drive (Grab/cab) from Hue. Do note that if you’re not on private transfer/motorbike, you’ll need to ask your cab to wait for you as cabs aren’t readily available from the tomb.

Feast on Hue Specialties at Quán Cơm Hến 03

At the cosy  Quán Cơm Hến 03 , try Hue’s specialty, com hen  (clam rice), which tastes satisfyingly buttery, salty, and spicy all at once. Pair the iconic dish with another Hue fave, nem lui  — grilled skewers of finely-ground beef and pork, wound around stalks of lemongrass. The friendly owner will even teach you how to eat nem lui  like a local!

Cost:  ~185,000₫ (~S$10.90) for 3pax Opening hours: 7AM – 10PM Address: 3 Han Mac Tu, Vy Da, Thanh pho Hue, Thua Thien Hue

Wander around Hue’s Imperial City

Dive into ancient history at Hue’s Imperial City , the site of Vietnam’s former capital. There’s an actual moat, and ten grand gates guarding the lavish remains of a palace, tombs, and gardens. Walking through the royal ruins, it’s easy to imagine the grandeur and glory back in the days of ancient Vietnam’s Nguyễn Dynasty.

Entrance fee:  ~200,000₫ (~S$11.90) Opening hours: 6:30AM – 5:30PM in summer, 7AM – 5PM in winter How to get there: Take private charter or bike (parking at the east exit costs 25,000₫, ~S$1.50) to this central location within Hue.

Catch the Sunset at Thien Mu Pagoda

The seven-storied Thien Mu Pagoda (The Pagoda of the Celestial Lady) is the unofficial symbol of Hue city. Sitting just outside the city centre, the pagoda is in a perfect position overlooking the Perfume River.

In the vicinity, you’ll also spot the car that once belonged to Thich Quang Duc, the Buddhist monk who set himself on fire in protest against President Diem’s discriminatory policies.

Entrance fee:  Free Opening hours: 8AM – 6PM Address:  Huong Hoa, Thanh pho Hue, Huong Hoa Thanh pho Hue Thua Thien Hue 532761

Beef Noodles at Bun Bo Hue My Tam

Enjoy some bun bo (Vietnamese rice noodle dish with sliced beef or pork knuckles) for dinner in the city where it originated! Like a punchier-tasting version of the classic pho,  Bun Bo Hue My Tam  generously heaps beef tendon, pork ribs and juicy pork balls on top of soft vermicelli. Hot tip to eat like the locals do: dip the free baguette slices into the yummy soup!

Cost: 40,000₫ (~S$2.40) Opening hours:  3:15PM – 2AM Address: 3 Tran Cao Van, Vinh Ninh, Thanh pho Hue, Thua Thien Hue

Day 4: Day Trip to Phong Nha’s Crazy Caves  

Spot magical creatures among phong nha’s magnificent formations.

Spend the day adventuring at  Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The caves can be quite a pain to get to, as they’re a 4-hour drive each way from Hue. It’s well worth it though — there’s something  surreal about standing amongst caves that are over 400 million years old. 

To make the journey a little easier, book an all-inclusive  Phong Nha Cave tour  (~S$57 per pax), which comes with roundtrip transfer, entrance fees, and lunch along the way.

There are different caves to explore in the area, including the adventure-filled Tra Ang Cave and tragic 8 Ladies Cave. We loved the Paradise Cave — aptly named for its breathtaking stalagmites and magically cool temperature of 17° – 19°, no matter the season!

Don’t forget to put your imagination to the test by spotting outlines of gnomes and other fantastic creatures amongst the karst limestone formations.

Entrance fee:  250,000₫ (~S$14.90) Opening hours: 7AM – 4PM How to get there:  A 4-hour drive each way, it’s easiest and most cost-efficient to get to Phong Nha-Ke Bàng National Park via private charter.

*Pro-tip:  Wear comfortable walking shoes as the hike up to the cave entrance gets pretty strenuous.

Read also:  2-Week Vietnam Itinerary — Heart-Pumping Experiences through Northern and Central Vietnam from Hanoi to Da Nang

Dinner at Nina’s Cafe

Photo credit: Buffalo Trip

Enjoy authentic local dishes at this popular family-run restaurant. Have a spread of Nina Cafe’s  signature items, including squid with lemongrass and chili (85,000₫), steamed rice cakes (40,000₫), and banana flower salad (70,000₫).

Cost: From 40,000₫ (~S$2.40) Opening hours: 10AM – 9:30PM Address: 34 Nguyen Tri Phuong, Phú Hoi, Thành pho Hue, Thua Thien Hue 530000

Day 5: Spin Through Hoi An’s Coconut Forest 

Round off the trip with some colour and culture at Hoi An, a former trading port that blends together architecture styles from the Chinese, French, Japanese, and Vietnamese. This lovely town features quaint cafes, lantern-lit streets, and a gorgeous river that comes alive at night.

Go on a Family-run Coconut Tour 

This super-cute tour through the Coconut Forest is non-stop excitement, beginning with an actual buffalo ride in the countryside!

We then cycled through scenic paddy fields, lush vegetation, and beside shimmering streams. Along the way, our guide pointed out interesting sights and even crafted us our very own grass hats and accessories!

Once we reached the coconut forest, the real highlight of the tour began. Hopping onto a round basket boat — a creative concoction of oil and bamboo — we paddled out on the river and right into the middle of a party.

You’ll be brought to the river’s designated party spot with boomboxes blasting energetic music, while a friendly paddler spins the boat round and round and round. One of us actually puked — just like a Friday night at Zouk!

On a serious note, you might want to skip this if you have bad motion sickness (or prep some pills beforehand).

Other highlights include a chance to try net fishing, and learn more about this interesting aspect of local life. For example, the coconut forest used to be an area of frequent bombing during the Vietnam War. Our guide’s father — our basket boat paddler — even fought in the war, and showed us pictures to prove it.

After all that spinning and adventure, we enjoyed a local spread of fried spring rolls,  banh xeo (Vietnamese egg pancakes), and of course, fresh coconut!

I can’t recommend this tour enough — the English-speaking husband-and-wife team were amazing guides who went above and beyond to give us a fun time and even helped us take great photos.

Cost: ~S$34/pax for a 3hr tour Tour timings: 9AM, 2PM Meeting point: Hotel pick up within central Hoi An available

Explore Hoi An’s Colourful Streets

Whether on foot or by bike, spend an afternoon exploring Hoi An’s quaint streets and cosy eateries.

We visited the White Rose Restaurant , founded by a Fujian-Vietnamese couple and named after their iconic white rose dumplings, with a secret recipe they fiercely guard. What’s not-so-secret though is getting to see ladies skilfully filling and shaping the dumplings into flowers. It’s also no coincidence that all the staff look alike — only family members are allowed to make the food!

Apart from the white rose dumplings (70,000₫ for ~10 pieces), try the one other menu offering, fried wanton (100,000₫ for ~7 pieces), which are  topped with tomato roulade, shrimp, black mushroom, and other veggies. Resembling a tortilla, the soft and crunchy snack is also known as “Hoi An Pizza”.

White Rose Restaurant Cost:  From 70,000₫ (~S$4.20) Opening hours:  7:30AM – 8:30PM Address: 533 D. Hai Bà Trung, Phuong Cam Pho, Hoi An, Quang Nam

Another cool spot is Phai Pho Cafe (meaning “Faded City”), a vintage-looking cafe in Old Town. Get a cup of their strong, sweetened coffee (15,000₫) and drink it the Vietnamese way — one sip of coffee followed by one sip of their complimentary tea, and repeat. The delicious beans from Da Lat give the coffee a distinct, chocolatey taste. Phai Pho Cafe Cost:  15,000₫ (~S$0.90) Opening hours:  7AM – 10PM Address: 59 Phan Chu Trinh, Phuong Minh An, Hoi An, Quang Nam

*Pro-tip: You’re allowed to bring in your own food to enjoy with the coffee.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, go on a guided bike tour , where you’ll brave busy streets to sample Hoi An’s best-kept culinary secrets. We went through narrow alleyways and even found ourselves on a tranquil farm and in locals’ homes for home-cooked Vietnamese food.

The entire way, our knowledgeable guide told us everything we needed to know about the food, and even accompanied us to try street-side balut (fertilised duck egg)!

Bike and Bite Tour Cost: ~S$55/pax for a 5hr tour Tour timings: 3:30PM Meeting point:  567 Hai Ba Trung St, Son Phong, Hoian, Quang Nam

Light Up the River at Hoi An’s Lantern Festival 

Hoi An’s romantic streets become even lovelier at night, as the riverside lights up with the rainbow glow of paper lanterns and decorated boats.

You can even make a wish on your own little lantern, and set it afloat along the river (20,000₫ each)!

While the tradition has become so popular that it now happens every night, it’s still most beautiful on the eve of the full moon each month, when the lights of the town are shut off at 8PM to create a truly magical scene.

Activity timing: From sunset to around 9PM How to get there:  Walk to the riverside in the centre of Hoi An’s Old Town

*Pro-tip: Arrive just before sunset (around 6PM) to catch the gorgeous pink sky and watch the river slowly light up.

Dinner at Madam Khanh the Bahn Mi Queen

Without a doubt, the owner Madam Khanh deserves her title as the Bahn Mi Queen. These bahn mi (short baguette with savoury ingredients) from Madam Khanh the Bahn Mi Queen were the best Vietnamese sandwiches I’ve ever had. 

My favourite was the Mixed Bahn Mi (20,000₫), which came stuffed with vegetables, pork, ham, eggs, pate, and egg sauce on a crisp yet chewy baguette.

Cost: From 20,000₫ (~S$1.20) Opening hours: 6AM – 7PM, opens 12PM on Tue Address: 115 Tran Cao Van, Phuong Minh An, tp. Hoi An, Quang Nam

Getting from Hue to Hoi An: It’s a 2hr 40min drive to Hoi An. As Hoi An is best explored on foot or via unique local tours, we took an inter-city transfer (~S$72.59 for three pax). Leave Hue by 6AM if you intend to take the Coconut Forest Tour (9AM – 12PM) and the Bike and Bite Tour (3:30PM – 8PM) on the same day. Otherwise, leave by 2PM to catch the afternoon Coconut Forest Tour (2PM – 5PM).

Getting from Hoi An to Da Nang (Airport): Take a 45-min airport transfer  (~S$15.69 for three pax) to Da Nang International Airport.

Getting Around Central Vietnam

We loved the flexibility of customising our day and itinerary, free to continue exploring or move on from each attraction throughout Central Vietnam as we pleased.

Our 12-hour private charter  (~S$112.50) made this possible directly from touchdown. Having our own car was a godsend especially when exploring quirkier attractions like the local market and Khai Dinh’s tomb, which aren’t central areas frequented by most tourists (and harder to get to via public transport!).

That said, we also opted for the following full-length tours as they included great add-ons like lunch or admission fees, with knowledgeable guides who gave us insight on Vietnamese history and hidden gems:

– Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge Custom Day Tour incl. Buffet Lunch (~S$65) – Phong Nha Cave Exploration Tour (~S$57) – Hoi An Coconut Forest Tour (~S$34) – Hoi An Bite and Bite Tour (~S$55)

Personally, I’m already itching to return to these underrated cities, especially Da Nang’s My Khe Beach. So try something new with our itinerary and head to Central Vietnam for a colourful getaway like no other!

Read also:   7 Adventurous Day Trips from Hanoi – Halong Bay, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Trang Vu and more

Enough to inspire you for your next trip? Check flight prices from Singapore to Da Nang here !

1-For-1 Deals and Up to 50% off Vietnam Travel Essentials

Celebrating their 8th birthday, from 30 September – 7 October 2022, Klook will be  releasing daily deals  for a different destination each day. If you’re planning your Vietnam itinerary, set an alarm for 6 Oct!

How this works: at 8PM each day, there will be a code released for 18% off for that featured destination — that means 18% off your train passes, activities, accommodations, and other travel essentials!

And if you’re planning to add Sun World Asia Park (Da Nang) to your Central Vietnam Itinerary, enjoy an extra 100,000₫ voucher as part of the 8PM flash deal for Vietnam!

More savings for your Central Vietnam itinerary

On top of daily destination-specific deals, log into the app daily between 30 Sep – 14 Oct to  spin the Joy Roulette .

Collect the three coins to spell J-O-Y and you’ll stand a chance to win one of 88 attractive prizes! Prizes include a Resorts World Cruises 5-Night Sail Package, Royal Albatross Tickets, and Klook e-Gift Cards to book any experience you’ve been dying to try.

*Pro-tip:  Existing DBS/POSB Cardmembers can score an $80 off sitewide code so look out for that when you’re checking out!

Know any other quirky activities in Vietnam that we should include? Let us know in the comments!

This post was brought to you by  Klook .

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Traveling and Exploring in Northern Vietnam

CENTRAL VIETNAM → Travel Guide + Places ☀️

ℹ️ Useful Information 🤔 To Go / Not to Go? 🍜 Food / Cuisine ✈️ How to get there ☀️ Weather Forecast 🏡 Where to stay 🔍 Activities + Places ❓ FAQ + Travel Tips 🎫 Book a Tour Online 🎫 Book Tickets / Car

Central Vietnam: Enchanting Landscapes and Coastal Beauty:

Nestled in the heart of Vietnam, Central Vietnam is a region of captivating geographical diversity that leaves travelers spellbound. Bordered by the imposing Truong Son Mountain Range in the west and embraced by the azure waters of the East Sea in the east, this enchanting region offers a picturesque tapestry of natural wonders.

• Mountain Majesty: The Truong Son Mountain Range, also known as the Annamite Range, stands tall and proud in the western part of Central Vietnam. Verdant jungles, cascading waterfalls, and charming ethnic minority communities define this picturesque mountainous landscape. For adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, trekking through the lush jungles and exploring the hidden gems of the highlands is an experience like no other.
• Lush Valleys and Fertile Plains: As you venture eastward, the scenery transforms into vast and fertile plains interspersed with lush valleys. The rolling greenery, adorned with rice paddies stretching as far as the eye can see, symbolizes the region’s strong agricultural heritage. The timeless beauty of the countryside provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city life, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the rhythm of rural Vietnam.
• Coastal Charms: The east coast of Central Vietnam boasts a mesmerizing coastline, inviting visitors with its pristine beaches and stunning vistas. Rugged cliffs, golden sands, and turquoise waters paint a breathtaking picture, providing the perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Da Nang , a prominent coastal city, showcases a long stretch of beautiful sandy shores, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
• Scenic Rivers: Central Vietnam is blessed with several significant rivers that play a vital role in shaping the region’s landscape and lifestyle. The Perfume River gently winds its way through the imperial city of Hue , creating an ambiance of romance and serenity, also an attractive tourist sport. The Thu Bon River gracefully embraces the ancient town of Hoi An , serving as a lifeline for the town’s historical trading past. These scenic waterways offer delightful opportunities for boat rides and cultural encounters.

Central Vietnam: A Tapestry of Historical Significance:

Central Vietnam, a region teeming with natural beauty and cultural richness, has a storied history that dates back millennia. As the heartland of Vietnam, this captivating area has witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties, the influences of various cultures, and the struggles of its people, leaving behind a tapestry of historical significance that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

• Ancient Kingdoms and Empires: The history of Central Vietnam is interwoven with the emergence of several ancient kingdoms and empires. The Champa Kingdom , known for its Indian-influenced culture, thrived in the coastal regions from the 2nd to the 19th century, leaving behind remarkable temple complexes and unique artistic expressions that still stand today. The Chams‘ legacy is evident in the architecture of My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and other archaeological remains scattered across the region.
• The Imperial Capital of Hue: Central Vietnam rose to prominence as the imperial capital under the Nguyen Dynasty , which reigned from 1802 to 1945. Hue became the political, cultural, and spiritual center of Vietnam, witnessing a period of significant artistic and architectural achievements. The Hue Citadel, an opulent complex with impressive gates, palaces, and temples, remains a testament to the dynasty’s grandeur. The city also gave birth to the unique Hue Royal Court Music, recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage.
• The Turmoil of War: The region bore witness to the turmoil of the Vietnam War , a period that left a deep impact on the people and landscape. Central Vietnam saw intense fighting, especially along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that divided the country. Sites like the Vinh Moc Tunnels, where villagers sought refuge from bombing raids, serve as poignant reminders of the hardships endured during this turbulent era.
• Cultural Fusion and Trading Hub: Hoi An, an ancient town in Central Vietnam, exemplifies the region’s rich cultural fusion and historical significance as a bustling trading hub. Throughout its history, Hoi An welcomed merchants from China, Japan, Europe, and other parts of Southeast Asia, fostering a unique blend of architectural styles, customs, and traditions. The well-preserved Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a living museum of history and a vibrant showcase of the town’s multicultural heritage.

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Festivals and Culture: Celebrating Traditions in Central Vietnam:

Central Vietnam is a cultural treasure trove, where vibrant festivals and age-old traditions come to life, reflecting the region’s rich heritage and diverse communities. From colorful celebrations to time-honored customs, the festivals of Central Vietnam offer an immersive and unforgettable experience for both locals and travelers.

• Lunar New Year (Tet): Tet is the most important and widely celebrated festival in Vietnam, and Central Vietnam comes alive with festivities during this time. As families reunite, the region becomes a hub of joy and excitement. Homes are adorned with traditional decorations, and locals partake in time-honored customs, such as visiting pagodas and ancestral altars to pay respects to their ancestors. The streets are adorned with colorful flowers, and dragon dances and vibrant parades fill the air with a sense of merriment and renewal.
• Hue Festival: The biennial Hue Festival is a cultural extravaganza that showcases the heritage of the imperial city. Celebrated since 2000, this event attracts visitors from across the globe to witness a captivating array of traditional arts, performances, and exhibitions. During the festival, the Hue Citadel and other historic sites serve as majestic backdrops for performances that bring the city’s history and cultural legacy to life.
• Hoi An Lantern Festival: On the 14th day of each lunar month, the Ancient Town of Hoi An transforms into a mesmerizing wonderland during the Hoi An Lantern Festival. As the sun sets, the town’s colorful lanterns light up, casting a dreamlike glow over the quaint streets. Locals release lanterns on the Thu Bon River, creating a magical scene that symbolizes hopes and wishes. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of traditional music, dance, and culinary delights that embody the essence of Hoi An’s cultural identity.
• Mid-Autumn Festival: Celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, the Mid-Autumn Festival is a joyous occasion for families and children in Central Vietnam. Streets come alive with lantern processions and vibrant dragon dances. Mooncakes, a delectable traditional treat, are exchanged among loved ones as a symbol of unity and good fortune. Children carry colorful lanterns and participate in games, making it a delightful and enchanting time for all.
• Cultural Diversity: Central Vietnam’s festivals reflect the diverse ethnic communities that call the region home. From the colorful Kate Festival of the Cham people to the gong festivals of the Central Highlands, each celebration showcases unique customs, traditional attire, and age-old rituals that embody the region’s cultural mosaic.

Economy of Central Vietnam: Thriving Amidst Diversity:

Central Vietnam, a region known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture, also boasts a diverse and flourishing economy. With a strategic geographical location and a blend of traditional industries and modern development, Central Vietnam has become a key economic powerhouse within the country.

• Agriculture and Aquaculture: Agriculture is the backbone of Central Vietnam’s economy, with the fertile plains and valleys providing an ideal environment for rice cultivation. The region is a major contributor to Vietnam’s rice production, helping to ensure food security for the nation. Additionally, aquaculture plays a significant role, with coastal provinces like Quang Nam and Quang Ngai being major centers for fishing and seafood processing.
• Tourism Industry: Central Vietnam’s stunning natural beauty and historical landmarks have made it a popular tourist destination. Cities like Hue , Hoi An , Da Nang or Nha Trang , attract millions of visitors each year, generating substantial revenue for the region. Another popular destination is also Phong Nha-Ke Bang park . Tourists flock to explore the imperial history of Hue, stroll through the charming streets of Hoi An’s Ancient Town, and bask in the coastal allure of Da Nang’s pristine beaches. The tourism industry has spurred the development of hospitality services, restaurants, and entertainment establishments, contributing significantly to the region’s economic growth.
• Manufacturing and Trade: Central Vietnam is emerging as a major manufacturing and trading hub. Da Nang, with its deep-water port and well-connected transportation infrastructure, has become a strategic location for industries such as electronics, textiles, and automobile manufacturing. The region’s convenient location along the North-South corridor also facilitates trade with neighboring countries and international markets.
• Education and Healthcare: Cities like Da Nang and Hue are becoming educational and healthcare centers for the region. As economic development continues, there is a growing demand for quality education and healthcare services, attracting investment in these sectors.
• Infrastructure Development: The Vietnamese government, recognizing the potential of Central Vietnam, has been investing significantly in infrastructure development. The construction of new highways, airports, and seaports has improved connectivity within the region and beyond, bolstering economic activities and attracting further investments.

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Central Vietnam: Beauty and Heritage Unveiled:

Central Vietnam has emerged as a gem in the country’s tourism landscape, attracting travelers from far and wide with its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. With a perfect blend of historical landmarks, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, tourism in Central Vietnam offers an enchanting journey filled with unforgettable experiences.

• Historical and Cultural Delights: The region’s historical significance is evident in the ancient city of Hue, once the imperial capital of Vietnam. The Hue Citadel , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases opulent palaces and temples, offering a glimpse into the royal past. The tombs of past emperors and the Thien Mu Pagoda are other historical treasures waiting to be explored. In Hoi An’s Ancient Town, travelers step back in time as they wander through narrow streets lined with lanterns, centuries-old merchant houses, and colorful temples. The town’s cultural fusion is celebrated during the Hoi An Lantern Festival, where lanterns illuminate the night sky, creating an ethereal ambiance.
• Breathtaking Natural Wonders: Central Vietnam’s landscape is an exquisite tapestry of mountains, valleys, and coastline. The Marble Mountains near Da Nang boast limestone caves, pagodas, and panoramic vistas. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of stunning caves, including Son Doong , the world’s largest cave. Adventurers can explore these natural wonders on thrilling tours that reveal mesmerizing stalactites, underground rivers, and unique ecosystems.
• Beaches and Coastal Retreats: The region’s coastline is studded with pristine beaches and coastal towns. Da Nang’s My Khe Beach , often dubbed as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, offers golden sands and crystal-clear waters perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Lang Co Beach, embraced by mountains and lagoons, is an idyllic retreat for those seeking tranquility.
• Culinary Adventures: Central Vietnam’s cuisine is a delight for food enthusiasts. Bun Bo Hue, Cao Lau, and Mi Quang are iconic dishes that showcase the region’s distinct flavors. Food tours and cooking classes allow travelers to savor these delicacies while immersing themselves in the local culinary culture.

The biggest and popular cities of Central Vietnam:

Central Vietnam is home to a diverse array of cities, each offering a unique blend of cultural richness and historical significance. From ancient imperial capitals to modern coastal hubs and highland charmers, these cities invite travelers to explore their captivating charm and immerse themselves in the region’s vibrant tapestry.

• 1. Vinh – Gateway to the North: As the capital of Nghe An province, Vinh is a thriving city with a mix of modernity and tradition. The city offers insights into Ho Chi Minh’s early life, with historical sites and museums dedicated to Vietnam’s beloved leader.
• 2. Dong Hoi – Coastal Tranquility: Dong Hoi is a peaceful coastal city, known for its scenic beaches and proximity to the stunning Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Visitors can explore the nearby caves and enjoy a laid-back beach atmosphere.
• 3. Hue – Imperial Majesty: Once the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty, Hue is a living testament to Vietnam’s imperial past. The Hue Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases grand palaces, temples, and ancient gates. The city’s rich heritage is celebrated through its captivating festivals and the enchanting Perfume River that winds through its heart.
• 4. Da Nang – Coastal Wonder: Da Nang is a modern and dynamic coastal city, renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and impressive Dragon Bridge. It serves as a gateway to Central Vietnam, with its strategic location attracting tourists and businesses alike. The Marble Mountains and Ba Na Hills are popular attractions nearby.
• 5. Hoi An – Ancient Charm: A UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, Hoi An exudes a magical atmosphere with its lantern-lit streets, centuries-old architecture, and charming waterways. The city’s cultural fusion is evident in its unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences, making it a haven for history enthusiasts and art lovers.
• 6. Quy Nhon – Seaside Serenity: Quy Nhon is a coastal gem, known for its tranquil beaches, lush landscapes, and fresh seafood. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and an escape from the tourist crowds.
• 7. Nha Trang – Riviera Retreat: Famous for its picturesque bay, Nha Trang is a popular beach resort destination. The city boasts pristine sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant underwater world, making it a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
• 8. Tam Ky – Quang Nam’s Heart: Tam Ky is the capital of Quang Nam province and serves as a gateway to explore the surrounding countryside and cultural attractions. The city’s tranquil ambiance and friendly locals offer a glimpse into the authentic Vietnamese way of life.
• 9. Da Lat – Highland Charmer: Located in the Central Highlands, Da Lat is a city of eternal spring, surrounded by lush pine forests and picturesque valleys. Known for its temperate climate, flower gardens, and romantic ambiance, Da Lat is a favored destination for couples and nature lovers.
• 10. Buon Ma Thuot – Highland Enchantment: Situated in the Central Highlands, Buon Ma Thuot is the coffee capital of Vietnam. Surrounded by lush coffee plantations and picturesque landscapes, it offers a serene escape into the heart of Vietnam’s coffee culture.
• 11. Tuy Hoa – Coastal Serenade: Tuy Hoa is a coastal city blessed with idyllic beaches and coconut tree-lined shores. It provides a more off-the-beaten-path experience, where visitors can enjoy tranquility and the simple charms of coastal life.

Captivating Tourist Places in Central Vietnam:

Central Vietnam is a treasure trove of enchanting destinations that beckon travelers with their diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating history. From ancient towns and imperial citadels to pristine beaches and breathtaking natural wonders, these 15 tourist places in Central Vietnam promise unforgettable experiences.

• 1. Hue – Imperial Majesty: Step back in time at the Hue Citadel, an impressive complex of palaces and temples that once served as the imperial capital of Vietnam. Explore the Perfume River and immerse yourself in the city’s traditional festivals and ancient traditions.
• 2. Hoi An – Ancient Town Charms: Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, well-preserved merchant houses, and colorful temples make it a living museum of history and culture. Discover its rich cultural fusion and stroll along the Thu Bon River for a serene experience.
• 3. Da Nang – Coastal Beauty: Da Nang’s beautiful beaches, including My Khe and Non Nuoc, lure sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Visit the Marble Mountains and experience the modern Dragon Bridge that breathes fire at night.
• 4. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park – Embark on an adventure in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the world’s largest cave, Son Doong. Explore stunning underground landscapes, glistening rivers, and unique limestone formations.
• 5. Nha Trang – Riviera Retreat: Relax on Nha Trang’s stunning sandy shores and indulge in water activities like snorkeling and diving. Take a boat trip to nearby islands and discover the underwater wonders of the coral reefs.
• 6. Ba Na Hills – Hill Station Escapade: Located near Da Nang, Ba Na Hills offers a French-inspired hill station experience with cool weather and lush gardens. Ride the Golden Bridge for panoramic views and enjoy the Fantasy Park’s amusement rides.
• 7. My Son Sanctuary – Ancient Ruins: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son Sanctuary showcases the remains of ancient Cham temples that date back to the 4th century. Discover the architectural marvels amidst lush jungle surroundings.
• 8. Quy Nhon – Tranquil Retreat: Quy Nhon’s serene beaches and laid-back atmosphere make it an ideal escape from the tourist crowds. Enjoy the fresh seafood and witness stunning sunrises by the coast.
• 9. Cham Islands – Marine Paradise: A short boat ride from Hoi An, the Cham Islands boast pristine coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and exploring the vibrant marine life.
• 10. Vinh Moc Tunnels – Historical Remnants: A remnant of the Vietnam War, the Vinh Moc Tunnels near Dong Hoi offer a glimpse into the struggles of the local community during the conflict.
• 11. Marble Mountains – Spiritual Haven: These five limestone hills near Da Nang are dotted with caves, pagodas, and shrines, making it a popular destination for spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts.
• 12. Lang Co – Scenic Serenity: Nestled between mountains and lagoons, Lang Co offers a tranquil retreat with picturesque landscapes and a charming fishing village ambiance.
• 13. Da Lat – Romantic Highland: Known as the „City of Eternal Spring,“ Da Lat’s temperate climate, flower gardens, and colonial architecture make it a favorite romantic getaway.
• 14. Dak Lak – Cultural Immersion: Experience the traditional life of ethnic minorities in Dak Lak, a province in the Central Highlands. Explore the majestic Lak Lake, take part in a traditional longhouse stay, and witness the captivating Gong Festival.
• 15. Quang Binh – Majestic Caves: Quang Binh is home to more than just Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park; it boasts other impressive caves like Paradise Cave and Hang En, perfect for adventurous explorations.

15 Beautiful and Favorite Beaches in Central Vietnam:

Central Vietnam is blessed with an array of stunning beaches that entice travelers with their pristine shores, turquoise waters, and peaceful ambiance. From vibrant coastal cities to remote island paradises, these 15 beautiful beaches in Central Vietnam promise unforgettable beach getaways.

• 1. My Khe Beach , Da Nang: Renowned for its golden sands and gentle waves, My Khe Beach is one of the most famous and picturesque beaches in Vietnam. Its clear waters and modern amenities make it an ideal spot for both relaxation and water sports.
• 2. An Bang Beach , Hoi An: An Bang Beach’s laid-back atmosphere, palm-fringed shoreline, and colorful fishing boats create a tranquil haven. Enjoy beachside seafood dining and witness stunning sunsets over the horizon.
• 3. Nha Trang Beach , Nha Trang: Nha Trang’s crescent-shaped beach offers a vibrant coastal vibe, perfect for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and beachfront dining. Take a boat trip to nearby islands for snorkeling and diving adventures.
• 4. Doc Let Beach , Nha Trang: For a more secluded experience, head to Doc Let Beach. This hidden gem features white sandy beaches, shallow waters, and peaceful surroundings, making it an ideal escape from the city crowds.
• 5. Cua Dai Beach , Hoi An: Cua Dai Beach, located near Hoi An, charms visitors with its long stretch of fine sand and gentle waves. It is an excellent spot to enjoy the sea breeze and indulge in fresh seafood delicacies.
• 6. Lang Co Beach , Lang Co: Nestled between mountains and lagoons, Lang Co Beach offers an idyllic retreat surrounded by natural beauty. Its tranquil waters and gentle slopes make it suitable for swimming and beach picnics.
• 7. Bai Bien Beach , Quy Nhon: Located in the coastal city center, Quy Nhon beach spans over 5-kilometer from Mui Tan to Ghenh Rang. Quy Nhon beach features golden sand spreading over the seashore, creating a paradise space like Maldives’beach. The arch-shaped shoreline embraces a spectacular strip of sand.
• 8. Ky Co Beach , Quy Nhon: Accessible by boat or a short hike, Ky Co Beach is a breathtaking paradise featuring white sands, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. A haven for photographers and nature lovers.
• 9. Thanh Hoa Beach, Dong Hoi: A lesser-known beach in Dong Hoi, Thanh Hoa Beach offers a peaceful escape with soft sand and inviting waters. Ideal for beachcombing and relaxation.
• 10. Bai Dua Beach, Nha Trang: Situated on Hon Tre Island, Bai Dua Beach is a secluded gem with emerald waters and coral reefs. Snorkel, swim, and enjoy a serene island experience away from the mainland.
• 11. Nhat Le Beach, Dong Hoi: Nhat Le Beach is Dong Hoi’s main beach, boasting soft sand and clear waters. Relax under coconut trees and watch local fishermen ply their trade.
• 12. Bai Xep Beach, Quy Nhon: Located near the renowned Ky Co Beach, Bai Xep Beach showcases its own charm with golden sands, clear waters, and a laid-back ambiance.
• 13. Doc Lach Beach, Quy Nhon: Tucked away in a secluded cove, Doc Lach Beach offers a serene and secluded escape with clear waters and scenic rock formations.
• 14. Doc May Beach, Nha Trang: A hidden gem in Nha Trang, Doc May Beach offers a tranquil atmosphere, away from the bustling crowds. Enjoy the natural beauty and pristine waters.
• 15. Ky Ha Beach, Quang Nam: Nestled along the coastline of Quang Nam province, Ky Ha Beach boasts a pristine shoreline and tranquil ambiance. Enjoy beachcombing and the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

15 Historical Gems of Central Vietnam:

Central Vietnam is a treasure trove of historical sites, each weaving its unique narrative of the region’s rich heritage. From ancient temples and imperial relics to war-torn landmarks, these 15 historical places in Central Vietnam offer an immersive journey through time.

• 1. Hue Citadel , Hue: The majestic Hue Citadel served as the imperial capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty. Its fortified walls enclose a royal complex with palaces, temples, and the Forbidden Purple City, a testament to Vietnam’s regal past.
• 2. Hoi An Ancient Town , Hoi An: Hoi An’s well-preserved Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases its former glory as a bustling international trading port from the 15th to the 19th century. Wander through its charming streets and visit historic merchant houses.
• 3. My Son Sanctuary , Quang Nam: A sacred Champa complex, My Son Sanctuary houses a collection of Hindu temples and religious monuments dating back to the 4th century. The intricate architecture reflects the influence of the ancient Champa civilization.
• 4. Thien Mu Pagoda , Hue: Perched on the banks of the Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda is an iconic symbol of Hue. Its seven-story tower and serene surroundings make it one of Vietnam’s oldest and most revered Buddhist pagodas.
• 5. Vinh Moc Tunnels , Quang Tri: During the Vietnam War, the Vinh Moc Tunnels provided shelter for locals amidst heavy bombings. Explore this labyrinthine network to gain insight into the hardships endured by those seeking refuge.
• 6. Cham Museum , Da Nang: The Cham Museum houses an extensive collection of Cham sculptures and artifacts, offering a glimpse into the artistry and religious beliefs of the ancient Cham civilization.
• 7. Quang Tri Citadel , Quang Tri: Built during the Nguyen Dynasty, Quang Tri Citadel was a crucial military stronghold during the Vietnam War. Today, its ruins stand as a poignant reminder of the conflict’s impact on the region.
• 8. Dong Hoi Citadel, Dong Hoi: The ancient Dong Hoi Citadel bears witness to Vietnam’s long history of defense against foreign invaders. Explore its gates and walls, revealing tales of resilience and courage.
• 9. Con Co Island Fortress , Con Co Island: This island fortress played a strategic role during the Vietnam War. The remnants of bunkers and tunnels tell stories of soldiers‘ dedication and sacrifice during the conflict.
• 10. Thai Hoa Palace , Hue: Within the Imperial City of Hue, Thai Hoa Palace was the primary audience hall where the emperor held grand ceremonies and received dignitaries.
• 11. Quang Duc Gate, Hue: An iconic entrance of the Imperial City, Quang Duc Gate holds historical significance as the symbolic gateway for the emperor and his court during important events.
• 12. My Lai Massacre Site , Quang Ngai: A solemn reminder of the Vietnam War’s atrocities, the My Lai Massacre Site pays homage to the innocent lives lost during this tragic event.
• 13. Tam Toa Church, Quang Tri: Tam Toa Church, damaged during the war, stands as a stark reminder of the conflict’s impact on places of worship and cultural heritage.
• 14. Hai Van Pass , Da Nang – Thua Thien Hue: Historically a significant route, the Hai Van Pass offers panoramic views and holds a strategic place in Vietnam’s past.
• 15. Po Nagar Cham Towers , Nha Trang: The Po Nagar Cham Towers, built between the 7th and 12th centuries, are a group of ancient Hindu temples showcasing the Cham people’s spiritual devotion.

Activities and Adventure for tourists in Central Vietnam:

Central Vietnam is a playground for adventurers, offering a myriad of thrilling activities and unforgettable experiences for tourists seeking an adrenaline rush and a deeper connection with nature and culture. From exploring dramatic landscapes to immersing in local traditions, these activities in Central Vietnam promise to create lasting memories.

• 1. Trekking in Bach Ma National Park: Embark on a trekking expedition through the lush rainforests and rugged terrain of Bach Ma National Park. Ascend to its mountain peaks for breathtaking views, and marvel at the park’s diverse flora and fauna.
• 2. Motorbike Adventure on Hai Van Pass: Take on the exhilarating Hai Van Pass, often hailed as one of the most scenic coastal routes in the world. Rent a motorbike and cruise along winding roads with stunning panoramas of the sea and mountains.
• 3. Snorkeling and Diving in Cham Islands: Explore the vibrant underwater world of Cham Islands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Dive or snorkel amidst coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life, creating an unforgettable aquatic adventure.
• 4. Water Sports in Nha Trang: Nha Trang, known for its azure waters, offers an array of water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing. Get your heart pumping and enjoy the thrill of gliding across the waves.
• 5. Caving in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: Embark on an expedition to the otherworldly caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the magnificent formations within Son Doong Cave, the largest cave on Earth, or explore Paradise Cave’s mesmerizing beauty.
• 6. Sunrise Fishing with Local Fishermen: Immerse in the daily life of local fishermen by joining them for a sunrise fishing experience on traditional basket boats in Hoi An or Quy Nhon. Learn their traditional techniques and hear fascinating stories of the sea.
• 7. White Water Rafting in Da Lat: Challenge yourself with white water rafting in Da Lat’s thrilling river rapids. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, this adventure promises an adrenaline-filled day on the water.
• 8. Hot Air Balloon Ride in Binh Thuan: Take to the skies with a hot air balloon ride over the sand dunes and coastal vistas of Binh Thuan. Witness the stunning sunrise or sunset from high above for a magical experience.
• 9. Homestay Experience in Ethnic Villages: For a cultural immersion, opt for a homestay in an ethnic village in the Central Highlands. Learn about local customs, traditions, and cuisine while connecting with the warm and hospitable villagers.
• 10. River Kayaking in Hue: Paddle along the tranquil Perfume River in Hue on a kayaking adventure. Explore hidden corners of the city and visit ancient temples and pagodas along the riverbanks.
• 11. Zipline Adventure at Ba Na Hills, Da Nang: Soar through the sky on a thrilling zipline adventure at Ba Na Hills, Da Nang. Experience an adrenaline rush as you zip past lush landscapes and breathtaking vistas, offering an unforgettable aerial view of the region’s beauty.
• 12. Food Tour and Cooking Classes: Delight in Central Vietnam’s delectable cuisine through food tours and cooking classes in Hoi An or Hue. Sample local specialties and learn the secrets of preparing authentic Vietnamese dishes.
• 13. Jeep Safari in Phu Yen: Embark on an off-road jeep safari through Phu Yen’s scenic landscapes and visit remote villages, lush rice paddies, and dramatic coastlines.
• 14. Whale Watching in Quang Binh: From December to April, catch a glimpse of the majestic whales migrating through the waters of Quang Binh. Whale watching tours provide an awe-inspiring encounter with these gentle giants.
• 15. Abseiling in Marble Mountains: Challenge your adventurous spirit with abseiling down the rugged cliffs of Marble Mountains, near Da Nang. Experience the thrill of descending amidst stunning natural rock formations.

🤔 Why to visit or not to visit Central Vietnam?

The decision to visit Central Vietnam depends on individual preferences, interests, and travel expectations. While some may be enchanted by its cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and local experiences, others may prefer a more tranquil or developed travel destination. Weighing the pros and cons can help travelers make an informed choice and determine if Central Vietnam aligns with their travel desires.

👉 Reasons to visit Central Vietnam:

• Diverse Landscapes: Central Vietnam boasts a wide array of landscapes, from stunning beaches and coastal towns to lush mountains, verdant forests, and ancient caves. This diversity provides opportunities for various outdoor activities and scenic experiences.
• Rich History and Culture: The region is steeped in history, with ancient temples, imperial citadels, and well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage sites like Hoi An Ancient Town and Hue Citadel. Visitors can immerse themselves in Vietnam’s cultural heritage and traditions.
• Delectable Cuisine: Central Vietnam is renowned for its delicious and distinct cuisine. From the flavorful street food of Hoi An to the royal dishes of Hue, food enthusiasts will find a delightful gastronomic journey.
• Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures: For adventurous travelers, Central Vietnam offers hidden gems and lesser-known attractions that provide a more authentic and less crowded experience.
• Warm and Welcoming Locals: The people of Central Vietnam are known for their hospitality and friendliness, making visitors feel welcomed and embraced by the local community.
• Beach Escapes: The region’s pristine beaches, such as My Khe and An Bang, offer relaxation and water activities, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Central Vietnam is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country, including Hai Van Pass, Marble Mountains, and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

👉 Reasons not to visit Central Vietnam:

• Seasonal Weather: Central Vietnam experiences a distinct rainy season and typhoon season, which may affect travel plans and outdoor activities during certain months.
• Crowded Tourist Spots: Popular tourist destinations like Hoi An and Da Nang can get crowded, especially during peak travel seasons, leading to longer queues and a more bustling atmosphere.
• Language Barrier: English proficiency among locals might be limited, especially in rural areas, making communication challenging for some travelers.
• Long Travel Distances: The region’s attractions are spread out, requiring considerable travel time between different destinations, which could be a concern for travelers with limited time.
• Infrastructure Development: In some less-developed areas, tourists may encounter basic facilities and services that might not meet the standards of more modern tourist hubs.
• Environmental Concerns: Popular tourist spots can face environmental challenges due to large visitor numbers, leading to potential issues with waste and sustainability.

🍜 Food and Cuisine in Central Vietnam :

Central Vietnam is a culinary paradise, where the vibrant flavors, exquisite dishes, and unique culinary traditions captivate the taste buds of travelers from all over the world. The region’s cuisine is influenced by its diverse geography, blending coastal seafood delicacies, imperial recipes, and hearty mountain dishes to create a gastronomic adventure like no other.

• 1. Cao Lau: Hoi An’s iconic dish, Cao Lau, is a delectable noodle dish featuring tender slices of pork, bean sprouts, and herbs, all served on a bed of thick rice noodles. The secret to its distinct taste lies in the water used to cook the noodles, sourced from a specific ancient well in Hoi An.
• 2. Banh Xeo: Known as Vietnamese pancakes, Banh Xeo is a crispy and savory delight made from a rice flour batter filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Wrap the pancake in fresh lettuce leaves and herbs, and dip it in a sweet and tangy sauce for a burst of flavors.
• 3. Mi Quang: A specialty of Quang Nam Province, Mi Quang is a hearty noodle dish featuring yellow turmeric-infused noodles topped with shrimp, pork, quail eggs, and peanuts. The dish is then garnished with fresh herbs, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
• 4. Bun Thit Nuong: A delightful combination of grilled pork, vermicelli noodles, and fresh herbs, Bun Thit Nuong is a favorite Vietnamese dish. Drizzle it with nuoc cham, a traditional dipping sauce, for an explosion of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
• 5. Bun Bo Hue: Originating from the imperial city of Hue, Bun Bo Hue is a hearty beef noodle soup. Its distinctive taste comes from the complex broth made with lemongrass, shrimp paste, and chili oil, complemented by tender slices of beef and pork.
• 6. Com Hen: A specialty of Hue, Com Hen is a unique rice dish featuring baby mussels served with rice and an array of herbs, banana blossoms, and crushed peanuts. Add a splash of chili sauce for a delightful spicy kick.
• 7. Nem Lui: A central Vietnamese delicacy, Nem Lui consists of flavorful grilled pork skewers, wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs and vegetables. Dip it in a peanut sauce for a burst of nutty flavors.
• 8. Goi Cuon: Also known as Vietnamese spring rolls or fresh spring rolls, Goi Cuon is a healthy and refreshing appetizer filled with shrimp, herbs, vermicelli noodles, and sometimes pork, all wrapped in rice paper. Dip it in a peanut or hoisin-based sauce for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• 9. Banh Canh: This thick and chewy noodle soup is made with tapioca or rice flour and can be enjoyed with various toppings, such as shrimp, fish, or pork. Banh Canh is a comforting and satisfying dish, particularly popular in coastal areas.
• 10. Seafood Delicacies: Central Vietnam’s coastal cities like Da Nang and Nha Trang offer a bounty of fresh seafood dishes. Enjoy succulent grilled fish, prawns, squid, and various shellfish prepared with regional spices and herbs.
• 11. Che: Satisfy your sweet tooth with Central Vietnam’s traditional desserts known as Che. These delightful treats come in various flavors and consist of ingredients like beans, jelly, fruits, and coconut milk.
• 12. Nem Cuon: Similar to Goi Cuon, Nem Cuon are Vietnamese spring rolls, but they are served unfried. Filled with ground pork, shrimp, and herbs, they offer a light and refreshing alternative to the fried version.

✈️ How to get and travel to Central Vietnam?

Getting to and traveling within Central Vietnam is relatively straightforward, thanks to well-connected transportation options . The region is served by international airports, highways, and railways, making it easily accessible from various parts of Vietnam and neighboring countries.

1. By Air: Central Vietnam has two major international airports :

• Da Nang International Airport (DAD): Located in Da Nang city, this airport serves as a convenient gateway to Central Vietnam. It operates direct international flights from cities like Bangkok, Seoul, Singapore, and Taipei, as well as domestic flights from major Vietnamese cities – Saigon , Hanoi , Nha Trang .
• Phu Bai International Airport (HUI): Located near Hue city, Phu Bai Airport handles both domestic and limited international flights.
• There are also airports in Vinh, Dong Hoi, Quy Nhon, Cam Ranh, Da Lat, Pleiku and Buon Ma Thuot.

2. By Train: Central Vietnam is accessible by train through the North-South railway line, connecting Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south. Major train stations in the region include Da Nang Railway Station and Hue Railway Station. Traveling by train offers a scenic journey, especially through the Hai Van Pass, one of the most beautiful rail routes in Vietnam.

3. By Bus: Buses and coaches provide an economical option for traveling to Central Vietnam from other parts of the country. Many cities in Central Vietnam, such as Da Nang, Hue, Hoi An, and Quy Nhon, have bus terminals serving various routes.

4. By Car or Motorbike: Travelers can opt for car rentals or motorbike rentals to explore Central Vietnam at their own pace. The road network is well-developed, and traveling by road allows for more flexibility to visit remote areas and hidden gems.

5. Within Central Vietnam: Within Central Vietnam, various transportation options are available for traveling between cities and attractions:

• Taxis: Taxis are readily available in cities like Da Nang, Hue, and Hoi An, offering a convenient mode of transportation for short distances.
• Grab and Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab, a popular ride-hailing app, operates in major cities in Central Vietnam, making it easy to book rides at your convenience.
• Motorbike Taxis (Xe Om): Xe Om is a common mode of transport in Vietnam, where motorbike drivers offer rides for short distances at negotiated prices.
• Local Buses: Each city has its own local bus network, providing affordable transportation within urban areas and nearby attractions.
• Trains by VR : You can also travel by train via Central Vietnam, check Vietnam Train Map .
• You can book tickets / flights to and in Central Vietnam on Baolau ➜ or 12go.asia ➜ .

☀️ Weather in Central Vietnam + The Best Time to Visit:

Central Vietnam experiences a varied climate due to its diverse geography, with a mix of coastal lowlands, highlands, and mountainous areas. The weather can differ significantly between cities and regions within Central Vietnam. Generally, the region has two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season.

• 1. Rainy Season: The rainy season in Central Vietnam typically lasts from September to January, with peak rainfall occurring in October and November. During this period, the region experiences frequent rain showers and occasional typhoons, especially in coastal areas. While the landscape becomes lush and vibrant, heavy rainfall can lead to flooding and travel disruptions in some areas.
• 2. Dry Season: The dry season in Central Vietnam falls between February and August. This period is characterized by sunny and dry weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and beach visits. From February to April, the weather is pleasantly mild, and the landscape retains its greenery from the previous rainy season. As the dry season progresses, temperatures gradually rise, and the climate becomes hot and humid, particularly from June to August.

👉 The Best Time to Visit Central Vietnam:

The best time to visit Central Vietnam depends on travelers‘ preferences and the experiences they seek:

• February to April: This is considered the most favorable time to visit Central Vietnam. The weather is generally pleasant, with mild temperatures and little rainfall. It’s an ideal time for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring the region’s cultural sites without the discomfort of high heat or heavy rain.
• May to August: During these months, Central Vietnam experiences hot and humid weather, particularly in coastal areas like Da Nang and Nha Trang. However, this is also a great time for beach lovers, as the sea is calm and inviting. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy water sports and leisure activities along the coast.
• September to January: This period falls within the rainy season, and visitors can expect more frequent rainfall and occasional typhoons. While the region’s landscapes become lush and beautiful, some outdoor activities may be limited due to weather conditions. However, this season is also less crowded with tourists, offering a more tranquil and authentic experience for adventurous travelers.

🏡 Accommodation in Central Vietnam / Where to Stay:

Central Vietnam offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s preferences, from luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Whether you seek a tranquil escape in the countryside, a vibrant urban experience, or a serene beachfront stay, Central Vietnam’s accommodation choices cater to all tastes and budgets.

• 1. Luxury Resorts and Hotels: Central Vietnam boasts an impressive array of luxurious resorts and hotels, especially in coastal cities like Da Nang , Nha Trang , and Hoi An . These high-end properties often feature stunning ocean views, private beach access, and lavish amenities, such as spas, infinity pools, and fine-dining restaurants. They provide a perfect retreat for travelers seeking relaxation and indulgence.
• 2. Boutique Hotels and Villas: For those looking for a more intimate and personalized experience, boutique hotels and villas are scattered throughout Central Vietnam. These charming properties often blend modern comforts with traditional Vietnamese architecture and décor, creating a unique and inviting ambiance. Boutique accommodations are prevalent in Hoi An’s Ancient Town, offering a sense of history and culture.
• 3. Homestays and Guesthouses: Homestays and guesthouses are prevalent in rural areas and smaller towns, offering travelers an authentic glimpse into Vietnamese life and culture. Staying with a local host allows guests to connect with their hosts, try homemade meals, and immerse in the warm hospitality of Central Vietnam’s residents.
• 4. Mid-Range Hotels and Resorts: Central Vietnam provides numerous mid-range hotels and resorts that strike a balance between comfort and affordability. These properties offer well-appointed rooms, modern facilities, and a range of services to cater to various traveler needs. Many of them are conveniently located in the heart of cities or close to popular attractions.
• 5. Budget Hostels and Guesthouses: Backpackers and budget-conscious travelers will find an abundance of hostels and budget guesthouses in Central Vietnam. These accommodations offer basic amenities, clean and comfortable rooms, and communal spaces for socializing with fellow travelers. Budget options are available in most tourist destinations, making it easy to find an affordable place to stay.
• 6. Eco-Lodges and Nature Retreats: For eco-conscious travelers seeking a closer connection with nature, Central Vietnam features eco-lodges and nature retreats in tranquil settings. These eco-friendly accommodations offer an immersive experience in the region’s beautiful landscapes, often situated near national parks or remote coastal areas.
• 7. Serviced Apartments and Vacation Rentals: Long-term travelers or those looking for a home-away-from-home experience can opt for serviced apartments or vacation rentals. These self-catering accommodations provide additional space and amenities, making them suitable for families or those seeking an extended stay.

➜ Accommodation in Vietnam – Book Here

🔍 Interesting Places + Activities in Central Vietnam:

• 1. Hoi An Ancient Town : Step back in time in the enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through narrow streets adorned with lanterns, visit ancient temples and merchant houses, and indulge in delicious street food.
• 2. My Son Sanctuary : Explore the ancient ruins of My Son Sanctuary, another UNESCO World Heritage site, which once served as a significant center of the Cham civilization. Marvel at the well-preserved Hindu temples and learn about the region’s historical significance.
• 3. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park : Embark on a caving adventure in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO-listed park known for its impressive limestone caves and stunning landscapes. Don’t miss exploring the jaw-dropping Son Doong Cave, the world’s largest cave.
• 4. Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son): Discover the Marble Mountains near Da Nang, a cluster of five marble and limestone hills with caves, pagodas, and stunning viewpoints. Explore the Thuy Son Mountain and visit the sacred pagodas within the caves.
• 5. Imperial City of Hue : Step into the royal past of Vietnam at the Imperial City of Hue, a UNESCO site. Admire the grandeur of the Citadel, ancient palaces, and royal tombs that reflect the country’s imperial history.
• 6. Hai Van Pass : Take a breathtaking road trip along the Hai Van Pass, known for its stunning coastal vistas and mountain landscapes. The journey offers scenic viewpoints overlooking the South China Sea.
• 7. Ba Na Hills : Experience the unique world of Ba Na Hills, a French-inspired hill station near Da Nang. Ride the cable car to the top and explore Fantasy Park, the French Village, and the iconic Golden Bridge.
• 8. Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham): Escape to the Cham Islands, a serene archipelago off the coast of Hoi An. Enjoy snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on pristine beaches, surrounded by crystal-clear waters.
• 9. Lang Co Beach : Relax on the idyllic Lang Co Beach, nestled between the lush mountains and the sea. The tranquil ambiance and natural beauty make it an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway.
• 10. Dragon Bridge , Da Nang: Witness the mesmerizing Dragon Bridge in Da Nang, an architectural marvel that comes to life with a show of fire and water on weekends.
• 11. Local Cooking Classes: Join a cooking class in Hoi An or Hue to learn the art of preparing authentic Vietnamese dishes, from fresh spring rolls to savory noodle soups.
• 12. Thien Mu Pagoda : Visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, the tallest religious building in Vietnam, perched on a hill overlooking the Perfume River in Hue.
• 13. Cham Museum , Da Nang: Explore the Cham Museum in Da Nang, which houses an impressive collection of Cham art and artifacts, providing insights into the ancient civilization that once thrived in the region.
• 14. Suoi Tien Theme Park , Da Nang: Suoi Tien Theme Park is a vibrant and family-friendly amusement park located in Da Nang. The park offers a delightful escape for visitors of all ages, with a range of thrilling rides, water slides, and entertainment shows.
• 15. Basket Boat Experience: Join a basket boat experience in Hoi An or Quy Nhon, where you can navigate traditional woven boats with local fishermen, gaining insight into their daily lives.
• 16. Nha Trang Beach : Nha Trang is a coastal gem renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant beachside atmosphere. The long stretch of sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and a plethora of water sports and activities make Nha Trang Beach a popular destination for beach lovers and water enthusiasts.
• 17. Linh Ung Pagoda , Da Nang: Perched on the Son Tra Peninsula, Linh Ung Pagoda is an impressive Buddhist temple complex with a massive Lady Buddha statue overlooking the city of Da Nang. The serene ambiance and panoramic views make it a serene spot for spiritual reflection and scenic photography.
• 18. Po Nagar Cham Towers , Nha Trang: Explore the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers, a historical site dating back to the 7th century. These well-preserved towers, dedicated to Hindu deities, showcase intricate architectural details and offer a glimpse into the region’s Cham civilization.
• 19. Bach Ma National Park : Nature enthusiasts will find paradise at Bach Ma National Park, a biodiversity hotspot offering lush rainforests, picturesque waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Trekking and birdwatching are popular activities in this pristine wilderness.
• 20. Hon Khoi Salt Fields , Ninh Thuan: Discover the mesmerizing salt fields of Hon Khoi, where the locals have been producing salt for generations. The geometric patterns of the salt ponds against the backdrop of the sea and mountains create a unique and photogenic sight.

📍 Central Vietnam – Google Map:

❓ Frequently Asked Questions + Tips for Central Vietnam:

1. how to book and buy tickets or flights to central vietnam.

• You can book tickets and flights for transport to Central Vietnam on Baolau or 12go.asia .

2. What are the must-visit destinations in Central Vietnam?

• Central Vietnam is home to several popular destinations, including Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue, and Quang Binh (Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park). Each place offers its own unique attractions, from beautiful beaches in Da Nang to ancient temples in Hoi An and historical sites in Hue.

3. When is the best time to visit Central Vietnam?

• The best time to visit Central Vietnam is during the dry season, which typically runs from February to August. This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region’s natural beauty.

4. How do I get around Central Vietnam?

• Central Vietnam is well-connected by various transportation options . Domestic flights are available to Da Nang and Hue. You can also travel by train, bus, or rent a motorbike to explore the region at your own pace.

5. What are the famous dishes of Central Vietnam?

• Central Vietnam is renowned for its delicious cuisine. Don’t miss trying dishes like cao lau (noodles with pork and herbs) and mi quang (turmeric noodles with pork and shrimp). Hue, in particular, is known for its royal cuisine, featuring dishes like bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup).

6. Can I visit the My Son Sanctuary from Hoi An?

• Yes, you can visit the My Son Sanctuary , a UNESCO World Heritage site, from Hoi An. It’s a short distance away, and you can take a guided tour or hire a private car to explore the ancient Cham temple complex.

7. What are the best beaches in Central Vietnam?

• Central Vietnam boasts some stunning beaches . Da Nang is famous for its My Khe Beach, while Hoi An has An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach. Quy Nhon and Nha Trang are also known for their beautiful coastal areas.

8. Is it safe to swim in the sea in Central Vietnam?

• Swimming in the sea is generally safe in Central Vietnam, but it’s essential to pay attention to local safety flags and signs. Some areas may have strong currents, so it’s best to swim in designated swimming areas.

9. Are there any local festivals in Central Vietnam worth experiencing?

• Yes, Central Vietnam hosts several colorful festivals throughout the year. The Hue Festival, held every two years in April, is a grand cultural event showcasing traditional music, dance, and performances. The Lantern Festival in Hoi An is also a beautiful sight to behold.

10. How can I support the local communities in Central Vietnam?

• Supporting local businesses, artisans, and eco-friendly initiatives is a great way to contribute to the local economy and help sustain traditional crafts and practices. Opt for local tour operators, purchase handmade souvenirs, and respect the local culture and environment.

11. What are some eco-tourism activities in Central Vietnam?

• Central Vietnam offers various eco-tourism activities , such as visiting the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, where you can explore caves and enjoy jungle trekking. You can also take part in community-based tourism initiatives, such as homestays in rural villages, to experience the authentic local lifestyle.

12. Can I take a day trip to the Ba Na Hills from Da Nang?

• Yes, you can take a day trip to the Ba Na Hills from Da Nang. Ba Na Hills is a popular hill station with stunning views, the Golden Bridge, and various entertainment facilities. Many tour operators offer day tours that include transportation, cable car rides, and entry to the attractions.

13. What are the most interesting things or facts about Vietnam?

• Vietnam, a country with a captivating allure, is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, including the mesmerizing limestone karsts of Halong Bay, the terraced rice fields of Sapa, and the bustling waterways of the Mekong Delta. Its rich history unfolds through ancient temples in Hanoi, the imperial city of Hue, and the Cu Chi Tunnels, providing a glimpse into Vietnam’s resilience during wartime. The country’s vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality further enhance the allure of this Southeast Asian gem. Read this: 15 Interesting Things of Vietnam .

14. What to expect from Vietnam Culture?

• Expect a vibrant cultural tapestry in Vietnam , characterized by traditional values, a strong sense of community, and a deep-rooted respect for family. You’ll encounter a fusion of French, Chinese, and indigenous influences in art, architecture, and cuisine. Traditional water puppetry, folk music, and dance performances showcase the country’s artistic flair. The importance of rituals and festivals in daily life adds a colorful dimension, while the warmth and friendliness of the Vietnamese people make for a welcoming and enriching cultural experience.

BOOK a TOUR / TICKETS in Vietnam ➜

Phu Quoc – Travel Guide ｜ Saigon – Travel Guide ｜ Hanoi – Old Quarter ｜ Can Tho – Travel Guide ｜ Con Dao – Travel Guide ｜ Vung Tau – Travel Guide

Thanh Hoa in Vietnam ➔

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An Exciting Central Vietnam 1 Week Itinerary To Experience

Planning a trip to Vietnam and interested in focusing on Central Vietnam? It may be confusing on where to go since there are so many incredible places to visit. Therefore, we created the perfect Central Vietnam 1 week itinerary that you need to follow! 

Central Vietnam is often overlooked and whizzed through quickly when traveling from North to South Vietnam . We’ve traveled to Central Vietnam a few times, especially since we live in this country , and love this area. 

The top reasons to visit are fewer crowds compared to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (where we live) and tons of fun and exciting things to do such as visiting gorgeous beaches and UNESCO recognized historical sites and eating delicious food (Central Vietnamese flavors is our favorite!)

Without further ado, continue reading this post on how to spend 1 week in Central Vietnam . With this Central Vietnam 1 week itinerary, we’re off to explore the cities – Danang, Hoi An, Hue, and other hidden gems in the area and sharing the top things to do here. 

A full week tour isn’t necessary, but you’re welcome to take day tours in each of the locations. We’ve recommended some tours below. Regardless, it’ll be an exciting vacation visiting these Central Vietnam attractions. 

Click on the links below to “jump” to a certain section of this Central Vietnam post:

• Visa Information
• When to Visit Central Vietnam

How to Get to Central Vietnam

• How to Travel Around Central Vietnam
• Itinerary Days 1-3: Danang
• Itinerary Day 4: Hoi An
• Itinerary Day 5: Hue
• Itinerary Days 6-7: Free Time to Explore Other Areas

* Disclaimer: Headed to Vietnam? This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

Vietnam Visa Information 

Visitors will need to check in advance if they need to apply for a visa . Visas are not available on arrival as you need to have an approval letter to enter. Check this list to see if e-Visa is available for your country.

If you’re a U.S. citizen, you can apply for a single entry e-Visa which will expedite your entrance through immigration. It’ll take at least 1 week to process your e-Visa. 

**At the time of publishing, Vietnam has not opened its borders to international tourists. We will continue to monitor the situation and update this itinerary accordingly. 

When to Go to Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam has two seasons to consider – dry and wet.  

The dry season is from January to August and the weather is very hot and humid. Temperatures are in the mid 30 °C (86°F and above ). There is some occasional rain, as we’ve been caught in the rain during our visit to Danang in May, but it doesn’t last all day.  

The wet, rainy season is from September to November. The rain tends to be heavier and prone to flooding so you may want to avoid these months. 

Find the right time to visit Central Vietnam so you can enjoy these beaches in Danang. Photo credit: saiko3p via Depositphotos.com

If you’re starting your Vietnam trip from either Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or other areas, the easiest way to get to Danang is to take a domestic flight to Danang International Airport (airport code: DAD). It’s a major international airport in the country. 

The flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Danang takes 1.5 hours one-way, while from Hanoi, it’s 1 hour and 20 minutes. Check out the flight deals on Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, or Bamboo Airways. 

International flights are also available to Danang International Airport. Examples of cities that depart to Danang are:

• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia  
• Seoul – Incheon and Busan, South Korea
• Hong Kong and Macau, China

Click here to see the list of airlines that fly to Danang. 

How to Travel Around Central Vietnam 

Once you arrive in Danang, you can take a taxi or take a Grab car or motorbike to your destination. Grab is a popular ride-hailing app in Southeast Asia and one of the best apps to use when you’re traveling around Vietnam .

If you know how to ride a motorbike, you can also consider renting one for a few days. Remember to wear a helmet and drive slowly. We wouldn’t want you to get pulled over by the police for speeding and then you have to give “coffee money” (also as a bribe) as payment. 

Hiring a private driver is also an option for longer distances. 

Check out our Vietnam transportation guide to learn more tips. 

Central vietnam itinerary – days 1-3: danang.

We’re starting the itinerary in Danang ( Đà Nẵng in Vietnamese) as it’s the fifth-largest city in Vietnam. It’s a popular place to visit as you have access to clean beaches, gorgeous views of the oceans, and conveniently located to other historical sites in the area. 

Since there are plenty of attractions to visit, we recommend that you spend 3 days in Danang. While we’re providing a snapshot of the top attractions to visit in Danang, check out our in-depth Danang 3 days itinerary to learn more. 

How to Get to Danang City Center from the Airport

Once you land, head through immigration if you’re traveling from an international airline. Afterward, catch a taxi or Grab car and head to your accommodations to drop off your luggage. The airport is located in the center of the city so it’ll take about 15-20 minutes by car to travel within the city. 

What to Do in Danang 

1. head to the beaches and relax all day long ..

You’re on vacation so it’s time to veg out! Two popular beaches are My Khe and Non Nuoc . They are clean and have fine beige sand. There is plenty of space for you to relax under the umbrellas and lawn chairs. Just remember to stay hydrated as the weather can be HOT.  

2. Visit the two amusement parks – Ba Na Hills and Danang Wonders.

Ba Na Hills is a must-visit as it’s a European-inspired theme park located on top of a hill. It has the famous Golden Bridge (also referred to as Golden Hands Bridge), the two stone hands holding up a golden bridge. There are also shows, rides, games, and other fun entertainment activities.  It’s recommended to buy your tickets in advance here .

Check out our Ba Na Hills guide on how to visit this place. 

Here is the famous Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills with fewer crowds. Photo taken around 7:40am.

Another theme park to visit is Danang Wonders and is suited for those who love roller coasters and rides. You may notice a large Ferris Wheel illuminating in the middle of the city at night, and this is where the park is located. The park focuses on Asian countries so you can visit Singapore, Cambodia, Thailand, Japan, and more. It’s a smaller scale of Disney World’s Epcot. 

Read our Danang Wonders guide for more travel tips. 

3. check out the free evening show at the dragon bridge ..

You’ll see the dragon breathing fire for a few minutes. The show occurs on Saturday and Sunday at 9:00pm. 

4. Shop and eat street food at Son Tra Night Market.

This is the go-to spot after watching the show at the Dragon Bridge. Eat your way through the market or buy souvenirs here. 

5. Take a short hike up Marble Mountains to see gorgeous views of the landscape and the city.

Marble Mountains comprises five elements – water, metal, earth, fire, and wood, and the main mountain is water. You can either walk up the mountain for some exercise or take the elevator. At the top of the mountain, check out the other mountains based on the elements from the Sea Watching Tower and walk through caves and pagodas.

Since this place is south of Danang, you can visit this place before heading to Hoi An. 

Mable Mountains is a must-see attraction to visit when you’re in Danang

Danang Accommodations

Danang has plenty of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts to suit all budgets. 

If you want the stay next to or within walking distance to the beach, it’s recommended that you stay in My Khe area. Also, note that the resorts are spread out so you may need to take a taxi or Grab car if you want to head to the touristy areas for food and shopping.

Check out where to stay in Danang here. 

Central Vietnam Itinerary – Day 4: Hoi An

On your fourth day in Central Vietnam, we’re headed to Hoi An ( Hội An ). It’s one of the best places to visit in Central Vietnam. Hoi An is a former trade port city due to the Thu Bon River flowing through the Ancient Town (also referred to as Old Town) area. Currently, it’s a picturesque area with architectural influences from Asian and European countries. Plus, this city was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999. 

Since the area is small, we’re spending one full day here. If you want to spend more time in this quaint area, you can consider spending 2-3 days visiting beaches and Cham Islands .

How to Get to Hoi An from Danang

Hoi An is 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) away from Danang, so it’ll take 40 minutes to arrive there by car or taxi. You can also take a Grab car or hire a private driver to get to Hoi An. Since this city is close by, you can either take a day trip from Danang or spend the night in Hoi An. 

What to Do in Hoi An

1. wander around the ancient town ..

It’s a walkable area as vehicles are not allowed. You’ll find endless streets filled with buildings painted in vibrant yellow and other colors, boutique shops selling artwork, handicrafts, jewelry, and clothes. Other attractions include the Phuoc Kien Pagoda, Museum of Folk Culture Museum, and traditional houses. 

There is a fee of 120,000 VND to walk around the Ancient Town and to access 6 local sites.  You can purchase this ticket at the kiosks around the Ancient Town.

If you’re short on time, consider taking a walking tour of the area.  

Hoi An’s Ancient Town is a must visit during your Central Vietnam itinerary. Photo credit: efired via Depositphotos.com

2. Take a photo of the iconic Japanese bridge.

The bridge was built in 1719 and by Japanese merchants living in the area to connect between the former Japanese and Chinese areas. crowded throughout the day. The bridge isn’t long as you can walk across it in 30 seconds, yet it gets crowded with people throughout the day. If you prefer to not have crowds in your photo, then you’ll need to get to Hoi An early in the morning. 

3. Shop till you drop!

From beautiful silk lanterns to the fruit Hawaiian shirts and dresses, you’re bound to buy unique and practical souvenirs for yourself, family members, and friends. Check out the evening night markets for more souvenir items. Don’t forget to bargain at the night markets!

Hoi An is the perfect place to go souvenir shopping.

4. Get tailored clothes and shoes in Hoi An.

If you have difficulties with finding formal suits, dress pants, or dresses, consider getting tailored clothes. There are hundreds of tailors to choose from in Ancient Town so you can visit various tailors to compare materials and pricing. You may even consider getting an ao dai ( áo dài ), a traditional Vietnamese outfit. 

Tip: You’ll need at least 2-3 days to get your clothes made due to the multiple fittings. You may consider extending your stay in Hoi An so the tailor doesn’t feel rushed with completing your clothes. 

Hoi An Accommodations

If you plan to stay in Hoi An for the evening, there are many affordable guesthouses to choose from around the Ancient Town area.

Check out where to stay in Hoi An here. 

Central Vietnam Itinerary – Day 5: Hue 

Hue ( Huế ) is the former capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. If you love learning history and seeing the lifestyle of the former Nguyen Dynasty, then you’ll enjoy visiting Hue. There are many incredible architectures and monuments to admire here so you’ll need to maximize your 1 day in Hue. 

How to Get to Hue from Danang or Hoi An

One of the exciting ways to get from Danang to Hue is to take a motorbike tour of the Hai Van Pass . The route is 21 kilometers (13 miles) that is full of windy roads and gorgeous landscapes along the way.  If you decide to take the tour, you’ll need to extend your day in Hue as this is an all-day tour.

From Hoi An to Hue, it’s recommended to hire a car . 

What to Do in Hue

1. explore the imperial city..

This is the most famous landmark of Hue as it’s a UNESCO recognized area. The Imperial City is a 4-sided walled area that is surrounded by a moat. The citadel area has a Purple Forbidden City that is similar to Beijing’s Forbidden City. The Forbidden City is where the Emperor and his family and colleagues lived and worked.

Outside the Forbidden City, there are plenty of beautiful pagodas, gates, and architecture to admire. Our featured photo is of the Hien Nhon Gate (East gate) that leads to the Imperial City.

You can spend hours exploring the Imperial City so you’ll need some good walking shoes. You can walk around on your own but it’s recommended taking a tour for more historical context . 

2. Visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, also known as the Celestial Lady Pagoda .

This 7-story Buddhist pagoda was built in 1601. You can walk around the pagoda and also check out the views of the Perfume River. There is free admission so you can visit at any time of the day.  

When visiting Hue, add Thien Mu Pagoda to your itinerary.

3. Visit Khai Dinh Tomb.

Khai Dinh was the 12th emperor and had this place built from 1920 to 1931. He worked closely with the French government so the design of his tomb has Vietnamese and French influences. 

Khai Dinh Tomb is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Hue. The complex has multi-tiers so it requires some stair climbing. 

Tip: You’ll need to climb over 100 stairs to get to the first tier of the complex. If you have knee problems, it’s best to avoid this place as there aren’t any escalators.  

The top tier, also known as the Thien Dinh Palace, has mosaic artwork on the walls made out of ceramic and porcelain. The artwork is bright, colorful, a bit gaudy at times, but captivating to look at. You can also check out the life-size statue of Khai Dinh. 

Khai Dinh Tomb is a unique place to visit when you’re in Hue.

4. Eat delicious street food.

Check out the foods that originated from Hue, such as steamed rice cakes ( bánh bèo ) and beef noodle soup ( bún bò Huế ). If you’re not sure where to go, take this walking street food tour.  

Hue Accommodations

Hue has various guesthouses and hotels to consider depending on your budget. 

Check out where to stay in Hue here. 

Central Vietnam Itinerary – Day 6-7: Departure or Free Time to Visit Other Cities 

It’s your last two days in Central Vietnam. Depending on your itinerary, you can either return to Danang from Hue and catch your departing flight or consider visiting other areas of Central Vietnam. 

1. Ly Son Island 

Ly Son Island ( Đảo Lý Sơn ) is one of Vietnam’s hidden gems as it’s not visited by foreign tourists. For now, the island is quiet and has a calm ambiance. The infrastructure is growing to develop tourism in the future.  

This island is known for growing Ly Son garlic which is small, white bulbs that have a mild flavor. Plus, they are grown in volcanic soil. Other fun attractions to do on Ly Son Island is to snorkel, ride a motorbike around the island, and hike Gieng Tien Mountain. 

To get to Ly Son Island from Danang, you’ll need to travel to Quang Ngai’s Sa Ky Port. It’ll take 2.5 hours (160 kilometers / 99 miles) by car or 2 hours by train. Once you arrive at the port, take a speedboat to the island. 

Check out our Ly Son Island guide for more information.  

When visiting Ly Son Island, check out the garlic fields along the road.

2. Quy Nhon  

Want more beach time in addition to what you had in Danang? Head to Quy Nhon ( Quy Nhơn or Qui Nhơn). It’s a low-key city and not as touristy compared to the other cities that you visited earlier in the itinerary. 

There are many beaches to lounge around, historical landmarks such as the Cham Towers, amazing seafood, and other fun activities to spend a few days here. We recommend that you visit Ky Co Beach for clean beaches and snorkeling opportunities. 

Read our things to do in Quy Nhon post for more ideas on what to do here.

To get to Quy Nhon from Danang, it’s recommended to take the bus for 8 hours, train for 6 hours, or to take a domestic flight to Phu Cat Airport (airport code: UIH). Driving would be the fastest way as it’ll take over 4 hours. 

Quy Nhon Beach is a popular beach for tourists and locals to visit.

3. Phong Nha  

Phong Nha is the go-to place for adventure seekers. The main draw is visiting the Phong Nha Ke Be National Park and to see the famous caves and limestone formations , such as Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave.

Son Doong Cave is considered the largest cave in the world. The tour to explore this cave is expensive and costs over $3,000 USD per person as only one company is allowed to operate the tour. 

An alternative is to explore Hang En Cave , the third-largest cave in the world. It’s also a memorable hiking trail to experience in Vietnam ! The cost of this trekking tour is more reasonable and starts at $330 per person. We went on this tour and had a fantastic experience.

Check out other caves to explore here .  

Plan to spend a minimum of 2 days on your Phong Nha itinerary going on adventures. You can also spend a day riding a bicycle or a motorbike to explore Bong Lai Valley , a rural place from Phong Nha town.

To get to Phong Nha from Danang, it’s recommended to take a domestic flight to Dong Hoi Airport (airport code: VDH). It’ll take 4 hours since it stops in either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Or, you can take a train from Dong Hoi City or a sleeper bus that’ll take 5 hours. 

Phong Nha Cave is a fantastic place to visit in Phong Nha.

Final Thoughts on the 1 Week Central Vietnam Itinerary

Whew! Your trip planning to Central Vietnam has come to an end. We hope you enjoyed reading about what to do in Central Vietnam in 7 days.  After you visit, we hope you’ve made some awesome memories of the people, culture, and landscape. Let us know in the comments what made your Vietnam trip memorable. 

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Featured photo credit: efired via Depositphotos.com

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I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

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Great information. I am planning a trip for next year. Although I was thinking to give Hoi An and Hue at least 2 days each 🙂 Will probably take a train to get from one to the other.

Thanks for checking out our Central Vietnam post. Hoi An and Hue are lovely places to visit. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about Central Vietnam.

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7 Best Places to Visit in Central Vietnam 2024

• Updated: April 19, 2024 Chi Nguyen in Beautiful Vietnam , Best of Vietnam 2 comments.

The list of 7 most attractive places to visit in Central Vietnam

• Central Vietnam Stopover: Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An in 4 Days
• South and Central Vietnam Vacation for Family in 11 Days
• Central and South Vietnam Beach Resorts in 10 Days

1. Quang Binh

Quang Binh province is well known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site – Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park.

• Phong Nha Ke Bang

This place preserves the most ancient karst mountains in Asia. Phong Nha – Ke Bang is the home to more than 300 cave and grotto systems. Some spectacular caves for your adventure are Phong Nha Cave, Tien Son Cave, Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave), Tu Lan Cave, Hang En and notably Son Doong Cave . Explored by geologists of the British Cave Research Association in 2009, Hang Son Doong was recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest natural cave in the world. The combination of limestone rocks, jungles, rivers and waterfalls makes Phong Nha – Ke Bang mesmerizing and magnificent.

As  an ancient city with a long history, Hue is a destination you should not miss when you visit Central Vietnam.  Situated along the banks of the Perfume River (Huong River), Hue is known as one of the most poetic and dreamy cities in Vietnam.

The Ancient Capital – Hue

Hue is home to the World Heritage site: Complex of Hue Monuments. Visiting this place, it is advisable that you spend your time in the Imperial Citadel, Tombs of the Emperors and Thien Mu Pagoda, the ‘symbol’ of Hue. Don’t hesitate to explore during the day to immerse yourself in this dreamy city, or discover the rich cuisine of Hue. 

Moreover, if you want to find a ‘getaway’, Thuan An Beach and Lang Co Beach will satisfy you with its long stretch of white sand and romantic scenery. From here, you can admire the beautiful landscapes of the sea, mountains, islands and delicious seafood.

3. Da Nang and Hoian

Da Nang is halfway between the north and the south of Vietnam. As an important port city of our country, it is the combination of  traditional culture with modern development.

My Khe Beach – Da Nang

Da Nang is the destination for a perfect beach vacation. My Khe Beach is notable for stunning scenery, beautiful resorts, surfing and other water sports. In addition to My Khe Beach, this city offers a range of other notable attractions such as Marble Mountains, Dragon Bridge, Han River Bridge, and Ba Na Hill. Food enthusiasts can explore the delicious street food at night markets.

A trip to the Central region would be incomplete without visiting Hoian ancient town.

Hoian Old Town

25 kilometers from Da Nang, Hoian offers the perfect blend of old-world charm and serene coastal relaxation. With its traditional wooden architecture, picturesque narrow streets, unique shops and numerous exquisite yellow houses, Hoian has become an ideal destination for those seeking a nostalgic travel experience. At the same time, you will be surprised as lanterns, one of Hoian’s traditional crafts, are everywhere and add a gorgeous aspect to this city.

Explore: Travel Tips and Things to Do at Hoi An Lantern Festival

4. Buon Ma Thuot

Located in the Central Highlands, Buon Ma Thuot is still an off-the-beaten-track place which is not developed in tourism yet. Therefore, this town is suitable for exploring pristine nature and excursion activities. Dray Nur and Drap Sap waterfalls cannot be missed on your trip. More over, Buon Me Thuot is the capital of coffee in Vietnam and you can easily buy some.

Yok Don National Park

40 kilometers from Buon Me Thuot, Yok Don National Park in Don Village is the largest National Park in Vietnam. This is a 115,000-hectare dry deciduous forest with a diverse biosystem. Yok Don National Park offers various activities for visitors, including elephant experiences, birdwatching, trekking, camping, and boat trips on the Serepok River.

5. Nha Trang

Nha Trang is proudly at the top of tourists’ minds when it comes to beach vacations in Vietnam . Crystal-clear beach, beautiful white sand and warm water – Nha Trang is a pearl of Central Vietnam.

Nha Trang – A great destination to travel to Vietnam with toddlers

Nha Trang City Beach is the highlight of this city. There are a lot of hotels, resorts, restaurants and bars in the city center. Many sport activities such as diving and snorkeling are available. If you go further, the beaches are more pristine and private, for example, Doc Let Beach in Ninh Hoa village or Binh Hung, Binh Lap islands in Cam Ranh Bay. Po Nagar Temple, a famous Cham temple, is also worth visiting so that you can pray for your family’s health and peace.

Endowed with picturesque landscape and cool year-round, Da Lat is such a paradise for lovers and suitable for your honeymoon vacation in Vietnam . This city is a wonderful place to visit in Central Vietnam with full of French colonial architecture and surrounded by pines and flowers. There are several stunning scenes and buildings that visitors should consider: Ho Xuan Huong River, Da Lat Train Station, Valley of Love, Bao Dai Palace, Lang Biang mountain, Thien Vien Truc Lam monastery, Lake of Sighs, Tuyet Lam lake, etc. Da Lat Market is an ideal place for tourists to purchase local specialties (fruits, jam, vegetables) as well as enjoy cheap street food such as bánh tráng (kind of Vietnamese version for pizza), avocado ice cream and banh can (small round pancake).

Explore: Top 10 Things to Do in Da Lat

Less popular than Nha Trang, Mui Ne (Phan Thiet) is home to kitesurfing and windsurfing activities. You will find a lot of kites flying in the sky during Mui Ne’s peak season, from May to August. Don’t worry if you don’t know how to surf, there are several surf schools which offer modern equipment for you.

For swimmers, Ganh Beach, Suoi Nuoc Beach and Rang Beach are your places. Along the shoreline, you’ll find numerous street vendors selling an array of seafood, fruits, and refreshing beverages . You can buy something to quench your thirst after a long hour of swimming. In addition, sand surfing in White Sand Dunes and Red Sand Dunes is a once-in-a-lifetime experience in this beautiful beach city.

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Start planning your tailor-made Vietnam tour by contacting one of our specialists…

• buon ma thuot

My name is Linh Chi, a true beach lover. My passion is to explore off-the-beaten-track destinations in Vietnam and introduce our S-shaped country's culture and beautiful scenery to friends all around the world.

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Destinations: 6

Travel time (hr): 14+

Transportation costs (USD): 110+

Total cost (USD): 450+

Itinerary details

Things to do : War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Skydeck, Cu Chi Tunnels, Bui Vien Street.

Ho Chi Minh City   → Nha Trang :

• Transportation: Train
• Travel time: 8 hr 30 min
• Fare: 300,000 VND

Things to do : Nha Trang Beach, Hon Tre Island, Po Nagar Cham Towers, Long Son Pagoda.

Nha Trang → Da Nang :

• Transportation: Plane (Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Pacific Airlines, and Bamboo Airways)
• Flying time: 1 hr 5 min
• Airfare: 800,000 – 1,200,000 VND

Things to do : Ba Na Hills, My Khe Beach, Marble Mountains, Museum of Cham Sculpture.

Da Nang → Hoi An :

• Transportation: Bus (01)
• Travel time: 45 min
• Fare: 30,000 VND

Things to do : Hoi An Ancient Town, An Bang Beach, Bay Mau Coconut Forest.

From Hoi An, you take bus 01 back to  Da Nang  to fly to  Van Don Airport  (Quang Ninh).

• Flying time: 1 hr 20 min

Ha Long Bay

You take bus 14A or 14B to get to Ha Long Bay from Van Don Airport (free).

Things to do : Ha Long Bay, Bai Chay Beach, Tuan Chau Island.

Ha Long Bay → Hanoi :

• Transportation: Bus (Trung Thanh Limousine)
• Travel time: 1 hr 30 min
• Fare: 260,000 VND

Things to do : Hanoi Old Quarter, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, Dong Xuan Market, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ta Hien Street.

To reach Noi Bai International Airport from Hanoi city center and complete your 10-day itinerary in Vietnam, you can take bus number 86 for a fare of 35,000 VND.

A few notes

• The exchange rate for USD to VND in 2023 is approximately 1 USD to 23,500 VND.
• Please note that the travel time listed for each leg of the journey does not include airport check-in time. We recommend booking flights in advance to take advantage of lower prices.
• For train travel, we recommend booking tickets through the official website of the Vietnam Railway Corporation at dsvn.vn . This will ensure that you get the most up-to-date schedule information and the best prices.
• The recommendations for tours, hotels, bus operators, and airlines provided above are selected based on their suitability for travelers, with no advertising or affiliate marketing. You can rest assured that these suggestions will meet your needs.
• Although ten days may not be enough to fully explore Vietnam, we have selected the country’s most famous places to ensure that you have an unforgettable experience.

10 days in Vietnam costs

For an average expenditure of $450, many tourists can cover basic expenses for a 10-day trip to Vietnam. Here are some estimated fixed costs:

• Transportation costs around $110, depending on the types of transportation used.
• Accommodation in a private hotel or homestay costs about $15-$20 per person per night. Solo travelers may find hostels to be a more economical option at around $5 per night.
• Food expenses are estimated at around $15 per person per day, though this can vary depending on where and what you eat.
• Entrance fees for monuments and tourist attractions are generally between $1 and $5 per ticket, though prices may vary depending on the specific site.

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Vietnam Tourist Maps

Vietnam Tourist Maps and Travel Maps of all regions: Northern, Central, South Vietnam. All Vietnam city travel maps. The Vietnam Tourist Maps Map includes some most famous travel destinations in Vietnam such as Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Da Lat, Mui Ne, Ho Chi Minh City, and Mekong Delta.

Northern Vietnam:

Northern Vietnam is divided into two parts: Northeast and Northwest. This region possesses a temperate climate with four seasons. It is sultry in summers and bitterly cold in winters as the temperature may drop to 0 degrees Celsius in the mountainous areas. Bear in mind that there may be typhoons between July and September in the Northern mountainous region, so carefully if you want to travel to Sa Pa or Ha Giang during this time. Some must-see places in the North Vietnam: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, and Ha Giang

Central Vietnam:

The central part of Vietnam is endowed with beautiful coastline with crystal-clear water, golden sand and clear sky for your perfect beach vacation in Vietnam. Central Vietnam has two seasons: wet and dry season and you may experience heavy downpours from September to January. The Central Highlands, including Da Lat and Buon Ma Thuot, is cooler all year-round. Da Nang is the economic and cultural hub of this region. You cannot miss Hoi An, the ancient town which is 30 kilometers from Da Nang when traveling to Central Vietnam . Other travel destinations of this region are Phong Nha, Hue, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, and Da Lat.

South Vietnam:

Southern Vietnam has warm weather all year-round with the average temperature of 26-28 degrees Celsius. This region has two seasons: rainy and dry and it will rain from May to the early November. Despite high temperature, the summer here is not as humid as it is in the North and there is no chilly winter in the south. Southeastern Vietnam includes Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, Binh Phuoc, Ba Ria – Vung Tau, Dong Nai, and Tay Ninh. Southwestern Vietnam, also known as the Mekong Delta region, includes 13 provinces: Can Tho, Ben Tre, An Giang, Hau Giang, Tien Giang, Ca Mau, Dong Thap, Long An, Vinh Long, Soc Trang, Tra Vinh, Bac Lieu, and Ca Mau.

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Vietnam Travel Map for Travelers: Vietnam Destinations useful for your trips 2024

Indeed, Vietnam is a long and narrow country, some travelers may have difficulty preparing for their trip to Vietnam. That’s why our general tourist map of Vietnam is designed to provide you with information about the most interesting destinations.

Vietnam Travel Map

Vietnam is located on the Indochina Peninsula in Southeast Asia and shares borders with Laos, Cambodia, China. It is bordered by the Gulf of Tonkin, and the East Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. The territory has an area of 331,000 km2 and includes 3,260 km of maritime border and 4,200 km2 of territorial waters.

Vietnam is known to have a tropical monsoon-influenced climate. During the same period of the year, you can experience significant climate changes from north to south, 4 seasons in the north and 2 seasons (dry and rainy) in the center and south. We recommend that you pay attention to good weather and good deals when planning a Vietnam tour .

Vietnam Tourist Map

Vietnam has a lot to offer and can be an incredible destination thanks to its lush landscapes, culture and endless variety. If you make the trip, you’ll want to explore the mountains of the northern region, feel the heat of the central desert areas, or relax on some of the tropical seas or islands in the South.

Ha Long Bay is a must-see with its deep history, legends and natural beauty. Immersive tours in this UNESCO World Heritage Site are available for those who want a truly unforgettable adventure. A visit to the ancient citadel will take you back in time. Then discover the life of silk villages, forgotten temples, organic farms and floating markets. Discover breathtaking landscapes: waterfalls, mountain ranges, oceans and fine sands, many craft villages,…

Vietnam’s location makes it a popular tourist destination, and this map provides various details on some of the country’s most popular stops. You can find information about Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and many other popular destinations.

Northern Vietnam tourist map

Northern Vietnam can be divided into two parts: the northeast and the northwest. This region is located in a temperate climate with four seasons, where it can be very hot in summer and very cold in winter, as the temperature can drop to 0 degrees Celsius in mountainous areas. Keep in mind that there can be typhoons between July and September in the northern highlands, so be careful if you want to travel to Sapa or Ha Giang during this time.

Northern Vietnam is a dazzling land of natural wonders waiting to be explored. The natural beauty and cultural heritage of the country are impressive and unforgettable. From rice terraces in the plains to towering mountains in the north, turquoise islands and beautiful hill tribes, this region has something for everyone. During your trip to North Vietnam , you can participate in various activities that will help you learn more about the culture and history. You will also have the opportunity to see the architectural marvels of a country that has been around for a long time.

Destinations not to be missed in North Vietnam area: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau and Ha Giang.

Northeastern Vietnam

Most of the country’s minority tribes live in the northern region. The Northeast is made up of these provinces: Tuyen Quang, Thai Nguyen, Phu Tho, Quang Ninh, Ha Giang and Cao Bang, Bac Kan, Bac Giang, Hanoi, Hai Phong.

Northwestern Vietnam

The Northwest Vietnam includes provinces such as Son La, Lai Chau, Yen Bai, Hoa Binh, Lao Cai and Dien Bien.

Central Vietnam tourist map

Central Vietnam has a beautiful coastline and there are two seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The best time for your seaside stay would be from September to March. 

In central Vietnam, west of a narrow coastal strip and east of a mountain range, are the Central Highlands, including Da Lat and Buon Ma Thuot.

Central Vietnam map

Da Nang is the economic and cultural center of this region. Hoi An which has French period architecture is just a bit north of Da Nang. If you are planning a trip to central Vietnam , definitely visit these two places. Moreover, you can travel to Hue to see the ancient temples. You can also go to Mui Ne and explore the vast beaches. There are many other places to visit like Da Lat which has lush vegetation and hills.

Central Highlands

The Central Highlands (Tay Nguyen in Vietnamese) is a strange and backward region in Vietnam, little known to foreigners. This region includes 5 provinces: Kon Tum, Dak Lak, Gia Lai, Dak Nong and Lam Dong. One of the coolest places to explore in Vietnam is Buon Ma Thuot. It is the biggest coffee producing region in Vietnam and and it is sure that you will get the best coffee when you visit this place.

South Vietnam tourist map

Southern Vietnam enjoys an average of 26 to 28 degrees Celsius all year round and has only two seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. It will rain for about 6 months, from May to early November. Despite the high temperature, the summer here is not as humid as the northern one, and there are no cold winters in this region.

On your trip to South Vietnam , you can visit Ho Chi Minh City with its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches in Vung Tau and the exciting Mekong Delta, which is Vietnam’s most cultivated area outside the delta. of the Red River.

Southern Vietnam map

The Southeast region of Vietnam consists of Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, Binh Phuoc, Ba Ria Vung Tau, Dong Nai and Tay Ninh. The southwest, also known as the Mekong Delta, includes 13 provinces: Ben Tre, Can Tho, An Giang, Tien Giang, Hau Giang, Ca Mau, Dong Thap, Long An, Soc Trang, Vinh Long, Tra Vinh, Bac Lieu.

Hanoi City Travel Map

Hanoi is such a fascinating city, both traditional Vietnamese charm on traditional architecture, as well as western influences. Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter are the two must-see attractions in Hanoi.

You can see how people live and see the old houses of one of the oldest cities in China. You can have an authentic experience with a rickshaw tour around the Old Quarter. There are many colonial relics in Hanoi worth admiring. The city has several museums with a variety of artifacts and collections, including the famous National Museum of Fine Arts of Vietnam, Museum of Ethnology, Vietnam Military History Museum, and Hanoi University of Technology.

Moreover, it incorporates typical Vietnamese culinary elements. Be sure to try “Pho” (a traditional noodle soup) as well as “Bun Cha” (a popular dish), while looking for some cultural souvenirs.

Ho Chi Minh City Tourist Map

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s most vibrant and bustling city, making it the perfect destination for history buffs. During your stay, you will have the opportunity to explore our colonial past. The Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, Vietnam History Museum, Notre Dame de Saigon Cathedral, Central Post Office and Opera House are just a few places you should not miss. For shopping lovers, don’t forget to come to the Ben Thanh market and other shopping centers!

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