Central Vietnam

Explore Hue in a small group tour that spans centuries worth of Vietnamese history and heritage in one day. 

You’ll start the day with a relaxing 45 minute cruise along the Perfume River, famed for its floral aroma and stunning scenic views of Hue’s iconic temples and villages. The first stop is the iconic Thien Mu (Pagoda of the Celestial Lady). This symbolic 7-story structure was built in the early 17th century and inspired countless folktales and legends. Next, you’ll learn of the horrific history of the Hue Buddhist massacre as well as taking in a cyclo ride to see the city from a whole new angle.

Another iconic stop is the Hue Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and capital of past Nguyen emperors. The citadel has withstood the Vietnam War, the Battle of Hue, and numerous tragedies over the years. 

Next, get lost in the bustle of Dong Ba Market, one of the oldest places in Hue but still a thriving center of city commerce full of traditional Vietnamese souvenirs. After lunch, visit the must-see royal tombs of Khai Dinh and Minh Mang and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s rich heritage in famed craft villages – home to most talented Vietnamese artisans. 

Explore the natural beauty of Hue with a half-day tour of Tam Giang Lagoon Sunset. Start your journey by cruising through the peaceful countryside, passing by local villages and rice paddies. As you approach the lagoon, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with friendly local fishermen and learn about their way of life. Enjoy a delicious seafood snack and a wonderful performance of the sunset over the lagoon as you cruise. The highlight of the tour is the unforgettable view of the sun setting over the village, providing a perfect ending to your day. This tour is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the beauty of Vietnam’s natural landscapes. Don’t miss out on this unique and memorable experience.

End the evening with a stroll over the famous Dragon Bridge – if you’re there on a Saturday or Sunday be sure to stick around to watch it breathe fire! Check out Cồn Market whilst you’re there – the largest & busiest wholesale shopping venue in Da Nang.

Today, you’re heading the tourist capital of Central Vietnam, Da Nang. This former French colonial port is now a vibrant city and resort boasting beautiful beaches and some impressive cultural attractions.

First though, you’ll travel from Hue to DaNang on via the infamous 13 mile Hai Van Pass. Experience the notoriously winding roads made famous by Top Gear and panoramic views of DaNang City and the South China Sea. 

Arriving into Da Nang City for the afternoon, you’ll have some free time to explore. So whether you fancy taking a long walk on the iconic My Khe Beach, chilling out in a beach bar, or getting straight to it with a visit to the The Fifth Military Division Museum (filled with relics & photos from the Vietnam War) – the choice is yours. 

Stroll over the famous Dragon Bridge – if you’re there on a Saturday or Sunday be sure to stick around to watch it breathe fire! Check out Cồn Market whilst you’re there – the largest & busiest wholesale shopping venue in Da Nang.

Followed by

The Marble Mountains & Son Tra Peninsula Tour from Da Nang is a must-do for any traveler visiting the area. In just four hours, you will be able to take in the breathtaking views from the Marble Mountains, marvel at the intricate stone carvings at Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village, and visit the Son Tra Peninsula to see the famous Lady Buddha statue. With so much to see and do in such a short amount of time, this tour is the perfect way to experience all that this beautiful region has to offer. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to explore the natural and cultural wonders of Da Nang!

No trip to Da Nang would be complete without a chilled beach day on one of Vietnam’s most picturesque beaches. Listed as the ‘one of the most attractive beaches on the planet’ by Forbes Magazine, My Khe Beach is renowned for its 20 mile stretch of white sands, clear turquoise waters, and miami-vibed sporting activities. Locals are known to exercise & meditate there between 5-6am on the weekends – get there early to experience it for yourself!

So relax, sip on some fresh coconut water, and soak up some rays on this iconic beach once used by American troops in the Vietnam War for some R&R themselves. There’s even a handful of high-end resorts nearby should you be in need of pampering or luxury dining. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, hire a scooter and explore Son Tra Peninsula to see the Lady Buddha that’s as tall as a 30 story building. Make the most of it by going up Son Tra (Monkey) Mountain & Ban Co Peak, where you can get panoramic views over the city, Hai Van Pass, Ba Na Hills & Cham Islands. 

After a day of relaxation (or action!), end the night with a cocktail on one of the many rooftop bars overlooking the sun retiring over the East Vietnam Sea – Sky 21 Rooftop Bar is a must-visit.

After a short and sweet 1-hour coach journey down the coast, you’ll arrive in the charming town of Hoi An, the town’s former commercial port and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese and European influences, this ancient coastal town has history, beauty and endless wonders to spare (not to mention being a foodie’s haven). With it’s relaxing vibe, and lazy river lined with mustard merchant houses and endless colourful silk lanterns, it’s no surprise that Hoi An literally translates to ‘peaceful meeting place’.

Free time recommendations:

Make the most of your free time today by exploring the narrow streets of Hoi An’s Old Town. We recommend starting at the Tan Ky Family House, a two-century-old merchants residence that has literally stood the test of time (it even has markings on its courtyard wall from the height of flood falls). End up at the symbolic Japanese covered bridge, an arched pagoda built in 1593 by the Japanese to divide the town, and later reconstructed by the Chinese and Vietnamese. 

Wander over to the infamous Silk Row; once a thriving silk trading business, the success now lies within more than 600 tailor shops.  Spare some time to get a handmade silk piece for yourself. Stop by Thang Loi to watch the traditional art form of  silk-making.  

After dinner, step into the side streets and explore Hoi An’s main Night Market. Zigzag through the banana pancake carts and shuffling tour groups, to a row of stalls alight with beautiful silk lanterns. End with a beer, or a vietnamese whisky, in one of the courtyard bars hidden in the French Quarter.

Prepare to be amazed today as you visit a real hidden gem that sits above the clouds of Da Nang. This full-day guided tour will start by taking you on a journey up one of the world’s longest and highest cable car rides above the mountains, where you’ll reach the french-inspired hilltop town of Ba Na Hills.

Roam through the cobblestoned streets of the famed French Village. Once the settlement of French colonizers, the village’s Parisian-style architecture was modelled after genuine 19th Century villages of France. Visit the tranquil gardens of Le Jardin D’amour and Tinh Tam, and explore the Nui Chua Peak where a 27-metre high Buddha statue lies. 

After a tasty buffet lunch, take a walk over one of Vietnam’s newest architectural additions, the Golden Bridge. Held up by two enormous stone hands, this 150m long pedestrian bridge provides a breathtaking view of the South China Sea.

Spend some time at the Linh Ung Pagoda, one of the three pagodas that forms a solid tripod that protects DaNang City. Tour the temple complex, where a 9-story pagoda and teahouse sits 1,487 meters above sea level. Save some energy for Fantasy Park, a medieval-style amusement park that’s been dubbed as one of the most modern indoor game centers in Asia. If you’re an adrenaline-junkie, brave the Drop Tower.

Free time options: You’ll arrive back at your hotel for 5pm, so why not head to Cohibar for dinner then take a stroll to the beachfront and enjoy a cold beer in one of the luxe ocean club restaurants – Apocalypse Beach Club is our favourite!

After an epic week exploring the heart of Vietnam, it’s time to say farewell as you head back to Hue. 

Fancy sticking round to explore? Why not add on the South Vietnam Highlights package where you’ll head straight to Ho Chi Minh instead for another 8 days of action-packed adventure. Or, if you’re keen to explore the majestic wonders of the north, then the North Vietnam Highlights package is for you, where your next stop is the bustling capital of Hanoi.