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5 Days Essential Central Vietnam with Hue and Hoi An

5 Days Essential Central Vietnam with Hue and Hoi An

By LingUpdated Jan. 23, 2024

5-Day Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An Tour

This itinerary is recommended for those whose first visit to Central Vietnam has limited days. From the grand Imperial Citadel and the impressive royal tombs in Hue to the breathtaking vistas at the Hai Van Pass, and from the limestone Marble Mountains in Da Nang to the Old Quarter in Hoi An, you will have the opportunity to see the compelling historic attractions and spectacular natural beauty of Central Vietnam.

Highlights

  • Visit the grand Imperial Citadel and royal tombs in Hue, which stand as an abiding memory of the Nguyen Dynasty.
  • Appreciate the spectacular views of the famous Hai Van Pass on the drive between Hue and Da Nang.
  • Explore the unique natural caves and ancient temples at the Marble Mountains.
  • Walk through Hoi An Ancient Town, which is filled with centuries-old architectural marvels.
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The trip was very enjoyable and comfortable.All the tour guides and drivers were very knowledgeable and courteous...We highly recommend your company and this tour to all our friends and everyone.
Jagdish Sudan, from Canada

Itinerary in detail

What you are reading here is just a sample itinerary. It shows what a first-time trip to Vietnam looks like, but you can always make it the way you want.

Day 1Hue Arrival, Vietnam

Eldora Hotel (4-star) / Indochine Palace (5-star)

Upon arrival, your private guide and driver will greet you at the airport and drive you to your hotel.

Trip note: If your arrival flight/train is in Da Nang, we can also arrange the collection from Da Nang and then transfer you to your hotel in Hue.

Day 2 Hue City Highlights Tour

Breakfast and lunch

You will discover Hue's essence: the Imperial Citadel, the Imperial City, the royal tombs, the Perfume River, and Thien Mu Pagoda.

Hue was the Vietnamese capital during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945). The Imperial Citadel was built in the 19th century and modeled on the Forbidden City in Beijing. It holds many palaces and temples inside its giant walls. Remnants of the past can still be seen inside the Imperial Citadel and the Imperial City when spending some time wandering around.

Continue to the surrounding countryside to see the final resting place of the emperors at two of the most impressive royal tombs. Take a boat trip along the Perfume River to visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda.

One pillar pagoda The Imperial Citadel

Day 3 Hue to Da Nang to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass and the Marble Mountains

Hoi An Ancient House Village Resort & Spa (4-star) / Hoi An Silk Village Resort & Spa (5-star)
breakfast and lunch

When you visit Central Vietnam, one site you can’t miss is the Hai Van Pass. It is one of the most scenic vantage points in the country. On your drive between Hue and Da Nang, you will see the Hai Van Pass surrounded by rolling hills and green valleys, offering the most spectacular views. You can have a few stops on the way to take pictures of the attractions.

Enjoy a half-day city tour by utilizing your time to cover Da Nang’s highlights: the iconic Dragon Bridge, the serene and extraordinary Cao Dai Temple, the informative Museum of Cham Sculpture, and the famous Marble Mountains. Formed by a cluster of five peaks and numerous hidden caves and tunnels inside, the Marble Mountains rise abruptly from the flat land along the coast of the East Sea. After your climb, head to your hotel in Hoi An.

Enjoy the sunset view of Halong BayThe mountain view of Hai Van Quan pass

Day 4 Half-Day Hoi An Walking Tour

breakfast and lunch

Hoi An, heavily influenced over the years by the Chinese, Japanese, and Europeans, is a city filled with cultural complexity. It was a prosperous trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries and is famed for its well-preserved architecture, pedestrian-only streets, and distinctive local cuisine.

Take your time and meander through Hoi An’s narrow lanes to uncover its highlights: the historic Japanese Covered Bridge, the memorable Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation, and the colorful local specialties market, which has stalls brimming with goods. You can also pay a talented tailor to make garments from silk there within a day or two.

The Japanese Covered BridgeThe Japanese Covered Bridge

Day 5Airport Transfer and Departure

breakfast

Your Central Vietnam trip has come to an end. Your private guide will transfer you to the airport in Da Nang for your onward flight.

Asia Highlights is more than happy to be part of your unforgettable Vietnam tour and we hope to help you again soon.

Customize the Tour According to Your Needs

This tour is very flexible. You can alter the itinerary by extending or shortening it to suit your budget, interests, and schedule.

For example, you can extend it by a few extra days to explore more surrounding areas and attractions, such as Ba Na Hills and My Son temples.

In addition to the walking tour, there are also many other interesting activities in Hoi An, such as a farming experience, a fishing experience, cycling to a nearby village, basket boat riding, kayaking, and visiting a pottery village. We can arrange the itinerary according to your interests.

Why Travel with Asia Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)

  • Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
  • Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
  • Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.
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