Are you looking for a week-long adventure in Central Vietnam? Look no further! This travel guide will take you through the highlights of Hoi An, Hue, and the surrounding areas, ensuring you don’t miss a thing. So, grab your backpack and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey!
Day 1: Discovering the Ancient Town of Hoi An
Start your trip in Hoi An, a town famous for its three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Begin by taking a walking tour through the charming streets of the Ancient Town. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you pass by tailor houses and shoe shops adorned with colorful lanterns. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Japanese bridge and explore the beautiful Chinese pagodas. For lunch, head to the renowned Morning Glory restaurant, and for dinner, the Moon restaurant is a must-visit.
Day 2: Exploring My Son, a Marvel of Cham Civilization
If you have more than one day in Hoi An, make sure to visit My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join one of the many day trips from Hoi An to explore this historical sanctuary. Learn about the fascinating history of the Cham civilization and marvel at the well-preserved remnants of their religious structures. Remember to bring a hat and stay hydrated during the trip, especially on hot days.
Day 3: Unwind on the Eco-Friendly Cham Island
Discover the untouched beauty of Cham Island, recognized as a world biosphere reserve and known for its abundant marine and non-marine wildlife. Despite the island’s humble living conditions, the locals are incredibly hospitable. Take the opportunity to go swimming or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. To reach Cham Island, simply contact one of the tour companies in Hoi An.
Day 4: From Hoi An to Hue, Taking in the Stunning Scenery
Before leaving Hoi An, make time for some last-minute shopping and capture memorable photos. The journey from Hoi An to Hue takes around 2-3 hours and offers breathtaking views along the way. Don’t miss the chance to traverse the Hai Van Pass, admired for its natural beauty and a constant source of inspiration for artists. As you arrive in Hue, take a leisurely stroll along the Perfume River. Across Phu Xuan Bridge, you’ll find the Imperial City and Hue Citadel, where you can immerse yourself in the last traces of Vietnam’s feudal history.
Day 5: Exploring the Outskirts of Hue by Bicycle
For those seeking more physical activity, rent a bicycle and venture into the beautiful outskirts of Hue. Follow the scenic Le Loi Road until you reach Dien Bien Phu. Along the way, you’ll encounter captivating attractions such as Nam Giao Esplanade, Tu Hieu Pagoda, Tomb of Tu Duc, Tomb of Thieu Tri, and Tomb of Minh Mang, each with its own history and artistic style. If you have extra time, make a detour to Thanh Toan Village and visit the serene Thien Mu Pagoda. Don’t forget to pack some lunch for a riverside picnic or savor local delicacies at Khong Gian Xua restaurant, a favorite among locals and domestic tourists.
Day 6: Delving into Vietnam’s History at the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and Vinh Moc Tunnel
Make your Vietnam experience complete with a day trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and Vinh Moc Tunnel. This historically significant area marked the division between North and South Vietnam during the war in the 1950s-1970s. Although the dividing line no longer exists since the country’s reunification, the DMZ still holds great historical value. Most day tours from Hue to Dong Ha include a visit to the Vinh Moc Tunnel, which witnessed its own share of wartime atrocities. Return to Hue in the evening and take a peaceful walk around the Imperial City, feeling the distinct ambiance of the night. Don’t miss out on indulging your taste buds with a late-night dessert from one of the street vendors near Trang Tien Bridge. Che Hue, a delicious and nutritious dessert, is a local favorite.
Day 7: A Shopping Spree and Local Delicacies to Bring Home
Conclude your week-long adventure in Central Vietnam with a shopping spree in Hue. Here, you can find exquisite non la, the famous conical hats that symbolize Vietnam. Don’t miss the chance to purchase local handicrafts, including silk products and pottery. If you’re interested in traditional ao dai, Hue offers tailor-made options in the Imperial City. And before you leave, make sure to take some Hue specialties with you, such as Me xung (sesame candy) and keo vung (peanut brittle). These sweet snacks pair perfectly with a cup of hot lotus tea.
Now that you have a well-crafted itinerary, it’s time to explore the wonders of Central Vietnam. Click here to start planning your trip with the Travel Guide. Happy travels!