Central Vietnam Highlights 7 days

Upon your arrival at Da Nang International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your English-speaking guide. After a brief introduction, you’ll enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel.

Once you check in, take some time to unwind and refresh after your journey. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your leisure. You might consider visiting the nearby My Khe Beach, known for its stunning coastline, or taking a leisurely stroll along the Han River, where you can enjoy the scenic views and vibrant atmosphere.

Tour guide: English-speaking guide

Meals: N/A

After breakfast, begin your day with a deep dive into the culture, history, and natural beauty of Da Nang.

Start at Han Market, a bustling local hub where you can experience authentic Vietnamese daily life. Wander through colorful stalls filled with fresh produce, local snacks, handmade souvenirs, and textiles. It’s the perfect spot to pick up some gifts or sample regional street food.

Next, visit the Cham Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Cham sculptures.

• Explore centuries-old sandstone statues, altars, and artifacts.

• Learn about the ancient Champa Kingdom, its Hindu influences, and its significance in Central Vietnam’s history.

Continue to the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills named after the five elements.

• Climb the stone steps to visit ancient pagodas, hidden grottoes, and hilltop viewpoints offering sweeping views of Da Nang.

• Discover Am Phu Cave, known as the “Hell Cave”, filled with dramatic statues and symbolic Buddhist imagery depicting the journey through the afterlife.

In the evening, head to the city’s modern icon: the Dragon Bridge.

• This impressive structure spans the Han River and is shaped like a golden dragon—a symbol of power and prosperity in Vietnamese culture.

• On weekends and holidays at 9 PM, watch as the dragon breathes fire and water, an unforgettable spectacle that lights up the night sky and draws crowds of excited visitors.

Wrap up your day with dinner at a riverside restaurant or nearby café, enjoying the lively atmosphere and views of the illuminated city.

Tour-guide: English Speaking Guide 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel and take the morning to relax or explore Da Nang at your own pace. You might choose to stroll along My Khe Beach, visit a local café, or indulge in a spa treatment.

Optional: Full-Day Excursion to Hue
For those interested in history and culture, consider an enriching day trip to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Your journey begins with a scenic drive over the Hai Van Pass, offering panoramic views of the coastline and lush mountains.

In Hue, explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks:

Tu Duc Tomb – Wander through the peaceful, poetic grounds of this royal mausoleum, built for Emperor Tu Duc. It reflects traditional Vietnamese architecture blended with natural landscapes.

Imperial Citadel – Step inside the walled fortress and palace complex, once the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. Discover ancient gates, temples, and the royal throne hall.

Huong (Perfume) River Cruise – Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the tranquil river, passing historic pagodas and countryside scenery. This scenic cruise offers a peaceful glimpse into life along the riverbanks.

After a culturally rich day, return to Da Nang in the evening, with time to unwind and reflect on your journey.

** Contact us for more details for this Hue day trip

Hue Day Trip for optional

After breakfast, embark on a short drive to Cam Thanh Coconut Village, located just outside Hoi An. This charming area is known for its peaceful waterways and dense nipa palm forests. Here, you’ll enjoy a fun and interactive basket boat ride, a traditional round boat used by local fishermen.

• Navigate through the coconut-lined canals, guided by a local rower who may even show off some spinning tricks or teach you how to paddle.

• Learn about the village’s history and how it played a role during the Vietnam War as a shelter for resistance forces.

• Try your hand at traditional fishing techniques or crafting items from palm leaves.

After this refreshing adventure, continue to the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a guided walking tour through one of Vietnam’s most picturesque and well-preserved trading ports.

Highlights of the walking tour include:

• Japanese Covered Bridge – An iconic 17th-century wooden bridge with a small temple inside, symbolizing Hoi An’s multicultural past.

• Ancient Houses – Visit homes that have stood for over 200 years, showcasing a blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architectural influences.

• Fujian Assembly Hall – A colorful temple built by the Chinese community, dedicated to the goddess of the sea.

• Local Market – Stroll through a lively market offering fresh produce, handicrafts, and street food.

As the sun sets, Hoi An transforms into a magical lantern-lit town. Conclude your day with a delicious Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps sampling Hoi An specialties like cao lau, white rose dumplings, or com ga (chicken rice).

Enjoy a relaxing evening soaking in the beauty and charm of Hoi An.

After breakfast, set off on a half-day excursion to the My Son Sanctuary, one of Vietnam’s most important historical and religious sites. Nestled in a lush valley surrounded by mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the spiritual center of the Champa Kingdom.

At My Son, you’ll:

• Explore red brick temple ruins dating from the 4th to the 13th century, many adorned with intricate carvings and symbolic sculptures.

• Learn about Cham culture and Hindu influences, as your guide shares insights into the architecture, mythology, and the site’s significance.

• Witness the contrast between ancient ruins and surrounding jungle, creating a mystical atmosphere perfect for photography and reflection.

After returning to Hoi An around midday, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. You might:

• Wander through the lantern-lit alleys of the Old Town.

• Relax at a riverside café or indulge in a spa treatment.

• Visit a tailor shop to have custom clothing made.

• Shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs at charming boutiques.

As evening falls, enjoy dinner at your own pace—perhaps revisiting a favorite restaurant or trying a new dish in the culinary-rich streets of Hoi An.

Tour guide: English Speaking Guide on board 

Meals: Breakfast

Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace in Hoi An. Whether you prefer to unwind or dive deeper into local experiences, the day is open for you to explore or simply relax.

Suggested ways to spend your free day:

• Relax at An Bang or Cua Dai Beach, where soft sands and gentle waves offer the perfect escape.

• Revisit Hoi An’s Ancient Town to explore hidden gems, quaint cafés, or boutique shops.

• Take a leisurely bike ride through the countryside, passing rice paddies, water buffalo, and charming local villages.

Optional: Day Tour to Ba Na Hills & the Golden Bridge
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, consider an optional day trip to Ba Na Hills, a spectacular mountain resort located near Da Nang.

Tour highlights include:

A ride on the Ba Na Hills cable car, one of the longest and highest in the world, with breathtaking views of the mountains and forest.

A visit to the Golden Bridge, the iconic pedestrian bridge held aloft by giant stone hands, offering unforgettable photo opportunities.

Time to explore the French Village, Fantasy Park, gardens, and pagodas nestled in the mountaintop complex.

Note: Please contact us in advance if you’d like to join this tour—spaces are limited and early booking is recommended.

Tour guide: N/A 

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, check out of your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing before your airport transfer for departure. End of your tour.