Central Vietnam, featuring Hue Da Nang Hoi An, is regarded as a major tourist destination in the country. This piece will give you an all-inclusive guide, outlining a full itinerary for Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang, meant to fully experience the stunning allure of these fantastic places.
First of all, these three cities have a more laid-back vibe and are way less crowded compared to the hustle and bustle of Hanoi and Saigon. Everything is walkable and bicycle-friendly.
Distances
Hue to Da Nang: About 100 kilometers (62 miles)
Hue to Hoi An: Approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles)
Da Nang to Hoi An: Around 30 kilometers (19 miles)
Travel Times
Hue to Da Nang: 2 to 3 hours
Hue to Hoi An: 3 to 4 hours
Da Nang to Hoi An: 30 to 45 minutes
Is Hue Worth Visitting?
So, I’m gonna put this out there. Hue is the perfect hide-out. The city doesn’t get as much attention as Da Nang or Hoi An. It’s calm and quiet. There aren’t as many nightlife options. But there’s actually a lot to see.
And in my view, it’s got the coolest café scene in the country right now. But that will need to be a whole article on its own.
Here are some places to check out while you’re in the area.
The Complex of Hue Monuments
The complex consists of Hoàng thành (the Imperial City), Kinh thành (the Citadel), and the Tử Cấm Thành (Purple Forbidden City), as well as associated monuments outside of the city, including the tombs of the emperors a string of temples, pagodas, and other spiritual sites.
Royal Tombs
Hue has seven royal tombs: Gia Long, Minh Mang, Thieu Tri, Tu Duc, Dong Khanh, Khai Dinh and Duc Duc.
The Nguyen Dynasty emperors built tombs for themselves before their deaths. These tombs symbolize the transition from life to the afterlife and reflect historical beliefs, cultures, and art. If you’re short on time, choose the tombs that interest you and enjoy their unique charm. Typically, half a day is sufficient to visit two or three tombs, depending on their size and location.
Khai Dinh Tomb stands out with its climbing platforms on a pine-covered hill instead of a flat area. It showcases influences from Chinese, Vietnamese, French, and Cambodian architecture. The most notable aspect is the contrast between the exterior, made of white concrete now darkened over time, and the lavish mosaics and murals inside.
Lebadang Memory Space
Lê Bá Đảng, also known as Lebadang, is a celebrated modern artist recognized as the “Master Painter of the East and West.” His works were showcased globally during the latter half of the 20th century and are part of many private collections, especially in the U.S., Japan, and France.
In Hue, both locals and visitors can view over 300 pieces by Le Ba Đang across different styles and materials. These artworks are displayed in the Lebadang Memory Space, a contemporary and innovative private museum.
***How to get there?
It’s about 10 kilometers from the city center. I suggest you rent a motorbike and head there on your own. If you use a Grab to get there, plan your return, as ride-hailing apps won’t function for the trip back. Trust me, it definitely worth it.
Address: Thôn Kim Sơn, Thủy Bằng, Huế.
Hotline: 0817 275 252
Opening Time: 8AM – 12AM/ 2PM – 6PM (Closed on Monday)
Price:
- 269,000 VND/pax;
- 150,000 VND/Hue person;
- Children under 1.3m: Free
Hue Abandoned Water Park
The old water park in Hue is located by Thuy Tien Lake, about a 20-minute drive from downtown Hue. It has become a favorite spot for Instagrammer visiting the city. Its run-down condition has turned it into a part of local folklore, sparking numerous tales and myths about its mysterious closure. Like a scene it’s straight out of a post-apocalyptic film, interested?
Exploring Da Nang: The Lively Coastal City
Vibrant coastal city that blends modern life with stunning nature.
Da Nang is well-known for its gorgeous beaches and remarkable scenery, attracting those seeking relaxation as well as adventure. The city is surrounded by the impressive Marble Mountains and the lovely My Khe Beach, offering a variety of outdoor fun.
Also, the Han River area gets really busy at night with markets, cafes, and bars, making it a fun place for visitors to chill and soak in the local atmosphere.
Hoi An – Venture beyond Old Town Border.
Hoi An used to be a major trading hub from the 15th to the 19th century, acting as an important stop for traders from countries like Japan, China, Portugal, and the Netherlands. This rich history turned Hoi An into a cultural blend, with influences visible in its Japanese wooden homes, Chinese temples, and French colonial architecture.
As you meander through the Ancient Town’s twisting streets, you’ll see different architectural styles that showcase this mix of cultures. The city’s effort to preserve these buildings highlights its commitment to keeping its historical charm alive while also attracting tourists. Each structure has its own backstory, and knowing where they come from makes exploring Hoi An even more meaningful.
But Hoi An isn’t only about the Old Town. There’s so much more for tourists to enjoy, like beautiful beaches, amazing food, lively rural areas, and rich artistic cultures.
Try cycling around Cam Thanh Coconut Village, Tra Que, and Cam Kim Village. While you ride through the countryside, enjoy the shifting scenery. The gentle hills, expansive rice paddies, and tranquil rural life provide a beautiful setting for your ride. There are plenty of picturesque trails that lead to lovely places. For more tips, take a look at our article for the Top Activities To Do in Hoi An.
How to Plan Your Hue Da Nang Hoi An Trip
If you’re planning a trip through Hue Da Nang, Hoi An, a bit of organization will help lots. Here are some handy tips to make your itinerary flow smoothly:
To get the most out of your travel time, try this route:
Kick things off in Hue, checking out the Imperial City and its historical sites/museums. Next, head to Hoi An for a few days filled with culture, shopping, and amazing food. Wrap up your journey in Da Nang with some beach time and buzzing nightlife.
Getting Around
Moving between the cities is pretty easy, with several transport options available:
Bus Services: There are many bus companies that run routes between Hue and Hoi An, as well as Da Nang, providing a budget-friendly way to travel.
Motorbike Rentals: For those seeking a thrill, renting a motorbike is a great choice. It gives you the liberty to roam around the countryside and take in beautiful views.
If you’re up for a challenge, the Hoi An Cycling Tour offers a 2-day, 1-night trip biking from Hoi An to Hue that takes you along routes many tourists overlook in Vietnam. You’ll get to tackle the famous Hai Van Pass, explore the interesting ‘city of Ghost,’ ride through the Tam Giang lagoon, and soak in the beautiful scenery of the Vietnamese countryside.
Starting a trip to Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An guarantees an amazing time full of rich culture, tasty food, and gorgeous scenery. This guide for these cities lets you really explore Vietnam’s rich heritage and make unforgettable memories. Get your plans in order now and experience the charm of these incredible places.
