7 Days Picturesque Central Vietnam Tour

Picturesque Central Vietnam Tour Overview

Embark on a breathtaking 7-day journey through the heart of Central Vietnam, where ancient heritage meets natural beauty. This curated tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and stunning landscapes, taking you through the coastal charm of Da Nang, the imperial legacy of Hue, the cave wonders of Đồng Hới, the timeless streets of Hoi An, and the peaceful waters of Cam Thanh.

Discover the royal citadels, traditional villages, white-sand beaches, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites that make Central Vietnam a traveler’s dream. Whether you’re cruising through limestone caves, walking under lantern-lit skies, or gliding on a basket boat through coconut forests, this tour promises unforgettable experiences every day.

Perfect for culture enthusiasts, nature lovers, and first-time visitors alike — this is Central Vietnam at its most picturesque.

Destinations Covered: Da Nang · Hue · Đồng Hới · Hoi An · Cam Thanh

7 Days Picturesque Central Vietnam Itinerary

Day 1: Singapore – Da Nang – Hue

Highlights: Flight to Da Nang · Scenic Drive to Hue · Arrival & Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Hue.

Begin your Central Vietnam adventure by checking in at Singapore Changi Airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival at Da Nang International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our local guide.

From here, enjoy a comfortable and scenic drive to the historic city of Hue, located approximately 110 km away – a journey of about 2.5 hours. As you arrive in Hue, you’ll step into Vietnam’s former imperial capital, where ancient citadels, royal tombs, and tranquil pagodas tell the story of a glorious past. Many of these landmarks are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

After hotel check-in, unwind and savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Hue – Đồng Hới

Highlights: Perfume River Cruise · Thien Mu Pagoda · Imperial Citadel · Incense Village · Scenic Drive to Đồng Hới
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Đồng Hới.

After breakfast at the hotel, start your day with a serene boat ride along the Perfume River, one of the most iconic waterways in Vietnam. Your first stop is the Thien Mu Pagoda, a 7-storey pagoda perched on a hill overlooking the river. Also known as the Pagoda of the Celestial Lady, it stands as a symbol of Hue and holds over four centuries of history, dating back to its founding in 1601.

Continue to the Imperial Citadel of Hue, a sprawling UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the seat of power for the Nguyen Dynasty from 1805 to 1945. Explore its rich heritage as you visit key landmarks such as the Flag Tower, Noon Gate, Nine Dynastic Urns, Nine Holy Cannons, Thai Hoa Palace, and the Forbidden Purple City, which was once reserved exclusively for the emperor and his inner circle.

After lunch at a local restaurant, delve into the colorful charm of Hue’s traditional Incense Village, where every home is involved in crafting vibrant, aromatic incense sticks. The village’s rainbow-hued displays and the sweet scent of sandalwood make it a perfect spot for memorable photos and cultural immersion.

In the afternoon, embark on a scenic 4.5-hour drive to Đồng Hới, a tranquil riverside town located around 200 km north of Hue. Known for its proximity to natural wonders like Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, Đồng Hới offers a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.

Upon arrival, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before checking in to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Day 3: Đồng Hới – Phong Nha – Paradise Cave – Hue

Highlights: Paradise Cave · Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park · Son River Boat Ride · Return to Hue
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Hue.

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your day with an exciting journey to the renowned Paradise Cave (Thiên Đường Cave)—dubbed the “Underground Royal Palace” for its sheer beauty and grandeur. Located within the UNESCO-listed Phong Nha–Kẻ Bàng National Park, this cave is the largest and most magnificent in the region.

Upon arrival, board an electric buggy for a scenic 2 km ride to the base of the cave. From there, follow a wooden walkway that stretches 1 km into the cavern’s depths, allowing you to marvel at the stunning array of stalactites and stalagmites, formed over millions of years. The well-lit interior reveals surreal shapes and cathedral-like chambers—an unforgettable underground experience.

Next, continue your exploration with a visit to the Phong Nha Cave, part of the same protected national park. After lunch at a local restaurant in the Phong Nha area, take a relaxing boat cruise along the Son River to the cave entrance. As you glide into the cave’s mouth, you’ll be mesmerized by the otherworldly formations reflected in the clear blue waters. Known as the “Water Cave”, Phong Nha’s ethereal beauty attracts both local and international visitors.

In the late afternoon, journey back to Hue, taking in the scenic countryside along the way.

Upon arrival, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and spend the rest of the evening at leisure—perhaps strolling the atmospheric streets of Hue or relaxing by the Perfume River.

Day 4: Hue – Ba Na Hills – Da Nang

Highlights: Ba Na Hills · French Village · Golden Bridge · Fantasy Park
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Da Nang.

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your day with a scenic 2-hour drive (approx. 100 km) from Hue to the stunning hilltop resort of Ba Na Hills, one of Central Vietnam’s most iconic attractions. Designed to resemble a charming French village, Ba Na Hills features cobblestone streets, quaint squares, a church, and fairy-tale architecture—all nestled among the clouds.

Take a breathtaking 20-minute cable car ride, one of the longest and highest in the world, as you ascend through lush green forests and cascading waterfalls. The panoramic views of the Da Nang coastline and the surrounding mountains are simply spectacular.

Top Experiences at Ba Na Hills

• Le Jardin D’Amour: Take Vietnam’s only furnicular railway to this romantic flower garden, home to 9 themed gardens such as the Legend Garden, Love Garden, Memory Garden, and more—each with its own unique design and story.
• Campanile Tower: Visit this bell tower built in the style of a Buddhist temple, housing a massive 4-ton bronze bell atop Ba Na Mountain.
• Fantasy Park: Ideal for families and thrill-seekers, this amusement park features a Dinosaur Park, Fairy Forest, and a 29-meter Free-Fall Tower, along with a range of interactive games and activities.
• Golden Bridge (Cầu Vàng): Marvel at one of Vietnam’s most Instagrammable landmarks—a 150-meter-long golden bridge held up by two giant stone hands, seemingly floating in the clouds at 1,400 meters above sea level.
• Optional: Visit the Ba Na Wax Statue Museum (entry not included) to see lifelike wax figures of world-famous personalities, intricately crafted by Italian artists.

After a full day of sightseeing, adventure, and unforgettable photo ops, descend via cable car and transfer to Da Nang City. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before checking in at your hotel.

Day 5: Da Nang – Marble Mountains – Son Tra Peninsula – Hoi An

Highlights: Marble Mountains · Linh Ung Pagoda · Son Tra Peninsula · Hoi An Ancient Town
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Hoi An.

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your day with a visit to the striking Marble Mountains, a cluster of five marble and limestone hills named after the five elements. You’ll climb the stone steps of Thuy Son (Water Mountain)—the largest and most famous of the group—for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.

Along the way, explore the mystical Huyen Khong Cave, as well as the historic Tam Thai and Linh Ung Pagodas, where a natural shaft of sunlight dramatically illuminates the statue of a seated Cham Buddha—an unforgettable sight.

Next, take a scenic drive around the Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Monkey Mountain, which acts as a natural shield for Da Nang City. Visit the magnificent Linh Ung Pagoda, home to Vietnam’s tallest Goddess of Mercy (Lady Buddha) statue, standing 67 meters tall and offering sweeping views of Da Nang Bay and the Cham Islands in the distance.

Afternoon: Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

In the afternoon, journey to the charming and well-preserved Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This riverside town showcases a captivating blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture, reflecting its vibrant history as a trading port.

Enjoy a walking tour through the narrow, lantern-lit streets and visit some of its cultural gems, including:

• The Japanese Covered Bridge, an iconic symbol of Hoi An
• The ornate Trieu Chau Assembly Hall
• The 200-year-old Tan Ky Ancient House
• The Hoi An Historical Museum, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich past

As you stroll past the ochre-colored buildings, tiled roofs, and traditional shop-houses, you’ll be immersed in Hoi An’s peaceful charm and multi-cultural heritage.

Conclude the day with dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 6: Hoi An – Cam Thanh Water Coconut Village – Thanh Ha Pottery Village – Hoi An

Highlights: Basket Boat Experience · River Fishing · Pottery & Lantern-Making Workshops
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Hoi An.

After breakfast at the hotel, head to Bach Dang Dock for a memorable morning immersed in local culture and tradition. Board a charming wooden boat and cruise to the lush Cam Thanh Water Coconut Village, nestled in a peaceful palm forest along the Cua Dai River.

Here, discover the simple yet fascinating life of local Vietnamese fishing communities. You’ll have the unique opportunity to:

• Join local fishermen and try your hand at casting traditional fishing nets

• Paddle a Vietnamese basket boat, a fun and iconic experience unique to this region

• Learn about the ecological importance of the nipa palm forest

Enjoy a home-cooked lunch at a local family house, where you’ll savor authentic flavors and warm village hospitality.

Afternoon: Artisanal Heritage Exploration

Continue your cultural journey with a visit to Thanh Ha Pottery Village, a 500-year-old village renowned for its traditional ceramics. Witness the art of pottery-making as skilled artisans shape beautiful vases, pots, and kitchenware using techniques passed down through generations.

Next, step into the world of Hoi An’s most beloved symbol—its glowing lanterns. Visit the home of a local lantern craftsman for a hands-on workshop. Learn about the origins, meanings, and techniques behind lantern-making, then create your own colorful lantern to take home as a meaningful souvenir.

Conclude the day with dinner at a local restaurant, where you can reflect on your immersive experiences surrounded by the serene ambiance of Hoi An.

Day 7: Hoi An – Da Nang – Singapore

Highlights: Departure · Private Airport Transfer

After breakfast and check-out from your hotel, enjoy a private transfer to Da Nang International Airport for your flight back to Singapore.

Important Note:
Due to airport regulations, your guide will not be permitted to enter the terminal building. Travellers are required to complete their own check-in procedures upon arrival at the airport.

We hope you’ve had a memorable journey through the heart of Central Vietnam—rich in culture, heritage, and unforgettable experiences. Safe travels and we look forward to welcoming you again!