7 Days Southern & Central Vietnam Tour

7 Days Southern & Central Vietnam Tour Overview

Explore the vibrant heart of Vietnam on this immersive 7-day journey through Southern and Central Vietnam. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the historic charm of Huế and the coastal beauty of Đà Nẵng and Hoi An, this tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Discover ancient temples, colonial architecture, colorful markets, and serene beaches, while experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Vietnamese people. Whether it’s the dynamic city life or the tranquil riverside towns, this trip promises unforgettable memories at every turn.

Destination Covered: Ho Chi Minh City, Đồng Hới, Huế, Đà Nẵng, Hoi An

7 Days Southern & Central Vietnam Tour Itinerary

DAY 1: SINGAPORE – HO CHI MINH CITY

Highlights: Notre-Dame Cathedral · Reunification Palace · Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee · Saigon Princess Dinner Cruise
Meals: Dinner
Overnight: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City (various options available)

Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by our local guide.

Begin your Vietnamese adventure with a visit to the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, a magnificent example of French colonial architecture. Admire its striking red brick façade and elegant twin bell towers, nestled in the bustling heart of the city.

Continue with a photo stop at the Reunification Palace, a historic symbol of the end of the Vietnam War and a powerful representation of the country’s reunification. You’ll also pass by the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, an architectural gem that reflects the city’s French heritage and colonial past.

In the evening, unwind with a delightful dinner aboard the luxurious Saigon Princess dining cruise. Enjoy scenic views of the Saigon River as you indulge in local flavors and soak in the city’s glittering skyline.

DAY 2: HO CHI MINH CITY – ĐỒNG HỚI

Highlights: Paradise Cave · Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park · Son River Boat Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (optional to include if needed)
Overnight: Hotel in Đồng Hới (various comfortable options available)

Begin your day with a domestic flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Đồng Hới, a picturesque coastal city in Central Vietnam known for its natural beauty and gateway to the spectacular cave systems of Quảng Bình Province.

Upon arrival, travel to the breathtaking Paradise Cave, often referred to as the “Underground Royal Palace.” Located within the UNESCO-listed Phong Nha–Kẻ Bàng National Park, this cave is renowned as one of the most magnificent and longest dry caves in Asia. From the parking area, take an electric buggy to the base of the cave, then descend along a wooden walkway into a surreal world of towering stalactites and dramatic limestone formations that stretch over a kilometer inside.

After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your adventure within Phong Nha–Kẻ Bàng National Park. Board a private boat for a scenic 2.5 km cruise along the Son River to the entrance of the famous Phong Nha Cave, also known as the “water cave.” As you glide through the peaceful river and into the heart of the cave, admire the intricate rock formations, massive stalactites, and stalagmites illuminated by soft lighting—an unforgettable natural wonder carved by time and water.

DAY 3: ĐỒNG HỚI – HUẾ

Highlights: Vinh Moc Tunnels · Hien Luong Bridge · Incense-Making Village
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (optional to include)
Overnight: Hotel in Huế (multiple accommodation choices available)

Start your morning with a journey to the Vinh Moc Tunnels, an extraordinary underground complex that tells a powerful story of resilience. Built by North Vietnamese villagers during the Vietnam War, this intricate tunnel network was used as a shelter from relentless American bombings. As you explore the tunnels, you’ll gain deep insight into the daily lives and survival strategies of those who lived beneath the earth for years.

Continue south to the Hien Luong Bridge, an important symbol of Vietnam’s divided history. Located at the 17th parallel, this bridge once marked the boundary between North and South Vietnam during the country’s two-decade-long separation. Today, it stands as part of the Hien Luong – Ben Hai special national historical relic site, commemorating the nation’s path to reunification.

Arrive in Huế, the former imperial capital of Vietnam and a city rich in history and culture. Before heading to your hotel, make a stop at the colorful village of incense makers, a vibrant and photogenic spot where local artisans continue the age-old craft of incense production. The village is a feast for the senses—brightly colored bamboo sticks lined up to dry under the sun, and the fragrant scent of sandalwood filling the air.

DAY 4: HUẾ – ĐÀ NẴNG

Highlights: Perfume River Cruise · Thien Mu Pagoda · Imperial Citadel · Khai Dinh Tomb
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Hotel in Đà Nẵng (your choice of comfortable accommodations)

After breakfast, begin your day with a peaceful boat cruise along the Perfume River (Sông Hương), offering scenic views of Huế’s serene countryside. Your destination is the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-story masterpiece perched on a hill overlooking the river. This centuries-old pagoda is not only a symbol of Huế but also one of the most sacred religious sites in Vietnam.

Next, explore the Imperial Citadel of Huế, a vast UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. Stroll through its impressive gates, royal palaces, and ancient temples, gaining insight into Vietnam’s imperial past.

After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh, one of the most elaborate and unique royal tombs in the region. The structure combines elements of Eastern and Western architecture and is known for its mosaic interiors and dramatic hillside setting—offering a fascinating contrast to the traditional Vietnamese design seen throughout the city.

In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant before heading to Đà Nẵng, a vibrant coastal city known for its sandy beaches and modern charm.

DAY 5: ĐÀ NẴNG – BÀ NÀ HILLS – ĐÀ NẴNG

Highlights: Bà Nà Hills · Golden Bridge · French Village · Fantasy Park · Han Market · Dragon Bridge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (optional to include)
Overnight: Hotel in Đà Nẵng (wide selection of quality stays available)

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Bà Nà Hills, a popular mountain resort located approximately 100 km from Đà Nẵng. Designed to resemble a quaint French village, the resort features cobblestone streets, Gothic architecture, and lush alpine gardens—all set against a stunning backdrop of forested hills and cool mountain air.

Upon arrival at the foothills, enjoy a breathtaking 20-minute cable car ride—one of the longest and highest in the world—soaring over misty forests and cascading waterfalls. Once at the summit, step into a whimsical world of architecture and adventure.

Activities at Bà Nà Hills include

• Le Jardin D’Amour: Take Vietnam’s only funicular to explore this beautifully landscaped Flower Garden, made up of 9 themed gardens, each with its own story and architectural charm.
• Golden Bridge: Walk along the world-famous Golden Bridge, held aloft by two giant stone hands, floating 1,400 meters above sea level. This photogenic marvel offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
• Campanile: Visit the 4-ton bronze bell housed in a Buddhist-inspired tower on the mountain peak.
• Fantasy Park: Dive into fun at Vietnam’s largest indoor theme park. From Dinosaur Park and the Free-Fall Tower to various arcade games, it’s a hit with both kids and adults.

Optional Attractions (entry not included in tour fare):

• Ba Na Wax Museum: Admire lifelike statues of world-famous personalities in Vietnam’s largest wax museum, crafted by Italian artists.
• Debay Ancient Wine Cellar: Explore a 1923 French-built wine cellar dug deep into the mountain.
• Alpine Coaster: Adrenaline-seekers can enjoy a thrilling ride through spiral mountain tracks on a gravity-powered coaster.

After soaking in the beauty and excitement of Bà Nà Hills, descend via cable car and return to Đà Nẵng.

Back in the city, visit the bustling Han Market, perfect for picking up local snacks, souvenirs, and handicrafts. Before ending your day, make a photo stop at the iconic Dragon Bridge, famous for its unique design and evening fire-breathing shows on weekends.

DAY 6: ĐÀ NẴNG – HOI AN – ĐÀ NẴNG

Highlights: Cam Thanh Water Coconut Village · Basket Boat Ride · Fisherman Experience · Hoi An Ancient Town
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (optional to include)
Overnight: Hotel in Đà Nẵng (your choice of accommodation)

After breakfast, head to Cam Thanh Water Coconut Village, a peaceful rural enclave near Hoi An. Here, immerse yourself in the daily life of local fishermen and experience the unique traditions that define this riverside community.

Board a traditional boat for a leisurely cruise along the Cửa Đại River, where you’ll witness authentic fishing techniques such as round net and cast net fishing. Take part in paddling a distinctive Vietnamese bamboo basket boat, navigating through tranquil canals lined with water coconut palms—once hiding places during wartime. Hear stories from local guides about the area’s wartime past and the resilience of its people.

Enjoy a warm, home-cooked lunch at a local family’s house, offering an authentic taste of central Vietnamese cuisine and hospitality.

In the afternoon, continue to the charming Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that beautifully preserves a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture.

Stroll through its atmospheric streets and visit key landmarks:

• The iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, an elegant symbol of the town.

• Trieu Chau Assembly Hall, known for its intricate wood carvings and Chinese influences.

• Tan Ky Ancient House, a 200-year-old residence with a rich blend of architectural styles.

• The Hoi An Historical Museum, showcasing artifacts and stories of the town’s storied past.

As you wander through lantern-lit lanes and past traditional tile-roofed houses, you’ll feel the timeless charm and multicultural heritage that make Hoi An so captivating.

Return to Đà Nẵng in the evening.

DAY 7: ĐÀ NẴNG – SINGAPORE

Highlights: Leisure Time · Departure
Meals: Breakfast

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Đà Nẵng—relax at your hotel, do some last-minute souvenir shopping, or take a peaceful stroll along the beach.

After check-out, transfer to Đà Nẵng International Airport for your return flight to Singapore, bringing home unforgettable memories of your journey through Southern and Central Vietnam.