Every region in Vietnam has something to offer. The North has its ethnic minorities, terraced rice fields, and traditional handicraft villages. The South offers a more dynamic energy, with bustling floating markets and large modern cities. Central Vietnam, a narrow stretch of land flanked by the other two regions, is a perfect blend of ancient cities, stunning beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine. If you’d like to experience something beautiful, neither overcrowded nor remote, Central Vietnam is the place to be!

For a well-rounded experience, one week is an ideal amount of time to explore the highlight destinations in Central Vietnam. Our “Central Vietnam 1 week itinerary: Highlight destinations” article will guide you through Danang, Hoi An, Hue, and Phong Nha, covering the best attractions, activities, and all the travel logistics.
 

When is the best time to visit Central Vietnam?

The best time to visit Central Vietnam is between February and August when the weather is mostly dry and warm. During this period, cities like Danang, Hoi An, Hue, and Phong Nha enjoy plenty of sunshine, making it a great time for sightseeing, beach trips, and outdoor activities.

From February to May, the temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 22°C to 30°C, with little rainfall. This is an excellent time to explore Hoi An’s ancient town, Hue’s historical sites, and Phong Nha’s caves without worrying about extreme heat.

Between June and August, the temperature rises, sometimes reaching 35°C, but this is also the perfect time for beach lovers. Danang’s My Khe Beach, Lang Co Beach, and Cham Islands are ideal for swimming and sunbathing. However, it’s important to note that July and August are peak tourist months, so expect larger crowds, especially in Hoi An and Danang.

From September to January, the region experiences its rainy season, with heavy rainfall and occasional storms, particularly in Hue and Danang. Flooding can sometimes occur in Hoi An, making travel difficult. If you plan to visit during this time, be prepared for wet conditions and check the weather forecast regularly.

Central Vietnam 1 Week Itinerary: Highlight Destinations

Day 1: Arrival in Danang - Hoi An

Your journey starts in Da Nang, one of the largest cities in Vietnam. This city is modern and vibrant, with long sandy beaches and a lively food scene. However, rather than staying in Da Nang right away, you will be picked up at the airport and head straight to Hoi An, which is about an hour’s drive away.

Hoi An is a charming ancient town famous for its well-preserved old streets, and a mix of European and Asian architecture. Once you arrive, you can check into your accommodation and take the rest of the day to relax. If you have time, you can walk around and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The best way to experience Hoi An in the evening is to stroll along the Thu Bon River, where you can see floating lanterns and small boats drifting in the water. You can also try some delicious local food, like Cao Lau noodles or white rose dumplings.

Day 2: Hoi An - Cam Thanh Village - Hoi An Ancient Town

Start your day by visiting Cam Thanh Village, which is just a short ride from Hoi An. This village is famous for its water coconut forests and traditional basket boats. You can take a ride in one of these round boats and watch local fishermen demonstrate their techniques for catching fish and crabs. It’s a fun and relaxing way to experience the rural side of Hoi An.

After the village visit, head back to Hoi An Ancient Town. The best way to explore is on foot or by bicycle. Walk through the old streets and visit famous sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, Chinese assembly halls, and art galleries.

Hoi An is also known for its tailors, where you can have custom-made clothing within a day. As evening falls, the streets become even more magical, with colorful lanterns glowing everywhere. If you’re interested in Vietnamese crafts, you can join a lantern-making workshop to create your own souvenir.
 

Day 3: Hoi An - Danang - Hue

After breakfast, leave Hoi An and head back to Da Nang. You have the option to visit the Golden Bridge, which is located in Ba Na Hills. This famous bridge, held by giant stone hands, offers breathtaking views of the mountains. However, keep in mind that Ba Na Hills is a theme park, and it can be crowded, especially during peak season. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can skip this and explore My Khe Beach or Marble Mountains in Da Nang instead.

From Da Nang, continue your journey to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. The drive takes about three hours, but it’s a scenic route, especially if you take the Hai Van Pass, a winding coastal road with stunning ocean views. Once you arrive in Hue, check into your hotel and take some time to rest before exploring the city in the evening.

Hue is famous for its royal history, ancient temples, and peaceful riverside scenery. If you have time, you can take a walk along the Perfume River or visit Dong Ba Market to get a taste of Hue’s unique cuisine. The city has a quiet and elegant charm, making it a perfect contrast to the lively streets of Hoi An.

Day 4: Hue City Tour

Hue is a city filled with history, as it was once the imperial capital of Vietnam. A full day of sightseeing will take you to some of the most impressive sites from the Nguyen Dynasty. The best place to start is the Imperial City, a massive complex of palaces, temples, and gates surrounded by thick stone walls. Inside, you will see the Ngo Mon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, and the Forbidden Purple City, where the emperors once lived.

After exploring the Imperial City, visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-story pagoda sitting on a hill by the Perfume River. It is one of the most famous symbols of Hue and offers a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful views.

In the afternoon, head to the royal tombs of the Nguyen emperors. The most popular ones are Tomb of Minh Mang, known for its harmony with nature, and Tomb of Khai Dinh, which has a unique mix of Vietnamese and European architecture. Each tomb tells a different story about the emperor it was built for.

Hue is also known for its unique cuisine, which is different from other parts of Vietnam. Dishes like bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup), banh beo (steamed rice cakes), and nem lui (grilled pork skewers) are must-tries.

Day 5: Hue - Handicraft villages - Tam Giang

On this day, take a trip to Hue’s traditional handicraft villages, where you can see local artisans at work. One of the best villages to visit is Thanh Tien, which is famous for making paper flowers. These colorful flowers are used in religious ceremonies and festivals. Another interesting village is Phu Cam, known for its conical hats, an iconic symbol of Vietnam. You can watch how these hats are carefully made by hand.

In the afternoon, visit Tam Giang Lagoon, the largest lagoon system in Southeast Asia. This place is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful escape from the city. The best way to explore Tam Giang is by boat, where you can see local fishermen working and enjoy the stunning sunset over the water. The views are breathtaking, especially as the sky turns shades of orange and pink.

Day 6: Hue - Phong Nha Ke Bang

Early in the morning, leave Hue and drive to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This place is known for its spectacular limestone mountains, underground rivers, and enormous caves. The drive takes around four to five hours, but the beautiful countryside views make the journey enjoyable.

The most famous attraction here is Phong Nha Cave, which you can explore by boat. As you glide through the cave, you will see stunning rock formations and crystal-clear water. Another great option is Paradise Cave, which is much larger and has impressive stalactites and stalagmites. If you are feeling adventurous, you can visit Dark Cave, where you can kayak, swim, and even take a mud bath inside the cave.

After a day of exploring, spend the night near the national park, enjoying the peaceful natural surroundings.

Day 7: Phong Nha Ke Bang - Hue - Departure

On the last day, return to Hue for your departure. The drive back takes several hours, so it’s best to leave early. Before you leave, a last lunch in one of Hue's typical restaurants is a must. Take the opportunity to taste one last time the local specialties, such as Bun Bo Hue, a spicy broth with rice noodles, or banh khoai, rice pancakes stuffed with vegetables and meat. After your lunch, you will be transferred to Hue airport to catch your return flight. 

How to get around in Central Vietnam?

Getting around Central Vietnam is quite easy, and you have several options depending on your budget and travel style.

Bicycle: In Hoi An and Hue, renting a bicycle is a great way to explore. Hoi An, in particular, is very bike-friendly, and you can cycle through the Old Town, rice fields, and nearby villages like Cam Thanh and Tra Que. Many hotels and homestays offer bicycle rentals for a small fee or even for free.

Motorbike: If you are comfortable riding, a motorbike is the best way to explore the town and its surroundings. You can rent one in Danang, Hoi An, or Hue for around 150,000–200,000 VND per day. Riding along the Hai Van Pass is a must-do for adventure lovers, offering some of the most stunning coastal views in Vietnam.

Train: The train is a scenic and affordable option, especially for traveling between Danang and Hue. The Reunification Express train passes through Hai Van Pass, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. A soft-seat ticket costs around 100,000–200,000 VND, and the journey takes about 3 hours.

Private Car: Hiring a private car with a driver is the most comfortable option, especially for long distances like Hue to Phong Nha. It’s a great choice if you are traveling with family or in a group, as you can stop at scenic spots along the way. Prices vary depending on the route, but expect to pay around 1,200,000–2,500,000 VND for a full-day trip.

Taxi & Grab: In Danang and Hue, you can use Grab (a ride-hailing app) or take metered taxis. However, taxis can be expensive for long-distance travel, so it’s better to rent a motorbike or car for longer journeys.

Where to stay in Central Vietnam?

Central Vietnam offers a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxurious beach resorts.

Budget (under $20 per night)

• Danang: Kon-Tiki Hostel, Rom Casa Da Nang
• Hoi An: Tribee Bana Hostel, Cheerful Hoi An Hostel
• Hue: Hue Happy Homestay, Bon Ami Hostel

Mid-Range ($20–$80 per night)

• Danang: Minh Boutique, Sala Danang Beach Hotel
• Hoi An: Little Riverside Hotel, Lantana Boutique Hotel
• Hue: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel, Spatel d’Annam

Luxury ($100+ per night)

• Danang: InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula, Four Seasons The Nam Hai
• Hoi An: Anantara Hoi An Resort, Hotel Royal Hoi An - MGallery
• Hue: Azerai La Residence, Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort

Conclusion

This one-week itinerary takes you through the most beautiful and culturally rich destinations in Central Vietnam. With the romantic Hoi An, the grand imperial sites of Hue, and the stunning natural landscapes of Phong Nha, this journey is filled with unforgettable experiences.

If you’re ready to experience the best of Central Vietnam, let us help you plan your perfect trip. Book a tour with us and enjoy a hassle-free journey with expert guides, comfortable transportation, and carefully planned experiences that will make your trip truly special!

>>> Jeep tour to Son Tra Monkey Mountain

>>> Tam Giang Lagoon Hue: A Hidden Gem In Central Vietnam