Best things to do in Central Vietnam

In recent years, the central region of Vietnam has emerged as a top travel destination, captivating both local and international visitors. With its delectable cuisine, stunning natural beauty and friendly locals, the region promises a memorable experience for all travellers.

Discover the magic of Central Vietnam with Hanoi Voyages – your trusted companion for expertly crafted and unforgettable journeys.

Why should Central Vietnam be your next travel stop?

Blessed with stunning bays, soft white sand beaches and rich local culture, Central Vietnam is a perfect blend of nature, heritage, and hospitality. This region offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler, from historic sites and vibrant cities to peaceful seaside escapes and breathtaking landscapes.

👉Here are some of the top attractions in Central Vietnam:

• Hue: The former imperial capital, known for its royal citadel, ancient tombs and the tranquil Perfume river.

• Da Nang: A dynamic coastal city featuring beautiful beaches, Marble mountains and the famous Golden bridge.

• Hoi An: A charming ancient town filled with lantern-lit streets, traditional architecture and delicious street food.

• Phong Nha – Ke Bang national park: A natural wonderland with massive caves like Son Doong and Paradise cave.

Ideal time to explore Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam is a captivating destination offering a perfect blend of historical landmarks, stunning beaches, and lush landscapes. To fully enjoy its beauty, it's important to plan your visit according to the weather, as the region experiences distinct dry and rainy seasons that shape the travel experience. Here are the details of the weather by season:

• February – May: Mild temperatures (25-30°C), dry season, perfect for sightseeing in Hue's Imperial City or exploring the charming streets of Hoi An.

• June – August: Hot (up to 35°C), clear skies, ideal for beach activities and water sports.

• September – November: Rainy season (21-26°C), cooler temperatures, lush greenery, and fewer tourists, making it a peaceful time to visit Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park and My Son sanctuary.

• December – January: Cooler (18-25°C), great for hiking and cultural exploration, but less suitable for beach activities.

The ideal time to explore Central Vietnam is between February and May, when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Whether you're visiting the ancient town of Hoi An, relaxing on the beaches of Da Nang or uncovering history in Hue, this season promises a memorable experience.

Top 7 must-visit attractions in Central Vietnam

If you're looking for the top destinations in Vietnam, especially in the Central region, you're in the right place. Central Vietnam boasts a rich blend of stunning landscapes, cultural heritage, and historical landmarks, making it a must-see for any traveler. Here, we highlight the 7 must-visit spots to include in your Central Vietnam journey.

Hue - The ancient imperial capital

Hue, nestled in Central Vietnam, is a charming destination with beautiful landscapes and a rich history. With its royal palaces, impressive tombs and historical sites, it offers a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re admiring its scenic beauty or exploring its cultural heritage, Hue is a must-visit place.

• Explore the Imperial City, home to majestic palaces, temples and royal tombs.

• Relax on a boat ride along the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda.

• Visit the Tomb of King Minh Mang, a stunning royal resting place.

• Enjoy delicious Hue dishes at best local restaurants

• Discover the traditional craftsmanship of incense and conical hat making in nearby villages.

• Stroll through Dong Ba market, where you can find colorful fabrics and hand-tailored Ao Dai.

Da Nang - Gateway to Central Vietnam

Da Nang is a youthful, vibrant city where modern charm blends seamlessly with stunning natural landscapes. With its iconic bridges, long stretches of beach and peaceful rhythm of life, the city offers a refreshing and relaxing vibe that makes visitors want to return again and again.

• Cham Sculpture museum: Discover ancient Cham art inspired by Hindu culture, with sculptures dating from the 7th to 15th century.

• Marble mountains: Climb caves and pagodas nestled in marble peaks, and enjoy stunning views from Thuy Son summit.

• Ba Na hills: Ride the world-record cable car to a hilltop French village and the iconic Golden Bridge floating in the clouds.

• Son Tra peninsula: Explore untouched nature, spot rare wildlife, and snap dreamy photos at famous viewpoints like Ban Co Peak.

• Hoa Phu Thanh waterfall: Go rafting down a wild 3km stream, then unwind with ziplining, swimming, or fish massage.

Da Nang is calling – come and create unforgettable memories in this vibrant city!

Nha Trang - Pearl of the East Sea

In the coastal city of Nha Trang, sun-kissed relaxation is a daily affair. This destination enjoys more sunshine days than anywhere else in Vietnam. Tran Phu, the main beach, offers a seven-kilometre stretch of sand and clear waters, framed by palms, beach bars and seafood restaurants. Be sure to explore these top activities in Nha Trang – the Pearl of the Sea:

• Explore Yang Bay waterfalls: Stunning waterfalls and exciting activities like archery and traditional music performances amidst lush nature.

• Admire Ponagar Cham towers: Ancient Cham architecture and carvings, honoring the goddess Po Ina Nagar.

• Relax on Hon Tam island: Pristine beaches, water sports, mud baths and fresh seafood on this serene island.

• Experience Twin beaches: Swim in two distinct water currents—one warm, one cool—perfect for snorkeling and relaxing.

• Dive to see coral reefs: Explore vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life at depths of 10-15 meters.

Hoi An - City of lanterns

Located on the northern bank of the lower Thu Bon River, Hoi An is a charming ancient town, known for its golden-hued historic houses and the mesmerizing sight of lantern-lit rivers at night. The town also offers a taste of Quang cuisine, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.

• Wander through Hoi An's ancient streets: Immerse yourself in the charm of narrow alleys, vibrant buildings, ancient temples and the iconic Japanese bridge.

• Visit Tra Que vegetable village: Explore fragrant herb gardens and try your hand at farming with locals.

• Explore Cam Thanh coconut forest: Take a basket boat ride through winding waterways surrounded by coconut trees.

• Join a cooking class: Learn to cook delicious Vietnamese dishes with a local family.

• Enjoy a foot massage: Relax with a soothing herbal foot massage after a day of exploring.

My Son sanctuary - Vietnam’s ancient ruins

My Son sanctuary in Quang Nam features over 70 Cham temples and towers, reflecting the ancient Champa civilization’s rich history and architecture, making it an ideal destination for travelers interested in exploring Vietnam’s cultural heritage.

👉Get the most out of your visit by trying these activities:

• Explore the unique 8-meter-wide ancient road: Once reserved for Cham royalty, this hidden path with parallel walls was uncovered during restoration of My Son Sanctuary.

• Admire the captivating Apsara dance: Inspired by sandstone carvings, this graceful performance celebrates female beauty with delicate movements, vibrant costumes and traditional music.

• Immerse in the Katê Festival: Held annually in the seventh month of the Cham calendar, this cultural celebration lets visitors join rituals, enjoy traditional performances, and experience Cham heritage.

• Savor My Son's specialties: Try local dishes like Cau Mong roast beef, Phu Chiem noodles, and Banh dap, which highlight the region's rich flavors.

Phong Nha – Ke Bang national park, adventurer's paradise

Nestled in the limestone mountains of Quang Binh province, Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Millions of years of geological evolution have shaped vast cave systems, underground rivers, and jungle-covered peaks that create a top adventure destination in central Vietnam.

👉Must-try adventures waiting for you in Phong Nha - Ke Bang national park:

• Explore Phong Nha cave by dragon boat and marvel at its impressive formations.

• Visit the breathtaking Paradise cave, known as the longest dry cave in the world

• Swim or kayak at Mooc stream, immerse yourself in the serene and lush natural surroundings.

Vinh Moc - Village beneath the earth

Located in Quang Tri province, Vinh Moc Tunnels are a remarkable underground network to shelter civilians from intense bombing in the past. Spanning multiple levels, the tunnels offer a powerful glimpse into the resilience and survival of the local people.

👉Things to Do at Vinh Moc tunnels:

• Explore the multi-level tunnel system

• Visit the on-site museum with wartime exhibits

• Walk around bomb craters and historic landmarks

• Combine with other DMZ sites like Hien Luong Bridge and Ben Hai River

How many days to visit Central Vietnam?

Not sure how many days to spend in Central Vietnam? Here’s a quick guide to help you plan the perfect itinerary based on your travel time:

• 3–4 days: Ideal for a short getaway. Focus on one or two cities like Da Nang + Hoi An or Hue + Hoi An. Enjoy main highlights: Ancient Town, beaché, imperial sites.

• 5–6 days: Great for exploring all three main cities Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An , with enough time for day trips like Ba Na hill and My Son sanctuary

• 7–8 days: Perfect for a relaxed pace and deeper discovery. Add countryside biking, cooking classes, beach time and scenic drives like the Hai Van pass

• 10+ days: Ideal if you want to combine Central Vietnam with the Central Highlands (Kon Tum, Pleiku) or the Phong Nha caves.

👉Discover the best of Central Vietnam with our expertly designed tours tailored to your time and interests:

Travel tips for your trip to Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam is a captivating region known for its rich culture, beautiful coastlines, and historic landmarks. Whether you're traveling for a few days or an extended stay, a little preparation will go a long way in making your journey smooth and unforgettable. Here are some essential travel tips for exploring Central Vietnam.

Getting around central Vietnam: Tips for visitors

Traveling around Central Vietnam is relatively easy, thanks to a variety of transport options:

• Domestic flights: Quick and efficient for covering long distances between cities like Da Nang, Hue and Nha Trang.

• Train (Reunification Express): A scenic and affordable option connecting major cities along the coast.

• Motorbike Rental: Popular for exploring places like Hai Van Pass or rural areas. Always wear a helmet and carry proper documents.

• Taxi & Ride-hailing apps (Grab, Be): Convenient and reliable for city transportation.

• Bicycles: Ideal for smaller cities like Hoi An, where traffic is light and cycling is safe and scenic.

Accommodation in Central Vietnam: Comfort at every price

Accommodation in Central Vietnam caters to all budgets, offering a wide range of options for visitors. Here are some suggestions to consider:

• Mid-range: Hotels in the 3–4 star range typically cost between $25 to $70 per night, depending on location and season. They usually offer clean, comfortable rooms with modern amenities, breakfast included and often a pool or spa service.

• Luxury: Luxury resorts like Four Seasons The Nam Hai or Vedana Lagoon Resort & Spa start at about $150 per night, offering premium services, stunning views, private pools and top-tier hospitality.

Vietnam currency exchange: What you need to know?

In Vietnam, the local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Travelers can exchange foreign currencies at banks, authorized exchange counters, or currency exchange booths at international airports. Major cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City offer a wide range of safe and reliable exchange points.

For more detailed advice and up-to-date exchange rate information, check our full guide on currency exchange tips in Vietnam.

Central Vietnam captivates with its blend of vibrant cities, ancient heritage, stunning beaches and peaceful countryside. Whether you're exploring the historic charm of Hue, the lantern-lit beauty of Hoi An, or the coastal vibes of Da Nang, the region promises unforgettable experiences. Ready to discover the heart of Vietnam? Contact Hanoi Voyages for guidance and personalized tours to make your journey truly seamless and memorable.