Are you a beach lover looking for the perfect getaway in Vietnam? Look no further! With its stunning coastline and picturesque beaches, Vietnam is the ideal destination for those who love sun, sand, and sea. In this 7-day itinerary, we will take you on a journey through some of the most beautiful beach destinations in Vietnam. From historical cities to ancient ruins and idyllic islands, this itinerary has it all. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable beach vacation in Vietnam.
Day 1: Arrive in Hue – Nightlife in Hue
Complex of Hué Monuments
Our itinerary begins in the city of Hue, located on the central coast of Vietnam. This former imperial capital is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The best way to start your Vietnam trip is by taking a direct flight to Phu Bai International Airport in Hue. Upon arrival, you can take a taxi or hire a private car to reach your accommodation.
Exploring Hue City
After checking into your hotel, spend the rest of the day exploring Hue city. You can start by visiting the Imperial Citadel of Hue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient citadel was once the seat of power for the Nguyen Dynasty and is now home to several palaces, temples, and pavilions. Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of this impressive complex.
Sunset at Perfume River
In the evening, head to the banks of the Perfume River to witness a breathtaking sunset. The river gets its name from the fragrant flowers that fall into the water from orchards upstream. You can take a boat ride along the river to admire the scenery and catch a glimpse of the Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-story Buddhist temple that dates back to the 17th century.
Nightlife in Hue
End your first day in Vietnam by experiencing the vibrant nightlife in Hue. The city has a lively bar and restaurant scene, with many establishments located near the Perfume River. You can choose to relax at a rooftop bar, sample local street food, or dance the night away at a club. Whatever you choose, you are sure to have a memorable evening in this charming city.
Day 2: City Tour in Hue – Traces of Nguyen Dynasty
Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue
On your second day in Hue, take a city tour to explore the various sights and sounds of this historical city. With its imperial past, Hue is home to several iconic monuments and landmarks that are worth visiting.
Thien Mu Pagoda
Start your day by visiting the Thien Mu Pagoda, which you may have seen the previous evening during your sunset boat ride. This impressive temple complex is considered the symbol of Hue and offers stunning views of the Perfume River. Don’t forget to admire the seven-tiered pagoda, which is believed to represent the seven reincarnations of Buddha.
Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang
Next, make your way to the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, one of the most well-preserved royal tombs in Hue. Surrounded by a pine forest, this tomb is an architectural marvel with its intricate decorations and beautiful gardens. Take a walk around the grounds and learn about the life and reign of Emperor Minh Mang.
Dong Ba Market
No trip to Vietnam is complete without visiting a local market, and Hue’s Dong Ba Market is a must-visit for any tourist. This bustling market offers a wide range of products, from fresh produce and seafood to souvenirs and handicrafts. You can also sample some delicious local dishes at the food stalls inside the market.
Traditional Vietnamese Dinner
End your day with a traditional Vietnamese dinner, complete with local delicacies such as banh xeo (Vietnamese crispy pancakes), nem lui (grilled pork skewers), and bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup). You can find many restaurants serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine in the city center, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from your hotel or tour guide.
Day 3: Da Nang – Road Trip to Hoi An
My Khe Beach, Da Nang
On day three, pack your bags and get ready for a road trip to Da Nang, one of the largest cities in central Vietnam. The drive from Hue to Da Nang takes approximately two and a half hours and offers beautiful views of the coastline.
Hai Van Pass
One of the highlights of this road trip is driving through the Hai Van Pass, considered one of the most scenic routes in Vietnam. This mountain pass offers breathtaking views of the East Sea and is a popular spot for photography. There are also several viewpoints along the way where you can stop and take in the stunning scenery.
My Khe Beach
As you near Da Nang, make a quick detour to My Khe Beach, also known as China Beach. This white sandy beach is a popular spot among tourists and locals alike, with its crystal clear waters and gentle waves. You can take a dip in the sea or simply relax on the beach, soaking up the sun.
Marble Mountains
Before reaching Hoi An, make a stop at the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone hills that are said to represent the five elements of nature. Take the stairs to the top of Thuy Son Mountain, the largest of the five, and explore the various caves and pagodas scattered around the area.
Arrival in Hoi An
Finally, you will reach Hoi An, a charming ancient town that has managed to preserve its traditional architecture and cultural heritage. Check into your hotel and spend the evening walking around the town, taking in the lantern-lit streets and riverside cafes.
Day 4: Hoi An Ancient Town – Full Day Tour
Hoi An, Vietnam
Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts visitors from all over the world with its well-preserved architecture, ancient temples, and beautiful rivers. On your fourth day in Vietnam, take a full day tour to explore this enchanting town.
Japanese Covered Bridge
Start your day at the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, one of the most famous landmarks in Hoi An. This wooden bridge was built in the 18th century to connect the Japanese quarter with the Chinese quarter. Take a stroll across the bridge and admire the intricate carvings and statues that adorn it.
Old Houses of Hoi An
Next, visit some of the old houses of Hoi An, which offer a glimpse into the town’s past. The Tan Ky House, for example, is a 200-year-old merchant house that has been handed down through seven generations. The Phung Hung House, built in 1780, is another must-visit with its unique blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese architectural styles.
Hoi An Market
After exploring the town’s historical sites, head to the Hoi An Market to experience the bustling atmosphere of a traditional Vietnamese market. You can find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handcrafted souvenirs here. Don’t forget to bargain for the best prices!
Lantern Making Workshop
No visit to Hoi An is complete without learning about its famous lanterns. Take a lantern making workshop and discover the art of creating these colorful paper lanterns. You can even take your handmade lantern home as a unique souvenir.
Day 5: My Son Holyland – Ancient Ruins
My Son Sanctuary – Ancient architectural ruins in the middle of forest
On day five, take a trip to My Son Holyland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just outside of Hoi An. This ancient Hindu temple complex dates back to the 4th century and was once the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom.
Tour of My Son Holyland
Take a guided tour of My Son Holyland to learn about its history and architecture. The complex is made up of over 70 temples and towers, with the main structure dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Marvel at the intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the temples and imagine what life was like during the Champa Kingdom’s reign.
Lunch at a Local Village
After exploring the ruins, head to a local village for a traditional Vietnamese lunch. You can choose to dine with a farmer’s family and experience their way of life or opt for a cooking class where you learn to make some delicious local dishes.
Afternoon at An Bang Beach
On your way back to Hoi An, make a stop at An Bang Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam. This tranquil beach offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, with its golden sands and crystal clear waters. You can relax on the beach, go for a swim, or try out some water activities such as kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.
Day 6: Cham Island – Diving to see coral reefs
Cu Lao Cham Seatrek
For all the beach lovers out there, day six will be the highlight of this itinerary. Today, we will take you to Cham Island, a group of eight small islands located just off the coast of Hoi An. This island paradise is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and colorful coral reefs.
Boat Ride to Cham Island
The best way to reach Cham Island is by taking a boat ride from Cua Dai port in Hoi An. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, and you can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline along the way.
Snorkeling and Diving
Once you reach Cham Island, get ready for an unforgettable snorkeling and diving experience. The waters around the island are home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even sea turtles. You can rent snorkeling or diving equipment from the island and explore the underwater world at your own pace.
Beach Time
After your exciting dive, spend the rest of the day soaking up the sun on one of Cham Island’s many stunning beaches. Bai Chong Beach is a popular spot for tourists, with its white sands and calm waters. You can also find some beachside restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious seafood lunch while taking in the beautiful views.
Day 7: Depart from Hoi An
On your final day in Vietnam, take some time to relax and reflect on the amazing experiences you’ve had over the past week. You can spend the morning exploring Hoi An once again, picking up any last-minute souvenirs or trying out some local delicacies.
In the afternoon, make your way back to Da Nang and catch your flight back home. We hope this 7-day itinerary has provided you with a taste of what Vietnam has to offer for beach lovers. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, an adventure-filled trip, or simply a relaxing vacation by the sea, Vietnam has something for everyone.
When is the Best Time to Go on this Itinerary?
The best time to visit Vietnam‘s central coast is from February to May when the weather is dry and pleasant. However, if you don’t mind some rain, September to December is also a good time to visit. Avoid visiting in July and August as it tends to be hot and humid, making it uncomfortable to spend long hours outside.
Conclusion
We hope this 7-day Vietnam itinerary has given you a glimpse into the country’s beautiful beaches and historical cities. From exploring ancient ruins to diving in crystal-clear waters, this itinerary offers a perfect balance of culture, adventure, and relaxation. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an exciting beach vacation in Vietnam.
