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CENTRAL - Traditions & Culture

(8 NIGHTS, 7 DAYS)

Hue – Quang Tri – DMZ – Phong Nha Cave – Danang – Hoi An – My Son

Description

Central Vietnam offers a colorful mosaic of various cultures, terrains, religious faiths and ethnic groups. The 8-day trip into this world heritage region will give visitors a first-hand experience of this fascinating region. History is revived in every monument and local traditions can be experienced in every village, market and structure. In the end, it may well be the warm hospitality and delicious food of the local people that visitors will remember most.

Highlights

  • Visit the most significant monuments of the Nguyen Dynasty
  • Take a boat down Hue’s tranquil Perfume River to see ancient tombs, pagodas and temples
  • Enjoy the views from the scenic ‘Pass of Ocean Clouds’ and pass by picturesque beaches
  • Wander in Hoi An’s charming streets lined with centuries-old houses, quiet boutiques and famous tailors
  • Explore My Son where most remains of the mighty Cham kingdom are to be found
  • Row in a traditional sampan through rice fields and one of the world's longest known caves
  • Taste and savor the delicacies of central Vietnam, arguably the finest cuisine in the country.

Program


Day 1: Welcome to Hue

Arrival at Phu Bai airport and transfer to the city of Hue, Vietnam's first World Cultural Heritage site. The evening is highlighted by a Hue folk show with royal court music. Overnight in Hue.


Day 2: Hue

The morning tour focuses on the Imperial Citadel built in 1804; it was designed in accordance with the principles of geomancy (Feng Shui), and the Museum of Royal Relics where everyday utensils of the king and the royal family as well as other decorative artifacts can be admired. In the afternoon, visit the tombs of King Tu Duc and King Khai Dinh. The monuments were designed by the kings themselves and used as holiday retreats during their lifetime. Overland to Thien Mu Pagoda, attend the afternoon service and then take a boat ride on the Perfume River back to Hue, viewing rural landscape and local activities at sunset. Overnight in Hue.


Day 3: Hue - Dong Ha - Dong Hoi

Drive to Dong Hoi (165km), passing the former demilitarized zone (DMZ) along the Ben Hai River where vestiges of fierce battles can be seen including the ruins of the old Quang Tri Citadel, Dong Ha Town, the Hien Luong Bridge and the Vinh Moc Tunnels. The road running along the coastal plains offers idyllic views of sand dunes, rice fields and villages. Overnight in Dong Hoi.


Day 4: Dong Hoi - Phong Nha - Hue

Before leaving for Phong Nha, wander in the Nhat Le fish market, an ideal photo spot with sellers and buyers invariably wearing the ubiquitous conical hat. Transfer to the Xuan Son ferry landing (45km) and take a boat ride on the Son River to spectacular Phong Nha Cavern comprising Bi Ky Cave and Cung Dinh Cave. Steps lead to superb Tien Son Cave (1km), the most magnificent limestone cave in Vietnam. Back to Hue (210km). Overnight in Hue.


Day 5: Hue - Hoi An

In the morning, enjoy a bike trip (10km) across the countryside. Admire the rustic beauty of local markets, temples, a covered bridge and rice fields. Before leaving Hue, visit the Dong Ba Market, famous for its conical hats. Transfer to Hoi An (145km). Admire beautiful landscapes on the way to Hai Van Pass. Panoramic views of the clouds, the sea and the surrounding mountains unfold from the summit. Overnight in Hoi An.


Day 6: Around Hoi An and excursion to My Son

Enjoy a day trip to explore two stunning World Heritage sites. First, travel over rural roads to My Son (55km), where architectural treasures and sculptures of Cham culture dating from the 7th to the 13th century can be seen. Then back to Hoi An to explore the ancient city with traditional and original antique houses, temples, markets and handicraft workshops. Overnight in Hoi An.


Day 7: Free time in Hoi An

Full day free at leisure in the ancient town. Overnight in Hoi An.


Day 8: Departure from Danang

In the morning, transfer to Danang, visit to the stone-carving village of Non Nuoc and the Cham Sculpture Museum where a variety of ancient and modern sculpture are displayed. Transfer to Danang airport for departure.