While Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi are an old-meet-new urban fantasy of kaleidoscopic thrills and cutting-edge eccentricities, rustic, nature-kissed Central Vietnam is an idyllic blend of whimsical and enriching moments easier to savour at a slower pace. Here are some top destinations for your itinerary.
Da Nang
A jewel-toned cityscape capsuled between Marble Mountains and oceanic vistas, Da Nang is a hub of rejuvenating exhilaration, with mind-boggling natural and man-made marvels, such as the Instagram-worthy Golden Bridge elevated by giant sculpted stone hands over lush, rugged passes, as well as traditional and avant-garde diversions like Paradise 3D Museum, Asia Park, and Nui Than Tai Hot Springs Park.
Hoi An
If you enjoy old-world enclaves steeped in lantern light with dazzling reflections dancing across a labyrinth of canals and multi-coloured houses, boutiques, and cafés, the UNESCO-listed Hoi An is the perfect quaint setting for romantic promenades, beautiful handicraft shopping excursions, gourmet street food binging, delicious coffee tasting, and learning native arts like silk weaving, calligraphy, and Vietnamese cooking from friendly locals.
Quy Nhon
From the golden-and-azure glamour of hidden beaches and windswept hikes to sunset clifftop views, rustic vishing villages, island turtle sanctuaries, vivid coral architecture, dreamy sand dunes, and tranquil rice fields, Quy Nhon is a magical off-the-beaten-track haven. If you’re looking for an unforgettable taste of luxurious Vietnam train travel, venture no further than the likes of The Vietage.
Hue
Whether it’s striking art déco villas, mouthwatering local delicacies, jungle-clad hills, the arresting Perfume River cruises, mesmerising paddy fields, captivatingly eye-catching market places, or imperial citadels echoing with the grandeur of dynasties, Hue is another one of Vietnam’s well-kept secrets.