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Da Nang, Vietnam

Vietnam's Central Coast

Vietnam tailor-made holidays

Introduction

Vietnam's central coast has a lot to offer the discerning traveller. With a long, complex and important history, the region has been at the centre of conflict and power for centuries, but it is also home to splendid ancient ruins, emperors' palaces - such as those at Hue - and distinctly French colonial mansions. It’s also where you’ll find some of Vietnam’s best beaches, particularly around Hoi An and Da Nang, the old and new marine trading hubs of the region.

Fascinating history

Perched between the former North and South Vietnam, the central coast is home to the former DMZ, and, as such, the region witnessed some of the worst fighting during the Vietnam War. Now, fully restored and revitalised, it’s a wonderful place to explore, where past and present meet within fascinating cultural traditions and modern ways of life. An important trade area, you’ll get a taste of mercantile history in still-operational silk-lantern workshops and busy marketplaces in its main cities.

Silk lanterns in Hoi An
Lanterns in Hoi An

Engaging cities

Poised on the edge of the exotic Perfume River, Hue is the old imperial capital and a cultural hotspot. Its elegant buildings and crumbling city walls reflect a rich royal history, and its food is some of the best in Vietnam. Meanwhile, the river itself offers the chance for scenic walks along the promenade and sunset dinner cruises along the waterway. And, further south, Hoi An’s UNESCO-protected old town is a must-see. A blend of French, Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese architecture create a melting pot of cultural references – you’ll see it in the quaint Chinese shophouses, pretty Vietnamese tube houses and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Ask our experts about meeting the local craftsmen here – you can even make your own silk lantern to take home. Both cities feature on our Highlights of Vietnam itinerary.

East Gate (Hien Nhon Gate) to the Citadel, Hue
East Gate (Hien Nhon Gate) to the Citadel, Hue

White-sands relaxation

Da Nang is the tourist capital of the central coast, its bright blue waters and sandy beaches an idyllic base for sun-seeking tourists. My Khe is one of the most popular resort areas here, famed for its seafood restaurants. You’re also ideally located to explore the Marble Mountains, which offer spectacular views along the coastline from five limestone peaks. Alternatively, head to Nha Trang for world-class snorkelling, uber-luxe hotels and a charming fishing-town heritage. Some of Vietnam’s most exclusive resorts can be found nestled on its white sand beaches – ask our specialists for their top recommendations.


Nha Trang

 

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Top itineraries in Vietnam's Central Coast

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Best of Vietnam & Cambodia

17-day tailor-made holiday from £4,995 pp incl. flights

From city greats and iconic, jungle-shrouded temples to off-the-beaten-track gems framed by a fabulous food scene, this best-of tour takes in the must-see highlights of two Far East favourites.

Lan Ha Bay, Halong Bay

Highlights of Vietnam

12-day tailor-made holiday from £4,510 pp incl. flights

Discover the best of Vietnam, taking in vibrant Hanoi, the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay and the culturally rich towns of Hue and Hoi An. Then, fly south to take in the magic of the Mekong Delta and the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels.

Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

Singapore to Hong Kong with Silversea

16-day luxury ocean cruise from £8,800 pp incl. flights

Explore the cultural and coastal delights of Southeast Asia as you sail from Singapore to Hong Kong with Silversea, taking in everywhere from the golden beaches of the Gulf of Thailand to the buzzing cities of Bangkok and Saigon.

Top places to stay in Vietnam's Central Coast

Facade, Boutique Hoi An Resort, Hoi An

Boutique Hoi An Resort, Hoi An

Contemporary resort

Boutique Hoi An Resort is a stylish oasis just footsteps from Cu Dai beach and offers fantastic value for money

Exterior, Anantara Hoi An

Anantara Hoi An

Traditional hotel

An exquisite blend of local and colonial charm, the Anantara Hoi An is made up of three-story colonial-style buildings that reflect Hoi An's history of trade with both East and West. It also has a world-class spa.

Bedroom Pool Villa, Nam Hai, Hoi An

Four Seasons The Nam Hai, Hoi An

Contemporary resort

The stunning Four Seasons The Nam Hai, an all-villa resort located on a beautiful beach close to Hoi An, is among the most stylish and luxurious options on Vietnam's central coast.

Pilgrimage Village, Pilgrmiage Village, Hue, Vietnam

Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa, Hue

Traditional resort

This rustic and charming resort is set in Hue's idyllic countryside in a tranquil and relaxing location. The hotel's spa is central to its identity, which offers a holistic and spiritually rejuvenating experience.

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Where to go in Vietnam's Central Coast

Nha Trang beach with beach chairs

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is arguably Vietnam's best-known beach resort, popular with domestic and international visitors alike. Ringed by a network of islands and surrounded on all three sides by picturesque mountain ranges, it's impossibly scenic.

Boat on the water at Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An

Hoi An, set just inland from the coast along the banks of the Thu Bon River, is home to a richly traditional old town - now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A former port city, Hoi An's multi-cultural history is reflected in a blend of Chinese, French and Japanese architectural styles.

Meridian Gate to the Imperial City within the Citadel in Hue, Vietnam

Hue

Located in the centre of Vietnam, along the banks of the Perfume River and close to the former border of the North and South, Hue is the old imperial capital and the country's cultural heartbeat.

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Meet our Vietnam's Central Coast experts

Speak to a tailor-made specialist on 020 7590 0613

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Why book with Wexas Travel?

At Wexas, we specialise in bespoke travel experiences. Our itineraries are just samples of what we can arrange, and can be changed depending on your precise needs, finances and ideas by our experienced destination specialists.

Contact one of our consultants on 020 7590 0613 to discuss how we can tailor your holiday.

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