3-Day Da Nang – Hoi An – Hue Itinerary: The Perfect Trip

The Da Nang – Hoi An – Hue triangle is Central Vietnam's "golden" itinerary: beaches, ancient town, imperial citadel, and outstanding cuisine in just 3 days. Here's the optimized plan for groups of 2-6, with a private car from Da Nang.

Day 1 — Da Nang & Son Tra

Morning: Son Tra Peninsula (langur spotting, Linh Ung Pagoda, Bai But). Lunch: Bun mam Da Nang. Afternoon: Marble Mountains (Huyen Khong Cave). Evening: Dragon Bridge fire show (weekends), Son Tra night market.

Day 2 — Full Day in Hoi An

Morning: Ancient Town (Japanese Bridge, assembly halls, old houses), order tailoring. Lunch: Cao Lau + Mi Quang. Afternoon: Tra Que herb village, Cua Dai or An Bang beach. Evening: Float lanterns on the Thu Bon River, dazzling night town.

Day 3 — Hai Van Pass & Hue

Morning: Depart 7 AM via Hai Van Pass (stop at summit for photos). 10 AM: Hue Imperial Citadel (2-3 hours). Lunch: Bun Bo Hue + Hue cake trio. Afternoon: Tu Duc Tomb + Thien Mu Pagoda. Evening: Perfume River cruise with folk music, then return to Da Nang via tunnel (1.5 hours).

Budget & Car Hire

7-seater for 3 days: 3,500,000-4,500,000 VND (fuel + driver included). Food: 300,000-500,000 per person/day. Tickets: ~500,000/person total. Grand total: 3,000,000-5,000,000 per person for a group of 4 — far more economical than joining a tour group.