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Central Vietnam: 9-Day Vegetarian-Friendly Hue, Da Nang & Hoi An Itinerary (Jan 9–17, 2026)

Viewed by 77 travelers
Day 1 · Fri, Jan 9
Hue (arrive via Da Nang Airport)

Arrival in Da Nang — Transfer to Hue & Evening Stroll

11:40 AM:

Arrive at Da Nang Airport (DAD). Collect luggage, buy a local SIM if needed, and exchange a small amount of cash; look for the flight information screens and arrival hall services.

12:10 PM:

Meet your pre-booked transfer or hop in a private car to Hue (approx. 2-2.5 hours via the scenic Hai Van Pass). Keep water and light snacks handy for the drive.

2:30 PM:

Brief comfort stop at Lang Co Bay viewpoint if your driver stops at the Hai Van Pass — stretch legs and take photos of the coast and mountains.

3:30 PM:

Arrive in Hue and check in to your hotel within walking distance of the Citadel that offers free breakfast; drop bags and freshen up (recommended hotels: Eldora Hotel, Pilgrimage Village nearby for a quiet stay, or Moonlight Hotel for budget-friendly options).

4:15 PM:

Short walk toward the Perfume River to get oriented — enjoy the riverside atmosphere and the gentle late-afternoon light before sightseeing begins.

4:45 PM:

Visit Ngo Mon Gate and the outer area of the Imperial City (Citadel) for exterior photos and an introduction to Hue’s history; you can walk the walls and get the feel of the complex before a deeper visit tomorrow.

5:30 PM:

Stroll to Dong Ba Market for a lively local scene — browse stalls, see placards of local vegetarian snacks, and spot ingredients used in Hue’s vegetarian dishes.

6:00 PM:

Early vegetarian dinner at Contemporary Vegetarian Restaurant (Nha Hang Chay Nhat Ha or Chay An Lac are good options) — try vegetarian bun bo hue-style soup, fresh spring rolls, and local vegetable dishes.

7:15 PM:

Evening walk along the Perfume River toward Truc Bach or the small riverside cafés — if available, watch a short dragon boat or sampan cruise pass by; soak in the calm of Hue at night.

8:00 PM:

Optional short sampan ride on the Perfume River (book through your hotel or a reputable operator) for a peaceful intro to Hue’s riverside lights and local life.

8:45 PM:

Hot tea or dessert at a nearby vegetarian-friendly café such as Huyen Anh Café or local tea houses — relax and plan tomorrow’s full day in the Imperial City and tombs.

9:30 PM:

Return to your hotel to rest; confirm tomorrow’s pickup time for a guided tour of the Citadel and the popular tombs (Khải Định or Minh Mạng) and ask hotel to recommend vegetarian lunch spots.

10:00 PM:

Lights out or quiet balcony time — sleep early to be refreshed for a full day exploring Hue’s imperial highlights tomorrow.

Day 2 · Sat, Jan 10
Hue

Hue Citadel & Imperial City — Temples and Local Vegetarian Fare

6:30 AM:

Wake gently and enjoy the hotel’s free breakfast—choose light options like fresh fruit, sticky rice, and Vietnamese coffee or soy milk to fuel a full day of walking.

7:15 AM:

Short riverside stroll along the Perfume River toward Ngo Mon Gate to enjoy cooler morning air and take photos before the crowds arrive; note orientation for later visits.

8:00 AM:

Enter the Imperial City (Citadel) via Ngo Mon Gate for a guided or self-guided tour; start with the Thai Hoa Palace, the Nine Dynastic Urns, and the halls of the Forbidden Purple City.

9:30 AM:

Continue exploring the Citadel’s pavilions and royal architecture—visit the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum inside the complex for decorative arts and royal costumes.

10:30 AM:

Walk or take a short cyclo to the nearby Tu Duc Tomb (approx. 10-15 minutes by taxi) to wander its peaceful pavilions, lakes and shaded gardens—enjoy the tranquil imperial landscape.

11:45 AM:

Return toward the city center for a vegetarian lunch at Nha Hang Chay An Lac or Huyen Anh Vegetarian—try the vegetarian bun bo Hue (spiced noodle soup), paper-thin rice pancakes, and fresh herb plates.

1:00 PM:

After lunch, head to Khai Dinh Tomb (a 30-40 minute drive) to admire the unique fusion of European and Vietnamese designs and the intricate ceramic mosaics in the mausoleum.

2:30 PM:

Visit Minh Mang Tomb on the return route if time and energy allow (or swap with Tu Duc earlier); appreciate its symmetrical layout, large reflecting ponds and quiet tree-lined avenues.

4:00 PM:

Stop at Thanh Toan Bridge village (optional, 20-30 minutes by taxi) or return to Dong Ba Market—browse local produce and handicrafts and sample vegetarian snacks like banh beo or steamed rice cakes from stall vendors.

5:00 PM:

Return to your hotel to rest and freshen up; enjoy tea on the balcony or check photos and notes from the day while the late afternoon light softens over the river.

6:00 PM:

Walk toward the Perfume River and book a short boat ride or dragon boat sunset cruise (many depart from Truong Tien bridge area) for another riverside perspective of Hue at golden hour.

7:15 PM:

Dinner at Ancient Hue Vegetarian (Cha Ca Chay/Chay Nhat Ha) or Huong Chay—order a variety of small plates: vegetarian rice paper rolls, mushroom hotpot, and local vegetable dishes to share.

8:30 PM:

Enjoy a traditional royal music performance (Ca Hue) if available at a riverside venue or bookable through your hotel—this provides cultural context to the day’s imperial sites.

9:30 PM:

Take a relaxed night walk across Truong Tien Bridge to see the statue lamps and Perfume River reflections; stop for a light dessert or herbal tea at Huyen Anh Café if you like.

10:15 PM:

Return to your hotel, confirm tomorrow’s morning transfer to Da Nang, pack any souvenirs, and get a good night’s rest ahead of the short transfer and new hotel check-in.

Day 3 · Sun, Jan 11
Da Nang

Morning in Hue, Transfer to Da Nang — Settle into Quiet Hotel

6:30 AM:

Wake early and enjoy your hotel's complimentary breakfast—choose light options like fresh fruit, soy milk, banh mi chay or steamed rice to fuel the morning transfer.

7:15 AM:

Take a last riverside stroll along the Perfume River toward Truong Tien Bridge to soak up the morning light and take final photos of Hue’s riverfront before checking out.

7:50 AM:

Return to the hotel to check out and confirm luggage is loaded into your pre-booked private transfer or shuttle to Da Nang; keep snacks and water handy for the drive.

8:15 AM:

Depart Hue for Da Nang via the scenic Hai Van Pass—if you didn’t on arrival, request the driver stop at the Hai Van Pass viewpoint and Lang Co Bay for quick photo breaks.

10:30 AM:

Short comfort stop in Lang Co (if the driver stops) to stretch, use facilities and enjoy sea views; otherwise continue along the coastal road toward Da Nang.

11:30 AM:

Arrive in Da Nang and check in to your quiet hotel with free breakfast and easy access to city sights (suggestions: A La Carte Da Nang Beach for a quieter beachfront stay, Brilliant Hotel or Vanda Hotel for central/quiet options near the cathedral and riverside).

12:00 PM:

Drop luggage and freshen up, then head out to a nearby vegetarian-friendly lunch—try Minh Chay (Da Nang branch) or Loving Hut for affordable vegan bowls, noodle soups and fresh spring rolls.

1:00 PM:

Walk to Da Nang Cathedral (Pink Church) to see the city’s distinctive landmark and then continue toward the Museum of Cham Sculpture for an hour of Champa art and history (about 10-15 minutes on foot).

2:30 PM:

Visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture (if not crowded) to admire stone carvings spanning 4-15th centuries—this provides cultural continuity from Hue’s imperial history to Cham heritage.

3:30 PM:

Stroll along the Han River to APEC Sculpture Park and the Love Lock bridge area; take photos and enjoy the riverside breeze while scouting the Dragon Bridge and evening plans.

4:15 PM:

Return to the hotel to rest and unpack properly; enjoy a short tea break on the balcony or use the hotel pool if available to unwind after the drive.

5:30 PM:

Head back out toward the Dragon Bridge area—if it’s a weekend, plan to view the weekend fire-and-water show (typically 9:00 PM), otherwise enjoy golden-hour photos of the bridge and riverfront.

6:00 PM:

Dinner at Nha Hang Chay Minh or Vegan BBQ Da Nang—sample local vegetarian dishes like bun rieu chay, vegetable hotpot, and grilled tofu with lemongrass for hearty, affordable fare.

7:30 PM:

Explore Da Nang Night Market (An Thuong or Helio/Con Market depending on location) to browse stalls, try vegetarian street snacks such as banh trang cuon chay, fresh sugarcane juice, and artisanal souvenirs.

8:30 PM:

Take an easy riverside walk across the Han River Bridge to see city lights and, if available, check the weekend schedule for the Dragon Bridge fire show; otherwise enjoy a drink at a calm riverside café.

9:30 PM:

If you still have energy, drop by the 3D Museum (if open late) for fun interactive photos, or return to the hotel to sort plans for Marble Mountains and My Khe Beach tomorrow.

10:00 PM:

Back at your hotel: lay out clothes for tomorrow’s Marble Mountains excursion, confirm any booked transfers (Ba Na Hills or Marble Mountains), and get a good night's rest.

Day 4 · Mon, Jan 12
Da Nang

Marble Mountains & My Khe Beach — Coastal Sights and Sea Breeze

6:30 AM:

Wake up and enjoy your hotel's complimentary breakfast—choose fresh fruit, coffee or soy milk and a light Vietnamese breakfast to fuel a day of walking and stairs at the Marble Mountains.

7:15 AM:

Quick riverside or beachfront stroll near the hotel to enjoy cooler air and confirm plans for Marble Mountains and My Khe Beach; pack water, sunscreen, a hat and comfortable shoes for climbing and beach time.

7:45 AM:

Taxi or Grab to Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son) — the ride from central Da Nang takes about 15-25 minutes depending on traffic; arrive early to beat the crowds and heat.

8:15 AM:

Explore Marble Mountains: climb steps to Huyen Khong and Tang Chon caves, visit Linh Ung pagoda and the ancient stone-cut grottoes, and take in panoramic views over the coastline and Da Nang city.

9:15 AM:

Visit the Non Nuoc stone carving village at the foot of Marble Mountains to watch artisans at work and browse small workshops for handcrafted marble souvenirs and decorative pieces.

10:00 AM:

Walk down toward the beachside area and stop for a refreshing iced soy milk or coconut drink at a nearby café; rest and photograph the striking contrast of marble hills and the South China Sea.

10:30 AM:

Head to My Khe Beach (a short drive north) and find a comfortable spot on the wide sandy shore—set up towels or rent a sunbed and umbrella if you like.

11:00 AM:

Relax on My Khe Beach: swim, wade or take a gentle walk along the shore; enjoy the sea breeze and views of Da Nang’s coastline while soaking up sun before lunch.

12:15 PM:

Walk or take a short ride to a nearby vegetarian-friendly beachfront lunch spot—try Loving Hut Da Nang (if convenient) or Minh Chay for noodle bowls, fresh spring rolls and light vegan salads.

1:15 PM:

Return to the beach for a quieter afternoon session—read, nap under an umbrella, or stroll the shoreline toward the Dragon Bridge area while keeping an eye on tide and sun.

2:15 PM:

Optional water activity: rent a paddleboard or join a guided SUP session (available seasonally) to enjoy a different vantage of the coast, or simply continue relaxing on the sand.

3:00 PM:

Walk along the promenade toward Son Tra direction or call a taxi back to the city center; optional short stop at APEC Park or the Love Lock area for photos and a break from the sun.

3:45 PM:

Return to your hotel to freshen up, shower off sand and salt, and recharge—use hotel pool if you want an extra dip before evening activities around the river.

5:00 PM:

Late-afternoon visit to Lady Buddha (Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula) if you’re up for a short scenic drive—enjoy views over the bay and the towering statue in soft late-afternoon light (allow ~45-60 minutes each way).

6:30 PM:

Dinner at a well-rated vegetarian restaurant back in town—options include Vegetarian House Minh Chay or Vegan Kitchen Da Nang for hearty, reasonably priced dishes such as vegetable hotpot, tofu lemongrass and local vegetable stir-fries.

7:45 PM:

Evening riverside walk to the Dragon Bridge and APEC Sculpture Park; if tonight is a weekend, plan to be at the Dragon Bridge by 9:00 PM to watch the fire-and-water show (check local schedule).

9:00 PM:

If it's a weekend: watch the Dragon Bridge’s performance (fire and water show). If not, enjoy night views of the illuminated bridge and stop by Da Nang Night Market to sample vegetarian street snacks and browse stalls.

9:45 PM:

Optional late visit to the 3D Museum for playful photos (check closing time), or return to a riverside café for herbal tea and a relaxed recap of the day’s photos and highlights.

10:30 PM:

Return to your hotel to rest; lay out plans for tomorrow’s Ba Na Hills full-day trip and confirm pickup time, ticket details and vegetarian meal options with the hotel or tour operator.

Day 5 · Tue, Jan 13
Ba Na Hills (near Da Nang)

Ba Na Hills Day Trip — Mountain Views and Golden Bridge

5:30 AM:

Wake gently and enjoy your hotel’s free breakfast—choose light items (fruit, coffee or soy milk, steamed rice) so you have energy for a long day and won’t feel too heavy on the cable-car climbs.

6:15 AM:

Meet your pre-booked shuttle or private car in the hotel lobby; confirm driver knows to stop for quick comfort breaks and that your Ba Na Hills tickets and vegetarian meal request are confirmed.

7:00 AM:

Depart Da Nang for Ba Na Hills (approx. 45-60 minutes). Enjoy the changing landscape as you climb toward higher elevation—bring a light jacket as temperatures on the mountain can be much cooler.

8:00 AM:

Arrive at the Ba Na Hills cable car station and collect tickets if needed; take the spectacular multi-stage cable-car ride up the mountain, watching valleys and forest unfold beneath you.

8:30 AM:

Reach the upper station and head straight to the Golden Bridge (Cau Vang) to enjoy early-morning photos with fewer crowds and the dramatic ‘hands’ framing sweeping mountain views.

9:15 AM:

Stroll from the Golden Bridge toward flower gardens and the French Village; savor the crisp mountain air while exploring cobbled streets, European-style architecture and photo opportunities.

10:00 AM:

Visit the French Village square and nearby viewpoints, then pop into the Ba Na Hills Wine Cellar & Courtyard area for charming photo spots and a rest on benches—note the cooler temps and shade.

10:30 AM:

Drop by Hoa Suu (Flower Garden) and the Le Jardin area to see seasonal displays and landscaped terraces; this is a good mid-morning stretch before moving to attractions.

11:00 AM:

Explore the Fantasy Park indoor amusements (fun for all ages) or the Debay Wine Cellar museum for a short cultural stop; these indoor options are great if the weather turns or to cool off.

12:00 PM:

Vegetarian lunch at a designated restaurant in the French Village or at the onboard buffet with vegetarian options—request tofu, vegetable hotpot, stir-fried greens and fresh fruit; your hotel/tour operator can pre-arrange this.

1:00 PM:

After lunch, take a relaxed walk toward the Linh Ung pagoda (small shrine areas) and additional gardens—look for panoramic overlooks and quieter corners away from the main plazas.

2:00 PM:

Ride the cable car down one stage to explore mid-level trails or viewpoints if you’d like a different perspective of the valley; photograph waterfalls and rainforest patches visible from overlooks.

2:45 PM:

Return to the upper plaza and spend time enjoying the French Village cafés and street performances, or revisit the Golden Bridge for late-afternoon light if you want more photos with softer shadows.

3:30 PM:

Option: play at Fantasy Park’s indoor games or take a short guided walking route that explains the site’s history and construction; otherwise, relax with tea or a vegan dessert in a riverside-style café in the village.

4:15 PM:

Begin heading back toward the main cable-car station to descend; take a last look at the mountain panorama and pick up any small souvenirs from the onsite shops—pack snacks for the ride down if needed.

4:45 PM:

Board the cable car for the return descent and enjoy final vistas of the forested slopes; note the changing light as you drop toward lower elevations and Da Nang’s coastline.

5:30 PM:

Arrive at the base station and meet your driver for the transfer back to Da Nang; relax on the drive and consider stopping briefly at a viewpoint on the way down if time and traffic allow.

6:30 PM:

Return to your Da Nang hotel and freshen up—shower and change before heading out for dinner, and leave your warmer layer handy if the evening is breezy near the river.

7:15 PM:

Dinner at Minh Chay (Da Nang) or Loving Hut: request local vegetarian specialties—try tofu lemongrass, vegan bun rieu, and a plate of fresh herbs to recover from the day’s walking and climbs.

8:15 PM:

Take a gentle riverside walk to APEC Park and across the Love Lock area; enjoy the city lights and, if it’s a weekend, plan to be near the Dragon Bridge area later for the 9:00 PM fire-and-water show.

9:00 PM:

If it’s a weekend: watch the Dragon Bridge performance (fire and water). If not, stroll the Da Nang Night Market to try vegetarian street snacks such as banh trang cuon chay and pick up any souvenirs you missed earlier.

9:45 PM:

Stop for a calming herbal tea or dessert at a riverside café (Huyen Anh Café or a vegetarian-friendly spot) and review photos from the Golden Bridge and French Village—share highlights with travel companions.

10:30 PM:

Return to your hotel; lay out clothes for tomorrow’s cultural day (Cham Museum, 3D Museum, APEC Park) and confirm any transfers or bookings. Sleep early to recharge after a full and scenic day.

Day 6 · Wed, Jan 14
Da Nang

Da Nang Culture Day — Cham Museum, 3D Museum & APEC Park

6:30 AM:

Wake gently and enjoy the hotel's complimentary breakfast — choose fresh fruit, pho chay (vegetarian pho) or soy milk to fuel a day of museums and walking along the river.

7:15 AM:

Short riverside stroll from your hotel toward the Han River to enjoy the cool morning air and scope out the day’s route: Cham Museum first, then APEC Park and the 3D Museum later.

8:00 AM:

Walk or grab a taxi to the Museum of Cham Sculpture (open early) and start your visit with the main galleries — admire Cham sandstone sculptures dating from the 4th-14th centuries while avoiding midday crowds.

9:30 AM:

Continue exploring the museum’s collection and small galleries — read the English labels or use an audio guide/app to understand Champa iconography, motifs and historical context that link to Hue’s heritage.

10:15 AM:

Coffee break at nearby Cong Caphe or a vegetarian-friendly café close to the museum for iced soy milk or coconut coffee and a light snack; review photos and notes before heading to APEC Park.

10:45 AM:

Walk along the Han River toward APEC Sculpture Park, taking in public art and river views; pause at the Love Lock area for photos and to read about local contemporary civic art.

11:15 AM:

Explore APEC Park and the riverside promenade: stroll past the APEC roundabout sculptures, relax on benches, and enjoy people-watching as boats glide on the river.

12:00 PM:

Vegetarian lunch at Loving Hut or Minh Chay (Da Nang) — order a hearty bowl of bun rieu chay, tofu lemongrass, fresh herb plates and Vietnamese spring rolls to refuel for the afternoon.

1:00 PM:

Head to the 3D Art Museum (Art In Paradise or similar branch) for an interactive art experience — enjoy playful, perspective-driven murals and take imaginative photos with the exhibits.

2:15 PM:

Spend time in the 3D Museum exploring different themed rooms, posing for creative photos and relaxing in the air-conditioned galleries; this is a fun contrast to the historic Cham sculptures.

3:00 PM:

Short walk to the nearby Da Nang Cathedral (Pink Church) to snap exterior photos and appreciate its distinctive architecture, then cross toward the riverside markets for a quick browse.

3:30 PM:

Visit a local handicraft stall or small gallery near the river to see contemporary Vietnamese crafts and pick up any lightweight souvenirs — seek out lacquerware or small Cham-inspired pieces.

4:00 PM:

Return to APEC Park for late-afternoon light and a relaxed riverside coffee or iced tea; watch the city transition toward evening and plan where to see the Dragon Bridge later if it’s a weekend.

5:00 PM:

Head back to the hotel to freshen up and rest briefly; change into evening clothes and confirm dinner reservation at a vegetarian-friendly restaurant near the river.

6:15 PM:

Dinner at Vegan Kitchen Da Nang or Nha Hang Chay Minh — try local specialties like mushroom hotpot, banh xeo chay (vegetarian crepe) and platters of fresh herbs and greens.

7:30 PM:

Evening walk along the Han River toward the Dragon Bridge area; browse the Da Nang Night Market (Helio or An Thuong depending on your hotel) for vegetarian street snacks like banh trang cuon chay and coconut desserts.

8:30 PM:

Cross the river to the Love Bridge and APEC Park for nighttime photos of illuminated sculptures and the city skyline — enjoy a slow-paced stroll and people-watch as locals gather.

9:00 PM:

If tonight is a weekend: position yourself near Dragon Bridge to watch the 9:00 PM fire-and-water show; otherwise, linger at the night market or riverside café to soak up the evening atmosphere.

9:30 PM:

After the show or market browsing, stop for a calming dessert or herbal tea at Huyen Anh Café or a vegetarian-friendly dessert spot and review the day’s cultural highlights.

10:15 PM:

Return to your hotel to rest; pack any new souvenirs and set plans for tomorrow’s Hoi An day trip (Lantern Town, tailors and riverside market) including vegetarian meal suggestions.

Day 7 · Thu, Jan 15
Hoi An (day trip from Da Nang)

Hoi An Ancient Town — Lanterns, Tailors & Riverside Night Market

7:00 AM:

Depart your Da Nang hotel after a free breakfast; meet your pre-booked transfer or Grab for the 30-45 minute drive to Hoi An, aiming to arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler air.

7:45 AM:

Arrive at An Hoi or Hoi An central parking area and walk toward the ancient town via the Japanese Covered Bridge area; pause for photos of the bridge and the canal in soft morning light.

8:15 AM:

Start with a relaxed stroll through the atmospheric lanes of Hoi An Ancient Town—visit the Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau) and the nearby Phuc Kien (Fujian) Assembly Hall with its carved dragons and tiled roof.

9:00 AM:

Head to a vegetarian-friendly breakfast spot like Minh Hanh Vegetarian or Mango Rooms (they offer vegetarian options) for a late second breakfast or coffee; try a tofu scramble, fresh fruit and Vietnamese iced soy milk.

9:45 AM:

Visit the Tan Ky historic merchant house for an inside look at a well-preserved 18th-century home—wander rooms, courtyards and lacquered woodwork while learning about Hoi An’s trade history.

10:30 AM:

Walk to the Hoi An Central Market to watch local life and browse fresh produce, dried goods and spice stalls; sample vegetarian street snacks such as banh bao chay or mi quang chay if you like.

11:15 AM:

Meet a recommended tailor or visit one of the famed tailor shops (e.g., Yaly Couture, A Dong Silk or BeBe Tailor) to discuss any quick alterations or bespoke pieces—ask about vegan-friendly fabrics and sample swatches.

12:00 PM:

Lunch at The Vegetarian Garden or Nu Eatery (both have good vegetarian options); enjoy local dishes like vegetarian cao lau-style noodles, fresh rice paper rolls and abundant herb plates in a calm setting.

1:00 PM:

After lunch, join a short guided walking tour (or self-guided route) that includes the Assembly Halls, Quan Cong Temple and the Museum of Trade Ceramics to deepen your appreciation of Hoi An’s multicultural past.

2:00 PM:

Cross to the riverside and book a short lantern boat ride from the An Hoi area—float gently on the Thu Bon River, release a small paper lantern if you wish, and enjoy riverside views of orange-tiled roofs and temples.

2:45 PM:

Wander toward the riverside tailors and boutiques for souvenir shopping—look for lantern shops, lantern-making studios (such as Thanh Ha Lantern Workshop) and pick up a small handmade lantern or two.

3:30 PM:

Take a short bike or taxi ride to An Bang Beach (about 15 minutes) for a late-afternoon rest—relax on the sand, walk the shoreline, or enjoy a coconut drink at a beachfront café with a view of the South China Sea.

4:30 PM:

Return to Hoi An Ancient Town to freshen up and collect any tailor-made items if they’re ready; otherwise use this time to rest at a riverside café and try a local herbal tea or vegan dessert.

5:30 PM:

Early evening walking tour of the Old Town as lanterns begin to light—visit the Assembly Halls and alleys again to see the golden glow, and stop at Reaching Out Tea House for a calm tea service with vegetarian snacks.

6:30 PM:

Dinner at Morning Glory (request vegetarian menu items) or at Vegetarian Garden for a more relaxed plant-based meal; sample vegetarian cao lau, mushroom hotpot or bánh xèo chay with fresh herbs.

7:45 PM:

Head to Hoi An Night Market along the river to browse handicrafts, silk goods and lamp-filled stalls—try vegetarian street snacks such as sweet sticky rice, fresh sugarcane juice, and banh trang cuon chay.

8:15 PM:

Take a lantern boat ride (or another short float) from the market area to see reflections of thousands of lanterns on the Thu Bon River; release a paper lantern or coin in a wishing bowl while observing local customs.

8:45 PM:

Enjoy the Hoi An Memories performance (check schedule and pre-book tickets) if it’s running tonight—this theatrical show combines music, dance and the town’s stories and is a memorable cultural cap to the evening.

9:45 PM:

Leisurely walk back through the illuminated streets toward the meeting point for your transfer; stop for a final coconut ice cream or herbal tea at a riverside café and savor the atmosphere before leaving.

10:15 PM:

Board your return transfer to Da Nang; on the drive back, reflect on the day’s tailor finds, lantern-lit photos and beach time, and confirm any pending tailor pick-ups for the next day.

10:45 PM:

Arrive at your Da Nang hotel and return to your room to unpack purchases, charge devices and lay out plans for tomorrow’s Hoi An coastal day (An Bang, coconut boat and Memories Show if you didn’t see it tonight).

Day 8 · Fri, Jan 16
Hoi An

Hoi An Coastal Day — An Bang Beach, Coconut Boat & Memories Show

7:00 AM:

Enjoy your hotel’s complimentary breakfast in Da Nang or Hoi An (if you stayed overnight) — choose fruit, soy milk and a light Vietnamese option to fuel a beach day; confirm any evening Memories Show tickets and pickup time with your operator.

7:45 AM:

Depart Da Nang (or central Hoi An) by Grab or pre-booked taxi for the short drive to An Bang Beach (15-25 minutes from Hoi An centre); bring sunscreen, a hat and a small dry bag for valuables.

8:15 AM:

Arrive at An Bang Beach and choose a beachfront spot — many cafés like The DeckHouse or Soul Kitchen offer sunbeds and vegetarian-friendly breakfasts if you want a relaxed seaside start.

8:30 AM:

Morning beach time: swim in the calm water, walk the wide sandy shore and enjoy the cool morning breeze; rent a sunbed or umbrella and take photos of the coastline and fishing boats.

9:30 AM:

Stroll to a nearby beach café for a late breakfast or refreshment — try Soul Kitchen or Rosie’s for coconut water, iced soy milk and vegetarian pancakes or fresh fruit plates.

10:15 AM:

Rent a bicycle or take a short taxi back into the countryside for the traditional Hoi An coconut-boat (also called a basket boat) experience on the nearby palm-lined waterways; confirm operator beforehand (e.g., Cocobay or local An Bang operators).

10:45 AM:

Arrive at the coconut-boat launch site and meet your local guide; receive a safety briefing and enjoy a scenic paddle through narrow canals lined with palms and small farms while learning about local life and ecology.

11:30 AM:

After the coconut-boat ride, visit a nearby family-run fishing or coconut workshop (many operators include this) to see how coconuts are processed and to try fresh-coconut snacks or sweetened coconut treats — vegetarian-friendly and authentic.

12:15 PM:

Return to An Bang Beach for a leisurely vegetarian lunch at The DeckHouse, Soul Kitchen or Nourish Cafe — order dishes such as tofu bahn mi, vegan curry, fresh spring rolls and large herb-heavy salads.

1:30 PM:

Relax on the beach after lunch: read, nap under an umbrella, swim or take a quiet walk along the shoreline toward the southern end where the sand is less crowded.

2:30 PM:

Optional short bike ride or taxi back into Hoi An Ancient Town to shop for any remaining tailor items, lanterns or souvenirs and to rest in the shade of the town’s lanes before the evening performance.

3:15 PM:

Coffee and a light snack at Reaching Out Tea House or Faifo Coffee in Hoi An to relax and review photos; request a quiet corner and try their vegetarian sweets or a soy-based dessert.

4:00 PM:

If you like, visit the nearby Thanh Ha Pottery Village (short taxi ride) for a hands-on pottery demo and calm riverside views, or stay in town to freshen up and change for the evening Memories Show.

5:00 PM:

Return to your hotel to shower and rest, then head back to Hoi An riverside early to secure good seats for the Hoi An Memories Show; check your ticket for the exact start time and meeting point.

6:00 PM:

Early vegetarian dinner near the riverside at Morning Glory (request vegetarian menu items) or The Vegetarian Garden — choose light but filling options like mushroom hotpot, vegetarian cao lau or tofu stir-fry with fresh herbs.

7:15 PM:

Arrive at the Memories Show venue (check booking: Hoi An Memories Show theatre on the outskirts or the temporary riverside performance area) and take your seat; enjoy the atmospheric pre-show as lanterns begin to glow in the Old Town.

7:30 PM:

Watch the Hoi An Memories Show (typical start times vary) — a visually stunning production of music, dance and local storytelling that blends Hoi An’s history, water themes and rural life into a memorable performance.

9:00 PM:

After the show, return to the riverside Old Town to see the illuminated lanterns; buy a small paper lantern to release on the Thu Bon River or join a short lantern float near the night market area.

9:30 PM:

Wander Hoi An Night Market and the lantern-lit lanes, sampling vegetarian street snacks like sweet sticky rice, banh trang cuon chay or coconut ice cream and picking up any final souvenirs from the stalls.

10:15 PM:

Board your return transfer to Da Nang (or walk to your Hoi An accommodation if staying overnight); enjoy the calm night drive and reflect on seaside relaxation, coconuts boats and the evening show.

10:45 PM:

Arrive at your hotel in Da Nang or Hoi An; unpack any purchases, charge devices and lay out clothes for tomorrow’s departure day — confirm your airport transfer for Jan 17 and finalize any last-minute tailor pickups.

Day 9 · Sat, Jan 17
Da Nang (departure from Da Nang Airport)

Morning in Da Nang — Last-Minute Sights & Departure (13:00)

6:30 AM:

Wake gently and enjoy your hotel's complimentary breakfast—choose light vegetarian options like fresh fruit, soy milk, banh mi chay or steamed rice to fuel a short but active morning.

7:00 AM:

Quick check-out preparation: finish packing, confirm your airport transfer for a 11:00-11:15 pickup (to allow time for check-in and security), and leave luggage at reception if your room isn’t ready to vacate fully.

7:20 AM:

Short riverside stroll toward the Dragon Bridge and APEC Sculpture Park to soak in final city views and take a few last photos of the Han River and city skyline in the cool morning light.

7:45 AM:

Visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture one last time (if you prefer a calm morning) or pop into the nearby Da Nang Cathedral (Pink Church) for exterior photos—both are quick 20-30 minute stops close to the river.

8:30 AM:

Return to the hotel area and enjoy a relaxed vegetarian coffee or iced soy milk at a nearby café (e.g., Cong Caphe or Huyen Anh Café) while sorting travel documents and boarding pass on your phone.

9:00 AM:

Last-minute souvenir run: walk to the APEC Park/Love Lock area and nearby shops for lightweight souvenirs—pick up a small Cham-inspired carving or a paper lantern as a keepsake.

9:30 AM:

Light vegetarian brunch or substantial snack at Minh Chay or Loving Hut—order a bowl of pho chay or a plate of fresh spring rolls with tofu to ensure you’re comfortably fed before the flight.

10:15 AM:

Return to the hotel to collect your checked luggage, settle any outstanding bills, and confirm your pre-arranged airport transfer is on schedule for departure to Da Nang Airport.

10:30 AM:

Check out of the hotel and board your pre-booked private transfer or Grab toward Da Nang Airport; allow roughly 30-45 minutes to the airport depending on traffic and give extra time for security screening.

11:20 AM:

Arrive at Da Nang Airport (DAD), proceed to airline check-in/baggage drop and complete immigration/security checks—keep your boarding pass and passport handy for a smooth process.

11:40 AM:

If time allows after security, visit the departure lounge café for a final coconut water or herbal tea and enjoy a quiet moment reviewing photos and notes from your Central Vietnam trip.

12:15 PM:

Make your way to the gate, confirm boarding time and duty-free pickup if needed; use remaining minutes to charge devices and prepare carry-on items for landing.

12:45 PM:

Boarding begins — find your seat, stow carry-ons, and relax as you prepare to depart; reflect on a restful, vegetarian-friendly Central Vietnam trip covering Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An.

1:00 PM:

Flight departure (or scheduled departure window) — say goodbye to Da Nang and plan to review tailor pickup logistics or any small loose ends when you return home.

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