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

Viewed by 103 travelers
Day 1 · Fri, Jan 9
Hue

Arrival in Da Nang — Transfer to Hue & Evening Stroll

11:40 AM:

Arrive at Da Nang Airport (DAD). Clear immigration and luggage; collect local SIM or cash if needed and meet your pre-booked private transfer or shared shuttle to Hue (approx. 2 hours).

12:10 PM:

Meet driver/transfer. Confirm hotel drop-off and any stops en route (restroom or quick snack). If you prefer, ask the driver for a short photo stop at the Hai Van Pass viewpoint along the way (time permitting).

1:30 PM:

Depart Da Nang for Hue. Relax in the vehicle—this is a scenic drive; expect about 1.5-2 hours depending on traffic and stops.

3:00 PM:

Arrive at your Hue hotel (choose a quiet hotel within walking distance of the Citadel with free breakfast, e.g., Ancient Citadel Hotel, Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort if you prefer quieter surroundings). Check in and drop luggage; request a ground-floor room or quiet facing courtyard if available.

3:30 PM:

Freshen up and rest briefly in your room. Use this time to confirm tomorrow's Citadel/tomb visits with the hotel concierge and ask them to arrange a driver or bicycle rental if you prefer independent exploration.

4:00 PM:

Short walk toward the Perfume River and Truong Tien Bridge area. Enjoy first views of Hue's riverside atmosphere and photograph the Citadel walls from across the river.

4:30 PM:

Visit the nearby Dong Ba Market (if still open) for a gentle introduction to local life — browse stalls, see fresh produce, and spot vegetarian snacks like banh beo (steamed rice cakes) and che (sweet soups).

5:15 PM:

Stroll along the Perfume River toward the riverside promenades; many hotels and cafes line the bank—sit at a riverside cafe such as Hue Riverside Boutique Hotel & Spa's riverside area or a local vegetarian-friendly cafe for tea or fresh sugarcane juice.

6:00 PM:

Early vegetarian dinner at Vegetarian Restaurant Nhu Y or Huong Giang Vegetarian (both well-reviewed for Vietnamese vegetarian dishes). Try vegetarian bun bo Hue-style or clay-pot tofu with local herbs.

7:15 PM:

Take a relaxed evening Perfume River walk or short dragon boat cruise (if available) near the Thien Mu Pagoda area for twilight views; ask the hotel to book a short boat ride—this is a calm, atmospheric introduction to Hue's spiritual side.

8:00 PM:

Optional: Attend a short performance of Hue royal music if available at a nearby cultural venue (ask hotel concierge). Otherwise continue wandering quiet streets near your hotel and visit a small tea house for jasmine tea.

9:00 PM:

Return to the hotel. Confirm tomorrow’s pickup time for the Imperial Citadel/tomb itinerary and leave any items needed for an early start out on your room door or with reception.

9:30 PM:

Relax in your room, enjoy the hotel’s complimentary services (free breakfast timing confirmed for morning), and get a good night's sleep to be ready for a full day exploring Hue’s Imperial City and royal tombs tomorrow.

Day 2 · Sat, Jan 10
Hue

Hue: Imperial City & Royal Tombs

6:30 AM:

Wake for a quiet riverside morning; enjoy the hotel’s complimentary breakfast (confirm with reception — many hotels near the Citadel serve from 6:30-7:30).

7:15 AM:

Walk or take a short taxi to the Imperial Citadel entrance (Hue Imperial City) to arrive early and avoid crowds — buy the combined ticket if you plan to visit several sites inside.

7:30 AM:

Explore the Outer and Inner Citadel: walk through Ngo Mon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace and the Forbidden Purple City ruins while your guidebook or audio guide explains royal life.

9:00 AM:

Visit the Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities (inside the Citadel area) to see coronation robes, ceramics and royal artifacts that contextualize the tombs you'll visit later.

10:00 AM:

Coffee break at a nearby vegetarian-friendly cafe such as DMZ Cafe or HUE House Coffee — choose iced Vietnamese coffee or a herbal tea and a light pandan or sticky rice snack.

10:30 AM:

Depart for Khai Dinh Tomb (≈25-30 minute drive). The hotel can arrange a car or motorbike taxi; expect a short scenic drive across the Perfume River.

11:00 AM:

Explore Khai Dinh Tomb’s ornate ceramic mosaics and grand stairways — climb the steps for views and appreciate the blend of Vietnamese and European influences.

12:00 PM:

Lunch at a recommended vegetarian restaurant: Nhu Y Vegetarian or Huong Giang Vegetarian in central Hue — order vegetarian bun bo Hue-style, stir-fried morning glory, tofu claypot and fresh herb plates.

1:00 PM:

After lunch, drive to Minh Mang Tomb (approx. 20-25 minutes). Walk the formal gardens, pavilions and lakes that reflect Emperor Minh Mang’s classical, symmetrical style.

2:15 PM:

Head back toward the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda (15-20 minute drive). Climb the steps to the seven-story pagoda and enjoy panoramic river views.

3:00 PM:

Relax at Thien Mu’s riverside area; if you like, take a short boat ride along the Perfume River (ask the pagoda vendors or hotel to arrange a calm 20-30 minute trip).

3:45 PM:

Return to the city center and stop at Dong Ba Market for light shopping — pick up local vegetarian snacks like banh beo or sesame sweets and browse handicrafts to take home.

4:30 PM:

Visit the An Dinh Palace (Tinh Tam Garden or the nearby French-era villas) en route back to your hotel if you're curious about colonial architecture; otherwise enjoy a riverside cafe.

5:15 PM:

Freshen up at the hotel; rest briefly and change for an evening outing — ask reception to call a taxi for the later river cruise if you want one.

6:00 PM:

Early vegetarian dinner at Le Hanee (vegetarian-friendly menu) or return to Huong Giang Vegetarian to try different dishes — sample clay-pot tofu, vegetable hotpot and fresh spring rolls.

7:30 PM:

Evening Perfume River activity: board a dragon-boat or smaller private boat for a sunset river cruise with traditional Hue royal music (book via hotel or a reputable operator).

8:30 PM:

Stroll along the riverfront near Truong Tien Bridge and stop at a rooftop cafe for jasmine tea; photograph the softly lit Citadel walls and local life along the riverbank.

9:15 PM:

Optional: Attend a short traditional music performance (Hue Court Music) if available at a cultural venue — ask the hotel concierge to check schedules and arrange tickets.

10:00 PM:

Return to your hotel, review plans for tomorrow’s transfer to Da Nang and Ba Na/Marble Mountain visit, and get a good night’s rest.

Day 3 · Sun, Jan 11
Da Nang

Transfer to Da Nang — Marble Mountains & Beach Time

6:30 AM:

Wake, enjoy the hotel's complimentary breakfast (confirm service time) and finish packing for check-out; ask reception to hold any luggage you won't need during the day.

7:15 AM:

Quick morning stroll along the Perfume River or across Truong Tien Bridge for final photos of Hue while waiting for your transfer — confirm pick-up time with the driver/hotel.

8:00 AM:

Check out of your Hue hotel and meet your pre-booked private transfer or shuttle to Da Nang (approx. 1.5-2 hours). Keep water, light snacks and a light jacket for the Hai Van Pass stretch.

9:30 AM:

Optional short stop at the Hai Van Pass viewpoint (if your transfer includes it): stretch legs and take panoramic photos of the coast and mountains before descending toward Da Nang.

11:00 AM:

Arrive in Da Nang and check in to your quiet Da Nang hotel with free breakfast (suggestions: Sanouva Danang Hotel, Vanda Hotel, or a peaceful riverside guesthouse near the city center). Drop luggage and request a room facing the courtyard for less street noise.

11:30 AM:

Freshen up, then head to a nearby vegetarian-friendly lunch: Minh Chay Vegan Restaurant or Loving Hut (both offer local-style vegetarian and vegan options); try vegetarian pho or spring rolls.

12:30 PM:

Depart for Marble Mountains (Ngũ Hành Sơn) — a short 20-30 minute drive. Aim to arrive early to avoid crowds and to see the caves, pagodas and viewpoints comfortably.

1:00 PM:

Explore Marble Mountains: climb steps to Thuy Son peak, visit Tam Thai Pagoda, enter Huyen Khong cave and enjoy skyline views — take it slowly to appreciate the carvings and Buddha shrines.

2:00 PM:

Visit local marble workshops at the base to see artisans carving stone sculptures; look for small souvenirs like marble magnets or a handcrafted keepsake (bargain politely).

2:30 PM:

Return toward My Khe Beach and stop at a seaside cafe for fresh coconut water or iced tea — relax and watch the waves before doing a gentle beach walk.

3:00 PM:

Walk along My Khe Beach (China Beach), enjoy the soft sand and sea breeze; if the water is warm, dip your feet or take a short swim — towel and sun protection recommended.

4:00 PM:

Head back to the hotel to rest, take a shower and change; recharge devices and confirm plans for the evening market visit and any museum timings for tomorrow.

5:00 PM:

Early evening visit to Da Nang Cathedral for exterior photos and then stroll through nearby APEC Sculpture Park along the Han River — enjoy the green spaces and sculptures as the light softens.

6:00 PM:

Dinner at a recommended vegetarian-friendly riverside restaurant: Tinh Tam Vegan, Nhat Chay or The Vegan Garden — sample local dishes like vegetable hotpot, grilled lemongrass tofu and fresh herb platters.

7:30 PM:

Walk to the Da Nang Night Market (or Helio Night Market if preferred) for a lively atmosphere, souvenir stalls and more vegetarian street-food options such as banh trang cuon and fried tofu snacks.

8:30 PM:

Stroll along the Han River waterfront to view the city's illuminated bridges; if it’s a weekend and the Dragon Bridge fire/dragon show is scheduled (Sat/Sun ~9 PM), position yourself for a good view.

9:30 PM:

Return to your hotel, pick up any items left at reception, and confirm tomorrow’s plan (Museum of Cham Sculpture and Da Nang Cathedral / APEC Park visit) with the concierge.

10:00 PM:

Relax in your quiet room, enjoy a cup of herbal tea, and get a good night's sleep ahead of a cultural day in Da Nang tomorrow.

Day 4 · Mon, Jan 12
Da Nang

Da Nang: Culture, Cathedral & Museums

6:30 AM:

Wake up and enjoy the hotel’s complimentary breakfast — try fresh tropical fruit, Vietnamese coffee or a light vegetarian pho if offered to fuel a museum morning.

7:30 AM:

Short riverside walk toward the Museum of Cham Sculpture to arrive near opening time and enjoy cooler morning light for photos of the museum’s exterior and surrounding gardens.

8:00 AM:

Enter the Museum of Cham Sculpture (2/2 Quang Trung) and take a focused 60-90 minute self-guided visit through the Cham statuary, sandstone reliefs and interpretive panels that trace Champa history.

9:30 AM:

Coffee break at a nearby cafe such as 43 Factory Coffee Roaster (or DMZ Cafe) — relax with a plant-based snack and review maps for the next stops (Da Nang Cathedral and APEC Park).

10:00 AM:

Walk or take a short taxi to Da Nang Cathedral (Hen Church) and admire its pink façade and Gothic-renaissance details; take photos and peek inside if a service is not in progress.

10:30 AM:

Stroll from the cathedral to APEC Sculpture Park along the Han River; enjoy sculptures, green spaces and river views while learning about Da Nang’s modern landmarks.

11:15 AM:

Visit the nearby Love Lock Bridge area/Dragon Bridge promenade for more riverside photos and a quick look at the contemporary bridges that define the city skyline.

12:00 PM:

Lunch at Minh Chay Vegan or Loving Hut (both near the city center) — choose local vegetarian specialties such as bun rieu chay, stir-fried morning glory, or a hearty vegan rice plate.

1:00 PM:

Head to the 3D Museum (Art in Paradise Da Nang) for an interactive afternoon of optical-illusion murals and playful photo opportunities — plan 60-75 minutes for the full experience.

2:30 PM:

Short stroll to Wonder Park / Asia Park area (or visit Wonder Park attractions if you prefer quieter exhibits) and enjoy light rides, gardens and cultural installations; this is a good place for fun photos and to rest your feet.

3:30 PM:

Return to your hotel for a rest, shower and to recharge devices; use this window to check Ba Na Hills logistics for the next day and confirm Dragon Bridge weekend showtimes if needed.

4:30 PM:

Tea or early evening snack at The Vegan Garden or Tinh Tam Vegan — order fresh spring rolls, grilled lemongrass tofu or a vegetable hotpot while watching the city soften into golden hour.

5:30 PM:

Leisurely walk along the Han River waterfront, visiting the Love Lock Bridge again if you want a quieter moment to add a lock or take sunset photos of the bridges and cathedral from across the river.

6:30 PM:

Dinner at Nhat Chay or The Vegan Garden riverside — pick a table with river views and savor Vietnamese-style vegetarian dishes, such as clay-pot tofu, fresh herb platters and vegan banh xeo.

7:45 PM:

Head toward the Dragon Bridge to see it illuminated; on weekends (Saturday or Sunday) aim for ~9:00 PM to catch the dragon/fire show — otherwise enjoy the nightly light display and the bridge’s LED choreography.

8:30 PM:

Explore Da Nang Night Market (Helio or Con Market Night Market depending on your preference) for souvenirs, friendly stalls and additional vegetarian street-food options like grilled corn, fried tofu and steamed rice cakes.

9:30 PM:

Stroll back along the river to your hotel, enjoy a nightcap of jasmine tea or a fresh coconut if desired, and confirm tomorrow’s plan (Ba Na Hills full-day trip) with the concierge.

10:00 PM:

Return to your room to relax and sleep — pack a small daypack for tomorrow (sun protection, water, snacks) and set an early alarm for the Ba Na Hills excursion.

Day 5 · Tue, Jan 13
Da Nang

Ba Na Hills Day Trip (Mountain Resort & Golden Bridge)

6:00 AM:

Wake early and enjoy the hotel's complimentary breakfast—choose fruit, coffee/tea and a light savory option to fuel a full-day mountain excursion.

6:30 AM:

Meet your pre-booked transfer or tour operator in the hotel lobby (many hotels arrange pick-up); confirm return time and that your driver knows where to drop you back in Da Nang.

7:00 AM:

Depart for Ba Na Hills (approx. 45-60 minutes depending on traffic); enjoy the coastal-to-mountain drive and the cooler air as you climb toward the resort.

8:00 AM:

Arrive at Ba Na Hills entrance; buy tickets if not pre-purchased and head to the cable car area—expect short queues early, and keep your camera ready for panoramic views.

8:30 AM:

Board the cable car(s) up to the French Village—this multi-stage ride is one of the world’s longest and offers sweeping views of rainforest, clouds and distant coastline.

9:00 AM:

Step off at the Golden Bridge (Cau Vang); walk the iconic bridge held by giant hands, take photos from different angles and enjoy the misty mountain backdrop.

9:30 AM:

Explore the French Village’s streets, flower displays and European-style architecture; visit the main square, small chapels and photo spots before the midday crowds arrive.

10:15 AM:

Visit Linh Ung Pagoda on the Ba Na plateau (or nearby viewpoints) for peaceful gardens and a good vantage point over the resort—brief walk to stretch legs and see local shrines.

11:00 AM:

Head to one of the resort restaurants for an early vegetarian-friendly lunch—La Lavande Restaurant or Buffet areas often have vegetable dishes and can accommodate vegan requests (ask staff).

12:00 PM:

After lunch, ride the cable car to explore additional attractions: Fantasy Park (indoor games and quieter exhibits early in the afternoon) and the Wax Museum if you enjoy light entertainment.

1:00 PM:

Wander the gardens and sculpture trails; seek out quieter viewpoints and photo corners, and stop at small cafes for herbal tea or hot chocolate if the mountain air feels cool.

2:00 PM:

If you enjoy walking, take a gentle hike on one of the marked trails or explore more of the mountain’s temples and stone pathways—keep water and a light jacket with you.

3:00 PM:

Return to the French Village area for a late-afternoon coffee or a vegetarian snack (fruit plates, spring rolls, or tofu dishes) at a terrace cafe while watching clouds drift beneath you.

3:45 PM:

Begin descending by cable car to the lower station; enjoy last sweeping views and prepare for a short bus transfer back toward Da Nang.

4:30 PM:

Depart Ba Na Hills and drive back to Da Nang; take this time to rest in the vehicle and review photos from the day—expect to arrive in the city around early evening.

5:30 PM:

Arrive at your Da Nang hotel and check in (or drop bags if you never left); freshen up and change into comfortable clothes for an evening by the river.

6:15 PM:

Head to a vegetarian-friendly riverside restaurant—The Vegan Garden, Nhat Chay or Minh Chay Vegan are good options—to enjoy a relaxed dinner of Vietnamese-style vegetable dishes and tofu specialties.

7:30 PM:

Stroll along the Han River waterfront to see the city lights; if it's a weekend and scheduled, plan to view the Dragon Bridge fire/dragon show around 9:00 PM (check local listings).

8:15 PM:

If you prefer a livelier scene, visit the Da Nang Night Market or Helio Night Market for souvenir browsing and additional vegetarian street snacks like grilled corn, banh mi chay or fried tofu.

9:30 PM:

Return to your hotel; upload photos, charge devices and lay out clothes and essentials for tomorrow’s short transfer to Hoi An and the start of your Ancient Town explorations.

10:00 PM:

Relax in your quiet room with a cup of herbal tea and a short review of tomorrow’s pickup time; sleep well after a full and memorable day at Ba Na Hills.

Day 6 · Wed, Jan 14
Hoi An

Hoi An Ancient Town: Arrival & Evening Lantern Market

7:00 AM:

Wake, enjoy your hotel’s complimentary breakfast (confirm hours) — choose fresh tropical fruit, bánh mì chay or a light vegetarian pho to fuel a day of exploring Hoi An.

8:00 AM:

Check out of your Da Nang hotel and meet your pre-booked transfer to Hoi An (about 30-45 minutes). Keep your daypack with water, sun protection and a camera for the Ancient Town.

8:45 AM:

Arrive in Hoi An and check in at your quiet accommodation near the Ancient Town with free breakfast (suggestions: Anantara Hoi An, La Siesta Hoi An or a boutique riverside stay). Drop luggage and request a ground-floor or courtyard room if you prefer quiet.

9:15 AM:

Take a gentle walking orientation around the Ancient Town: stroll past the Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall and the colorful riverside shops to get your bearings.

10:00 AM:

Visit the Museum of Trade Ceramics and then the Tan Ky Old House to see traditional wooden architecture — both are compact and give a quick cultural primer on Hoi An’s mercantile past.

11:00 AM:

Stop for a mid-morning refreshment at Reaching Out Tea House (calming atmosphere) or Faifo Coffee for a light vegetarian snack and a cold drink while watching street life.

11:30 AM:

Walk to the nearby Cantonese Assembly Hall and the Confucius Temple (Quang Trieu) to admire ornate roofs and lacquered panels — these historic halls are peaceful and great for photos.

12:30 PM:

Lunch at Minh Hien Vegetarian (well-reviewed vegetarian menu) or Nourish Cafe for vegan bowls and fresh salads; try cao lầu chay (vegetarian cao lầu) or fresh spring rolls with local herbs.

1:30 PM:

Return to your hotel to rest, change into lighter clothes for the afternoon and confirm tonight’s lantern-boat booking with the hotel or a trusted operator (many launches depart from the Thu Bon riverfront).

2:30 PM:

Take a short tuk-tuk or cycle to An Bang Beach (≈15-20 minutes) for some sea air — stroll along the sand, relax under a parasol and enjoy the calmer side of Hoi An away from the tourist core.

3:30 PM:

Enjoy a late-afternoon snack at Soul Kitchen or The Whale where vegetarian options are available; order a coconut drink and a vegetable rice plate while watching the surf.

4:30 PM:

Return to Hoi An Ancient Town and visit local tailors or lantern shops for souvenirs; if you want, have a small custom lantern made or purchase a string of silk lanterns to take home.

5:15 PM:

Freshen up at your hotel and head out early to the riverfront to secure a seat for the evening — stroll along Hoai River to watch sunset colors and the first lanterns being lit.

6:00 PM:

Dinner at Morning Glory or Mango Rooms (both offer vegetarian-friendly Vietnamese dishes) — try vegetarian mì Quảng, fresh herb platters and tofu specialties in a relaxed, atmospheric setting.

7:15 PM:

Meet your lantern-boat operator at the Thu Bon riverfront (book via hotel or a reputable booth). Board a small wooden boat for a tranquil lantern boat ride — you can release a paper lantern with a wish as you float.

7:45 PM:

Drift down the softly lit Hoai River on your lantern boat, watching hundreds of glowing lanterns, paper boats and riverside performances — soak in the magical, photogenic atmosphere.

8:30 PM:

Disembark and wander Hoi An Night Market along Nguyen Hoang Street and the riverside stalls; browse handicrafts, try vegetarian street snacks like bánh ram ít chay and buy a few small souvenirs.

9:15 PM:

Catch the lantern-lit streets for night photos and a calmer stroll through the Ancient Town — stop for jasmine tea at Reaching Out or a dessert of chè at a local vendor to end the evening.

9:45 PM:

Return to your hotel for a relaxing night — if interested, ask the front desk about the Hoi An Memories Show schedule for future nights (it may not run every evening) and confirm tomorrow’s coconut-boat eco tour pickup time.

10:15 PM:

Wind down in your quiet room, charge devices, and set out clothes for tomorrow’s river and beach activities; enjoy a good night’s sleep after a full, lantern-lit arrival day in Hoi An.

Day 7 · Thu, Jan 15
Hoi An

Hoi An: River Activities & An Bang Beach

7:00 AM:

Wake gently and enjoy your hotel’s complimentary breakfast—choose tropical fruit, bánh mì chay or a light vegetarian pho to fuel a full day of river and beach activities.

8:00 AM:

Walk into the Ancient Town for a calm morning view of the Japanese Covered Bridge and riverside shops while the streets are still quiet; pick up bottled water and sunscreen from a nearby convenience store.

8:30 AM:

Meet your lantern-boat operator or guide at the Thu Bon riverfront (pre-book via your hotel if possible) for a morning lantern-boat practice or gentle practice row—this is quieter than the evening and gives a different light for photos.

9:00 AM:

Board a small wooden boat for a guided lantern-boat ride along the Thu Bon River; learn about local river life, watch fishermen and try releasing a practice paper lantern (morning runs are serene and less crowded).

9:45 AM:

Disembark near the riverside and stroll through the morning market stalls—sample vegetarian-friendly snacks like fresh fruit, sesame sweets, or bánh ram ít chay from trusted vendors.

10:15 AM:

Head back to your hotel to pick up beach gear, then take a short taxi or cycle to An Bang Beach (about 15-20 minutes) for a relaxed seaside afternoon.

11:00 AM:

Arrive at An Bang Beach and find a comfortable spot at a beachside cafe such as Soul Kitchen or The Whale; order fresh coconut water and a vegetarian rice or noodle plate to tide you over before swimming.

11:30 AM:

Walk the soft sand, sunbathe or take a refreshing swim in the South China Sea; rent a sunbed or umbrella if you plan to stay longer and keep valuables secure at your hotel or cafe.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed vegetarian lunch at a beachfront restaurant—try grilled lemongrass tofu, vegetable spring rolls and a mixed salad at Soul Kitchen or Nourish to sample Hoi An’s fresh flavors.

1:30 PM:

After lunch, rent a bicycle or short taxi to the nearby water coconut palm waterways for the traditional Hoi An coconut-boat (basket-boat) eco tour; confirm your guide and start time with the operator.

2:00 PM:

Board a circular ‘thung chai’ coconut basket boat for a scenic ride through the water coconut channels—your local guide will explain mangrove ecology, crab farming and traditional riverine life while you enjoy the calm waterways.

2:45 PM:

Disembark at a small riverside village for a short walk, visit a family-run coconut workshop or try a tasted coconut candy; this is a hands-on cultural stop and great for photos.

3:30 PM:

Return to An Bang or Hoi An town and stop at a café such as Reaching Out Tea House or Faifo Coffee for a cooling herbal tea and a vegetarian snack while you dry off and rest.

4:00 PM:

Freshen up at your hotel and take a short nap or relax—use this time to confirm bookings for the Hoi An Memories Show if you want to attend (check that night’s schedule) and reserve a lantern-boat for the evening if desired.

5:00 PM:

Head back to the Ancient Town to wander the artisan shops and lantern makers; consider buying a silk lantern or having a small custom lantern made to take home as a keepsake.

6:00 PM:

Dinner at a well-regarded vegetarian-friendly restaurant such as Morning Glory, Mango Rooms, or Minh Hien Vegetarian—order vegetarian cao lầu, fresh spring rolls and a herb plate for authentic Hoi An flavors.

7:15 PM:

If the Hoi An Memories Show is on tonight and you booked it, head to the performance venue for the spectacular cultural show; otherwise prepare for a twilight lantern-boat ride on the Thu Bon River.

7:30 PM:

Board a twilight lantern boat (if not attending the Memories Show)—light and release a paper lantern on the river for a personal wish and photograph the glowing riverside as hundreds of lanterns appear.

8:15 PM:

Disembark and wander the Hoi An Night Market along Nguyen Hoang Street and the riverfront; browse handmade crafts, try vegetarian street snacks like chè or sesame sweets, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

9:00 PM:

Find a quiet riverside bench or a tea house such as Reaching Out to savor jasmine tea and the lantern-lit reflections, soaking in the magical ambiance before heading back to your hotel.

9:30 PM:

Return to your hotel; wash up, charge devices and lay out plans for tomorrow’s My Son excursion or a final Da Nang evening — confirm pickup time with reception and rest well.

Day 8 · Fri, Jan 16
My Son / Da Nang

My Son Sanctuary Excursion & Farewell Evening in Da Nang

6:00 AM:

Wake early at your Hoi An hotel and enjoy the complimentary breakfast (fresh fruit, bánh mì chay or vegetarian pho). Confirm the day-trip pickup with reception and pack sunscreen, a hat, water, and your camera.

6:45 AM:

Meet your pre-booked My Son tour or private driver in the hotel lobby; drivers typically depart Hoi An around this time for cooler travel and lighter crowds at the sanctuary.

7:15 AM:

Depart Hoi An for My Son Sanctuary (approx. 1-1.25 hours). Enjoy the countryside drive and ask your driver/guide about Champa history to set context for the ruins you’ll visit.

8:30 AM:

Arrive at My Son Visitor Centre; buy tickets if not included and meet your onsite guide for an orientation — the cooler morning is ideal for walking the temple complex.

8:45 AM:

Begin a guided tour of the main temple clusters (A, B and C groups), listening to stories about Champa kings, architectural motifs, and the sanctuary’s role in regional trade and ritual life.

10:00 AM:

Continue exploring quieter ruins and lesser-visited towers with your guide; photograph carved lintels, bas-reliefs and the red-brick structures framed by jungle — wear comfortable shoes for uneven paths.

11:00 AM:

Visit the small onsite museum to see recovered artifacts and contextual displays about Champa culture, then take a short break with water and a light vegetarian snack you packed or purchased at the visitor centre.

11:30 AM:

Board the vehicle for the return drive toward Da Nang; if your tour includes a local village stop, enjoy a brief cultural visit or handicraft demonstration en route back to the city.

12:45 PM:

Arrive in Da Nang and check in (or drop bags) at your quiet Da Nang hotel with free breakfast; request a riverside or courtyard room if you prefer a peaceful stay for your final night.

1:15 PM:

Lunch at Minh Chay Vegan or The Vegan Garden near the city centre — order vegetarian noodle dishes, clay-pot tofu and fresh herb platters to recharge after the morning’s exploration.

2:15 PM:

Head to Linh Ung Pagoda (Lady Buddha) at the Son Tra Peninsula; the drive offers coastal views and the large white statue is a serene spot for photos and a short contemplative walk.

3:00 PM:

Explore the Linh Ung complex and nearby viewpoints; enjoy the sea breeze and panoramic vistas of Da Nang Bay, then stroll some of the Son Tra scenic paths if time and energy allow.

3:45 PM:

Drive or taxi to the Love Lock Bridge / Han River promenade area for relaxed riverside photos and a gentle walk among the city’s sculptural installations and bridges.

4:15 PM:

Visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture if you missed it earlier or stop by the APEC Sculpture Park for a short exploration of modern art and landscaped grounds near the river.

5:00 PM:

Return to your hotel to freshen up, change into evening clothes, and prepare for your farewell dinner and the nighttime river attractions; charge devices and collect any items for the evening.

6:00 PM:

Dinner at a riverside vegetarian-friendly restaurant such as Nhat Chay, The Vegan Garden or Tinh Tam Vegan — choose a table with river or bridge views and savor a leisurely Vietnamese-style vegetarian meal.

7:30 PM:

Stroll along the Han River waterfront toward the Dragon Bridge and the weekend gathering spots; browse the Da Nang Night Market stalls for last-minute souvenirs and vegetarian treats like grilled corn and sweet chè.

8:30 PM:

Find a comfortable vantage point on the riverbank or a bridge to watch the city lights; if tonight is Saturday or Sunday, stay for the Dragon Bridge’s dragon/fire show around 9:00 PM for a memorable farewell spectacle.

9:30 PM:

After the show, enjoy a slow riverside walk to digest dinner and soak in the illuminated bridges (Love Lock Bridge, Dragon Bridge), or return to the night market for a final snack or souvenir purchase.

10:15 PM:

Head back to your hotel; pack checked luggage for tomorrow’s departure, confirm your airport transfer for the next day’s 13:00 flight, and leave out travel documents and any items you’ll need for check-out.

10:45 PM:

Relax in your quiet room with a calming cup of tea, review photos from the trip, and set an alarm for a comfortable wake time tomorrow. Enjoy a final peaceful night in Da Nang before departure.

Day 9 · Sat, Jan 17
Da Nang

Departure — Last-minute Sights & Transfer to Airport

6:30 AM:

Wake, enjoy your hotel's complimentary breakfast (confirm early-service time) — choose fruit, bánh mì chay or a light vegetarian pho to fuel the morning and double-check your airport transfer time.

7:00 AM:

Pack remaining items, place checked luggage at reception for the pre-arranged airport pickup if you need to store carry-ons temporarily, and confirm the transfer driver’s name and pickup location with the front desk.

7:30 AM:

Take a short riverside stroll along the Han River or a quick beach walk at My Khe to soak up the last daylight and capture one final set of photos of Da Nang’s bridges and coastline.

8:00 AM:

Visit APEC Sculpture Park or the Love Lock Bridge for a peaceful 30-45 minute walk and final souvenir photos; if you prefer museums, a quick 45-minute return to the Museum of Cham Sculpture is an option before it gets busy.

9:00 AM:

Return to the hotel to freshen up, use the last of hotel wi-fi to check in for your flight, and collect any remaining personal items from the safe and room.

9:30 AM:

Enjoy a leisurely mid-morning snack or second coffee at The Vegan Garden, Minh Chay Vegan or a nearby café — order a light vegetable rice plate or fresh coconut water for the road.

10:00 AM:

Make a quick stop at a nearby market or gift shop (Con Market or the riverside souvenir stalls) to pick up any last-minute snacks, herbal teas or small keepsakes like silk lanterns or marble magnets.

10:30 AM:

Return to the hotel lobby, settle the bill, confirm the driver is on the way (allowing time for traffic), and hand over any remaining room keys or access cards to reception.

11:00 AM:

Meet your pre-booked transfer driver in the hotel lobby for the journey to Da Nang International Airport (DAD); aim to depart around this time to allow comfortable time for check-in and security for a 1:00 PM departure.

11:45 AM:

Arrive at Da Nang Airport, unload luggage and proceed to your airline’s check-in counter or bag drop; use the airport restrooms and pick up any last-minute vegetarian snacks from the terminal shops.

12:15 PM:

Clear security and immigration formalities; locate your departure gate, charge devices at a charging station, and relax with a cup of tea or bottled water while reviewing photos and notes from the trip.

12:40 PM:

Boarding begins (approximate); have travel documents and boarding pass ready and purchase a light vegetarian sandwich or fruit box from the gate cafe if you’d like something for the flight.

1:00 PM:

Depart Da Nang — take one last look at your itinerary photos, set your watch to your destination time zone if applicable, and enjoy the flight home.

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