From the former Royal Capital of Hue, to the ancient port town of Hoi An and the Cham ruins of My Son, exploring central Vietnam is a truly contrasting journey. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Vietnam, as you visit these three destinations boasting UNESCO World Heritage status.

In Hue, the mesmerizing tombs and mausoleums of the last emperors of Vietnam reveal fascinating insights into the lives of the imperial families and their subjects. The ancient citadel reflects the pomp and ceremony of the dynastic rulers as well as the scars of many years of turmoil, both ancient and modern (the Royal Citadel was badly damaged in the latter stages of the war). Yet, it still retains a sense of grace and majesty even today. Modern Hue is a delightful city of wide boulevards and period buildings set in a picture-postcard landscape. The university is renowned as one of the country's finest, and the local cuisine is regarded by many as the best in Vietnam.

Hoi An is a destination with two faces - the charming, old-world trading port of narrow streets and traditional houses, and the beach with its new resorts and long stretch of clean white sand. In keeping with Hoi An's heritage as a trading port, the town's tiny shophouses now host a range of craft shops and artisans, including some of Asia's best bespoke tailors.

Just south of Hoi An is the temple complex at My Son. These tower-temples served as the seat of the Champa Kingdom for the majority of its existence between the 4th and 13th centuries. The sanctuary is situated in an impressive location surrounded by hills, around 35 km inland from the coast at Hoi An. Whilst not as spectacular as the great Angkor complexes in Cambodia, the remaining structures are atmospheric enough to conjure images of the majesty of the Champa Kingdom and most visitors agree that a visit is well worthwhile.

Arrive in Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, and transfer to your hotel.

Overnight in Hue.

Start your day with a visit to the Imperial Citadel where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled between 1802 and 1945.  After exploring the ruins of this wonderful monument take a cyclo through the 'Old City' to Tinh Tam Lake where the Emperors used to come to relax. This afternoon, visit Mu (Celestial Lady) Pagoda overlooking the Perfume River. End the day at Khai Dinh's Tomb which boasts a traditional Vietnamese design with a European touch, making it unique from the other tombs in Hue. Before heading back to your hotel take time to stroll around Dong Ba Market with your guide. 

Overnight in Hue. 

Depart Hue for the drive to Hoi An, a major Asian trading port in the 17th and 18th centuries whose architecture and relaxed lifestyle has changed little over the years. This scenic drive passes through the fishing village of Lang Co before climbing over the Pass of Ocean Clouds. Along the way, stop in Danang to visit the Cham Museum, which contains the finest collection of Cham sculptures in the world. Upon arrival in Hoi An, take a guided walking tour of the Hoi An ancient town centre.   

Overnight in Hoi An. 

After breakfast, depart for a half day trip to visit the capital and religious centre of the former Champa Kingdom, My Son. Here, in a lush green valley, are dozens of red brick towers and sanctuaries dating from between the 7^th and 13^th centuries. Visit another former Champa capital, Tra Kieu, before returning to Hoi An where the afternoon is at your leisure, perhaps browsing for souvenirs in the town's art galleries and silk shops, or maybe cycling to the nearby Cua Dai Beach.

Overnight in Hoi An. 

The morning is at leisure until transfer to Danang Airport for onward flight.