The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary for Da Nang and Hoi An: A Detailed Guide
Planning a short trip to Da Nang and Hoi An? These two cities in Central Vietnam offer a great mix of beautiful beaches, rich history, and cultural charm. In just three days, you can experience both modern Da Nang and the ancient town of Hoi An, taking in scenic landscapes, unique landmarks, and delicious local cuisine. Here’s a perfect 3-day itinerary, complete with time slots, so you can make the most of your visit to these two gems of Central Vietnam.
Day 1: Explore Da Nang’s Landmarks and Beaches
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM: Breakfast in Da Nang
Start your day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast. Try a local favorite, bánh mì (Vietnamese baguette) or phở (noodle soup), at one of Da Nang’s many street-side cafes or local eateries.
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Marble Mountains
After breakfast, head to the Marble Mountains, a short drive from the city center. These five marble and limestone hills are home to caves, tunnels, and pagodas. Take the elevator or climb the steps to explore the Huyen Khong Cave, Tam Thai Pagoda, and other attractions. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Travel tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the climb and bring water, as the weather can be warm even in the morning.
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM: My Khe Beach
Next, head to My Khe Beach, one of the most famous beaches in Vietnam. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the beach or take a swim in the clear, calm waters. If you’re up for it, you can rent a surfboard or simply lounge on the beach.
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Lunch by the Beach
For lunch, visit one of the beachside seafood restaurants to try Da Nang’s renowned fresh seafood. Dishes like grilled prawns, clams in lemongrass, and squid are local specialties.
3:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Dragon Bridge and Love Bridge
After lunch, visit Dragon Bridge, one of Da Nang’s iconic landmarks. If you’re here on a weekend, you can come back later in the evening to see the dragon breathe fire and water at 9:00 PM. Nearby, the Love Bridge offers a romantic spot with great views of the Han River.
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Visit Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula
In the late afternoon, drive up to Son Tra Peninsula to visit Linh Ung Pagoda. This temple features a massive 67-meter-high statue of the Goddess of Mercy overlooking the sea. The panoramic view from the temple is spectacular, especially as the sun begins to set.
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Dinner in Da Nang
End your day with dinner at one of Da Nang’s top restaurants. Try local dishes like bún chả cá (fish cake noodles) or mì Quảng (turmeric noodles with pork and shrimp).
9:00 PM: Dragon Bridge Show (If it’s a Weekend)
If you’re in Da Nang on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, return to Dragon Bridge for the 9:00 PM show where the dragon breathes fire and water—a must-see spectacle for first-time visitors.
Day 2: Discover Hoi An’s Ancient Charm
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM: Breakfast in Da Nang
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe. If you’re leaving for Hoi An this morning, take some time to savor another traditional dish like bánh cuốn (steamed rice rolls).
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Drive to Hoi An
Take a 45-minute drive from Da Nang to Hoi An. If you hire a car or taxi, you can relax while taking in the scenic views of Central Vietnam along the way.
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Explore Hoi An Ancient Town
Start your exploration of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the lantern-lit streets, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, and explore ancient buildings like the Tan Ky Old House and Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese.
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Stop at one of Hoi An’s cozy restaurants for lunch. Try the local specialty cao lầu (noodles with pork and greens) or white rose dumplings.
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Visit Hoi An’s Tailor Shops or Take a Lantern-Making Class
Spend your afternoon getting fitted for tailor-made clothing at one of Hoi An’s famous tailor shops. Alternatively, you can join a traditional lantern-making class, where you’ll learn how to craft Hoi An’s signature lanterns as a souvenir.
4:30 PM – 6:00 PM: Explore the Countryside by Bicycle
Rent a bicycle and take a leisurely ride through the rice paddies and villages surrounding Hoi An. Head to Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you can see local farming practices and even participate if you’re interested.
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM: Dinner by the Riverside
As evening falls, dine at one of the riverside restaurants in Hoi An. Enjoy Vietnamese dishes like banh xeo (crispy pancakes) or fish in banana leaf while soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the lantern-lit river.
8:00 PM – 9:30 PM: Hoi An Lantern Festival (if it’s the 14th day of the lunar month)
If you’re visiting during the Hoi An Lantern Festival, you’re in for a treat. On the 14th day of every lunar month, the streets of Hoi An glow with thousands of colorful lanterns. You can release a floating lantern on the river for good luck or simply enjoy the magical atmosphere.
Day 3: Cultural and Outdoor Activities in Hoi An
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM: Breakfast in Hoi An
Enjoy a light breakfast at a local cafe or your hotel. Hoi An’s cafes are known for serving excellent Vietnamese coffee, so this is a great time to try a cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk).
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Take a Boat Trip on the Thu Bon River
Start your last day with a peaceful boat trip on the Thu Bon River. You’ll glide through serene waters, passing local fishing villages and beautiful scenery. This is a great way to experience the traditional side of Hoi An and see the surrounding countryside from a different perspective.
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM: Visit a Local Market and Take a Cooking Class
After your boat trip, visit the Hoi An Central Market where you can browse stalls selling fresh produce, spices, and local goods. Many cooking schools in Hoi An offer market tours followed by cooking classes where you’ll learn to prepare classic Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls, pho, and banh xeo.
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Lunch (Enjoy Your Homemade Dishes)
After the cooking class, enjoy the delicious meal you’ve prepared yourself. This is a great way to not only savor Vietnamese cuisine but also take home some cooking skills as a lasting memory.
3:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Visit An Bang Beach
In the afternoon, head to An Bang Beach, a quieter, less crowded beach near Hoi An. Take a stroll, relax on the sandy shores, or enjoy a refreshing dip in the sea. If you’d like, you can grab a drink or snack at one of the beachside bars.
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Return to Da Nang
Drive back to Da Nang in the early evening to catch your flight or continue exploring the city. If you have time, stop at a local cafe for one last cup of Vietnamese coffee or grab a quick dinner before your departure.
Additional Travel Tips
- Transportation: Da Nang and Hoi An are close enough for easy travel. You can hire a private car, take a taxi, or use ride-hailing apps like Grab to get between the two cities. Get in touch with us when you need support, we offer all transportations and guides if you need.
- Packing Essentials: Light, breathable clothing is recommended, especially if you visit during the warmer months. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
- Timing: If you’re visiting during the dry season (February to August), you’ll enjoy sunny skies, while the rainy season (September to January) brings cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
Conclusion
With this 3-day itinerary, you can explore the best of Da Nang and Hoi An, from ancient landmarks and cultural experiences to relaxing beaches and scenic countryside. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or natural beauty, this itinerary offers a perfect balance for an unforgettable short trip.
