Planning Your Trip: How Many Days in Hue and Hoi An?
Hue and Hoi An are two of the most beloved destinations in Central Vietnam – rich in history, bursting with charm, and filled with unforgettable flavors. It’s no surprise that both local and international travelers fall in love with them at first sight. But then comes the big question: But how many days in Hue and Hoi An is enough to really soak it all in? Don’t worry – this guide will help you plan just the right itinerary so you can enjoy the best of Hue and Hoi An without feeling rushed.
How many days in Hue and Hoi An is enough?
To truly experience the essence of both Hue and Hoi An, you’ll typically need around 3 to 4 days. This is enough time to uncover the rich cultural layers of Hue – from the Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda to the poetic Perfume River – while also enjoying the timeless charm of Hoi An’s Ancient Town, its lantern-lit evenings, traditional craft villages, and flavorful street food.
Of course, how many days in Hue and Hoi An you should spend depends on your interests, travel pace, and the kind of memories you want to create. Whether it’s a short getaway or a deeper journey, Hue and Hoi An promise moments that stay with you long after the trip ends.
Read more: How many days in Hoi An? A completed guide for you to choose
Suggested 3 Days 2 Nights Itinerary in Hue and Hoi An
If you’re wondering how many days in Hue and Hoi An is enough to feel their magic without feeling rushed – 3 days and 2 nights is a great choice. This itinerary captures the essence of both cities in a short but enriching journey.
Day 1 – Hue
Start your journey in Hue with a walk through the Imperial City – once home to emperors, now a quiet echo of royal grandeur. Visit Thai Hoa Palace, admire dragon carvings, and sense the solemn grace of the Forbidden Purple City.
In the afternoon, visit Thien Mu Pagoda Perched on Hà Khê hill and overlooking the Perfume River, which has been a spiritual symbol of Hue for centuries. Its iconic seven-story tower – Phước Duyên – isn’t just photogenic, it’s poetic. Legends say the pagoda was built after a celestial old lady (thiên nữ) appeared on the hill, prophesying the birth of a great spiritual site.
As the sun dips, explore the Tomb of Tu Duc – Unlike other royal tombs, Tu Duc’s tomb isn’t grand in scale, but in soul. It’s the retreat of a poet-king, designed more as a place to live in peace than to rest in death. Tu Duc, who loved poetry and philosophy, created this space to mirror his melancholy and love for nature.
Day 2 – Coastal Journey to Hoi An
Travel south through the majestic Hai Van Pass – where the mountains meet the sea. Crossing Hai Van feels like more than just moving from Hue to Da Nang and Hoi An; it’s like closing one chapter and beginning another. Make a quick stop at the Marble Mountains, where ancient temples are carved into cave walls and stone steps lead to breathtaking, sky-high views.
Arriving in Hoi An by early afternoon feels like stepping into a living painting. Its Ancient Town glows with golden walls, wooden shutters, and a gentle charm that slows the heart. Once a thriving port city, Hoi An welcomed traders from Japan, China, and Europe centuries ago. That multicultural legacy still lingers today: in the curved rooftops, in tea houses where you can sip both bánh ít and espresso.
The Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 1590s, isn’t just a picturesque structure isn’t only a photogenic spot, but also a symbol of the town’s resilience and connection.” across cultures and time.
Day 3 – Hoi An
For those who seek something softer than sightseeing, Tra Que Village offers a rare kind of peace. Just a short bike ride from town, this herb-growing village greets you with basil-scented air and genuine smiles.
Before you leave, take one last plunge into the energy of the Hoi An Central Market – full of vibrant spice stalls, handmade souvenirs, and colorful chaos. Vendors calling out prices, chili reds and turmeric yellows painting the stalls, the smell of fish sauce and fresh herbs competing for attention. A little shopping here is the perfect way to wrap up your short but sweet escape.
Explore 4 Days 3 Nights Itinerary in Hue and Hoi An
Day 1 – Hidden Corners of Hue
Start your trip by exploring the peaceful Thien Lam Pagoda or the poetic Vong Canh Hill, offering panoramic views of the Perfume River and royal tombs from above. It’s not just a viewpoint, it’s a place to exhale and imagine ancient processions drifting on river mist.
Spend your afternoon walking around Dong Ba Market – a sensory overload of street food, fabric stalls, and local chatter. Try nem lụi fresh off the grill or a cup of chè Huế, because the quickest way to understand a city is to eat what its people crave.
And when night falls, climb aboard a dragon boat and drift down the river to the sound of royal court music. The melodies echo old stories – of kings, that still smells faintly of incense and frangipani.
Day 2 – Where Time Moves Slower
Among Hue’s royal tombs, Gia Long’s mausoleum is often overlooked – and that’s exactly what makes it magical. Tucked deep in a pine forest and far from the tourist flow, this tomb doesn’t dazzle with grandeur. Instead, it moves you with its stillness. Emperor Gia Long, founder of the Nguyễn dynasty, chose to rest here in solitude, surrounded by nature rather than pomp.
In contrast, Thanh Toan Village offers a glimpse of everyday poetry. Its covered bridge, built in the 18th century by a noblewoman who wanted to ease villagers’ travel.
In the afternoon, take a bike ride through rice paddies or join a local craft workshop to learn how to make conical hats or incense sticks, not for souvenirs, but for the joy of working with your hands in a place where craft still lives.
Day 3 – Into the Heart of Hoi An
Depart for Hoi An in the morning, take a break in Da Nang to admire My Khe Beach or visit the Cham Sculpture Museum if you enjoy ancient art.
After a scenic ride south, stop by Cam Thanh Coconut Village — a side of Hoi An that tourists often miss. Here, the river turns green under swaying palms, and – hop on a basket boat, glide through coconut groves, and join local fishermen for hands-on fun.
Hoi An’s charm is subtle, but strong. You’ll feel it as the lanterns begin to glow, one by one, across the Ancient Town. Under golden light, taste mì Quảng or coconut pancakes from a humble street vendor, and realize: sometimes the best dinners are eaten on plastic stools with your sleeves rolled up.
Day 4 – Slow Down in the Countryside
Wake up early for a peaceful walk through Cam Chau or Cam Nam – quiet neighborhoods lined with lush gardens and friendly smiles. You can also join a Hoi An cooking class, learning to make traditional dishes from scratch and visiting local markets with the chef.
Before leaving, spend some time at Reaching Out Tea House — a serene space run by hearing-impaired locals, where silence enhances every sip. It’s a gentle, memorable way to end your journey through Hue and Hoi An — no matter how many days in hue and hoi an you choose to stay.
If You Have 5 Days and 4 Nights in Hue and Hoi An, What Should You Do?
Day 1 – Dive Into Hue’s Artistic Side
Begin with a visit to the Hue Museum of Royal Fine Arts, then explore Le Ba Dang Art Foundation, a hidden gem that showcases the fusion of Vietnamese soul and global imagination.The works here blend East and West, war and peace, loss and light – just like Hue itself.
In the afternoon, join a calligraphy or traditional painting class for an immersive cultural touch. Finish the day with a sunset coffee at a rooftop café overlooking the Perfume River.
Day 2 – Journey to the Ruins
Take a day trip to the ruins of the ancient Champa capital in Quang Tri or My Son Sanctuary (UNESCO site). Though time and war have weathered its towers, there’s a quiet dignity here – a testament to resilience, artistry, and ancient devotion.
While My Son is closer to Hoi An, it can be visited en route or as a side trip if you love archaeology and spiritual landscapes. Return to Hue for a peaceful night at a local homestay nestled near a garden or lagoon.
Day 3 – Travel South, Relax Well
Before heading south, stop by the Tam Giang Lagoon, one of Southeast Asia’s largest brackish water areas. Locals here live in rhythm with the tides, casting nets and stories alike. Having lunch on a floating house, with the taste of fresh seafood and the scent of salt in the air, offers a rare kind of peace – one you carry long after you leave.
Arriving in Hoi An, choose a quiet boutique hotel or riverside resort for some downtime before an evening boat ride under the lantern-lit sky.
Day 4 – Island Adventures and Sunset Views
On the fourth day, take a morning boat to the Cham Islands, just a short ride from Hoi An. These islands offer a chance to slip away from it all, with turquoise waters, snorkeling, sunbathing, and fresh seafood waiting to be enjoyed. It’s a peaceful escape from the bustling streets – a moment of stillness amid the sea.
Back onshore, catch the sunset from a rooftop bar, where the Thu Bon River glows like melted gold and Hoi An’s rooftops hum with a history that never truly sleeps.
Day 5 – Savor the Last Flavors of Hoi An
Spend your final day at your own pace: revisit a favorite café, wander through pottery workshops in Thanh Ha Village, or get last-minute tailoring done. For a unique lunch, try Hội An Market’s seafood corner, where you can pick your ingredients and watch them cooked fresh.
Read more: Hoi An or Sapa: Which One Wins Your Heart?
Some Notes When Traveling to Hoi An and Hue
- Best time to visit: February to April and August to October offer the most pleasant weather. Avoid the rainy season (especially in Hue) and the scorching heat of peak summer.
- What to wear: Light, breathable clothes for daytime adventures; modest outfits (covered shoulders and knees) when visiting temples or royal sites. Don’t forget comfy shoes!
- Money matters: Cash is essential for markets and small vendors, even though credit cards work in hotels and restaurants. ATMs are easy to find. A local SIM card helps with connectivity.
- Getting around: In Hoi An, bicycles or motorbikes are great for exploring the countryside. In Hue, taxis or Grab (ride-hailing app) are more convenient. The Hai Van Pass route between the two cities is scenic – perfect for a motorbike or car ride.
- Cultural tips: Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases like “xin chào” (hello) or “cảm ơn” (thank you). Smile often and be polite when bargaining in markets.
- Must-try food:
Hue: bún bò Huế, bánh bèo, cơm hến.
Hoi An: cao lầu, white rose dumplings, bánh mì Phượng.
Join a cooking class if you love food and want hands-on cultural experiences.
- Sustainability tips: Bring a refillable water bottle, avoid plastic bags, and support local, ethical businesses. Both towns are pushing for greener tourism – you can be part of it.
No matter how many days in Hue and Hoi An you decide to spend, these destinations will leave you with stories to tell – of ancient cities, lantern-lit nights, and rich local flavors. Make your journey even more special with a stay at Bliss Hoi An. Nestled between Hue and Hoi An, our resort offers the perfect blend of comfort, culture, and coastal charm. Book now to relax, explore, and experience Central Vietnam at its finest.
