Da Nang vs Hue vs Hoi An. Which City to Visit First?

Are you planning your first trip to Central Vietnam and you can’t decide whether to visit Da Nang, Hoi An, or Hue? These are the three must-visit cities in Central Vietnam, each offering its own charm from modern beach life to romantic lantern-lit streets and royal heritage.
Let’s explore this Central Vietnam comparison with VIETDOVE Travel so you’ll be able to choose the city that suits your travel style.

Da Nang: The Modern Adventurer

If Da Nang were a person, it would be that energetic friend who wants to do something different.
Highlights: Visit beaches such as My Khe, the stunning Dragon Bridge, and the modernized city of a coastal city.
Why you should visit: Da Nang is perfect for first-timers, travelers who like to sunbathe in the morning and enjoy nightlife in the evening.

Best for: Travelers who like beaches, food, and easy transportation (airport, train station, highways).
Tip: Da Nang is also famous for the Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge.

Hoi An: The Romantic Dreamer

When you step into Hoi An, it feels like you’ve stepped into a fairytale alive. If it had a voice, it would silently tell old stories of silk merchants and lantern festivals. You can’t miss this beautiful trading port in South East Asia
Highlights: UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, lanterns everywhere, cafés by the riverside, fitted clothing.
Why to visit. The most atmospheric choice, walking through its streets feels like travelling back in time.
Best for: Couples, culture travellers, slow travellers, photographers.
Tip: Don’t miss the lantern-lit nights of Hoi An, Hoi An glows like nowhere else in Vietnam

Hue: The Noble Historian

The former imperial capital, Hue is lined with palaces, temples, and war memories.
Highlights: Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, royal tombs such as Minh Mang and Khải Định, and the soft Perfume River.
Why to go: A perfect stop for the traveller that appreciates places of historical and cultural account as well as reflection.
Best for: History lovers, spiritual travellers, travellers curious about Vietnam’s royal implementation.
💡 Tip. Indulge in Hue’s imperial food served food to emperors.

Central Vietnam City Comparison at a Glance

Here is a quick head to head comparison of Da Nang vs Hue vs Hoi An for your consideration 

Which Central Vietnam City First?

This is your first venture? 
I want modern comfort + beaches? Da Nang.
I want romance + history? Hoi An.
I want depth + culture? Hue.
But really, the best answer is why not all three? They are close enough that many travelers roll them together as a trip.

FAQs: Da Nang vs Hue vs Hoi An

Which city should I go first?

Da Nang: Beaches + Nightlife.
Hoi An: Romantic heritage.
Hue: Historical + Cultural.

Can I visit Hue on a day trip from Da Nang?

Yes, it's only a 2.5-3 hour travel time through Hai Van Pass.

Is Hoi An better than Da Nang?

Hoi An is charming & romantic, Da Nang is modern and lively, so maybe just visit both since so many travelers do.

Can I do all three in one trip?

Most itineraries do 5-7 days and combine Da Nang, Hoi An via Hue.

Conclusion

Choosing between Da Nang vs Hue vs Hoi An is like picking between three different styles of travel. 
To summarise at VIET DOVE Travel we’d recommend combining them in one trip.