How to Plan the Perfect Heritage Trip in Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam is a treasure of history and culture, with 3 world-renowned UNESCO sites in Central Vietnam: the Hue Imperial City, the My Son Sanctuary, and the Ancient Town of Hoi An.
If you heard about them but have not yet visited them, now is the time. In this article, VIET DOVE Travel introduces you to practical tips and helpful information to make exploring these heritage sites as rewarding as possible.

How to Explore Central Vietnam’s UNESCO Heritage

Hue Imperial City. Step Into Royal Grandeur

Why Visit?

• Living History: You step into the last feudal capital of Vietnam, and experience living history as you walk the Citadel & Forbidden Purple City & royal tomb.
• Balance with Nature: Hue’s architecture is a perfect blend of Eastern philosophy and feng shui, enlivened with the water of the Huong River.
• Hue Imperial City Tips
• Time needed: At least 1 full day. You can spend the morning exploring the Imperial City and the Khai Dinh Tomb, along with Thien Mu Pagoda in the afternoon. Most two-day visits allow for a bigger exploration.
• Smart transport: Renting a motorbike or using Grab (taxis) are good options for getting to the dispersed tombs. With a local tour (VIET DOVE Travel), you get that local flavor of culture.
• Best time to visit: The best time to visit is early morning (7-9 am) when it's cooler and quieter.
• Food experience: Don’t miss trying Hue’s royal-inspired dishes, combining imperial flavors with local authenticity.

My Son Sanctuary. Sacred Wonder of the Cham Kingdom

Reasons to Visit?

• Unique Architecture: Cham brickwork, sculptures, and temples that date back from the 4th to - 13th centuries will amaze you.
• Spiritual Past: My Son Sanctuary was a huge site for Hinduism, and even today comes across as being mysterious and holy in its valley setting.

My Son Sanctuary Travel Guide

• Best time to go: For better weather, it's best to visit in early morning (6–8 am) or later afternoon (3–5 pm).
• Getting there: 40 km from Hoi An, a motorbike, taxi, or guided tour can reach the site.
• Exploring around: The shuttle buggy is from the entrance to the ruins. Groups B, C, and D are the most original ruins.
• Extra flavor: Don't miss the traditional Cham dance performance, usually held at the designated stage near the ruins.

Hoi An Ancient Town. Timeless City

Reasons to Visit?

• Living Museum: A rare, well-preserved trading port from the 17th century.
• Cultural Blend: Explore the mix of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese influences, especially at the Japanese Covered Bridge and assembly halls.
• Romantic Vibe: Nighttime comes alive as the old town transforms into a magical habitat of lighted lanterns.

Hoi An Travel Tips

• Best time: Trying to see the town at night, which generally looks best around late afternoon and evening; arriving at around 3 pm and walking through the ancient houses and old streets.
• Tickets: Your entrance ticket includes access to five heritage spots of your choice, such as: Tan Ky Old House, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and Japanese Bridge.
• Getting there: Some of them are within walking or cycling distance. There are areas with no motorbikes.
• Special experiences: Hoi An Memories Show, or my favorite, releasing lanterns on the Hoai River on a full moon night.

Building your “Heritage Triangle” Itinerary

Recommended travel pattern: Hue (1 day) → Da Nang (stop)-over → Hoi An (2 days) → My Son (1/2 day) back.
Inter-city transport: Can be an open bus or train. The Hue - Da Nang railway (through Hai Van Pass) is reputedly one of the most scenic in the world.
Tickets & costs: Find combo/bundled tickets for sites to save costs.

Final thought

Visiting these UNESCO sites in Central Vietnam means more than sightseeing; you will step into history, the core and spirit of the Vietnamese roots of a deep cultural mix of cultures.
Ready to discover Vietnam’s rich heritage firsthand? VIET DOVE Travel offers curated tours to Hue, My Son, and Hoi An guided by locals who bring history to life.
👉Contact us for a free consultation or check out our UNESCO Heritage Tour Package now!