4 Day Vietnam Hue to Hoi An
From the impressive imperial capital of Hue, to the beguiling city of Hoi An. Be immersed in the sights, sounds and aromas of these two incredible Vietnamese cities.
Get set for an imperial odyssey through the centre of enchanting Vietnam. The heart of this diverse country boasts several World Heritage sites; from the romantic ancient town of Hoi An, packed full of artisans and tailors, to the walled citadel and decadent emperor tombs of Hue. Become lost in the allure of rich aromas, divine food, vibrant market places and welcoming locals. Along with a variety of fun inclusions, including walking and cycling adventures and a hands-on Vietnamese cooking lesson, this all-encompassing short break covers the highlights of central Vietnam in style and promises to be a memorable journey.
- Visit the magical Hue
- Be immersed in the city of Hoi An
- Experience the sights, sounds and aromas
- See World Heritage sites
- Cooking lesson
- 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
- Hotel (3 nts)
- Private Bus
- Small group (1-12)
- Meet welcoming locals
- Trip length:
- 4 Days
- Group size:
- Max 12
- Start:
- Hue
- End:
- Hoi An
- Vehicle:
- Private Bus, Bicycle, Boat
- Sleep:
- Hotel
Itinerary
Day 1 Hue Citadel/Rural Tour
Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam.
You will be picked up from your centrally located hotel in Hue between 8.00-8.30am.
A welcome pack containing a welcome letter, your trip itinerary, relevant tickets, a feedback card and general information on the country will be waiting for you at your hotel. Please ask your hotel's receptionist for the Intrepid welcome pack upon arrival.
Packed with temples, tombs, palaces and pagodas, Hue is the gateway to the treasures of Vietnam's royal past and a must-stop on any itinerary.
Start the day with a tour of the colourful Dong Ba market, which will energize the senses with its sights, sounds and smells. This is the ideal place to soak up everyday Vietnamese life, and your local guide will show you some of the traditional foods and introduce you to the local vendors. With full tummies, head out into the streets and wander over to the Citadel. It’s within these 2m-thick and 10km-long walls that you’ll find several of the city’s best sights, from the many ornate pagodas to the Forbidden Purple City.
Stop for lunch in a local nunnery. Enjoy a traditional meal and grab the chance to chat with the nuns to learn more about Buddhism and gain an insight into their daily lives.
After lunch, take a short bus ride through the stunning surrounds, passing rice paddies and small towns, before arriving at a village that specialises in making incense. Learn all about this ancient art before continuing on to one of the impressive emperor’s tombs.
During free time pay a visit to Bao Quoc Pagoda (optional and at additional cost), a sprawling temple complex perched on a hill overlooking the Perfume River. After admiring its seven tiers head to Tiger Arena where duels between elephants and tigers were arranged for the entertainment of the Emperor right up until 1904.
After a day taking in the many sights, end with a relaxing afternoon cruise along the Perfume River. Take in the magic of this meandering river before returning to the centre of the city.
Included Activities:
Hue - Imperial citadel
Hue - Royal tomb
Hue - Nunnery Lunch
Hue - Perfume River boat ride
Accommodation:
Hotel (1 nt)
Day 2 Hue/Tam Giang Lagoon
Escape the hustle of Hue on a journey to Quang Dien, a peaceful village known for its beautiful architecture, stunning surrounds and friendly locals. Take a bus out to the village, winding through quaint towns and passing the majestic Tam Giang Lagoon en route.
On arrival, jump onboard a bike to get acquainted with the town, stopping to explore a traditional old house and to chat with the locals. Call at the village school to meet the kids (dependant on class scheduling) before heading to the vegetable field to learn about the crops that are fundamental to the local community. Meet one of the farmers to learn about the important role agriculture and sustainability play in this society.
Roll up your sleeves to lend a hand with the garden tasks, from watering the vegetables to helping harvest crops. Head to a local family’s home to enjoy a traditional lunch of seafood, vegetables and herbs, all purchased from the village market or sourced from the landlady’s own garden.
Enjoy this shared meal, then walk it off with a stroll through town or simply relax at the house. Fully refreshed it’s time to hit the water with a sampan cruise on Tam Giang Lagoon. Stop at a fish and prawn farm and help the fishermen haul up their catch ready to sell at market. Get a lesson in how to throw a fish net, then try your luck to catch a fish in the lagoon.
After a day of farming and fishing, spend the afternoon relaxing on the shores of the Quang Dien Wild beach, which is known for its white sand and clear waters. This quiet spot is situated well away from the crowds, and is the perfect place to relax and unwind. If the water proves to be chilly, head inland to the hot springs near Thuan An beach.
Either way, you’re guaranteed to end your day relaxed after experiencing life in the Vietnamese countryside. Drag yourself away from the warm waters for the journey back to Hue.
Included Activities:
Hue - Tam Giang tour & Sampan
Accommodation:
Hotel (1 nt)
Day 3 Hoi An Walking Tour/Cooking Class
Travelling by bus, head south through coastal rice paddies before traversing the spectacularly mountainous Hai Van Pass. After a brief visit to the beautiful China Beach (known officially as My Khe Beach), arrive at Hoi An (approx. 4 hours).
Meet at 2 pm. at the Google Café at 10 Phan Chu Trinh Street (on the corner of Phan Chu Trinh and Nguyen Hue Streets) for the start of your walking tour of Hoi An.
Discover the history and flavours of Vietnam during a walking and cooking tour of Hoi An. This is a place oozing with charm and, having largely escaped the destruction of successive wars, its streets and architecture are a delight to explore. After being picked up head straight for the Old Town ready to explore its ancient streets.
Now a UNESCO World Heritage site the Old Town is packed with buildings of historical and cultural significance and boasts a number of streets that are off-limits to cars. Stroll past the many Chinese Assembly Halls - from the Cantonese Chinese Congregation with its impressive main altar to the Hainan Chinese Congregation which serves as a memorial to 107 merchants from Hainan Island who were mistaken for pirates and killed during the reign of Emperor Tu Duc. Stop by the Japanese Covered Bridge which was constructed in the 1590s by the town’s Japanese community to link them with the Chinese quarters across the stream.
At the end of the walking tour head to a family run restaurant for a cooking class. The chef will run through the range of delicious dishes that you will recreate, then it’s time to hit the local market to stock up on all the fresh produce needed to create the feast. Learn how to choose the best supplies and discover some of the less-familiar ingredients, then head back to the restaurant ready to cook.
Pick up recipes that are sure to wow your family and friends and discover the tricks to making some of the legendary Vietnamese dishes at home. End the day by sitting down to feast on all the delicious dishes you’ve created.
Included Activities:
Hoi An - Ancient town walking tour
cooking class
Accommodation:
Hotel (1 nt)
Day 4 Hoi An Countryside Bike Ride/Boat Trip
After a free morning, you reconvene at 2 pm. at the Google Café at 10 Phan Chu Trinh Street (on the corner of Phan Chu Trinh and Nguyen Hue Streets) to continue your exploration of Hoi An.
Spend a free morning visiting the Hoi An tailors, or explore other parts of the town.
This afternoon our adventure continues taking to the streets and the waterways on a unique boat and bike tour, weaving through the back streets to reach the country lanes that lie outside Hoi An’s borders.
Follow country lane-ways to reach some of the villages that are dotted throughout the region, stopping to talk to the locals and learn more about life in this part of Vietnam. Pass emerald rice paddies, snaking waterways and plenty of waving children as you discover some of the beautiful landscapes found in this region.
Follow your guide to the banks of the Thu Bon River to take to the waterways for a different perspective on the surrounding landscape. Cruise the river, heading out to one of the small islands where a barbecue feast awaits. Watch the sun set over the river and the bobbing fishing boats while feasting on local specialities.
Jump back in the boat and catch the last of the sun’s rays as they disappear behind the rice paddies before heading back to Hoi An. Watch the twinkling lights of the city appear as you approach the dock, before heading through the bustling waterfront crowds to head back into town.
Your trip finishes at approximately 6.30pm. No accommodation is included tonight.
Included Activities:
Hoi An - BBQ dinner
What to bring
CLOTHING
- Comfortable walking shoes ( no flip flops! ). Sandles are OK. Bring hiking shoes for trips including trekking.
- Warm jacket and long pants. Night times temperatures can vary.
- Long Sleeve shirt for protection from the Sun and Mosquitoes
- Shorts and T Shirts for daytime hikes and walks
- Swimwear
- Hat and sunglasses
EQUIPMENT / OTHER
- Sunscreen
- Towel & toiletries
- Insect repellent
- Refillable water bottle
- Sleeping Bag
- Mp3 Player / iPod
- Rechargers
- Torch
- Camera
- Bincolars
- Medication ( if applicable )
What is included
TRANSPORT
- Private Bus
- Boat
- Bicycle
ACCOMMODATION
- 3 nights Hotel
On some trips accommodation is available only on a shared basis with other travellers, who might not necessarily be Intrepid travellers. Arrangements vary depending on the trip from twin to multishare, so refer to the daily itinerary for more details on your accommodation. In some situations you may have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure you have your own room.
MEALS
- 3 Breakfasts
- 1 Lunch
- 2 Dinners
Budget for meals not included:
USD 80.00
Trip Info
Preparing for the trip
What should I pack?
Once you’ve confirmed your booking, we send out trip-specific pre-departure information with a general packing list as well as a list of any other special items you may need to bring.
What immunisations do I need?
Immunisations vary from country to country and we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations. In some places anti-malaria medication may also be required. Some vaccines need to be administered a few weeks before departure, so allow plenty of time. It is also important that you obtain a certificate of vaccination and you must carry this with you on your trip. Please note that in some cases a certificate of vaccination is compulsory in order to obtain a visa.
Do I need to take any medical supplies?
We recommend you carry personal medical items for managing common minor ailments such as colds, diarrhoea, blisters and sore throats etc. Travellers who take regular medication should take an appropriate supply. Asthma sufferers should ensure that they have an adequate supply of their routine medicine, as some major cities have high levels of smog.
How much luggage do I need to take?
As a general rule, the less luggage you bring with you, the better. You’ll probably be buying souvenirs and the like along the way, so leave some space! There will be times when you will be carrying your luggage on and off public transport, so you should consider travelling with a backpack or a soft duffel bag. Suitcases aren’t suitable for these types of holidays. Each airline has specific rules as to luggage allowances, so check directly with them or ask your travel consultant to confirm for you.
Do I need a sleeping bag?
Sometimes. This varies depending on which trip you are booking on, and we will let you know in the info pack that we send to you on confirmation of your booking.
How do I get a visa?
Please note that visas for Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The Visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. For the most up to date information please check your governments foreign ministry website or with your travel agent as rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself. For most travellers there will probably be an embassy and consulate in the country that you live in. *Please have extra USD on hand in case the customs officials charge more at the border crossing.Please be aware that you will require two clean pages (minimum) in your passport and at least six months validity.
Do I need travel insurance?
It is compulsory that you have comprehensive travel insurance. Domestic government medical insurance and private health schemes will not cover you in most overseas countries. Your policy MUST cover medical costs in case of hospitalisation, emergency travel and repatriation. Once you have paid your deposit or full payment, certain fees will apply if you cancel your holiday. Insurance should therefore be organised at the time of booking to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances that would require you to cancel before travelling. Your tour guide will need two copies of your policy - the Tour Guide and our Ground Operator will keep one copy each in the unlikely event of an emergency. The copies must show the policy number and the emergency hotline phone number.
Does the tour price included international flights?
The prices quoted on the site do not include international flights.
Where does the tour start?
Tours will always start in a specified hotel and we will let you know exactly when you need to be at that hotel. We can organise airport transfers, if you wish.
Can I book accommodation at the start and/or end of the tour?
Yes. In all cases, we can organise extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour. Just let us know and we’ll organise a quote for you.
What form of transport do we use around the Himalayas and Nepal?
As a general rule, we travel on local transport, mixing with the locals and getting involved. In some places, the best way to explore is on foot, in others we’ll jump on boats, bemos, canoes, camels, tuk-tuks, songthaews… you get the picture. The style of transport will be as varied as it is fun…. we don’t like sealing you up in a 50-seater coach. Sometimes, however, local transport is not practical – you just can’t jump on a No. 96 bus in northern Thailand – so in these instances, we hire our own vehicles.
Private tours and families
Can I organise a private tour?
Of course! If there’s a minimum of two people, pick an existing itinerary and contact us and we can arrange the trip as a private tour. Or if you’re after something a bit different, if you have a minimum of four people for a trip, contact us and we can put together a tailored and personally designed itinerary for you
Booking the trip
Do I need to book online?
No. Whilst this site is designed to make booking as easy as possible, we appreciate that sometimes it’s nice to talk to a human being, so give us a call! We can do the whole booking procedure over the phone.
How do I know if the tour is available?
To see the scheduled departure dates just click the “Check Dates” button on the top right of the page. To ensure the scheduled departure is going ahead send us an email to info@worldlypeople.org and we get back to you within a couple of hours.
How far in advance do I need to book?
There is no guarantee as to when other people will book and hence when the tour will fill up. Our advice is that as soon as you know which one you want to book, don’t delay - put your name down as soon as possible, that way you won’t be disappointed.However, we can usually take bookings for most of our tours right up until the departure date if there are spaces left, so have a look at the availability, and if there’s still space we’ll gladly take your booking
When is final payment on tours due ( for deposit payments )
The final payment is due in full 56 days before the departure of your trip. If you’ve booked your trip within 56 days of the departure date, full payment is needed.
Who travels with us
How fit do I need to be?
Our holidays are fun and can be enjoyed by anyone who is reasonably fit. However, some trips visit remote areas where medical facilities are very limited or non-existent, so you must be in good health. Some trips may include a trekking element, so some pre-trek preparation will be an advantage. There are some other factors to consider: bumpy roads, dust, traffic, delays and unfamiliar customs and cultures may all create additional demands. You will also have to carry your own bags so bear that in mind when deciding if you really need that other pair of shoes.
Is this trip for me?
These trips appeal to people who want the fun, freedom and flexibility of independent travel, but want to make the most of their time and prefer that someone else takes care of the hassles and organisation – queuing for tickets and looking for a hotel at night can be a real drag! These trips are also for people who want to get a deeper understanding of the region they visit - our innovative itineraries and exceptional team leaders make this happen. Or perhaps you are a single traveller and like the safety and companionship of travelling with a few others, sharing the experiences and adventures together.
The majority of travellers are in their 20s and 30s, but if you’re on the ‘other side’ of 40, then that’s great too! Please bear in mind that these trips are designed for travellers and our trips are go, go, go! Essential on your list of things to pack are an open mind, sense of adventure and an easygoing attitude. On these trips you don’t pay for unnecessary extras – that’s why the prices are so good. We include many of the must see sights, but keep plenty of free time aside so you can go on your own way and make your own discoveries. Your lodging will be basic, but clean and comfortable, locally run, and usually reflecting the character of the region. Aside from being a more interesting place to stay than a bland internationally-run hotel, this also helps to keep the cost down. You might spend a night or two in a ‘home stay’, lodge or hacienda - these could be fairly basic, but certainly a real highlight, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture. Many of the tours have several long travelling days, often on local transport, and sometimes on rough roads. The trips are packed with highlights and the pace is fast, so we can see as much as possible - although there’s always time to chill out, enjoy a cold drink and watch the world go by if that’s what you feel like doing.
Is this a typical group tour?
Most travellers consider themselves independent travellers, rather than typical group travellers. This is just as well because these tours are a long way from your typical group tour - freedom and flexibility are fundamental! There are usually around 8 people on a trip (the maximum is 14), and you’ll find that the excellent tour prices offer a real alternative to backpacking. Our travellers want to explore places at a grassroots level, and have a great time while they do this.
Im a single travellers, is that OK?
Most of our travellers are ‘flying solo’ and like the thought of travelling with like-minded souls. Your tour will have a strong social element and you'll almost certainly come home with some new friends. Some of the tours offer single supplement option. You can see these prices under the “Join Tour” drop down menu.
Who will I travel with?
Every group is different, however you'll generally travel with a mix of nationalities from all over the world.
Are there any age limits?
There is no specific upper age limit on our tours; they’re more of a suggestion. The majority of travellers are in their 20s and 30s, but if you are on the ‘other side’ of 40, then that’s great too! Essential on your list of things to pack are an open mind, sense of adventure and an easy-going attitude.
In general, we do not take people under the age of 18. If you are interested in taking your family away, let us know and we’ll see if we can organise a private departure for you.
How large are the groups?
The maximum group size is 13 passengers per vehicle or tour guide, with the average being 9.
Cost and Fees
What's included in the tour price?
Please refer to the “what’s included” section on your tour page for the most up to date information.
Will I need additional money?
Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. It’s handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.
What is a "Trip Kitty"?
The trip kitty is to be paid in cash (in the currency indicated) at the start of your trip. Give it directly to your local leader, who can then pay for items locally throughout your trip, eg. meals. Having a trip kitty also helps us to pass savings onto you.
Can I pay the local payment in local currency?
The local payment needs to be paid in the currency indicated in the itinerary and final invoice. Most tours will have this included in the tour price. Please check the included section above.
How much spending money do I need?
Not a lot! Your accommodation, transport, local leader and some meals are included. Depending on where you are, you'll generally get by on about US$25 a day, covering meals, drinks and souvenirs.
What is the best way to take money with me?
A combination of cash, an ATM card and perhaps a credit card as back-up is good. Travellers cheques are a safe way to carry money, however travellers can find it difficult in some areas to exchange them.
As a general rule, American dollars are accepted throughout the world, but make sure you have small denomination bills, and that they are not ripped or marked, as this may affect your ability to change them. And remember to check with your bank about using your bank cards overseas.
Do I need to tip the local guide?
Your tour guide works hard to ensure you have a great trip, so please don’t hold back if you feel they have earned a tip for their efforts. If you would like to reward your tour guide for his or her services, you can choose to do so individually or make a group presentation at the end of the tour.
Whilst on tour
Can I wash my laundry?
Many of the places we stay have laundry facilities nearby, especially within cities. It is also a good idea to bring some ‘travel wash’, and a travel clothes line, to wash the necessities. This will help you cut down on packing space, and hence the amount you have to lug around with you!
Will my accommodation change unexpectedly?
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
Can I get on the internet whilst on tour?
Internet cafés are plentiful throughout much of the world, particularly in major cities – an internet email address and a webcam/phone account (such as skype) are good ways of staying in touch.
Will my mobile phone work?
Do you really want to take your phone with you? One of the biggest pleasures about getting away is leaving telephones and computers behind! However, if you really do want to take your phone with you, there is a good chance that it will work in most major cities. Check with your service provider before you go if they have a reciprocal agreement with the countries you are travelling to, and make sure you remember to get international roaming turned on.
Can I do a section of the tour and not the whole trip?
Unfortunately it is not possible to just do sections of the tour. Some of the longer tours are made up of smaller tours completed back-to-back, and hence might be possible to book separately. It may be possible to arrange a private charter for you from a section of the tour so please contact us.
Do I need to be able to swim?
Several of our holidays include travel by boat, ship or canoe. It is assumed by us that you can swim, unless you advise us otherwise. If you cannot swim, you must let us know, so we can let your tour leader know. However, swimming is by no means compulsory at any stage in our trips.
Can I bring gifts for people?
If you want to give something to the local people please bring something useful like pens or school books, not lollies. The other thing we insist upon is that gifts are distributed in an organised and responsible manner - either through the headmaster of a school or ask your tour leader what the most beneficial approach is. Some children, and even adults, may ask for things on the street, in villages, etc, and although giving a ‘present’ may give both of you a brief moment of joy, handing things out like this only encourages begging and is destructive in the long term.
How much free time is there?
It is an integral part of all our trips to give you enough free time to explore by yourself. Many of your most memorable experiences will occur when you branch out and do your own thing. We understand that different people have different interests, so we build in free time to make your own discoveries. The framework is in place and the details are taken care of, but on many days, you decide what you want to see and do. After all, you might be thoroughly sick and tired of temples, while another group member just can’t get enough of them. It’s your holiday, so it’s your choice.
Will there be time to explore the cities we start and finish in? Or should I arrange extra time?
With all of our tours, we strongly believe we have well balanced itineraries to enable you to explore all the places you are visiting. There is generally no need to arrive early or leave later. However, there is always more to discover and we can arrange additional accommodation, should you need it.
What standard of accommodation should I expect?
Your lodging will be basic, but clean and comfortable, locally run, and usually reflecting the character of the region. Aside from being a more interesting place to stay than a bland internationally-run hotel, this also helps to keep the cost down and by supporting local businesses you help the local economy. You might also spend a night or two in a ‘home stay’, lodge or hacienda - these could be fairly basic, but will almost certainly end up being one of the highlights, offering a chance to really immerse yourself in the local culture.
What will the food be like?
Experiencing the local flavours is definitely a highlight on our trips. Our local tour guides take you to out of the way places and experience the best and most interesting cuisine of the cultures you visit. The guides’ local knowledge will mean you can decipher menus, get useful tips on what to try, and visit all the most interesting restaurants and markets. There will always be a very strong local influence in the food, which we believe is what travel is all about.
What about if I am a vegetarian? Or if I have a special diet?
No problem at all! The only important thing is that you let us know in advance, so we can inform our local tour guides. That way, they can look out for you and make sure you are looked after in the local restaurants. It is important to realise that in some places your diet might be slightly limited, as meat can form an integral part of the local diet. If in doubt, ask our consultants for their first-hand knowledge of each individual destination.
Are there any long travelling days?
Many of the tours have several long travelling days, often on local transport, and sometimes on rough roads. The trips are packed with highlights and the pace is fast, so we can see as much as possible. Although there’s always time to chill out, enjoy a cold drink and watch the world go by if that’s what you feel like doing. The trip notes for each trip will give you a strong indication of the travelling times for each day.
What will the weather be like?
Check our weather widget on the right side of the page for up to date information on the weather conditions. Otherwise, send us an email and we will let you know how things are at the moment!
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