The city of Hue has long been one of the country's foremost cultural, religious, and educational centers. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1993. Restoration and preservation work continues with tourism by Vietnamese and foreigners alike providing an important contribution. This tour starts with a glance at Hue's major historical sites before taking you along the coast for some stunning ocean vistas, and a few other scenic stops before reaching Hoi An, the fantastically well preserved ancient port town and World Heritage Site.

DESTINATIONS

• A selection of Hue's historic jewels
• Exploring the scenic route to Hoi An, Lang Co beach and Hai Van pass
• Danang, its Cham museum, and the Marble Mountain
• Hoi An, the gorgeous ancient port town

HIGHLIGHTS

• Relax while boating on the river and strolling around the citadel
• Learn about the Cham civilization
• Visit the Marble Mountain and enter the lovely World Heritage Site of Hoi An

[Day 1] Hue Arrival
Meals: N/A | Accommodation: hotel

We pick you up at Hue Airport or train station upon your arrival and transfer to your hotel.

In the afternoon, we'll tour the Imperial Citadel. This site enclosed the land of eight villages and covers 6km2 - sufficient area to house the Emperor and his family, courtiers, officials, concubines, bodyguards, and servants. There are ten gates through the four massive walls of the citadel, and although many are in poor condition, the city overall remains undamaged by war or natural disasters. The complex has been recognized as a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage site. You'll also have time to experience daily life of Hue's locals with a visit to the Dong Ba market before returning to your hotel for a good night's rest.

[Day 2] Hue Exploration
Meals: breakfast and lunch | Accommodation: hotel

The morning starts with a motorized sampan ride down the Perfume River to the towering yet delightful Thien Mu Pagoda, considered to be the finest pagoda in Hue, and an icon throughout Vietnam. Car transfer from the pagoda to the tomb of emperor Ming Mang to enjoy a walk through a courtyard guarded by statues of mandarins, horses and elephants. Carefully planned by the emperor himself and built shortly after his death in formal Chinese style, it's opulent and exotic, and a good example of classic Sino-Vietnamese architecture.

After a tasty lunch to sample classic Hue cuisine, we visit the tomb of the controversial emperor Khai Dinh - an elaborate concrete construction which reflects an interesting combination of Vietnamese and European features from the time of Vietnam's last emperors.
En route back to Hue, we'll pause at the Ngoc Son Princess 'Garden House', where the owner will be pleased to explain the geomantic (feng shui) principles underlying the design and construction. We'll then finish the drive back to your hotel for some time on your own to stroll and relax.

[Day 3] Hue – Hoi An
Meals: breakfast | Accommodation: N/A

Your car now heads to Hoi An via the dramatic Hai Van pass. The panoramic views are excellent - you should be able to see Lang Co beach and village, and the lagoon far below, with the city of Da Nang spread out before you to the south.

You'll visit the Cham Museum in Da Nang which houses the largest displays of Cham art anywhere in the world. We will also drive to the nearby Marble Mountains: five limestone peaks with marble outcrops known for their beauty and their cave network. At the foot of Marble Mountain, an important religious site since the time of the Chams, you can see many artisans crafting fine marble objects. Trip ends at your hotel in Hoi An.

Note: N/A

PRICE PER PERSON (Valid from 01/01/2013 to 31/12/2013)

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Included

• Accommodation in Hue
• Meals as specified in the program
• Travel in an appropriate air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver
• Boat trip to Thien Mu pagoda
• The services of an experienced English-speaking guide
• All entrance fees
• VAT and other taxes

Not included

• Accommodation in Hoi An for the second day
• Flight or train tickets to Hue.
• Beverages, gratuities and personal expenses.
• Camera fees (if any)
• Insurance
• Surcharge in peak season (Christmas & New Year)

ACCOMMODATION

Mid-range
• Hue: Gold hotel - Deluxe room Or similar hotel

Superior
• Hue: Camellia hotel - Sky View room or similar hotel

Deluxe
• Hue: Indochine Palace - Deluxe room or similar hotel