If you’re dreaming about a short getaway that blends culture, history, scenery and the magic of world-class fireworks, this 3-day, 2-night Da Nang – Hoi An – Hue trip is your sign. It’s the best of Central Vietnam wrapped into one easy plan—plus front-row moments at Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) 2025.
Why this itinerary is a no-brainer
Central Vietnam hits different. Each city has its own mood:
- Da Nang: young, lively, festival energy, iconic bridges over the Han River
- Hoi An: timeless lantern-lit alleys and heritage houses
- Hue: poetic and regal, home to the Nguyen imperial legacy
Time your trip for DIFF 2025 and your evenings light up—literally. And because this is a guided tour, your hotels, rides, tickets and meals are all handled. You just show up and soak it in.
A glittering night scene on the Han River
The plan: 3 days, 2 nights
Day 1: Da Nang city vibes and Son Tra Peninsula
- Morning pickup at Da Nang International Airport or the train station, then head straight to Son Tra Peninsula—often called the city’s “green lung.”
- Visit Linh Ung Pagoda with its 67-meter Lady Buddha statue watching over the sea. From high above, the coastline unfurls beneath you—calm, blue and beautiful.
- Afternoon at Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son). Take the modern elevator to explore caves, ancient pagodas and sweeping viewpoints without breaking too much of a sweat.
- Evening: grab your spot by the Han River and let DIFF 2025 steal the show. Music, lights, color—and fireworks choreography that feels like a dream.
Fireworks painting the Da Nang sky during DIFF
Day 2: Hoi An Old Town and a taste of local life
- After breakfast, it’s a 45-minute ride to Hoi An Ancient Town (a UNESCO World Heritage site).
- Stroll the Japanese Covered Bridge, peek into Tan Ky Ancient House, and step inside Phuc Kien Assembly Hall—each telling stories of trade, migration, and craftsmanship.
- Afternoon: experience rural charm at Tra Que vegetable village. Try simple farm activities and learn to cook signature Central dishes like nem lui and crispy banh xeo with locals guiding you. Slow, wholesome, and delicious.
Hoi An—lanterns, heritage and soothing river breezes
Day 3: Hue’s Imperial heritage and Perfume River moments
- Early departure for Hue via the scenic Hai Van Pass (about 2.5 hours).
- Explore the Imperial City: Ngo Mon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, and the private royal quarters in the Forbidden Purple City—an elegant journey through Vietnam’s last dynasty.
- Visit Thien Mu Pagoda by the Perfume River, famous for its seven-story Phuoc Duyen tower.
- Glide along the river on a dragon boat while enjoying traditional Hue songs—gentle, poetic and very Hue.
- End with Khai Dinh’s Tomb, a striking East–West fusion of architecture and intricate art.
Hue—serene, stately, endlessly photogenic
DIFF 2025: The fireworks festival you’ll talk about for years
- Dates: May 31 to July 12, 2025
- Theme: “Da Nang – New Era”
- Teams slated to participate include Vietnam (two teams), South Korea, China, Portugal, Poland, Italy, Finland, the UK and Canada.
- New twist this year: an AR experience via the Sun Paradise Land app lets you dive into 3D visuals that sync with performances—next-level immersion.
- Getting there: ride-hailing service Xanh SM is offering promo code DIFF2025 for the grand finale night (July 12) with 15% off (up to 50,000 VND) on Xanh Car and Xanh Premium rides to/from the DIFF venue when booked in their app.
A sky full of color over the Han River
Note: Lineups, timings and promos can change—always double-check a week before your show night.
What’s included (typical full-service tours)
Transport and stays
- Comfortable limousines or coaches (AC, bottled water; Wi-Fi on some routes)
- Professional drivers familiar with the Hai Van Pass and scenic routes
- Two nights in well-located 3–5 star hotels (city or river/sea views depending on package)
- Twin/double rooms with standard amenities; single supplement available
Meals, tickets and guiding
- Daily hotel breakfast
- Curated lunches and dinners highlighting Central specialties (vegetarian/other dietary needs available with advance notice)
- Entrance fees to key sites typically covered:
- Marble Mountains
- Hoi An Ancient Town
- Hue Imperial City
- Thien Mu Pagoda
- Knowledgeable local guides who bring history, culture and legends to life
Food note: Sample dishes often include cao lau, com ga (Hoi An chicken rice), bun bo Hue, banh khoai and fresh seafood. Ask your guide for the best spots for coffee and chè (Vietnamese desserts).
How much should you budget?
Prices vary by season, hotel class, group size and fireworks seating tier (DIFF tickets often range from about 1,000,000 to 4,000,000 VND per seat). Peak pricing applies during DIFF.
- 3-star standard
- Roughly 3,800,000–7,000,000 VND per person (groups ~20–25)
- Clean, central hotels; modern 16-seat limousine vans
- 4-star comfort
- Roughly 5,500,000–8,000,000 VND per person
- Upgraded vehicles (9–12-seat limos), better views, richer menus
- Often includes priority viewing areas for fireworks, sometimes with spa perks
- 5-star luxury
- Roughly 14,800,000–18,000,000 VND per person
- Private Mercedes/BMW transfers, top-tier hotels
- Buffet seafood dinners and fireworks viewing from a boat on the Han River with an English-speaking guide
Tips to save:
- Book 4–8 weeks early for DIFF weekends
- Ask about weekday departures
- Look for early-bird or bundle discounts (10–15% is common outside peak nights)
Important: Packages and rates change. Review the final inclusions, seating tiers and cancellation terms before you pay.
How to choose a reliable tour provider
- Check licensing and track record: prioritize agencies with at least 5 years of operation and strong, recent customer reviews.
- Read the contract carefully: hotels (by name), transport type, meal details, included/excluded fees and refund policy should be clearly stated—avoid vague “3-star equivalent” language without specifics.
- Compare fairly: if a price seems too low, it may hide add-ons (forced shopping stops, downgraded meals, missing tickets). Balance value and credibility.
- Scan reviews with photos: look for consistent praise about time management, guides, cleanliness and meal quality.
Save this checklist before you book
What to pack for 3D2N with fireworks
- Clothing: breathable outfits for hot days, a light layer for evenings; grippy walking shoes for Marble Mountains and Hue’s citadel
- Sun protection: SPF 50+, hat, sunglasses; insect repellent for garden areas and evening boat rides
- Essentials: ID/passport, travel insurance details, some cash for small purchases; keep copies of important documents separate
- Health kit: basics like pain relievers, motion-sickness pills, band-aids; any personal prescriptions
- Camera/phone: fireworks are fast—use burst mode and bring a power bank
FAQs
- Best time to go?
- February to August is generally sunny; DIFF runs from late May to mid-July. For fireworks, align your trip with a show night or the grand finale.
- Is it family- and senior-friendly?
- Yes. Elevators operate at Marble Mountains, and pacing can be adjusted. Flag mobility needs early so your guide can help.
- Can I tweak the itinerary?
- Group tours are less flexible. Private tours can customize meal spots, timing and add-ons (e.g., spa time, more beach time).
- Any extra costs to expect?
- Personal drinks, spa/massage, souvenirs, laundry, minibar, and customary tips for guides/drivers. Fireworks upgrades or boat viewing may cost extra.
- What’s the cancellation policy like?
- Commonly tiered (e.g., 70–80% refund if canceled 15+ days out, dropping closer to departure). Weather or force majeure policies vary by operator.
Where to book safely
- Established agencies: Saigontourist, Vietravel, Fiditour, Ben Thanh Tourist—good coverage, clearer policies, 24/7 support in many cases
- Trusted platforms: Klook, Traveloka, Agoda—easy price comparisons and buyer protection; always read recent reviews and check ratings
- Hotel concierge: if you’re already staying in Da Nang, some resorts can arrange reputable tours and sometimes offer in-house perks
Book with agencies that show clear itineraries, real reviews and transparent policies
Quick safety and planning notes
- Fireworks nights get crowded—arrive early and keep valuables close
- Hydrate in the heat; schedule indoor breaks midday if you’re sensitive to sun
- Respect dress codes at temples and pagodas (shoulders/knees covered)
- Always verify DIFF dates, team schedules and seat categories before purchasing
Final word
A Da Nang – Hoi An – Hue 3D2N trip during DIFF 2025 is the kind of short break that feels big: sweeping sea views, lantern-lit evenings, royal history—and fireworks that light up your memory. Lock in your dates, book early for the best seats, and get ready to fall for Central Vietnam in the brightest way possible.