Things to do in North Central Coast
Discover the best attractions and experiences North Central Coast has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient citadels, temple ruins and historic sites that tell the story of central Vietnam.
Hue Imperial City (The Citadel)
A vast fortress complex within Hue's UNESCO-listed Citadel, home to emperors and royal palaces.
My Son Sanctuary
Ancient Hindu temple ruins set in a lush valley, renowned for Cham culture and architecture.
Ho Dynasty Citadel
A 14th-century fortress with restored towers and moats offering medieval Vietnam history.
Lam Kinh Historic Site
Ancient royal citadel and battlefield site in Thanh Hoa with pagodas and monuments.
Museums
Regional art, archaeology and local history are showcased across coastal museums.
Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture
Impressive collection of Cham sculpture and artifacts from central Vietnam.
Da Nang Fine Arts Museum
Exhibits of modern and traditional Vietnamese art from the region.
Quang Binh Museum
Regional history and natural history displays in Dong Hoi.
Hue Royal Antiquities Museum
Artifacts from the Nguyen dynasty detailing royal life in Hue.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sights and panoramic pagodas dot the landscape along rivers and mountains.
Thien Mu Pagoda
Iconic seven-story pagoda on the Perfume River, a symbol of Hue.
Linh Ung Pagoda (Da Nang)
Buddhist temple on Son Tra Mountain with panoramic city views and the Lady Buddha statue.
National & Theme Parks
Karst wonders, forests and waterfalls await in the region’s protected areas.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
UNESCO-listed karst landscape with vast caves and jungle trails.
Paradise Cave (Thien Duong Cave)
One of Vietnam's most spectacular cave systems, lit for fairy-tale exploration.
Bach Ma National Park
Lush forested park with waterfalls and diverse wildlife near Hue.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant districts and markets where local life unfolds amid rivers and coastline.
Hue Old Town / Imperial City area
Historic neighborhood around the Citadel with traditional architecture and riverside views.
Hue's Dong Ba Market area
Bustling market district offering local foods, crafts and everyday life.
Da Nang Han Riverfront
Riverside district with cafes, bridges and skyline views by the water.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy scenic and cultural experiences without an entrance fee.
Perfume River stroll
Walk along the river in Hue and watch boats drift by at dusk.
Lang Co Beach
Long white-sand shore with turquoise water and mountain backdrops.
My Khe Beach
Relax on Da Nang’s popular city beach with easy access and soft sand.
Hai Van Pass viewpoints
Catch dramatic coastal panoramas from the scenic mountain road.
Gastronomy
Central Vietnamese flavors shine with hearty noodles, seafood and street bites.
Bun Bo Hue
Spicy beef noodle soup from Hue with deep flavors and aromatic herbs.
Mi Quang
Fragrant turmeric noodles with pork, shrimp and peanuts in a small broth.
Banh Xeo Hue
Savory Hue pancake folded with greens and herbs, wrapped in rice papers.
Lang Co seafood
Fresh seafood caught along Lang Co coast, prepared simply to highlight flavor.
Nightlife
Evenings come alive with riverside lights, bars and gentle music along the coast.
Da Nang rooftop bars along the Han River
Chic spots with city views and sunset vibes over the water.
Hue riverside lounges
Relaxed bars and cafes along the Perfume River with live music nights.
Da Nang Bach Dang Street night market
Casual evenings with street food, crafts and lively atmosphere by the river.
Entertainment
Cultural shows and seasonal festivals bring regional arts to life.
Hue royal music performances
Traditional court music and ceremonial performances in historic settings.
Da Nang street performances by night
Ambient acts and performers along riverside promenades.
Hoi An Lantern Festival
Evenings when the town glows with colorful lanterns and small performances.
Sports
Adventure and active options mix mountain, water and jungle thrills.
Hiking in Bach Ma National Park
Forest trails, scenic waterfalls and wildlife encounters.
Kayaking in Lang Co Bay
Calm waters and limestone backdrop for a peaceful paddle.
Mountain biking along Hai Van Pass
Coastal road riding with sweeping sea vistas and twisty climbs.
Off the Track
Delve into lesser-known paths, caves and village life away from the crowds.
Visit rural fishing villages near Dong Hoi
Experience local life, boats, and small-scale coastal livelihoods.
Cave exploration beyond Paradise
Explore lesser-known caverns in the Phong Nha region with a guide.
Rural Hue cycle tours
Bike through village lanes, rice fields and small temples outside the city.