Our 15 Favorite Central Vietnam Tours

Central Vietnam is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant culture. Unlike other regions, Central Vietnam offers a unique blend of mountain scenery, ancient towns, and rugged coastlines, making it a prime spot for memorable tours. Whether you want to zoom through the countryside on a motorbike, kayak inside an extraordinary cave, or explore bustling cities like Da Nang and Hoi An, this region has something to excite every traveler. We especially love the Dalat Countryside Motorbike Day Tour for its scenic rides and cultural stops, and the Phong Nha Cave Kayak Tour for its jaw-dropping underground adventures. For a perfect mix of natural beauty and history, check out the various port tours, such as Chan May Shore Excursions or Da Nang/Hoi An Shore Excursion. These options make navigating the region simple when your time is limited.

Quick Overview

This list covers a wide array of tours in Central Vietnam—from motorbike journeys through coffee farms and waterfalls to adventurous cave kayak trips, and private port excursions to historic towns and iconic sights like the Golden Bridge and Marble Mountains. You’ll find options suited for budget travelers, adventure seekers, and those looking for culture. Each tour offers something special, whether it’s the opportunity to explore Pu Luong Nature Reserve or to cruise along the Son River in Phong Nha. Now, let’s dive into the details.

1. Dalat Countryside Motorbike Day Tour–Coffee Farms & Pagodas

At number 1, the Dalat Countryside Motorbike Day Tour offers a 7-8 hour immersion into Vietnam’s Central Highlands. This tour takes you on a guided ride through farms, waterfalls, and pagodas, including a visit to Pongour Waterfall with its seven-tier cascade that produces a thunderous roar. You’ll also stop at the historic Linh An Pagoda and walk through a local coffee plantation, tasting traditional Vietnamese coffee—something coffee lovers will appreciate. The tour is praised for its flexibility, allowing self-riding motorcycles or using a car, and the guides are known for being safe and knowledgeable. Guests consistently give it a perfect 5.0 out of 5, often noting how the mix of scenic stops and cultural insights makes it a highlight.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for those wanting a full day of scenic riding, culture, and delicious coffee, with the option to customize the experience.

2. Pu Luong Nature Reserve 1-Day Tour | Pickup from Pu Luong | Top 1

Ranking second, the Pu Luong Nature Reserve 1-Day Tour is ideal for travelers craving outdoor adventure. This tour is organized by Authentic Adventures Vietnam, beginning early with a scenic drive to Pu Luong. The highlight is the 8 km trek into the reserve, where you’ll encounter stunning rice terraces, local villages, and meet villagers. The tour also includes a visit to Bat Cave and a walk in Eo Ken village, with opportunities for swimming in Hieu waterfall. The guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and fluent in English, ensuring you get the most out of the experience. The trip’s value lies in its diverse activities—trekking, cave exploration, and cultural encounters—all packed into an 8-hour window.
Guests comment on the guide’s friendliness and the beauty of the scenery, making it a top-rated adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want to combine hiking, culture, and nature in one day.

3. Phong Nha Cave Kayak Tour 1 Day

Number 3 on our list is the Phong Nha Cave Kayak Tour. This 8-hour adventure brings you inside one of Vietnam’s most spectacular caves, rated highly for its jaw-dropping stalactites, underground lakes, and impressive underground river. After a short kayak training session, you’ll paddle through a 3 km dark tunnel into the cave, then hike inside to reach the underground lake, where you can swim in surreal surroundings. Later, you’ll explore the grottoes by kayak again, making this a mix of adventure and natural wonder. The tour is praised for its expert guides and the opportunity to experience the cave from multiple perspectives.
One guest says: “Being able to kayak, scramble across rocks, and swim in the cave was unforgettable.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers looking for a physically engaging day with extraordinary scenery.

4. Easyrider motorbike tour

For a quick thrill, the Easyrider motorbike tour provides a 15-minute ride with an English-speaking guide through Da Nang’s surrounding countryside. This tour is less about covering ground and more about experiencing Vietnam from a local’s seat on a motorcycle. Riders love the chance to see the countryside, with the guides offering insights into local life along scenic routes. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want an authentic taste of the Vietnamese landscape. The tour has a 5-star rating, with reviews emphasizing safety and the friendly nature of the guides.
Bottom Line: A quick, authentic ride for those curious about Vietnam’s rural areas without committing to a full-day adventure.

5. Chan May Shore Excursions: Visit Hue City or Danang & Hoi An

Number 5 is the popular Chan May Shore Excursion. This tour offers two options: exploring Hue’s Imperial City or the scenic route through Hoi An and Da Nang. The Hue option includes a visit to the citadel and forbidden city, while the Hoi An route takes you through the picturesque Lap An Lagoon, Hai Van Pass, and shopping in the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. With 7 to 9 hours of sightseeing and a price of $79 per person, it provides good value for a comprehensive day. Guests love the flexibility and the knowledgeable guides—one even mentions the perfect pacing and memorable stops.
Bottom Line: Great for cruise passengers who want a full day of sightseeing tailored to their interests.

6. Chan May Port : Private tour to Da Nang & Hoi An Old Town

Ranked sixth, the Private Tour to Da Nang & Hoi An offers a personalized experience lasting 6-8 hours. Your guide will take you from the tranquil Lap An Lagoon to the bustling streets of Hoi An. Highlights include riding through the Coconut Forest, exploring Hoi An’s well-preserved architecture, and taking a traditional boat ride. The tour is flexible—you can customize it to suit your interests, with reviews praising the guides’ local knowledge and friendliness.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want an intimate, tailored exploration of Vietnam’s cultural highlights.

7. Private Tour from Chan May port to Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge

Number 7 features the Private Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge Tour. This 6-8 hour tour includes a ride on the longest cable car in Southeast Asia and stops at the famous Golden Bridge with its giant stone hands. You’ll explore the French Village, with its European-inspired architecture, and enjoy the amusement park inside Ba Na Hills. The guide emphasizes avoiding crowds and taking the best photos. Guests appreciate the seamless logistics and the deep knowledge of the guides, making this a top choice for families or photo enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: An excellent pick for those wanting to see the iconic bridge and enjoy a mix of nature and entertainment.

8. Tour Phong Nha Cave Dragon Boat Half Day

At number 8, the Phong Nha Cave Dragon Boat Half Day offers a 3-4 hour trip cruising the Son River in a traditional dragon boat. This gentle tour lets you admire the limestone mountains and lush scenery while enjoying a quiet ride. Inside the cave, you explore remarkable stalactites and rock formations with a local guide providing insights. It’s an easy, relaxing way to see one of Vietnam’s most famous caves without strenuous activity. Reviewers mention how peaceful and scenic the ride is, making it suitable for all ages.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic outing with cultural flavor.

9. Private tour from Chan May port to Marble Mountains & Hoi An

Number 9 is the Private Marble Mountains & Hoi An. This 6-8 hour tour combines visits to the Marble Mountains, with their caves, tunnels, and spiritual sites, and the UNESCO-listed Hoi An Ancient Town. The guide takes you through the mountains’ natural caves and visits a traditional marble carving village. Lunch is included, with enough time to stroll around Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets. Guests note the guides’ depth of knowledge and flexibility.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history and culture enthusiasts wanting a comprehensive day trip.

10. My Son Sanctuary and Marble Mountain Tours or Transfer

Rounding out the top 10, the My Son Sanctuary and Marble Mountain Tours offers a budget-friendly 8-hour experience. It includes a guided visit to the ancient Hindu temple complex of My Son, built between the 7th and 13th centuries, and a trip to the Marble Mountains. The tour emphasizes education about Vietnam’s religious past with visits to old temples and natural caves. Reviewers often mention how well organized and straightforward it is for travelers short on time.
Bottom Line: Great for those interested in Vietnam’s spiritual history without a hefty price tag.

11. Chan May Port : Private tour to Golden Hand Bridge – Ba Na Hills

The Golden Hand Bridge tour is perfect for travelers eager to see the most Instagram-worthy sight in Ba Na Hills. It includes a guided visit to the Golden Bridge, the French Village, and the amusement park. Guides are skilled at avoiding crowds and finding the best photo spots, making it popular among families and photo enthusiasts. The 6-hour tour provides ample time for sightseeing and photos.
Bottom Line: Best for visitors wanting to capture the iconic Golden Bridge and enjoy a flexible, guided experience.

12. Hai Van Pass Tour from Hoi An

Number 12, the Hai Van Pass Tour, offers a 7-hour scenic drive from Hoi An. It’s perfect for those wanting to sit back and enjoy the stunning coastal vistas without the stress of driving. The tour includes stops at Lang Co Beach, the Truong Son mountains, and the lapis-colored rice terraces. An authentic Vietnamese lunch is included, and the private vehicle makes it comfortable. Reviewers love how smoothly everything runs, and one mentions that “Sherlock took some great photos,” emphasizing the tour’s photographic potential.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a scenic, relaxing day with insider insights into Vietnam’s landscape.

13. Da Nang/Hoi An Tour from Cruise Ship (Shore Excursion) by Private

This comprehensive Da Nang/Hoi An Shore Excursion covers key highlights in approximately 11 hours. It includes visits to My Khe Beach, the Marble Mountains, and Hoi An Ancient Town. Lunch at a local restaurant adds a taste of regional cuisine. The private guide personalizes the experience, making it suitable for travelers wanting flexibility. Reviewers highlight the professional service and well-paced itinerary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise passengers seeking a thorough and customizable exploration of Da Nang and Hoi An.

14. Shore Excursion: Chan May Port to Golden Bridge Ba Na Hills

The Golden Bridge & Ba Na Hills tour is a private, 6-8 hour experience that takes you inside the Sun World complex. Starting with the cable car ride over lush scenery, you’ll visit the Golden Bridge supporting hands, explore the French Village, and enjoy the amusement park. It’s a flexible tour designed to maximize your time at the top. Guests appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to beat the crowds.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting to see Ba Na Hills with minimal fuss and maximum photo ops.

15. Private Da Nang & Hoi An Tour From Chan May or Tien Sa Port

Finally, the Private Da Nang & Hoi An Tour provides an 8-9 hour, personalized journey through Da Nang’s Dragon Bridge, Marble Mountains, and Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets. It includes a traditional Vietnamese lunch and offers flexible timing and itinerary customization. Reviewers mention how guides make the day engaging and informative, ensuring you see the highlights without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a private, tailored experience combining culture, history, and scenery.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting your perfect tour in Central Vietnam, consider your budget, physical fitness, and interests. For example, if you’re into adventure and active exploration, the Phong Nha Cave Kayak Tour or Pu Luong Trek might be best. If you prefer cultural highlights with minimal effort, the Hue Imperial City or Hoi An excursions are excellent options. For those craving iconic sights, the Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills tours deliver stunning photo opportunities. Use these port tours as a guide for efficient planning, especially if your time is limited. Booking early, particularly for popular tours like Ba Na Hills or Phong Nha, ensures you won’t miss out.

Final Thoughts

Central Vietnam offers a diverse range of tours that cater to many interests—from scenic motorbike rides through coffee farms to amazing cave adventures and cultural explorations in historic towns. For a balanced mix of natural beauty and authentic experiences, the Dalat Motorbike Tour and Phong Nha Kayaking rank highly. Cruise passengers will appreciate the tailored port excursions that combine convenience with richness. Whatever your style, booking early guarantees a spot on these popular adventures. Now’s the time to start planning your memorable trip through Vietnam’s heartland.