We will be arriving in Da Nang by cruise ship in March (Chan May port) so we have a choice between a day trip to Hue or to Hoi An. Any recommendations? And, we might consider some kind of bike tour if we can squeeze this in. (we arrive around 9 am and leave at 6 pm so time is tight)
Thanks!
Hi Wendy. Without hesitation, I'd choose Hoi An over Hue. Hue is nice, historically important, and has some impressive temples if you have time to get around and see them, but the city itself is far less remarkable than Hoi An, and the Hue Citadel, which is the city's biggest attraction, has not been kept up well. Hoi An, on the other hand, is visually stunning, and it's one of a handful of cities in Vietnam that knows how to manage its tourism. You can buy a single ticket that will get you entrance into multiple historic sites. (Be sure to buy the ticket at one of the sites or one of the official tourism offices. If someone approaches you on the street, claiming to be a tour guide, and offers to buy the ticket for you, you will be overcharged.) Hoi An is also a delightful place to not do anything touristy at all, and simply wander and people-watch instead.
As far as bike tours go, there are plenty of bike rental places around town. I've never taken a bike tour there, but I've had some great rides on my own, just renting a bike and riding outside the touristy center, into the local villages.
Have a great trip!
Dave Fox - Globejotting.com
Another vote for Hoi An a great place to spend a day. Very compact and a great option for a day trip
Leaning toward Hoi An - sounds really great. Appreciate your quick replies!
