AUTHENTIC CENTRAL VIETNAM WITH PILGRIMAGE SITES 8D7N

After breakfast, travel north to Our Lady of La Vang, Vietnam’s most important Marian pilgrimage center. Spend time in prayer and reflection at this sacred shrine, where generations of Vietnamese Catholics have gathered in devotion to the Blessed Mother.

Continue to Thien An Monastery, a peaceful Benedictine monastery nestled among pine-covered hills on the outskirts of Hue. The serene setting offers a wonderful opportunity for contemplation and spiritual renewal.

After lunch, explore Dong Ba Market, Hue’s largest traditional market, where you can experience local life and discover regional specialties, handicrafts, and everyday Vietnamese culture.

Overnight in Hue.

After breakfast at the hotel, we will spend time visiting Phu Cam Cathedral, the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Hue and one of the largest, most famous, and oldest churches in the city. Built on a hill once covered by orange groves, construction began in 1963 and was later expanded in 2000. Designed by renowned Vietnamese architect Ngo Viet Thu, the cathedral is an outstanding example of modern religious architecture in Vietnam.

Continue to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church (Redemptorist Church of Hue), another architectural treasure of Hue. Learn about its important role within the local Catholic community while admiring its elegant design and spiritual atmosphere.

After lunch, visit Maries Craft Shop, a social enterprise where skilled artisans create beautiful handmade products from Lepironia grass, a traditional wetland plant native to Central Vietnam. The workshop provides valuable employment opportunities for disadvantaged and disabled members of the local community.

Then enjoy a short traditional cyclo ride to the Hue Imperial Citadel, located on the northern bank of the Perfume River. This UNESCO World Heritage Site served as the political and cultural center of the Nguyen Dynasty, Vietnam’s last royal dynasty.

Covering more than 520 hectares, the Citadel consists of three fortified enclosures: Kinh Thanh (Capital Citadel), Hoang Thanh (Imperial City), and Tu Cam Thanh (Forbidden Purple City). Once home to emperors, royal families, and court officials, the complex features impressive palaces, temples, gates, and ancient walls. Despite damage caused by wars and natural disasters, many remarkable structures remain, offering a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past.

Overnight in Hue.

After breakfast, depart Hue and travel south toward Ba Na Hills, one of Vietnam’s most famous mountain resorts. Originally developed by the French as a hill station, Ba Na Hills is known for its refreshingly cool climate, stunning mountain scenery, and spectacular views over Central Vietnam.

Upon arrival, board the impressive cable car system, which stretches nearly 5.8 kilometers and was once recognized as the world’s longest non-stop cable car ride. Ascending almost 1,400 meters above sea level, the journey offers breathtaking views of dense forests, waterfalls, and the surrounding mountains.

One of the highlights of the visit is the iconic Golden Bridge, a remarkable architectural masterpiece that appears to be held aloft by two giant stone hands emerging from the mountainside. Suspended more than 1,000 meters above sea level, the bridge offers magnificent panoramic views and has become one of Vietnam’s most photographed landmarks.

Guests will also have time to explore the charming French Village, stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this mountain retreat. We will remain flexible with the sightseeing schedule to allow time to enjoy the attractions at a comfortable pace.

Lunch is included at Ba Na Hills.

In the late afternoon, descend by cable car and continue to Hoi An, the charming UNESCO World Heritage town on the Thu Bon River. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Overnight in Hoi An.

This morning, visit Our Lady of Tra Kieu, one of Vietnam’s most important Marian pilgrimage sites. Set amidst peaceful countryside, the shrine commemorates the protection believed to have been granted by the Blessed Mother to local Catholics during the events of 1885.

Continue to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the spiritual center of the ancient Champa Kingdom. Explore the remarkable temple ruins dating from the 4th to the 13th centuries.

Return to Hoi An in the afternoon.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Fuel up for a day of exploration with a delicious breakfast at your hotel.

Embrace the tranquil beauty of Hoi An’s natural wonders! We’ll depart for the enchanting Bay Mau Coconut Forest and experience Water Life on a special round basket boat.

Imagine yourself gently floating on the Thu Bon River aboard a traditional round basket boat. As you weave through the towering coconut groves, keep your eyes peeled for the diverse birdlife and aquatic creatures that thrive in this ecosystem. You might even get the chance to learn traditional fishing techniques, a firsthand experience of the area’s rich heritage.

After lunch, immerse yourself in the rich history and charm of Hoi An Ancient Town on a guided walking tour. Located on the banks of the poetic Thu Bon River, Hoi An ancient town is an Eastern oriental classic captivation. Between the 17th and 19th centuries, Hoi An was a prosperous trading port, with a number of foreign occupations. These included the Japanese and Chinese, and and also western (Dutch and Spanish) during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Today, this UNESCO World Heritage listed ancient town is home to well-preserved buildings, pedestrianized streets, a quaint riverside and unique cuisines. The narrow lanes are ideal for a 3 hours walking tour to give you a glimpse of an ancient town with its illustrious past. You will visit the Japanese Bridge, the Assembly Hall of Chinese, an old merchant’s house – Tan Ky beautiful town of all lanterns by night.

In the evening, you will enjoy a special performance in Hoi An – the “Hoi An Memories” show, which captures the heroic and romantic essence of Hoi An. This outdoor visual arts spectacle takes you on a journey through the rich history, culture, and identity of the town. Featuring over 500 dancers and actors, along with stunning props, captivating stage effects, eye-catching choreography, and state-of-the-art sound and lighting, the show unfolds on a grand 25,000-square-meter stage

Start after breakfast for a 30 minutes gentle bicycle ride through the flat country lanes to Tra Que, which is a charming little village located just a few kilometres northeast of Hoi An. The village is famous for growing many kinds of vegetables and herbs including: lettuce, salad, houttuynia, flagrant knotweed, basil and coriander.

We will learn about the planting and growing of vegetables and herbs. Enjoy a herbal foot massage before taking a short informal cooking class with a local family, to learn how to make (and then eat) some local delicacies.

The remainder of the day is free for shopping, relaxation, or independent exploration in Hoi An.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Enjoy free time until your private transfer to Da Nang International Airport for your departure flight.

Fly home on your own scheduled flight, taking with you precious memories of your Vietnam Catholic Tour.

Address: 16 Doan Huu Trung Street, Hue City, Vietnam

Website: www.vietnamcatholictours.com

Tel/WhatsApp: +84 914 544 660 (Marie/Ms)

Email: info@vietnamcatholictours.com