A Dialogue Between the Imperial City and the Beaches: Vietnam’s World Heritage Sites and Romantic Charm

Text by Qidou Travel Network | Photos by Shutterstock.com, hotel official websites, and Chengwang Travel

In the S-shaped heart of Vietnam lies world-class beautiful beaches, along with the country’s historic imperial cities and captivating ancient capitals. Traditional charm and romantic ambiance create a stunning dialogue between the ancient city and the beaches.

▲Photo by Shutterstock.com

Vietnam’s long and narrow territory includes Đà Nẵng in central Vietnam, which is not only one of the country’s major seaports but also a resort destination and cultural capital. It was selected by National Geographic as one of the 50 must-visit places in a lifetime.

▲Photo by Shutterstock.com

Đà Nẵng’s 30-kilometer-long beach was recognized by UNESCO in 2005 as one of the “Six Most Beautiful Beaches in the World.” Facing the South China Sea and bathed in oceanic freshness, it boasts incredibly blue waters and fine white sand, with a romantic atmosphere in the air. In the eyes of Westerners, Đà Nẵng rivals Hawaii in fame.

Nearby, Ba Na Hills—a French-style mountain town—due to its high elevation, served as a summer retreat for the French. The cable car here spans 16,545 meters and takes just 20 minutes to reach the mountain peak at 4,239 meters above sea level. In 2009, it was listed in the Guinness World Records as the longest and highest non-stop single-track cable car in the world, an impressive feat.

When you first ascend the cable car, you’ll see forests and rocky streams beneath your feet. After about 10 minutes, you’ll find yourself above the sea of clouds. On clear days, standing atop the main mountain peak offers a bird’s-eye view of Đà Nẵng City, Túy Loan Bay, and Mỹ Khê Beach, resembling a giant landscape painting.

Arriving at the top at Ba Na Hills, you’ll feel as if you’ve entered another country. Majestic castles stand before your eyes, their deep blue roofs looking even more elegant under the clear sky. The weather here changes with the seasons throughout the day: spring in the morning, summer at noon, autumn in the afternoon, and winter at night. A single day here feels like experiencing all four seasons.

This French-style mountain town is filled with European romance and is an extremely popular resort destination. The area is fully equipped with hotels, villas, restaurants, tennis courts, and more. Don’t miss Fantasy Park, the miniature train ride through Quiet Garden and Ling Ying Temple, and the century-old wine cellar.

▲Image sourcewww.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/us/en/danang/dadch/hoteldetail

For an authentic Vietnamese-style stay, be sure to book a room at the Crowne Plaza Danang Resort. Its grand Vietnamese architectural design and interiors boldly showcase a unique style, while details incorporate cultural elements. The thoughtful service makes guests fall in love with it instantly.

The Crowne Plaza Danang Resort offers top-notch facilities, especially its 700-meter-long coastline—known as an international-grade beautiful beach and called the “Oriental Hawaii.” It rivals Australia’s Gold Coast, with seas as blue and skies as clear as those in the Maldives.

▲Photo by Shutterstock.com

Not far north of Đà Nẵng is Huế, the ancient capital of three Vietnamese dynasties and the best historical testament to Vietnam’s adoption of Chinese culture. Though the once-glorious ancient relics have endured war, the proud outlines of the city still exude an unmistakable imperial aura unmatched by other cities.

The Imperial City (Đại Nội) was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. Smart travelers take an electric cart tour of the Imperial City, saving walking time and allowing a leisurely exploration of palaces, the Noon Gate, the Throne Hall, temples, gardens, and bridges.

In the ancient capital of Huế, in addition to admiring the Imperial City reminiscent of Beijing’s Forbidden City, you can also experience a touch of Western-style elegance.

The Eldora Hotel Hue, showcasing luxurious European-style sophistication, interprets romantic French design and furnishings. Unique Renaissance elements reflect the refined essence of French colonial style while maintaining modern convenience, immersing you completely in a luxurious sense of mystery.

▲Photo by Shutterstock.com

About 30 kilometers south of Đà Nẵng is Hội An, an ancient city rich in Chinese cultural influence. As early as the 17th century, it was an international port in Southeast Asia and a major trading hub in Vietnam. Its old streets and centuries-old houses reveal a unique cultural atmosphere. Walking into the ancient town is like entering a living museum, where every corner offers beautiful scenery. Its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 was well-deserved.

Beyond the city’s cultural charm, Hội An also offers worthwhile eco-tourism experiences.

Thanks to Hội An’s coastal location, there are many local fishermen, and traditional Vietnamese fishing techniques along with unique bamboo basket boats are a highlight. Try taking a uniquely shaped bamboo basket boat on a wetlands tour to explore the natural ecology of the water coconut forests. The tranquil waterways are full of rustic charm, offering an in-depth experience of local Vietnamese life.

More related information
Recommended Itinerary: A “Cable” Car Tour – Vietnam Central Region [World Heritage & Marine Green Living] Leisure 5-Day Trip
Features: Direct flight to Đà Nẵng with China Airlines for ultimate convenience, avoiding layovers. Visit Đà Nẵng, Huế, and Hội An.
Special Arrangements: Ba Na Hills Cable Car, Electric Cart Tour of Huế Imperial City, Perfume River Cruise, Hội An Eco Tour, and an Ancient Costume “Emperor’s Banquet” with court ladies singing traditional Vietnamese folk songs during the meal. No shopping stops.
Accommodation: Priority stay at Crowne Plaza Danang Beach Resort, the only five-star beachfront resort in Đà Nẵng with a private beach. Also includes a stay at the luxury boutique Eldora Hotel Hue.

Chengwang Travel Agency (02)2515-2828
Websitewww.loyaltytour.com.tw