Hoi An/Da Nang: Marble Mountains & My Son Day Trip
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Overview
From Hoi An or Da Nang, experience a day trip to Central Vietnam's gems. This tour offers a mix of culture, history, and beautiful sights, perfect for those wanting to see the best of the region in one day.
The adventure starts with a visit to the impressive Lady Buddha statue at Monkey Mountain, offering stunning views of Da Nang City. Next, explore the Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone hills with caves and temples, including the fascinating Am Phu Cave. The tour then heads to the My Son Sanctuary, an ancient complex of Hindu temples that was once a vital religious center. Finally, relax on a boat trip down the Thu Bon River, enjoying the peaceful countryside views before returning to Hoi An.
This full-day trip includes entrance fees, a tasty Vietnamese Banh Mi brunch on the boat, lunch with a local Vietnamese dish (My Quang), an English-speaking guide, and hotel pick-up and drop-off. It excludes personal expenses and drinks.




Highlights
See Lady Buddha: Visit the Lady Buddha statue at Monkey Mountain for amazing views.
Explore Marble Mountains: Discover caves and temples in the Marble Mountains.
My Son Sanctuary: Explore the historic My Son Sanctuary, an ancient temple complex.
Relaxing Boat Trip: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Thu Bon River.
Sentiment Analysis
Visitors generally found the tour to be a great way to see multiple sights in one day, with knowledgeable guides and good food. Some felt the pace was quick and wanted more detailed explanations at certain sites.

Customers enjoyed the guide's knowledge and enthusiasm.
Many visitors appreciated the comfortable transportation and well-organized itinerary.
The lunch was a hit and many visitors enjoyed experiencing the local cuisine.
The boat ride on the river was a relaxing experience, offering nice views.
Some visitors found the tour felt a bit rushed.
A few mentioned that the My Son site could have benefited from more in-depth historical explanation.
The Journey
Da Nang City
Begin your adventure with a transfer to Da Nang, a vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, modern architecture, and delicious seafood. As the gateway to Central Vietnam's cultural treasures, Da Nang offers a compelling blend of urban charm and natural beauty. Experience its bustling markets, explore its burgeoning art scene, and soak in the panoramic views from its iconic bridges, all setting the stage for the remarkable sights to come.
Monkey Mountain (Son Tra Peninsula)
Ascend to Monkey Mountain, also known as Son Tra Peninsula, a lush sanctuary overlooking the East Sea. Marvel at the colossal Lady Buddha statue, a symbol of peace and protection, set against a breathtaking backdrop of verdant mountains and vibrant bonsai gardens. Wander through this 'garden of heaven,' breathing in the fresh sea breeze while listening to captivating local legends, and discover the serene beauty that makes Monkey Mountain a spiritual and scenic highlight.
Marble Mountains
Explore the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills riddled with caves, temples, and pagodas. Discover local workshops where skilled artisans craft intricate stone sculptures, preserving a centuries-old tradition. Climb to the summit (elevator optional) to visit sacred pagodas built by the Nguyen Dynasty in the 19th century, and delve into the mystical depths of Huyen Khong Cave and Tang Chon Cave, each revealing unique spiritual and historical significance.
Am Phu Cave
Descend into the captivating Am Phu Cave, the largest and most fascinating cave within the Marble Mountains. Journey through its labyrinthine passages to witness the dramatic representation of Buddhist philosophies concerning heaven and hell. Capture stunning photographs of the cave's remarkable natural formations, shaped over millennia, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the region's spiritual and geological wonders.
Local Vietnamese Restaurant
Savor the authentic flavors of Vietnam at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in a delectable array of traditional dishes. Experience the culinary heritage of the region through expertly prepared meals, featuring fresh, local ingredients and time-honored recipes. From savory pho to flavorful banh mi, immerse yourself in the rich and diverse gastronomic landscape that defines Vietnamese cuisine.
My Son Sanctuary
Journey to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to the ancient Champa civilization. Spend two hours exploring this archaeological marvel, wandering through its landscape of crumbling temples and towers, each bearing witness to a rich cultural history. Listen to your local English-speaking guide as they share captivating stories of the Champa kingdom and enjoy traditional performances that bring this ancient world to life.
Thu Bon River Boat Trip
Embark on a relaxing boat trip along the Thu Bon River, the lifeblood of Central Vietnam. Feel the cool breeze as you cruise towards Hoi An, taking in the stunning sunset views that paint the sky in vibrant hues. Capture the everyday moments of local life along the riverbanks, from fishermen casting their nets to farmers tending their fields. Enjoy a taste of Vietnam with a delicious Banh Mi sandwich as you soak in the picturesque scenery.
Hoi An Ancient Town
Conclude your tour in the enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved architecture, tailor shops, and vibrant lantern-lit streets. Reflect on your journey as you are dropped off at your hotel, cherishing the memories of the cultural treasures, natural wonders, and culinary delights you've experienced throughout the day. Hoi An's unique blend of history and charm makes it the perfect ending to your Central Vietnam adventure.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes all entrance fees, a Vietnamese Banh Mi brunch on the boat, lunch with a local Vietnamese dish (My Quang), an English-speaking guide, and a bottle of water. Also included is a boat trip on the Thu Bon River and two-way hotel pick-up and drop-off (190km round trip). It excludes personal expenses and drinks (which are available for purchase). A surcharge of $8 applies for pick-up from Da Nang.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved. Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Consider bringing small bills for tips and souvenirs.