Chan May Port to Hue, Hoi An or Golden Hand Bridge of Bana Hills

Exploring Vietnam’s Cultural and Scenic Highlights with a Private Transfer Tour

Taking a day trip from Chan May Port to explore the best of central Vietnam can be both exciting and efficient. This private transfer service offers three main options—visiting Hue’s imperial sites, wandering Hoi An’s ancient streets, or marveling at the Golden Hand Bridge at Ba Na Hills. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but the reviews and tour details paint a clear picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience are its flexibility, professional drivers, and the stunning scenery along the way. You also get to customize your day based on your interests, whether it’s history, culture, or breathtaking views. That said, keep in mind that this is a transfer service rather than a guided tour, so some travelers might prefer a guide for more in-depth insights.

This tour is perfect for those who want a hassle-free, private day out, especially if you’re limited on time or traveling as a group. It’s ideal for cruise passengers wanting to maximize their port day without feeling rushed, and those seeking authentic, picture-worthy stops without the crowds.

Good To Know

• Flexible options tailored to your interests—Hue, Hoi An, or Ba Na Hills.
• Private transfer ensures comfort, avoiding crowded buses or tours.
• Stunning scenery along Hai Van Pass and Lap An Lagoon enhances the experience.
• Lack of guided commentary means you’ll need to do some pre- or post-trip research.
• Cost-efficiency for groups, with competitive pricing at $79 per person.
• Authentic stops like fishing villages and ancient towns provide genuine local flavor.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Itineraries

This private transfer offers three main options, each designed to let you experience a different facet of central Vietnam. Let’s explore what each entails and why they might suit various types of travelers.

Option 1: Hoi An and Da Nang (7 hours including transfers)

If you’re drawn to vibrant street scenes, historic architecture, and colorful markets, this is the pick. The journey starts with a scenic drive south from Chan May Port, stopping briefly at Lap An Lagoon and a local fishing village. The reviews highlight how these stops provide fantastic photo opportunities and a glimpse into local life. One traveler mentioned, “We took pictures at Lap An Lagoon and loved seeing the authentic fishing village scene.”

The drive through the Hai Van Pass is often praised for its breathtaking views—cloudy, lush, and dramatic, perfect for photography or just soaking in nature’s grandeur. Expect a twisty road with panoramic vistas, which reviewers like Leslie note as “amazing,” especially from the cable cars at Ba Na Hills later in the day.

Once in Da Nang, you’ll walk through the World Heritage-listed Hoi An Ancient Town. Expect to browse quaint shops, ancient houses, and riverside cafes—ideal for those who enjoy wandering and shopping. Reviewers consistently mention the charm of Hoi An’s streets and the opportunity to pick up handcrafted souvenirs, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

Option 2: Hue Imperial City (7 hours including transfers)

This itinerary dives into Vietnam’s royal past, perfect for history buffs. The drive to Hue takes about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll pass lush countryside. Once in Hue, you’ll explore the Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City, learning about the Nguyen Dynasty’s rulers and their lifestyle. Reviewers like Bridget rave about the knowledgeable driver who took them to all the key sites and even suggested a nice restaurant for lunch.

The highlight is the Thien Mu Pagoda, often regarded as Hue’s most beautiful pagoda, with reviewers mentioning its historic charm and serene atmosphere. Visitors also get to see the best tomb of an emperor, which provides insight into traditional Vietnamese burial practices and royal culture. Many reviews highlight how the driver’s local knowledge made the experience more engaging, even if English was limited.

Option 3: Ba Na Hills and Golden Hand Bridge (8 hours including transfers)

This option is the most visually spectacular, combining scenic drives with a cable car ride to Ba Na Hills—sometimes called the “Da Lat of Danang.” The journey starts similarly with a stop at Lap An Lagoon and the fishing village, adding a touch of local flavor before ascending into the mountains.

Once in Ba Na Hills, you’ll ride a cable car that boasts incredible views of the Truong Son Mountains and the ocean beyond—reviewers like Leslie praise the cable car ride as “amazing,” especially when viewing the Golden Hand Bridge. The bridge’s unique design and sweeping curves make it a photographer’s dream.

Entry to Ba Na Hills costs about 950,000 VND ($40 USD) per person, and the experience includes exploring various attractions and the park’s themed zones. Many reviewers mention that the park has a playful, touristy vibe, but the views and the bridge itself make it worthwhile. A few note that the park can be crowded, but early mornings or late afternoons tend to be quieter.

What’s Included and What You Should Budget For

At $79 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering it’s a private service with door-to-door pickup and drop-off. The price covers:

• Private transportation with AC, ensuring a comfortable ride.
• Road tolls and parking fees at sightseeing spots.
• Pickup at the Border Check, just 500-650 meters from your ship.

However, the entrance tickets to sites like Hue’s Imperial City or Ba Na Hills are not included. Entrance to Ba Na Hills is approximately 950,000 VND, and other sites may have their own fees. Reviewers find this acceptable, as it allows flexibility based on your interests and appetite for optional expenses.

Food and drinks are also not included, but many travelers recommend trying local specialties during their stops, especially in Hue or at a seaside restaurant near Ba Na Hills. One review mentions a “delicious seafood meal,” which greatly enhanced the trip.

The Driver and Guide

Most travelers praise the driver’s professionalism and friendliness. Although it’s primarily a transfer, some options include optional English-speaking guides (for an extra $55), which can enrich your experience by providing context and storytelling. Several reviews mention the driver’s limited English but highlight how effective communication was through simple exchanges or translation apps.

Timing and Duration

The total duration ranges from 7 to 11 hours, depending on your selected options. The flexibility lets you choose a shorter or longer day, balancing sightseeing with comfort. Many reviewers appreciated the punctuality and the ability to customize their stops, making it suitable for cruisers who need to get back to the ship on time.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Based on reviews, travelers often mention how the driver’s local knowledge brought added value, even if not a guide per se. For example, one traveler said, “Our driver was very informative and attentive to our needs,” while another highlighted how the driver made restaurant suggestions, significantly improving the day.

The stops at Lap An Lagoon and fishing villages aren’t just scenic—they’re authentic glimpses into rural life that larger tour groups might miss. Several reviews emphasize how these stops made the trip feel more genuine; one traveler noted, “I loved seeing the local fishing boats and learning how the villagers live.”

The Scenic Highlights

The Hai Van Pass is consistently praised for its dramatic vistas, with travelers noting how the winding roads and mountain views surpass expectations. The cable car ride at Ba Na Hills also earns high praise for its breathtaking scenery, providing a chance to see Vietnam’s lush landscapes from above.

Cultural and Historic Value

Visitors to Hue enjoy the chance to walk through the Imperial City, with some praising the Thien Mu Pagoda as a peaceful, beautiful site. The trip offers a good balance of history, architecture, and local lifestyle, making it suitable for culture lovers.

Hidden Gems and Tips

Some reviewers mention that the lunch options in Hue are excellent, turning a sightseeing trip into a culinary adventure, while others appreciate the opportunity to photograph the Golden Hand Bridge during early or late hours when crowds are thinner.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private transfer service suits cruise passengers and travelers keen on exploring Vietnam’s highlights without the hassle of large tour groups. It’s a great way to enjoy customized stops at authentic sites, with the comfort of private transport.

If you’re interested in history and culture, the Hue option provides deep insights into Vietnam’s royal past. For those seeking visual spectacle and fun, Ba Na Hills offers stunning views and playful attractions. Meanwhile, the Hoi An option provides a relaxing, picturesque experience perfect for lovers of shopping, cafes, and charming streets.

The Sum Up

This private transfer tour from Chan May Port provides an excellent way to see Vietnam’s top sights with comfort and flexibility. The options cater to a range of interests, whether it’s exploring Hue’s imperial grandeur, wandering Hoi An’s enchanting streets, or marveling at the Golden Hand Bridge in Ba Na Hills. The balance of scenic drives, authentic stops, and professional drivers makes it a reliable choice for cruise travelers or anyone wanting a stress-free day in central Vietnam.

The value for money is solid, especially considering the personalized service and the ability to choose your preferred itinerary. While entrance fees and meals are additional, many travelers find these costs reasonable compared to the convenience and quality of the experience.

If you’re looking for a tailored, hassle-free way to enjoy Vietnam’s highlights—especially if time is tight—this tour offers a practical, fun, and memorable solution.

FAQs

Is this tour private or group-based?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Does the tour include pickup from the cruise port?
Yes, the driver will pick you up at the Border Check area, about 500-650 meters from the ship, with the option for an inside port pickup at an extra charge.

Are entrance tickets to the sightseeing spots included?
No, entrance fees (like for Ba Na Hills or Hue’s Imperial City) are not included and need to be purchased separately.

How long does each option take?
The tours range from about 7 hours for Hue or Hoi An options to around 8 hours for Ba Na Hills, depending on stops and traffic.

Is this suitable for families or travelers with limited mobility?
Yes, the private nature and short walks make it accessible, though the walking in Hue’s Citadel or Hoi An’s streets should be considered.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The options are fixed, but you can select the one that best fits your interests. For a fully customized experience, discuss your preferences with the driver, though additional guides are available for a surcharge.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sunscreen, a hat, water, and any personal essentials. Entrance fees and meals are extra, so plan accordingly.

This private transfer tour from Chan May Port offers a practical, flexible way to enjoy Vietnam’s cultural and scenic treasures. Whether you’re up for history, stunning vistas, or charming towns, it’s a reliable and enjoyable choice for a memorable day.