Hoi An, Da Nang or Hue — where should you base yourself in central Vietnam?
Hoi An gives atmosphere, Da Nang gives space and logistics, and Hue gives history. They are close enough to combine, but not interchangeable.
Answer
The central coast tempts travellers into treating Hoi An, Da Nang and Hue as one loose stop. They are better understood as three different kinds of trip. Hoi An is the pretty, heavily visited old-town experience, strongest with careful timing. Da Nang is less romantic but easier: beaches, hotels, airport access and room to breathe. Hue has the deeper historical pull and a slower, more reflective feel. If you have time, combine two or all three with purpose. If time is short, choose the base that solves the real need: atmosphere, rest or history. Central Vietnam is compact by Vietnamese standards, but lazy base choice still changes the trip.