Hue or Hoi An?
 

My "nephew" has an upcoming holiday and is debating which city to visit. He will not have time for both. Any one with experience in both and can make a recommendation? He is under-30, educated, and seasoned as a traveler.

Anyone who has been to one care to make a pitch for or against?

TIA

FMINYC

Is "nephew" (in quotes) code for something that I didn't get ?

I've been to both, Hoi An more than Hue. My preference is Hue. Hoi An has become very touristic. Yes, it has some interesting sights. I like a cooking class given by Red Bridge very much. But you are surrounded by masses of people from around the world as you move thru the historic center. You can tick off what is to be seen in a few hours.

Hue is a true city with a wide range of historic sites surrounding it. Be aware there is heavy rain during part of the year so check the weather maps first. I think we were there in early December when we had monsoonal rain. But there are a vast array of cultural sights surrounding the city to be seen in better weather. We took a food tour one evening that was terrific and introduced us to local foods unknown to us. We want to return to Hue and spend several days visiting sites we have yet to see.

How many days does he have?

I second Sandiego1K recommendation. We just had a wonderful stay in Hue last week. There is lots to do as she suggests that is authentic and cultural. Hoi An is very touristy. I will write a longer review on Hie but we are still on the road and saw this post

LOL, No, he is the son of a lifelong friend.

4 days,

He can also take a day trip to Hue from Danang or Hoian but it is rushed for Hue.

More than rushed. Would not recommend as most of the time will be on the road between cities and you won't have time to see what's really interesting in Hue.

Agree. I remember it being nearly a 3 hour drive from Hue to Danang. Do that round trip and there's no time to organize sightseeing in Hue.

I'd recommend Hue as well. Besides all the sites in the city can do a day trip to Vinh Moc to see where families lived underground during the Vietnam War.
The Melia Vinpearl Hue is the tallest building, at least when I went 2 years go, by far and a top floor room wasn't very expensive. Great views as far as one can see.