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7 Days in Vietnam: 6 Best Itinerary Ideas for First Timers

Seven days in Vietnam may seem like too short a time, but if you are looking to do a quick vacation, get ready to be surprised at how many exciting one-week Vietnam trips you can do!

Vietnam is a long country, from north to south. While your 7-day itinerary could involve multiple regions, we recommend that you focus on one or two regions , especially if you dislike moving from one place to another during a short trip.

In this article, we've rounded up the most popular one-week Vietnam itineraries, from bucket-list-city combinations like Hanoi and Ho Chin Minh to must-visit destinations like Halong Bay and lesser-visited places like the stunningly beautiful Sapa.

Excited? Let's get started in discovering the very best 7-day Vietnam trip itineraries!

• Itinerary 1: Vietnam Highlights Tour from North to South
• Itinerary 2: The Best of Northern Vietnam
• Itinerary 3: North and Central Vietnam
• Itinerary 4: Central Vietnam
• Itinerary 5: Southern Vietnam City and Beach Holiday
• Itinerary 6: From Southern Vietnam to North Cambodia

How Much Does One Week in Vietnam Cost?

7-day vietnam itinerary 1: vietnam highlights tour from north to south.

It is possible to visit Vietnam from north to south in 7 days, but it would be a tight schedule . It is important to plan your itinerary carefully and prioritize which destinations and attractions you want to see. A private tour is the best way to make the most of your time .

In your 7 days, we suggest visiting the three iconic cities and their surroundings, Hanoi and Halong Bay in the north , Hoi An in the central , and Ho Chin Minh City and the Mekong Delta in the south . This would allow you to experience the best of Vietnam's culture, history, natural beauty, and cuisine in just 7 days.

Here is a sample itinerary for inspiration:

• Day 1: Hanoi arrival, city sightseeing
• Day 2: Hanoi – Halong Bay, overnight cruise on Halong Bay
• Day 3: Halong Bay - Hanoi, Hanoi – Hoi An
• Day 4: Hoi An sightseeing
• Day 5: Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh
• Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City sightseeing, the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Day 7: Day trip to the Mekong Delta, HCMC departure

On this tour, you would start in Hanoi , exploring the city's rich history and culture. Then, you'd take an overnight trip to Halong Bay to see the stunning natural beauty of the area. While your time is limited, allowing a night to cruise on the bay is highly recommended considering the 2–3 hours' drive to get there, and it is a perfect place to relax for couples or families.

You would then travel to Hoi An , a charming ancient town in central Vietnam, and spend a whole day exploring the town's beautiful architecture, delicious food, etc. Many interesting activities for couples and families can be personalized based on your interests, such as an evening foodie tour, a cooking class, lantern-making, and/or a farming/fishing experience.

Finally, you would end your trip in Ho Chi Minh City , experiencing the bustling city's historic landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and the Vietnam War's legacy — the Cu Chi Tunnels. You would take a day trip to the Mekong Delta to see fertile farmland, handicrafts, and floating markets before departing from Ho Chi Minh City.

Visiting Vietnam in seven days is doable, but it may be too much of a rush, especially if you're traveling with kids. We recommend that you plan a trip of at least 10 days to do the above more comfortably . Our popular 10-day itinerary has been enjoyed by many first-timers. Contact us to have us personalize a tour for you.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 2: The Best of Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam has to be one of the most beautiful regions in the country. With ancient temples, its dramatic seascape, and idyllic countryside, this region is truly breathtaking.

A seven-day trip covering northern Vietnam is recommended for culture and nature lovers . You can choose between a more leisurely tour around Hanoi or add Sapa, a mountainous town a little further north to your itinerary.

Option 1: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Mai Chau – Halong Bay Journey

Our popular Northern Vietnam itinerary would take you on a journey through some of the region's most popular destinations, including Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, and Halong Bay. You'd explore the bustling streets of Hanoi, visit ancient temples and pagodas, marvel at the stunning limestone cliffs and rice paddies of Ninh Binh, have a valley cycling tour in Mai Chau, and enjoy a cruise on the emerald waters of Halong Bay.

Here is a sample itinerary for reference:

• Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
• Day 2: Hanoi city sightseeing
• Day 3: A day tour to immerse yourself in the idyllic countryside of Ninh Binh
• Day 4: Unveil Vietnam's hill tribe culture with a valley cycling tour in Mai Chau.
• Day 5: Discover a H'mong Village during a mountain walk.
• Day 6: A visual feast on a Halong Bay cruise
• Day 7: Halong Bay to Hanoi and departure

See the detailed itinerary or contact us and we'll tailor-make a tour for you .

Option 2: Hanoi–Sapa–Halong Adventure

If you're looking for a more-adventurous experience and to get more of a taste of minority culture in Northern Vietnam, you should definitely consider visiting Sapa. In Sapa, you can trek round its rice terraces and mountains, visit local villages, and learn about the local culture and traditions.

This itinerary is suitable for couples and families who enjoy outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

• Day 3: Uncover the lifestyle of the Black H'mong with a half-day trekking tour in Sapa.
• Day 4: Discover the fairy-tale Love Waterfall, Scenic Heaven's Gate, and Mount Fansipan.
• Day 5: Drive from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay.

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 3: North and Central Vietnam

If you don't want to spend your full week in northern Vietnam, then a 7-day itinerary covering North Vietnam and Central Vietnam is a great option. This itinerary will take you on a journey through some of the most popular destinations in northern and central Vietnam.

You'll explore the bustling streets of Hanoi , enjoy a cruise on the emerald waters of Halong Bay , and stroll through the charming ancient town of Hoi An .

The tour is relatively slow-paced , perfect for families with children or retired couples.

Here is a sample itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi
• Day 2: Hanoi city sightseeing and a street food tour
• Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay, overnight cruising on Halong Bay
• Day 4: Halong Bay – Hoi An
• Day 5: Hoi An sightseeing
• Day 6: Enjoy a free day in Hoi An or experience more activities like a farming or fishing experience, or a cooking class.
• Day 7: End of trip, depart Vietnam

Let us know your ideal tour length and interests, and we'll design a tour for you .

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 4: Central Vietnam

This itinerary focuses on the central region of Vietnam. During your one-week trip, you'd explore the charming ancient town of Hoi An , visit the imperial city of Hue , and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Da Nang .

You'd have the opportunity to take a sunset cruise, enjoy candlelit dinners, and stroll through ancient streets, making it a perfect romantic getaway for couples .

For families, there are plenty of family-friendly activities such as making lanterns, farming/fishing experiences, and trekking in a nature reserve. You'll also have the chance to try delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Time on a tropical beach would top it off nicely.

Suggested itinerary at a glance:

• Day 1: Da Nang arrival and city tour
• Day 2: Da Nang – Hoi An
• Day 3: Hoi An – My Son Sanctuary day trip
• Day 4: Hoi An – Hue
• Day 5: Hue – Bach Ma National Park day trip
• Day 6: Hue – Da Nang
• Day 7: Da Nang departure

Let us tailor-make your trip today and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 5: Southern Vietnam City and Beach Holiday

With its vibrant city, lovely villages, stunning beaches, and incredible food, it's easy to love the south of Vietnam. A trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc Island with a journey into the Mekong Delta will show you the best the region has to offer.

This is a relaxing tour, suitable for families and retired couples who want to enjoy a leisurely vacation .

• Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City arrival
• Day 2: A half-day Ho Chi Minh City tour and the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Day 3: Discover the Mekong Delta.
• Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City – Phu Quoc Island
• Days 5–6: Relax on the beach
• Day 7: Phu Quoc Island – Ho Chi Minh City, departure

Does this itinerary meet your needs? If not, please contact us for customization .

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 6: From Southern Vietnam to North Cambodia

If you don't want to limit your vacation to South Vietnam, you could easily have a tour that combines the best of southern Vietnam and northern Cambodia.

Our popular tour would allow you to uncover the charm of Ho Chi Minh City and unveil the Mekong Delta's lifestyle during your stay in South Vietnam. Then, you'd explore the heart and soul of Cambodia by visiting Angkor Wat and more highlights in Siem Reap.

• Day 2: A half-day Ho Chi Minh City tour plus the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Day 3: Discovering the Mekong Delta
• Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City and flight to Siem Reap
• Day 5: A full day to explore the mysterious Angkor temples
• Day 6: Get to know Cambodia more at Banteay Srei, the Landmine Museum, and Tonle Sap Lake.
• Day 7: Siem Reap Departure

See the detailed itinerary or contact us for a tour tailor-made for you .

Vietnam is a very affordable country. It offers a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, attractions, and tours, at prices that can match different levels of spending.

The costs vary based on different standards and needs. For a private tour, the cost per person for one week in Vietnam ranges from about 1,000 to 2,000 USD (medium budget to luxury).

• For a medium budget, touring Vietnam typically costs around US$ 200-250 per day per person (including airfares within Vietnam, 4- or 5-star hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers).
• For a higher budget of US$250-350 per day per person , more comfort can be enjoyed (including airfares within Vietnam, 5-star or higher hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers).

Tour Vietnam with Us

At Asia Highlights we have lots of experience with creating the perfect trip for any traveler, especially for couples and families. We understand what makes traveling special and are dedicated to providing a personalized and fulfilling experience.

Get a wonderful Vietnam vacation simply by sending us a message . Or check out our sample itineraries for inspiration:

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

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Ultimate 7 Day Vietnam Itinerary (North and Central) 2024

This 7 Day Vietnam Itinerary is the perfect solution for travellers who want to experience all that Vietnam has to offer in just one week. 

I’ve recently spent 3 months solo traveling all around Vietnam and WOW does this beautiful country have so much to offer! 

And, while spending several weeks in Vietnam is ideal, I know most travellers have limited vacation time. So this itinerary will help you make the most of the limited time you have!

So, I’ve used my experience to create the perfect 1 week Vietnam itinerary, focusing on the highlights of North and Central Vietnam, with plenty of options so you can customize it for you. 

Whether you’re planning a quick getaway to Vietnam or combining it with a visit to Thailand , get ready for an unforgettable journey through the wonders of Vietnam!

7 Days in North and Central Vietnam – A Travel Itinerary and Guide

Day 1: arrival in vietnam | land in hanoi, day 2: explore hanoi, day 3: ninh binh day trip, day 4: overnight in halong bay, day 5: fly to da nang / hoi an, day 6: hoi an, day 7: departure from vietnam, mekong delta, extra night in halong bay, where to stay in vietnam, top vietnam tours and activities, share this:.

Pin this 7 Day North + Central Vietnam Tour Itinerary and Travel Guide

PS – Useful Travel Resources to use while heading to Vietnam to tick off this 7 Day North and Central Vietnam Itinerary – 

• Book your Rental Car in Vietnam on Discover Cars and RentalCars.com
• Book the best Vietnam Tours at GetYourGuide or Viator
• Book your Accommodation in Vietnam on Agoda or Booking.com
• Book your train/bus travel tickets in Vietnam on 12Go.Asia
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• Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
• Sign up for a Priority Pass before flying to Vietnam, and get access to premium Airport Lounges.
• Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free vacation in Vietnam.

7 Day Vietnam Itinerary – Overview

Begin your adventure in the bustling capital city of Hanoi, where you’ll immerse yourself in its vibrant culture and rich history. 

Next, venture to Ninh Binh with its breathtaking landscapes and ancient temples. Cruise through the stunning Halong Bay and marvel at its iconic limestone cliffs. 

Continue your journey to the vibrant city of Da Nang explore its beautiful beaches, and take a motorbike tour over the Hai Van Pass. 

Finally, visit the charming town of Hoi An and get lost in its picturesque streets and traditional architecture. 

Welcome to Vietnam | Incense Sticks in a Hanoi Temple – Photo by frank mckenna on Unsplash

Upon arriving at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, you’ll find yourself in the cultural heart of Vietnam. Whenever I arrive back in Southeast Asia, I’m hit with a bit of culture shock – it’s so busy!

To make your way from the airport to the heart of the city, you have a couple of convenient options: taxis or public transportation.

If you prefer a hassle-free ride, take a Grab taxi or arrange a private transfer in advance. I love having a private driver waiting for me when I’m getting off a long flight.

Pro Tip: I always recommend travellers in Southeast Asia download and set up the Grab app (Southeast Asia’s most popular rideshare app) BEFORE leaving home, because they’ll text you a one-time code during set-up, and you might not have cell service when you arrive.

Once you’re settled in your Hanoi accommodation , get ready to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and diverse culture. 

I recommend that you stay in the Old Quarter of Hanoi – you’ll probably spend most of your time here while in town. 

Navigate through its labyrinth of narrow lanes and alleyways, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by a crazy blend of sights, sounds, and aromas. 

Buy some unfamiliar tropical fruits from the street vendors and have a taste. 

Have a bowl of Hanoi’s famous Bun Cha noodle soup at Bún Chả Hàng Quạt , or if you’re not quite ready for local street food, head to Mau Restaurant and try it there. 

Or if you just want to take it all in, stop by one of the million cafes you pass and enjoy the great Vietnamese pastime of people-watching – try Vietnamese coffee, coconut coffee, or egg coffee. Just FYI, egg coffee is more custard than coffee.

To escape the bustling energy of the city, take a peaceful stroll around one of Hanoi’s picturesque lakes. 

Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of the city, is a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists, especially at sunrise and sunset. Admire the iconic red bridge leading to the Ngoc Son Temple and enjoy the serene ambiance as you watch locals practicing tai chi or simply relaxing by the lakeside.

Hoan Kiem Lake | Photo by Bergkinder on Unsplash

For an elevated perspective of Hanoi’s skyline, head up to one of the city’s rooftop bars in the evening. Sip on a refreshing cocktail or a local Hanoi beer while taking in breathtaking panoramic views. 

Exploring Hanoi wouldn’t be complete without indulging in its unique food culture. One of my favourite ways to explore a new city is by taking a food tour. Food tours are a great way to learn more about local food in a non-intimidating way – and they’re always fun and social. I went with Ha Food Tours and had a blast!

On the second day of this Vietnam itinerary, get ready for a fun-filled day exploring Hanoi. Hopefully, the jetlag isn’t too bad.

Start with this Motorbike City Tour (a tour company that mainly hires women tour guides!) and visit some of the attractions that make Hanoi unique. They offer both a city tour (that’s the one I did) and a countryside tour. Take both if you want!

Tours are the best way to see a lot in a short amount of time. And they’re great for solo travellers like me – I make friends on almost every tour I take!

Hanoi Train Street | Photo by Silver Ringvee on Unsplash

Stop by Hanoi 1990s TrainStreet Coffee to watch trains pass through narrow streets with close-knit houses and shops, and explore the Ho Chi Minh Complex to see the preserved remains of Uncle Ho and learn more about Vietnam’s history.

As night falls, complete your day with a traditional water puppet show. These shows are unique performance art pieces that tell tales from Vietnamese folklore accompanied by live traditional music and singing. Be sure to check out Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre for an unforgettable experience!

For travellers looking to further explore the beautiful nature of Vietnam, a day trip to Ninh Binh, which is also one of the Top Bucket List Experiences in Vietnam ,  should be on their itinerary. 

A guided group tour is the best way to fully experience this region in a short window of time – many companies offer day tours from Hanoi. 

The beauty of Ninh Binh

This one is a small-group tour to Tam Coc – located about 2 hours from Hanoi – that includes transportation, a riverboat tour, and a stop at Hoa Lu.

Hoa Lu served as the ancient capital and political center of the country in the 10th and 11th centuries. Today, it’s renowned for its enchanting landscapes, cultural heritage, and fascinating ancient relics. Visitors to Hoa Lu can explore the remnants of the imperial palace, admire the stunning pillars and temples, and immerse themselves in the rich history of this once-thriving capital. 

The boat tour (rowed by a local, often with their feet on the oars) is a must-do for any traveller coming to Ninh Binh! Witness limestone mountains rising out of emerald waters, and explore ancient caves and temples as you journey through unbelievably beautiful riverside scenery. 

No matter how you choose to spend your day in Ninh Binh which is also popularly referred to as Halong Bay on land, you will leave with an unforgettable experience full of stunning views and newfound knowledge about Vietnamese culture.

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. It truly is an amazing sight, with thousands of limestone islands rising out of emerald-green waters. You’ll definitely want to add this stop on your 7 day Vietnam itinerary.

An overnight journey on a traditional junk boat, a classic Chinese sailing vessel, is the best way to experience this spectacular natural wonder.

There are cruises available for all budget ranges, from luxury liners to more casual day trips. 

Halong Bay | Photo by Fuu J on Unsplash

Most visitors will want to take an overnight cruise for the full Halong Bay experience and enjoy discovering hidden lagoons and exploring ancient caves or kayaking along the coastline at sunrise.

Halong Bay has gotten much more crowded now that it is so famous, but the overnight boats go a bit further from shore into less busy parts of the bay. Alternatively, you can look at exploring Cat Ba, or Lan Ha Bay, and this Lan Ha Bay travel guide , will help you with your Vietnam trip plan.

No matter how you choose to spend your time here, you can count on making memories that will last a lifetime – from watching the sunset over the water while sipping a cocktail in your boat’s outdoor lounge area to sharing stories around a bonfire as you drift through secluded coves late into the night.

If you’d rather visit more off-the-beaten-path bays that are just as gorgeous, head to Bai Tu Long Bay, near the Chinese border. This area is much less visited and has some of the same limestone formations as Halong Bay but without the crowds. 

You can also take a boat tour to nearby Yen Duc Village, where you’ll be able to get an up-close look at traditional Vietnamese fishing villages and explore mangrove forests.

Alright, it’s time to head back to the airport in Hanoi and leave Northern Vietnam. Or, if you’d rather spend longer, check out the alternatives at the end of the post – you can customize the itinerary however you want!

You’ll fly to Central Vietnam via Da Nang International Airport (DAD). It’s a quick 1-hour flight, and then another 1-hour drive to Hoi An.

Hoi An is a charming riverside town known for its colorful lanterns and is one of the most popular places to visit in Vietnam. 

Welcome to Hoi An

One reason why Hoi An is so famous is because it has more than 500 tailor shops – you can get custom-made clothing in any style you like! People especially love getting custom suits and formal wear made here. I had 6 different pieces made at Two Ladies Tailor and wish I could have had at least 6 more.

Your tailor will talk to you about what you’re looking for, sketch out a design, measure you, and help you select fabric. A few hours later, your clothes will be ready for a fitting! Then a few hours after that or by the next day, they’ll make adjustments as needed and your clothes will be ready to take home. It’s like magic!

The streets are lined with cafes, noodle shops, and banh mi stands, so you won’t go hungry. My favourite place to try Hoi An’s famous White Rose dumplings and Mi Quang noodles is Quán Cao lầu Bá Lễ .

Hoi An also offers plenty of ways to explore the local culture. You can wander around the ancient town to see historical architecture, or take a boat tour through nearby mangrove forests and traditional Vietnamese fishing villages. 

For those looking for adventure, this Hai Van Pass motorbike tour is the perfect way to explore Marble Mountain and the Hue countryside. You’ll see stunning views from the top of Hai Van Pass and feel the wind in your hair as you make your way through small villages along the coast. 

This tour was my first time using an “easy rider” – an experienced motorbike rider does the driving and you play the part of passenger princess enjoying the views – and I loved it! No stress and all fun. 

We made a bunch of stops in the most scenic places including a beachside seafood restaurant for lunch, a beautiful natural spring to cool off, and a photo session at the Big Buddha in Da Nang.

Another option for Day 6 is to stay in Hoi An itself and take part in a traditional Vietnamese cooking class in Hoi An . Learn about traditional Vietnamese cuisine and create dishes that you can enjoy with your friends or family later on in your travels. Many classes also offer market tours where you’ll learn about local ingredients used in traditional Vietnamese cooking.

If you’re looking for a relaxing day, there’s always a beach day! The nearby Cua Dai Beach offers endless opportunities to soak up some sun, take a dip in the ocean, or just relax with a good book. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby if you need something to eat or souvenirs to bring home with you.

Or you can do the BaNa Hills and Golden Bridge Day Tour from Hoi An .

Golden Bridge – BaNa Hills | Photo by Andreea Popa on Unsplash

Or, the My Son Temple and Sanctuary Tour.   If you like visiting such archeological sites and ruins, you should definitely add the UNESCO World Heritage site of Angkor Wat , in Cambodia to your South East Asia Itinerary. And this 7 Day Cambodia Travel Itinerary , will answer all your queries, and help you tick off one of the most popular attractions in the World.

My Son Temple and Sanctuary | Photo by Steve Douglas on Unsplash

No matter what activity you choose to do on Day 6, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience during your travels in Vietnam!

On the last day of this 1 week Vietnam itinerary, you’ll head back to the Da Nang International Airport for your flight out of Vietnam. 

Before saying goodbye to Hoi An, stop for one last banh mi before you go. 

Once you’re all set with everything ready for departure, check in at least two hours before your flight and head towards security. The airport has plenty of shops and eateries if you want to pick up anything as a souvenir or just grab something quick before takeoff.

As you board the plane and look at Da Nang from above, remember that this journey was full of experiences that made this week unforgettable! 

Whether it’s visiting old temples, exploring stunning beaches, or trying new cuisine – Vietnam has left its mark on you. 

Now it’s time for a new destination – or maybe even home – in the next chapter of your adventure!

Things to Add to Your Vietnam Itinerary

Ha Giang is a great option for travellers looking for something off the beaten path. It’s quite far from Hanoi – about 6 hours – so not ideal for a 1 week itinerary, but a perfect addition to an extensive South East Asia travel itinerary.

Ha Giang  | Photo by Phuong Anh on Unsplash

With its dramatic hills, limestone formations, and tranquil rice terraces, it’s one of the best places in Vietnam to experience nature and traditional culture. 

You can take slow hikes along the mountainside or opt for a more challenging trek up Fansipan, Vietnam’s highest mountain. Either way, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and a unique glimpse into local life.

To explore the Mekong Delta region, Ho Chi Minh in south Vietnam is the perfect starting point. 

Mekong Delta Day Trip from Ho Chi Minh City | Photo by Tomáš Malík on Unsplash

The city itself offers plenty of attractions such as the Cu Chi Tunnels, the War Remnants Museum, and lively night markets, which are just some of the Best Things to do in Saigon / Ho Chi Minh city . But beyond that lies an incredible chance to experience rural Vietnam through boat trips down winding canals and treks into lush jungles.

Finally, an extra night in Halong Bay is an opportunity not to be missed! 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994, this stunning bay is composed of nearly 2000 islands jutting out of emerald waters – many topped with rainforests filled with exotic wildlife. 

I spent 2 nights and 3 days on a junkboat and will never forget it.

A lot of travellers visiting Vietnam head straight to Thailand after their 7 days in Vietnam as it’s only an hour and a half flight away!

From the vibrant capital of Bangkok to the renowned beaches of Koh Samui and Phi Phi Islands, there are endless places to explore. My personal favourite place in Thailand is the northern city of Chiang Mai – not to be missed!

If you plan on adding Thailand to your South East Asia Tour Itinerary, we recommend that you check out this 7 Day Phuket Dive + Travel Itinerary along with this Bangkok Weekend Travel Itinerary and Chiang Mai 3 Day Itinerary , which will help you plan for your trip to Thailand. Furthermore, you should also check out the Best Hotels and Resorts in Thailand and the Best Tours and Activities in Phuket , to have a hassle free vacation in Thailand.

Vietnam is one of the Cheapest Travel Destinations in the World. What that means, is that there are plenty of amazing hotels and resorts for you to choose from, at a fraction of the price, compared to other destinations.  Having said that, here are our recommendations that you can check out – 

Top Hotels and Resorts in Hanoi – Kén Hotel by Connek | Silk Hanoi Moment Hotel & Spa | Eliana Signature Hanoi Hotel | Hanoi Paradise Center Hotel & Spa

While booking your hotel in Hanoi, try booking one which is in the Old Quarter or at walking distance from the Hoan Kiem Lake (the heart of Hanoi), and all our recommendations are near Hoan Kiem Lake.

Top Hotels and Resorts in Hoi An – Long Life Riverside Hotel | BAY RESORT HOI AN | Anantara Hoi An Resort  

While booking your hotel in Hoi An, try booking one which is in Hoi An Ancient Town, as that’s where all the action is in the evenings, and all our recommendations are in Hoi An Ancient Town only.

Or you can simply enter your dates, and hit the search button in the box below, to search and compare prices for the Best Hotels in Vietnam, based on your needs.

Top Hanoi Tours and Activities – Hanoi Jeep Tours | Hanoi Street Food Tour | Hanoi Motorbike Tours |  Full Day Ninh Binh Day Tour from Hanoi | 2 D/ 1 N All Inclusive Halong Bay Cruise  

Top Hoi An Tours and Attractions – Hoi An City and Countryside Tour | Coconut Forest Basket Boat Ride | Hoi An Street Food Tour on Motorbike | My Son Sanctuary Half Day Tour | BaNa Hills and Golden Bridge Day Tour | Marble Mountain and Monkey Mountains Sunset Tour from Hoi An

7 Day Vietnam Travel Itinerary – Summary

Day 1 – Arrival in Hanoi | Explore Hanoi

Day 2 – Full Day Hanoi Exploration

Day 3 – Ninh Binh Day Trip from Hanoi

Day 4 – Hanoi – Halong Bay | Stay in Halong Bay / Cat Ba

Day 5 – Halong Bay – Hanoi | Fly to Da Nang | Da Nang – Hoi An

Day 6 – Explore Hoi An

Day 7 – Fly out from Da Nang | Departure from Vietnam

This 7 day Vietnam Itinerary is the perfect way to experience the best of what this diverse country has to offer and shows you why Vietnam is one of the best Southeast Asian countries to visit. 

You’ll experience the preserved Vietnamese culture of Hanoi, the beauty of Halong Bay, and the serene countryside of Hue. You’ll visit historical sites like Hoi An Ancient Town and relax on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. And you’ll eat some of the best food you’ve ever had in your life.

With a mix of history, nature, and culture, this itinerary offers unique experiences for everyone and allows them to make lifelong memories. 

So if you’re looking for an adventure-packed week full of surprises and excitement, you’re ready to go!

This 7 Day Vietnam Tour Itinerary was thoughtfully drafted by Cat from Cat is Out of the Office . Cat is a very hungry solo female traveler in her 30s, who left a 6-figure job in NYC to travel (and taste!) the world. Cat is determined to prove that there are ways to backpack the world on a budget without fully sacrificing the “grown-up” lifestyle you love.  

Don’t forget to Pin this Vietnam Travel Guide and Vietnam Trip Planner featuring an exhaustive 7 Day North and Central Vietnam Travel Itinerary , carefully crafted and curated by a travel expert, which will help you in planning for your trip to Vietnam.

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The perfect 7 days itinerary

Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country known for its beaches, rivers, Buddhist pagodas, and bustling cities. Hanoi , the capital, pays homage to the nation’s iconic Communist-era leader, Ho Chi Minh, via a huge marble mausoleum. Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) has French colonial landmarks, plus Vietnamese War history museums and the Củ Chi tunnels, used by Viet Cong soldiers. The country is also famous for its delicious cuisine, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes.

What to do in Vietnam?

This 7 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Vietnam. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi , the capital city of Vietnam. Check into your hotel and freshen up.

Start your exploration with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum , the final resting place of Vietnam's revolutionary leader. Nearby, visit the One Pillar Pagoda , a historic Buddhist temple.

Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre .

Day 2: Explore Hanoi's Old Quarter and Temples

Visit the Temple of Literature , Vietnam's first national university, dedicated to Confucius. Then, head to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the diverse cultures of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups.

Explore the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter . Visit the Dong Xuan Market for some local shopping and try some street food.

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Day Trip to Halong Bay

Take a day trip to Halong Bay , a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests. Board a traditional junk boat for a cruise around the bay.

Explore the stunning caves and grottoes, and enjoy a seafood lunch on board. You can also go kayaking or take a swim in the bay.

Return to Hanoi and relax at your hotel.

Day 4: Travel to Hoi An

Fly to Da Nang and take a short drive to Hoi An , a charming ancient town known for its well-preserved architecture and lantern-lit streets. Check into your hotel.

Explore the historic streets of Hoi An . Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge , the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation , and the Hoi An Museum .

Enjoy a riverside dinner and take a lantern boat ride on the Thu Bon River .

Day 5: Cooking Class and Beach Time in Hoi An

Take a Vietnamese cooking class. Visit a local market to pick fresh ingredients and learn to cook traditional dishes.

Relax at An Bang Beach . Enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. You can also try some water sports.

Explore more of Hoi An 's night market and enjoy some local street food.

Day 6: Travel to Ho Chi Minh City

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City , formerly known as Saigon. Check into your hotel.

Visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the Vietnam War. Then, explore the Reunification Palace , a landmark in Ho Chi Minh City 's history.

Stroll down Nguyen Hue Walking Street and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant with a view of the city.

Day 7: Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels and Departure

Take a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels , an extensive network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Learn about the history and even crawl through some of the tunnels.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City and do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Head to the airport for your departure flight.

Discover more Vietnam itineraries

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The Perfect Vietnam Itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 Weeks

• Last Updated: January 25, 2024

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam for 1, 2, or 3 weeks then you must start with this post to help plan your Vietnam itinerary. 

Vietnam has something for everyone. It’s bursting with history, delicious foods, hiking opportunities, beautiful landscapes, beaches, and of course the wonderful Vietnamese people.  

Our Vietnam itinerary guide will give you an overview of the country, with some great itinerary options depending on how long you plan to visit. 

We have something for everyone with:

• 10 days in Vietnam: Highlights Itinerary – These are the must-see places in Vietnam
• 1 week in Vietnam focusing on the North
• 1 week in Vietnam focusing on the South
• 2 weeks in Vietnam, by combining the two above
• 3 weeks in Vietnam, or longer, by adding our extended options to your itinerary.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our complete guide to travelling in Vietnam !

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Hanoi 

Day 2 and 3 – halong bay, day 4 and 5 – sapa , day 6 and 7 – hue , day 8 – hoi an, day 9 and 10 – explore saigon, and take a full or half-day tour to the cu chi tunnels or the mekong delta, tour options, da nang , day 2 and 3 – ha long bay, day 4 and 5 – sapa, day 6  – hue, day 7 – hoi an, ninh binh (near hanoi), phong nha – ke bang national park (near hue), my son (near hoi an), ba be national park (near sapa), bach ma national park (between dan nang and hue), dong ha – for dmz tour (between dong hoi and da nang), day 1 – nha trang , day 2 – dalat , day 3 – mui ne , day 4 and 5 – ho chi minh city, day 6 and 7 – phu quoc island, cu chi tunnels or the mekong delta , con dao island, cat tien national park, did you find my vietnam itinerary helpful, 1, 2, and 3-week vietnam itinerary options .

We broke this Vietnam Itinerary into three main sections. 

Simply decide how long you have, and use one of our itineraries to guide you to the top things to do in Vietnam!

10 Days in Vietnam Itinerary: Vietnam Highlights

Our 10 days in Vietnam itinerary will highlight the absolute best of North and South Vietnam – from hiking in Sapa , to sinking beer in lively Ho Chi Minh City (more commonly referred to by its former name, Saigon).

This can be the core of a longer 2 or 3-week journey by adding extension opportunities to it.

You can do this trip from North to South, or in reverse.

After flying into Hanoi, you’ll have one day to see this beautiful city, so get ready to hit the ground running. 

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and is full of beautiful architecture, culture, and unique food.  The old city is surrounded by remnants of fortified walls, and most things you will want to visit are in the Old Quarter. 

I would suggest finding a walking tour, so you can learn about the city’s history as you explore the city.

Take a stroll around the Hoàn Kiếm Lake and visit the Temple of the Jade Moutain, and stop to help the locals practice their English. 

Try the local beer called Bia hơi or fresh beer, which is brewed fresh each morning, and doesn’t contain any preservatives. 

One of the best things to do in Hanoi is to have an egg coffee while sitting at a café in Hanoi’s Train Street. 

Then get ready to get out of the way when the train rattles past, so close to you that it takes your breath away!

For dinner, don’t forget to have a regional specialty, called Bun Cha. It’s found all through the old quarter, so you won’t have to go far to find it. 

Where to stay in Hanoi: We recommend staying right in the Old Quarter.

READ MORE: Learn more about what to do in Hanoi with our Hanoi city guide .

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and is one of the most popular things to see in Vietnam.  

The stunning bay is full of thousands of limestone islands, pristine beaches, caves, and floating villages.  The Vietnamese call it The Bay of the Descending Dragons. 

One of the best ways to visit the islands is by boat. 

You can take one of the many cruises on offer from the tour operators in town, taking you from Hanoi to Halong Bay, spending a night onboard a boat, and returning you to Hanoi the following day. 

Alternatively, make your own way to Halong Bay, and arrange a boat from there. 

Halong Bay cruise options vary depending on your budget.

The cruises normally include kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, swimming, visiting floating villages, and exploring caves.

If you find the Halong Bay cruises a little out of your budget, check out this guide to Halong Bay on a budget . 

Where to stay in Ha Long Bay: Spend the first night at Halong bay, preferably on board a junk boat.  Alternatively, spend the night on Cat Ba Island . Return to Hanoi, and spend the second night there, ready to head to Sapa in the morning.

After a restful night in Hanoi after your cruise, and having enjoyed some more Bun Cha and fresh beer, it’s time to get on a bus from Hanoi to Sapa.

You can also travel by train if you prefer, but buses are the fastest and the best way to get to Sapa from Hanoi. 

Alternatively, you can hire a private car, which will get you there faster, but at considerably more expensive.

Sapa is a region in Vietnam’s northwest and is home to beautiful terraced rice fields, great trekking, and exquisite vistas. 

Sapa has some of the best trekking in Vietnam . 

You can navigate some of these hikes yourself, arrange a private guide, or organize one of the many tours, either from Hanoi or in Sapa itself. 

The most popular attraction in Sapa is the highest mountain in the region, Fan Si Pan .

But unless you take the cable car to the top, you’ll need more time in the area for this hike. 

Some of the shorter day hikes are Cat Cat, and Tả Phìn , which can be done with or without a guide.

Where to stay in Sapa: Spend two nights in Sapa.  Consider a mountain lodge for the true Sapa experience, and then hop on the bus back to Hanoi early the following day.  Then fly from Hanoi to Hue. If you would prefer not to fly, you can take an overnight train or bus from Hanoi to Hue instead, arriving in the morning of Day 7.

Hue is the old Imperial City, and is where the Nguyen Dynasty held the throne for 143 years. 

The last Emperor, Bao Dai, abdicated his throne and power passed to Ho Chi Minh.

During the American War, the North Vietnamese Army captured Hue as part of the Tet Offensive. 

Thus began a battle to regain the Imperial city by the South Vietnamese and the Americans, which lasted almost a month with thousands dead, and the city was mostly destroyed. 

After spending the previous night in Hue, or arriving in the morning by bus or train, visit the Old City with its pavilions, beautiful temples, and the Royal Palace , all protected by high walls, exquisite gates, and moats. 

Hue is also known for the tombs of the Ancient Emperors.  They are all intricate and beautiful.

But don’t miss the Tomb of Tu Duc , or a visit to Tu Hieu Pagoda , which dates back to 1843. 

One of the last things to do in Hue is to try the famous Bún Bò Huế , a local noodle dish with beef and chili oil, washed down with fresh beer. 

Where to stay in Hue: Spend another night in Hue, then head off early on Day 8 to Hoi An.  The most spectacular way is on a motorbike tour through the Hai Van Pass.  The operators will take you on the back of a motorbike, and deliver both you and your luggage to your hotel in Hoi An.

Alternatively, you can take a private car or bus.

READ MORE: Learn more about what to do in Hue with our Hue city guide .

Explore the beautiful city, and enjoy some rest and relaxation at the beach, sitting on beach chairs and drinking cold coconuts. 

The old town is simply stunning. As you walk around you’ll pass stores selling little souvenirs,  great restaurants, and lots of clothes.

Hoi An is the place to be if you want to have some clothes made.  Tailors are everywhere, and prices are affordable. 

Make sure to head out into town at night, as the city lights up with hanging lanterns, and comes alive with markets, street food, and people. 

While out and about visit the wooden Japanese Covered Bridge from the 18 th Century, and take a boat ride up the river to get a better view of the lights. 

Use Grab or take a taxi or scooter and head to the beach.  You can sit at one of the many restaurants, use their lounge chairs and stay all afternoon soaking up the sun!

Where to stay in Hoi An: Spend the night in Hoi An, and fly from nearby Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City the next morning.

READ MORE: Add these things to do in Hoi An to your itinerary !

After experiencing incredible Hoi An, it’s time for one last big effort as we reach the home stretch of our 10-day itinerary. 

Our time allows for one of two tour options, or if you have an extra day, both.

Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh, is a bustling array of buildings, people, food and scooters! 

Saigon is where a lot of ex-pats live as it offers so much variety and, like New York, the city never sleeps! 

These are your last couple of days in Vietnam, and there is plenty to see.  The Vietnam War Museum, Notre Dame (yes they have one too!), the beautiful Central Post Office, and Independence Palace are all must-see destinations while in HCMC.

One of the things to do in Ho Chi Minh City is to head to Bui Ven Walking Street , where all the action happens. 

After dark, this street is packed with people sitting at small plastic tables and chairs sinking beers, eating street food, and people-watching. 

After a few beers and some food, head back to your hotel and get some rest before your flight home.

READ MORE: Consider these 8 day trips from Ho Chi Minh City .

The Cu Chi Tunnels

Even if you’re not particularly interested in Vietnam’s war history, this is an interesting place to visit. 

There are two different locations, Ben Dinh and Ben Doc . 

Most tour companies usually head to the one closest to the city, Ben Dinh, which is also the largest. 

The Tunnels offer an interesting insight into what it was like for the people fighting in the Vietnam/American War, their living conditions, and how they used the tunnels to hide underground during the day and fight the enemy at night.  

Today you can go into some of the tunnels, which have been widened for westerners to fit in. 

You can only visit the tunnels with a guide, which is provided as part of the entry ticket or part of your tour . 

The Mekong Delta Tour

If small little tunnels aren’t your thing and you would prefer to take a pleasant boat ride down the Mekong river instead, there are half-day tours available from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta. 

Mekong Delta tours usually include exploring small canals by a sampan boat, visiting villages and islands, sampling exotic fruit and touring a coconut candy farm. Yum!

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City: For your two nights in Saigon, stay in District 1 to be right in the middle of everything, District 3 if you’d like a more relaxed stay that’s still only moments away from the action or District 4 for a real local experience.

Extension Option

If you’re able to extend your tour to 2 weeks in Vietnam, you’ll have more time for these excursions. Any 2 week Vietnam itinerary should include these!

Da Nang has lots to offer .  If you are comfortable on a scooter or motorbike, you can ride from Hue to Da Nang (before going to Hoi An), through the Hai Van Pass . 

This route used to be a little dangerous due to all the cars and trucks using the pass.

But since they have built the new freeway and tunnel there is very little traffic, making it a very enjoyable and incredibly scenic ride.  

The best way to do this is by motorbike tour from Hue, to either Da Nang or to Hoi An, or in reverse. 

Setting out from Da Nang, Ba Na Hills is a scooter ride away.  You may recognize the bridge seemingly held up by two large hands.

Between Da Nang and Hoi An lies Marble Mountain , and to the east of Da Nang there’s a large Buddhist temple complex and pagoda called Chua Linh Ung .

If you have longer in Vietnam and would like to explore more of this beautiful country, combine our North and South options below to create a 2 weeks in Vietnam itinerary. 

2 Week Vietnam Itinerary – 1 Week in the North

Start your 2 weeks in Vietnam in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city, with beautiful architecture, culture, and food. 

While in Hanoi don’t forget to try egg coffee, fresh beer (Bia hơi), and especially the regional dish of Hanoi, Bun Cha .   (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Hanoi: Spend the night in Hanoi.  We recommend staying right in the Old Quarter.

Ha Long Bay, with its beautiful limestone islands, is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. 

It’s a must-see while in Vietnam, with an overnight boat tour to the islands, and other fun activities like SUPing, kayaking, and exploring caves. 

The easiest way to see Ha Long Bay is to organize a tour from Hanoi . (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Ha Long Bay: Spend the first night at Ha Long Bay, preferably on board a junk boat.  Alternatively, spend the night on Cat Ba Island .  Return to Hanoi, and spend the second night there, ready to head to Sapa in the morning.

Think of beautiful rice terraces set high up in the mountains, trekking, and staying in mountain lodges. 

Sapa is located in the northwest part of the country, and best seen by a two-day tour from Hanoi. (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Sapa: Spend two nights in Sapa.  Consider a mountain lodge for the true Sapa experience, and then hop on the bus back to Hanoi early the following day.  Then fly from Hanoi to Hue.

If you would prefer not to fly, you can take an overnight train or bus from Hanoi to Hue instead, arriving in the morning of Day 7.

The old imperial city still has many secrets to uncover. 

Hidden behind towering walls and large gates, you can explore where the last Emperor ruled from before abdicating his rule in favor of Ho Chi Minh.

This is where the North Vietnamese overtook the city, sparking a battle that lasted for almost a month in what was known as the Tet Offensive. (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Hue: Spend the night in town.  Leave your bags at your hotel while you explore the city the next morning, then head to Hoi An after lunch. 

The most spectacular way is on a motorbike tour through the Hai Van Pass .  The operators will take you on the back of a motorbike, and deliver both you and your luggage to your hotel in Hoi An.

Head to the beach during the day and relax on one of the many lounge chairs offered by the restaurants lining the foreshore of Central Vietnam.

In the evening enjoy the magical old town that comes alive at night with lights, markets, food, and more!  (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Hoi An: Spend the night in Hoi An, and fly from nearby Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City, or head to Nha Trang to link up with the Southern Vietnam Itinerary below.

READ MORE: Add these things to do in Hoi An to your 2 week Vietnam itinerary!

Extension Options

If you want more time in the north during your 2 week Vietnam itinerary, add on these trips such as Ninh Binh and some cool national parks.

Considered the inland version of Halong Bay, Ninh Binh is best seen by boat, on a pushbike, or scooter. 

We spent two full days in Ninh Binh and enjoyed a pushbike ride in the surrounding area.

We then hired a scooter in Ninh Binh and set out to see more of the beautiful lush hills, taking a boat ride through Tam Coc, and visiting pagodas.

You can easily book an awesome 2-day, 1-night tour of Ninh Binh from Hanoi if you’re not comfortable riding a scooter in the crazy Vietnam traffic.

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is home to over 300 caves and grottoes.  This UNESCO World Heritage Site protects the oldest karst system in Vietnam. 

It comprises of a precious ecosystem, limestone forest, and the world’s largest cave, Son Doong . 

The park offers eco-tourism, mountain climbing, trekking, flora and fauna, and caving. 

Some of this can be done independently, but tours are often the best option to get the most out of your time. 

The My Son ruins are another important UNESCO World Heritage site in central Vietnam. 

This temple complex was built by the Champas during their rule, and was influenced by Hinduism. 

The ruins of the brick temples and sculptures are often likened to Angkor Wat in Cambodia or Bagan in Myanmar.

Book a tour of My Son to make the most of your experience.

Ba Be Lake is the centre of the National Park, and of the Ba Be Lake legend. 

People believe that the lake was formed by an enchantress, who cursed the people of the surrounding area for not showing compassion to her when she asked for help.

Legends aside, Ba Be Lake offers a wide range of activities, from trekking, kayaking, motor-biking, waterfalls, caves, and the natural beauty and diversity of the area. 

The highest point of Bach Ma National Park is the 1450m high mountain of the same name. 

The park is known for its biodiversity, with lots of birds, flora, mammals, and primates.

The government finally protected the area in 1962, after the area was greatly damaged due to the use of agent orange during the Vietnam War.

The area is now safe for people to explore and is best seen with a tour guide . 

You can hike the Five Lakes Cascade Trail taking in the waterfalls, visit the monastery, and hike the Pheasant Trail .  

A visit to the demilitarized zone (DMZ), is a great one-day outing for history buffs. 

The DMZ area was the dividing line between North and South Vietnam during the war, and as a result, saw heavy fighting. 

The tour explains the extent of the fighting in this area, and the importance of the location in the Vietnam War. 

2 Week Vietnam Itinerary – 1 Week in the South

Next on your 2 weeks in Vietnam, spend 1 week in the south of Vietnam. You could easily spend 2 weeks in Vietnam in just the north or the south, but you can also spread out your time between both areas.

Our Southern itinerary begins in Nha Trang.  Either fly there from Saigon or Hanoi, or take a bus down from Hoi An if you’re continuing on from our Northern Itinerary.

Nha Trang is the most famous seaside resort in Vietnam and is known for its white-sand beaches, coastal islands, and clear waters with abundant marine life, making it perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling. 

The town itself also offers interesting cultural sites close by, and places where you can pamper yourself with a mud-bath, or enjoy a seafood dinner. 

Where to stay in Nha Trang: Spend a night in Nha Trang, and take a bus or private car to Dalat the next morning.

After a relaxing time on the beach, it’s time to get some more culture in during your 2 week Vietnam itinerary! 

Dalat is heavily influenced by the colonial period from the French occupation, as the French built their holiday homes here to take advantage of the temperate weather.

With beautiful buildings, gardens, interesting architecture, coffee and tea plantation tours, waterfalls, mountain biking, hiking, and canyoning , you don’t want to miss out on this city!

Where to stay in Dalat: Spend the night in Dalat, and take a bus or private car to Mui Ne the next morning.

READ MORE: Learn more about what to do in Dalat with our Dalat city guide .

Three main things are offered in this beautiful resort destination; relaxation, watersports, and sand dunes.

Mui Ne beach is dotted with resorts, hotels, and hostels, and is a great place to just sit and enjoy your surroundings. 

Although Mui Ne is more than just the beach, this area is set up for tourists and has one main street of shops, cafes, bars, and shopping.

Being a beach town, watersports are a big thing here, and just about everything is on offer from kitesurfing to parasailing. 

The Mui Ne sand dunes are popular, and a spectacular sight. 

There are two locations, the smaller, closer, red sand dunes, and the white sand dunes about 26km from town. 

Tours are available for both locations and you can also hire dune buggies, or go sledding! 

Where to stay in Mui Ne: Spend a night in Mui Ne, then shake the sand from your belongings and take a bus or the train to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) the next morning.

There’s so much to see and experience in this historic city, including day tours to some pretty important locations, that you’ll need two days .  

On the first day, you’ll head out into Ho Chi Minh City.  It has some great cultural sites, like the Vietnam War Museum, Independence Palace, Notre Dame, and it also boasts some pretty great nightlife too.  

For the second day, we suggest you head out of the city on a day tour.  There are two great options: The Chu Chi Tunnels, or a trip to the Mekong Delta. (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City: For your two nights in Saigon, stay in District 1 to be right in the middle of everything, District 3 if you’d like a more relaxed stay that’s still only moments away from the action or District 4 for a real local experience. Fly to Phu Quoc Island on Day 6.

Phu Quoc is a small island off the coast of Cambodia, lined with white sand beaches and palm trees.  

There are many resorts along the southwest coast providing you with ample opportunity for some relaxation time, while you swim, and eat your last fill of tasty Vietnamese food.   

Phu Quoc island is home to mountains, tropical rainforest, hiking and wildlife, all within its National Park. 

Lots of tours are available to explore the island which offers snorkelling as well, or you can hire a scooter and set off by yourself.

Where to stay in Phu Quoc Island: Spend two relaxing nights on Phu Quoc Island, then fly back to Saigon to catch your onward flight!

If you have more time to spend during your 2 weeks in Vietnam, take the ferry to the mainland, and continue overland to some of the extension options listed below, or to Cambodia.

If you have more time for your 2 week Vietnam itinerary, or you want to further explore one area rather than hopping around, here are some ideas!

Depending on what you did in 7 days for our Southern Vietnam Itinerary, if you have time you might like to see the other option best explored out of Ho Chi Minh City.  (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

During the French occupation, and later the Saigon regime, this island was used to house political prisoners and prisoners that were considered especially dangerous.

Aside from its harrowing past, the island is known for its natural beauty with over 80% of the island being a National Park. 

These days the island is frequented for its spectacular snorkelling and diving, with abundant coral reefs, beautiful beaches, and hidden lagoons.   

Can Tho is the de facto capital of the delta region and an unassuming city full of life. 

Most of the activity happens around the pier where you can enjoy great food and cold beer. 

Boat rides are available to show you more of the city and surrounding area, and visit some early-morning markets. 

If you’d like a little break from the tourists and are looking to just relax and hang out with the locals, Qui Nhon is the place to come . 

Unspoiled by tourism, this sleepy town has squeaky white sand beaches, snorkeling, swimming, temples, and museums. 

Cat Tien National Park is comprised of two sections Cat Loc, and Nam Cat Tien, the former being the most visited of the two. 

The river by Nam Cat Tien houses an important Hindu archaeological site and temple, where a large number of artifacts have been uncovered and are now in the Dalat museum. 

The national park has spectacular flora and fauna and trekking.

READ MORE: 33 amazing things to do in Vietnam !

Vietnam is a large and diverse country, with a great deal to offer the traveller who goes in with an open mind and heart. 

While we’ve listed what we feel are the main highlights, there is much more to be explored when you visit Vietnam.

Friendly people really make Vietnam a special place to visit.

The itineraries listed above are a bare minimum if you need to get the most out of a short amount of time. 

While doable, if possible it would be a much more relaxing trip if you could pad it out by adding a few days to your Vietnam itinerary, and slow down a little!

We hope you have a wonderful time there!

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3 Weeks In Vietnam: 3 Itineraries with Map

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If there’s a place that I will forever recommend someone to visit – it’s Vietnam. I’ve visited this country so many times and even lived there during the pandemic border closure and had the pleasure of getting to know its culture a lot more.

I’ve travelled to Vietnam as a broke backpacker but also had the chance to travel with lavish and luxe. So, regardless of your travel style, there are various ways to explore this country according to your level of comfort and budget.

I’ve created three different 3 weeks in Vietnam travel itineraries for you to choose from. But first, let’s talk about the places to see in Vietnam. You can also use the table of contents below to jump to the itineraries.

It is no surprise that Vietnam has been gaining popularity as one of the most visited tourist destinations in Southeast Asia over recent years. Its lush mountains, historical cities, and world-class cuisine attract people from all over the world.

The fact that many of its old cities have retained their time-honoured traditions is another aspect of the country’s unique identity that entices visitors. So, if you are planning a trip of 3 weeks in Vietnam, here are the essential things you need to know to have a great holiday.

THINGS TO REMEMBER BEFORE VISITING VIETNAM

Vietnam is a largely cash-based society, so make sure you carry some with you at all times. Another thing to remember when you travel in Vietnam is always to keep your hotel’s business card when you go sightseeing.

Since many taxi drivers or motorbike drivers do not speak English, especially in rural towns, you can show them the card so they will know where to drive you back . Alternatively, you can install a ride-hailing app on your smartphone that will help make it easier to get around. This can also assist in keeping transportation costs down.

Additionally, the country is notorious for its busy streets filled with motorbikes. Stepping out into that dense traffic can be terrifying, so always be vigilant when you are crossing the roads. 

Here is more information to help decide and plan your itinerary for 3 weeks in Vietnam:

When to visit Vietnam

Vietnam is the only country in Southeast Asia that actually experiences freezing cold winters – and that’s northern Vietnam. Because of its size and shape, the weather here varies a lot, so make sure to pay extra time in figuring out where you want to go and do before booking anything.

The best time to visit Vietnam is from December to February i f you visit either the Central or South of Vietnam or both. During these times of the year, you can enjoy mild weather with little chance of rain. But the long and narrow shape of the country means that the climate can vary significantly depending on where you go. 

If you are visiting the north, it’s best to go between October to December or May to August. The north, central, and south regions each have distinctive climates, and it is essential to plan ahead, depending on which region you wish to stay in.

But, if you want to see the entire country of Vietnam for 3 weeks, I recommend going between June and August and then from November to March.

• When is the summer : March to May
• When is the typhoon season/winter season : April to September and October to late March
• Biggest national holidays : Tet or Vietnamese New Year (either the last week of January or the first week of February, the holiday lasts for 1-2 weeks)

Are three weeks enough for Vietnam

20 days is an ideal time to spend in Vietnam. Because of how it’s shaped, there are only two smart ways to travel around Vietnam; you either go up north or down south. In 3 weeks, you’d be able to visit at least 4-5 cities, depending on your mode of transportation.

Of course, the more time you have, the better. But having limited time doesn’t mean you can’t go to Vietnam. 20 days is plenty with good planning and mindset. The first time I went around Vietnam, it took me 3 weeks to finish Sapa to Ho Chi Minh City.

The second time, I only had 2 weeks in Vietnam , but I still managed to see my favourite locations and visit Phu Quoc Island. But for people who want to jam-pack their itinerary, 3 weeks in Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia is possible.

How to get around

Transportation in Vietnam is pretty easy. Download the app called Grab, which works like Uber. You can book a private car, taxi, or even a motorbike and pay with your card (link it on the app) or cash.

I recommend you download the apps before arriving in Vietnam so you can set up the payment with a card and order a ride from the airport to your hotel.

However, if you plan to motorbike around Vietnam , 3 weeks means you must travel quickly. You can also take the motorbike up to the central region of Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang), and then travel by bus for the rest.

Travelling by bus, train, especially by air will save you some time (if you can sleep comfortably on a bus) and make the most of your trip. 12go.asia is my favourite platform to book any transportation in Vietnam.

I recommend you always carry a copy of your hotel’s business card in case you get lost or can’t book a service, show the business card to the driver, and they’ll be able to bring you back to your hotel.

Not many nationalities can enjoy visa-free when travelling to Vietnam. In that situation, if you wish to visit Vietnam can now apply for a 30-day evisa or a 90-day visa on arrival. This is perfect if you want to spend 3 weeks in Vietnam.

For a 30-day evisa, you don’t need to pay anything extra when you arrive in Vietnam. Just get your stamp at the immigration after you show your evisa document. But if you’re applying for a visa on arrival that is over 30 days, you need to pay for a visa sticker , which is about $25 or more, depending on how many days you plan to stay.

Average cost per day (per person): $25-$200

Travelling to Vietnam is not expensive. The cost is comparable to that of Thailand, Malaysia, and most other Southeast Asian countries. Some items might be cheaper or more expensive in Vietnam compared to its neighbours, but in general, you should be able to survive on a budget of $25 to $200 per day.

• On the budget : $25-$35 per day
• On the mid-range : $60-$80 per day
• On luxury : $100 and above per day
• Most expensive cost : flights to and from Vietnam
• Cheapest cost : accommodation, food, transportation

What to Pack

Knowing what to pack for Vietnam can be quite tricky. As mentioned above, different regions make up this country: north, central, and south. It can also have various landscapes–from beaches to mountains.

You can determine what to pack based on what your itinerary will be like , and which activities you are planning to engage with.

Since Vietnam is full of stunning mountains to hike, golden beaches to explore, and metropolitan cities to discover, not to mention very diverse weather, this is why knowing what to pack for Vietnam ensures you are ready for any kind of adventure.

You should also look at items you can buy when you arrive in Vietnam to save space, such as toiletries. In this way, you would have plenty of room for unique souvenirs from Vietnam .

Language and currency

Vietnamese is the primary language in Vietnam, but English is quite common too . If you speak French or Mandarin, you might notice some similarities in pronunciation or words.

A lot of Vietnamese don’t speak English. However, many young people do, and the locals who work in the tourism industry do speak very good English. Vietnam has welcomed many English teachers in the past 20 years and aims to have the majority of its citizens be able to speak fluent English in the future.

I recommend you download a translation app for Vietnamese that you can use even when offline.

The currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong or VND. US$1 is around 23,000 VND . Most ATMs have a limit of 5 Million VND ($220) withdrawal limit. But if you go to VP Bank ATM and some HSBC ATM, you might be able to get up to 10 Million VND ($440).

Hotels and tour agencies accept payments in local currency and major currencies such as USD, CAD, AUD, EURO, SGD, and even KRW and JP¥. Most hotel and tour agencies will be happy to exchange your international currencies for VND as well, or you can go to a bank or gold shop for currency exchange.

Package tours

For people who prefer to book a package tour and not get stressed out in planning, creating itineraries, and booking, these tours are great. The package includes accommodation, tours, food, transportation, and even porters.

Many of these tours are not for 20 days, though. However, that could also be good if you want to have some days on your own and plan to see specific places.

Other basic travel tools

Below is a compilation of travel websites and services I use to book my travel arrangements, from accommodations, flights, and even buying travel insurance. If you plan to visit Vietnam between the end of January and the beginning of March, you definitely have to book things in advance.

This is because the TET holiday (Lunar New Year) will fall around those dates, and everything will be booked up 1-2 months before.

PLACES TO SEE IN VIETNAM (with pinned map)

Click the top-right icon to enlarge the map. Credit: Map Data: Google

3 WEEKS IN VIETNAM ITINERARIES

Here is my recommended three 3-week Vietnam itinerary; you can either do the entire Vietnam, north and central only, central and south only or north and south only.

TIP : You can do this 3 weeks Vietnam itinerary and vice versa, you can either start in the North, South or even the Central of Vietnam. You can also combine Vietnam and Cambodia for a 3-week trip .

Entirety of Vietnam

• Day 1-3 : Arrive in Hanoi city, Perfume Pagoda, Ninh Binh, and Trang An – sleep in Hanoi
• Day 3-5 : Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island (doesn’t have to be both) – sleep in Halong Bay or Cat Ba
• Day 5 : Overnight train or bus to Sa Pa ( check schedule/price )
• Day 6-8 : Sa Pa and Fansipan (doesn’t have to be both) – sleep in Sa Pa
• Day 8 : Travel down to Hanoi then to Phong Nha (Dong Hoi) – overnight bus or train
• Day 9-11 : Phong Nha – sleep in Phong Nha / Dong Hoi
• Day 11-14 : Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An – best to sleep in Da Nang which is between the two other towns (1-2 hours drive to either place), you can take the train for 6 hr and 30 min
• Day 14-17 : Nha Trang, Da Lat, Mui Ne – you should just choose one or two – f ly from Da Nang to Nha Trang or Da Lat or take the 11-hour bus
• Day 17-21 : Ho Chi Minh City and Mekong Delta – adjust your itinerary if you want to visit Phu Quoc, you can fly from either Nha Trang or Dalat to Ho Chi Minh City and take a train from Mui Ne (Phan Thiet) to Ho Chi Minh City

North to Central Vietnam for 3 weeks

• Day 1-4 : Arrive in Hanoi City, Perfume Pagoda, Ninh Binh, Trang Ang, Mai Chau, sleep in Hanoi
• Day 4-7 : Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island – sleep in Halong Bay
• Day 7 : Overnight train or bus from Hanoi to Sa Pa
• Day 7-10 : Sa Pa and Fansipan hike
• Day 10 : take a train from Sa Pa to Phong Nha – check the schedule and price
• Day 11-14 : Phong Nga, cave exploration
• Day 14 : take a bus to Hue
• Day 14-17 : Hue, Thien Mu Pagoda, and DMZ
• Day 17 : take a bus to Da Nang from Hue
• Day 17-21 : Da Nang and Hoi An

Central to South Vietnam for 3 weeks

• Day 1-5 : Da Nang, Hue, and Hoi An – fly into Da Nang
• Day 5-7 : Phong Nga, cave exploring – fly from Da Nang to Nha Trang or take a very long bus or train journey
• Day 7-9 : Nha Trang – snorkelling and diving – you can skip this if you don’t feel like doing these activities – if you do, you can take a minibus for 3 hours
• Day 9-11 : Da Lat city
• Day 11-13 : Mui Ne – you can take a 4-hour minibus from Dalat to Mui Ne
• Day 13-17 : Ho Chi Minh City and Mekong Delta, there’s a sleeper bus between Mui Ne and HCMC (it takes 4 hours)
• Day 17-19 : Cat Thien National Park
• Day 19-21 : Phu Quoc

North and South Vietnam for 3 weeks

• Day 1-5 : Hanoi city, Perfume Pagoda, Ninh Binh, Trang An – fly into Hanoi
• Day 5-8 : Sa Pa and Fansipan hiking trip
• Day 8 : Overnight train or bus from Hanoi to Sa Pa
• Day 9-11: Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island (island hopping, cruise, and water activities), best if you book a tour with a transport service
• Day 11 : Fly from Hanoi or Hai Phong to Ho Chi Minh City – check the flight prices
• Day 11-16 : Ho Chi Minh City and Mekong Delta
• Day 16-18 : Cat Thien National Park
• Day 19 : Travel to Phu Quoc Island from Cat Thien (by air through Ho Chi Minh City)
• Day 19-21 : Phu Quoc Island – there’s an international airport in Phu Quoc

THINGS TO DO IN VIETNAM (by city)

Vietnam will spoil you with options for where and what to do. Each destination has something unique to offer, so it is essential to visit as many cities or towns as you can squeeze into the three weeks. It is vital to know more about each destination to help you build the perfect itinerary. 

You can’t visit Vietnam without going to Hanoi. This city is known for its narrow yet bustling streets. Apart from being an old city, Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam. It is well-preserved, and some consider it the cultural centre of Vietnam.

If you have been to other cities in Vietnam, such as Ho Chi Minh, you will see that the vibe here is entirely different. You will have the chance to stroll through the city and discover a lake and park right at the heart of it all.

• Location : in the north of Vietnam, the closest big city that borders China
• Getting there : Hanoi being the capital receives many flights from Asia, Europe, and even North America
• How long to stay : 3-4 days
• Must-do : book an airport pick-up (there are taxi scams around the airport)

Top attractions

• One Pillar Pagoda
• Temple of the Jade Mountain
• Hoa Lo Prison Memorial – you can visit all must-sees in Hanoi by booking a city tour or a jeep tour
• Tran Quoc Pagoda
• Hanoi Opera House
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre – check the tour price
• Ngoc Son Temple
• Temple Of Literature
• Day trip to Tam Coc, Hoa Lu, and Mua Caves
• Walk around the Old Quarter and sit for a Bia Hoi
• Day trip cruise to Halong Bay – you should also consider at least 1 night in Halong Bay
• Watch the sunset at Hoan Kiem Lake
• Join a food tour or Vietnamese cooking class
• You can also visit Sapa from Hanoi but must stay for at least 1 night – check the price

Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam’s most visited tourist attractions. It could very well be the top attraction in the entire country.

There is one major reason tourists love it–the views of Ha Long Bay are breathtaking. The region comprises 2,000 islets or limestone rock formations that can be seen during your cruise. Many tourists to Halong Bay spend more than a day in the area to make the most of this site. 

You can enjoy island hopping, cave exploring, and water activities (kayaking and fishing) in this area. The best way to explore the region is through a cruise.

• Location : It is a bay within the Quang Ninh Province in Vietnam, east of Hanoi
• Getting there : Take the bus from Hanoi to Halong city or Hai Phong (approximately three and a half hours). Once there, take the boat at the ferry pier towards Koh Gadbah Island
• Top attractions to see: Bai Tu Long Bay, Poem Mountain, Ba Trai Dao
• How long to stay : 2-3 days

Sa Pa and Fansipan

Sa Pa is known for its rice paddies and very warm Vietnamese tribes who are native to this region. Visitors come here to explore the rice paddies and learn about different ethnic groups in Vietnam by staying at a local’s house overnight and hiking for days.

Fansipan is the highest point in Indochina. Many travellers would hike to Fansipan, which takes 2-3 days. The hike requires you to be physically fit.

Not long ago, Vietnam introduced an easy way to get to the peak of Fansipan through a cable car ride. Many older people and travellers who have small children or are not physically fit to hike for days can take a cable car for a fee.

• Location : north of Hanoi, located in the town called Lao Cai
• Getting there : you can either take a bus, train, or private car or van from Hanoi to SaPa

Phong Nha or Dong Hoi

This central part of Vietnam is known as the cave capital. Many beautiful caves in Vietnam can be found here, including the biggest cave in the world called Hang Sơn Đoòng Cave , which is very pricey to visit the tickets are often sold out. So, if you want to visit this cave, plan this in advance.

• Getting there: Take an overnight bus or train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi or motorbike, bus or motorbike from Da Nang or Hue
• Top attractions to see : Hang Sơn Đoòng Cave, Paradise Cave
• How long to stay: 2-3 days

Known as the food capital of Vietnam and the gateway to the central of Vietnam . Hue is popular as the origin of many delicious and famous Vietnamese food. It is also the home of the biggest DMZ field that served during the Vietnam War in the 1970s.

To understand more about the history and culture of Vietnam, Hue is an excellent spot as it is one of the oldest cities, it’s where you will find the Imperial City is located.

• Location : it is 600 km south of Hanoi and 102 km from Da Nang City, where the nearest international airport is located
• Getting there: Take the bus or train from Dong Hoi to Hue (travel time: 3 hours). From Da Nang to Hue by bus or train , the travel time is also about 3 hours.
• How long to stay : 1-2 days
• Imperial City – join a city tour that highlights Hue’s attractions or a city tour with a dragon boat cruise
• Pottery Class
• DMZ – book a guided tour
• Tam Giang Lagoon
• Cooking Class – join a street food tour or an authentic Vietnamese cooking class
• Perfume River
• Hai Van Pass – check the tour cost
• Thien Mu Pagoda
• day trip to Da Nang – Golden Bridge and Marble Mountains

Da Nang is one destination in Vietnam that has recently risen to fame, thanks to it being known as where the north of Vietnam meets the south. Many travellers think it’s the place where you can feel the warm culture of the north and the vibrant and active atmosphere of the south.

As the fifth-largest city in the country, it is conveniently located between Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi , which also has an international airport that caters to domestic and international flights. Read this is Da Nang safe guide if you’re curious about it and want tips on how to stay safe.

This is a great place to start your trip or end one, depending on your time.

• Location: It is located along the coast of the South China Sea and at the mouth of the Han River
• Getting there: You can fly into Da Nang International Airport by bus or motorbike or taxi from Hue (2-3 hours) and by bus or taxi from Hoi An (1 hour)
• The Marble Mountains – explore together with Son Tra Peninsula
• My Son Sanctuary – check the guided tour itinerary
• Han River Bridge (ầu Sông Hàn)
• My Khe Beach
• Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge – book a tour with a buffet lunch
• Cham Islands
• Join a combo tour of Lady Buddha, Monkey Mountain, and Am Phu Cave
• Book a street food walking tour
• TIP: You can explore both Da Nang and Hoi An in one day

3 weeks in Vietnam must include Hoi An or the Ancient City of Hoi An. It is emerging as one of the favourite destinations for tourists who come to Vietnam. It is hard to blame them since Hoi An is a charming, well-preserved town.

Going there would make you feel like you are stepping back in time. The atmosphere is indescribable, as it is one of the best cultural destinations in the country. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The paper-lantern hanging around everywhere, especially in the Old Town will make you feel like you are in old-time Vietnam. Not to mention it’s filled with locals cycling around the city and lots of walking paths.

This town is also known as the silk city and tailoring capital, many visitors of Vietnam would go to Hoi An simply to buy silk or have dresses, bags, shoes, suits, and swimsuits customised for a very affordable price with high quality.

• Location : It is located on the central coast of Vietnam within the province of Quang Nam
• Getting there : bus or private car or motorbike from Da Nang (1 hour)
• Japanese Covered Bridge
• An Bang Beach
• Hoi An Market – book a package tour for a traditional basket boat ride, market tour, and cooking class
• Hoi An Ancient Town
• My Son Sanctuary – check the tour price
• Phung Hung House
• Join a Hoi An lantern-making class
• Do a night food tour or cooking class
• Explore the country-side through a bike tour

This city in Vietnam is known for having a lot of Russian tourists. When you come here, you will see how many stores, restaurants, hotels, and locals speak Russian and Russians work here.

This is a great place to relax, lie on the beach, go snorkelling or diving, and explore the amusement park called Vinpearl Land. This part of Vietnam is a little more expensive than the rest. Regardless, this town is a great place to party on the beach and enjoy a lazy holiday.

• Location : It is located in the province of Khanh Hoa, on the coast of the South China Sea
• Getting there : bus or motorbike or train or flight from anywhere in Vietnam or flight from other Southeast Asian countries
• Visit Nha Trang’s popular sites on a guided tour
• Vinpearl Land
• Hon Mot and Hon Mun – for diving and snorkelling spots – check tour options
• Ponagar Tower – explore Nha Trang on a bike
• Relax at Bãi biển
• Day trip to Ba Ho Waterfalls – join an affordable tour
• Hon Tam Island – book a speedboat and mud bath trip
• Book a Vietnamese cooking class
• Day trip to Hon Ba Waterfall and BBQ
• Day trip to Dalat from Nha Trang

Dalat or also known as the Flower City, is a city located on top of a mountain in the province of Lam Dong. This is a popular destination for locals for its amazing cold weather. In the past, many Emperors and French officials would come to Dalat during summer to cool off (between 12C-24C all year round).

This region is also famous for rafting, water-repelling, and visiting many fantastic waterfalls. If you are a coffee lover, Dalat is the place for you – most coffee in Vietnam comes from this city.

• Location: Lam Dong Province, 130 km west of Nha Trang
• Getting there : you can fly here from domestic airports or take the bus or private car, or motorbike from Nha Trang (3-4 hours)

Top attractions:

• Pongor Waterfalls
• Elephant Waterfalls
• Xuan Huong Lake
• Tuyen Lam Lake
• Crazy House
• Explore Dalat on a package tour

If you want to spend more time in a quiet beach town, Mui Ne is for you. This place is teeming with hotels and luxury resorts that provide quick access to the beach.

It is the perfect choice for travellers who want a quiet escape as it is not as visited as other destinations in Vietnam. It is also a famous destination for avid kite surfers.

• Location : It is located in the south-central area of Binh Thuan province. 
• Getting there : You can take the bus from Dalat to Mui Ne , which will take about 4 hours, alternatively, you can take a bus from Ho Chi Minh City , a train ride is also an option, but the train will arrive in Phan Thiet which is 10 km from Mui Ne, about a20-minute drive
• How long to stay : 2 Days
• Fairy Stream – explore Mui Ne on a self-guided motorbike tour
• Mr Dia Rock
• Red and White Sand Dunes – j oin a guided tour for a sunrise trip
• Thap Po Sah Inu (Cham Towers)
• Learn how to sail – check the tour price
• Fishing Village
• Join a local food tour

Cat Tien National Park

A quiet national park just 2 hours from Ho Chi Minh City. You can either take a private tour from Saigon or a motorbike to reach Cat Tien. A perfect place to escape the bustling city and get away from the very busy metropolitan of Ho Chi Minh City, which is only 2 hours away.

You can reach Cat Tien National Park by booking a tour or driving a motorbike yourself. You can stay at Green Hope Lodge or Green Bamboo Lodge

Ho Chi Minh City

Having three weeks in Vietnam means you can see both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, As the biggest city in Vietnam, you simply cannot skip a visit to Ho Chi Minh City or also known as Saigon.

Formerly known as Saigon, it has plenty to offer tourists as this is the largest city in the country. It has an electric pace with a business vibe.

The nightlife in Ho Chi Minh is particularly vibrant. The best part is that there are many notable tourist attractions to visit as well. From here, you can also join a day trip to the famous Mekong Delta.

• Location : It is located in southeastern Vietnam and near the Saigon River.
• Getting there : To get to Ho Chi Minh City, you must book a flight via Tan Son Nhat Airport. It is the busiest international airport in Vietnam, with daily international flights from Asia, North America, and Europe
• Top attractions to see : Independence Palace, Cu Chi Tunnels, Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, Saigon Central Post Office, Mekong Delta
• How long to stay : 2-4 days
• See top sites on a motorbike (with or without a driver) – check price
• War Remnants Museum
• Wal along Lê Lợi Street
• Cu Chi Tunnels – book a guided tour or combine with a Mekong Delta trip or shooting range with a Mekong Delta day tour
• Hồ Chí Minh City Museum
• Ba Thien Hau Temple
• Join a street food tour or a night food tour or cooking class
• Bitexco Tower
• Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon,
• Independence Palace
• Sai Gon Central Post Office
• Day trip to Mekong Delta and Vinh Trang Pagoda
• South Vietnamese Women’s Museum
• Cai Rang Floating Market – book a guided tour
• Ben Thanh Market
• Saigon Waterbus Station

For a great beach experience, I highly recommend Phu Quoc, an island south of Ho Chi Minh. If you look at the map, you’ll say that it’s part of Cambodia, which it was until the 1970s when Cambodia gave it to Vietnam or Vietnam took it from Cambodia.

Regardless, Phu Quoc is a popular destination both for locals and foreign tourists. You can reach this island by ferry or a domestic flight. 

• How many days to say : 2-3 days
• How to get there : Phu Quoc Island has an international airport, and you can also take a ferry from Bai Vong Port near Duong Dong
• Starfish Beach – book with kayak and north of the island trip
• Phu Quoc Prison – discover the south of the island with cable car ride
• Sunworld Waterpark/Aquatopia
• Phu Quoc Beach – book a sunset cruise with squid fishing
• Su Muon Pagoda
• Phu Quoc Cable Car
• Ông Lang beach
• VinWonders Waterpark
• Phu Quoc National Park
• Hòn Thơm Island
• Day trip to 3 islands for snorkelling or a 4 island tour with a speedboat

ACCOMMODATIONS IN VIETNAM (by city)

• Affordable: Hanoi City Backpackers Hostel or Classic Street Hotel or Golden Sun Hotel
• Mid-range: Oriana Boutique Hotels & Restaurant or La Passion Hotel and Spa or San Palace Hotel
• Luxury: Babylon Premium Hotel & Spa or Acoustic Hotel & Spa or Peridot Grand Luxury
• Affordable: The Like Hostel or The White House
• Mid-range: Maison Royal or Fusion Suites or The Akoya Hotel
• Luxury: Amanaki Boutique Hotel or La Siesta Premium or The Myst Dong Khoi

Halong Bay/Cat Ba

• Boutique Hotel and Spa or Eco Hills Homestay or Diamond Luxury Hotel or Galaxy Cat Ba
• Affordable: Benzen Boutique or Seahorse Signature or Sapphire Boutique Hotel
• Mid-range: White Sand Hotel and Apartment or Grand Sunrise Boutique Hotel
• Luxury: The Glomad Hotel or Haian Riverfront
• Affordable: Bed Station Hostel Poolbar or Back Home Hostel or Heliport Hostel
• Mid-range: La An Central Boutique Villa or Rock Mouse Villa or Hoi An Central Hotel
• Luxury: Cozy Savvy Boutique Hotel or Nge Prana Villa & Spa or Hoi An Odyssey Hotel & Spa
• Affordable: Stop and Go Boutique Homestay or Sunny A Hotel
• Mid-range: Hue Serene Palace or Hue Sweethouse Hotel or Jade Scene Hotel
• Luxury: Vinpearl Hotel or White Lotus Hotel or Spatel d’Annam
• Affordable: The Alley Hostel or Bondi Backpackers or Mojzo Inn Hotel
• Mid-range: DTX Hotel or Regalia Nha Trang or Aaron Hotel or Azura Gold Hotel
• Luxury: Panorama Star Beach or Panorama Lyn Beachfront Apartment or Melia Vinpearl Resort
• Affordable: Vuon Xuan Hotel or The Morris Hotel or Mr Peace Backpackers or Pi Hostel
• Mid-range: Raon Villa or Dalat Wind Hotel or Bazan Hotel or Feliz Homestay
• Luxury: Golf Valley Hotel or TTR Central Aparthotel
• Affordable: iHome Backpackers Hotel or Eva Hut Hostel
• Mid-range: Serenity by Sea or Gia An Hung Guesthouse or Mi Nhon Hotel Mui Ne
• Luxury: Hoang Ngoc Beach Resort or Muine Bay Resort
• Affordable: Chillout Hostel/Vibe House or Fine9 Hostel
• Mid-range: Coral Bay Resort or Mai Phuong Resort or Old Town Resort
• Luxury: Melia Vinpearl or Camia Resort and Spa or Mango Bay Resort
• Affordable: Flaco Hostel or Mega View Homestay or Surelee Homestay
• Mid-range: SaPa Retreat Condotel or SaPa Pinehill Lodge or Sapa Relax Hotel & Spa
• Luxury: Pao’s Leisure Hotel or Laxsik Ecolodge

WHAT TO EAT IN VIETNAM

3 weeks in Vietnam is not complete without doing a tour to discover its cuisine. Vietnamese food is one of the most popular cuisines in the world. It is known to be robust in flavour while being healthy, too.

It is characterised by its combination of fresh herbs and various types of meat, such as beef and seafood. Rice, like most other Southeast Asian countries, is also a staple in Vietnam.

Many fine dining restaurants are in major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. On the other hand, street food is an integral part of the country’s culinary landscape. 

Vietnamese pho is probably the single most popular dish in the country’s cuisine. This signature food comprises rice noodles in a flavorful soup with meat (typically beef) and topped with bean sprouts, fresh basil or mint, and lime wedges.

Pho is often served with a side of chilli sauce or fermented fish. This dish can be eaten at any time of the year, but mostly for breakfast. 

• Where to try: Pho Gia Truyen in Hanoi, Pho Quynh in Ho Chi Minh City 
• How much does it cost: $1

Banh Mi is a famous dish in Vietnam with some influences from French cuisine. It is perfect for anyone looking for a quick meal that they can enjoy on the go. This dish is made with a toasted baguette and filled with pickled vegetables, paste, soy sauce, butter, meat, and cilantro.

When it comes to the type of meat used as a filling, there are various options. Some of these include fried eggs, roasted pork belly, poached chicken, and grilled pork loin. 

• Where to try: Phi Banh Mi, Madam Khanh
• How much does it cost: $.60

Vietnamese Spring Rolls

Goi Cuon, or Vietnamese spring rolls, is another must-try dish. It consists of a roll filled with vermicelli rice noodles, shrimp, pork slices, lettuce, and fresh basil.

These ingredients are wrapped tightly into translucent rice paper. The spring rolls have a subtle yet sublime flavour, so these are typically served with a hoisin-based dipping sauce. 

• Where to try: Tan Dinh Market, Ba Chieu Market

You cannot travel to Vietnam without trying the world-famous Vietnamese egg coffee. It might sound weird initially, but those who’ve tried it can attest that it is good.

This coffee is made with egg yolks, condensed milk, and sugar. This is a decadent beverage that is thick enough inconsistently that you can drink it with a spoon.

• Where to try: Café Giang in Hanoi
• How much does it cost: $0.65-$1.30

SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS IN VIETNAM

Vietnam is a travel destination characterised by diversity, culture, and a sense of adventure. Whether you are looking for good food, natural beauty, or a stroll down history, you can find that at nearly every corner. 

I hope that this 3 weeks in Vietnam itinerary has helped you shape your own route. Whether you’re motorbiking around Vietnam, going on a backpacking experience, or celebrating the honeymoon with your significant other – Vietnam is definitely a great choice.

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A Two Week Vietnam Itinerary: A Complete First-Timer’s Guide

last Updated: September 25, 2022 hanoi itinerary vietnam

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Interested in planning a fantastic 2 weeks in Vietnam?! Well, you’re in luck, because this Vietnam itinerary will surely help big time! From towering pagodas and bowls of pho and bun cha, to limestone islands and terraced rice paddies, any visit to Vietnam will leave you wanting more.

Hey everyone! I’m Jackie.  I’m a wannabe full-time traveler, but yes, I’ve got bills to pay so I work for a living and travel as a hobby just like Jessica .  Having just returned from an amazing 2 weeks in Vietnam, I’d love to gush about it and encourage you all to go!  And if you’ve landed on this page with tickets already booked looking for itinerary help, I’ve got you covered.

Is Vietnam at the tippy top of your long travel bucket list ?  Yea, I didn’t think so, as Vietnam wasn’t at the top of mine either.  All that changed when I saw an Anthony Bourdain episode about the country and was instantly HOOKED! He actually had dinner with Obama in a little café in Hanoi – so come on, honestly, what’s cooler than that? (Sidenote: nothing. 😉 )

Things to Know Before You Go to Vietnam

You’ll need a visa.

If you’re an American like me hoping to spend two weeks in Vietnam (or any other timeframe for that matter)– here’s something important to know – YOU WILL NEED A VISA .  There’s no way around it, and thankfully, it’s pretty simple and quick to get.  

Unfortunately (of course), the fees have just been raised this past August, so make sure you check the current price before applying.  The visa gives you a year’s worth of multiple entries in & out of Vietnam, so if you’re thinking of heading back, it’s definitely worth it, although you’ll need it no matter how long or short you stay in the country for.  There’s no way around it, so I suggest you get your visa way early in case there are unforeseen delays.

Once you have your visa (which will be glued/stuck inside your passport), that is the only thing you need to arrange beforehand to avoid any problems entering the country.

A few ways to go about this:

1) Vietnamese Consulate or Embassy in the States:

• No extra fees, thankfully!  Here’s the exact wording from the Vietnamese Consulate in San Francisco (just an example): “A VISA to Vietnam can be applied for by mail or in person at the Consulate General of Vietnam in San Francisco as early as 6 months prior to the date of travel. The application does not necessarily need to be at the Consulate in person.  Processing time takes up to 3 working days.”

2) Online Companies:

• Any outside company will probably a charge a service fee on top of the actual visa fee
• We did ours through ‘Its Easy Passport & Visa’ in New York City and it was great. This particular company has offices all around the country and an online chat in order to check on the status of the visa. Ours took literally 4 days but I cannot say whether that is the norm, so make sure you leave ample amount of time to get that sacred piece of paper, aka the Vietnam visa.

3) Visa On Arrival (VOA):

• A VOA is a letter you get that gives you pre-approval to get a visa, which you then you fill out the remaining paperwork in Vietnam and get the visa at the airport. I don’t recommend this option as already having your visa will minimize your time at Passport Control in Vietnam (and who wants to spend extra time waiting around, not this girl!)
• It’s important to note that some of the VOA companies are scams, so make sure you are using a reputable company if you do decide to go this route.

The Perfect 2 Weeks in Vietnam Itinerary

A Quick Summary of this Vietnam itinerary:  Hanoi (3 days) — Ha Long Bay (3 days) — Sapa (3 days) — Hoi An (3 days) — Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta (2 days)

Days 1-3: Hanoi

We started off our two weeks in Vietnam in Hanoi, where we flew in to from New York.  We spent 3 days on our Vietnam itinerary exploring the city, which we shortly learned was exceptionally diverse and just tons of fun!

Top things to do in Hanoi

‘Beer Corner’ : You guessed it, Beer Corner is just that- a street full of bars, alluring your liver inside for some delicious imbibing.

West Lake : If you get out of the city center a bit, you’ll find West Lake, a gorgeous lake with a beautiful pagoda and temple that is definitely a worth a check-out. It’s walkable from the city center, being approximately only 15 or 20 minutes.

All the Spas and Massages! Definitely take advantage of spas and massages during your 2 weeks in Vietnam, as amazing treatments can be found very cheaply. We got mud wraps that cost $12 each!  Unheard of in the states!  Any kind of spa treatment you want will probably be about 3/4 the price of what you would pay to get it back at home. The particular spa we went to was called Midori Spa on Ngo Huyen in the backpackers district.

This particular spa participates in a program where all their masseuses are blind. It is part of a larger Vietnam initiative to ensure blind people are able to generate incomes that allow them independence. This spa was amazing and the initiative helping blind people was largely part of the reason we chose them over other spas in the area.

There are tons of spas though, so if that’s something you’re interested in, the demand is definitely there & they do an amazing job.

Recommended Hanoi Activities:

• Full Day Hoa Lu + Tam Coc Tour (Day Trip)
• Hanoi Food on Foot: Walking Tour of Old Quarter
• Day Trip to Perfume Pagoda
• Hanoi Full Day Guided Tour

FOODIES, REJOICE! The array of food choices in Hanoi will not disappoint, I can promise you that!  Admittedly, my boyfriend had quite a large list of foods he wanted to eat prior to our arrival, so we ran around the city checking off all the foods as we ate them. [Editors Note: my kinda people!]  

Food is incredibly plentiful across the city. People will run makeshift cafes on the sidewalks and set up little plastic tables & chairs for you to sit down and enjoy.  A warm delicious bowl of Pho from a street stall will run you about 20,000-25,000 VND, which is a little less than an American dollar. Everything is warm and tasty so make sure you take advantage of the variety of foods, including:

• BUN CHA: Make sure to try Bun Cha, one of our favorites from our time in Hanoi. Bun Cha is served with grilled fatty pork over a plate of white rice noodles and herbs with a side of dipping sauce.  It’s not too common to find this dish outside of Hanoi, so be sure to enjoy a few plates while in the city.

• STREET FOOD: Some words of caution– while eating from street stalls is generally safe, a few ways to ensure you are eating from a good place is a) it is busy with locals [as locals know the places in the area that are safe to eat, and most tourists do not] and b) that the soup is served boiling hot. Boiling soup will ensure most kinds of bacteria or any cross-contamination has been killed off. Not trying the street food would be a crime as the plates are absolutely delicious (!!!), just take caution about where and what you eat.

Crossing the streets in Hanoi is like a real life game of Frogger.   No joke.  Don’t let it deter you from visiting the city, just ensure that you use caution when crossing the streets. Here are some tips to make it across safely:

• Be relaxed and self-confident
• Look both ways & maintain eye contact with the drivers
• Walk slowly but keep the same pace throughout your crossing
• Once you have started crossing, continue your crossing. Don’t stop or step back.

Thankfully, most of the drivers will slow down or drive around you, however, caution should always be used when crossing any street – you don’t want to get run over!  The majority of drivers throughout Hanoi (and actually most of Vietnam) use motorbikes.  There are stop lights but drivers do not always obey the traffic laws.

We pretty much ate our way through 3 days in Hanoi.  Realistically, Hanoi can be done in about 2 days. 3 days is certainly plenty but 2 days is perfect to still see and do everything you might want to do and eat your heart out as well.

Where we stayed: Old Quarter Homestay  (approx. $43/night)

Other Recommended Accommodations:

• Luxury Accommodation: Hotel Nikko Hanoi  (approx. $92/night) //  Hanoi La Siesta Diamond Hotel  (approx. $107/night)
• Mid-Class Accommodation:   Oriental Central Hotel (approx. $37/night)
• Budget Accommodation: Hanoi Asia Guest House (approx. $13/night)

More Hotels in Hanoi Here.

Days 4 – 6: Ha Long Bay

After a few days of city life (and oh so much eating), head on over to Ha Long Bay, complete with emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands.  (Do a quick Google Search , and you’ll see what all the fuss is about). 

Beautiful doesn’t even begin to describe this place; it’s even considered to be one of the new ‘7 natural wonders of the world’ as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  The absolute best way to see this natural phenomenon is by boat, and thankfully there are quite a few different options depending on your preference.

We chose to tour with Vietnam Backpackers Hostel, specifically the ‘Castaway & Ha Long Bay 3 day/2 night package’.  For those who might be interested in this tour, a bit of information: it is basically 2 half-days partying on the island (yes, of course it’s beautiful) – laying on the beach, kayaking, beach volleyball, hanging out with other travelers AND 1 full day cruising around the bay.  

For the most part, I enjoyed this tour, but there were a few setbacks.  The accommodations on this tour were pretty bare, and although we knew about this beforehand, it took some getting used to — no Wi-Fi, limited electricity, and limited hot water.  It was definitely doable, but don’t expect luxury by any means. 

In addition, it appeared as this tour catered for those in the younger crowd (18-mid 20s). Being in our early-mid 30’s, we were two of the oldest members on the cruise.  This was not necessarily a negative perhaps, but we definitely felt our age!  We did, however, get a lot of recommendations from the others on our tour and traveled to an additional destination because of their expertise.

If partying isn’t your thing (or you want a bit more luxury), there are so many different tour options and cruise companies to ensure you get to see the beauty of the bay!  A bit of research and you’ll easily find a travel experience you’re seeking – there are a ridiculous number of options.

Regardless of what tour you choose, Ha Long Bay is beautiful & should definitely not be missed.  Make sure to take a decent camera to photograph this spectacular scatter of islands!  You can even take a day trip from Hanoi, although I recommend spending a bit more time there for the full experience.

Recommended Ha Long Bay Tours:

• Three Day Ha Long Bay Cruise (with transfers from Hanoi)
• Ha Long Bay and Monkey Island 3-Day Tour from Hanoi
• Two Day Tour of Ha Long Bay + Tuan Chau Theme Park
• LUXURY Two Day Cruise on Ha Long Bay
• Ha Long Bay Full Day from Hanoi with Kayaking and Lunch

Where we stayed: Castaway Island (part of our tour)

• Luxury Accommodation: Royal Lotus Halong Bay (approx. $90/night)
• Budget Accommodation:  Saigon Halong Hotel (approx. $33/night)

Find More Hotels in Halong Here.

Days 7-9: Sapa

After being dazzled by Ha Long Bay, head back to Hanoi to catch an overnight train to Sapa, a destination definitely worth the long trek!

Located up north by the border of China, the town is extremely picturesque and terrace rice paddies graze the landscape.  Swoon!  It really is that fantastic… once you get there!

How to Get to Sapa : Flying into Sapa is not available, but thankfully, both options are quite easy.  You can choose to either take an overnight train or an overnight bus, although I suggest a train as it’s faster (8 hours or so) and apparently safer (says Lonely Planet).

We booked a soft-sleeper berth on the Violette Train, run by VNR (Vietnam National Railways). The berths are bunk-bed style, two sets in each cabin, meaning you will be sharing the sleeping cabin with other people/another couple.  If you aren’t comfortable with those arrangements, there are other sleeping options available. 

You may be wondering about the comfort level of the beds on the train… and thankfully we both got a good night’s sleep despite the fact that the train moves and stops frequently throughout the night!

The train ride to Sapa is about 8-9 hours, and drops you off in a town called Lao Cai.  You will then proceed to transfer to Sapa via bus, which takes roughly 30 minutes. Note that the overnight bus mentioned above goes directly from Hanoi to Sapa, although I cannot comment on the sleeping conditions nor the overall experience.

Where to Stay in Sapa : Definitely go for a home-stay if you’re looking for an authentic Vietnamese cultural experience.  You basically stay in a local family home, eat meals with them, and learn about their everyday life. 

We booked in a village outside of Sapa called Ta Phin, and stayed with a lady named May Kieu and her family, who are part of the Red Dao Hilltribe. Ta Phin is home to 6 different hilltribes and approximately 3,000 people.

We found May through a recommendation from another travel blog, and thankfully booking was easy as she has an English-speaker do all of her reservations.  More information on home-stays in Ta Phin with May can be found here.

May’s home-stay had electricity and modern bathrooms with a hot shower and running water; however, there was no stove, TV, or even couches to sit on.  All hot meals were cooked over fireplace and the furniture was rather basic, with just a wooden table and some chairs. The homes are made of wood and have concrete floors.  

Her beautiful children made up for the lack of all material things.  May and her family were so gracious and she had a lovely home. She and her husband Lua cooked delicious meals for us, accompanied by a delicious homemade Rice Whiskey.

If May’s home-stay is unavailable or you’d like other options, don’t fret, as there are dozens of others.  You don’t even need to book anything ahead of time!  Once you arrive in Sapa, there will be tribe ladies waiting for you asking if you’d like to stay in their homes.   

If you’d prefer to arrange a home-stay ahead of time, an agency is your best bet for bookings.  Most of the tribespeople don’t have internet, and is therefore difficult and sometimes even impossible to book directly through them.   Note that the homes are primarily extremely basic, some even without electricity or hot water, but you’ll hopefully know beforehand. 🙂

• Read Next: The Perfect Sapa Itinerary (plus tons of extra tips)

A Must-Do in Sapa : The herbal bath!  May even took us into the fields and rice paddies to gather our own fresh herbs for the bath!  What an exhilarating experience venturing out with our wicker basket backpacks and pulling the herbs off the trees and ground.  

Once back from the fields, the herbs are then cooked and placed into hot water in a bucket that you sit in.  Our skin felt so nice and rejuvenated after soaking for a bit, which was more than welcome after traveling on the train for so long the day prior!

Recommended Sapa Tours (for ease)

• 2-Day Tour with Homestay in Ta Chai Village
• Sapa 4-Day/3-Night Mountain Bike Tour to Dien Bien Phu
• From Hanoi: Sapa Overnight Tribal Village Trek
• Sapa Easy Trekking Tour 2-Days 3-Nights

A few pointers about Sapa & the overall home-stay experience:

• Make sure you have VND on you (Vietnamese money). There is an entry cost to get into the villages – you must buy a ticket to be allowed into the village. They do not accept credit card.
• Most people in the villages ride motorbikes and they will likely take you back to their homestays on one, so packing light is pretty much necessary. A backpack is recommended because you will be responsible for holding onto your luggage while on the bike.  We have the Osprey Farpoint 55in packs, which also allow you to use them as carry-ons.  The 70in lets you pack more but it is too big to be carry-on luggage and would need to be checked on flights.  We love our Ospreys & they worked perfectly on the motorbikes!

Where we stayed: May Kieu Home-Stay

Other Recommended Accommodations/Hotels:

• Luxury Accommodation: Topas Ecolodge (approx. $140/night) // U Sapa (approx. $114/night)
• Budget Accommodation: Eco Palms House  (approx. $13/night) // Sapa Lodge Hotel (approx. $40/night)

Find More Hotels in Sapa Here.

Say goodbye to Sapa and the traditional homestay experience, one of the most unique experiences we had during our 2 weeks in Vietname, and head off to Hoi An!

Days 10 – 12: Hoi An

After an overnight train back to Hanoi from Sapa, off to the airport we went to catch our (very) spontaneous flight to Hoi An!

Getting to Hoi An : After recommendations from friends we met in Ha Long Bay, we decided to add Hoi An to our two weeks in Vietnam, and thankfully were able to schedule a flight and hotel the day before we intended on leaving. 

Domestic airlines are plentiful in Vietnam, with tons of flights running all day.  You’re usually guaranteed a seat even if booking last minute as the flights rarely fill up, so let your newly acquired Vietnam dreams come true!  Note that you’ll be flying into Da Nang, and taking a 30-minute cab ride to get to Hoi An, as the city has no major airport.

Some of the domestic carriers include: Vietjet, Air Asia, Vietnam Airlines, and Jetstar Pacific.  Make sure to note baggage restrictions.  We flew with Vietjet and had a decent enough experience.

What to do in Hoi An : The city consists of 2 main areas – the beach and the ancient town . The beach is about 5km (3 miles) from the ancient town so you can certainly do both in a short period of time.

(Like Hanoi, crossing streets is challenging here as well in Hoi An, but not as difficult in my opinion.)

The Ancient Town of Hoi An:

• Definitely check out the Japanese Covered Bridge and walk around the ‘Walking Street.’
• At night the streets and shops are lit up with lanterns and the streets turn into a night market, with vendors selling souvenirs, crafts and all the kinds of food you can imagine!
• There are women running boat rides around the river and selling lanterns that you can float down the river (similar to Thailand’s ‘Loy Krathong’ holiday).
• If you’re feeling adventurous, definitely rent a motorbike! This was by the far one of the coolest things we did during our 2 weeks in Vietnam. We drove to the Myson Ancient Ruins, about 40km away.

Recommended Activities and Day Trips in Hoi An:

• Vietnamese Cooking Class at Green Bamboo School
• From Hoi An: Half-Day Trip to Cham Island
• Half Day Marble Mountain + Monkey Island
• My Son Half Day Private Tour from Hoi An

Recommended Accommodations:

• Luxury Accommodation:   Anantara Hoi An Resort (approx. $180/night)
• Budget Alternative Accommodation:  Golden Bell Hoi An Boutique Villa (approx. $28/night)

Find More Hotels in Hoi An Here.

Days 13 & 14: Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta

After an amazing time in Hoi An, we flew from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City, which is also known as Saigon.

While Hanoi is more of a culture & shopping city, Ho Chi Minh has way more of a food variety and awesome nightlife! If you are getting sick of the Vietnamese food by this point like we were, HCMC is home to a wide variety of food.

We were able to get delicious pizza, Indian food, and even Tex-Mex! At night, we visited one of the many rooftop bars this city has to offer. We chose Air 360 and it was beautiful! The views of the city were incredible at night and this place provided a 360 degree view, as intended by the name of the bar.

If you like markets, check out Cho Benh Thanh. They sell everything. Seriously, EVERYTHING! (Just don’t try the Durian. Seriously. Don’t do it. You have been warned).

Our last day consisted of a tour of the Mekong Delta. We got picked up from our hotel and traveled about 3 hours for a boat ride down the Mekong and savored some tea tasting. This awesome lady rowed me down the Mekong and let me wear her extra hat!

Recommended Activities in Ho Chi Minh + Mekong Delta

• From Ho Chi Minh: Mekong Delta Small Group Tour
• Half-Day Cu Chi Tunnels Tour
• Mekong Delta Day Trip
• Saigon Street Food: 2.5 Hour Evening Tour

Where we stayed: HCMC Bali Boutique Hotel  (approx. $25/night)

• Luxury Accommodation:   Silverland Sakyo Hotel & Spa (approx. $78/night)
• Mid-Budget Accommodation:   Alagon Saigon Hotel & Spa  (approx. $50/night)

Find More Hotels in HCMC Here.

Some general information about spending 2 weeks in Vietnam:

• Most hotels will keep your passport when you check in and give it back you at the end of your stay when you check out. This is because the police run checks every night at the hotels and require all to let them know which foreigners are staying there.  It’s standard practice and not really a big deal– if you are apprehensive about leaving your passport, make a copy of it to leave with the hotel front desk instead.  We did this at all hotels during our two weeks in Vietnam and didn’t have any problems.
• Bargain! Bargain! Bargain! If there is something you want but don’t want to pay the asking price, most merchants will bargain with you. If they don’t budge, start walking away– they hate losing business!  Once they see you walk away, they are likely to come down on the price.  Most sellers would rather take less money than lose the sale completely.  We saved quite a bit of money doing this, and while spending two weeks in Vietnam, it definitely can add up!
• Bring a roll of toilet paper with you. No joke.  A lot of bathrooms throughout Vietnam do not have toilet paper in them and if you have to, urhmm, really use the bathroom, you will likely find yourself in a ‘stinky’ situation.
• Approximately 22,705 VND is equal to $1. Everything in Vietnam is super cheap and you’ll feel like a millionaire.

This country is seriously breathtaking! The people are generous and the food is oh so good. While 2 weeks in Vietnam is certainly sufficient to see the country, I wish we had more time to explore because my love affair with this beautiful nation is still brewing.  Beat the masses and get there before everyone and their mother knows about it!

Are you currently planning your Vietnam itinerary?! Think 2 weeks in Vietnam will be enough?

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March 4, 2020 at 1:41 am

Hoping to go to Vietnam for the first time Jan 2021 and this article helped loads! Particularly the links you posted. Thank you so much!

July 7, 2021 at 11:02 am

I live in Vietnam since 2008. It has been closed for tourists since March 2020, which is more then 16 months ago. Foreigners cannot legally enter the country, unless they work as experts in Vietnam. Even then, they will need 3-4 Covid-free tests, work permits, work visas and special approvals from three different governmental bodies, which usually takes 2 to 4 months to obtain. Upon arrival, everybody is transported directly to a 21-day quarantine in specially assigned hotels + 1 week of self-isolation (at their own expense). Only after that they can walk out and move around the country, which is partially in lockdown. My estimate is that Vietnam will not open its borders before mid-2022. Why is anybody publishing these out-of-date articles now, in July 2021, is beyond me.

July 14, 2021 at 12:44 pm

I wrote this post a few years ago! Will still be relevant once Vietnam opens its borders 🙂

July 13, 2021 at 1:34 am

Vietnam is beautiful and hospitable. I hope after the end of the coronavirus pandemic I will visit Ha Long Bay.

April 19, 2022 at 5:52 am

Thank you for sharing your Vietnam adventure. I’m planning to go there in the fall. Any recommendations or advice for solo travelers?

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ROOTS ABROAD

The Ultimate 3-week Vietnam Itinerary for First-Timers

Vietnam, with its vast landscapes encompassing tropical forests, limestone cliffs, and thrilling mountain roads, offers more than just natural beauty. Its cities boast rich culture, enthralling history, and, of course, the opportunity to indulge in delicious street food in one of the world’s most flavorful countries . After traversing the country for 30 days, we’re excited to share a tried-and-true itinerary for your holiday – the perfect 3-week Vietnam adventure !

Navigating such a diverse country within a limited timeframe is no small feat, but fear not! This backpacking itinerary is your compass, guiding you from North to South in three weeks. It covers must-visit places, accommodation recommendations, and transportation tips, ensuring you get the most out of each destination without feeling hurried . For those with extra time to explore, we’ve included additional destinations at the end of this 3-week Vietnam itinerary.

Without further ado, dive into the ultimate 3-week Vietnam itinerary – a thrilling blend of bustling city streets, deep historical insights, mouthwatering cuisine, and the serenity of sailing on a junk boat through one of the world’s most pristine natural wonders. This comprehensive journey allows you to savor a taste of everything Vietnam has to offer .

*  Disclosure:  This 3-Week Vietnam Itinerary post contains affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you book through our links. This is at no extra cost to you. This way you’re helping us write awesome travel guides and keep providing you with free content. We only recommend products we like and trust ourselves.

Vietnam Trip Planning Essentials

VISA | Vietnam requires a visa for citizens of certain countries. Make sure to check the visa requirements on ivisa.com for your nationality before you go.

TRAVEL INSURANCE |  Safeguard your backpacking journey through Vietnam with comprehensive coverage from  Heymondo  for trustworthy travel insurance. Get 5% OFF through our link .

CURRENCY |  The currency in Vietnam is called the Vietnamese Dong,  1 USD = 25.000 VND  at the time of writing,  check xe.com for updated exchange rates . 

SIM CARD |  Buy a SIM CARD at the airport   the moment you arrive or get an E-sim with Airalo to secure reliable internet access in advance.

GET AROUND |  For the ultimate convenience and hassle-free travel in cities, we  highly recommend the Grab App . 

HOTELS |  Browse  Booking.com  to discover budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

TOURS & ATTRACTIONS |  For booking the best & cheapest city tours and day trip excursions, check out  GetYourGuide  or  Viator .

TRANSFERS |  Ready to travel to your next destination in Vietnam? Book your bus or train tickets via  12go .

DRINKING WATER | It is recommended to drink bottled water or use filtered water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Consider bringing a  GRAYL   water purifier bottle for safe drinking water. 

Overview 3-week Vietnam Itinerary + MAPS

Vietnam ‘s vast distances mean travel between destinations can consume a significant portion of your time—plan for at least half a day to a full day for each journey. Consider this when managing your limited time for exploration. Our suggestion is to opt for a slower pace, focusing on a few destinations to immerse yourself more deeply in each place. Some travelers choose to explore only the north in 2-3 weeks, a feasible option given the region’s vastness and multitude of attractions.

Here’s our suggested itinerary which allows you to see the main highlights:

• Day 1 – Arriving in Hanoi
• Day 2 & 3 – Hanoi: Explore the Old Quarter with its colonial charm and dive into Hanoi’s coffee culture.
• Day 4 – Travel early from Hanoi to Sapa; spend the afternoon in Sapa town.
• Days 5 & 6 – Sapa: Hike the rice paddy-filled mountainous areas of Sapa.
• Day 6 – In the evening take the overnight bus from Sapa to Ha Long Bay.
• Days 7 to 9 – Ha Long Bay: Embark on a cruise through this natural wonder.
• Day 9 – After ending your cruise, take a minivan in the afternoon to Ninh Binh.
• Days 10 to 12 – Ninh Binh & Tam Coc: Discover temples while biking through rice fields surrounded by limestone mountains.
• Day 12 – In the evening take the overnight train from Ninh Binh To Hue.
• Days 13 to 14 – Hue: Immerse yourself in the Imperial City and ancient tombs.
• Day 15 – Easy Rider Day Trip: Experience the Hai Van Pass & Da Nang.
• Days 16 to 18 – Hoi An: Delve into shopping, explore the Old Town, and witness the charm of lantern-lit evenings.
• Day 19 – Fly to Saigon.
• Days 19 to 21 – Ho Chi Minh: Visit the War Museum, and take a day trip to the Mekong & Cu Chi tunnels
• Day 21 – Fly home.

Where to start your Vietnam Itinerary: North or South?

When encountering fellow backpackers in Vietnam, a common question is, “Are you headed north or south?” Given the country’s elongated shape, the logical choice is to journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) or vice versa.

Contemplating whether to fly into Ho Chi Minh and then travel north, or to commence the adventure in Hanoi and head south? There’s no definitive right or wrong, as both directions are entirely feasible . While our proposed itinerary goes from north (Hanoi) to south (Ho Chi Minh), as this was the route we took in the month of March, you have the flexibility to reverse it. Two considerations can guide your decision-making process.

Firstly, it’s advisable to check the weather beforehand , steering clear of chilly winter months in the northern cities or scorching summer temperatures in central and southern Vietnam. Secondly, assess which city offers more favorable flight options for your journey. Both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh boast international airports connecting to the world and domestic flights, making either a suitable starting point for your Vietnam itinerary. The key is to choose the one with the most convenient and preferable flights for your travel plans.

Discover the best flight deals to Vietnam on  Skyscanner

READ MORE | Vietnam Travel Tips – Complete Trip Planning Guide For First Timers

Vietnam Itinerary Day 1 – 3 | Hanoi

As the capital and arguably the most vibrant city in the country, Hanoi is the perfect gateway to kickstart your three-week Vietnam itinerary. With a blend of Southeast Asian, French, and Chinese influences, the city’s heartbeat can be felt most intensely in the Old Quarter. This bustling district, filled with narrow winding streets, is a haven for street food enthusiasts and those seeking the authentic pulse of Vietnamese life .

It’s our favorite part of Hanoi and a place that can easily captivate you for days. Beyond soaking in the historic charm of colonial architecture amidst the city’s chaotic energy, coffee lovers are in for a treat with Hanoi’s cozy cafes. Most of the city is best explored on foot, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its labyrinthine streets. Allow the aroma of street food to guide you through alleyways, where you can taste the authenticity of Vietnamese culinary delights .

For a leisurely afternoon, explore the West Lake area, discovering pagodas and quieter neighborhoods away from the urban hustle. Cap off your day with a street food tour, the perfect introduction to the diverse Vietnamese cuisine. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for a cocktail, Hanoi boasts plenty of trendy bars.

READ MORE | The Best Cafes in Hanoi | The Ultimate Vietnam Coffee Guide

Best things to do in Hanoi

• Explore the Old Quarter’s colonial charm. Don’t miss St. Joseph’s Cathedral and its vibrant surroundings.
• Dive into Vietnamese coffee culture and make sure to try the iconic egg coffee .
• Watch trains pass by at the infamous Train Street .
• Step into Vietnam’s ancient history at the Temple of Literature , a well-preserved complex dedicated to Confucius and housing the nation’s first university.
• Experience tranquility at Hoan Kiem Lake , an oasis in the city’s heart, and explore Ngoc Son Pagoda.
• Explore Dong Xuan Market with its vibrant atmosphere.
• Marvel at the historical Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long .
• Attend a Traditional Water Puppet Show , a puppet performance that weaves folk tales and legends.
• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and photograph the One Pillar Pagoda .
• Stroll Phung Hung – a colorful art mural street .
• Head to West Lake and visit idyllic lakeside temples like Tran Quoc Pagoda and Thuy Trung Tien Temple .
• Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Ta Hien Beer Street with a refreshing Bia Hoi.
• Indulge in a street food tour for authentic flavors.
• Walk or cycle across the historic Long Bien Bridge for panoramic river views.

JOIN A STREET FOOD TOUR IN HANOI

The ultimate introduction to Vietnamese street food? Embark on a street food tour! Our first evening in Hanoi was made unforgettable by a delightful small-group street food adventure led by Minh, our fantastic guide. Amidst exploring the bustling streets, we sampled Hanoi’s finest dishes. Minh’s expertise led us to hidden gems we’d have missed otherwise. With insights into each dish’s nuances, alongside fascinating tidbits about Hanoi and its culinary scene, this tour emerged as a highlight of our trip. Without a doubt, an experience we wholeheartedly endorse!

How to get from Hanoi Airport to the City Center

Arriving at Hanoi International Airport? Opt for the most economical route to the city center: hop on the Hanoi Airport Bus 86 , stationed just outside the arrival terminal. Departing every 30 minutes from 6:20 AM to 11 PM (the bus waits until it’s reasonably filled), the bus takes around 1 hour to reach its final stop, Hanoi Railway Station near the Old Quarter. The ticket costs 45,000 VND (less than 2 USD) and can be paid directly on the bus. If you’re short on cash, hit up an ATM inside the airport beforehand.

Alternatively, though pricier, taxis are available. For the best rates, download the Grab app (SE Asia’s equivalent to Uber).

TIP | Buy a SIM CARD from Viettel at the airport the moment you arrive or get an E-sim with Airalo to secure reliable internet access in advance.

Where to stay in Hanoi

Hanoi offers exceptional hotel quality for the value you invest. Opt for accommodations in the Old Quarter or near Hoan Kiem Lake to conveniently explore all the attractions in the city center by foot.

LUXURY | Scent Premium Hotel

For those seeking a blend of modern elegance and affordability, Scent Premium Hotel is an ideal choice. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Hoan Kiem Lake from the rooftop bar. The onsite restaurant serves a delightful array of Vietnamese and European dishes throughout the day. After a day of exploration, indulge in soothing massages to enhance your relaxation experience.

MID-RANGE | Salute Premium Hotel & Spa

Experience modern comfort with a touch of colonial flair at Salute Premium Hotel & Spa . Strategically located near Hanoi Old City Gate, this hotel is within walking distance of the city’s main attractions. The air-conditioned rooms are tastefully decorated and equipped with all essential amenities. Enjoy a delightful breakfast with both Asian and Western options in the top-floor dining room, offering a picturesque skyline view.

BUDGET | Avani Central Hanoi Hotel

Nestled in the heart of the old town, Avani Central Hanoi Hotel offers an elegant boutique experience on a modest budget. Perfect for backpacking couples, this stylish hotel provides a high standard of accommodation. Relax in the shared lounge or savor meals at the onsite restaurant. Start your day with a choice of à la carte, continental, or American breakfast options.

Where to eat in Hanoi

When it comes to food, Hanoi is a paradise for street food lovers. The city can easily tempt you to spend your days indulging in all its Bánh mì’s and Pho’s. Here is our personal, hand-picked compilation of Hanoi street food spots that, are exceptional and totally worth a try:

Bánh mì cô Chun – Home to the best Banh Mi in town! Order the pate bread with Char Siu Meat and a kumquat tea.

PHỞ 213 – Dive into the classic Vietnamese noodle soup. Delicious thin slices of meat and hearty broth, tip: order some crispy deep-fried bread sticks known as banh dau chao quay.

Bun Cha Ta – Try here another quintessential Hanoi delight: Bun Cha: juicy grilled pork and veggies soaking in a delectable broth.

Nem Nướng Nha Trang Quế Hoa – Famous for their Nem Nướng, or Summer Rolls.

Cafe Giang –  The birthplace of Hanoi’s legendary egg coffee! Indulge on the creamy goodness that’s been enchanting locals and travelers for generations.

READ MORE | The Best Hanoi Street Food Places | Ultimate Vietnam Food Guide

How to get around in Hanoi

The most efficient way to navigate Hanoi’s Old Town and its surroundings is on foot! If you require transportation, Grab – the Uber equivalent in Southeast Asia – is the simplest and most budget-friendly option. Ensure you have Wi-Fi access by getting a Viettel SIM card upon your arrival at the airport.

Grab provides various options for exploring Hanoi, including cars and bikes. Opting for a Grab bike is the most economical choice, allowing you to weave through traffic on the back of a motorbike. Drivers, identifiable by their Grab jackets and helmets, are required to provide you with a helmet (a legal necessity in Vietnam).

How to get to Sapa from Hanoi?

After absorbing the bustling energy of Hanoi, it’s time to venture north to the captivating rice terraces of Sapa. To reach this scenic destination, you can opt for a bus, take the sleeper train, or hire a private driver. We recommend the bus for its comfort and affordability . Trains don’t go directly to Sapa, so you’ll have to transfer to a bus in Lao Cai regardless. The approximately 6-hour bus ride is best taken early in the morning, rather than overnight, with prices around US$18 per person for semi-sleeper buses. 

Secure your tickets in advance, as Sapa is a highly popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons. Booking bus or train tickets online through 12go in advance is a convenient way to ensure your travel plans go smoothly.

Vietnam Itinerary Day 4 – 6 | Sapa

Embark on an amazing trek through the breathtaking rice hills of Sapa! The green landscapes in northern Vietnam are a must-see on any Vietnam itinerary. Discover the stunning scenery, wandering through mountains, rice paddies, and tribal villages . One of the most popular ways to fully immerse yourself in local life is by staying with a welcoming family. If you want to see the rice fields at their greenest visit from May to September. 

Picture terraced landscapes on misty mountains, with tiny villages peeking through the clouds. Meet tribeswomen preserving traditions through their clothing and lifestyle . Sapa is home to the Black Hmong minorities, who will be awaiting you upon your arrival near the bus station. It’s a popular spot for tourists and a source of income for the Hmong minorities, so get ready for a lively atmosphere with locals eager to sell trinkets or offer walking tours. The whole experience promises an immersive journey into the natural and cultural wonders of Sapa.

How to trek Sapa

There are many possibilities to experience the mountainous area of Sapa. You can easily book an organized trekking tour in advance through GetYourGuide , ensuring overnight stays in local villages with the convenience of pickup from your Hanoi hotel.

However, exploring Sapa independently is entirely doable . Stay in Sapa City itself and venture out to nearby villages and natural attractions like Love Waterfall and Silver Waterfall. Renting a motorbike or hiking are both options to reach many places on your own. For a straightforward trek, Cat Cat Village is accessible by following a well-signed road. Yet, if you crave a more extensive adventure to a remote village, consider hiring an experienced trekking guide with the option of staying overnight with a local family.

Suggested two-day Sapa village trekking

In our case, we chose to embark on two separate hikes, each with different trekking guides from Sapa town:

Day 1 Sapa Village Trekking: Ma Tra – Ta Phin trek

Trekking through the Rice Terraced Fields with the Sapa Sisters . Together with our lovely guide Lam, we tackled the Ma Tra – Ta Phin trek , heading north from Sapa, following what they call the ‘Buffalo route,’ which truly takes you through the rice field paddies. They provide boots at their office, a handy suggestion, especially during muddy and wet conditions. Even though we didn’t have the best weather on this specific day (we couldn’t see anything from the low-hanging fog) and the trek was rather challenging, we genuinely had an unforgettable day!

Day 2 Sapa Village Trekking: Y Linh Ho – Lao Chai – Ta Van

We explored Y Linh Ho – Lao Chai – Ta Van villages south of Sapa with Vang from Trekking Tour Sapa . This trek offers breathtaking mountain landscapes and showcases Sapa’s significant rivers and valleys. On our second day trek, we had more luck as the skies cleared open and we were finally able to enjoy those epic Sapa views.

During these treks, you’ll witness the renowned rice terrace fields (weather permitting—we, unfortunately, had one bad day but still had a blast) and delve into the culture, customs, and traditions of Sapa’s two main ethnic minorities. Our knowledgeable tour guides shared insights into Hmong’s unique marriage traditions, rice fields, work, house-building techniques, and much more!

Following your trek in the afternoon or on the day of your arrival, consider taking the cable car to the summit of Fansipan Mountain , the highest peak in the Indochinese Peninsula at 3,143 meters. Please note that this activity is weather-dependent, and it’s not advisable to spend money on it if the weather isn’t clear. Given the cost is 25 USD (600,000 VND) per person to go up with the cable car.

Where to stay in Sapa

LUXURY | Topas Ecolodge

Indulge in a serene stay at Topas Ecolodge if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere a bit outside of town. Recognized by National Geographic as one of the world’s most unique lodges, the resort offers stunning rooms with comfortable beds and spacious bathrooms. The breathtaking views over the valley from the impressive pool may tempt you to spend your entire stay enjoying the resort’s luxuries.

MID-RANGE | Sapa Horizon Hotel

For a great value without compromising comfort, consider Sapa Horizon Hotel . The spacious and immaculate rooms, featuring comfortable beds provide a wonderful retreat. The simple yet classic decor and incredible views of the valley below enhance the overall experience, making it a fantastic choice for the price. There is an on-site restaurant available, however, the hotel is close to all the city center’s restaurants.

BUDGET | Sapa Garden Hotel 

Enjoy a delightful stay at the family-run Sapa Garden Hotel , where they ensure your well-being. Conveniently located in Sapa town, close to restaurants yet offering a peaceful setting with mountain views from the terrace. Some rooms feature a relaxing seating area, and all rooms are comfortably decorated with essential amenities. The property offers bike rentals and the opportunity to book treks directly through them.

Where to eat in Sapa

Good Morning Vietnam – Savor their must-try curry chicken in coconut! We also enjoyed a cup of hot ginger tea to warm up during our visit. Delicious dishes at reasonable prices, and the owners are delightful!

Little Sapa restaurant – Offering a variety of local cuisine options, including vegetarian dishes.

ChuSu Kitchen – For a slightly more upscale experience. While the portions are a bit smaller, the flavors are delicious. We opted to share and try a few different dishes.

White Cloud Coffee and Restaurant – A café near the city center with a stunning view overlooking the mountains and valleys.

READ MORE | The Ultimate Vietnam Packing List – What To Wear For All Climates

How to get to Ha Long Bay from Sapa

Traveling between Sapa and Ha Long Bay, both popular spots among backpackers has become more convenient. In the past, the vast distance required travelers to go through Hanoi. We recommend booking a sleeper bus via 12go from Sapa to Ha Long Bay to avoid losing a day of travel . The journey takes approximately 10 hours, costing around $19. While the bus is generally comfortable, our personal experience wasn’t the best. We traveled during the day, and the bus made frequent stops, resembling a regular bus, picking up and dropping off locals and goods. Similar stories are common, so brace yourself for what might be an unpleasant bus ride (hopefully the overnight bus doesn’t make that many stops).

Most buses conclude at a large bus terminal on Ha Long Bay. From there, you’ll need to take a Grab to the specific dock where your Ha Long Bay boat tour departs. Most overnight cruise tours take off around noon, so you have plenty of time to get there.

Alternatively, consider returning to Hanoi, as many Ha Long/Lan Ha Bay boat tour companies provide transportation between Hanoi and Ha Long (depending included in the price or at extra cost).

Vietnam Itinerary Day 7 – 9 | Ha Long Bay

Cruising across the tranquil emerald waters of Ha Long Bay amid limestone formations and floating villages is undeniably a magical experience that we highly recommend including in your Vietnam itinerary. While it’s one of the most popular and touristy activities in Vietnam, it would be a shame to miss out on firsthand exploration when you’ve come all this way.

Exploring the islands, biking around, visiting local fishing villages, kayaking along limestone peaks, and uncovering hidden caves created an unforgettable experience for us. However, I suggest steering clear of party boats and opting for a more nature-centric approach for a truly immersive Halong Bay experience. Choosing a boat cruise with an overnight stay allows you to venture further away from the lively day-trip party boats, unless, of course, that’s the experience you’re seeking.

Which Ha Long Bay Boat cruise should you choose?

Selecting the perfect cruise truly hinges on your budget and expectations. Experiencing Ha Long Bay offers a range of options, with prices spanning from 50 USD for a day trip to 150 USD for an overnight cruise . The duration and quality of your chosen tour play a significant role, and with Ha Long Bay, you really get what you pay for. It’s crucial to be aware that there are numerous subpar tours out there, so thorough research is a must if you decide on an overnight cruise.

After comparing multiple providers and meticulously reading reviews, we decided to alter our initial plans to stay just one night. After hearing from others who felt rushed during their one-night experience, we upgraded to a 2-night, 3-day package , and we’re thrilled we did! Opting for a mid-range option with Dora Cruises , we felt it was worth spending a bit more for this once-in-a-lifetime experience, aiming for a serene cruise with fewer crowds (around 20 rooms on this cruise). Of course, there are fancier (and pricier) options and more budget-friendly ones. To fully appreciate the beauty of this magical part of Vietnam, we highly recommend spending 2 nights here , allowing for relaxation and exploration along your Vietnam route.

Discover our handpicked Ha Long Bay Cruises

3-Day / 2-night Halong/Lan Ha Bay 5-Star Cruise & Balcony Cabin

2-Day / 1-night Halong/Lan Ha Bay 5-Star Cruise & Balcony Cabin

1-Day Ha Long Bay Cruise w/ Titop Island & Luon Cave

Lan Ha – Ha Long Bay 1 Day boat trip – Kayaking from Cat Ba

Our chosen cruise offered an array of activities:

• Kayaking and swimming in Lan Ha Bay
• Exploring hidden caves
• Starting the day with calming Tai Chi on the deck
• Visiting floating fishing villages
• Biking around the charming Viet Hai Village
• Taking a leap off the boat to discover hidden beaches
• Enjoying happy hours and making new friends
• Indulging in unbelievably delicious food
• Watching cooking demos

OUR BIGGEST TIP: BOOK IN ADVANCE! Especially if you have a specific cruise in mind, as these spots fill up fast. We booked a month ahead, and options were already limited. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity—plan ahead!

How to get to Ninh Binh / Tam Coc from Ha Long

For those concluding a multiple-day boat cruise in Ha Long Bay, most journeys wrap up around noon on the last day. To seamlessly transition to your next destination, we recommend pre-booking a minivan or bus through 12go to reach Ninh Binh in the afternoon. The commute typically takes only 2-3 hours, and they conveniently drop you off at your accommodation.

Alternatively, Ninh Binh can be visited as a day tour from Hanoi, but we would argue that it’s well worth dedicating at least a few days to explore the area. For those pressed for time, Get Your Guide offers a comprehensive full-day Ninh Binh tour that allows you to experience some of the key highlights of Ninh Binh.

Vietnam Itinerary Day 10 – 12 | Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Halong Bay on land,” boasts some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes we encountered during our 3-week Vietnam itinerary. Showcasing Vietnam’s remarkable nature and the rural life of its people, Ninh Binh became one of our favorite destinations. The green limestone mountains, expansive rice fields, and quaint riverboats perfectly embodied the picturesque scenery we had envisioned for this part of Vietnam.

To delve into the landscapes of Ninh Binh, a boat tour in Trang An is an absolute must . Glide along this captivating journey, surrounded by towering limestone mountains, flourishing tropical plants, and passages through mystical caves and ancient temples.

Another essential activity for your Vietnam itinerary is the ascent to Mua Cave Viewpoint. Brace yourself for not just one, but two awe-inspiring perspectives! Climb the staircase for a mesmerizing panorama of the winding river below , emerald green paddies, and the majestic ice-grey limestone cliffs. Make the most of your time exploring these stunning landscapes by either renting a motorbike or bicycle. Most stays in Ninh Binh have these available for their guests or can arrange this for you.

Best things to do in Ninh Binh

• Cycle through the rice paddies, lush mountain landscapes, and local villages of Tam Coc countryside.
• Embark on a captivating Trang An Boat Tour through the scenic waterways surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
• Visit Bich Dong Pagoda, an ancient tiered pagoda nestled gracefully into a mountainside.
• Conquer Hang Mua Viewpoint at sunrise for a mesmerizing panoramic vista of the surrounding landscapes.
• Pay a visit to Thai Vi Temple, immersing yourself in its historical and cultural significance.
• Step back in time at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, exploring the remnants of a bygone era.
• Enjoy a leisurely afternoon in Ninh Binh City, wandering through pagodas adorned with intricate wooden carved sculptures.
• Stroll through Phố Cổ Hoa Lư, a vibrant pedestrian zone in Ninh Binh city, illuminated by lanterns and adorned with lively murals. Delight in street food and captivating boat rides.
• Explore the wonders of Van Long Nature Reserve, discovering its unique natural treasures.
• Observe wildlife in Cuc Phuong National Park, immersing yourself in the diverse flora and fauna of this remarkable ecosystem.

READ MORE | 11 Amazing Things To Do In Ninh Binh, Vietnam + 2-day Itinerary

Where to stay in Ninh Binh?

Set up camp near the Tam Coc National Park, a few kilometers west of Ninh Binh city. While Tam Coc itself is a popular choice, it leans towards a tourist-centric vibe, especially buzzing with day-trippers from Hanoi during peak hours. For a more tranquil experience, opt to stay outside the town, heading north from Tam Coc towards Trang An. Nestled amidst rice fields, lotus ponds, and majestic limestone mountains, this area, unlike Tam Coc, is right within the nature zone, offering the utmost enjoyment of the mountain scenery.

MID-RANGE | ChezCao Rice Field Ecolodge Ninh Binh

Even for budget-conscious travelers seeking a touch of something special, ChezCao Ecolodge is an absolutely stunning option. Guests can bask in the pool with a view and the surrounding garden with a sun terrace for relaxation. Indulge in an extensive a la carte breakfast featuring local specialties and pancakes each morning. The homestay boasts an on-site traditional restaurant, coffee shop, and bar. Free bikes are available for those who want to explore the town or venture into the surroundings.

BUDGET | Hali Home 

Nestled near Mua Cave, this hidden gem provides comfort, cleanliness, and grounds brimming with butterflies, orchids, and homegrown veggies, accompanied by friendly dogs. The cute bungalows of Hali Home , situated amidst rice paddy fields at the base of a massive limestone cliff, offer panoramic views straight from your room. Although the rooms are simple, they provide comfort and cleanliness. Located in a peaceful corner of Tam Coc, it remains conveniently close to all major attractions. The stay includes free bikes for discovering nearby natural wonders, and the super-friendly owners go the extra mile to make you feel at home.

HOSTEL | The Banana Tree Hostel

A lively and social hostel surrounded by lush nature, conveniently located near the main attractions and mountainous rural landscape of Ninh Binh. Equipped with bikes, it’s the ideal base to explore the area. The Banana Tree Hostel features an on-site bar and restaurant, along with pool tables and a swimming pool for a refreshing cool down after a day of exploration.

Where to eat in Ninh Binh

You will find plenty of cozy and delicious places to eat while biking around Tam Coc & Ninh Binh area. Just in case you get hungry pin the following ones on Google Maps when you need to find something quick.

Bánh Mì Giòn – Try their Vietnamese beef steak banh mi, a culinary masterpiece resembling a deconstructed banh mi, undoubtedly one of the highlights of our journey!

Tôm Bôp Bar – Indulge in mouthwatering burgers and egg coffee.

Nam Coffee Beer Garden – A picturesque venue to savor coconut coffee and stunning views amidst lotus flower ponds.

Nhật linh – Fresh and delicious spring rolls and papaya salad within a natural setting, with the added charm of a cozy atmosphere in the evening.

Minh Quan Restaurant – the perfect place to enjoy lunch with a view amid your biking adventures.

How to get to Hue from Ninh Binh

The distance between Ninh Binh and Hue is considerable, with the journey spanning around 11 hours. To optimize your 3-week Vietnam itinerary and save on accommodation costs, it’s advisable to opt for overnight transport. Both trains and sleeper buses are available for this route. We chose to book the sleeper train through 12go and were pleasantly surprised by the experience. It proves to be the most cost-efficient option, offering cleanliness and punctuality. To secure your spot, it’s crucial to book at least two weeks in advance , especially during the high season when availability tends to fill up quickly.

Vietnam Itinerary Day 13 – 14 | Hue 

Next on the Vietnam itinerary is Hue, a frequently overlooked gem on backpacker routes. This historically rich and unexpectedly trendy city is an ideal stop to immerse yourself in Vietnam’s captivating culture . Once the ancient capital and the center of the imperial Nguyen dynasty, it is one of Vietnam’s most historic cities.

Explore the city’s wealth of ancient tombs, exquisite pagodas, and notably, the awe-inspiring walled imperial city . Take a few hours to wander through the ancient Imperial City, encircled by a moat, offering a glimpse into the royal legacy of Vietnamese emperors.

Beyond its appeal to history enthusiasts, Hue is a haven for foodies and coffee lovers . Discover the extensive coffee culture, including the birthplace of the delicious Cà Phê Muối or Salted Coffee. Thanks to its status as the imperial capital, Hue boasts a renowned royal cuisine, featuring unique dishes not easily found elsewhere in Vietnam.

For the adventurous traveler, Hue holds a special allure—the city is home to the infamous abandoned waterpark with the iconic Dragon head , adding an extra layer of intrigue to your visit.

Best things to do in Hue

• Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Hue’s Imperial Citadel.
• Discover the Royal Tombs, with Emperor Minh Mang’s, Khai Dinh’s, and Tu Duc’s being particularly noteworthy.
• Embark on an adventure to Ho Thuy Tien Abandoned Waterpark, renowned for its Instagram-famous Dragon Head.
• Sail along the Perfume River on a traditional dragon boat.
• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, a significant Buddhist site in Vietnam, offering a splendid view of the Perfume River.
• Indulge in a shopping spree at Dong Ba Market.
• Participate in a Hue Specialty Food Cooking Class .
• Wander through the Night Walking Street.
• Immerse yourself in Hue’s Coffee Culture and try out its signature Cà Phê Muối or Salted Coffee.
• Indulge in Hue’s imperial cuisine and do a try-out menu at Maison Trang .

READ MORE | The Best Things to Do in Hue, Vietnam + 2-day itinerary

Where To Stay In Hue

LUXURY | Senna Hue Hotel

Nestled in the heart of Hue and positioned along the picturesque Perfume River, Senna Hue Hotel offers an affordable taste of luxury. With the Citadel within walking distance, you can explore the city’s historical gem and later unwind by its inviting swimming pool.

MID-RANGE | Hue River Side Villa

An enchanting retreat for couples seeking an intimate yet budget-friendly stay in Hue, Hue River Side Villa is located on the serene riverbanks. Guests can savor meals in the on-site restaurant or amid the peaceful garden. Featuring a blend of traditional decor and modern furnishings, each room boasts a private balcony with scenic river views.

BUDGET | Candy Inn

Tucked away in a quiet side street in the city center, Candy Inn is a charming guesthouse offering a perfect base for your stay in Hue. With well-maintained, modern rooms and a delightful breakfast served on-site, this welcoming accommodation is hosted by owners who are the epitome of hospitality. Highly recommended!

Where to eat in Hue

Maison Trang – Indulge in the imperial cuisine tasting menu at this perfect spot. Our newfound love for Bánh bèo started here! The restaurant offers a delightful atmosphere, and generous portions, and is a friendly family-owned establishment.

Madam Thu Restaurant – A popular choice along the night-walking street, this restaurant offers another delicious option for a tasting menu.

DAUDO – Nestled along the riverbank, this café provides a captivating view, a cool ambiance, and delightful drinks. Don’t miss their unique salted peanut coffee!

Trầm Cafe – After a hot and humid stroll around the imperial palace, this is the ideal spot to relish a coconut coffee or one of their delicious homemade creations.

How to get around Hue

To maximize your experience in Hue, we recommend renting a bike for navigating the inner city. The distances between the imperial city and various attractions are a bit far to cover on foot. If you plan to explore the tombs and the abandoned waterpark, renting a motorbike might be even more convenient as these sites are located a bit away from the city center. No experience with motorbike driving? No problem—use Grab to easily reach your destinations!

How to get to Hoi An from Hue

There are various transportation options to travel from Hue to Hoi An. You can opt for either the bus or the train , bearing in mind that the train only stops in Da Nang. From Da Nang, you’ll need to take a taxi to reach Hoi An. Another more adventurous and enjoyable choice, as we personally experienced, is to embark on an Easy Riders tour, cruising on the back of a motorcycle across the renowned Hai Van Pass . The experience is nothing short of incredible, offering unparalleled views. For more details on this option, refer to the upcoming section. If you’re comfortable navigating the route on a scooter or motorcycle, renting one is a viable and scenic alternative. This iconic journey guides you through picturesque countryside roads, along lush rice fields, and along the captivating Vietnam coastline, including the breathtaking 21km stretch known as the Hai Van Pass.

Vietnam Itinerary Day 15 | Hai Van Pass Day Trip

This day promises to be one of the most unforgettable experiences on your Vietnam Itinerary, just as it was for us! Riding the road from Hue to Hoi An on the back of an Easyrider motorcycle and navigating the exhilarating Hai Van Pass was undeniably a highlight . This famous 20 km winding road weaves through hills and coastlines, reaching 500 m above sea level. The Hai Van Pass gained fame through an episode of Top Gear, featuring a road that clings to the mountainside while overlooking the ocean below. It truly lives up to its reputation and is often described as one of the most scenic roads globally , with Jeremy Clarkson describing it as a “deserted ribbon of perfection.” 

How to do the Hai Van Pass

The distance from Hoi An to Hue is only 121 km, but this is a route to take your time with and spend the entire day exploring. Experiencing this part of Vietnam on a motorcycle is one of the best ways. You can either rent a motorcycle or scooter yourself or opt for an easy rider tour —a fantastic compromise for those wanting to feel the wind in their hair without riding themselves.

On an easy rider tour , you share the motorbike with an experienced professional driver who takes you from Hue to Danang or Hoi An (or vice versa), making stops at all the incredible vantage points along the way. They serve as your personal guides and drivers for the day, familiar with all the secret spots and perfect photo opportunities on the motorbike. You need not worry about your luggage; depending on the size and amount, they either strap it on the back of the motorcycle or transport it ahead to your next stay in a separate vehicle.

While several companies offer day trips along this route, we highly recommend the private Easy Rider Tour we booked . Our experienced drivers, Dan and Tuan, ensured our safety and made sure we had an unforgettable time. They shared a few secret spots and viewpoints that were nothing short of spectacular. Notably, other tours didn’t stop there, making our experience even more special.

The day tour includes the following stops:

• Driving along local villages and country lanes between the rice fields
• Fishing village near the Tam Giang Lagoon
• Swimming in the natural pools of Suoi Mo Waterfall (Dream Waterfall)
• Lang Co Beach & Beachside lunch
• The Hai Van Pass, ranked among the world’s top ten most beautiful coastal roads
• Coffee stop with an incredible view (a hidden gem!)
• Dragon Bridge in Danang City
• The Marble Mountains

Vietnam Itinerary Day 16 – 18 | Hoi An

Chances are you’ve come across images of this enchanting ancient town, and rightly so, as Hoi An is one of the most picturesque towns in Vietnam. The place is truly a vision with its vibrant yellow colonial architecture, serene riverfront, charming lanes, and a distinctive feature – hundreds of colorful lanterns that illuminate the town every evening . It’s a magical sight, making it a highlight on every Vietnam itinerary and attracting crowds as the sun sets.

The old town, once a bustling trading port from the 15th-19th century, is a fusion of traditional and foreign influences on its architecture. The French, Chinese, and even Japanese influences contribute to its colonial allure, drawing tourists worldwide. While it can get crowded, especially along the river at night, Hoi An’s beauty is irresistible. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, it holds historical significance.

The best way to experience Hoi An is by strolling through its quaint streets, discovering ornate pagodas, and exploring heritage buildings. Don’t miss the iconic Japanese bridge, well-preserved wooden houses, and Chinese assembly halls. To enter the old town, you’ll need a ticket (120,000 VND), allowing you to visit five monuments. 

Best things to do in Hoi An

• Explore the Old Town , adorned with colonial buildings and its picturesque riverside
• Witness the vibrant spectacle of Hoi An’s lanterns , with the option to partake in the popular activity of releasing lights on a gondola in the evening.
• Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge .
• Discover Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien and Guan Di Temple
• Explore the Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum , a creation of photographer Rehahn. Immerse yourself in the captivating display of traditional clothing and photographs showcasing various ethnic groups in Vietnam. 
• Experience the Coconut Mangroves through a fun coconut basket boat ride .
• Take a day trip to My Son ruins , the ancient spiritual capital of the Champa empire.
• Relax on the shores of Cua Dai Beach or An Bang Beach with a refreshing cocktail.
• Participate in a Cooking Class to master local culinary delights.
• Explore the countryside and ride along buffalo-filled rice paddies with a private bike tour .
• Take a day trip to Danang to explore Lady Buddha, Marble Mountains, and Am Phu Cave
• Take a leisurely break at one of the charming cafés to have a delicious coffee or two, each boasting its unique style.
• Indulge in shopping or have a custom suit or dress tailored – Hoi An is renowned for its tailoring!
• Embark on a day trip to the Go lden Hands Bridge in Danang.
• Bring home your very own hand-made souvenir by learning how to make a lantern yourself.

You can explore the sights by meandering through the streets to discover hidden gems or opt for a guided walking tour for a deeper local perspective on the town’s history.

Where To Stay In Hoi An

Hoi An offers a diverse range of charming boutique hotels, conveniently situated near the old town or close to the beach, often at affordable rates and some even featuring swimming pools!

BEST PRICE QUALITY | Hoi An Merrily De Art Hotel

We absolutely loved our stay at the Hoi An Merrily De Art Hotel . This boutique hotel, characterized by its cleanliness, modernity, and high ratings, exceeded all our expectations. The meticulous attention to detail in room decor, along with the remarkably comfortable beds, created a perfect retreat. Some rooms even offer the added charm of a balcony. The hotel’s amenities, including a garden, swimming pool, shared lounge, and a delightful breakfast buffet, contributed to the overall enjoyment of our stay. The attentive staff played a key role in ensuring a pleasant experience. Situated in a quieter area close to the old town, the hotel’s location provided convenient access, further enhanced by the availability of complimentary bicycles.

BY THE BEACH | Dai An Phu Villa

Nestled near Hoi An’s beach, Dai An Phu Villa combines affordability with a touch of luxury. The property features a beautiful pool surrounded by lush gardens, and the spacious, airy rooms offer ample natural light and various amenities. With an impressive breakfast, this hotel is a great value, and guests enjoy complimentary bicycle use for convenient access to the old town.

REMOTE | Grand Sunrise Palace Hoi An

For an indulgent yet budget-friendly option, Grand Sunrise Palace Hoi An offers a luxurious stay located between the old town and the beach. The hotel boasts professional, friendly staff, luxurious rooms with extremely comfortable beds, and impeccable cleanliness throughout. With a swimming pool, on-site spa, fitness center, bar, and restaurant, it provides a treat without breaking the bank.

RIVERSIDE | The Quin Riverside Villa

Situated right at the river, a short walk from Hoi An’s Old Town, The Quin Riverside Villa offers spacious rooms with beautiful modern decor and mountain views from the balcony. The villa provides a relaxed setting with a small pool and a lovely garden overlooking rice fields. The villa’s welcoming atmosphere is complemented by owners always available for a friendly chat and ready to assist with practical trip planning. Guests can take advantage of the complimentary bicycles provided.

Where to eat in Hoi An?

Cao lầu Không Gian Xanh – Indulge in the specialty dish ‘Cao Lao’ noodles at this spot, and trust us, it’s among the best dishes we’ve tasted in Vietnam. The perfect blend of flavors, delightful texture, and generous portion size make it a standout. Don’t miss out on the Grilled Meat with Noodles (Bún Thịt Nướng) – it comes highly recommended.

Madam Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen – Undoubtedly one of the top places for Banh Mi! The uniquely tasty and incredibly crispy banh mi here is packed with flavor in every bite. We went here 3 days in a row for lunch!

White Rose Restaurant – Dive into another regional specialty, the famous white rose dumplings.

Hoi An Coffee Hub – Tucked away in an alley, this hidden gem is an oasis perfect for winding down with a cup of coffee.

7 Bridges Hoi An – If you ever crave a burger, 7 Bridges is the place to be. They serve up a mean burger and fries, complemented by amazing craft beer on tap. The beautiful setting of their backyard and the interior decor adds to the overall dining experience.

How to get to Ho Chi Minh from Hoi An

After exploring Hoi An, the next destination on our 3-week Vietnam itinerary is Ho Chi Minh City. Given its southern location, traveling by bus or train would be quite time-consuming . The overnight train from Da Nang (a nearby city) to Ho Chi Minh City takes approximately 19 hours, departing in the early afternoon and arriving the next morning. Another option is the overnight sleeper bus from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City, which takes almost 24 hours. However, we don’t particularly recommend these choices. It might be more practical to consider making an extra stop along the way in Da Lat and/or Mui Ne, requiring a few additional days in your Vietnam itinerary. We’ve provided some options for towns or cities along this route at the bottom of this article in case you have the flexibility to spend extra time in Southern Vietnam.

The easiest and fastest option, however, is to take a bus or taxi to Da Nang and then catch a domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City (approximately 1.5 hours). This is the swiftest method, and if booked in advance, prices remain reasonable (from €40 inclusive 20kg luggage).

Vietnam Itinerary Day 19-21 | Ho Chi Minh

We’ve reached the final destination of this Vietnam itinerary—the sprawling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. Formerly known as Saigon, this vibrant city deserves at least a few days of exploration. Once the capital of Southern Vietnam until the conclusion of the Vietnam War in 1975, it has now evolved into the fast-paced economic center of Vietnam . Modern and bustling, with wide tree-lined avenues, dazzling city lights, and towering skyscrapers. Ho Chi Minh City stands in stark contrast to other cities in Vietnam if you’re journeying from North to South on your backpacking route. Be prepared for an intense experience; it boasts some of the most chaotic yet surprisingly organized traffic we’ve ever encountered. Saigon is a city of contrasts , where some revel in the energy of busy streets, while others find it overwhelming.

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture of this city is to explore its incredible food scene, marvel at the historic colonial buildings juxtaposed with towering structures, stroll along the riverside area, and delve into the rich history showcased in war-related museums. Additionally, consider taking a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta . Here, you can witness the extensive network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the war. Organized tours offer the opportunity to crawl through the tunnels yourself, provided you aren’t claustrophobic.

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh

• Learn about the history of the Vietnam War at the War Remnant Museum
• Enjoy panoramic views of HCMC from a rooftop sky bar: Skydeck of Bitexo Financial Tower
• Stroll through Chinatown , exploring its numerous pagodas
• Wander through HCM City Book Street
• Experience shopping and street food at Ben Thanh Market
• Embark on a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Discover the Mekong Delta on a guided tour
• Visit the Independence Palace
• Capture photos of the People’s Committee of HCM Building and Ho Chi Minh’s statue in the front
• Pause at the Cathedral Notre-Dame Saigon
• Explore the historic Central Post Office
• Wander through Phạm Ngũ Lão Street , renowned as the backpacker district
• Photograph the stylish Café Appartements block

JOIN A MOTORBIKE STREET FOOD TOUR

If you’re seeking an entertaining addition to your Vietnam itinerary, we highly recommend going on a motorbike street food tour in Ho Chi Minh ! We had a delightful evening exploring various street food spots across the city while being chauffeured from one place to another on the back of a motorbike. As mentioned, the streets of HCM are teeming with motorbikes, and the tour’s expert drivers are skilled at maneuvering through the traffic. Simply driving around was an experience in itself, and the food was equally fantastic! It was so enjoyable that we decided to do it again the following day. 😊

Where To Stay In Ho Chi Minh City?

There are numerous accommodation options in Saigon, but many tend to cater to a higher budget. A popular alternative is renting an apartment for your stay. Apartments in newer high-rises in District 4, often equipped with amenities like a washing machine, gym, coffee shop, and super-fast wifi, are quite affordable.

APARTMENT | The Haven – Lofts by the Park

We chose to stay at The Haven Lofts near September 23rd Park in District 1. This location is within walking distance of many highlights and diverse food options. The spacious air-conditioned units feature a living room with a sofa and flat-screen cable TV. The well-presented loft-style rooms include cooking facilities and an excellent bathroom with complimentary toiletries. Guests can enjoy the common lounge or rooftop for dinner and drinks with a view of Saigon’s skyline.

LUXURY | La Siesta Premium Saigon

With an art deco flair, La Siesta Premium Saigon offers beautiful suites with bright rooms, lovely decor, and very comfortable beds. The rooftop bar provides killer views, and amenities include an infinity pool, spa, and gym. Located in the heart of the city, this luxury boutique hotel is an ideal base for experiencing HCM city life. The staff is very kind, attentive, and professional.

MID-RANGE | La Opera Saigon Hotel

Featuring clean design and comfortable spaces, La Opera Saigon Hotel is a lovely boutique hotel in a great location in District 1. Perfectly situated close to major tourist attractions, restaurants, and a small supermarket, it offers convenience. The hotel boasts very clean and friendly accommodations, along with a satisfying breakfast spread and a cozy café for refreshing drinks.

BUDGET | Woody House Boutique

For fantastic central and clean accommodation at a reasonable price, Woody House Boutique Hotel is an excellent choice. The beautifully designed rooms are spacious, modern, and elegant.

Where to eat in Ho Chi Minh?

Bánh Mì Chảo Bến Thành – What a find! This roadside street food establishment proved to be an absolute delight! For an authentic and delicious experience with banh mi chao (pan bread), this place offers unbeatable flavors at incredibly affordable prices.

Bánh Mì Phố Cổ 159 – For the best breakfast banh mi in Ho Chi Minh, look no further than Bánh Mì Phố Cổ 159.

Phở Thái Sơn – Delicious authentic place to try out the Ho Chi Minh style pho.

Cà phê Linh – Lovely vintage cafe overlooking a busy intersection in the heart of the city. This café boasts great vibes, cozy décor, and a menu that includes excellent coffee.

Cyclo Resto – Frequently recommended by tourists, Cyclo Resto stands out as the perfect place to savor Vietnamese cuisine in a delightful ambiance. 

Is 3 weeks in Vietnam enough?

Absolutely not 😅 Vietnam is this vast, expansive country, stretching over 1,000 miles (~1,600km), and honestly, you could easily spend three weeks just exploring the northern part alone. But here’s the thing, its shape allows for two distinct routes – south to north or north to south (this Vietnam itinerary follows the latter). In 3 weeks, you get to dive deep into Vietnam, exploring the North, Central, and Southern regions. This Vietnam itinerary is spot-on for those who want to hit the “must-see” spots while adding some extra adventures along the way to get a taste of the “real Vietnam!”

By the end, you’ll likely find yourself yearning for more, just like we did. We intentionally designed the suggested route to be not too rushed, giving you ample time to absorb each destination. Full disclosure, we took about 4 weeks for this route because we love a more leisurely pace of travel. However, squeezing it into 3 weeks is totally doable. Feel free to tweak a day here and there or switch things around based on your preferences, whether you’re into culture or nature. Check out our suggestions below if you want to speed up your trip or have more days on your Vietnam Itinerary.

Options for extending your Vietnam Itinerary

As mentioned, our 3-week Vietnam itinerary above is a recommended route, covering the best highlights from north to south. It’s the exact path we’d choose if we were to embark on this journey again. Feel free to customize the number of days at each location based on your interests and preferences.

For those with limited time in Vietnam, consider a 2-week itinerary up to Hoi An, possibly excluding Sapa due to its remote location and longer travel time. If you have more than 3 weeks to spare, consider adding a stop in Dalat on your way to Ho Chi Minh City and allocate time for the Mekong Delta. You might even want to include some beach relaxation in Quy Nhon or Phu Quoc. Below, we’ve listed alternative destinations that can be seamlessly integrated into your Vietnam itinerary if you have extra time . Feel free to tailor the suggested plan to align with your personal preferences:

Phong Nha (2-3 days)

Explore the spectacular area of Phong Nha, dubbed the ‘adventure capital of Asia ,’ renowned for its extraordinary caves. With options for trekking, climbing, or abseiling through tunnels and rivers , Phong Nha offers a unique adventure. While the world’s largest cave, Son Doong, requires extensive planning and a significant cost, consider the more accessible Paradise Cave tour to experience the wonders of Phong Nha on a budget. Allocate 2-3 days for Phong Nha between Ninh Binh and Hue, reachable by a 7-hour bus journey from Ninh Binh.

Da Nang (1-2 days)

Although we only briefly passed by Da Nang in our Vietnam itinerary, the city offers more to explore, including an extensive beach and vibrant city life . Consider adding 1-2 extra days for Da Nang in conjunction with Hoi An or Hue. It’s a mere 40-minute drive from Hoi An to Da Nang.

Quy Nhon (2 days)

For a quieter, less touristy coastal experience, venture to Quy Nhon, a hidden gem among tourists. Enjoy clear blue waters, beautiful beaches, lush greenery, fishing villages , and a laidback local vibe. Add a few beach days after Hoi An, with a 5-hour bus journey from Hoi An to Quy Nhon.

Da Lat (2-3 days)

Nestled in the green mountains, Da Lat boasts dense tropical forests, roaring waterfalls, and diverse wildlife . Ideal for animal spotting, exploring the Linh Phuoc Pagoda, and escaping the heat in the cooler highlands. Known for its coffee plantations, Da Lat is becoming trendier. Allocate a few days in Da Lat after Hoi An before heading to Ho Chi Minh, with the most convenient way being an overnight bus journey (approximately 14 hours).

Mui Ne (2 days)

Famous for its relaxed beach vibe and extraordinary sand dunes, Mui Ne offers adventurous activities like quad biking or sand dune sledding . Add two days for Mui Ne, conveniently located between Dalat and Ho Chi Minh. A 4-hour bus ride from Dalat takes you to Mui Ne.

Mekong Delta (2-3 days)

Explore this vast region known for its network of rivers and canals, floating markets, and lush tropical fruit gardens. Take a boat trip along the Mekong River to experience vibrant markets and discover traditional culture. Stay in Can Tho, spend a night at a riverside homestay, and embark on early morning boat tours to explore floating markets and narrow river channels . In the afternoon, rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the rice fields and countryside. Gain a true taste of rural life in Vietnam and the riverine landscapes of the Mekong Delta.

If time permits, visit the beautiful island of Phu Quoc in the far southwest of Vietnam. This paradise boasts secluded white sand bays, clear emerald waters, and hanging palm trees . Phu Quoc is an ideal spot to relax and unwind after your adventurous Vietnam travels. Add a few beach days in Phu Quoc after Ho Chi Minh. Take a bus to Rach Gia or Ha Tien (around 7 hours), then board the ferry to Phu Quoc (additional 3 hours). Alternatively, a direct flight from HCM to Phu Quoc (1 hour) is a more expensive but quicker option.

Practical Travel Basics & Links

TRANSPORTATION |  For booking ferry, bus, and train rides online, we recommend using the website  12go . This platform has been our go-to across Asia, saving us from the hassle of queuing at travel agencies or bus stations. If you’re traveling during peak season, consider booking tickets ahead, some routes in Vietnam can get booked out quickly.

ACCOMMODATION |  Finding affordable places to stay in Vietnam is a breeze with  Booking.com . It’s the ideal platform to discover budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

FLIGHTS |  Discover the best flight deals to Vietnam on  Skyscanner . We love that they highlight the days with the cheapest prices for a destination, and the ability to search by month or region for flexibility.

TRAVEL INSURANCE |  When it comes to travel insurance, especially for backpacking in Vietnam, consider  Heymondo . It’s our top recommendation for comprehensive and trustworthy coverage.

INTERNET |  Secure reliable internet access for your Vietnam trip with   Airalo . Simply install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey.

TOURS & ATTRACTIONS |  For the best and most affordable city tours, day trip excursions, food tours, and cooking classes in Vietnam, check out  GetYourGuide  or  Viator .

VISA ORGANIZATION |  Before your trip, ensure you check the visa requirements for your passport nationality. Explore details on travel documents at  iVisa.com .

We hope this 3-week Vietnam Itinerary guide helps you when planning for your exciting upcoming trip. You can show some ❤ and support for the blog and help us share more adventures! Our travels are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated. It allows us to keep writing helpful travel guides and gather information to make it easier for people to discover the world.

The Ultimate Vietnam Packing List | What To Wear For All Climates

11 Amazing Things To Do In Ninh Binh, Vietnam + 2-day Itinerary

The Best Cafes in Hanoi | The Ultimate Vietnam Coffee Guide

Vietnam Travel Tips | Complete Trip Planning Guide For First Timers

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The Perfect Vietnam 2-week Itinerary + Insider Tips

May 3, 2023

Paula Martinelli

Looking for the perfect Vietnam 2-week itinerary? Look no further! With its diverse landscape, friendly people, rich culture, and delicious food, Vietnam is an amazing and budget-friendly destination that begs to be explored.

This guide is filled with insider tips , including the best transportation and accommodation options. Explore Ho Chi Minh City , the bustling capital, before heading to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An . Next up is the vibrant city of Hanoi, followed by a hike through the remote mountains of Sapa . Finally, end your adventure with a relaxing cruise on the stunning Halong Bay .

Vietnam offers an incredibly wide range of experiences for travelers. Get ready to discover the best of Vietnam in a 2-week itinerary and start planning your dream trip now!

If you are planning an itinerary in Vietnam, you will love these articles:

• Vietnam Travel Planning: All You Need to Plan Your Trip
• Vietnam 7-Day Itinerary

DAY 14 Vietnam Itinerary: Relax on Board a Junk Boat on Halong Bay

More tips for your vietnam itinerary.

Vietnam 2-Week Itinerary Overview

Vietnam is a large country, and you will need to plan in advance in order to make the most of your itinerary in Vietnam. Here is a quick overview of the itinerary I put together, as I consider it the perfect route to see the best of Vietnam in 2-weeks. If you click on each destination, you will find a full itinerary of each location and all the information and logistics associated with each city.

How To Get Around Vietnam 2-week itinerary

Vietnam 2-week Itinerary

Day 1 vietnam itinerary: explore the busy ho chi minh city (hcmc).

• Read More: A Perfect 3-day itinerary in Ho Chi Minh City
• Suggested Tour: An excellent option is to join this Ho Chi Minh City Guided Tour where you will have the chance to explore the best things to do in the city, accompany by a professional local guide.

The best way to start your Vietnam 2-week itinerary is by strolling the busy streets in HCMC . At first, you will get overwhelmed with the people, smells, and especially the traffic. Don’t you worry, it is normal and after a day you should feel more comfortable around this chaotic city!

There are a lot of things to do in HCMC . Take your time to explore and have fun just wandering around, trying street food, drinking Vietnamese coffee, walking the alleys, and getting lost – you will see a lot of interesting things and it is a great introduction to Vietnam.

In the afternoon, visit the Ben Thanh Market where you can find all sorts of produce and souvenirs. But if you’re interested in buying something, practice your negotiating skills. As expected, the vendors normally start at a price of 50% higher because bargaining is expected.

Finish the day by heading to Pub Street . There are many bars and restaurants, including the rooftop. This street is a mix of locals socializing, being seen or working hard selling all sorts of things, and tourists having fun. It’s a place to observe and immerse in the culture of the younger Vietnamese people.

If the Pub Bar sounds too much for you – handling the noise and crowds, another excellent option is to join the Bitexco Tower offering stunning views of a 70-floor building, followed by a Dinner Cruise tour down the Saigon River.

Best Accommodations in Ho Chi Minh City:

• TOP OVERALL PICK: Hotel Grand Saigon is one of the most budget-friendly luxury hotels in District 1 and it’s set in a restored colonial building.
• BUDGET: Toi’s Travel Home Central is a quirky place that offers both dormitory-style rooms and private rooms so there’s something for every budget
• MID-RANGE: Icon Saigon – Lifestyle Design Hotel is an excellent location for exploring Ho Chi Minh City as the Saigon Opera House and the City Hall are both nearby.
• LUXURY: The Myst Dong Khoi is a luxury 5* hotel that’s known for its spectacular interior design, sophisticated rooms, and fantastic facilities.

DAY 2: Explore the busy Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)

Start your second day of this Vietnam 2-week itinerary by enjoying the beautiful architecture in Ho Chi Minh City. Walking around Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll observe the strong French influence in some architecture, cuisine, and even some ways of life, since Vietnam was once a French colony.

Head to Ho Chi Minh City Hall , a gorgeous building with a French colonial design. Just a short walk you can see other landmarks from the French, Notre Dame Cathedral, and just across the street the beautiful Saigon Central Post Office. Just a short walk visit the  Reunification Palace, built in the 60s, during the Vietnam War to be the president’s residence.

The afternoon I spent visiting the War Remnants Museum , but while the exhibits are very moving in the way to show the reality of the war, it can be difficult to swallow some of the reality.

Expert Tip:

I was well-located and walked to the sites in the city. I have found that walking is a great way to explore a city and get to really see it. When needed, I took an Uber and it worked great at a very low rate, I super recommend it. Renting a scooter is an option, but unless you grew up in a major city in Vietnam, I would not recommend it. Traffic rules are very different and the roads are super congested. (Think about walking through a shopping mall during a Christmas rush…now imagine it on scooters instead of walking…that is Ho Chi Minh City).

DAY 3 Vietnam Itinerary: Take a Day Tour to Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta

Third and last day of your Ho Chi Minh itinerary, take it outside the city and explore the amazing surroundings. The Chu Chi Tunnels are located about 90 minutes from HCMC. The site is fascinating and very educational to visit as these tunnels were used during the War.

This side trip is a must if you have time, and I not only enjoyed it but also learned a lot. I booked a private tour from a pick-up at my hotel and for a day I explored the Mekong Delta, visited the Cu Chi Tunnels, and had other amazing activities included for a very affordable price, with a local guide who explained all about this region.

My Recommendation for the Best Tour:

• This is the tour I used and the one I recommend : You will visit the Cu Chi Tunnels , one of the most popular places in Vietnam related to the Vietnam War, built by the Viet Cong in their fight against US forces, these narrow tunnels allowed soldiers to live supply routes. 
• After visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels you will head to the Mekong Delta , an incredible opportunity to see floating markets, swampy mazes, and rural rice paddies.

DAY 4 Vietnam Itinerary: Uncover the Atmospheric Hoi An

• Read More: Top Things to do in Hoi An
• Suggested Transportation: I flew Vietnam Airlines from Saigon to Danang, approximately a 1.5-hour flight.

Next on this Vietnam 2-week itinerary, I took a flight heading south along Vietnam’s coast, and I spent a few days in the amazing city of Hoi An . Smaller and more laid back this ended up being my favorite city in Vietnam. Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating from the 15 th to the 19 th century and it is very well preserved.

Hoi An is also well known for tailor-made clothes and shoes – oh, so dangerous for your wallet! Ho An is very conveniently located on Vietnam’s central coast, making it an ideal location for side trips. 

Take your first day to stroll around the Hoi An Ancient Town and enjoy the ancient yellow buildings, as they are exceptionally well-preserved and you will easily spend time just wandering from one picturesque street to the next without getting bored. 

While here, you can rent a motorbike or a bike and explore the old town, the beaches, and the rice paddies around the town. Traffic here is much calmer and experienced scooter riders will not feel uncomfortable driving. I also used the scooter to take a side trip to Danang.

Best Accommodations in Hoi An:

• TOP OVERALL PICK:  Little Riverside Hoi An is a gorgeous hotel situated along the Thu Bon River and is home to endless facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, an on-site spa, a restaurant, and a bar
• MID RANGE:  Golden Holiday Hotel & Spa has beautiful rooms and even better it is super affordable, especially as breakfast is included with your stay. 
• LUXURY:  Allegro Hoi An – A Little Luxury Hotel & Spa is a 5* hotel located close to the Japanese Covered Bridge and offers free bicycle use so you’ll have no problems exploring Hoi An.

DAY 5 Vietnam Itinerary: Continue to Explore the Best of Hoi An

Today is another great opportunity to continue to explore Hoi An. Start your day walking by the river , and visit some of the landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge , dating from the 17th century.

In the town, there are a number of houses you can visit, such as the  Tan Ky  and the  Duc An  homes are two of the more popular ones to visit, so make sure you allow some time for this! These two buildings have been inhabited for generations, with the Duc An House being around 400 years old.

After you emerge on some of the stunning architecture, it is time to enjoy the tailor shops in Hoi An . The streets and galleries are packed with tourists carrying designer magazines, and the local tailors can reproduce pretty much anything!

Once the sun goes down, the city transforms to the street yellow light and you should make your way to the Hoi An Night Market , where you can find souvenirs, carving, and some amazing street food.

• This  night market tour  of Hoi An includes a walking tour of the Ancient Town and then you’ll have a 30-minute cruise along the river. This will give you the perfect opportunity to see the city lit up at night!

DAY 6 Vietnam Itinerary: Continue to Explore the Best of Hoi An

In the morning, take an adventure across to the island village of Cam Nam , it is calmer than the city center and you can see plenty of fruit trees. If you love fresh food and are curious to see where the yummy food in Hoi An comes from visit the Tra Que Vegetable Village and experience the small farming community.

There is also amazing food in Hoi An to explore. This tour is limited to twelve people and you’ll get to visit some of Hoi An’s best foodie hotspots. Not only will you get to try authentic cuisine but you’ll be given other recommendations during your stay!

You can also  rent a bicycle  and ride on dirt roads and concrete paths among the rice fields. This is another great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery and observe the life of the locals who work in the fields. End your day relaxing by the public beach of An Bang Beach or Hidden Beach . 

Best Tours in Hoi An:

• If you’d prefer a local’s advice then I recommend checking out this  walking food tour
• I highly recommend this awesome  cooking class  that takes place in someone’s home so you’ll get the ultimate local experience. 
• This Cooking with Jolie in Hoi An  focuses on using the freshest ingredients possible and will teach you how to make four traditional Vietnamese dishes.

DAY 7 Vietnam Itinerary: Take a Day Trip to the Hindu Sanctuary of My Son

• Read More: Ultimate Guide to visit My Son Sanctuary
• Recommended Tour: My Son Sanctuary Luxury Trip will take you to visit the temples of My Son, also including a cooking class and lunch at a local home, and a boat ride.

There are so many places to visit around Hoi An as a day trip. On day 7 of this Vietnam 2-week itinerary, I choose to visit My Son Sanctuary, located only 1 hour from Hoi An. You can rent a motorbike or hire a private guide to drive you.

The  UNESCO  World Heritage Site of My Son is located in a lush rainforest creating a dramatic site. It was built between the 4th and 13th centuries CE, and during this time, Cham was a unique culture that developed on the coast of modern Viet Nam and had its spiritual origins traced back to Indian Hinduism.

Back to Hoi An, don’t miss the Precious Heritage Gallery by world-famous photographer Rehahn. His mission to collect and photograph the costumes of each of Vietnam’s native tribes is stunning to behold. For dinner, you have plenty of amazing options for cafes and restaurants for some traditional or fusion food.

This tour is the best option if you are looking to combine a visit to the My Son Sanctuary, and also, visit the main sites in HoiAn with a local guide. It includes hotel pick up and the whole length of this tour is approximately 7 hours.

DAY 8 Vietnam Itinerary: Take a Day Trip to the Marble Mountains

• Read More: Complete guide to visit the Marble Mountains in Da Nang
• Recommended Tour: Marble Mountain from Hoi An Private Tour , is a 6-8 hours tour with a local guide, offering the best opportunity to learn and explore the best of this Vietnam area.

On day 8 of this Vietnam 2-week itinerary, I rented a motorbike and took a day trip to the city of Danang , to visit the Marble Mountains. A group of five limestone and marble mountains several of which you can climb. You can easily spend a full day exploring this fascinating site!

It is easy to get here, only a one-hour drive from Hoi An. Also, it is cheap, you will find amazing opportunities for photos, have fun exploring the intriguing pagodas and sites, pulse get a 360 degrees view from the top!

The Marble Mountains in Danang are a group of unique five limestone and marble hills in the Ngu Hanh Son District. The mountains’ sheer, porous limestone is punctuated by  caves, hiking trails, and tunnels , which are fitted with spectacular Buddhist and Hindu shrines.

If you don’t want to rent your own motorbike to go visit Marble Mountain, this excellent tour offers hotel pick up and they will take you from Hoi An during a 4-hour journey to visit the Marble Mountains and the Lady Buddha.

DAY 9 Vietnam Itinerary: Travel to Sapa Town

• Read More: How to do an authentic homestay in Sapa
• Suggested Transportation: I flew Vietnam Airlines from Danang to Hanoi, and took a night train from Hanoi to Sapa

From Hoi An I flew to Hanoi, which is an approximately 2 hr. flight. Arriving in Hanoi I had my night train already booked to Sapa, so I took an Uber from the airport to the train station. You can check options for the night train . While in Sapa, the only transportation you will need is your feet. My night train arrived early morning in Sapa town and my Black Hmong guide was waiting for me at the train station, as I had made arrangements with my guide prior to my trip to Vietnam.

We started hiking to the steep mountains of Sapa. We hiked for about 4 hours, and we arrived at my Homestay at my guide’s house, where she cooked an amazing meal on the fire pit in the middle of the kitchen, while I played with the kids.

If you don’t want to do a homestay with one of the tribes in Sapa, you have the option to visit only the town of Sapa and its surroundings, with the opportunity to visit some villages for a day of hiking.

• If you also want to visit Sapa during your Vietnam itinerary, you have the option to book a tour in advance with a travel agency, and I recommend choosing an  ethical tour operator like this one . Or you can book directly with a local lady, if you are interested in my friend Bau, please leave me a comment at the end of this article and I will personally connect with you to provide her contact information.

DAY 10 Vietnam Itinerary: Hike the Misty Mountains in Sapa and Experience Homestay with Black Hmong

On day 10 of my Vietnam 2-week itinerary, I started with an amazing homemade and fresh breakfast, we left for another day of trekking, visiting some local remote villages, visiting the local school, crossing bridges, and seeing some local ladies washing clothes in the river, and visiting the local market to shop for fresh ingredients to cook dinner at my homestay.

During my Sapa hiking, besides the challenges to hike on muddy terrain and up the hills and narrow paths around the rice paddies, I was constantly rewarded with stunning views of the mountains and the villages.

I watched a family making knives and swords, visited the school in the village, crossed beautiful bridges, and saw local ladies washing clothes in the river. Along my hiking in Sapa, I also crossed pigs, dogs, water buffalos, chickens, and cows…all animals walk freely or on private property and I loved seeing people respect animals and treat them as part of their family.

Read More About My Experience in Sapa:

• I would recommend you to read more about  what a typical day at a homestay in Sapa looks like , where share a lot of details you will love to learn before you go trekking Sapa and do a homestay with a local hill tribe.
• Also, this 3-day itinerary in Sapa will explain in detail what to expect when you go hike and homestay in Sapa.
• This article explained all about the sustainable tourism of homestays in Sapa

DAY 11 Vietnam Itinerary: Hike the Misty Mountains in Sapa and Experience Homestay with Black Hmong

When you choose to go trekking Sapa and do an authentic homestay, be prepared for a real-life experience with the local hill tribes. They will share everything with you. I really mean, EVERYTHING! Their house, the families, their culture and even their clothes and they’re…well, partyyyyy! 😉

I was so honored to be invited to a local wedding and I have decided to skip the last day of trekking to participate in a traditional and authentic experience. If you are lucky and stay with a local family, you most likely will have the best experience and will participate in the real life of the local tribes in Sapa. I have written a very comprehensive Sapa Ethical Travel Guide . 

The fun part started when I had to dress appropriately for the party, which means, I wouldn’t wear my fancy muddy trekking clothes, but instead, I had to wear one of the traditional Black Hmong homemade beautiful clothes. I am not a big girl, but still, the clothes were small for me, considering that the Black H’Mong people are smaller than me.

After the party, I head back to Sapa town and took my night train back to Hanoi.

DAY 12 Vietnam Itinerary: Travel to Hanoi to continue the trip to Halong Bay

• Read More: Best Luxury Cruises in Halong Bay and also Best Overnight cruises in Halong Bay
• Recommended Transportation: Took a night train from Sapa to Hanoi. My cruise tour operator picked me up in Hanoi with a shuttle to Halong Bay.

I took the night train in Sapa back to Hanoi, and I was picked up by my cruise company. I rode in a mini-bus with other travelers from Hanoi to Halong Bay. The cruise company also transported us back to Hanoi (round trip Hanoi-Halong was included in the cruise). The drive was 4 hours each way.

Spend the day sailing among the majestic limestone tasks and relaxing on board the junk boat. Have a drink on the rooftop while appreciating the amazing limestone formations. Visit the floating village and get to see how some local families still live on the bay.

Visiting Halong Bay involves taking a tour, and there are boats of all different budgets, sizes, styles, and with different activities offered, and I recommend doing your research to find the most suitable option for you. Some highly recommended are:

My Recommendation for Tours in Halong Bay:

• La Pinta Cruise  was my choice for an overnight cruise in Halong Bay, and I highly recommend it. The boat is great, the accommodations are very comfortable, and the service and food are outstanding.
• All-Inclusive 3-day & 2-night   Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay route tours are one of the most amazing options out there! Not only will you get to visit a variety of destinations, but this cruise puts more of an emphasis on onboard activities and socializing.
• 2-Nights on Best Balcony Cruise  is the perfect option. Ran by Halong Bay Cruise Hunters, you know you’re in for a fantastic time as this company has thousands of reviews on Tripadvisor.

DAY 13 Vietnam Itinerary: Relax on Board a Junk Boat on Halong Bay

Halong Bay is the most visited place in Vietnam and every year millions of people come here, and for a reason. The opportunity to sail on a junk ship through hundreds of dramatic limestone mountains isn’t something to be missed.

There are so many  karst islands  and rocks rising from the water in every direction that it looks mystic. There are caves, secret lagoons, sea gypsies, and  approximately 1,900 islands and islets  that will just take your breath away. For this reason, the only way to visit  Halong Bay is by boat .

The cruise lines offer different tours. The one I took I go to visit a cave which was very intriguing.

In the afternoon I grabbed a kayak and explore the Bay taking the time to appreciate the beauty of this unique place. At night enjoy a very fun cooking class on board your junk boat.

Last day of my 3-day cruise, lounging out on my balcony while watching the majestic scenery of this place before I get back on the road and continue my amazing journey on the way to a week in Cambodia .

Check the section below for very helpful logistics to plan your safe and fun Vietnam 2-week itinerary and safe travels!

Vietnam Trip Resources

Planning a trip to vietnam.

During my planning for the Vietnam 2-week itinerary, I researched the internet and also, bought some books and maps to help me with my itinerary in advance. An excellent guidebook that I used during my itinerary preparation is the Lonely Planet Vietnam Guidebook, as it has tons of great information.

Also, visiting at least one big city to get the vibe of the unstoppable lifestyle in Vietnam is a great idea and you can check between Hanoi vs Saigon and see which city fits best for you . I booked almost everything in advance – flights, accommodation, trains, and tours to Sapa and Halong Bay .

Keep in mind that pre-planning, researching, and understanding what you are looking for will help make your travels far more successful and safe. Make sure you check the following articles:

• Vietnam Travel Tips: Everything you need to know before your trip
• 7 Days Vietnam Itinerary
• Best Hoi An itinerary
• Best Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary
• Best Hanoi Itinerary
• Best Da Nang itinerary
• Incredible things to do in Mui Ne
• 10 Most Incredible Halong Bay Luxury Cruises
• Halong Bay Overnight Cruises: Best things to do + Best Tours
• 15 Essential tips before you go on a cruise in Halong Bay
• Complete Guide to visit Marble Mountain
• Complete Guide to visit My Son Sanctuary
• 3-day in Sapa Itinerary + Authentic Homestay
• All you need to know before you go to Sapa Homestay with a Black Hmong family
• Sapa Ethical Travel: Why you should book with an independent guide

Arrival in Vietnam

You will need a visa to visit Vietnam. You can either apply for a visa via the Vietnamese embassy/ consulate or via one of the methods below:

• Visa on Arrival (VOA) – This is the most popular option for visitors arriving by plane. Go to Vietnam-visa.com to fill out an online application and pay the US$20 fee. You will receive an email with the VOA letter that you print out and show upon your arrival in Vietnam, and you will need to pay for your visa stamping in US dollars, cash only. The single-entry stamping fee is US$25, and the stamping fee for a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 3 months is US$50.
• E-Visa – Citizens of around 80 countries, including the USA and UK can apply for a single entry e-visa valid for 30 days and costs US$25.

Where to Stay in Vietnam

While the right accommodation options depending on your travel style, I am providing some recommendations for places to stay in Vietnam for each stop during my 2-week Vietnam itinerary.

Vietnam has plenty of accommodation options from hostel to luxury, as well as between and you will find whatever is suitable for you. Consider if you are planning to visit during the high season and book your accommodation in advance.

Accommodation in Vietnam is generally very affordable, and you have many options to choose from. Check the best options for hotels, B&B, or Villas.

If you value local or unique experiences like me and like to have a more authentic experience in the places you visit, check the options for guest-house.

How Much Does It Cost 2 Weeks Itinerary in Vietnam?

Traveling around Vietnam is very affordable, and prices can vary quite a lot depending on your preferences. Some people can travel around Vietnam spending an average of $30 a day per person – considering if you eat street food and use a hostel for accommodation.

My trip to Vietnam was a mid-range budget of $72 per day per person . I used a combination of 3 stars hotel, a homestay with a local family in Sapa, with a 5-star cruise in Halong Bay, which was also my biggest expense. I ate street food and also some meals at a restaurant. I opted to fly from one location to another since it saved me time. See below my average price for 2 people to spend 2-week in Vietnam:

When is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam?

The weather in Vietnam can be split by region.

• In Hanoi & the north, May to October is hot and humid with high rainfall; November to April is cooler and dry.
• In the far north, December & January can be particularly cold.
• Central Vietnam experiences hot, dry weather between January & August when temperatures can hit the mid-30 °C; whilst high levels of rainfall can occur in September, October & November.
• Southern Vietnam is generally dry and hot from November to April, and warm and wet between May & October, with the highest rainfall in June, July & August.

What to pack for Vietnam 2-week itinerary

• A travel backpack bag for a change of clothes
• Dry-fit clothes and layers are also a great idea
• Some warm clothing is needed as the mornings and nights can be quite cool
• Comfortable shoes
• Summer dress
• A pair of jeans
• A rain jacket is a must any time of the year
• Hiking pants
• Extra socks, hat, underwear, and swimsuit if you plan to swim in the waterfall
• Toiletry, toilet paper, and mirror
• Personal items such as medication, flashlight, sunscreen, insect repellent, and wipes
• Some snacks and a water purifier bottle

• Book in Advance – Especially if you are traveling during the high season. You will have more options to choose from accommodations, and you will have a better plan for activities and transportation options.
• Halong Bay – I recommend doing the 3-day cruise , as you can see more of the majestic beauty of this place and also, relax during your busy travel schedule.
• Visit Hoi An – Even if you are short in time, prioritize Hoi An as it has so much to offer and the side trips are amazing.
• Vietnamese Coffee – In my option, it is the best in the world!
• Homestay in Sapa is amazing – If you have the time, include Sapa in your itinerary. Read here more about my experience with homestay with a local tribe.
• Mind the weather – Don’t underestimate the weather, as it can be extremely hot in the summer and very wet.
• Crossing the streets – In the big cities, the traffic is INSANE. Traffic lights don’t mean they will stop for you. Please, be careful!
• Cover up – When you visit temples and pagodas.
• Bargain – Negotiating price is not rude, it is expected!
• Buy SIM card in Vietnam: You can buy a SIM card in Vietnam at the airport, upon your arrival in the country. You’ll find dozens of kiosks selling SIM cards as soon as you exit the baggage claim area in any of Vietnam’s international airports.

HUAWEI E5577s-321 Mobile WiFi Router

I recommend buying this WiFi router. You can insert any SIM card around the world, and it shares data across all your devices, up to 10, via WiFi and the battery lasts up to 12 hours.

Vietnam 2-week itinerary Conclusion

This is a very detailed Vietnam 2-week itinerary, and I hope this can help you to plan your trip and explore the best of Vietnam. Vietnam is a safe country to visit, and it is great for anyone visiting on a budget too. Just make sure you pre-plan in advance, and if you have any additional questions or suggestions just leave a comment below.

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Plan your Trip

You can plan your trip with  this easy guide  and have access to the best services I recommend and you can get discounted prices.

Why Halong Bay Luxury Cruises Are Worth Every Penny!

Vietnam Travel Tips: How to Plan a Perfect Trip to Vietnam

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days: The Best one week in Vietnam

24 thoughts on “the perfect vietnam 2-week itinerary + insider tips”.

This is brilliant! Such a perfect itinerary for two weeks. Where is your fave spot in Vietnam? I miss the food sooo much! All the best, Cassie xxx

Do you know what I like about this blog? I don’t need to read any other to have a perfect itinerary! Congratulation, very good reading

This is a great Itinerary. I have been thinking of going at the end of the year if that’s possible or maybe next year. This will come handy.

I’d love to go on a SEA tour one day and this will definitely be helpful. Thanks for sharing 🙂

I canceled a trip for April to Vietnam so this will be helpful when I rebook. Such a complete itinerary.

I needed this! I’m planning to go next year (hopefully the pandemic is over by then). I was there in 2015 for a press trip but only stayed for four days in Halong-Hanoi area. Pinning 🙂

What a detailed Vietnam guide! I’ve been wanting to go for ages and will definitely keep this article handy 🙂

What a wonderful itinerary, Paula! I love SEA so I am sure I will use it on my next trip here ? Vietnam has been such a bucket list destination for me and your photos make me wanna go there asap.

I absolutely LOVE Vietnam! I spent a month there a couple of years ago and did a very similar route to you! I especially loved Hoi An and Ha Long Bay. I would also recommend stopping at Ninh Binh if you go again!

This is so great! Vietnam has a special place in my heart <3 Thanks for the helpful guide!!

Saving this one for when travel resumes. We’ve been wanting to go to Vietnam for years, and it seems like we should actually try to make it happen. Great post!

Such a great and thorough guide 🙂 Thanks so much for all the info! I haven’t been to Vietnam yet, but it’s on my list – hopefully in the future!

Hi Nele, I am so happy to hear you enjoyed this guide. I hope you get to visit Vietnam one day, it is an amazing destination to explore.

Thank you Agnes, I am happy to help. I loved Vietnam and I am sure you will love it too!

Brit, I hear you – Vietnam has a special place in my heart too. Not only the gorgeous landscapes, but the people help to make this place even more amazing.

Thank you Ellie, I will absolutely keep your advice to visit Ninh Binh next time. I agree with you, Hoi An and Halong Bay are absolutely phenomenal places and I cannot wait to go back to Vietnam.

I am so happy to hear you enjoyed this guide Charu. I hope you get to travel to Vietnam soon.

Thanks Jiayi for visiting my blog and I am glad you found my guide helpful. I hope you get to visit Vietnam soon, you will love it!

I am so glad to hear you found my guide useful. Hopefully next year traveling will remain and be safe. I am also planning to go back to Vietnam, as I made some dear friends there.

Hi Karen, first of all I am sorry you had to cancel your trip to Vietnam. But hopefully you will rebook it at a safer time, I cannot wait to go back to explore our wonderful Planet.

I hear you! I have been exploring SEA for a few years now and each place I visit, I hold a very special place in my heart. I have been wanting to go and spend a few months on a row next time.

Hello Suvarna, I am so happy to hear you found my itinerary handy. Hopefully you will be able to visit Vietnam anytime soon too.

Thank you so much Fernanda. I try to put as much detail as I can into my itineraries and I am so happy to hear you enjoyed it.

Hi Cassie, thank you so much for checking my blog and for your kind feedback. My favorite place in Vietnam is Sapa, I absolutely love horw isolated and I made a great friend there from the H’mong hill tribe. Ohhhh the food, one of the best in the world, right?

Leave a Comment

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The Complete Guide to Vietnam

15 must-try vietnamese dishes, 10 best places to visit in vietnam in 2024, ao dai – vietnamese traditional dress, 10 best beaches in vietnam.

• Ho Chi Minh City

The 15 best attractions in Dalat

10 days in vietnam, 2 weeks in vietnam, 3 weeks in vietnam, 1 month in vietnam, bun dau mam tom, 2-week vietnam itinerary map.

Discover the most alluring destinations across Vietnam’s North, Central, and South regions with our 2-week itinerary. This carefully crafted itinerary covers a total of six must-visit destinations, including Ho Chi Minh City, Dalat, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Hanoi.

Destinations:  8

Travel time (hr):  22+

Transportation costs (USD):  125+

Total cost (USD):  550+

Itinerary details

From Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you can take bus 109 to get to the center (District 1).

Things to do : War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Skydeck, Bui Vien Street, Cu Chi Tunnels.

Ho Chi Minh City → Dalat :

• Transportation: Bus (Thanh Buoi, Phuong Trang)
• Travel time: 7 hr
• Fare: 290,000 VND

All buses offer free shuttle service to your hotel.

Things to do : Xuan Huong Lake area, Dalat Railway Station, Chicken Church, Linh Phuoc Pagoda.

Dalat → Nha Trang :

• Transportation: Bus (Phuong Trang, The Sinh Bus)
• Travel time: 3 hr
• Fare: 250,000 VND

Things to do : Nha Trang Beach, Vinpearl Land, Po Nagar Cham Towers, Dam Market.

Nha Trang → Da Nang :

• Transportation: Plane (Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Pacific Airlines, and Bamboo Airways)
• Flying time: 1 hr 5 min
• Airfare: 800,000 – 1,200,000 VND

Da Nang Airport is about 3 km from the city center and 6 km from My Khe Beach. Beachfront accommodation is a great option.

Things to do : My Khe Beach,  Ba Na Hills, Marble Mountains, Museum of Cham Sculpture.

Da Nang → Hoi An :

• Transportation: Bus (01)
• Travel time: 45 min
• Fare: 30,000 VND

Bus stops near the Ancient Town of Hoi An; choose a place to stay in the ancient town’s heart to feel the rhythm of life here.

Things to do : An Bang Beach, the ancient town, Bay Mau Coconut Forest.

To get to Van Don Airport from Hoi An, take bus 01 to Da Nang, where you can catch flights with Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, or Bamboo Airways.

• Flying time: 1 hr 20 min

Ha Long Bay

From Van Don Airport, you take bus 14A or 14B to get to Ha Long Bay (free).

Things to do : Ha Long Bay, Tuan Chau Island.

Ha Long Bay → Ninh Binh :

• Transportation: Bus (The Long Bus)
• Travel time: 5 hr
• Fare: 300,000 VND

The bus stops in Tam Coc, one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Ninh Binh.

Things to do : Tam Coc – Bich Dong, Mua Cave, Trang An Landscape Complex, Bai Dinh Pagoda.

Ninh Binh → Hanoi :

• Transportation: Bus (Trang An Limousine)
• Travel time: 2 hr
• Fare: 170,000 VND

The last destination in the itinerary is Hanoi – the capital.

Things to do : Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Old Quarter, Temple of Literature, Dong Xuan Market, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

You can take bus number 86 (35,000 VND) to Noi Bai International Airport from Hanoi city center, ending your 2-week itinerary in Vietnam.

A few notes

• As of 2024, the approximate exchange rate for USD to VND is 1 USD ≈ 25,000 VND.
• The travel time mentioned for each part of the itinerary does not include the time required for airport check-in.
• Two weeks is not enough to explore Vietnam, so we prioritize selecting the most popular destinations for international tourists.
• The above recommendations for hotels, bus operators, and airlines were selected based on suitability and without any advertising or affiliate marketing, so you can trust these suggestions.
• If you are departing from Hanoi or the northern provinces, you can reverse the itinerary.

2 weeks in Vietnam costs

Many tourists can expect to spend around $550 for a two-week trip to Vietnam. Here are some estimated fixed costs to help with your budget planning:

• Transportation costs are approximately $125. Booking flights in advance can help you secure lower prices.
• Private hotels and homestays cost around $15-$20 per night. Solo travelers can consider hostels, which are a more economical option at around $5 per night. Learn more about accommodation options in Vietnam.
• Food expenses are estimated at $15 per person per day.
• Admission fees for monuments, museums, and attractions typically range from $1 to $5.

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Vietnam: Feel The Tranquility In The Air

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Explore the fascinating Surprise Cave in Halong Bay.

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An Exciting Vietnam Itinerary

Filled with cultural complexities ranging from 21st century megacities to laid back, tucked away fishing villages Vietnam has something to offer to each and every kind of traveler. Come, enjoy this exotic and compelling tourist haven with this Vietnam itinerary where you will get to experience the best of all that Vietnam has to offer. From the peaceful pagodas and cruise journeys across quiet waters to exciting cable car rides up to the highest peak in the Nui Chua mountains and thrilling surprises in Fantasy Park, experience all this in the best possible way with this tour.

4 Places to Visit in Vietnam

1. ho chi minh city.

What’s special: Some of the best street food is available here for the adventurous eater

Main attractions: Cu Chi Tunnels, Ben Thanh Market and Notre Dame Cathedral

Famous dish: Pho Noodles

Also known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most popular places to visit in the country. Famous for its French colonial monuments such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, as well as its many Vietnamese architectural wonders, it is a must visit for anybody touring this part of the world.

What’s special: A short day trip to My Tho is a great way to get to know it

Main attractions: Dong Tam Snake Farm, Vinh Trang Pagoda and Victory monument Rach Gam - Xoai Mut

Famous dish: Fried prawn cake

Famous for being the gateway to the Mekong Delta, a major attraction of Vietnam, My Tho is one of the most popular day trips that you can go on when here. Apart from a short cruise, you can also check out the snake farms and fruit orchards here.

What’s special: You can enjoy some of the freshest seafood available in the country

Main attractions: My Son Temple, My Khe Beach Dragon Bridge and the Marble Mountains

Famous dish: Vietnamese barbeque

If it's beaches that you are hankering after, then the best place to visit is Da Nang. Located on the coast of the East Sea, Da Nang is where you can also check out the Marble Mountains, Buddhist temples and the Da Nang Bay.

What’s special: You can enjoy French colonial architecture and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Main attractions: Hanoi Old Town Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake and Temple of Literature

Famous dish: Cha Ca (Turmeric Fish with Dill), Mien Xao Luon (Glass Noodles with Deep-Fried Eel)

Another one of the popular places to visit in Vietnam, Hanoi is where you can relax and kick back to recharge your batteries after a hectic week of sightseeing. You can check out various places of religious importance here, apart from some amazing street markets that sell great souvenirs to take back home.

As you arrive at the city of Ho Chi Minh, be overwhelmed by the exalting sights and sounds of this mesmerizing town. Experience firsthand famed glory of Vietnamese cuisine and explore the city at your own pace. Over the next few days you will have the pleasure of visiting the Unicorn Island and enjoying the Sampan Cruise in the mighty Mekong River. Also included in your Vietnam tour itinerary is the visit to the Ba Na Hills and Nui Chua Mountains.

Simply walking in the streets of Vietnam would teach you so much about the past of this country, many who visit call it a sensory overload. Rich indigenous craft industries, ancient temples showing Chinese influences in the north and Hindu style of architecture in the South, French colonies with their relaxed tree-lined boulevards and skylines defined by glass and steel corporate buildings, all exist in Vietnam in perfect harmony. As you make your journey from Ho Chi Minh city to Ha Noi and onward to the fishing village of Ba Hung, you will experience this rhythm that beats at the heart of Vietnam for yourself.

• Enjoy exploring local markets of Ho Chi Minh City
• Explore Unicorn Island on foot
• Enjoy a Sampan Cruise on the Mekong River
• Have fun on a cable car ride on Ba Na Hills
• Taste some delicious local dishes of Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City: Arrival at Ho Chi Minh City Airport and private transfer to the hotel.

• Relaxing experience
• Arrival at the airport
• Sightseeing Tour and more
• Return to hotel for dinner and overnight stay

My Tho: Sampan Cruise and Unicorn Island

• Cu Chi Tunnels
• Post breakfast, go sightseeing
• Visit Cu Chi Tunnels
• My Tho City Tour
• Relax in the hotel for overnight stay.

Da Nang: Arrive into Da Nang

• My Khe Beach
• Transfer to Da Nang
• My Khe Beach and more
• Shopping and Sightseeing
• Check into hotel for an overnight stay.

Da Nang: Cable car ride in Ba Na hills, Fantasy park and arrive in Ha Noi

• Cable Car Ride
• Transfer to Ba Na Hills
• Visit Suoi Mo and more

Hanoi: Cruise with lots of fun activities

• Go on a cruise ride and more

Hanoi: Kayaking, Cooking and arrival into Ha Noi

• Watersports
• Enjoy water Sport Activities and more

Hanoi: Last Glimpse of Hanoi and depart Vietnam.

• Leisure Time
• Post breakfast, leisure time
• Check out from the hotel
• Transfer to airport
• Board flight back home

The lively city of Vietnam

The mesmerising skyline of Ho Chi Minh City

Be off to an energetic start of the Vietnam Tour Package From India as you explore the lively city of Ho Chi Minh.

Upon arrival into Tan Son Nhat International Airport, a transfer will be arranged to take you from the airport to your hotel as per your Vietnam itinerary . You have the rest of the day at leisure where you can relax for a while, shake off the jet lag and then head out to explore the city.

From the tastiest street food stalls to the classiest restaurants, from the chic boutiques to street shopping steals, Ho Chi Minh city is the town of energy and discovery. The Ben Thanh Market, the largest market in the city, should definitely be on your to do list. Stay overnight at the hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Other Benefites

Enjoy the beauty of the city at night

Inside the magnificent Cu Chi tunnels

Boating, walking, cycling, do it all today on your Vietnam tour from India

After a hearty breakfast, leave Ho Chi Minh behind and visit My Tho. In a Sampan Cruise through Mekong River, you will sail past three beautiful islands, viz. Dragon, Phoenix and Tortoise islands before anchoring at the Unicorn island. After exploring the Unicorn island on foot, sit in a hand rowed sampan through the Thoi Son Canal where a few more activities await you on day 2 of this Vietnam itinerary for 7 days . Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and relax for sometime before cycling away into the lanes of Tan Thach village. Return to Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight stay at Ho Chi Minh City.

Beautiful view from the island

Age old pagodas, French colonial buildings and tranquil beaches await you at Da Nang.

Enjoy breakfast before departing for Da Nang, where a transfer will be arranged to take you from the airport to your hotel. For decades, Da Nang kept a repute of the provincial backwaters, but as you stroll down Han riverfront, you will soon realize the major modernizing changes that are happening to this quaint town. Explore the town at your leisure. Whilst here, My Khe Beach should definitely be on your to do list. Overnight stay at Da Nang.

Surprise Cave in Halong Bay

Red Bridge in Hanoi

A thrilling day starting with the cable car ride and including Fantasy park, dream come true.

Post a scrumptious breakfast, head out to Ba Na hills, where you will enjoy a Cable car ride all the way to Nui Chua Mountain - highest point in the Ba Na range, with stops along the way and also ride along the funicular ‘hill climbing’ railway, as per this Vietnam itinerary .

Enjoy a walk across the Golden bridge amidst the foggy hills before enjoying lunch at a restaurant. After the peaceful morning, get ready for a thrilling time in Fantasy Park - third largest indoor gaming zone before returning to the hotel. A transfer will be arranged to take you from the hotel to the airport in Da Nang, and from the airport to the hotel in Hanoi. Overnight stay in Hanoi.

Cruise boats on Halong bay, Vietnam

Lake in Hanoi

Blue waters, rustling winds and amazing company, all aboard the Apricot cruise.

Post a hearty breakfast, take a peaceful bus ride as your travel through the Red River delta to reach Tuan Chau Marina from where you will board the Apricot cruise. Refresh and unwind with a welcome drink on board. After a delectable lunch, explore the surprising cave with its mighty stalactites and stalagmites,, go swimming in Titop island and climb to the top for a mesmerizing view. Relax on the deck in the evening and enjoy the sunset party before dinner is served. Overnight stay on board.

Enjoy a boat ride during your vacation

Row, row, row your boat all across the Ha Long bay today.

Start your day with Tai chi exercise or enjoy a photo hunt before breakfast is served on board. Go Kayaking in the Natural Preservation Zone and enjoy a cooking class where you can learn how to make spring rolls. Disembark at the Tuan Chau from where a transfer will be arranged to take you to your hotel in Hanoi. Overnight stay in Hanoi.

The mesmerising Halong Bay

Refreshed and rejuvenated, say your goodbyes with the promise of returning.

The city of picturesque pagodas, Hanoi is a town bustling with life. Explore the city, walk in the streets of Old Quarters and sample market wares and watch farmers market their wares at the street corners. Hanoi is a town that is trying to make up for the lost time and ravages of war by opening its arms wide and welcoming one and all with equal gusto. Based on your flight, a private transfer will be arranged to take you from the Hotel to the Airport. Depart for India with unforgettable memories of the time spent in this beautiful country post breakfast.

Golden silk boutique hotel

109-111 Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam

Silverland central hotel & spa

14-16 Le Lai Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Song cong hotel

305 Nguyen Van Thoai, Son Tra District, Da Nang 511, Vietnam

Note: Our agents will provide you these or similar hotels depending on availability

• Accommodation
• Tour Platter
• Lunch & Dinner
• Entrance tickets
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in inclusions

Vietnam Packages By City

Faq about vietnam packages, what are the destinations covered in this tour.

Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong river, Danang, Ba Na hills, Ha Long Bay, Ba Hung fishing village and Hanoi.

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

The best time to visit Vietnam is in Spring from February to April and in Autumn from August to October.

What are the major attractions in Ho Chi Minh City?

War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Jade Emperor Temple, Giac Lam Palace are some of the major tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City.

Which are the must visit spots in Da Nang?

Some of the spots that should be on your to do list are: Dragon bridge, Da Nang Cathedral, Cao Dai Temple, Ho Chi Minh Museum.

List a few must see places in Hanoi?

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo prison Museum are a few recommended must see places in Hanoi town.

23 Vietnam Packages Reviews

Read on to find out why our customers love us!

Mahima's 8 days trip to Vietnam

The halong bay cruise was a wow experience. The guide, cruise and food were really good. Overall all the tour guides were really helpful and knowledgable. I feel the time given for bana hills was little less. They should accommodate 1-2hrs more for that trip as there is a lot to explore.

Mahima Kapoor New Delhi

Shyrine's 7 days trip to Vietnam

Thank you Bamboo Hat Tours we had a great time in Vietnam, enjoyed all the tours. Sophie was able to put together a tour for us in a short time, she always kept us up to date and we had no issues. Would recomend Bamboo Hat Tours.

Shyrine Maharaj Australia

Pialy's 7 days trip to Vietnam

We had a great trip for 7 days in Vietnam covering north to south. We booked through LVP travel. Thank you Ms. Alice for her overall good support. As like every trip this also having some pros and cons like below. Pros: 1) Everything was arranged properly. 2) itinerary was created as per our requirements. 3) All the airport pickup/drop off was on time with spacious car. Drivers were always present at gate holding names. 4) all day tour service agency was very good, pickup was on time from hotel for day tour. 5) All guides were English speaking, friendly, gentle, punctual. 6) Day tour lunch was very good with many varieties. 7) Good 3 star hotels with great English buffet breakfast. 8) Domestic flights booked by agent, timing was alligned with day sightseeing timing. 9) everything was on time hassle free. Without any worries. cons: 1)Back seat in limousine bus for long journey like Hanoi-> Sapa is not preferable. 2) if one day trip starts very early morning, then that day breakfast from hotel should be allowed to pack. 3) For 3 persons family, extra bed should be properly arranged, with strong bed. Which was proper except one day. It was a memorable trip for us. We enjoyed a lot and spend a happy time in Vietnam.

Pialy Ghosh Kolkata

Tushar's 7 days trip to Vietnam

Thank you Tina for organising our team to Vietnam. Proper time management, good hotels with best view, food arrangements.. in short all arrangements wer excellent. talking about you... You are very nice person... You were always available for our service throught the trip... Good. Co-ordination..we had hazzel free trip and enjoyed a lot..all the best and keep rocking.

Tushar Thosar mumbai

Sushmita's 8 days trip to Vietnam

We had a great time on this trip. The package was customised well to suit our budget and preferences. All the transfers, accomodation were managed very smoothly and our travel agent, Steve was available at all times to answer our queries through the entire trip! Thank you! We loved exploring Hanoi on our own, the cycle trails at Nin Binh, the cruise stay at Ha long bay, the beautiful hotel with sea view at Da Nang and the city tour at Ho Chi Minh <3

Sushmita Hegde Bengaluru

Pratham's 7 days trip to Vietnam

Hannah helped us in multiple changes to hotel and itinerary. She came up with the best package. 5 stars for Hannah and her service 5 stars for all the hotels and tours included in the package 3.5 stars for La Pandora Cruise, its not the same as it looks in the picture.

Pratham Sakarkar Mumbai

Kishore's 7 days trip to Vietnam

The tour coordinator/organizer Jenna from Vietnam was very polite and prompt. As my wife was travelling with her 3 other friends, (all girls), extra care taken was clearly visible and well supported. Hotels, locations, food, tour guide, all up to mark. Thanks Jeena, would definitely recommend my friends, as when time comes.

Kishore Gandhi Mumbai

Harsha's 7 days trip to Vietnam

The trip has been amazing. From the planning of the trip Hannah helped a lot in organising and the tours itself were good with English speaking guides. She was available at all time to answer questions or resolve any difficulties faced. All in a wonderful experience .

Harsha Hota Bengaluru

Swetha's 7 days trip to Vietnam

The trip was well organized and executed. Tina and LaLa from Svietnam Trips were great in coordinating the trip and was available all the time for any queries. The places recommended by Lala was awesome, picture perfect and its natural. I went a family trip they took extra care for my MIL as she is senior citizen. The trip went as per the schedule and had no changes in the given iternary. I would certainly recommend Travel Triangle for any trips across the globe and locally. This indeed is my second travel via Travel triangle...

Swetha A Bengaluru, India

Swapna's 7 days trip to Vietnam

It was an amazing experience and hassle-free in every terms. This is my 5th trip with Travel Triangle and like always they were upto par with everything concerned before departure and also minor payment issues within the trip as well. Appreciate the work all executives put in specially Mukul , Alfred and in Vietnam, Ms Thuy. Halong Bay trip was the most memorable and once in a lifetime experience. Although we couldn't witness the much talked about sunrise in the cruise due to cloudy weather conditions but overall we had an amazing time. Halong Bay cruise is a must in Vietnam.

Swapna Sarit Keonjhargarh, India

Thaksen's 7 days trip to Vietnam

Our group trip was great experience and fully enjoyed it good management and perfect timing coach also good guides exllent and breakfast lunches very beautiful and Verity's Hotel room very clean and respectful staff . Sights scene very beautiful and natural, historical Very very thankful to both Miss Rakshanda and Bamboo hat tours Ms Sophie Regards : Mr Thaksen Gavhane

Thaksen Dattatray Gavhane Mumbai, India

Reshma's 7 days trip to Vietnam

We had a beat memoriable trip. Kate and her team was very supportive and was available always for us. Only thing disappointed us was Honai hotel it was very small

Reshma Pallikare Kuttiyadan Bengaluru

Bondula's 7 days trip to Vietnam

We went on a trip to Vietnam through Travel triangle from 17th to 23rd Aug,2019. Our trip war organized by S Viet travels. Rosie took good care of our itenarary and the pickup was prompt. Enjoyed the trip to Halong Bay and Mekong Delta. Thanks to Rosie. Halong Bay trip is a must visit and we cherished have wonderful memories. Vijay kumar pindi

Bondula Ramulu Sabitha Hyderabad, India

Sheetal's 7 days trip to Vietnam

The tour plan was organised in a way that it gave a 360 degree insight of the culture of Vietnam. On one hand where could soak in the deep rooted culture of the country in Hanoi or Mekong Delta, we could also see the western confluence in Saigon and the French architectural marvel in the Bana Hills. Over all a splendid experience. Thanks to Asia Authetic travels for the memorable moments we gathered to cherish always. Also - thanks for your continuous and prompt assistance all the way

Sheetal Chaturvedi Kolkata

Vivek's 7 days trip to Vietnam

Vietnam is truly a charming country and I am glad I made a choice to go there. Vietnamese people are very friendly and my travel agent (nick named Sophie) has been the friendliest of all. She plays a perfect host, goes the extra mile to support the tourists. She responded to all my whatsapp queries within seconds (I sent hundreds of queries at all hours of the day). She is a guide in a true sense who thinks and does what's right for the traveller. There are so many memories. The Cruise over the Halong Bay was enchanting, the kayaking was most tranquil of all activities we did. The cable car at the Bana Hill was exhilarating. But the place is known by it's people and I came across some of the friendliest people in Vietnam.

Vivek Dubey Hyderabad, India

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