Morning: Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and check into your hotel. Take some time to rest and get acquainted with the bustling city atmosphere.
Afternoon: Explore the historic War Remnants Museum and learn about Vietnam's complex history. Afterwards, take a stroll around Ben Thanh Market to experience local culture and try street food.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Saigon River, then relax with a drink at a nearby bar in the vibrant District 1.
Book a HotelMorning: Depart early for a guided tour of the Mekong Delta, where you'll visit floating markets and experience river life firsthand. Enjoy scenic boat rides through the unique waterways.
Afternoon: Visit traditional villages and sample fresh local fruits and specialties for lunch. Continue exploring rural craft workshops and flower gardens.
Evening: Return to Ho Chi Minh City and have a relaxed dinner at a café serving southwestern Vietnamese cuisine near Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
Book a HotelMorning: Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi. Check into your hotel in the Old Quarter and take a short rest.
Afternoon: Explore Hanoi's historic sites including the Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. Wander through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter to shop for souvenirs.
Evening: Attend a traditional performance at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, followed by dinner featuring northern Vietnamese specialties.
Book a HotelMorning: Depart early for Halong Bay and board a luxury cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters.
Afternoon: Enjoy kayaking or swimming in secluded bays, visit caves, and savor a freshly prepared seafood lunch onboard.
Evening: Relax on deck watching the sunset and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner with onboard entertainment. Overnight on the cruise.
Book a HotelMorning: Continue cruising through Halong Bay with morning Tai Chi session on deck. Disembark after brunch and travel back to Hanoi.
Afternoon: Visit the Temple of Literature and the Hoa Lo Prison Museum to deepen your understanding of Vietnamese culture and history.
Evening: Dine at a local restaurant offering Hanoi’s renowned cha ca fish dish and enjoy an evening walk around West Lake.
Book a HotelMorning: Use this time to explore further destinations such as Hue, Hoi An, or Phu Quoc Island. Each offers unique cultural experiences, historic landmarks, and beautiful beaches.
Afternoon: Indulge in local cuisine, visit nearby temples, or relax at the beach depending on your chosen destination.
Evening: Enjoy leisurely evenings with street markets, night cafes, or tranquil seaside sunsets as you immerse yourself deeper into Vietnamese life.
Book a HotelMorning: Fly back to Ho Chi Minh City if necessary, and spend any remaining time shopping or sightseeing based on your departure schedule.
Afternoon: Pack and prepare for your evening flight back to San Francisco.
Evening: Depart from Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your flight home.
Book a HotelIf you prefer a shorter trip, focus on Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and a day cruise in Halong Bay, which can be comfortably done in about 7-10 days. To extend your visit, consider spending more time exploring central Vietnam's historic sites and beaches like Da Nang and Phu Quoc Island. This allows a deeper cultural immersion and relaxation amid Vietnam’s diverse landscapes.