Morning: Land at Nội Bài International Airport and transfer to your hotel in the historic Old Quarter. After settling in, stroll to Hoan Kiem Lake for a gentle walk around the iconic water‑front.
Afternoon: Dive into the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, sampling street‑food delights and browsing traditional shops. Visit the Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Island for a glimpse of Vietnamese spirituality.
Evening: Enjoy a water‑puppet show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, followed by dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the lake.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart early for the scenic drive to Halong Bay and board a comfortable cruise boat. Sail into the limestone karsts, stopping at Ti Top Island for panoramic views.
Afternoon: Explore the mysterious Surprising Cave (Hang Sửng Sốt) and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch on deck. Take a kayak trip around the secluded bay bays.
Evening: Return to Hanoi, where you can unwind with a leisurely walk around St. Joseph’s Cathedral and a nightcap at a local bar.
Find HotelsMorning: Catch a short flight to Hue, the former imperial capital, and check into a boutique hotel near the Perfume River. Begin with a visit to the majestic Imperial City (Citadel), exploring its palaces and gardens.
Afternoon: Cross the river to the tranquil Thien Mu Pagoda, then ride a cyclo to the Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh, admiring its intricate architecture.
Evening: Dine on authentic Hue cuisine at a riverside restaurant and enjoy a relaxed walk along the Perfume River’s illuminated banks.
Find HotelsMorning: Travel by scenic train and bus to Hoi An, checking into a charming homestay within the UNESCO‑listed Old Town. Begin exploring the lantern‑lit streets, pausing at the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge.
Afternoon: Visit the historic Tan Ky Old House and the bustling Hoi An Central Market for local crafts. Take a cycling tour to the nearby Cua Dai Beach for a brief seaside break.
Evening: Watch the town transform as lanterns glow, and enjoy dinner at a riverside eatery featuring the famous Cao Lau noodles.
Find HotelsMorning: Embark on a half‑day excursion to the ancient Cham ruins of My Son Sanctuary, exploring the stone temples amid lush jungle.
Afternoon: Return to Hoi An for a hands‑on Vietnamese cooking class, learning to prepare classic dishes like spring rolls and pho.
Evening: Savor the fruits of your labor for dinner, then enjoy a relaxed night strolling the lantern‑lit streets or taking a river boat ride.
Find HotelsMorning: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and settle into a centrally located hotel. Start the city tour at the bustling Ben Thanh Market, sampling fresh tropical fruits.
Afternoon: Visit the historic Notre‑Dame Cathedral and the nearby Central Post Office, then explore the poignant War Remnants Museum.
Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife on Bui Vien Street, enjoying street food, live music, and a rooftop bar with city views.
Find HotelsMorning: Take a guided day trip to the Mekong Delta, boarding a boat at My Tho to navigate the winding canals and visit local orchards.
Afternoon: Enjoy a traditional lunch on a riverside veranda, then explore the floating markets of Cai Be before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
Evening: Transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your departing flight, carrying memories of Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and culture.
Find HotelsTotal Estimated Cost: $146
If you have extra days, consider adding a visit to the mountainous town of Sapa for trekking or spending an additional night in the Mekong Delta to explore its rural villages more deeply. To shorten the trip, you can combine Day 3 and Day 4 by flying directly from Hanoi to Da Nang and skipping the Hue segment, focusing the itinerary on Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City.