Start with an iconic bowl of pho at Pho Bat Dan in the Old Quarter; it's famous for rich broth and early opening hours, a great first-Vietnam meal. Expect locals and quick turnover so arrive early for the best experience.
Leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and cross to Ngoc Son Temple to absorb local life and the legend of the returning sword; peaceful and centrally located. Ngoc Son Temple is typically open 8:00am–5:00pm.
Explore narrow streets and specialist lanes (silk, shoes, food) to get oriented with Hanoi’s rhythms—ideal for photos and quick shopping; the walking tour is flexible and self-guided or join a local guide.
Visit the Temple of Literature (Viet Nam’s first university) to see classical Vietnamese architecture and tranquil courtyards; typically open 8:00am–5:00pm.
Catch a traditional water puppet performance to experience Vietnamese folklore through music and puppetry; shows typically run in the early evening (common slots 5:00pm, 6:30pm & 8:00pm) — check exact schedule and prebook tickets.
Try Cha Ca (turmeric fish) at Cha Ca La Vong for a Hanoi specialty, or opt for Cau Go for view of Hoan Kiem Lake; most sit-down restaurants open through the evening.
View Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum and walk past the Presidential Palace and stilt house; mausoleum hours are typically 8:00am–11:00am and it is closed on Mondays and Fridays — plan accordingly.
Explore Vietnam’s ethnic diversity with indoor and outdoor exhibits; museum hours are usually 8:30am–5:30pm and it’s best to allow 1.5–2 hours.
Sample a variety of Vietnamese dishes at Quan An Ngon which showcases regional specialties in a comfortable setting; open midday and a good spot to try many flavors.
Board a scheduled shuttle or private car to Halong Bay — the drive takes about 2.5–3.5 hours depending on traffic; leave mid/late afternoon to arrive before cruise check-in.
Arrive and check in to your overnight Halong cruise; most cruises serve a welcome dinner with seafood and Vietnamese dishes—meals, activities and evening entertainment included.
Visit Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave and/or go kayaking around small islets and floating villages; cave visit and kayak windows depend on cruise itinerary and weather—cave visiting typically possible mid-morning.
Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, Chinese assembly halls and old merchant houses; the Ancient Town is pedestrianized during the day and is typically open to visitors 7:00am–9:00pm (some houses have entrance fees).
Visit a reputable tailor (e.g., Yaly or Ms. Thu) to discuss custom garments—many do quick turnarounds but confirm timing; good for a fitting appointment or ordering items.
Cycle 20–30 minutes to Tra Que to see organic farming, join short herb-gardening demos, and learn about local produce; many tours include hands-on activity and last 2–3 hours.
Return to town for lantern-lit streets and river cruise options; the town becomes particularly picturesque after sunset—lanterns and riverside cafes open through the night.
Join a morning cooking class that includes a market visit and hands-on preparation of 3–4 dishes—classes typically run 3–4 hours and depart around 8:30–9:00am.
Private car or booked transfer via the Hai Van Pass offers dramatic coastal views; stop at the Marble Mountains near Da Nang and Lang Co Beach en route.
Visit the Imperial City (Hue Citadel) to see palaces, temples and the Forbidden Purple City; the complex is typically open 8:00am–5:00pm — allow 1.5–2 hours.
Visit the War Remnants Museum for a sobering look at wartime history—usually open 7:30am–5:30pm (hours vary); spend 1–2 hours to view key exhibits.
Tour the Reunification Palace (open roughly 7:30am–4:00pm) then walk to the nearby Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office for classic colonial architecture.
Join a guided Mekong Delta tour — most depart early (7:00–8:00am) and include boat rides, orchards, local workshops and lunch. Choose Cai Be for floating markets or My Tho for short day trips from HCMC.
If your flight is next-day, stroll through lively streets or prepare for airport transfer—Tan Son Nhat is 20–45 minutes from central districts depending on traffic.