Start your day at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, which opens at 8:00 AM. Afterward, head to the Temple of Literature, which is a 15-minute drive away. In the afternoon, explore the Old Quarter, which is filled with narrow streets and traditional architecture. Finish the day with a Water Puppet Show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.
Take a day trip to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a scenic cruise through the bay's emerald waters and limestone cliffs. Visit Thien Cung Cave and Dau Go Cave to see stunning stalactites and stalagmites. You can also go kayaking or swimming in the bay. Return to Hanoi in the evening.
Explore the Imperial Citadel in Hue, which has a rich history and culture. Visit the Forbidden Purple City, which was once the residence of the Nguyen Dynasty. In the afternoon, go to the Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-story temple with a stunning view of the Perfume River. End the day with a boat trip on the river to see the sunset.
Start your day by visiting the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An. Then, take a stroll through the Old Town, which has preserved its heritage buildings and streets. In the afternoon, visit the Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you can learn about traditional farming methods and try your hand at farming. End the day at An Bang Beach and enjoy the sunset.
Start your day at the War Remnants Museum to learn about the Vietnam War. Then, visit the Reunification Palace, a historical landmark that played a pivotal role in the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, explore Ben Thanh Market, a bustling marketplace filled with local goods. End the day with a visit to the Bitexco Financial Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city.
Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, which is known as the rice bowl of Vietnam. Visit Cai Be Floating Market and try some local fruits and snacks. Then, explore the Tan Phong Island and visit a local family to learn how they make coconut candy, rice paper, and pop-rice. End the day with a sampan boat ride to see the sunset. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.
If you have extra time in Hanoi, consider visiting the Hoa Lo Prison Museum, which displays the history of Vietnam's political prisoners. You can also take a trip to the Ninh Binh Province to see the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, which is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, which were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. If you want to maximize your fun, try some local street food and drinks, such as pho, banh mi, and Vietnamese coffee. Lastly, don't forget to book your hotels and flights on booking.tp.st.