A 14-Day Adventure in Vietnam

  • Day 1: Hanoi Old Quarter
    20 minutes (14.6 km) from Noi Bai International Airport

    The Hanoi Old Quarter is a bustling area located in the heart of downtown Hanoi. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the narrow streets and explore local shops, street food stalls, and cultural landmarks.

  • Day 2: Ba Be National Park
    3 hours 45 minutes (177 km) from Hanoi Old Quarter

    Ba Be National Park is a nature lover’s paradise, with lush rainforests, pristine lakes, and stunning waterfalls. Visitors can take part in trekking, kayaking, and boating activities while soaking in the natural beauty surrounding them.

  • Day 3: Ha Long Bay
    4 hours 35 minutes (162 km) from Ba Be National Park

    A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam's top tourist destinations, Ha Long Bay is famous for its stunning natural scenery and emerald waters. Visitors can explore the limestone cliffs, go kayaking, and soak in the sunset.

  • Day 4-5: Hue
    7 hours 45 minutes (420 km) from Ha Long Bay

    Hue was once the imperial capital of Vietnam, and visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage through historical landmarks such as the Imperial Citadel and the Thien Mu Pagoda. Visitors can also take part in adventurous activities such as motorbike tours and camping in the Hue countryside.

  • Day 6-7: Hoi An
    3 hours 45 minutes (130 km) from Hue

    Hoi An is a charming old town that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the narrow streets, visit historical landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Tan Ky Old House, and go on a cycling tour of the surrounding countryside.

  • Day 8-9: Nha Trang
    12 hours 5 minutes (695 km) from Hoi An

    Nha Trang is a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can take part in various water sports such as scuba diving, snorkelling, and windsurfing, and explore historical landmarks such as the Po Nagar Cham Towers and the Long Son Pagoda.

  • Day 10-11: Da Lat
    3 hours 50 minutes (140 km) from Nha Trang

    Da Lat is a highland city known for its natural beauty, cooler climate, and abundant vegetable farms. Visitors can explore the city on foot or by bicycle, and take part in adventurous activities such as canyoning, trekking, and mountain biking.

  • Day 12-14: Ho Chi Minh City
    7 hours 10 minutes (300 km) from Da Lat

    Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and a melting pot of cultures. Visitors can explore the city's history through landmarks such as the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum, and taste the delicious local cuisine at Ben Thanh Market and other street food vendors. Adventure seekers can also take part in activities such as motorbike tours and skydiving.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Hanoi Old Quarter Walking Tour (4 hours, free)
  • Ba Be National Park Trekking and Kayaking Tour (2 days, £150)
  • Ha Long Bay Cruise Tour (2 days, £200)
  • Hue Motorbike Adventure Tour (2 days, £80)
  • Hoi An Cycling Tour (1 day, £30)
  • Nha Trang Scuba Diving Tour (1 day, £50)
  • Da Lat Canyoning and Trekking Tour (2 days, £100)
  • Ho Chi Minh City Motorbike and Street Food Tour (1 day, £50)
  • Total Estimated Costs: £660

Transportation

Transportation options in Vietnam include buses, trains, and domestic flights. Visitors can take overnight buses or trains to save on accommodation costs, but should ensure that they book a reputable company for safety reasons. Domestic flights are available between major cities, but visitors should factor in transportation costs to and from airports and consider any additional luggage fees.

Useful Tips

For travelers with less time, consider focusing on one region or city in Vietnam. For example, a visit to Hanoi and its surrounding areas can offer a great mix of adventure and cultural experiences. For travelers with more time, consider adding a visit to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park or Sapa, two other popular adventure destinations in Vietnam.

Airports

Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is the main airport in Hanoi, located approximately 28 km from the city centre. Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is the main airport in Ho Chi Minh City, located approximately 8 km from the city centre. Both airports offer international and domestic flights.

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