Vietnam: City Experiences

  1. Day 1: Hanoi Old Quarter
    10 mins (2.5 km) from Hoan Kiem Lake

    Explore the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter filled with shops, vendors, and cafes. Visit the Dong Xuan market, Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, and enjoy traditional Vietnamese coffee.

  2. Day 2: Hue Imperial City
    1 hr flight (675 km) from Hanoi

    Discover the history and culture of the Nguyen Dynasty at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hue Imperial City. Walk through the gates, visit the royal palace, and admire the architecture of the Forbidden Purple City.

  3. Day 3: Hoi An Ancient Town
    3 hr drive (140 km) from Hue

    One of the most well-preserved trading ports in Southeast Asia, the charming town of Hoi An boasts a mix of Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese architecture. Stroll along the streets, visit the Tan Ky House, Japanese Covered Bridge, and Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation.

  4. Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City
    1 hr flight (790 km) from Da Nang

    Formerly known as Saigon, Vietnam's largest city is known for its French colonial landmarks, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife. Visit the War Remnants Museum, the Reunification Palace, and the Notre Dame Cathedral. In the evening, explore the lively Bui Vien walking street.

  5. Day 5: Da Lat Flower Fields
    30 min flight (227 km) from Ho Chi Minh City

    Located in the Central Highlands, Da Lat is known as the city of a thousand flowers for its sprawling flower fields, French-style villas, and cool climate. Visit the Dalat Flower Gardens, the Xuan Huong Lake, and ride a cable car to the Truc Lam Zen Monastery for a panoramic view of the city.

  6. Day 6: Cu Chi Tunnels
    2 hr drive (70 km) from Ho Chi Minh City

    The Cu Chi Tunnels are an elaborate network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the Vietnam War. Visitors can crawl through the narrow tunnels, learn about the ingenious traps and weapons used, and shoot an AK-47 at the shooting range.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Hanoi Old Quarter (2-3 hours, free)
  • Hue Imperial City (3-4 hours, VND 150,000)
  • Hoi An Ancient Town (4-5 hours, VND 120,000)
  • Ho Chi Minh City (2-3 days, free)
  • Da Lat Flower Fields (2-3 hours, VND 50,000)
  • Cu Chi Tunnels (3-4 hours, VND 110,000)
  • Total Estimated Costs: VND 430,000

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a cruise on Ha Long Bay or a trek in Sapa. If you have less time, skip Hue Imperial City or the Da Lat Flower Fields. Remember to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and be cautious when crossing busy streets.

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