Welcome to Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. Start your honeymoon by exploring the charming Old Quarter. In the morning, take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, visit the Temple of the Jade Mountain, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. For lunch, savor traditional Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Hoa Lo Prison Museum to learn about Vietnam's history. As the evening sets in, take a romantic cyclo ride around the city, immersing yourselves in the vibrant street life.
Hoan Kiem Lake and Temple of the Jade Mountain: Entrance fee: $2, Time spent: 2 hours
Hoa Lo Prison Museum: Entrance fee: $3, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Romantic Cyclo Ride: Cost: $10, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Pho Bat Dan. This charming restaurant offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese breakfast options, such as pho and banh cuon. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about $5 per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Bun Cha Huong Lien. This famous restaurant is known for its authentic bun cha, a Hanoi specialty consisting of grilled pork, rice noodles, and fresh herbs. The average cost for a lunch meal is about $7 per person.
Indulge in a romantic dinner at Green Tangerine, a fine dining restaurant located in a beautiful French colonial building. Savor a fusion of Vietnamese and French flavors in dishes like grilled sea bass or caramelized pork. The average cost for a dinner meal is about $25 per person.
Thursday April 18: Halong Bay
Embark on a romantic cruise to the breathtaking Halong Bay. In the morning, make your way to Halong City and board a traditional junk boat. Cruise through the emerald waters, passing by stunning limestone karsts and hidden caves. Enjoy a seafood lunch on board while taking in the magnificent scenery. In the afternoon, explore a floating village or go kayaking. As the evening approaches, indulge in a candlelit dinner on the deck, surrounded by the enchanting beauty of Halong Bay.
Halong Bay Cruise: Cost: $150 per person, Time spent: Full day
Optional activities (floating village, kayaking): Cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A cozy cafe called "Café de la Vie" offers a delicious breakfast with freshly brewed coffee and a variety of pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
"Halong Bay Grill House" is a fantastic dinner spot with a romantic ambiance and a menu featuring grilled seafood and local specialties. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Friday April 19: Hoi An
Fly from Hanoi to the ancient town of Hoi An. In the morning, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An Ancient Town. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, roam the narrow streets filled with lanterns, and discover traditional Vietnamese architecture. Enjoy a delicious Banh Mi for lunch, a local specialty. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along Thu Bon River and visit a nearby fishing village. As the evening sets in, enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner by the river.
Hoi An Ancient Town: Entrance fee: $6, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Boat ride along Thu Bon River: Cost: $15, Time spent: 1 hour
Candlelit dinner: Cost: $50, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at "Morning Glory Restaurant". This charming eatery offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes such as Pho and Bun Cha. The average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
For lunch, head to "Mango Mango Restaurant" which offers a fusion of Vietnamese and international flavors. Enjoy their flavorful cuisine while overlooking the picturesque Thu Bon River. The average cost for a meal is about 300,000 VND per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at "Cargo Club Restaurant". This cozy restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and serves a mix of Asian and Western dishes. Try their mouthwatering seafood options. The average cost for a meal is about 500,000 VND per person.
Saturday April 20: Hue
Embark on a day trip to the imperial city of Hue. In the morning, visit the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its majestic palaces and ancient ruins. Enjoy a royal lunch featuring Hue's famous dishes. In the afternoon, take a scenic boat ride along the Perfume River to the peaceful Thien Mu Pagoda. As the evening approaches, visit Dong Ba Market for some local shopping and try Hue's delicious street food.
Imperial Citadel: Entrance fee: $5, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Boat ride along Perfume River: Cost: $20, Time spent: 2 hours
Street food at Dong Ba Market: Cost: $10, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
A delightful breakfast spot in Hue is Cafe on Thu Wheels, a charming cafe known for its delicious pastries and strong Vietnamese coffee. Average cost for a breakfast meal is about $5 per person.
For lunch, head to Ancient Hue Restaurant, located near the Imperial Citadel. This restaurant offers a wide variety of Hue's traditional dishes, such as Banh Beo and Bun Bo Hue, at an average cost of $10 per person.
Indulge in a romantic dinner at Secret Garden, a hidden gem tucked away in a lush garden setting. This restaurant serves mouthwatering Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a dinner meal is about $20 per person.
Sunday April 21: Da Nang
Travel to the coastal city of Da Nang. In the morning, visit the iconic Marble Mountains and explore their caves and pagodas. Enjoy a seafood lunch on My Khe Beach, one of the most stunning beaches in Vietnam. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive along the Hai Van Pass, known for its breathtaking views. As the evening sets in, visit the famous Dragon Bridge and enjoy the spectacular fire and water show.
Marble Mountains: Entrance fee: $2, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Seafood lunch on My Khe Beach: Cost: $30, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Hai Van Pass scenic drive: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Dragon Bridge fire and water show: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Da Nang is My Casa Cafe, known for its delicious Vietnamese coffee and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For lunch, try Nha Hang Tran, a beachfront restaurant offering a variety of seafood dishes including grilled prawns and steamed fish. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For a romantic dinner, head to The Waterfront Restaurant, located by the Han River. Enjoy views of the city skyline while savoring their delectable international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Monday April 22: Ho Chi Minh City
Fly from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). In the morning, explore the historic landmarks of the city, including the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local eatery. In the afternoon, visit the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, architectural gems of the city. As the evening approaches, take a sunset cruise along the Saigon River and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of District 1.
Reunification Palace: Entrance fee: $5, Time spent: 2-3 hours
War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee: $3, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunset cruise along Saigon River: Cost: $30, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
A cozy cafe known for its delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee, perfect for a relaxing breakfast. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
A popular local eatery that serves authentic Vietnamese pho and other traditional dishes, offering a truly satisfying lunch experience. Average cost for a meal is about $7 per person.
A romantic riverfront restaurant serving exquisite Vietnamese and international cuisine, with stunning views of the Saigon River. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Tuesday April 23: Mekong Delta
Embark on a day trip to the scenic Mekong Delta. In the morning, take a boat ride along the Mekong River and explore the bustling floating markets. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch in one of the riverside villages. In the afternoon, visit local fruit orchards and try exotic fruits. Experience the local way of life by cycling through the peaceful countryside. As the evening sets in, return to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy a rooftop dinner overlooking the city.
Mekong Delta boat ride: Cost: $40, Time spent: Full day
Traditional Vietnamese lunch: Cost: $20, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Cycling in the countryside: Cost: $10, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Rooftop dinner: Cost: $70, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Pho 2000, known for their flavorful pho noodles and delicious banh mi sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 80,000 VND ($3.50) per person.
Indulge in a delightful lunch at Nha Hang Ngon, where you can savor a variety of Vietnamese street food dishes in a charming courtyard setting. Average cost for a meal is about 200,000 VND ($8.70) per person.
For a romantic dinner, head to Chill Sky Bar, located on the top floor of a skyscraper. Enjoy breathtaking views of Ho Chi Minh City while dining on international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 600,000 VND ($26) per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, consider visiting the city of Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Halong Bay on Land." Explore the stunning limestone karsts, take a boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes, and visit the ancient temples in the area. Another hidden gem is Phu Quoc Island, known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Relax on the beach, go snorkeling, or visit the local fish sauce factories. These destinations provide a tranquil escape from the bustling cities and offer a glimpse into the natural beauty of Vietnam.