Exploring Vietnam: 7-Day Itinerary

Monday, February 12: Hanoi

Welcome to Vietnam! Start your adventure in the capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, visit the historic Hoan Kiem Lake and explore the nearby Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets filled with shops and street food vendors. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, and learn about the country's rich history. As the evening sets in, head to the bustling Dong Xuan Market to experience the local culture and try some delicious Vietnamese cuisine.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Entrance is free, spend around 2 hours
  • Old Quarter: Free to explore, spend around 3 hours
  • Temple of Literature: Entrance fee is 30,000 VND (approximately $1.30), spend around 2 hours
  • Dong Xuan Market: Free to enter, spend around 2 hours
Tuesday, February 13: Halong Bay

Embark on a breathtaking cruise to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and limestone karsts. Spend the morning cruising through the bay, enjoying the stunning scenery. In the afternoon, explore the mesmerizing caves and go kayaking or swimming in the crystal-clear waters. As the evening approaches, witness a magical sunset over the bay before returning to Hanoi.

  • Halong Bay Cruise: Prices vary depending on the type of cruise, starting from $100 per person, spend around 8 hours
Wednesday, February 14: Hue

Fly to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. In the morning, explore the UNESCO-listed Imperial City, a walled fortress and palace complex. Discover the rich history and architecture of the Nguyen Dynasty. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and enjoy the scenic views. As the evening sets in, wander through the vibrant Dong Ba Market and try some local delicacies.

  • Imperial City: Entrance fee is 150,000 VND (approximately $6.50), spend around 3 hours
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: Entrance is free, spend around 2 hours
  • Dong Ba Market: Free to enter, spend around 2 hours
Thursday, February 15: Hoi An

Travel to the charming town of Hoi An, known for its well-preserved ancient streets and traditional architecture. Start your day by exploring the Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the narrow lanes filled with lanterns and visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation. In the afternoon, take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes. As the evening approaches, enjoy a boat ride along the Thu Bon River while admiring the illuminated lanterns.

  • Ancient Town: Entrance fee is 120,000 VND (approximately $5.20), spend around 3 hours
  • Cooking Class: Prices vary depending on the class, starting from $30 per person, spend around 3 hours
  • Boat Ride: Prices vary depending on the duration and type of boat, starting from $5 per person, spend around 2 hours
Friday, February 16: Nha Trang

Fly to Nha Trang, a coastal city famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. Spend the morning relaxing on the beautiful sandy beaches and swimming in the warm waters of the South China Sea. In the afternoon, visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers, ancient Hindu temples located on a hill overlooking the city. As the evening sets in, explore the bustling night market and try some delicious seafood.

  • Beach Time: Free to enjoy, spend around 4 hours
  • Po Nagar Cham Towers: Entrance fee is 22,000 VND (approximately $0.95), spend around 2 hours
  • Night Market: Free to enter, spend around 2 hours
Saturday, February 17: Ho Chi Minh City

Travel to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the largest city in Vietnam. Start your day by visiting the historic Reunification Palace, the site where Vietnam's war ended. Explore the War Remnants Museum to learn about the country's war history. In the afternoon, stroll along Dong Khoi Street, known for its high-end shops and colonial buildings. As the evening approaches, visit the bustling Ben Thanh Market to experience the local culture and taste some delicious street food.

  • Reunification Palace: Entrance fee is 40,000 VND (approximately $1.75), spend around 2 hours
  • War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee is 40,000 VND (approximately $1.75), spend around 2 hours
  • Dong Khoi Street: Free to explore, spend around 2 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Free to enter, spend around 2 hours
Sunday, February 18: Mekong Delta

Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, a vast network of rivers, swamps, and islands. In the morning, explore the colorful floating markets of Cai Be or Cai Rang. Cruise along the Mekong River and witness the vibrant local life. Enjoy a delicious lunch of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. In the afternoon, visit a local fruit orchard and try some exotic fruits. As the evening sets in, return to Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Floating Market: Prices vary depending on the tour, starting from $15 per person, spend around 4 hours
  • Mekong River Cruise: Prices vary depending on the tour, starting from $20 per person, spend around 4 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Hanoi, don't miss out on visiting the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in the city, located on a small island in West Lake. In Hue, explore the serene Thuy Tien Lake and the abandoned water park, a fascinating place for urban exploration. In Hoi An, take a bike ride to the peaceful Tra Que Vegetable Village and learn about organic farming practices. These hidden gems will give you a unique perspective on Vietnam's culture and natural beauty.

Check out Kayak for hotel and flight prices to plan your perfect Vietnam adventure!

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