A Week in Vietnam: Exploring the Best of the Country

Friday, October 20: Hanoi

Begin your Vietnam adventure in the capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, stroll through the charming Old Quarter, with its narrow streets and bustling markets. Visit the historic Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. In the afternoon, delve into the country's history at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. As the evening approaches, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show.

• Old Quarter: Free, 3 hours
• Hoan Kiem Lake: Free, 1 hour
• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: VND 40,000 ($1.75), 2 hours
• Water Puppet Show: VND 100,000 ($4.35), 1 hour

Saturday, October 21: Halong Bay

Embark on a breathtaking cruise in Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the morning exploring the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. Enjoy a seafood lunch on board and visit the mysterious Thien Cung Cave. Cruise back to the harbor and return to Hanoi in the evening.

• Halong Bay Cruise: VND 1,500,000 ($65) - VND 3,000,000 ($130), 8 hours
• Thien Cung Cave: VND 100,000 ($4.35), 1 hour

Sunday, October 22: Hoi An

Fly from Hanoi to the charming ancient town of Hoi An. Spend the morning exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Town, known for its well-preserved architecture, colorful lanterns, and vibrant markets. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and visit the nearby Tra Que Herb Village. End the day with a visit to the beautiful Japanese Covered Bridge.

• Hoi An Old Town: VND 120,000 ($5.20), 3 hours
• Boat Ride on Thu Bon River: VND 150,000 ($6.50), 2 hours
• Tra Que Herb Village: VND 50,000 ($2.17), 1 hour
• Japanese Covered Bridge: VND 30,000 ($1.30), 1 hour

Monday, October 23: Hue

Travel from Hoi An to the imperial city of Hue. Begin the day by exploring the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO site, and learn about the city's royal history. Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and take a scenic boat ride along the Perfume River. In the afternoon, explore the elaborate tombs of the Nguyen Emperors, such as the Tomb of Khai Dinh.

• Imperial Citadel: VND 150,000 ($6.50), 3 hours
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Free, 1 hour
• Boat Ride on Perfume River: VND 150,000 ($6.50), 2 hours
• Tomb of Khai Dinh: VND 100,000 ($4.35), 2 hours

Tuesday, October 24: Ho Chi Minh City

Fly from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon). Start the day with a visit to the historic Reunification Palace, followed by a tour of the War Remnants Museum. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Ben Thanh Market and indulge in delicious street food. As the evening approaches, head to the Bitexco Financial Tower for panoramic views of the city.

• Reunification Palace: VND 40,000 ($1.75), 2 hours
• War Remnants Museum: VND 40,000 ($1.75), 2 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: Free, 2 hours
• Bitexco Financial Tower: VND 200,000 ($8.70), 1 hour

Wednesday, October 25: Mekong Delta

Embark on a fascinating day trip to the Mekong Delta. Cruise along the scenic waterways, visit local villages, and learn about the region's agricultural practices. Enjoy a traditional lunch and try tropical fruits. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon.

• Mekong Delta Day Trip: VND 800,000 ($35), 8 hours

Thursday, October 26: Nha Trang

Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to the coastal city of Nha Trang. Spend the morning relaxing on the stunning beaches and swimming in the clear turquoise waters. In the afternoon, explore the Po Nagar Cham Towers, a complex of ancient Hindu temples. End the day with a rejuvenating mud bath at one of the local spas.

• Nha Trang Beach: Free, 3 hours
• Po Nagar Cham Towers: VND 22,000 ($0.95), 2 hours
• Mud Bath: VND 200,000 ($8.70), 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those seeking off the beaten path experiences, head to the mountainous region of Sapa to trek through terraced rice fields and visit ethnic minority villages. Another hidden gem is the town of Dalat, known for its cool climate, beautiful lakes, and French colonial architecture.

Check hotel and flight prices for your Vietnam adventure here.