A Week of Relaxation in Vietnam

Day 1: Friday, October 20 - Hanoi

Start your trip in the bustling city of Hanoi. In the morning, take a relaxing walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, a tranquil spot in the heart of the city. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and visit Ngoc Son Temple located on a small island in the lake. In the afternoon, explore the charming Old Quarter with its narrow streets filled with shops and street food vendors. As the evening sets in, indulge in a traditional Vietnamese massage at one of the local spas.

• Hoan Kiem Lake: Entrance is free, estimated time spent 1-2 hours
• Ngoc Son Temple: Entrance fee around 30,000 VND ($1.3), estimated time spent 1 hour
• Old Quarter: No entrance fee, estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Traditional Massage: Cost varies depending on the spa, estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Day 2: Saturday, October 21 - Ha Long Bay

Embark on a cruise trip to the breathtaking Ha Long Bay. Spend the morning exploring the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. Enjoy activities like kayaking, swimming, and visiting the amazing caves. In the afternoon, relax on the sundeck of the cruise ship, taking in the picturesque scenery. As the evening sets in, savor a delicious seafood dinner while enjoying the sunset over the bay.

• Ha Long Bay Cruise: Cost varies depending on the package, estimated time spent full day

Day 3: Sunday, October 22 - Hoi An

Travel to the charming ancient town of Hoi An. In the morning, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town with its well-preserved architecture, colorful lanterns, and riverside cafes. Take a leisurely bicycle ride to the nearby An Bang Beach in the afternoon, where you can relax on the sandy shore or take a dip in the sea. As the evening sets in, enjoy a lantern-lit boat ride along the Thu Bon River.

• Hoi An Old Town: Entrance fee around 120,000 VND ($5.2), estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• An Bang Beach: Free entrance, estimated time spent half-day
• Lantern Boat Ride: Cost varies depending on the operator, estimated time spent 1 hour

Day 4: Monday, October 23 - Nha Trang

Head to the coastal city of Nha Trang known for its beautiful beaches. Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sand of Nha Trang Beach, taking a refreshing swim in the warm waters. In the afternoon, visit the Vinpearl Land amusement park, located on an island just off the coast. Enjoy thrilling rides and take advantage of the water park facilities. As the evening sets in, unwind with a sunset cocktail at one of the beachfront bars.

• Nha Trang Beach: Free entrance, estimated time spent half-day
• Vinpearl Land: Entrance fee around 800,000 VND ($34.7), estimated time spent half-day
• Sunset Cocktail: Cost varies depending on the bar, estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Day 5: Tuesday, October 24 - Da Lat

Travel to the picturesque hill station of Da Lat, known for its pleasant climate and natural beauty. In the morning, visit the stunning Xuan Huong Lake and enjoy a leisurely walk around its shores. Explore the vibrant flower and vegetable gardens in the afternoon, where you can immerse yourself in the colorful blooms. As the evening sets in, visit the famous Crazy House, a unique architectural marvel.

• Xuan Huong Lake: Free entrance, estimated time spent 1-2 hours
• Flower and Vegetable Gardens: Entrance fee around 30,000 VND ($1.3), estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Crazy House: Entrance fee around 50,000 VND ($2.2), estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Day 6: Wednesday, October 25 - Phu Quoc Island

Head to the tropical paradise of Phu Quoc Island. Spend the morning relaxing on the pristine beaches, soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant underwater world by going snorkeling or scuba diving. As the evening sets in, indulge in a seafood feast at one of the local beachfront restaurants.

• Phu Quoc Beaches: Free entrance, estimated time spent full day
• Snorkeling/Scuba Diving: Cost varies depending on the operator, estimated time spent half-day
• Seafood Feast: Cost varies depending on the restaurant, estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Day 7: Thursday, October 26 - Ho Chi Minh City

End your trip in the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh City. In the morning, explore the historic Reunification Palace and learn about Vietnam's past. Take a stroll through the bustling Ben Thanh Market in the afternoon, where you can shop for souvenirs and try local delicacies. As the evening sets in, enjoy a relaxing river cruise along the Saigon River, taking in the city skyline.

• Reunification Palace: Entrance fee around 40,000 VND ($1.7), estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: No entrance fee, estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• River Cruise: Cost varies depending on the operator, estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a truly relaxing experience in Vietnam, consider visiting the serene countryside of Mai Chau. Explore the lush paddy fields, meet friendly locals, and indulge in delicious home-cooked meals. Another off-the-beaten-path destination is Bai Xep, a secluded fishing village near Quy Nhon. Enjoy the tranquility of the pristine beach and sample fresh seafood at the local restaurants. These hidden gems will provide a peaceful escape from the crowds and allow you to unwind in a serene setting.

Check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Vietnam here.