Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

A Week Exploring the Vibrant Cities of Vietnam

Saturday, November 4: Hanoi

Begin your Vietnam adventure in the bustling capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, visit the historic Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can take a leisurely stroll and admire the iconic red bridge leading to Ngoc Son Temple. Dive into Vietnamese history and culture with a trip to the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in the afternoon. As evening falls, explore the vibrant Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and delicious street food.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Entrance fee - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Ngoc Son Temple: Entrance fee - 30,000 VND (approx. $1.30), Time spent - 1 hour
  • Imperial Citadel of Thang Long: Entrance fee - 30,000 VND (approx. $1.30), Time spent - 2 hours
  • Old Quarter: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Sunday, November 5: Halong Bay

Embark on a day trip to the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site - Halong Bay. Morning departure from Hanoi to Halong Bay, where you'll board a traditional junk boat and cruise along the emerald waters. Explore the limestone caves, kayak through hidden lagoons, and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board. Return to Hanoi in the evening.

  • Halong Bay Day Trip: Estimated cost - $40-100 per person, Time spent - Full day
Monday, November 6: Hue

Take a flight from Hanoi to Hue, a city rich in history and imperial architecture. Start your day with a visit to the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its magnificent palaces, temples, and gardens. In the afternoon, cruise along the Perfume River and visit the Thien Mu Pagoda. End the day with a relaxing walk by the Truong Tien Bridge, admiring the illuminated cityscape.

  • Imperial City: Entrance fee - 150,000 VND (approx. $6.50), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Truong Tien Bridge: Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Tuesday, November 7: Hoi An

Travel from Hue to the charming town of Hoi An, known for its well-preserved ancient architecture. Spend the morning exploring the UNESCO-protected Old Town, with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and unique blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese influences. In the afternoon, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and immerse yourself in the vibrant local market. Enjoy an evening stroll along the Thu Bon River, adorned with beautiful lanterns.

  • Hoi An Old Town: Entrance fee - 120,000 VND (approx. $5.20), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Japanese Covered Bridge: Entrance fee - 30,000 VND (approx. $1.30), Time spent - 1 hour
  • Local Market: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Thu Bon River: Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Wednesday, November 8: Ho Chi Minh City

Fly from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon), Vietnam's largest city. Start your day with a visit to the War Remnants Museum, where you can learn about the country's tumultuous past. Explore the historic Reunification Palace and the Notre Dame Cathedral in the afternoon. As evening approaches, indulge in the vibrant nightlife of the bustling Ben Thanh Market area.

  • War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee - 40,000 VND (approx. $1.70), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Reunification Palace: Entrance fee - 40,000 VND (approx. $1.70), Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Notre Dame Cathedral: Free, Time spent - 30 minutes
  • Ben Thanh Market: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Thursday, November 9: Mekong Delta

Venture outside the city to the picturesque Mekong Delta region. Embark on a boat tour along the Mekong River, exploring the vibrant floating markets, tropical fruit orchards, and coconut candy factories. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional villages and interacting with friendly locals. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon.

  • Mekong Delta Day Tour: Estimated cost - $15-30 per person, Time spent - Full day
Friday, November 10: Nha Trang

Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang, a coastal resort city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. Spend the morning relaxing on the sandy shores or indulging in water sports. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Po Nagar Cham Towers, offering panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a seafood feast at one of the local restaurants and experience the energetic atmosphere along Tran Phu Street in the evening.

  • Po Nagar Cham Towers: Entrance fee - 22,000 VND (approx. $1), Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Tran Phu Street: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience in Hanoi, head to the Train Street where you can witness trains passing through narrow residential streets. Enjoy a cup of traditional Vietnamese egg coffee at a local café. In Hoi An, explore the nearby countryside by bicycle, visiting local villages and rice paddies. Don't miss out on trying Cao Lau, a famous local dish in Hoi An. In Ho Chi Minh City, escape the hustle and bustle by visiting the peaceful Jade Emperor Pagoda and taste delicious street food in the vibrant District 4.

To check hotel and flight prices for your Vietnam trip, click here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version