Welcome to Vietnam! Begin your honeymoon in the charming capital city of Hanoi. Start your morning with a visit to the Hoan Kiem Lake, a serene oasis in the heart of the city. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake and then head to the nearby Ngoc Son Temple. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets and vibrant markets. As the evening approaches, take a romantic stroll along the iconic Long Bien Bridge, offering stunning views of the city.
Hoan Kiem Lake: Entrance is free, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Old Quarter: Free to explore, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Long Bien Bridge: Free to visit, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Pho Co, located near Hoan Kiem Lake. This cozy cafe offers traditional Vietnamese breakfast options like pho and banh mi sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
For lunch, head to Cha Ca La Vong, a famous restaurant in the Old Quarter known for its specialty dish, cha ca. This dish features grilled fish served with noodles, herbs, and peanuts. Average cost for a meal is about 200,000 VND per person.
In the evening, enjoy a romantic dinner at Duong's Restaurant. Situated in a beautifully restored French villa, this restaurant offers a fusion of Vietnamese and Western cuisine. Be sure to try their signature dishes like the cha ca and crispy spring rolls. Average cost for a meal is about 500,000 VND per person.
Day 2: Halong Bay Cruise
Embark on a breathtaking cruise experience in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay. Spend the morning cruising through the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch on board the boat. In the afternoon, explore the breathtaking Thien Cung Cave, also known as the Heavenly Palace Cave. As the sun sets, relax on the deck while enjoying a romantic dinner amidst the enchanting scenery of Halong Bay.
Halong Bay Cruise: Prices vary depending on the package chosen. Check here for the best prices. Estimated time: Full day
A charming café located near Halong Bay, offering a range of breakfast options such as freshly baked pastries and Vietnamese coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
A seafood restaurant situated on a floating platform, serving delicious local dishes made from the freshest catch of the day. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
A romantic beachfront restaurant with stunning views of Halong Bay, serving a variety of international and Vietnamese cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Day 3: Explore Hoi An
Fly from Hanoi to Hoi An, a charming coastal town known for its well-preserved ancient architecture. Start your day by exploring the UNESCO-listed Hoi An Ancient Town, with its narrow streets and beautifully preserved buildings. Take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River in the afternoon and visit the traditional craft villages in the surrounding area. As the evening sets in, release lanterns into the river for good luck and enjoy a romantic dinner by the waterfront.
Hoi An Ancient Town: Entrance fee: 120,000 VND (approximately $5.2), estimated time: 2-3 hours
Boat ride on Thu Bon River: Prices vary depending on the tour chosen. Estimated time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast at Morning Glory Restaurant: Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Morning Glory Restaurant, located in the heart of Hoi An. Indulge in their traditional Vietnamese breakfast options such as banh mi and pho. The average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
Lunch at Cargo Club Restaurant: Head to Cargo Club Restaurant for a delicious lunch experience in Hoi An. This charming restaurant offers a wide range of international and Vietnamese dishes. Try their famous cao lau noodles or go for a refreshing salad. The average cost for a meal is about 300,000 VND per person.
Dinner at Mango Rooms Restaurant: For a memorable dinner, visit Mango Rooms Restaurant. This vibrant eatery combines traditional Vietnamese flavors with a modern twist. From their mouthwatering seafood dishes to their innovative fusion creations, you're in for a treat. The average cost for a meal is about 500,000 VND per person.
Day 4: Mekong Delta Adventure
Travel to the vibrant Mekong Delta region, known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional villages and experiencing the bustling floating markets. Take a boat ride through the maze of canals and enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local specialties. In the afternoon, explore the lush fruit orchards and enjoy tropical fruit tasting. As the day comes to an end, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the Mekong River.
Mekong Delta Tour: Prices vary depending on the tour chosen. Check here for the best prices. Estimated time: Full day
Day 5: Discover Ho Chi Minh City
Fly from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the bustling metropolis of Vietnam. Begin your day by visiting the historic Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum to gain insights into Vietnam's turbulent past. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for local handicrafts and sample delicious street food. As the evening approaches, take a romantic walk along the Saigon Riverfront and enjoy a rooftop dinner with panoramic city views.
Ben Thanh Market: Free to visit, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Saigon Riverfront: Free to visit, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at The Vintage Emporium, a charming breakfast spot known for its cozy ambiance and delicious food. Indulge in their famous Vietnamese-style breakfast bowl with fresh ingredients and a steaming cup of gourmet coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
For lunch, head to Nha Hang Ngon, a popular restaurant offering a wide variety of Vietnamese street food favorites. Enjoy dishes like fresh spring rolls, pho, and banh mi, all made with the finest local produce. Average cost for a meal is about 150,000 VND per person.
For an unforgettable dinner experience, dine at The Deck Saigon, a stylish waterfront restaurant overlooking the Saigon River. Savor their exquisite fusion menu featuring Vietnamese and international flavors, while enjoying the stunning city skyline. Average cost for a meal is about 500,000 VND per person.
Day 6: Cu Chi Tunnels and Departure
On your final day, embark on a journey to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, used during the Vietnam War. Explore the underground network, learn about the guerrilla warfare tactics, and gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam's history. After the tour, return to Ho Chi Minh City for some last-minute shopping and souvenirs. Bid farewell to Vietnam as you catch your flight back home, cherishing the memories of your honeymoon adventure.
Cu Chi Tunnels: Entrance fee: 110,000 VND (approximately $4.8), estimated time: 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Vietnam on your honeymoon, don't miss the chance to visit the romantic Lantern Town of Hoi An. Take a bicycle ride to the nearby Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you can join a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes. Another hidden gem is the Bai Dinh Pagoda in Ninh Binh, a magnificent complex featuring stunning architecture and panoramic views. End your trip with a visit to the serene Phu Quoc Island, known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.