Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 52 travelers

A Week in Vietnam: Exploring the Rich Culture and Natural Beauty

Monday, December 4: Hanoi

Begin your adventure in Vietnam by arriving in Hanoi, the capital city. In the morning, take a cyclo tour through the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, where you'll discover bustling markets, ancient temples, and colonial architecture. In the afternoon, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and explore the serene grounds of the Temple of Literature. End your day with a traditional water puppet show, a unique form of Vietnamese entertainment.

  • Old Quarter Cyclo Tour: Approx. $10, 2 hours
  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Free admission, 1 hour
  • Temple of Literature: Approx. $2, 1 hour
  • Water Puppet Show: Approx. $5, 1 hour
Tuesday, December 5: Ha Long Bay

Embark on a breathtaking cruise through the stunning limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay. Spend the morning exploring the hidden caves, swimming in the emerald waters, and kayaking around the karst formations. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board and take in the scenic beauty of the bay. In the afternoon, visit a floating fishing village to learn about the local way of life. Witness a mesmerizing sunset over the bay before returning to Hanoi in the evening.

  • Ha Long Bay Cruise: Approx. $100, full day
  • Kayaking: Included in cruise cost, 1-2 hours
  • Floating Fishing Village: Approx. $5, 1 hour
Wednesday, December 6: Hoi An

Fly from Hanoi to Hoi An, a charming ancient town known for its well-preserved architecture and rich cultural heritage. Spend the morning exploring the narrow streets lined with old merchant houses, colorful lanterns, and bustling markets. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, the iconic symbol of Hoi An, and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee at a local cafe. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River to visit the pottery village of Thanh Ha. End your day with a lantern-lit evening walk along the riverside.

  • Japanese Covered Bridge: Approx. $5, 1 hour
  • Boat Ride to Thanh Ha: Approx. $10, 2 hours
  • Lantern Walk: Free, 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 7: Ho Chi Minh City

Fly from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Start your day by visiting the historic Reunification Palace, followed by a visit to the War Remnants Museum to gain insights into Vietnam's tumultuous past. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Ben Thanh Market and indulge in delicious Vietnamese street food. Take a stroll along the famous Dong Khoi Street and marvel at the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office.

  • Reunification Palace: Approx. $2, 1-2 hours
  • War Remnants Museum: Approx. $2, 1-2 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Free admission, 1-2 hours
  • Notre Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office: Free admission, 1 hour
Friday, December 8: Mekong Delta

Embark on an unforgettable day trip to the Mekong Delta, a maze of waterways and lush green rice fields. Start your day by cruising along the Mekong River and visiting the bustling Cai Be floating market. Explore the local fruit orchards and enjoy tropical fruits at a riverside garden. Experience the traditional way of life by visiting a local village and trying your hand at making coconut candy. End your day with a sampan ride through the narrow canals before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Mekong Delta Day Trip: Approx. $50, full day
  • Cai Be Floating Market: Free admission, 1-2 hours
  • Local Village Visit: Approx. $5, 1-2 hours
  • Sampan Ride: Included in tour cost, 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Vietnam, don't miss the chance to visit the ancient town of Hoi An during the Full Moon Lantern Festival, held on the 14th day of each lunar month. Witness the town come alive with vibrant lanterns, traditional music, and cultural performances. Another hidden gem is the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, an underground network used during the Vietnam War. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and witness the ingenious construction of the tunnels.

For off-the-beaten-path adventures, head to Ha Giang Province in northern Vietnam. Explore the breathtaking landscapes, terraced rice fields, and ethnic minority communities. Trekking and motorbike tours are popular activities in this region. Don't forget to savor the local cuisine, such as pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls, as you immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Vietnam.

To check hotel and flight prices, 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