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 in Vietnam: Exploring the Land of Natural Beauty

Saturday, November 4: Ho Chi Minh City

Start your trip by exploring the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon. In the morning, visit the historic Reunification Palace, a symbol of the city's past. Afterward, wander through the vibrant Ben Thanh Market, where you can browse for souvenirs and sample local delicacies for lunch. In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll in the scenic Tao Dan Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. As the evening sets in, head to Bui Vien Street, a lively area known for its bars, restaurants, and nightlife.

  • Reunification Palace: Entrance fee: $5 | Estimated time spent: 2 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Free entry | Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Tao Dan Park: Free entry | Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Bui Vien Street: Cost varies | Estimated time spent: Evening
Sunday, November 5: Hoi An

Embark on a journey to the charming ancient town of Hoi An. In the morning, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site by wandering through its narrow streets lined with beautifully preserved buildings. Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and discover the rich cultural heritage at the Hoi An Museum. Enjoy a delicious local lunch at one of the riverside restaurants. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and admire the picturesque countryside. As the evening approaches, immerse yourself in the magical ambiance of the lantern-lit streets and indulge in a mouthwatering seafood dinner.

  • Japanese Covered Bridge: Entrance fee: $5 | Estimated time spent: 1 hour
  • Hoi An Museum: Entrance fee: $2 | Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Boat ride on Thu Bon River: Cost varies | Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Lantern-lit streets and dinner: Cost varies | Estimated time spent: Evening
Monday, November 6: Hue

Discover the imperial city of Hue, known for its historical significance. In the morning, visit the magnificent Hue Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its various palaces and temples. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, take a boat trip along the Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic symbol of Hue. As the evening sets in, savor the flavors of Hue's renowned cuisine with a royal dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Hue Citadel: Entrance fee: $6 | Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: Entrance fee: Free | Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Boat trip on Perfume River: Cost varies | Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Royal dinner: Cost varies | Estimated time spent: Evening
Tuesday, November 7: Halong Bay

Embark on a mesmerizing journey to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. In the morning, board a traditional junk boat and cruise along the emerald waters, surrounded by limestone karsts and picturesque islands. Enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch on the boat. In the afternoon, explore the awe-inspiring caves and grottoes, such as Sung Sot Cave and Thien Cung Cave. As the evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner on the boat while admiring the stunning sunset over the bay.

  • Halong Bay cruise: Cost varies | Estimated time spent: Full day
  • Sung Sot Cave: Entrance fee: $5 | Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Thien Cung Cave: Entrance fee: $3 | Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, November 8: Hanoi

Conclude your trip in the vibrant capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, visit the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and pay respects to the revered leader. Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university. Enjoy a delightful Vietnamese lunch at a local eatery. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the iconic Ngoc Son Temple. As the evening sets in, savor the flavors of Hanoi's street food while exploring the bustling night markets.

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Entrance fee: Free | Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Temple of Literature: Entrance fee: $2 | Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Free entry | Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Night market and street food: Cost varies | Estimated time spent: Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Vietnam, make sure to venture off the beaten path and discover some hidden gems. In Hanoi, visit the quirky Train Street, where trains pass through a narrow residential street. Take a motorbike tour through the countryside in Hue, exploring rural villages and enjoying the scenic landscapes. Experience the local life in Hoi An by participating in a cooking class and learning to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes. Don't forget to try the delicious street food stalls found in every city, where you can taste authentic Vietnamese flavors.

Check hotel and flight prices 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