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

Exploring the Best of Vietnam: 7-Day Itinerary

Saturday, August 26: Ho Chi Minh City

Start your trip in the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh. In the morning, visit the iconic Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network used during the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Ben Thanh Market, a bustling hub of local food, handicrafts, and souvenirs. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along Nguyen Hue Walking Street and experience the lively atmosphere and street performances.

  • Cu Chi Tunnels: Cost estimate - $10, Time spent - 3 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Cost estimate - Depends on purchases, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, August 27: Hanoi

Travel to the capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi. Start your morning with a visit to the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and explore the nearby Presidential Palace and One Pillar Pagoda. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture at the Temple of Literature, a beautiful Confucian temple and the country's first university. In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show, a unique art form native to Northern Vietnam.

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Temple of Literature: Cost estimate - $2, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Water Puppet Show: Cost estimate - $5-10, Time spent - 1 hour
Monday, August 28: Halong Bay

Embark on a scenic drive to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning limestone islands. Spend the morning cruising on a traditional junk boat and marvel at the breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board. In the afternoon, explore the mesmerizing caves and go kayaking or swimming in the emerald waters. End the day with a picturesque sunset over the bay.

  • Halong Bay Cruise: Cost estimate - $100-150, Time spent - Full day
  • Cave Exploration: Cost estimate - Included in cruise package, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Kayaking/Swimming: Cost estimate - Included in cruise package, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, August 29: Hoi An

Fly from Hanoi to Hoi An, a charming ancient town known for its well-preserved architecture and lantern-filled streets. Start your day by exploring the Ancient Town, a UNESCO Heritage site, with its narrow alleys and beautiful merchant houses. In the afternoon, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An, and enjoy a boat ride along the Thu Bon River. End your day with a visit to a local tailor and get custom-made clothing.

  • Ancient Town: Cost estimate - $5, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Japanese Covered Bridge: Cost estimate - $1, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Boat Ride on Thu Bon River: Cost estimate - $5-10, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Wednesday, August 30: Hue

Take a scenic drive from Hoi An to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Start your morning with a visit to the Imperial City, a vast complex of palaces and temples from the Nguyen Dynasty. In the afternoon, explore the serene Thien Mu Pagoda and take a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River. Don't miss the chance to try local specialties like bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) for dinner.

  • Imperial City: Cost estimate - $6, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Dragon Boat Cruise: Cost estimate - $10-15, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Thursday, August 31: Nha Trang

Fly from Hue to Nha Trang, a coastal city known for its pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife. Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sands of Nha Trang Beach and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers, ancient Hindu temples dating back to the 7th century. Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants and experience the energetic nightlife.

  • Nha Trang Beach: Free, Time spent - Half day
  • Po Nagar Cham Towers: Cost estimate - $2, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Seafood Dinner: Cost estimate - $10-20, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, September 1: Mekong Delta

Travel from Nha Trang to the Mekong Delta region, known as the "rice basket of Vietnam." Embark on a boat tour through the winding canals and lush landscapes of the delta. Visit local villages, enjoy fresh tropical fruits, and learn about the traditional way of life in this fertile region. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant floating markets and try your hand at rowing a sampan boat. End the day with a delicious dinner of regional specialties.

  • Mekong Delta Boat Tour: Cost estimate - $20-30, Time spent - Full day
  • Floating Market Visit: Cost estimate - Included in boat tour, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Regional Cuisine Dinner: Cost estimate - $10-15, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

In Vietnam, don't miss the chance to explore the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the charming lantern-making village in Hoi An, where you can learn the art of lantern-making from skilled craftsmen. Take a motorbike tour through the countryside of Hue and discover the rural beauty of Vietnam. Enjoy a homestay experience in the Mekong Delta and get a glimpse into the daily life of local farmers and fishermen. These off-the-beaten-path attractions will give you a deeper understanding of the country's culture and traditions.

Check prices for flights and hotels in Vietnam on Kayak.

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