Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant and bustling metropolis of Vietnam. In the morning, explore the historic landmarks such as the Reunification Palace and Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral. Enjoy a delicious local lunch at Ben Thanh Market. In the afternoon, experience the city's dynamic energy by visiting the War Remnants Museum and take a stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street. In the evening, head to Bui Vien Street, the city's famous backpacker area, for lively nightlife and entertainment.
Reunification Palace: VND 40,000, 2 hours
Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral: Free, 30 minutes
Ben Thanh Market: VND 50,000, 1 hour
War Remnants Museum: VND 40,000, 2 hours
Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Free, 1 hour
Bui Vien Street: Cost varies, evening
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Lunch Lady, known for its authentic Vietnamese street food. Average cost for a meal is about 50,000 VND per person.
For lunch, visit Nha Hang Ngon, a popular restaurant offering a wide variety of Vietnamese dishes in a cozy setting. Average cost for a meal is about 150,000 VND per person.
In the evening, dine at Quan Ut Ut, a renowned barbecue restaurant serving mouthwatering American-style meats. Average cost for a meal is about 300,000 VND per person.
Wednesday, October 11: Mekong Delta
Embark on a full-day trip to the Mekong Delta, known as the "Rice Bowl" of Vietnam. In the morning, take a boat ride along the Mekong River and explore the vibrant floating markets. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local village. In the afternoon, visit fruit orchards, learn about coconut candy production, and take a cycling tour through the countryside. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.
Mekong Delta Tour: VND 1,200,000, full day
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near the Mekong Delta is Pho 24, where you can enjoy a flavorful bowl of traditional Vietnamese pho. Average cost for a meal is about 50,000 VND per person.
For lunch, try out Cuc Gach Quan, a charming restaurant known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Their set menu offers a variety of local dishes at an average cost of 250,000 VND per person.
In the evening, head to Quan Ut Ut for a delicious BBQ dinner. This American-style restaurant serves mouthwatering ribs and briskets. Average cost for a meal is about 500,000 VND per person.
Thursday, October 12: Da Nang
Fly to Da Nang, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. In the morning, relax at My Khe Beach, also known as China Beach, and soak up the sun. Afternoon activities include exploring the Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone hills with caves and pagodas, and visiting the iconic Dragon Bridge. In the evening, experience the lively atmosphere of the Han River night market and enjoy fresh seafood.
Flight to Da Nang: Prices vary, 1 hour
My Khe Beach: Free, half day
Marble Mountains: VND 40,000, 2 hours
Dragon Bridge: Free, 30 minutes
Han River night market: Cost varies, evening
Friday, October 13: Hoi An
Travel to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ancient town. In the morning, explore the charming streets, lined with traditional houses, temples, and shops. Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Community. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and witness the beautiful lanterns illuminating the city at night.
Transport to Hoi An: Prices vary, 1 hour
Hoi An Ancient Town: VND 120,000, half day
Japanese Covered Bridge: VND 20,000, 30 minutes
Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Community: VND 20,000, 1 hour
Boat ride on Thu Bon River: VND 120,000, 1 hour
Restaurants
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Morning Glory Restaurant, known for its delicious Vietnamese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
Indulge in a tasty lunch at Mango Mango, a popular waterfront restaurant offering a fusion of Asian flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 250,000 VND per person.
Treat yourselves to a memorable dinner at Cargo Club, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Hoi An. Average cost for a meal is about 400,000 VND per person.
Saturday, October 14: Ha Long Bay
Fly to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam's most famous natural wonders. In the morning, embark on a cruise through the limestone karsts and emerald waters of the bay. Enjoy a seafood lunch on board and visit the stunning caves. Take part in kayaking or swimming activities. In the evening, relax on the deck and witness the breathtaking sunset over the bay.
Flight to Ha Long Bay: Prices vary, 2 hours
Ha Long Bay Cruise: VND 1,500,000, full day
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Breakfast Club, located in the heart of Ha Long Bay. Choose from a variety of options including eggs, pancakes, and Vietnamese specialties. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Seafood Paradise: Indulge in a mouthwatering seafood lunch at Seafood Paradise, overlooking the stunning Ha Long Bay. Feast on the freshest catch of the day, from succulent prawns to grilled fish. The average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Sunset Grill: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Sunset Grill, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Ha Long Bay. Savor a delectable range of international and Vietnamese dishes. The average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Sunday, October 15: Hanoi
Travel to Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. In the morning, visit the historic Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. Explore the bustling Old Quarter and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, a Confucian temple and the first national university of Vietnam. In the evening, experience the famous water puppet show, a unique Vietnamese art form.
Transport to Hanoi: Prices vary, 3 hours
Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Free, 1 hour
Old Quarter: Free, half day
Temple of Literature: VND 30,000, 1 hour
Water puppet show: VND 100,000, evening
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Note Coffee & Tea Shop, a charming cafe in the heart of Hanoi. They offer a variety of delicious breakfast options such as pancakes, sandwiches, and traditional Vietnamese coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 80,000 VND per person.
For lunch, try Quan An Ngon, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine. They serve a wide range of dishes including pho, spring rolls, and grilled meats. Average cost for a meal is about 150,000 VND per person.
For dinner, visit Highway4 Restaurant & Bar, a trendy spot offering a fusion of Vietnamese and international flavors. Enjoy their signature dishes like catfish spring rolls and grilled pork skewers. Average cost for a meal is about 250,000 VND per person.
Monday, October 16: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Explore some of the hidden gems and local favorites in Vietnam. Indulge in a spa day and enjoy traditional Vietnamese massages and treatments. For adventure seekers, take a motorbike tour through the countryside to visit local villages and experience the authentic rural life. End the day with a rooftop bar crawl in Ho Chi Minh City, enjoying the city lights and vibrant nightlife.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, an underground tunnel network used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Another hidden gem is Phu Quoc Island, known for its pristine beaches and stunning sunsets. Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes and explore the local markets to discover unique ingredients. Lastly, try the local street food, such as banh mi sandwiches and pho, for an authentic culinary adventure.