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

7-Day Itinerary in Vietnam

Monday, December 25: Hanoi

Start your trip in the capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi. In the morning, visit the historic Hoan Kiem Lake and take a stroll around the beautiful lake. Explore the Old Quarter's narrow streets filled with local shops and street food vendors in the afternoon. In the evening, don't miss the chance to watch a traditional water puppet show, a unique Vietnamese art form.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Free, 2 hours
  • Old Quarter: Free, 3 hours
  • Water Puppet Show: VND 100,000 (approximately $4), 1 hour
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Cafe Pho Co, a hidden gem with a rooftop view of Hoan Kiem Lake. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese breakfast with pho or banh mi. Average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
  • For lunch, try Bun Cha Hang Manh, a famous restaurant known for its delicious grilled pork served with cold rice noodles and fresh herbs. Average cost for a meal is about 120,000 VND per person.
  • For dinner, indulge in the traditional flavors of Hanoi at Cha Ca La Vong. This restaurant specializes in cha ca, a dish of grilled fish served with dill and turmeric. Average cost for a meal is about 300,000 VND per person.
Tuesday, December 26: Halong Bay

Embark on a breathtaking cruise to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. Spend the morning cruising through the bay and marveling at the magnificent scenery. Enjoy a seafood lunch on board before kayaking or swimming in the afternoon. As the day comes to an end, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the bay.

  • Halong Bay Cruise: VND 1,500,000 (approximately $65), 6 hours
  • Kayaking/Swimming: Free, 2 hours
  • Sunset Viewing: Free, 1 hour
Wednesday, December 27: Hoi An

Fly from Hanoi to Hoi An, a charming ancient town with well-preserved historic buildings. Start your day by exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Town, known for its narrow streets, lanterns, and traditional architecture. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and visit the nearby coconut palm village. Enjoy a delicious bowl of Cao Lau, a local specialty, for dinner.

  • Hoi An Old Town: VND 120,000 (approximately $5), 3 hours
  • Boat Ride: VND 200,000 (approximately $9), 2 hours
  • Cao Lau: VND 50,000 (approximately $2), 1 hour
Thursday, December 28: Hue

Travel from Hoi An to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Begin your day by visiting the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the magnificent palaces and gardens. In the afternoon, take a leisurely boat ride along the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and enjoy the serene surroundings. End your day with a visit to the vibrant Dong Ba Market.

  • Imperial City: VND 150,000 (approximately $7), 4 hours
  • Boat Ride: VND 220,000 (approximately $10), 2 hours
  • Dong Ba Market: Free, 1 hour
Friday, December 29: Ho Chi Minh City

Fly from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon. Start your day by exploring the historic landmarks of the city, including the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. In the afternoon, delve into the bustling atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for local handicrafts and sample delicious Vietnamese street food. End the day with a visit to the Bitexco Financial Tower for panoramic views of the city.

  • Reunification Palace: VND 40,000 (approximately $2), 2 hours
  • War Remnants Museum: VND 40,000 (approximately $2), 2 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Free, 2 hours
  • Bitexco Financial Tower: VND 200,000 (approximately $9), 1 hour
Saturday, December 30: Mekong Delta

Embark on a full-day excursion to the picturesque Mekong Delta region. Explore the floating markets, where locals trade goods from their boats. Visit local villages and witness traditional handicraft production. Enjoy a boat ride through the narrow canals and taste tropical fruits at an orchard. In the evening, savor a delectable dinner with live traditional music.

  • Floating Markets: VND 200,000 (approximately $9), 3 hours
  • Boat Ride: VND 300,000 (approximately $13), 4 hours
  • Tropical Fruit Tasting: Free, 1 hour
  • Dinner with Traditional Music: VND 300,000 (approximately $13), 2 hours
Sunday, December 31: Phu Quoc Island

Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc Island, a tropical paradise in the Gulf of Thailand. Spend the day relaxing on the pristine beaches, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, or exploring the island's lush landscapes. As the year comes to an end, indulge in a seafood feast and enjoy the fireworks on the beach to celebrate New Year's Eve.

  • Beach Relaxation: Free, 6 hours
  • Snorkeling: VND 200,000 (approximately $9), 2 hours
  • Seafood Feast: VND 500,000 (approximately $22), 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, venture off the beaten path and visit the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, where you can explore an intricate network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. Discover the peaceful town of Sapa, nestled in the mountains, and embark on a trek to meet ethnic minority tribes and witness stunning terraced rice fields. Don't miss the chance to taste the famous pho noodle soup at a local street vendor for an authentic culinary experience.

Check hotel and flight prices 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