Explore bustling Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, and visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the Vietnam War and its aftermath. Continue to the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office, architectural gems built during the French colonial period.
Embark on a day trip to the Mekong Delta, a vast network of river channels and swamps. Take a boat ride to the Cai Rang Floating Market and witness the vibrant trade of fruits, vegetables, and other goods. Visit a local fruit orchard and taste exotic fruits.
Arrive at the charming Hoi An Ancient Town, a well-preserved trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries. Stroll along the atmospheric streets and alleys and admire the blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture. Explore the Tan Ky House and take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes.
Travel to the former imperial capital of Vietnam and visit the Hue Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the grandeur of the Forbidden Purple City and the royal tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty. Take a dragon boat ride on the serene Perfume River and explore the Thien Mu Pagoda.
Discover the stunning natural wonder of Ha Long Bay, a cluster of limestone islets and turquoise sea. Take a boat trip to explore the labyrinths of rocks and caves and learn about the local legends. Swim in the emerald water or go kayaking to get up close to the cliffs. Stay overnight on a traditional junk and watch the starry sky.
End the trip in the charming capital of Vietnam and wander around the Hanoi Old Quarter, a maze of alleys and streets with French colonial architecture. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to pay respects to the revolutionary leader and explore the One Pillar Pagoda. Taste the famous local dish of pho, a bowl of fragrant beef noodle soup.
This itinerary covers some of the best destinations in Vietnam in just 6 days, but if you have more time, consider adding the following places: Sa Pa for trekking, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park for cave exploring, Dalat for a romantic getaway, or Phu Quoc Island for beach relaxation. If you have less time, skip Hue and spend more time in Hoi An or Ha Long Bay.