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

Vietnam Exploration: A 7-Day Itinerary

Friday, December 22: Arrive in Hanoi

Welcome to Vietnam! Kickstart your adventure in Hanoi, the capital city bursting with history and culture. In the morning, visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can admire the mesmerizing Turtle Tower and take a leisurely walk around the lake. Afternoon calls for exploring the vibrant Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets filled with shops, street food stalls, and ancient temples. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Entrance is free; approx. 1-2 hours
  • Old Quarter: No entrance fee; approx. 3-4 hours
  • Traditional Vietnamese Dinner: Estimated cost $15-20 per person; approx. 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 23: Ha Long Bay Cruise

Embark on a mesmerizing cruise adventure to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Witness the breathtaking beauty of limestone karsts jutting out from the emerald waters. Spend the morning exploring hidden caves, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the sundeck. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board and soak in the enchanting scenery. As the sun sets, witness the magical glow of the bay. Return to Hanoi in the evening.

  • Ha Long Bay Cruise: Estimated cost $100-150 per person; full day
Sunday, December 24: Discover Hue's Imperial City

Take a morning flight to Hue, a city steeped in history and culture. Begin your exploration at the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the grandeur of the Citadel and visit the Forbidden Purple City. In the afternoon, visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-story pagoda situated on the banks of the Perfume River. Experience a Hue-style dinner in a local restaurant while enjoying traditional music performances.

  • Imperial City: Entrance fee $6 per person; approx. 2-3 hours
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: Entrance is free; approx. 1-2 hours
  • Hue-style Dinner: Estimated cost $20-25 per person; approx. 2 hours
Monday, December 25: Hoi An Ancient Town

Travel to Hoi An, a charming UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ancient town. Start the day by exploring the narrow streets lined with beautifully preserved buildings, ancient temples, and traditional shops. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and wander through the vibrant local market. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and witness the stunning sunset. Indulge in a delicious Vietnamese cuisine for dinner.

  • Hoi An Ancient Town: Entrance fee $6 per person; approx. 3-4 hours
  • Japanese Covered Bridge: Entrance fee $1 per person; approx. 1 hour
  • Boat Ride on Thu Bon River: Estimated cost $10-15 per person; approx. 1-2 hours
  • Vietnamese Dinner: Estimated cost $15-20 per person; approx. 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Explore Ho Chi Minh City

Take a morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the bustling metropolis of Vietnam. Start your day by visiting the historic Reunification Palace and learn about Vietnam's modern history. Explore the War Remnants Museum to gain insights into the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, stroll along the lively Dong Khoi Street and visit the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Reunification Palace: Entrance fee $2 per person; approx. 2-3 hours
  • War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee $2 per person; approx. 2 hours
  • Notre Dame Cathedral: Free admission; approx. 30 minutes
  • Central Post Office: Free admission; approx. 30 minutes
  • Local Restaurant Dinner: Estimated cost $15-20 per person; approx. 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Mekong Delta Excursion

Embark on an exciting day trip to the Mekong Delta, known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. Cruise along the winding waterways, visit local villages, and experience the unique floating markets. Explore the lush fruit orchards and taste tropical fruits. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch in a local village. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon and spend the evening at leisure.

  • Mekong Delta Day Trip: Estimated cost $30-40 per person; full day
Thursday, December 28: Cu Chi Tunnels and Departure

Wrap up your Vietnam adventure with a visit to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels. Explore the underground network used by Vietnamese soldiers during the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, return to Ho Chi Minh City for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Bid farewell to Vietnam as you catch your evening flight back home.

  • Cu Chi Tunnels: Entrance fee $5 per person; approx. 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Vietnam, make sure to venture off the beaten path and discover some hidden gems. Visit the Cao Dai Temple near Tay Ninh, where you can witness the fascinating Cao Dai religion's vibrant rituals. Take a scenic motorbike ride along the Hai Van Pass between Hue and Hoi An for breathtaking coastal views. Explore the peaceful countryside of Ninh Binh, where you can visit stunning limestone landscapes and take a boat ride through Tam Coc's picturesque rice fields.

For the best hotel and flight prices, you can check 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