Start your trip in the capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi. In the morning, visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and take a leisurely walk around its shores. Explore the bustling Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets and traditional architecture, and indulge in some local street food for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, a beautiful Confucian temple that served as Vietnam's first national university. In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife and entertainment options at the bustling Ta Hien Street.
On day two, fly to Da Nang, a vibrant coastal city. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone hills with cave temples and panoramic views. Enjoy a seafood lunch by the beach before exploring the Museum of Cham Sculpture, showcasing the ancient Cham civilization. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll across the Dragon Bridge, an impressive bridge illuminated with colorful lights.
Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling metropolis formerly known as Saigon. Start your day by visiting the historic Reunification Palace, followed by a stroll through the beautiful French colonial architecture in the Notre Dame Cathedral area. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at Ben Thanh Market, a bustling market filled with local vendors. In the afternoon, explore the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history. End the evening by visiting the vibrant Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
Take a day trip to the charming ancient town of Hoi An. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site's narrow streets adorned with colorful lanterns. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and explore the Hoi An Ancient Town, filled with traditional houses, museums, and shops. Enjoy a delicious local lunch by the Thu Bon River and spend the afternoon shopping for handmade crafts and tailor-made clothing. In the evening, witness the magical lantern-lit streets and dine at one of the riverside restaurants.
End your trip with a visit to the stunning Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and limestone islands. Take a cruise through the bay, admiring the breathtaking scenery and enjoying a seafood lunch on board. Explore the mesmerizing caves and go swimming or kayaking in the pristine waters. In the evening, watch the sunset over the bay before returning to Hanoi.
When exploring Hanoi, don't miss the chance to visit West Lake and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere away from the city's hustle and bustle. In Da Nang, head to the Son Tra Peninsula for stunning views and a visit to the Linh Ung Pagoda. In Ho Chi Minh City, venture out to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. In Hoi An, take a bicycle ride to the nearby Tra Que Vegetable Village to see local farming practices. Lastly, in Ha Long Bay, visit the less crowded Bai Tu Long Bay for a more serene and untouched experience.
For the best deals on hotels and flights, you can check the prices on Kayak.