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 58 travelers

Exploring the Beauty of Vietnam: 7-Day Itinerary

Sunday, August 20: Ho Chi Minh City

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh. In the morning, visit the historic Reunification Palace, a symbol of the city's rich history. Afterward, explore the colorful markets of Ben Thanh, where you can find traditional Vietnamese handicrafts and delicious street food. In the evening, enjoy a dinner cruise along the Saigon River, admiring the city skyline.

  • Reunification Palace: Estimated cost: $5, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Saigon River Dinner Cruise: Estimated cost: $30, Time spent: 3 hours
Monday, August 21: Hoi An

Travel to the charming town of Hoi An, known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and lantern-lit streets. Start your day with a visit to the Japanese Covered Bridge, a beautiful symbol of Hoi An. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along Thu Bon River to explore the rural countryside and visit local villages. In the evening, join a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes.

  • Japanese Covered Bridge: Estimated cost: $3, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Boat Ride on Thu Bon River: Estimated cost: $10, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Cooking Class: Estimated cost: $25, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Tuesday, August 22: Hue

Head to the imperial city of Hue, known for its historical landmarks and imperial architecture. Start your day with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Hue Citadel, which houses the Imperial City and Forbidden Purple City. In the afternoon, explore the serene Thien Mu Pagoda and take a boat ride along the Perfume River. End the day by enjoying a traditional royal dinner.

  • Hue Citadel: Estimated cost: $6, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Boat Ride on Perfume River: Estimated cost: $10, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Royal Dinner: Estimated cost: $30, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Wednesday, August 23: Ha Long Bay

Embark on a breathtaking journey to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its limestone karsts and emerald waters. Take a cruise through the bay, enjoying the stunning scenery and visiting hidden caves. Swim in the turquoise waters, kayak around the islands, and indulge in a fresh seafood feast onboard.

  • Ha Long Bay Cruise: Estimated cost: $100, Time spent: Full day
Thursday, August 24: Hanoi

Explore the vibrant capital city of Hanoi. Start your day with a visit to the historic Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. In the afternoon, wander through the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, known for its bustling markets and traditional Vietnamese architecture. Don't miss the chance to try authentic Vietnamese street food. In the evening, watch a traditional water puppet show.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Exploring the Old Quarter: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Water Puppet Show: Estimated cost: $5, Time spent: 1 hour
Friday, August 25: Ninh Binh

Visit the enchanting region of Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Halong Bay on land." Start your day with a boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes, admiring the limestone caves and lush landscape. In the afternoon, explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and visit the temples of the Dinh and Le Dynasties. End the day with a relaxing bike ride through the rice paddies and local villages.

  • Trang An Grottoes: Estimated cost: $10, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Estimated cost: $5, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Bike Ride in Ninh Binh: Estimated cost: $5, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday, August 26: Phu Quoc Island

End your trip on the stunning Phu Quoc Island, known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Spend the day relaxing on the beach, snorkeling in the coral reefs, and indulging in fresh seafood. Don't miss the chance to watch the mesmerizing sunset over the ocean.

  • Beach Relaxation: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: Full day
  • Snorkeling: Estimated cost: $20, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Sunset Watching: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Vietnam, make sure to venture off the beaten path and discover some hidden gems. Head to the mountain town of Sapa for stunning trekking experiences and interactions with local hill tribes. Visit the ancient town of Duong Lam, known for its well-preserved traditional houses and peaceful countryside. For nature lovers, explore the incredible caves and underground rivers in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Lastly, don't forget to try the delicious street food in Hanoi's hidden alleyways and local markets.

To check hotel and flight prices for your Vietnam trip, click 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