Start your trip in the capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, take a stroll around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can visit Ngoc Son Temple. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets, vibrant markets, and delicious street food. In the evening, catch a traditional water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theater.
Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Old Quarter: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
Thang Long Water Puppet Theater: Estimated cost - $5-10, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious Vietnamese breakfast at Pho Thin. This popular restaurant serves mouthwatering bowls of pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup. The average cost for a meal is about 50,000 VND per person.
For lunch, head to Banh Mi 25, a famous sandwich shop in the heart of the Old Quarter. Their banh mi sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. The average cost for a meal is about 40,000 VND per person.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at Quan An Ngon, a charming restaurant offering a wide variety of Vietnamese delicacies. From spring rolls to grilled meats, you'll find something to satisfy every palate. The average cost for a meal is about 150,000 VND per person.
Saturday, September 2: Ha Long Bay
Embark on a memorable cruise in the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay. Spend the morning exploring the beautiful limestone islands, caves, and floating villages. Enjoy a seafood lunch aboard the cruise ship and take part in activities like kayaking, swimming, or simply relaxing on the deck. As the sun sets, witness the magical view of the bay dotted with glowing lanterns.
Ha Long Bay Cruise: Estimated cost - $100-200 per person, Time spent - Full day
Restaurants
Tiny Corner: A cozy breakfast spot known for their delicious Vietnamese coffee and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 50,000 VND per person.
Seafood Delight: A waterfront restaurant offering a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled prawns and steamed clams. Average cost for a meal is about 200,000 VND per person.
Bayview Bistro: Located on a hilltop with panoramic views of Ha Long Bay, this restaurant serves a combination of Vietnamese and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300,000 VND per person.
Sunday, September 3: Hoi An
Transfer to the charming town of Hoi An, known for its well-preserved ancient architecture. Start your morning by exploring the historic Old Town, with its colorful lanterns, narrow streets, and traditional houses. Take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River in the afternoon to visit the nearby Kim Bong Carpentry Village and witness skilled craftsmen at work. In the evening, enjoy a stroll along the lantern-lit streets and try local specialties at a riverside restaurant.
Hoi An Old Town: Estimated cost - $5 (entrance ticket), Time spent - 3 hours
Thu Bon River Boat Ride and Kim Bong Carpentry Village: Estimated cost - $10-15, Time spent - 2 hours
Dinner at a riverside restaurant: Estimated cost - $10-20 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Hoi An is Morning Glory, offering a wide selection of traditional Vietnamese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
For lunch, try Cargo Club, a charming restaurant known for its fresh and flavorful sandwiches, salads, and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 150,000 VND per person.
In the evening, indulge in Vietnamese fusion cuisine at Mango Rooms, where you can enjoy dishes like lemongrass-marinated beef and coconut curry. Average cost for a meal is about 250,000 VND per person.
Monday, September 4: Hue
Travel to the imperial city of Hue, home to ancient temples, palaces, and tombs. Start your day by exploring the majestic Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and take a leisurely boat ride along the Perfume River. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant and experience the rich flavors of Hue cuisine.
Thien Mu Pagoda and Perfume River Boat Ride: Estimated cost - $5-10, Time spent - 2 hours
Dinner at a local restaurant: Estimated cost - $10-20 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Tuesday, September 5: Nha Trang
Fly to the coastal city of Nha Trang, famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant underwater world. Spend the morning at Vinpearl Land, an amusement park located on an island accessible by cable car. Enjoy thrilling rides, water slides, and a variety of entertainment options for the whole family. In the afternoon, relax at one of the beautiful beaches and take a boat trip to explore the nearby islands.
Vinpearl Land: Estimated cost - $30-50, Time spent - Half day
Beach relaxation and island hopping: Estimated cost - Free (beach), $20-30 (boat trip), Time spent - Half day
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Nha Trang is Skylight Coffee, known for its delicious Vietnamese coffee and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
For lunch, head to Lanterns Vietnamese Restaurant which offers a wide range of traditional Vietnamese dishes, including pho and spring rolls. Average cost for a meal is about 150,000 VND per person.
In the evening, indulge in a flavorful dinner at Sailing Club Nha Trang, a beachfront restaurant with a diverse menu of seafood, steaks, and Asian fusion cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 400,000 VND per person.
Wednesday, September 6: Ho Chi Minh City
Head south to the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon). Start your day with a visit to the historic Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum to gain insights into Vietnam's history. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Ben Thanh Market, known for its bustling stalls and diverse range of goods. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant and take an evening stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Vintage Emporium. This cozy café offers a variety of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Secret Garden Restaurant. This hidden gem serves authentic Vietnamese dishes made with fresh ingredients and local flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 200,000 VND per person.
Indulge in a flavorful dinner at Temple Club. This upscale restaurant offers a fusion of Vietnamese and international cuisines in a beautifully restored colonial building. Average cost for a meal is about 500,000 VND per person.
Thursday, September 7: Mekong Delta
Take a day trip to the picturesque Mekong Delta region, known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. Explore the floating markets, lush fruit orchards, and traditional villages. Enjoy a boat ride along the canals, taste tropical fruits, and learn about the local way of life. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening and indulge in a delicious farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with stunning city views.
Mekong Delta Day Trip: Estimated cost - $30-50, Time spent - Full day
Farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant: Estimated cost - $20-30 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious Vietnamese breakfast at Pho 2000. This popular restaurant serves the classic dish of pho, a flavorful soup with rice noodles and various meats. The average cost for a meal here is about $5 per person.
For lunch, head to Secret Garden Restaurant, a hidden gem in Ho Chi Minh City. This cozy restaurant offers an extensive menu of authentic Vietnamese cuisine, including fresh spring rolls and fragrant noodle dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about $7 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Cục Gạch Quán, a charming restaurant housed in a traditional Vietnamese antique house. Enjoy a variety of traditional dishes such as crispy pancakes and grilled pork. The average cost for a meal here is about $10 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a family-friendly off the beaten path experience, consider visiting Cat Ba Island in Ha Long Bay. It offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Another hidden gem is the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, where you can explore the underground network used during the Vietnam War. Don't miss the unique experience of cycling through the tranquil countryside of Hoi An or enjoying a traditional water puppet show in Hanoi.