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

Exploring Vietnam: 5-Day Itinerary

Thursday, September 28: Hanoi

Start your trip in the vibrant capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and explore the peaceful Ngoc Son Temple located on a small island in the lake. Take a stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, filled with bustling markets and traditional shops. Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the nearby One Pillar Pagoda. In the evening, experience the lively atmosphere of the Night Market in the Old Quarter.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Old Quarter: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and One Pillar Pagoda: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Night Market: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours
Friday, September 29: Halong Bay

Embark on a breathtaking cruise to explore the stunning natural beauty of Halong Bay. In the morning, board a traditional junk boat and sail through the emerald waters, surrounded by towering limestone karsts. Enjoy a scrumptious seafood lunch on board. Visit the incredible Thien Cung Cave with its mesmerizing stalactite formations. Take part in activities like kayaking or swimming. As the day ends, witness a spectacular sunset over the bay. Spend the night on the cruise ship.

  • Halong Bay Cruise: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Full day
Saturday, September 30: Hoi An

Travel to the charming ancient town of Hoi An. In the morning, explore the well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site with its narrow streets, colorful houses, and historic buildings. Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River to visit the nearby Kim Bong Carpentry Village. Experience the magical lantern-lit streets of Hoi An in the evening.

  • Hoi An Ancient Town: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 4 hours
  • Japanese Covered Bridge: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Kim Bong Carpentry Village: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours
Sunday, October 1: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Head to the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. In the morning, visit the historic Reunification Palace and learn about Vietnam's modern history. Explore the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, architectural gems from the French colonial era. Enjoy a tasty Vietnamese lunch. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate underground network used during the Vietnam War. In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife of the city.

  • Reunification Palace: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Cu Chi Tunnels: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 4 hours
  • Ho Chi Minh City Nightlife: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Evening
Monday, October 2: Mekong Delta

Explore the picturesque Mekong Delta region. In the morning, take a boat trip along the Mekong River and visit the vibrant Cai Be Floating Market. Experience the local lifestyle and sample fresh tropical fruits. Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring regional specialties. In the afternoon, visit traditional cottage industries and learn about coconut candy and rice paper production. Take a cycling tour through the countryside and soak in the serene atmosphere. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

  • Cai Be Floating Market: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Traditional Cottage Industries: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Cycling Tour: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Vietnam, don't miss the chance to explore the charming town of Sapa, nestled in the mountains of northern Vietnam. Take a trekking tour to discover the stunning rice terraces and meet ethnic minority communities. Another hidden gem is the town of Dalat, known as the "City of Eternal Spring." Explore its lush landscapes, waterfalls, and French colonial architecture. Locals also love the picturesque town of Hoi An for its lantern festivals and mouthwatering street food. Be sure to try the local delicacies such as pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls.

For the best hotel and flight prices, check out KAYAK.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version