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 55 travelers

A Week in Vietnam: Exploring the Best of the Country

Thursday, September 28: Hanoi

Start your trip in the charming city of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. In the morning, visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and take a leisurely walk around its serene surroundings. Explore the bustling Old Quarter of Hanoi, known for its narrow streets, traditional shops, and vibrant markets. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local pho restaurant and immerse yourself in the rich history of Vietnam at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology in the afternoon. In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife of Hanoi at Ta Hien Street, known as the "Beer Corner" where you can try local street food and enjoy a cold beer.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Entrance is free, approximately 2 hours
  • Old Quarter: Free to explore, approximately 3-4 hours
  • Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Entrance fee is 40,000 VND (around $2), approximately 2-3 hours
  • Ta Hien Street: Cost depends on food and drinks, approximately 2-3 hours
Friday, September 29: Halong Bay

Embark on a breathtaking cruise to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Halong Bay. Spend the morning sailing through the emerald waters, surrounded by stunning limestone karsts and islands. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch onboard. In the afternoon, explore the mesmerizing caves and go kayaking or swimming in the bay. Witness a beautiful sunset from the deck of the cruise ship. Spend the evening relaxing and enjoying the amenities on the cruise.

  • Halong Bay Cruise: Prices vary depending on the package, approximately 6-8 hours
Saturday, September 30: Hoi An

Fly from Hanoi to the charming town of Hoi An. In the morning, explore the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town of Hoi An, known for its well-preserved architecture, colorful lanterns, and vibrant markets. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation, and the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and witness the beautiful countryside scenery. Spend the evening wandering through the night market and trying local street food.

  • Ancient Town of Hoi An: Entrance fee is 120,000 VND (around $5), approximately 4-5 hours
  • Boat ride along Thu Bon River: Prices vary, approximately 2-3 hours
  • Night Market: Free to wander, approximately 2-3 hours
Sunday, October 1: Ho Chi Minh City

Take a flight from Hoi An to the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh City. Start your day by visiting the historic Reunification Palace, followed by the War Remnants Museum to gain insight into Vietnam's history. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local pho restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market where you can shop for souvenirs and try local delicacies. Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the Central Post Office, two beautiful landmarks in the city. End your day with a visit to the Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck for panoramic views of the cityscape.

  • Reunification Palace: Entrance fee is 40,000 VND (around $2), approximately 2-3 hours
  • War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee is 40,000 VND (around $2), approximately 2-3 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Free to explore, approximately 2-3 hours
  • Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and Central Post Office: Free to visit, approximately 1-2 hours
  • Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck: Entrance fee is 200,000 VND (around $9), approximately 1-2 hours
Monday, October 2: Mekong Delta

Embark on a full-day tour to the Mekong Delta, known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. Explore the floating markets, where locals trade goods from their boats, and learn about the traditional way of life in the delta. Take a boat ride along the canals and visit local villages to witness the cottage industries. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a riverside restaurant. In the afternoon, experience a sampan boat ride through the narrow waterways and coconut groves. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

  • Mekong Delta Tour: Prices vary depending on the package, approximately 8-10 hours
Tuesday, October 3: Phu Quoc Island

Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to the tranquil island of Phu Quoc. Spend the day relaxing on the beautiful beaches and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. Take a leisurely stroll along the Long Beach and soak up the sun. Visit the Dinh Cau Night Market in the evening, where you can sample delicious seafood and shop for local handicrafts.

  • Beach Relaxation: Free, full day
  • Dinh Cau Night Market: Free to explore, approximately 2-3 hours
Wednesday, October 4: Hanoi

Take a flight back to Hanoi and spend your last day exploring the city further. Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, and learn about its rich history and beautiful traditional architecture. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Vietnam Women's Museum to discover the role of Vietnamese women in society and history. Take a stroll around West Lake and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city.

  • Temple of Literature: Entrance fee is 30,000 VND (around $1), approximately 2-3 hours
  • Vietnam Women's Museum: Entrance fee is 30,000 VND (around $1), approximately 2-3 hours
  • West Lake: Free to explore, approximately 2-3 hours
  • Rooftop Restaurant: Cost depends on food and drinks, approximately 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, venture off the beaten path and explore the Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh, a beautiful and vibrant temple where you can witness the fascinating blend of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity. Another hidden gem is the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. Delve into history by exploring these tunnels and learning about the resilience and resourcefulness of the Vietnamese people.

Locals also love Ninh Binh, known as the "Halong Bay on Land." Take a day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh and explore the stunning limestone landscapes, visit ancient temples, and take a boat ride through the picturesque Trang An Grottoes.

Don't forget to use this link to check hotel and flight prices for your Vietnam adventure!

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