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 54 travelers

7-Day Itinerary for Vietnam: Cat Ba Islands, Hoi An, Phong Nha, Ninh Binh, Ha Giang, and Sapa

Friday, September 1: Cat Ba Islands

Start your trip by exploring the stunning Cat Ba Islands. In the morning, take a boat tour to Lan Ha Bay and enjoy kayaking through the limestone karsts. In the afternoon, visit Cat Ba National Park and hike to the peak for panoramic views. As the evening sets in, relax on the beaches and indulge in fresh seafood.

  • Lan Ha Bay Boat Tour: Check here for prices and availability. Estimated cost: $30. Estimated time spent: 4 hours.
  • Cat Ba National Park: Entrance fee: $2. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
  • Beach relaxation and seafood dinner: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Evening.
Saturday, September 2: Hoi An

Embark on a journey to the charming town of Hoi An. In the morning, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient Town, with its well-preserved architecture and vibrant street markets. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and visit the nearby islands. As the evening sets in, witness the magical Lantern Festival and enjoy a delicious local dinner.

  • Ancient Town exploration: Entrance fee: $6. Estimated time spent: 4 hours.
  • Boat ride and island visit: Check here for prices and availability. Estimated cost: $20. Estimated time spent: 3 hours.
  • Lantern Festival: Free to witness. Estimated time spent: Evening.
Sunday, September 3: Phong Nha

Head to the remarkable Phong Nha National Park. In the morning, explore the Phong Nha Cave, known for its stunning stalagmites and underground river. In the afternoon, venture into the Paradise Cave, one of the world's most beautiful caves. As the evening sets in, enjoy a peaceful dinner by the river.

  • Phong Nha Cave: Entrance fee: $10. Estimated time spent: 3 hours.
  • Paradise Cave: Entrance fee: $15. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
  • Dinner by the river: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Evening.
Monday, September 4: Ninh Binh

Discover the picturesque landscapes of Ninh Binh. In the morning, take a boat ride through Trang An Grottoes and admire the stunning limestone caves. In the afternoon, visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and explore the temples and pagodas. As the evening sets in, enjoy a bike ride through the countryside and witness the sunset.

  • Trang An Grottoes boat ride: Entrance fee: $8. Estimated time spent: 3 hours.
  • Hoa Lu ancient capital: Entrance fee: $3. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
  • Bike ride and sunset: Bike rental cost: $5. Estimated time spent: Evening.
Tuesday, September 5: Ha Giang

Embark on a scenic journey to Ha Giang. In the morning, drive along the breathtaking Ma Pi Leng Pass and soak in the stunning mountain views. In the afternoon, visit the local ethnic villages and experience their unique culture. As the evening sets in, enjoy a homestay experience and savor traditional meals.

  • Ma Pi Leng Pass drive: Transportation cost varies. Estimated time spent: 4 hours.
  • Local ethnic village visit: Free. Estimated time spent: 3 hours.
  • Homestay experience: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Evening.
Wednesday, September 6: Sapa

Continue your adventure to the beautiful town of Sapa. In the morning, trek through the picturesque rice terraces and interact with the local ethnic tribes. In the afternoon, visit the bustling Sapa Market and explore the handicrafts. As the evening sets in, relax in a hot spring and enjoy a local dinner.

  • Trekking through rice terraces: Guided tour cost varies. Estimated time spent: 4 hours.
  • Sapa Market exploration: Free. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
  • Hot spring relaxation and dinner: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Evening.
Thursday, September 7: Departure

Wrap up your Vietnam adventure and depart from your location. Take some time to reminisce about the amazing experiences you had during your trip.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Vietnam, don't miss the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the remote village of Bac Ha in the mountains for its vibrant Sunday market, where you can find colorful ethnic textiles and fresh produce. Take a boat trip to Bai Tu Long Bay for a quieter and less touristy alternative to Ha Long Bay. Explore the caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park further and discover the fascinating underground world. These off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals will offer unique experiences.

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