Exploring Vietnam: A 7-Day Itinerary

Friday, September 29: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

In the morning, start your journey in Ho Chi Minh City by visiting the historic landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Reunification Palace, and War Remnants Museum. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market, where you can find traditional crafts, clothing, and local street food. Enjoy the evening by taking a cruise along the Saigon River to admire the city lights.

• Notre-Dame Cathedral: Entrance fee: 40,000 VND (approx. $1.75) | Time spent: 1 hour
• Reunification Palace: Entrance fee: 40,000 VND (approx. $1.75) | Time spent: 1-2 hours
• War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee: 40,000 VND (approx. $1.75) | Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: No entrance fee | Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Saigon River cruise: Cost: 350,000 VND (approx. $15) | Time spent: 1-2 hours

Saturday, September 30: Hoi An

In the morning, explore the ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved architecture. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, and explore the colorful lantern-filled streets. In the afternoon, take a boat trip along the Thu Bon River and visit the nearby Tra Que Vegetable Village. End the day by enjoying a traditional Vietnamese dinner by the riverside.

• Japanese Covered Bridge: Entrance fee: 120,000 VND (approx. $5.25) | Time spent: 30 minutes
• Tan Ky Old House: Entrance fee: 80,000 VND (approx. $3.50) | Time spent: 30 minutes
• Boat trip on Thu Bon River: Cost: 150,000 VND (approx. $6.50) | Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Tra Que Vegetable Village: Entrance fee: 20,000 VND (approx. $0.85) | Time spent: 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 1: Ha Long Bay

Embark on a day cruise to Ha Long Bay, a stunning natural wonder featuring limestone karsts and emerald waters. Explore the caves, kayak through the karst formations, and enjoy a seafood lunch on board. Marvel at the breathtaking sunset over the bay before returning to the mainland.

• Ha Long Bay day cruise: Cost: 1,500,000 VND (approx. $65) | Time spent: Full day

Monday, October 2: Hanoi

Discover the charms of Hanoi by visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can see the preserved body of Vietnam's iconic leader. Explore the Temple of Literature, dedicated to Confucius, and stroll through the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter. In the evening, watch a traditional water puppet show, showcasing Vietnamese folklore and culture.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: No entrance fee | Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Temple of Literature: Entrance fee: 30,000 VND (approx. $1.30) | Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Old Quarter: No entrance fee | Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Water puppet show: Cost: 100,000-200,000 VND (approx. $4.35-$8.70) | Time spent: 1 hour

Tuesday, October 3: Ninh Binh

Visit Ninh Binh, often referred to as the "Halong Bay on land." Take a boat trip through the scenic Tam Coc or Trang An, surrounded by limestone mountains and lush rice fields. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and visit the Bich Dong Pagoda. Enjoy a bicycle ride through the countryside and savor a traditional Vietnamese lunch.

• Boat trip in Tam Coc or Trang An: Cost: 200,000 VND (approx. $8.70) | Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Entrance fee: 20,000 VND (approx. $0.85) | Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Bich Dong Pagoda: No entrance fee | Time spent: 30 minutes
• Bicycle ride: Cost: 50,000 VND (approx. $2.20) | Time spent: 1-2 hours

Wednesday, October 4: Da Nang

Start your day by visiting the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone hills with pagodas and caves. Enjoy panoramic views of Da Nang from the Dragon Bridge, and relax on the beautiful My Khe Beach. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Han Market and indulge in delicious local street food.

• Marble Mountains: Entrance fee: 40,000 VND (approx. $1.75) | Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Dragon Bridge: No entrance fee | Time spent: 30 minutes
• My Khe Beach: No entrance fee | Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Han Market: No entrance fee | Time spent: 1-2 hours

Thursday, October 5: Phu Quoc Island

Fly to Phu Quoc Island and spend the day relaxing on the pristine beaches, such as Long Beach or Sao Beach. Take a snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Enjoy fresh seafood for lunch and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the island.

• Flight to Phu Quoc Island: Check prices here
• Beach relaxation: No entrance fee | Time spent: Full day
• Snorkeling tour: Cost: 500,000 VND (approx. $21.75) | Time spent: 3-4 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, venture off the beaten path and explore the Mekong Delta, known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. Take a boat trip along the narrow canals, visit floating markets, and discover the traditional rural way of life. Another hidden gem is the city of Hue, with its imperial citadel, ancient tombs, and delicious royal cuisine.