In the morning, visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market for shopping and local street food. In the evening, take a stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
War Remnants Museum: Estimated cost - $2, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Ben Thanh Market: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
Breakfast: Enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast at Bun Bo Hue Co Do, known for their flavorful and authentic bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup). Average cost for a meal is about 50,000 VND per person.
Lunch: Treat yourself to a scrumptious meal at Cuc Gach Quan, a charming restaurant decorated with antiques and serving traditional Vietnamese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200,000 VND per person.
Dinner: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Noir., where you can have a unique dining experience in complete darkness while being served by visually impaired waitstaff. Average cost for a meal is about 500,000 VND per person.
Sunday, March 3: Cu Chi Tunnels
Embark on a half-day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network used during the Vietnam War. Explore the tunnels and learn about the history and resilience of the Vietnamese people. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon and visit the Bitexco Financial Tower for panoramic views of the city.
Cu Chi Tunnels Tour: Estimated cost - $25, Estimated time spent - 5-6 hours
Take a morning flight to Hoi An, a charming ancient town. Explore the well-preserved Old Town, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, and take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River in the afternoon. In the evening, enjoy a lantern-lit dinner by the river.
Hoi An Old Town: Estimated cost - $5 (entrance ticket), Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
Japanese Covered Bridge: Estimated cost - $3, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
Thu Bon River Boat Ride: Estimated cost - $10, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, March 5: My Son Sanctuary
Embark on a half-day tour to the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ancient ruins of Hindu temples and learn about the Champa Kingdom. Return to Hoi An in the afternoon and spend the rest of the day relaxing on An Bang Beach.
My Son Sanctuary Tour: Estimated cost - $20, Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
An Bang Beach: Free, Estimated time spent - Flexible
Wednesday, March 6: Hue
Take a scenic drive to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Visit the Imperial City, including the Forbidden Purple City and the Thien Mu Pagoda. Enjoy a traditional royal dinner in the evening.
Thien Mu Pagoda: Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Traditional Royal Dinner: Estimated cost - $15, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Thursday, March 7: Halong Bay
Take a morning flight to Hanoi, then transfer to Halong Bay. Embark on a cruise to explore the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. Enjoy kayaking, swimming, and a seafood lunch on the boat. Witness a breathtaking sunset over the bay before spending the night on the cruise.
Halong Bay Cruise: Estimated cost - $100, Estimated time spent - 2 days, 1 night
Friday, March 8: Hanoi
Disembark from the cruise and return to Hanoi. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature in the morning. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Old Quarter and enjoy a traditional water puppet show in the evening.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
One Pillar Pagoda: Free, Estimated time spent - 30 minutes
Temple of Literature: Estimated cost - $2, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Water Puppet Show: Estimated cost - $5, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a family-friendly off the beaten path experience, visit the Vinpearl Land amusement park in Nha Trang. It offers thrilling rides, a water park, and other entertainment options suitable for all ages. Another local favorite is the Bao Son Paradise Park in Hanoi, featuring beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, and cultural performances.