7-Day Itinerary in Vietnam

Friday December 22: Ho Chi Minh City

In the morning, visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history. Afterward, explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market and indulge in delicious street food. In the evening, take a stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street and admire the city lights.

• War Remnants Museum: Estimated cost: $2, Time spent: 2 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 2 hours
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Free, Time spent: 1 hour

Saturday December 23: Hoi An

Start your day by wandering through the charming Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge and enjoy the vibrant lanterns that light up the streets. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and visit the nearby Tra Que Vegetable Village.

• Ancient Town: Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 3 hours
• Japanese Covered Bridge: Estimated cost: $1, Time spent: 1 hour
• Boat ride on Thu Bon River: Estimated cost: $5, Time spent: 2 hours
• Tra Que Vegetable Village: Estimated cost: $3, Time spent: 2 hours

Sunday December 24: Ha Long Bay

Embark on a cruise to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Ha Long Bay. Enjoy kayaking around the limestone karsts, visiting hidden caves, and swimming in the emerald waters. In the evening, relax on the deck of the cruise and witness a mesmerizing sunset.

• Ha Long Bay Cruise: Estimated cost: $100, Time spent: Full day

Monday December 25: Hanoi

Discover the capital city of Vietnam by visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can pay respects to the country's former leader. Explore the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake and stroll through the charming Old Quarter. In the evening, watch a traditional water puppet show.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
• Hoan Kiem Lake: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
• Old Quarter: Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 3 hours
• Water Puppet Show: Estimated cost: $5, Time spent: 1 hour

Tuesday December 26: Hue

Explore the Imperial City of Hue, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the majestic Hue Citadel and admire the intricate architecture. Discover the Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-story pagoda overlooking the Perfume River. In the afternoon, take a dragon boat cruise along the river.

• Hue Citadel: Estimated cost: $5, Time spent: 3 hours
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Estimated cost: $1, Time spent: 1 hour
• Dragon Boat Cruise: Estimated cost: $10, Time spent: 2 hours

Wednesday December 27: Nha Trang

Relax and unwind on the beautiful beaches of Nha Trang. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply sunbathing. Indulge in a seafood feast at one of the beachside restaurants. In the evening, explore the lively nightlife along Tran Phu Street.

• Nha Trang Beach: Free, Time spent: Full day
• Seafood Restaurant: Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 2 hours
• Tran Phu Street: Free, Time spent: 2 hours

Thursday December 28: Mekong Delta

Experience the vibrant culture of the Mekong Delta. Take a boat ride along the river and visit local villages. Explore the floating markets and try some fresh tropical fruits. In the afternoon, cycle through the countryside and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

• Boat ride in Mekong Delta: Estimated cost: $30, Time spent: Full day
• Floating Markets: Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 2 hours
• Cycling in the countryside: Estimated cost: $5, Time spent: 3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the mountainous region of Sapa. Trek through terraced rice fields and visit the ethnic minority villages. Explore the charming town of Dalat, known for its cool climate and beautiful landscapes. Don't miss the stunning Ban Gioc Waterfall, located on the border with China.