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 76 travelers

Exploring Vietnam: A 5-Day Adventure

Friday, December 22: Arrival in Hanoi

Start your Vietnam adventure in the bustling capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, explore the historic Old Quarter with its narrow streets and ancient temples. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch, immersing yourself in the local cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, a well-preserved example of Vietnamese architecture. As evening falls, head to Hoan Kiem Lake and witness the magical beauty of the Thap Rua Turtle Tower.

  • Old Quarter: ~$10, 3 hours
  • Temple of Literature: ~$3, 1 hour
  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Pho 10, known for their flavorful and authentic Vietnamese pho. The average cost for a meal is about 50,000 VND per person.
  • For lunch, head to Bun Cha Huong Lien, where you can try the famous grilled pork noodle dish enjoyed by President Obama. The average cost for a meal is about 70,000 VND per person.
  • Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Quan An Ngon, a popular restaurant offering a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 150,000 VND per person.
Saturday, December 23: Halong Bay Cruise

Embark on a full-day cruise adventure to the breathtaking Halong Bay. Marvel at the limestone karsts protruding from the emerald waters and explore the hidden caves and grottoes. Enjoy a sumptuous seafood lunch on board as you sail amidst the picturesque scenery. In the afternoon, take a kayak tour to discover the bay's hidden gems, and later, relax and watch the sunset over this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Halong Bay Cruise: ~$100, 10 hours
Sunday, December 24: Hoi An Ancient Town

Travel to Hoi An, a charming UNESCO-listed town renowned for its well-preserved architecture and rich cultural heritage. Spend the morning wandering through the narrow streets lined with historic merchant houses and colorful lanterns. After a delicious lunch of local specialties, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation. In the evening, explore the night market and release a traditional lantern onto the Thu Bon River.

  • Hoi An Ancient Town: ~$5, 4 hours
  • Japanese Covered Bridge: ~$1, 1 hour
  • Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation: ~$2, 1 hour
Monday, December 25: Hue Imperial City

Travel to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Begin your day by exploring the grandeur of the Hue Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dive into the history and culture of the Nguyen Dynasty as you wander through palaces, temples, and the Forbidden Purple City. Enjoy a delicious lunch of Hue's famous cuisine, known for its intricate flavors. In the afternoon, take a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River to visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda.

  • Hue Imperial City: ~$6, 4 hours
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: ~$2, 2 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Ho Chi Minh City

Conclude your Vietnam journey in the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon). Start your morning with a visit to the historic Reunification Palace, followed by a stroll through the bustling Ben Thanh Market. Enjoy a delightful Vietnamese lunch at a local eatery and then explore the War Remnants Museum to gain insight into the country's history. As the evening approaches, head to the Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck for panoramic views of the city lights.

  • Reunification Palace: ~$5, 2 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Free, 2 hours
  • War Remnants Museum: ~$2, 2 hours
  • Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck: ~$10, 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Vietnam, don't miss the chance to visit the off the beaten path attractions and experience the local favorites. If you have extra time in Hanoi, take a trip to the peaceful Tran Quoc Pagoda by West Lake, or try the famous egg coffee at one of the city's quaint cafes. In Hoi An, rent a bicycle and cycle through the surrounding countryside for a glimpse of rural life. And in Ho Chi Minh City, venture outside the city center to explore the vibrant street food scene in District 4.

For the best hotel and flight prices in Vietnam, check out Kayak.

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