Start your trip in the bustling city of Hanoi. In the morning, visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and take a leisurely stroll through the Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets and colonial architecture. In the afternoon, explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, and learn about its rich history. As the evening sets in, experience the vibrant nightlife at Ta Hien Street, where you can enjoy local street food and drinks.
Hoan Kiem Lake: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Old Quarter: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Temple of Literature: Entrance fee around 30,000 VND ($1.30), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Ta Hien Street: Cost of food and drinks varies, estimated time spent: Evening
Restaurants
Start your day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Pho 10, a popular restaurant known for its flavorful pho noodle soup. Average cost for a meal is about 70,000 VND (3 USD) per person.
For lunch, head to Bun Cha Huong Lien, where you can taste the famous Hanoi dish, bun cha. This restaurant gained international fame when former U.S President Barack Obama visited. Average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND (4.50 USD) per person.
In the evening, indulge in a delicious seafood dinner at Quan An Ngon. This restaurant offers a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes, cooked to perfection. Average cost for a meal is about 300,000 VND (13 USD) per person.
Sunday, November 26: Halong Bay
Embark on an unforgettable cruise in the stunning Halong Bay. In the morning, take a scenic drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay and board your cruise ship. Spend the afternoon cruising through the emerald waters, marveling at the limestone karsts and exploring hidden caves. As the evening approaches, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner onboard and witness the breathtaking sunset over the bay.
Halong Bay Cruise: Cost varies depending on the package, estimated time spent: Full day
Monday, November 27: Hoi An
Travel to the charming town of Hoi An. In the morning, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient Town, known for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant lanterns. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, stroll along the Thu Bon River, and indulge in local delicacies. In the afternoon, take a bicycle ride to the nearby countryside and experience the peaceful rural life. As the evening approaches, join a lantern-making workshop and release your handmade lantern on the river.
Ancient Town: Entrance fee around 120,000 VND ($5.20), estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
Bicycle Ride: Rental fee around 50,000 VND ($2.20), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Lantern-Making Workshop: Cost varies, estimated time spent: Evening
Tuesday, November 28: Hue
Discover the imperial city of Hue. In the morning, visit the magnificent Hue Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its palaces, temples, and museums. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and enjoy the scenic views. As the evening sets in, savor the local cuisine at one of the riverside restaurants.
Hue Citadel: Entrance fee around 150,000 VND ($6.50), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Boat Ride on Perfume River: Cost varies, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Thien Mu Pagoda: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Riverside Restaurant: Cost varies, estimated time spent: Evening
Wednesday, November 29: Nha Trang
Relax and unwind in the coastal city of Nha Trang. In the morning, soak up the sun on the beautiful Nha Trang Beach and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, visit the Vinpearl Land amusement park and enjoy thrilling rides and attractions. As the evening approaches, indulge in fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants.
Nha Trang Beach: Free to visit, estimated time spent: Morning
Vinpearl Land: Entrance fee around 600,000 VND ($26), estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
Beachfront Restaurant: Cost varies, estimated time spent: Evening
Thursday, November 30: Ho Chi Minh City
Explore the vibrant metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. In the morning, visit the historic Reunification Palace and gain insights into Vietnam's modern history. In the afternoon, discover the War Remnants Museum and learn about the Vietnam War. As the evening sets in, explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and variety of goods.
Reunification Palace: Entrance fee around 40,000 VND ($1.70), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee around 40,000 VND ($1.70), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Ben Thanh Market: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Friday, December 1: Mekong Delta
Experience the tranquility of the Mekong Delta. In the morning, take a boat ride along the Mekong River and visit the floating markets, where locals trade goods from their boats. In the afternoon, explore the lush fruit orchards and enjoy tropical fruits. As the evening approaches, cruise back to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy a farewell dinner.
Mekong Delta Boat Ride: Cost varies, estimated time spent: Full day
Floating Markets: Free to visit, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Fruit Orchards: Entrance fee around 50,000 VND ($2.20), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Farewell Dinner: Cost varies, estimated time spent: Evening
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious and authentic Vietnamese breakfast at Pho 24. Sample their famous pho, a savory noodle soup, or try their banh mi, a flavorful sandwich. Average cost for a meal is about 50,000 VND per person.
Lunch: For a satisfying lunch, head to Com Nieu Saigon. This restaurant is known for their delicious and fragrant Vietnamese rice dishes, such as com tam and com ga. Average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
Dinner: Indulge in the flavors of Vietnam at Cuc Gach Quan. This restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and serves traditional Vietnamese dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Don't miss their signature clay pot dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200,000 VND per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Hanoi, don't miss the opportunity to visit the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda, located on a small island in West Lake. It offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. In Hoi An, explore the Cam Thanh Coconut Village and learn about traditional fishing techniques. Lastly, in Ho Chi Minh City, take a walk along the vibrant Nguyen Hue Walking Street and enjoy the lively atmosphere.