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

A Week Exploring the Natural Beauty of Vietnam

Monday, September 25: Hanoi

Start your trip by exploring the charming capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, visit Hoan Kiem Lake and take a leisurely walk around its tranquil surroundings. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and admire the iconic red bridge leading to Ngoc Son Temple. In the afternoon, discover the history and culture of Vietnam at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. As the evening sets in, head to the bustling Old Quarter and savor the local street food delights.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Entrance fee: 40,000 VND ($1.74 USD), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Old Quarter: Cost: Varies depending on activities, Time spent: Evening
Tuesday, September 26: Ha Long Bay

Embark on a breathtaking journey to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Ha Long Bay. Explore the stunning limestone karsts, emerald waters, and hidden caves on a full-day cruise. Enjoy activities like kayaking, swimming, and visiting floating fishing villages. As the evening arrives, witness a magical sunset over the bay and indulge in a delicious seafood dinner on board.

  • Ha Long Bay Cruise: Cost: Varies depending on the cruise operator, Time spent: Full day
Wednesday, September 27: Ninh Binh

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Halong Bay on land." In the morning, explore the stunning Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, by taking a boat tour through the limestone caves and scenic landscapes. Afterward, visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and learn about Vietnam's history. In the afternoon, take a leisurely bike ride through the picturesque countryside and witness the beauty of rice paddies and limestone peaks.

  • Trang An Grottoes: Entrance fee: 200,000 VND ($8.70 USD), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Entrance fee: 20,000 VND ($0.87 USD), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Bike rental: Cost: 50,000 VND ($2.18 USD), Time spent: Afternoon
Thursday, September 28: Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Discover the natural wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Begin your day by exploring the mesmerizing Paradise Cave, an incredible underground wonderland with magnificent stalactites and stalagmites. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling adventure to the Dark Cave, where you can kayak, zipline, and swim in its crystal-clear waters. End the day with a relaxing boat ride along the Son River, taking in the scenic landscapes.

  • Paradise Cave: Entrance fee: 250,000 VND ($10.88 USD), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Dark Cave Adventure: Entrance fee: 450,000 VND ($19.56 USD), Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Boat ride along Son River: Cost: 200,000 VND ($8.70 USD), Time spent: Evening
Friday, September 29: Hoi An

Explore the ancient town of Hoi An, known for its well-preserved historic architecture and charming atmosphere. In the morning, wander through the narrow streets lined with colorful lanterns and traditional buildings. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, the iconic symbol of Hoi An, and explore the ancient houses-turned-museums. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride along the Thu Bon River and enjoy the scenic views. End the day with a visit to An Bang Beach for a serene sunset experience.

  • Japanese Covered Bridge: Entrance fee: 150,000 VND ($6.52 USD), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Boat ride along Thu Bon River: Cost: 150,000 VND ($6.52 USD), Time spent: Afternoon
  • An Bang Beach: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: Evening
Saturday, September 30: Da Lat

Escape to the cool highlands of Da Lat, often called the "City of Eternal Spring." In the morning, explore the vibrant Da Lat Flower Park, filled with colorful blooms and picturesque landscapes. Visit the Truc Lam Zen Monastery and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views of Tuyen Lam Lake. In the afternoon, venture into the lush surrounding countryside, visit the Datanla Waterfall, and take a thrilling ride on the Alpine Coaster. End the day with a visit to the Night Market, where you can sample local delicacies.

  • Da Lat Flower Park: Entrance fee: 40,000 VND ($1.74 USD), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Truc Lam Zen Monastery: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Datanla Waterfall: Entrance fee: 20,000 VND ($0.87 USD), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Alpine Coaster: Cost: 30,000 VND ($1.30 USD), Time spent: 1 hour
  • Night Market: Cost: Varies depending on purchases, Time spent: Evening
Sunday, October 1: Phu Quoc Island

Experience the tropical paradise of Phu Quoc Island. In the morning, relax and soak up the sun at Long Beach, one of the island's most beautiful stretches of sand. Explore the vibrant underwater world by snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, visit Phu Quoc National Park and take a hike through the lush rainforest, discovering unique flora and fauna. As the sun sets, enjoy a seafood feast at one of the local beachside restaurants.

  • Long Beach: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: Morning
  • Snorkeling/Diving: Cost: Varies depending on package, Time spent: Morning/Afternoon
  • Phu Quoc National Park: Entrance fee: 40,000 VND ($1.74 USD), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Seafood dinner: Cost: Varies depending on restaurant, Time spent: Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature lovers, don't miss the opportunity to visit Bach Ma National Park in central Vietnam. It offers stunning hiking trails, breathtaking waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Another off-the-beaten-path destination is Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a pristine area known for its terraced rice fields, traditional villages, and trekking opportunities. Locals often escape to these hidden gems to reconnect with nature and experience the tranquility of Vietnam's natural landscapes.

For checking hotel and flight prices, please click here.

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