7-Day Itinerary in Vietnam

Wednesday, October 18: Ho Chi Minh City

Start your trip by exploring the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. In the morning, visit the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office. Afternoon is perfect for delving into Vietnam's history at the War Remnants Museum. As the evening sets in, explore the vibrant nightlife at Bui Vien Street, known for its bars, clubs, and street food.

• Notre-Dame Cathedral: Entrance is free, approximately 30 minutes
• Central Post Office: Entrance is free, approximately 30 minutes
• War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee around 40,000 VND ($1.75), allow 2 hours
• Bui Vien Street: Cost varies depending on activities, spend as much time as desired

Thursday, October 19: Hoi An

Travel to the charming ancient town of Hoi An. In the morning, wander through the picturesque streets lined with traditional yellow houses. In the afternoon, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and explore the local markets. As the evening sets in, experience the magical atmosphere of the lantern-lit streets and enjoy delicious local cuisine along the riverside.

• Japanese Covered Bridge: Entrance fee around 120,000 VND ($5.25), approximately 1 hour
• Local Markets: Cost depends on purchases, spend as much time as desired
• Riverside Dining: Cost varies depending on the restaurant, spend as much time as desired

Friday, October 20: Hue

Head to the imperial city of Hue. In the morning, explore the grandeur of the Imperial Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City. Afternoon is perfect for a boat trip along the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda. As the evening sets in, indulge in Hue's famous cuisine, known for its traditional royal dishes.

• Imperial Citadel: Entrance fee around 150,000 VND ($6.50), allow 2 hours
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Entrance is free, approximately 1 hour
• Hue Cuisine: Cost depends on the restaurant, spend as much time as desired

Saturday, October 21: Ha Long Bay

Embark on a breathtaking journey to Ha Long Bay. In the morning, board a traditional junk boat and cruise through the stunning limestone islands. Enjoy a seafood lunch on the boat. Explore the hidden caves and take a kayak tour in the afternoon. As the evening sets in, witness a magical sunset over the emerald waters.

• Junk Boat Cruise: Cost varies depending on the package, full day excursion
• Kayak Tour: Cost varies depending on the operator, approximately 2 hours

Sunday, October 22: Hanoi

Discover the bustling capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. Explore the vibrant Old Quarter in the afternoon, filled with narrow streets and traditional shops. As the evening sets in, savor the flavors of Vietnamese street food on a food tour.

• Hoan Kiem Lake: Entrance is free, approximately 1 hour
• Ngoc Son Temple: Entrance fee around 30,000 VND ($1.30), approximately 30 minutes
• Food Tour: Cost varies depending on the tour, spend as much time as desired

Monday, October 23: Sapa

Escape to the breathtaking mountain landscapes of Sapa. In the morning, embark on a trekking adventure to explore the terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages. Enjoy a picnic lunch in nature. Afternoon is perfect for immersing in the local culture by interacting with the friendly locals. As the evening sets in, relax in a traditional homestay and savor a homemade dinner.

• Trekking Adventure: Cost varies depending on the tour, full day excursion
• Interaction with Locals: Cost varies depending on activities, spend as much time as desired
• Homestay: Cost varies depending on accommodation, spend the night

Tuesday, October 24: Mekong Delta

End your trip with a visit to the enchanting Mekong Delta region. In the morning, explore the floating markets and lush fruit orchards. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch by the riverside. Afternoon is perfect for a boat cruise along the canals and a visit to a local coconut candy factory. As the evening sets in, bid farewell to Vietnam with a sunset river cruise.

• Floating Markets: Cost depends on purchases, approximately 2 hours
• Boat Cruise: Cost depends on the package, full day excursion
• Coconut Candy Factory: Entrance is free, approximately 1 hour
• Sunset River Cruise: Cost varies depending on the operator, approximately 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Vietnam, don't miss the opportunity to explore the hidden gems and experience what the locals love. Take a motorbike tour through the narrow streets of Hanoi's alleyways, sample the famous egg coffee in a cozy cafe, or venture off the beaten path to the remote island of Phu Quoc for pristine beaches and fresh seafood.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices on Kayak.