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 61 travelers

7-Day Itinerary: Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh

Friday, September 22: Hanoi

Start your trip in the bustling city of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. In the morning, explore the historic Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets and traditional architecture. Visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. In the afternoon, delve into Vietnam's history at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. As the evening approaches, indulge in delicious street food at the night market in the Old Quarter.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Free, 2 hours
  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Temple of Literature: 30,000 VND (approx. $1.50), 1-2 hours
  • Old Quarter Night Market: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Pho Bat Dan, a popular local eatery known for their delicious bowls of traditional Vietnamese pho. A meal here costs around 40,000 VND per person.
  • Grab lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien, the famous spot where former US President Barack Obama and the late Anthony Bourdain dined on bun cha. Enjoy this Hanoi specialty of grilled pork served with rice noodles and fresh herbs for approximately 60,000 VND per person.
  • For dinner, try Quan An Ngon, a vibrant restaurant offering a wide range of Vietnamese dishes. From crispy banh xeo to fragrant pho, you can have a satisfying meal here for around 200,000 VND per person.
Saturday, September 23: Hanoi to Da Nang

Fly from Hanoi to Da Nang, a coastal city renowned for its beautiful beaches and stunning landscapes. Spend the morning on My Khe Beach, known for its pristine white sand and clear waters. In the afternoon, explore the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills offering breathtaking views and ancient pagodas. Complete your day by visiting the Dragon Bridge, an iconic landmark that breathes fire on weekends.

  • My Khe Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Marble Mountains: 40,000 VND (approx. $1.75), 2-3 hours
  • Dragon Bridge: Free, 1 hour
Sunday, September 24: Da Nang

Start your day by visiting the enchanting Ba Na Hills, a mountain resort with stunning French-inspired architecture and panoramic views. Take a cable car ride to the Golden Bridge, a unique structure held up by giant stone hands. In the afternoon, explore the Museum of Cham Sculpture, showcasing ancient Cham artifacts. End your day by relaxing on Non Nuoc Beach, known for its calm waters and fine sand.

  • Ba Na Hills: 750,000 VND (approx. $33), 4-5 hours
  • Museum of Cham Sculpture: 40,000 VND (approx. $1.75), 1-2 hours
  • Non Nuoc Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Monday, September 25: Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh

Fly from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant economic hub of Vietnam. Start your day by exploring the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, visit the War Remnants Museum to gain insight into Vietnam's turbulent past. As the evening sets in, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and sample delicious Vietnamese street food.

  • Cu Chi Tunnels: 110,000 VND (approx. $4.80), 3-4 hours
  • War Remnants Museum: 40,000 VND (approx. $1.75), 2-3 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Tuesday, September 26: Ho Chi Minh

Start your day by visiting the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, architectural gems from the French colonial era. Explore the Reunification Palace, an important historical site. In the afternoon, take a stroll along Dong Khoi Street, known for its upscale shops and restaurants. Complete your day with a visit to the Bitexco Financial Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Skydeck.

  • Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Reunification Palace: 40,000 VND (approx. $1.75), 1-2 hours
  • Dong Khoi Street: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  • Bitexco Financial Tower: 200,000 VND (approx. $8.70), 1-2 hours
Wednesday, September 27: Ho Chi Minh

Embark on a day trip to the Mekong Delta, a vast network of rivers and canals. Explore the floating markets and experience the local way of life. Visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist temple with intricate architecture. Enjoy a boat ride along the canals and indulge in fresh tropical fruits. In the evening, savor a traditional Vietnamese dinner and watch a traditional music performance.

  • Mekong Delta Day Trip: 800,000 VND (approx. $35), 8-9 hours
  • Vinh Trang Pagoda: 20,000 VND (approx. $0.87), 1 hour
  • Boat Ride and Floating Markets: Cost varies, 4-5 hours
Thursday, September 28: Ho Chi Minh

On your last day, visit the vibrant Binh Tay Market in the Cholon neighborhood, known as the city's Chinatown. Explore the ornate Thien Hau Temple and soak in the rich Chinese heritage. In the afternoon, explore the quirky alleys and street art of the famous District 4. As the evening sets in, enjoy a dinner cruise along the Saigon River, admiring the city skyline.

  • Binh Tay Market: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  • Thien Hau Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • District 4 Street Art: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Saigon River Dinner Cruise: 500,000 VND (approx. $22), 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While visiting Hanoi, don't miss the hidden gem of Trấn Quốc Pagoda, located on a small island in West Lake. It offers a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views. In Da Nang, locals love spending time at Han River Park, a waterfront park perfect for leisurely walks and cycling. Ho Chi Minh City locals enjoy exploring the vibrant street art scene in the hidden alleys of District 3.

To check hotel and flight prices for your trip, 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