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 71 travelers

A Week in Vietnam: Exploring the Land of Natural Beauty

Saturday November 18: Ho Chi Minh City

In the morning, start your journey in Ho Chi Minh City by visiting the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, a beautiful example of French colonial architecture. Afterward, explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. In the evening, soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling Ben Thanh Market, known for its street food and local handicrafts.

  • Notre-Dame Cathedral: Entrance fee: $2, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Cu Chi Tunnels: Entrance fee: $5, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunday November 19: Hoi An

Discover the charming ancient town of Hoi An. Start your day with a visit to the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An. Explore the narrow streets filled with traditional houses and art galleries. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River to enjoy the countryside scenery. End your day by trying local specialties at one of Hoi An's renowned restaurants.

  • Japanese Covered Bridge: Entrance fee: $1, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Boat ride on Thu Bon River: Price: $10 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Local restaurant: Cost estimate: $15 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
Monday November 20: Ha Long Bay

Embark on a cruise to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. Spend the day exploring the bay, visiting caves, and kayaking. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner on board as you watch the sunset over the bay.

  • Ha Long Bay Cruise: Cost estimate: $100 per person, Time spent: Full day
Tuesday November 21: Hanoi

In the morning, explore the vibrant capital city of Hanoi. Start with a visit to the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the nearby One Pillar Pagoda. Afterward, wander through the charming streets of the Old Quarter, known for its narrow alleys and traditional architecture. In the evening, watch a traditional water puppet show, a unique Vietnamese art form.

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • One Pillar Pagoda: Free entry, Time spent: 30 minutes
  • Old Quarter: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Water puppet show: Price: $5-10, Time spent: 1 hour
Wednesday November 22: Ninh Binh

Travel to Ninh Binh, often referred to as the "Halong Bay on land." Start your day by exploring the Trang An Landscape Complex, a scenic area known for its caves, limestone mountains, and tranquil boat rides. In the afternoon, visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where you can explore the historic temples. End the day with a relaxing bike ride through the picturesque countryside.

  • Trang An Landscape Complex: Entrance fee: $10, Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Entrance fee: $2, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Bike rental: Cost estimate: $5, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Thursday November 23: Hue

Discover the imperial city of Hue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Start your day with a visit to the Imperial Citadel, a vast complex of palaces, temples, and gardens. Explore the Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic seven-story pagoda overlooking the Perfume River. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the river to visit the royal tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty. Sample Hue's famous cuisine for dinner.

  • Imperial Citadel: Entrance fee: $5, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: Free entry, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Royal Tomb boat tour: Cost estimate: $15 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Hue cuisine: Cost estimate: $10-15 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Friday November 24: Phu Quoc Island

On your last day, fly to Phu Quoc Island, known for its pristine beaches and stunning sunsets. Spend the day relaxing on the beach, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, or exploring the island's lush forests. Enjoy a seafood feast at one of the beachfront restaurants as you bid farewell to Vietnam.

  • Beach relaxation: Free, Time spent: Full day
  • Snorkeling excursion: Cost estimate: $20-30 per person, Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Seafood dinner: Cost estimate: $20-30 per person, Time spent: 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, venture to the stunning Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang Province. Explore the breathtaking terraced rice fields in Sapa, where you can also immerse yourself in the unique local culture. Don't miss the charming town of Dalat, known for its cool climate, beautiful flowers, and coffee plantations. These hidden treasures offer a glimpse into the authentic beauty of Vietnam.

Check here for hotel and flight prices.

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