Welcome to Vietnam! Start your romantic journey in the bustling city of Hanoi. In the morning, explore the charming Old Quarter with its narrow streets and traditional architecture. Enjoy a delicious street food lunch at Bún chả Hương Liên, famously visited by former President Barack Obama. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and witness the beautiful Turtle Tower illuminated by the city lights.
Old Quarter: Estimated cost: $5. Time spent: 3 hours
Temple of Literature: Estimated cost: $2. Time spent: 1 hour
Hoan Kiem Lake: Free. Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Banh Mi 25, a popular breakfast spot known for their delicious Vietnamese sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 50,000 VND per person.
For lunch, head to Pho Thin for a bowl of traditional Vietnamese pho. Their flavorful broth and tender beef are simply irresistible. Average cost for a meal is about 70,000 VND per person.
Indulge in a romantic dinner at The Gourmet Corner, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of Hanoi's skyline. Enjoy their mouthwatering international menu while sipping on fine wines. Average cost for a meal is about 500,000 VND per person.
Friday, December 8: Cruising in Halong Bay
Embark on a romantic adventure as you head to Halong Bay. Take a scenic cruise through the emerald waters, surrounded by limestone karsts and floating villages. Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch on the boat. Explore the stunning caves and go kayaking among the karsts. Enjoy a mesmerizing sunset on the deck before spending the night in a cozy cabin.
Halong Bay Cruise: Estimated cost: $100 per person. Time spent: Full day
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Nola, a charming restaurant known for its delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere with an average cost of about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Quan An Ngon, where you can experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a vibrant street food-style setting. Try their famous banh mi or pho while enjoying the lively atmosphere. The average cost for a meal here is about $15 per person.
Indulge in a romantic dinner at Home Finest Saigon, a beautiful restaurant offering a fusion of Vietnamese and international flavors. With a cozy ambiance and impeccable service, this fine dining experience comes at an average cost of $50 per person.
Saturday, December 9: Exploring Hoi An
Travel to the charming city of Hoi An, known for its well-preserved ancient town. In the morning, wander through the narrow streets lined with beautiful lanterns and traditional buildings. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation. Enjoy a romantic sunset boat ride along the Thu Bon River and release lanterns into the water for good luck.
Hoi An Ancient Town: Estimated cost: $5. Time spent: 4 hours
Japanese Covered Bridge: Estimated cost: $2. Time spent: 1 hour
Boat Ride on Thu Bon River: Estimated cost: $10. Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious Vietnamese breakfast at Morning Glory, known for its traditional dishes such as banh mi and pho. Average cost for a meal is about 80,000 VND per person.
For a tasty lunch, try Ganesh Indian Restaurant, offering a wide range of flavorful Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 200,000 VND per person.
Indulge in a romantic dinner at Mango Rooms, a fusion restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere and a menu combining Vietnamese and international flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 400,000 VND per person.
Sunday, December 10: Serenity in Phu Quoc
Escape to the idyllic island of Phu Quoc. Relax on the stunning white sandy beaches and soak up the tropical paradise atmosphere. Explore the Phu Quoc National Park, go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, and indulge in fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant. Enjoy the evening by watching the mesmerizing sunset at Dinh Cau Night Market.
Phu Quoc Beaches: Free. Time spent: Full day
Phu Quoc National Park: Estimated cost: $5. Time spent: 2 hours
Dinh Cau Night Market: Estimated cost: $10. Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
A cozy beachfront café serving a variety of breakfast dishes, including freshly baked pastries and traditional Vietnamese Pho. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
An open-air seafood restaurant offering a wide selection of local delicacies, such as grilled fish and prawns. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
A romantic rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the ocean, serving a fusion of Vietnamese and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Monday, December 11: Enchanting Da Lat
Head to the charming highland city of Da Lat, often referred to as the "City of Eternal Spring." In the morning, visit the picturesque Valley of Love and enjoy a romantic picnic amidst the beautiful flowers. Explore the French-inspired architecture and vibrant flower market in the city center. In the evening, savor a cozy dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Valley of Love: Estimated cost: $2. Time spent: 3 hours
City Center: Free. Time spent: 2 hours
Dinner at Local Restaurant: Estimated cost: $20. Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try Binh Anh Garden Cafe, a charming café with a tranquil garden setting. Indulge in their delicious breakfast options like eggs benedict and fresh juices. The average cost for a meal is about 120,000 VND per person.
For lunch, visit Nha Hang Hong Loan, a family-owned restaurant serving authentic Vietnamese dishes. Enjoy their mouthwatering pho and spring rolls. The average cost for a meal is about 150,000 VND per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to a romantic meal at Ngon Villa, a beautiful villa-style restaurant known for its delectable Vietnamese cuisine. Try their signature dishes like grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves and crispy rice pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about 300,000 VND per person.
Tuesday, December 12: Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City
Travel to the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. In the morning, visit the historic Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history. Explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market and indulge in delicious street food for lunch. In the evening, take a romantic sunset cruise along the Saigon River.
Reunification Palace: Estimated cost: $5. Time spent: 2 hours
War Remnants Museum: Estimated cost: $2. Time spent: 2 hours
Ben Thanh Market: Free. Time spent: 2 hours
Sunset Cruise on Saigon River: Estimated cost: $20. Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Cuc Gach Quan, a charming breakfast spot serving traditional Vietnamese dishes. Enjoy their famous Pho or Banh Mi for around $5 per person.
For lunch, head to Nha Hang Ngon, a popular restaurant offering a wide variety of Vietnamese street food. Try their delicious spring rolls or Vietnamese pancakes, with prices averaging around $10 per person.
In the evening, dine at the stylish and romantic Noir. This unique dining experience combines gourmet food and sensory deprivation, with a price tag of approximately $30 per person.
Wednesday, December 13: Mekong Delta Excursion
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the Mekong Delta. Explore the floating markets and witness the vibrant river life. Visit local fruit orchards and enjoy tropical fruits in the countryside. Take a boat ride through the lush canals and savor a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local homestay. In the afternoon, return to Ho Chi Minh City for a farewell dinner.
Mekong Delta Tour: Estimated cost: $50 per person. Time spent: Full day
Farewell Dinner: Estimated cost: $30. Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
The Secret Garden: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Secret Garden, a cozy restaurant located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. With its charming atmosphere and extensive menu, you can enjoy a variety of breakfast options, from traditional Vietnamese pho to Western-style pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
My Tho Restaurant: For a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine, head to My Tho Restaurant for your lunch. Located near the Mekong Delta, this restaurant offers a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes and local specialties. Indulge in flavorful dishes like banh xeo (Vietnamese pancake) and mi vit tiem (duck noodle soup). The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Cuu Long Restaurant: End your day with a romantic dinner at Cuu Long Restaurant, a charming riverside eatery overlooking the Mekong Delta. Enjoy a candlelit dinner while savoring delectable Vietnamese dishes such as ca kho to (caramelized fish in clay pot) and bo luc lac (shaking beef). The average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique honeymoon experience, consider visiting the remote island of Phu Quy. This hidden gem is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and untouched natural beauty. It offers a peaceful and secluded atmosphere, perfect for a romantic getaway. Another local favorite is Ha Giang Province, located in the northern part of Vietnam. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and ethnic minority cultures, Ha Giang offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure with stunning mountain passes and picturesque rice terraces.