Vietnam 5-Day Itinerary: October 21-25, 2023

Saturday, October 21: Exploring Hanoi

Start your trip by exploring the vibrant city of Hanoi. In the morning, visit Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Take a stroll around the lake, admire the Turtle Tower, and visit Ngoc Son Temple. Enjoy a delicious bowl of pho for lunch, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup.

• Hoan Kiem Lake: Admission is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Ngoc Son Temple: Admission fee: VND 30,000 (approximately $1.30), estimated time spent: 1 hour
• Lunch at Pho Gia Truyen: Estimated cost: VND 50,000-70,000 (approximately $2.20-$3.00), estimated time spent: 1 hour

In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, and immerse yourself in the country's rich history. Explore the Hanoi Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets, bustling markets, and traditional architecture. In the evening, head to Bia Hoi corner and try the local draft beer.

• Temple of Literature: Admission fee: VND 30,000 (approximately $1.30), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Exploring Hanoi Old Quarter: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Enjoy Bia Hoi at Bia Hoi corner: Estimated cost: VND 10,000-15,000 (approximately $0.50-$0.70) per glass, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 22: Halong Bay Cruise

Embark on a breathtaking cruise adventure to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend the day exploring the stunning limestone karsts, hidden caves, and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a seafood lunch on the boat while taking in the spectacular scenery.

• Halong Bay Cruise: Tour packages range from $50 to $150 per person, estimated time spent: full day

Monday, October 23: Hoi An Ancient Town

Travel to Hoi An, a charming and well-preserved ancient town. In the morning, explore the narrow streets lined with historic houses, temples, and pagodas. Don't miss the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An.

• Exploring Hoi An Ancient Town: Admission fee: VND 120,000 (approximately $5.20), estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
• Japanese Covered Bridge: Admission fee: VND 20,000 (approximately $0.90), estimated time spent: 30 minutes

In the afternoon, visit Tra Que Vegetable Village and learn about traditional Vietnamese farming practices. Take part in a cooking class and enjoy a delicious meal made with fresh ingredients. In the evening, wander through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and soak in the romantic atmosphere.

• Tra Que Vegetable Village: Admission fee (including cooking class): VND 200,000 (approximately $8.70), estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
• Exploring Hoi An at night: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Tuesday, October 24: Cu Chi Tunnels and Saigon City

Start the day by visiting the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network used by Vietnamese soldiers during the Vietnam War. Learn about the tunnels' significance and explore a section of the tunnels.

• Cu Chi Tunnels: Admission fee: VND 110,000 (approximately $4.80), estimated time spent: 3-4 hours

In the afternoon, fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and dive into its vibrant atmosphere. Visit the War Remnants Museum to gain insight into Vietnam's history. Take a stroll along Dong Khoi Street, known for its high-end shops and historic buildings. End the day with a visit to the bustling Ben Thanh Market.

• Flight from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City: Prices vary, check flight prices
• War Remnants Museum: Admission fee: VND 40,000 (approximately $1.70), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Exploring Dong Khoi Street: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Wednesday, October 25: Mekong Delta Tour

Embark on a memorable Mekong Delta tour and discover the beauty of the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. Cruise along the river, visit local villages, and experience the unique floating markets. Learn about the traditional way of life in the delta region.

• Mekong Delta Tour: Tour packages range from $20 to $50 per person, estimated time spent: full day

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those looking to explore off the beaten path, consider visiting Tam Coc in Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Halong Bay on Land." Explore the stunning limestone caves and enjoy a boat ride through rice paddies and karst formations. Another hidden gem is the city of Hue, known for its Imperial City and historical sites.