Welcome to Vietnam, a country that offers a mix of stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. This 5-day itinerary will take you through some of the highlights of this beautiful country, all while staying within a medium budget.
Start your trip by exploring the bustling capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, wander through the historic Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets filled with shops and street food vendors. Don't miss a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or even catch a traditional water puppet show. For lunch, indulge in some delicious Vietnamese pho at one of the city's many renowned pho stalls. As the evening approaches, head to the famous 'Train Street,' where you can witness the unique sight of a train passing through a narrow residential street.
On the second day, embark on a day trip to the famous Ha Long Bay. Marvel at the breathtaking natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site as you cruise through the towering limestone karsts and emerald waters. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board and take the opportunity to kayak or swim in the bay. In the afternoon, explore one of the stunning caves within the bay, such as Sung Sot Cave. As the sun sets, head back to Hanoi and savor some traditional Vietnamese cuisine for dinner.
Catch a flight from Hanoi to the charming town of Hoi An. Spend the morning exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient Town, filled with well-preserved buildings, Japanese covered bridges, and colorful lanterns. Don't miss the opportunity to get tailor-made clothes or shoes from one of the many talented local tailors. In the afternoon, take a bike ride along the picturesque countryside or relax on the beautiful An Bang Beach. As the sun sets, wander through the night market and sample local street food.
Take a morning drive from Hoi An to the former imperial capital of Hue. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Imperial City, a sprawling complex of palaces, temples, and tombs. As you wander through the historical sites, gain insight into the country's fascinating history. Don't miss the chance to take a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, offering picturesque views of the city and its landmarks. In the evening, savor some traditional Hue cuisine, known for its delicate flavors.
Catch a morning flight from Hue to the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the economic hub of Vietnam. Start your day by visiting the historic Reunification Palace, which played a pivotal role in Vietnam's history. Explore the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office before indulging in a tasty bowl of pho for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the War Remnants Museum to gain insight into the Vietnam War. End the day with a stroll along the bustling streets of Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and try local street food.
While exploring Vietnam, don't forget to explore some of the hidden gems and local favorites. Venture off the beaten path in Hanoi and try the mouthwatering specialty, bun cha, a grilled pork and noodle dish that locals love. In Hoi An, visit Tra Que Vegetable Village and take part in a cooking class, where you can learn to make authentic Vietnamese dishes using fresh ingredients. As you travel through Hue, consider visiting Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic religious site that offers breathtaking views of the Perfume River. These hidden gems and local favorites will add an extra touch of authenticity to your Vietnam experience.
Before finalizing your trip, check out hotel and flight prices on Kayak.