Vietnam: 7-Day Itinerary

Explore the beauty of Vietnam with this exciting 7-day itinerary starting on Sunday, December 31, 2023. Discover fascinating cities, indulge in authentic cuisine, and experience the rich culture and history of this amazing country. Check hotel and flight prices here.

Sunday, December 31: Hanoi

In the morning, visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and explore the ancient streets of the Old Quarter. Enjoy a delicious bowl of pho for lunch and witness a traditional water puppet show in the afternoon. In the evening, head to Dong Xuan Night Market for some shopping and street food.

• Hoan Kiem Lake: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Old Quarter: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Water Puppet Show: Cost - $5, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Dong Xuan Night Market: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours

Monday, January 1: Halong Bay

Embark on a breathtaking cruise in Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the limestone karsts, enjoy swimming and kayaking, and indulge in a seafood feast on the boat. Witness the mesmerizing sunset over the bay before spending the night on the cruise.

• Halong Bay Cruise: Cost - $100, Time Spent - Full Day

Tuesday, January 2: Hue

Explore the historical city of Hue. Visit the Imperial City, home to ancient palaces and temples, and take a boat ride along the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda. In the evening, enjoy a traditional royal dinner at a local restaurant.

• Imperial City: Cost - $10, Time Spent - 4 hours
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Royal Dinner: Cost - $20, Time Spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, January 3: Hoi An

Take a scenic drive to Hoi An and explore its charming ancient town. Stroll along the lantern-lit streets, visit beautifully preserved merchant houses, and shop for handmade crafts and tailor-made clothing. Enjoy a delicious local dinner by the riverside.

• Hoi An Ancient Town: Cost - $5, Time Spent - 4 hours
• Shopping in Hoi An: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Riverside Dinner: Cost - $15, Time Spent - 2 hours

Thursday, January 4: Nha Trang

Spend the day relaxing on the stunning beaches of Nha Trang. Indulge in water activities like snorkeling and diving, or simply soak up the sun. In the afternoon, visit the famous Po Nagar Cham Towers, a symbol of the Cham civilization.

• Nha Trang Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - Full Day
• Po Nagar Cham Towers: Cost - $3, Time Spent - 2 hours

Friday, January 5: Ho Chi Minh City

Explore the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the War Remnants Museum. In the evening, experience the bustling nightlife of the city.

• Notre-Dame Cathedral: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Central Post Office: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• War Remnants Museum: Cost - $2, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - Evening

Saturday, January 6: Mekong Delta

Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta and explore the picturesque waterways, lush rice paddies, and floating markets. Enjoy a boat ride along the river, try tropical fruits, and learn about the local way of life. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

• Mekong Delta Tour: Cost - $30, Time Spent - Full Day

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Don't miss out on off the beaten path attractions and places beloved by the locals. Visit the enchanting Lantern Town of Hoi An during the Full Moon Lantern Festival, where the streets are adorned with colorful lanterns and traditional performances take place. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, an intricate underground network used during the Vietnam War, offering a glimpse into the country's history.