Begin your adventure in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Head to the War Remnants Museum to learn more about the country's history during the Vietnam War. Afterwards, visit the Ben Thanh Market to try some delicious street food and buy souvenirs. End the day with a visit to the Bitexco Financial Tower for a stunning panoramic view of the city.
Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta to explore the charming villages, floating markets and fruit orchards. Try some fresh tropical fruits and watch the locals making handicrafts on the way. Take a boat ride along the Mekong River to get a glimpse of daily life in the delta.
Take a morning flight to Hoi An, a picturesque ancient town recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the old town's sights and architecture such as the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Chinese Assembly Hall. End the day with a scenic boat ride along the Thu Bon River at sunset.
Take a bike tour through the countryside of Hoi An to see the rural life and to visit the Tra Que Vegetable Village. Learn how to cook Vietnamese food at a local family's house. In the afternoon, relax on An Bang Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam.
Travel to the former capital of Vietnam, Hue, known for its historical monuments and landmarks. Visit the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Thien Mu Pagoda, the tallest religious building in Vietnam. End the day with a boat ride along the Perfume River.
Take a morning flight to Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. Visit the Temple of Literature, the first national university of Vietnam and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the father of modern Vietnam lies in state. In the evening, enjoy some street food and watch the Water Puppet Show, a traditional Vietnamese art form.
Take a day trip to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam’s most spectacular natural wonders. Board a traditional junk boat for a cruise around the stunning limestone pillars and visit the Thien Cung Cave. Enjoy a seafood lunch on board before returning to your hotel in Hanoi.
Depart from Vietnam with unforgettable memories of this beautiful country and its people.
Travel between cities will require a combination of flights, taxis, and buses. Budget airlines like VietJet and Jetstar Pacific offer affordable flights between major cities. Private transfers or taxis can be arranged upon request. Consider booking tours that include transportation to get the best value. Domestic flights are expected to cost 800,000 - 1,500,000 VND per person and a taxi ride within a city center should cost around 50,000 - 100,000 VND for a short ride.
If you have more time, consider adding trekking in Sapa or a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. If you have less time, consider skipping Hue or Halong Bay. Vietnam can be a budget-friendly destination, but be sure to exercise caution when booking tours and activities to avoid scams. Try to learn some basic Vietnamese phrases to communicate with the locals and enhance your travel experience.
Vietnam has several international airports including Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang International Airport (DAD) in Da Nang. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are the main hubs for domestic flights to other cities in Vietnam. All airports are well-connected to the city centers by taxis and airport shuttles.