In the morning, start your trip by visiting the iconic Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and the historic Central Post Office. Take a stroll at the 30/4 Park and experience local life. In the afternoon, explore the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history. As the evening approaches, explore the vibrant Bui Vien Street, filled with restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.
Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica: Entry is free, estimated time: 1 hour
Central Post Office: Entry is free, estimated time: 30 minutes
War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee of 40,000 VND (approximately $1.75), estimated time: 2 hours
Bui Vien Street: Cost varies (estimated $10-$20 for food and drinks), estimated time: evening
Tuesday, December 26: Exploring Hanoi
Start your day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and learn about the country's beloved leader. Explore the serene Temple of Literature and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. In the afternoon, take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple. End your day by exploring the bustling Old Quarter, filled with street markets and cultural sights.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Free entry but restricted clothing rules apply, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Temple of Literature: Entrance fee of 30,000 VND (approximately $1.30), estimated time: 1 hour
Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple: Free entry, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Exploring Old Quarter: Cost varies (estimated $10-$20 for food and souvenirs), estimated time: evening
Wednesday, December 27: Tranquil Da Nang
Start your day by visiting the beautiful Marble Mountains, known for their caves and pagodas. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the Dragon Bridge and have lunch by the Han River. In the afternoon, explore the serene Linh Ung Pagoda and relax at My Khe Beach. End your day with a visit to the Han Market for some shopping and delicious street food.
Han Market: Cost varies (estimated $10-$20 for shopping and food), estimated time: evening
Thursday, December 28: Enchanting Hue
Start your day by exploring the Imperial City and the Royal Tombs, immersing yourself in Vietnam's rich history. Take a scenic boat ride on the Perfume River and visit Thien Mu Pagoda. Enjoy delicious local cuisine for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the vibrant Dong Ba Market for shopping and try some street food specialties.
Thien Mu Pagoda: Free entry, estimated time: 30 minutes
Dong Ba Market: Cost varies (estimated $10-$20 for shopping and food), estimated time: evening
Friday, December 29: Mesmerizing Nha Trang
Start your day with a visit to Po Nagar Cham Towers, an ancient temple complex. Head to Long Son Pagoda and admire the giant Buddha statue. Relax by lounging at Nha Trang Beach and indulge in delicious seafood for lunch. In the afternoon, explore the Oceanographic Institute and take a boat trip to Mun Island for snorkeling.
Po Nagar Cham Towers: Entrance fee of 22,000 VND (approximately $0.95), estimated time: 1-2 hours
Long Son Pagoda: Free entry, estimated time: 30 minutes
Boat trip to Mun Island: Cost varies depending on the tour, estimated time: 3-4 hours
Saturday, December 30: Thriving Can Tho
Start your day by exploring the fascinating Cai Rang Floating Market and witness the vibrant trading of goods on the river. Take a boat tour through the canals and visit the charming rural villages. Head to Binh Thuy Ancient House and immerse yourself in its unique architecture. Enjoy delicious Mekong Delta cuisine for lunch.
Cai Rang Floating Market: Free to visit, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Boat tour through canals: Cost varies, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Binh Thuy Ancient House: Entrance fee of 15,000 VND (approximately $0.65), estimated time: 1-2 hours
Start your day by exploring the picturesque Sao Beach and enjoying the sun, sand, and crystal-clear waters. Visit the Dinh Cau Night Market in the evening for shopping, street food, and live music. As midnight approaches, head to one of the beachfront bars to celebrate the New Year with fireworks and festivities.
Sao Beach: Free entry, estimated time: 2-4 hours
Dinh Cau Night Market: Cost varies (estimated $10-$20 for shopping and food), estimated time: evening
New Year's Eve Beachfront Celebrations: Free to attend, estimated time: until midnight
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, explore the hidden gem of Hoi An's Ancient Town. Marvel at the well-preserved architecture, indulge in delicious local dishes like Cao Lau, and enjoy the evening lantern festival. If you're a coffee lover, visit the charming coffee shops in Da Lat, known as the "City of Eternal Spring." Sip on Vietnamese coffee while taking in the scenic beauty of the region.