Kickstart your Vietnam journey by exploring Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. In the morning, visit the historic Reunification Palace to delve into Vietnam's rich history. Afterward, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and taste local street food. As the evening approaches, take a stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street and admire the dazzling city lights.
On the second day, fly to Hoi An, a charming town renowned for its well-preserved ancient architecture. Begin your morning with a visit to the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An. Explore the narrow streets lined with colorful lanterns and discover local tailor shops, where you can have bespoke clothing made. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and witness traditional fishing techniques. As the sun sets, head to An Bang Beach for a tranquil evening by the sea.
Board a morning train to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Begin your day at the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its magnificent palaces and temples. Afterward, embark on a boat trip along the Perfume River to discover the Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic symbol of Hue. In the afternoon, visit the Tomb of Minh Mang, surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Conclude the day with a leisurely cruise back to the city as you admire the sunset.
Fly to Hanoi and embark on an unforgettable journey to Halong Bay. Begin with a scenic cruise through the emerald waters, surrounded by towering limestone karsts. Enjoy a seafood lunch on the boat and explore magnificent caves, such as Sung Sot Cave or Thien Cung Cave. In the evening, experience a cooking class onboard and indulge in a sumptuous dinner while gazing at the starlit sky.
Discover the charm of Vietnam's capital city, Hanoi. Start your day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and gain insights into the life of Vietnam's revolutionary leader. Explore the serene Temple of Literature, the country's oldest university. In the afternoon, take a cyclo ride through the bustling Old Quarter, filled with street vendors and traditional shops. As the day comes to an end, enjoy a traditional water puppet show, a unique Vietnamese art form.
Journey to the north of Vietnam and explore the breathtaking landscapes of Sapa. Spend the morning trekking through terraced rice fields and encountering ethnic minority villages, such as Cat Cat or Lao Chai. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and savor local cuisine. In the evening, relax in a traditional homestay and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals.
End your Vietnam adventure with a visit to the captivating Mekong Delta. Embark on a boat journey along the intricate waterways, passing by lush vegetation and floating markets. Explore local islands and sample tropical fruits. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of riverside villages and witness traditional handicraft production. Bid farewell to Vietnam as you savor a delicious farewell dinner on the banks of the Mekong River.
For off the beaten path attractions, head to the remote island of Phu Quoc for pristine beaches and lush forests. Locals love Ninh Binh, known as "Halong Bay on Land," with its stunning karst landscape and ancient temples. Don't miss the charming town of Dalat, nestled in the Central Highlands, renowned for its cool climate, fresh produce, and beautiful flower gardens.