Start your honeymoon by exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi, Vietnam's capital city. In the morning, visit the Hoan Kiem Lake and take a romantic stroll around its serene surroundings. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch in the Old Quarter, where you can try delicious local dishes. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, a peaceful oasis of historic buildings and beautiful gardens. As the evening sets in, head to the West Lake area and indulge in a romantic dinner while enjoying panoramic views of the city.
Hoan Kiem Lake: Experience the lake's tranquility and take a walk on the iconic red bridge. Cost: Free, Time: 2 hours
Old Quarter: Explore the narrow streets filled with shops and street food vendors. Cost: Varies, Time: 2-3 hours
Temple of Literature: Discover Vietnam's first national university and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Cost: 30,000 VND (estimated), Time: 1-2 hours
West Lake: Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the lakeside restaurants. Cost: Varies, Time: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Pho 10, a popular local spot known for its authentic pho. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For a tasty lunch, head to Banh Mi 25 and try their famous Vietnamese sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about $3 per person.
Indulge in a romantic dinner at Maison Marou Hanoi, a cozy restaurant offering a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Monday November 27: Halong Bay
Embark on a cruise adventure to the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay. Spend the morning cruising through the emerald waters and marvel at the breathtaking limestone karsts that dot the bay. Enjoy a seafood lunch onboard and take part in activities like kayaking or swimming in the bay. In the afternoon, explore the magnificent caves and grottos, such as the Sung Sot Cave. As the evening approaches, savor a romantic dinner while watching the sunset over the bay.
Halong Bay Cruise: Experience a magical cruise through the captivating landscape. Cost: Varies, Time: Full day
Sung Sot Cave: Explore the stunning caves with incredible rock formations. Cost: Included in the cruise package, Time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Morning Glory Cafe where you can enjoy freshly baked pastries and a variety of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, check out Seafood Paradise Restaurant which offers an array of fresh seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Sunset View Restaurant where you can indulge in a wide selection of Vietnamese and international cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of Halong Bay. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Tuesday November 28: Hue
Travel to the city of Hue, known for its rich history and imperial heritage. In the morning, visit the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the Forbidden Purple City within the citadel complex. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at one of the local restaurants. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Perfume River and visit the beautiful Thien Mu Pagoda. As the evening sets in, savor a romantic dinner while enjoying traditional Hue cuisine.
Imperial Citadel: Discover the ancient ruins and historical significance. Cost: 150,000 VND, Time: 2-3 hours
Thien Mu Pagoda: Admire the beautiful pagoda by the river. Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Hue is Le Petit Café, known for its delicious banh mi and coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 50,000 VND per person.
For lunch, try Lien Hoa Restaurant, which serves authentic Hue cuisine such as bun bo Hue and com hen. The average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
For dinner, indulge in the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese barbecue at Hanh Restaurant. Enjoy grilled meats and seafood along with a variety of local dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 200,000 VND per person.
Wednesday November 29: Hoi An
Explore the charming town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ancient town. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and wandering through the old streets filled with colorful lanterns. Enjoy a delicious local lunch at one of the riverside restaurants. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the rich culture of Hoi An with activities like traditional lantern making or a boat ride along the Thu Bon River. As the evening approaches, witness the town come alive with the magical lantern-lit night market.
Japanese Covered Bridge: Admire the iconic bridge and its unique architecture. Cost: 120,000 VND, Time: 1-2 hours
Hoi An Ancient Town: Explore the narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, and art galleries. Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
Traditional Lantern Making: Learn how to make your own lantern as a special keepsake. Cost: Varies, Time: 1-2 hours
Thu Bon River Boat Ride: Sail along the river and enjoy the scenic views of Hoi An. Cost: Varies, Time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at Morning Glory Restaurant, known for its authentic Vietnamese dishes and cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
Savor a delightful lunch at Mango Rooms, a popular spot offering a fusion of Asian flavors in a vibrant atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 200,000 VND per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Cargo Club, where you can relish international cuisine while enjoying stunning views of the river. Average cost for a meal is about 300,000 VND per person.
Thursday November 30: Nha Trang
Relax and unwind in the coastal city of Nha Trang. Start your morning at Vinpearl Land, an amusement park with thrilling rides and a beautiful beach. Enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the local restaurants. In the afternoon, explore the underwater world with a snorkeling or scuba diving trip. As the evening sets in, pamper yourself with a spa treatment or indulge in a romantic dinner by the beach.
Vinpearl Land: Have fun at the amusement park and enjoy the beach. Cost: Varies, Time: Half day
Snorkeling/Scuba Diving: Discover the colorful coral reefs and marine life. Cost: Varies, Time: Half day
Spa Treatment: Relax with a rejuvenating spa experience. Cost: Varies, Time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Café Nha Trang for breakfast, where you can enjoy delicious local Vietnamese dishes like pho and banh mi. The average cost for a meal is about 50,000 VND per person.
For lunch, head over to Lanterns Vietnamese Restaurant for a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Their specialties include fresh seafood, spring rolls, and traditional noodle dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
In the evening, indulge in a fine dining experience at Sailing Club Nha Trang. This beachfront restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring international and fusion dishes, along with panoramic ocean views. The average cost for a meal is about 500,000 VND per person.
Friday December 1: Ho Chi Minh City
Explore the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Begin your day by visiting the historic Reunification Palace and learn about its significance in Vietnam's history. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local eatery. In the afternoon, discover the city's colonial charm while walking through the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. As the evening approaches, explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market and try some local street food.
Reunification Palace: Visit the historic palace and its beautiful gardens. Cost: 40,000 VND, Time: 1-2 hours
Central Post Office: Explore the grand post office building designed by Gustave Eiffel. Cost: Free, Time: 30 minutes
Ben Thanh Market: Shop for souvenirs and try local street food. Cost: Varies, Time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Ho Chi Minh City is Banh Mi Huynh Hoa, famous for its mouthwatering banh mi sandwiches filled with various fillings. Average cost for a meal is about 30,000 VND per person.
For lunch, Pho Hoa Pasteur is a local favorite, offering delicious and authentic pho noodle soup. Average cost for a meal is about 60,000 VND per person.
For dinner, head to Quan Bui Restaurant for a taste of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Their menu features dishes like fresh spring rolls and grilled meats. Average cost for a meal is about 150,000 VND per person.
Saturday December 2: Mekong Delta
Embark on a day trip to the Mekong Delta, known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. Start your morning by cruising along the Mekong River and visiting local villages on the delta islands. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a riverside restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the bustling floating markets and try fresh tropical fruits. As the evening sets in, savor a romantic dinner while enjoying a traditional Mekong Delta cultural performance.
Mekong Delta Cruise: Experience the scenic beauty and local life along the river. Cost: Varies, Time: Full day
Floating Markets: Witness the vibrant trade on the water and taste fresh fruits. Cost: Varies, Time: 2-3 hours
Mekong Delta Cultural Performance: Enjoy traditional music and dance while having dinner. Cost: Varies, Time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a mouthwatering breakfast at Riverside Cafe, known for its delicious Vietnamese street food. You can enjoy a hearty meal here for around $8 per person.
For a delightful lunch, head to Lotus Garden Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled on the riverside. Indulge in their authentic Mekong Delta specialties for approximately $12 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at River View Restaurant, where you can feast on fresh seafood while admiring the beautiful sunset views. A meal here costs around $20 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the beautiful Phu Quoc Island, known for its pristine beaches and untouched natural beauty. Another local favorite is the town of Sapa, where you can trek through scenic rice terraces and experience the colorful culture of ethnic minority groups.
For more personalized recommendations, check out Kayak to find the best hotel and flight prices for your trip to Vietnam.