30 minutes (6 miles) from Tan Son Nhat International Airport
Start the trip with a bang, head to Bui Vien street, aka the backpackers' area, and party all night with locals and travelers. Try the local street food and dance to the beat of live music. For a quieter time, head to rooftop bars and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.
Day 2: Can Gio Mangrove Forest
1 hour 15 minutes (25 miles) from Ho Chi Minh City
Escape the city and take a boat tour through the biodiverse Can Gio Mangrove Forest. See monkeys, crocodiles, and other wildlife, and learn about the forest's role in protecting the city from natural disasters. After lunch, relax on the beach, swim, and play beach volleyball.
Day 3: Mekong Delta River Tour
2 hours (60 miles) from Ho Chi Minh City
Take a boat tour through the Mekong Delta River, experience the local culture and enjoy the scenery of green rice fields, orchards, and floating markets. Visit the coconut candy factory and honey bee farm. Have lunch on an island and enjoy traditional music performances.
Day 4: Hoi An Ancient Town
1 hour (17 miles) from Da Nang International Airport
Visit the charming Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the Japanese Covered Bridge, the old houses, and the colorful lanterns. Have lunch at a riverfront restaurant and try the famous local dish "cao lầu". In the afternoon, head to the beach or take a cooking class.
Day 5: Ha Long Bay Cruise
2 hours 30 minutes (103 miles) from Noi Bai International Airport
End the trip with a memorable Ha Long Bay Cruise. Marvel at the limestone karsts, visit the caves, and go kayaking. Have lunch on the boat and watch the sunset over the bay. In the evening, enjoy the party on board.
Recommendations
Consider visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels, the War Remnants Museum, and the Saigon Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh City. Take a side trip to Da Lat for trekking and canyoning. Maximize your fun by trying Vietnamese beer and street food, and by joining a pub crawl. Don't forget to bargain when shopping in markets and street vendors.
Time and Costs Estimates
Bui Vien street (nightlife) - 1 night (free - $$$)
Can Gio Mangrove Forest (boat tour, beach) - 1 day ($ - $$)
Mekong Delta River Tour (boat tour, island, lunch) - 1 day ($$ - $$$)
Hoi An Ancient Town (UNESCO, sightseeing, lunch, beach, cooking class) - 1 day ($ - $$$)
Ha Long Bay Cruise (boat tour, kayaking, cave, lunch, party) - 1 day ($$ - $$$)
Total Estimated Costs: $$ - $$$$
Restaurants
Start your day with a fresh and hearty Vietnamese breakfast at Pho 2000 in Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy a steaming bowl of pho with tender beef or chicken, accompanied by fragrant herbs and lime. Average cost for a meal is about 80,000 VND (3.5 USD) per person.
For a delicious and authentic Vietnamese lunch, head to Quan An Ngon in Ho Chi Minh City. Indulge in a variety of traditional dishes such as fresh spring rolls, banh xeo (Vietnamese crepes), and grilled meats served with rice noodles. Average cost for a meal is about 150,000 VND (6.5 USD) per person.
Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Xu Restaurant Lounge in Ho Chi Minh City. This trendy restaurant offers a fusion of Vietnamese and international flavors, including mouthwatering dishes like lemongrass-marinated grilled prawns and caramelized pork belly. Average cost for a meal is about 500,000 VND (22 USD) per person.