How many days do you need in Vietnam?

This itinerary covers 9 days in Vietnam, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Vietnam?

Plan your perfect 9 days trip to Vietnam. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Northern Vietnam Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

10:00AM

Check into Hotel

Settle into your hotel and freshen up after your flight.

N/A, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch - Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

Enjoy a steaming bowl of Vietnam's iconic noodle soup at a local eatery.

3 USD, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Hanoi Old Quarter

Take a walking tour through the bustling streets, ancient pagodas, and traditional shop houses of the Old Quarter.

N/A, 2 hours

5:00PM

Hanoi Train Street

Experience the unique sight of a train passing through the narrow, residential street, followed by a traditional Vietnamese dinner nearby.

15 USD, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 2: Ha Giang Loop Adventure

Ha Giang, Vietnam

8:00AM

Drive to Ha Giang

Embark on a scenic road trip to Ha Giang, enjoying the breathtaking landscapes and mountainous terrain along the way.

40 USD (rental car), 6 hours

3:00PM

Explore Ha Giang Town

Arrive in Ha Giang town, explore the local market, and take in the serene atmosphere of this mountainous region.

N/A, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Local Homestay

Enjoy a home-cooked meal at a traditional homestay, experiencing the warm hospitality of the locals.

20 USD, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Ha Giang

Day 3: Ban Gioc Falls Excursion

Ban Gioc Falls, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Ban Gioc Falls

Embark on a day trip to the magnificent Ban Gioc Falls, the largest waterfall in Vietnam, and marvel at the natural wonders surrounding it.

30 USD (guided tour), 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch - Fresh Seafood

Enjoy a delicious lunch of fresh seafood at a local restaurant near the falls.

10 USD, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Ha Giang

Head back to Ha Giang town, relaxing and taking in the stunning scenery during the return journey.

N/A, 4 hours

9:00PM

Relax and Overnight in Ha Giang

Unwind and rest at your accommodation in Ha Giang, reminiscing about the day's awe-inspiring experiences.

N/A, N/A

Find Hotels in Ban Gioc Falls

Day 4: Explore Sapa's Beauty

Sapa, Vietnam

8:00AM

Travel to Sapa

Embark on a scenic journey to Sapa, nestled in the Hoàng Liên Son Mountains, known for its stunning rice terraces and vibrant hill-tribe villages.

50 USD (bus ticket), 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch - Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine

Savor a delightful lunch of authentic Vietnamese dishes at a local restaurant in Sapa town.

15 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Sapa Town

Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Sapa, visit the local market, and admire the picturesque surroundings.

N/A, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner - Traditional Hmong Cuisine

Indulge in a dinner featuring traditional Hmong cuisine, offering a unique and flavorful dining experience.

25 USD, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Sapa

Day 5: Cultural Exploration in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Return to Hanoi

Travel back to Hanoi from Sapa, enjoying the scenic views and vibrant countryside along the way.

50 USD (bus ticket), 5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of Hoan Kiem Lake, a symbol of Hanoi, and explore the nearby historical sites and temples.

N/A, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Hanoi Night Market

Browse through the colorful stalls and bustling atmosphere of the Hanoi Night Market, perfect for finding unique souvenirs and local handicrafts.

N/A, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner - Vietnamese Street Food

Indulge in a culinary adventure by sampling an array of delectable Vietnamese street food delights at the bustling night market.

15 USD, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 6: Ninh Binh Exploration

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

8:00AM

Travel to Ninh Binh

Head to Ninh Binh, often referred to as the 'Halong Bay on Land,' known for its stunning limestone karsts and tranquil riverways.

20 USD (train ticket), 2 hours

10:00AM

Trang An Boat Tour

Embark on a mesmerizing boat tour through the picturesque Trang An Grottoes, immersing yourself in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.

25 USD, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch - Local Delicacies

Enjoy a delightful lunch featuring local delicacies at a charming restaurant overlooking the stunning countryside.

20 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Bich Dong Pagoda

Visit the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda, nestled amidst breathtaking scenery, and take in the serene ambiance and architectural marvels.

N/A, 1 hour

6:00PM

Back to Hanoi

Return to Hanoi, reminiscing about the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural experiences of Ninh Binh.

20 USD (train ticket), 2 hours

Find Hotels in Ninh Binh

Day 7: Halong Bay Adventure

Halong Bay, Vietnam

8:00AM

Cruise in Halong Bay

Embark on a memorable cruise through the otherworldly karst landscapes and emerald waters of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

100 USD, 4 hours

1:00PM

Seafood Lunch on the Cruise

Indulge in a sumptuous seafood lunch aboard the cruise, savoring the flavors amidst the captivating natural beauty surrounding you.

30 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kayaking Adventure

Engage in an exhilarating kayaking adventure, paddling through the tranquil waters and exploring hidden grottoes and islets.

40 USD, 2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner on the Cruise

Savor a delightful farewell dinner on the cruise, filled with delectable Vietnamese dishes and breathtaking sunset views over the bay.

50 USD, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Halong Bay

Day 8: Hoi An Lantern Festival

Hoi An, Vietnam

10:00AM

Travel to Hoi An

Head to the ancient town of Hoi An, known for its charming old streets, colorful lanterns, and rich cultural heritage.

80 USD (flight ticket), 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch - Riverside Dining

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a riverside restaurant, savoring the tranquil ambiance and delectable local cuisine.

30 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Hoi An Old Town

Wander through the enchanting streets of Hoi An Old Town, adorned with vibrant lanterns and well-preserved ancient buildings, exuding a timeless charm.

N/A, 2 hours

6:00PM

Hoi An Lantern Festival

Partake in the mesmerizing Hoi An Lantern Festival, where the streets come alive with colorful lanterns, traditional performances, and a delightful festive atmosphere.

N/A, 3 hours

Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 9: Bana Hills Adventure

Bana Hills, Vietnam

9:00AM

Cable Car to Bana Hills

Take a thrilling cable car ride to the iconic Bana Hills, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lush landscapes.

25 USD, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Fantasy Park

Embark on a whimsical adventure at Fantasy Park, filled with thrilling rides, arcade games, and vibrant entertainment for all ages.

40 USD, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch - Sky Garden Restaurant

Indulge in a delectable lunch at the picturesque Sky Garden Restaurant, offering stunning views and a diverse culinary experience.

30 USD, 1 hour

4:00PM

Discover French Village

Stroll through the charming French Village at Bana Hills, reminiscent of a quaint European town, adorned with colorful buildings and vibrant gardens.

N/A, 2 hours

7:00PM

Return to Hoi An

Head back to Hoi An, reflecting on the day's enchanting experiences at Bana Hills and savoring the picturesque landscapes along the way.

N/A, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Bana Hills

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Northern Vietnam Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

10:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

Day 2: Ha Giang Loop Adventure

8:00AM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Ban Gioc Falls Excursion

8:00AM

1:00PM

5:00PM

9:00PM

Day 4: Explore Sapa's Beauty

8:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Cultural Exploration in Hanoi

8:00AM

2:00PM

5:00PM

8:00PM

Day 6: Ninh Binh Exploration

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 7: Halong Bay Adventure

8:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 8: Hoi An Lantern Festival

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 9: Bana Hills Adventure

9:00AM

11:00AM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

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