How many days do you need in Vietnam?

This itinerary covers 7 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 7 days trip to Vietnam. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Ultimate 7-Day Adventure & Foodie Itinerary in Vietnam on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Start your day with a leisurely walk around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, a symbol of Hanoi's beauty and tranquility.

Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Try the famous Vietnamese dish Bun Cha at Bun Cha Huong Lien, known for its delicious grilled pork and noodles.

INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Temple of Literature

Immerse yourself in history at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university and a well-preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture.

INR 50, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Indulge in a variety of Vietnamese street food at Quan An Ngon, a popular food court offering authentic local dishes at affordable prices.

INR 300, 1-2 hours

Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 2: Cruising Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

7:00AM

Embark on a Ha Long Bay Cruise

Board a budget-friendly cruise to explore the stunning limestone islands and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

INR 1000 (includes transportation and cruise), Full day

12:00PM

Lunch on the Cruise

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on the cruise while taking in the breathtaking views of Ha Long Bay.

Included, 1 hour

4:00PM

Kayaking in the Bay

Experience the beauty of Ha Long Bay up close by going kayaking around the limestone karsts and caves.

Included, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner and Overnight on the Cruise

Relish a scrumptious dinner on the cruise and spend the night on the water, surrounded by the magical scenery of Ha Long Bay.

Included, Overnight

Find Hotels in Ha Long Bay

Day 3: Ha Long Bay Exploration

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

8:00AM

Tai Chi on the Deck

Start your day with a calming Tai Chi session on the cruise deck, overlooking the serene waters of Ha Long Bay.

Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Sung Sot Cave

Explore the magnificent Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest and most impressive caves in Ha Long Bay, adorned with stunning rock formations.

Included, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on the Cruise

Savour a delightful lunch on the cruise while sailing through the enchanting landscapes of Ha Long Bay.

Included, 1 hour

4:00PM

Swim or Relax on Titov Island

Enjoy some leisure time on the sandy beaches of Titov Island, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and soaking in the natural beauty.

INR 50 (boat ride), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner and Overnight on the Cruise

End your day with a delicious dinner on the cruise and another night under the starlit sky of Ha Long Bay.

Included, Overnight

Find Hotels in Ha Long Bay

Day 4: Discovering Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

9:00AM

Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Step back in time as you wander through the charming streets of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO-listed heritage site known for its well-preserved architecture and lantern-lit evenings.

INR 800, 3-4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Morning Glory Restaurant

Treat yourself to a sumptuous Vietnamese meal at Morning Glory Restaurant, offering a wide range of local delicacies in a traditional setting.

INR 250, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit An Bang Beach

Relax on the sandy shores of An Bang Beach, a serene escape from the bustling town, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the coastal scenery.

INR 100 (bike rental), 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bale Well

Delight in the local specialty of White Rose Dumplings at Bale Well, a popular spot among locals and tourists alike for authentic Hoi An cuisine.

INR 200, 1-2 hours

Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 5: Exploring Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

8:00AM

Bike Tour of Hoi An Countryside

Embark on a scenic bike tour through the picturesque countryside of Hoi An, passing by rice paddies, water buffalo, and local villages.

INR 300 (guided tour) / INR 50 (bike rental), 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Streets Restaurant

Savour delectable street food at Streets Restaurant, known for its fusion of Vietnamese flavors and international cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere.

INR 150, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit My Son Sanctuary

Discover the ancient ruins of My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the Champa Kingdom's architectural wonders and Hindu influences.

INR 500 (including entrance fee), 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Morning Glory Restaurant

Return to Morning Glory Restaurant for another delightful meal, trying different Vietnamese dishes from their extensive menu.

INR 250, 1-2 hours

Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 6: Adventures in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

9:00AM

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, a vibrant hub for shopping, local street food, and souvenirs, offering a glimpse of authentic Vietnamese culture.

INR 900, 3-4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pho 2000

Satisfy your cravings with a bowl of traditional Pho at Pho 2000, a historic eatery frequented by former U.S. President Bill Clinton.

INR 150, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit War Remnants Museum

Gain insights into Vietnam's history at the War Remnants Museum, displaying wartime artifacts, photographs, and stories to commemorate the country's past.

INR 50, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Nha Hang Ngon

Feast on a variety of Vietnamese dishes at Nha Hang Ngon, a popular restaurant serving authentic street food in a lively and affordable setting.

INR 300, 1-2 hours

Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City Exploration

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Notre Dame Cathedral

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, a symbol of French colonial architecture in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.

Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Secret Garden

Enjoy a rooftop dining experience at Secret Garden, offering panoramic views of the city skyline along with traditional Vietnamese dishes.

INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Cu Chi Tunnels

Delve into the underground world of the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of tunnels used during the Vietnam War for guerrilla warfare.

INR 300 (including entrance fee), 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Deck Saigon

Indulge in a final meal at The Deck Saigon, a waterfront restaurant offering a blend of Asian and Western cuisines in a sophisticated setting.

INR 500, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Ultimate 7-Day Adventure & Foodie Itinerary in Vietnam on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Hanoi

8:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Cruising Ha Long Bay

7:00AM

12:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Ha Long Bay Exploration

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Discovering Hoi An

9:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Exploring Hoi An

8:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Adventures in Ho Chi Minh City

9:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City Exploration

8:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

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