Exploring Vietnam: Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi Highlights

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Start your day with a peaceful walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, a symbol of Hanoi's beauty and tranquility.
Hoan Kiem Lake is centrally located in the Old Quarter, easily accessible by walking or a short taxi ride from most accommodations.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Old Quarter

Immerse yourself in the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, filled with charming shops, street food vendors, and historic temples.
The Old Quarter is best explored on foot to fully appreciate its narrow alleyways and vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Indulge in a local favorite, bun cha, at Bun Cha Huong Lien where Barack Obama famously dined during his visit to Hanoi.
Bun Cha Huong Lien is a short walk from the Old Quarter, offering authentic Vietnamese flavors at affordable prices.
10 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Temple of Literature

Step back in time at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university and a well-preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture.
The Temple of Literature is a short taxi ride away from the Old Quarter, offering a glimpse into Vietnam's scholarly past.
3 USD, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Savor a variety of Vietnamese dishes at Quan An Ngon, a renowned restaurant known for its diverse menu and authentic flavors.
Quan An Ngon is located near the Old Quarter, perfect for a relaxing evening after a day of exploration.
15 USD, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Hanoi Cultural Immersion

Hanoi, Vietnam

9:00AM

Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Pay respects to Vietnam's revolutionary leader at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an important historical site in Hanoi.
The mausoleum is a short distance from the Old Quarter, accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Ba Dinh Square

Stroll through Ba Dinh Square, a significant landmark where important events in Vietnamese history have taken place.
Ba Dinh Square is adjacent to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, offering a glimpse into Vietnam's past and present.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Cha Ca Thang Long

Treat yourself to cha ca, a traditional Vietnamese dish of grilled fish, at Cha Ca Thang Long for a unique culinary experience.
Cha Ca Thang Long is located in the Old Quarter, known for its flavorful and aromatic preparations of this specialty dish.
15 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shop at Dong Xuan Market

Browse through the vibrant stalls of Dong Xuan Market, one of Hanoi's largest indoor markets offering a wide range of goods.
Dong Xuan Market is within walking distance from the Old Quarter, perfect for souvenir shopping and local finds.
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pho Thin

Delight in a bowl of pho, Vietnam's iconic noodle soup, at Pho Thin known for its flavorful broth and tender beef slices.
Pho Thin is a short walk from Dong Xuan Market, ideal for a satisfying dinner before departing Hanoi.
10 USD, 1 hour
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Day 3: Beach Bliss in Da Nang

Da Nang, Vietnam

8:00AM

Relax at My Khe Beach

Start your day with a leisurely stroll along My Khe Beach, known for its pristine shoreline and inviting turquoise waters.
My Khe Beach is easily accessible from most accommodations in Da Nang, offering a serene setting for relaxation.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Marble Mountains

Explore the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone hills with caves, pagodas, and panoramic views of Da Nang.
Marble Mountains are a short drive from My Khe Beach, providing a cultural and natural escape from the beach.
5 USD, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Madame Lan Restaurant

Indulge in delicious Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist at Madame Lan Restaurant, offering a fusion of flavors.
Madame Lan Restaurant is located near Marble Mountains, perfect for a post-exploration meal with scenic views.
20 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Dragon Bridge

Witness the majestic Dragon Bridge in action, as it breathes fire and water on weekend evenings, symbolizing Da Nang's prosperity.
Dragon Bridge is a short drive from Madame Lan Restaurant, offering a unique spectacle against the backdrop of the Han River.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Apsara Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood feast at Apsara Restaurant, known for its fresh catch of the day and panoramic views of the Han River.
Apsara Restaurant is located along the riverfront, providing a picturesque setting for a memorable dinner in Da Nang.
25 USD, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Exploration in Da Nang

Da Nang, Vietnam

9:00AM

Visit Ba Na Hills

Embark on a cable car ride to Ba Na Hills, a hill station with gardens, amusement park, and the Golden Bridge offering stunning views.
Ba Na Hills is a short drive from central Da Nang, accessible by shuttle bus or taxi for a day of fun and adventure.
30 USD (includes cable car ride), 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Debay Wine Cellar

Dine at Debay Wine Cellar, a unique dining experience within Ba Na Hills, offering a selection of wines and international cuisines.
Debay Wine Cellar is located within the Ba Na Hills complex, providing a refined setting for a leisurely lunch.
35 USD, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Linh Ung Pagoda

Discover the beauty of Linh Ung Pagoda, a large Buddhist temple complex with intricate architecture and serene surroundings.
Linh Ung Pagoda is within walking distance from Ba Na Hills, allowing for a tranquil visit amidst nature and spirituality.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Waterfront Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood dinner at Waterfront Restaurant, overlooking the Han River with a menu featuring local specialties and international dishes.
Waterfront Restaurant is situated along the Han River, offering a relaxing ambiance and culinary delights for a delightful evening.
30 USD, 2 hours
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Day 5: Historical Exploration in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

9:00AM

Visit Independence Palace

Begin your day with a visit to Independence Palace, a historic landmark where significant events in Vietnamese history unfolded.
Independence Palace is centrally located in Ho Chi Minh City, easily accessible by taxi or public transportation.
5 USD, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore War Remnants Museum

Gain insight into Vietnam's wartime history at the War Remnants Museum, showcasing exhibits related to the Vietnam War.
War Remnants Museum is a short distance from Independence Palace, providing a somber yet educational experience.
3 USD, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nha Hang Ngon

Indulge in Vietnamese street food delights at Nha Hang Ngon, a popular restaurant known for its diverse menu and vibrant atmosphere.
Nha Hang Ngon is located near the museums, offering a convenient dining option to refuel for the afternoon.
15 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica

Admire the architectural beauty of Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, a stunning French colonial landmark in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.
Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica is within walking distance from the museums, allowing for a leisurely exploration of its grandeur.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Secret Garden

Dine at Secret Garden, a rooftop restaurant offering a serene escape from the bustling city below with authentic Vietnamese dishes.
Secret Garden is a hidden gem in Ho Chi Minh City, providing a peaceful setting for a delightful dinner experience.
20 USD, 2 hours
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Day 6: Culinary Delights in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

10:00AM

Cooking Class at Mai Home

Embark on a cooking class at Mai Home to learn the art of Vietnamese cuisine, from market shopping to hands-on cooking techniques.
Mai Home offers transportation for guests, providing an immersive culinary experience in a traditional Vietnamese home setting.
50 USD, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cuc Gach Quan

Savor a homestyle meal at Cuc Gach Quan, a charming restaurant housed in a restored ancient villa serving authentic Vietnamese dishes.
Cuc Gach Quan is a short distance from Mai Home, offering a cozy ambiance and delectable flavors for a memorable lunch.
25 USD, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Ben Thanh Market

Explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market, a vibrant hub of local vendors selling everything from street food to handicrafts and souvenirs.
Ben Thanh Market is centrally located in Ho Chi Minh City, perfect for souvenir shopping and experiencing the local culture.
Varies based on purchases, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Deck Saigon

Indulge in a riverside dining experience at The Deck Saigon, offering a fusion of Western and Asian cuisines amidst a stylish ambiance.
The Deck Saigon is situated along the Saigon River, providing a sophisticated setting for a memorable dinner in Ho Chi Minh City.
40 USD, 2 hours
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Day 7: City Exploration in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

9:00AM

Visit Cu Chi Tunnels

Embark on a guided tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network used during the Vietnam War for military strategies.
Cu Chi Tunnels are located outside the city center, requiring a guided tour or transportation arrangement for a historical expedition.
10 USD (guided tour), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pho 2000

Enjoy a bowl of pho at Pho 2000, a popular eatery frequented by former U.S. President Bill Clinton during his visit to Vietnam.
Pho 2000 is located near the Cu Chi Tunnels, offering a satisfying meal after exploring the historic site.
10 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Bitexco Financial Tower

Admire panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City from the observation deck of Bitexco Financial Tower, a modern landmark in the skyline.
Bitexco Financial Tower is centrally located, providing a bird's eye perspective of the city's bustling streets and architectural marvels.
5 USD, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Refinery

Conclude your Vietnam journey with a farewell dinner at The Refinery, a chic bistro serving French-inspired cuisine in a historic setting.
The Refinery is located in the city center, offering a refined ambiance and culinary experience for a memorable last evening.
30 USD, 2 hours
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