Start your trip in the heart of Vietnam's capital Hanoi, exploring the historic Old Quarter. Walk around the lively streets of this charming area and discover the culture, street food and local crafts. Don't miss the chance to visit Hoan Kiem, a lake located in the center of Hanoi, and the bustling Dong Xuan Market.
Embark on a family-friendly overnight cruise to Halong Bay, famous for its tranquil beauty with unique limestone pillars and emerald water. Explore the floating villages, caves and enjoy activities like kayaking, swimming, and cooking classes on board.
Relax in the picturesque coastal city of Hoi An. Stroll along the lantern-lit ancient town, shop for souvenirs, take a bike tour to the countryside and visit the Hoi An Night Market. Don't forget to try local specialties like Banh Mi, Cao Lau or enjoy a family cooking class with fresh ingredients from the local market.
Discover the ancient capitals of the Champa Kingdom at My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in a lush valley. Explore the mysterious ruins of the Hindu temple complex with intricate carvings and sculptures dating back to the 4th century.
Take a flight to the coastal city of Nha Trang, known for its long sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, and ocean activities. Visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers, Mud bath, discover the marine ecosystem in Nha Trang Oceanography Institute or enjoy water sports like snorkeling or diving.
Experience city life in Vietnam's largest metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Walk around the bustling streets to witness the combination of the traditional and modern way of living in this city. Visit the famous landmarks like the Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral.
Discover the underground system of the Cu Chi Tunnels, used during the Vietnam war as a hiding place, living area and military supply route. Learn about the history and struggle of the Vietnamese people, try shooting at the gun range or crawl through the narrow tunnels.
To explore these destinations in 7 days, it's recommended to take internal flights or hire a driver for a stress-free journey. Airfares between cities start from £20 per person one way, and if you prefer to hire a private car, it costs around £30-£40 per day with a guide. Keep in mind that traffic can be congested, especially in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
If you have more time, don't miss taking a train ride to Sapa where you can enjoy stunning scenery and ethnic tribal culture. For those who enjoy beach destinations, consider visiting Phu Quoc island, also known as the "pearl island" with white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Alternatively, you can reduce the number of destinations to avoid rushing and spend more time to relax and explore each local culture in-depth.
The main international airports in Vietnam are Noi Bai International Airport - HAN (Hanoi), and Tan Son Nhat International Airport - SGN (Ho Chi Minh City). If you are traveling to Nha Trang, there is a domestic airport in Cam Ranh - CXR with frequent connections to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.