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Explore the Wonders of Vietnam: A 13-Day Journey

Viewed by 64 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

12:00PM

Check-in at Hotel.

Arrive in the vibrant capital of Vietnam, get settled at your hotel in the Old Quarter, a hub of activity and culture.
Walk to your hotel from the airport taxi drop-off.
USD100, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien.

Savor the famous Bun Cha, grilled pork with noodles, at this iconic eatery.
A 10-minute walk from your hotel.
USD5, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake.

An iconic lake in Hanoi, perfect for a leisurely stroll and people-watching.
Take a 15-minute walk to the lake.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Old Quarter.

Wander through the narrow streets lined with shops and cafes showcasing traditional Vietnamese life.
Walking tour of the Old Quarter.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Koto Restaurant.

Enjoy delicious fusion cuisine while supporting the training of disadvantaged youth.
15-minute taxi ride from the Old Quarter.
USD15, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 2: Cultural Discoveries

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen.

Start your day with a steaming bowl of Pho from one of the best places in Hanoi.
5-minute walk from the hotel.
USD3, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Pay respects to Vietnam's iconic leader and explore the surrounding gardens.
A 10-minute taxi ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Learn at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Delve into the cultural diversity of the country through engaging exhibits.
A 15-minute taxi ride.
USD2, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Cha Ca Thang Long.

Try the local specialty of Cha Ca, grilled fish served with herbs and noodles.
Take a taxi back to the Old Quarter.
USD10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Watch a Water Puppet Show.

Experience this traditional art form that depicts rural life in Vietnam.
5-minute walk to Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.
USD5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Gourmet Corner.

Enjoy a blend of Vietnamese and international cuisines with spectacular views of the city.
A short walk from the theatre.
USD20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 3: Halong Bay Adventure

Halong Bay, Vietnam

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at the hotel.

Fuel up at your hotel to prepare for a full day’s trip.
Eat at your hotel's dining lounge.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Halong Bay.

Board your shuttle bus for the scenic journey to one of Vietnam's most famous attractions.
90-minute drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay.
USD30, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Cruise around Halong Bay.

Admire the stunning limestone karsts and islands while onboard a traditional junk boat.
Onboard the cruise ship.
Included, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch on Board.

Savor a buffet lunch featuring fresh seafood while you cruise.
While cruising.
Included, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Sung Sot Cave.

Discover the mesmerizing stalactite formations in this massive cave.
Through a guided tour via boat.
USD5, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Hanoi.

Enjoy the scenic route back while recounting the day’s experience.
Take the shuttle bus back.
Included, 2.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Home Food Restaurant.

Enjoy a meal featuring traditional Vietnamese home cooking in a relaxed environment.
Near your hotel.
USD15, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Halong Bay

Day 4: Explore Halong Bay

Halong Bay, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast on the Cruise.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast aboard your junk boat.
Onboard the cruise.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Kayaking in Halong Bay.

Get up close to the towering limestone cliffs and hidden caves on a kayak.
Kayak rental provided by the cruise.
Included, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Ti Top Island.

Hike to the viewpoint for a panoramic view of Halong Bay's stunning beauty.
Access via boat.
Included, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch on Board.

Indulge in another delightful seafood lunch while enjoying your cruise.
Onboard the cruise.
Included, 1 hour

2:00PM

Return to Port & Travel to Hoi An.

Disembark and travel to the airport for a flight to Hoi An.
Transfer back by bus to Halong Bay port, then travel to Hanoi airport.
USD30 + flight, 3.5 hours

6:00PM

Check-in at Hoi An.

Arrive in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An and relax.
Short distance from the airport.
USD80, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Morning Glory Restaurant.

Taste authentic Hoi An dishes such as Cao Lau and white roses.
Area near the Ancient Town.
USD12, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Halong Bay

Day 5: Charming Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at N Restaurant.

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese breakfast served in a quaint cafe.
Just a short walk from your hotel.
USD6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Hoi An Ancient Town.

Stroll through the well-preserved streets filled with colorful buildings and lanterns.
Short walk from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Banh Mi Phuong.

Experience the best banh mi in Hoi An at this highly recommended local spot.
Short walk from Ancient Town.
USD2, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge.

A symbol of Hoi An, this beautiful bridge is rich in architectural history.
Easy walk from lunch spot.
USD1, 1 hour

2:30PM

Take a cooking class.

Learn to make traditional Vietnamese dishes and enjoy a fun interactive experience.
Arranged through your hotel.
USD30, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Vie en Rose.

Relax in a charming atmosphere with a mix of Vietnamese and French cuisine.
Short distance from Ancient Town.
USD18, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 6: Day Tailoring and Relaxation

Hoi An, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mango Mango.

Start your day with an energizing breakfast with tropical flavors.
Close to Hoi An riverside.
USD7, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tailoring Session.

Get bespoke clothes tailored just for you at one of Hoi An's famed tailor shops.
At a chosen tailor shop.
Varies (e.g., USD50 for a suit)., 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cargo Club.

Enjoy a mix of local and international dishes in a stunning riverside setting.
Near the Ancient Town.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Relax at An Bang Beach.

Unwind and soak up some sun at this popular, beautiful beach just outside the town.
20-minute taxi ride.
Free, 4 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Secret Garden.

Dine in a beautiful garden setting while enjoying authentic Vietnamese dishes.
Return taxi to Hoi An.
USD16, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 7: Historic Hue

Hue, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel.

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast before heading to Hue.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel from Hoi An to Hue.

Take a scenic bus ride through the countryside to the historic city of Hue.
3-hour bus ride.
USD10, 3 hours

12:30PM

Check into hotel in Hue.

Drop off your bags and prepare for afternoon explorations.
Close from the bus station.
USD40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Bun Bo Hue 24.

Indulge in local specialty noodle soup, Bun Bo Hue, known for its rich flavor.
Short distance from your hotel.
USD5, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Imperial City.

Explore the historic royal palace and its fascinating architecture.
Short walk from lunch spot.
USD6, 2 hours

5:30PM

Take a boat ride on the Perfume River.

Relax on a scenic boat ride, often accompanied by traditional music.
Boat docks nearby.
USD10, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Cyclo Cafe.

End your day with a delicious meal featuring local seafood and international options.
Close to your hotel.
USD12, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hue

Day 8: Full Day in Hue

Hue, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel.

Fuel up for a day of cultural immersion.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Thien Mu Pagoda.

Admire one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam with stunning views of the river.
A short taxi ride.
USD2, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Tomb of Minh Mang.

Discover the beautiful architecture and gardens of this imperial crypt.
Taxi ride from pagoda.
USD2, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hanh Restaurant.

Try more delicious local dishes in a laid-back atmosphere.
Walk back to the city.
USD6, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Tomb of Khai Dinh.

Visit the most opulent royal tomb showcasing unique architecture.
Short taxi ride.
USD4, 2 hours

4:30PM

Learn about Vietnam at the Museum of Royal Antiquities.

Discover the country's historical heritage, particularly of the Nguyen dynasty.
Head back to the city center.
USD4, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Royal dinner with performances.

Experience a unique dining experience with traditional music at a royal restaurant.
Return to the hotel vicinity.
USD25, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Hue

Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City Exploration

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel in Hue.

Get ready for travel with a satisfying breakfast.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City.

Fly to the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh, formerly known as Saigon.
Flight of approximately 1.5 hours.
USD50, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Check into hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Get settled and prepare to explore Vietnam's largest city.
Close to Tan Son Nhat Airport.
USD70, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Pho Hoa.

Delight in a steaming bowl of traditional Pho at one of the city's best spots.
10-minute taxi from the hotel.
USD5, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the War Remnants Museum.

Gain insight into Vietnam's history and the impact of the Vietnam War.
10-minute taxi ride.
USD2, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Reunification Palace.

Explore this historical landmark that was the center of the Vietnam War.
Short distance from the museum.
USD5, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ben Thanh Market.

Savor a variety of street food options at this bustling market ambiance.
A quick walk from the Reunification Palace.
USD10, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 10: City Life and History

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Anita.

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with local specialties and coffee.
A short walk from the hotel.
USD5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Notre Dame Cathedral.

Marvel at the French colonial architecture of this iconic cathedral.
Walking distance from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the Central Post Office.

A beautiful example of French colonial architecture, you can enjoy a coffee inside.
A few steps from the cathedral.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Chopsticks.

Experience fresh Vietnamese seafood and regional dishes in a modern setting.
Short taxi ride.
USD12, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda.

Discover this stunning pagoda filled with intricate carvings and vibrant colors.
A quick taxi ride.
USD3, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Binh Thanh Market.

Engage in some local shopping and pick up souvenirs.
Short taxi ride.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cuc Gach Quan.

Enjoy a cozy atmosphere with home-cooked Vietnamese food in a trendy setting.
A quick 10-minute ride.
USD20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 11: Mekong Delta Excursion

Mekong Delta, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel.

A hearty breakfast to prepare for the day ahead.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Mekong Delta.

Join a guided tour to explore the beautiful landscapes and vibrant local culture.
Approx. 2-hour bus ride.
USD30, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Boat ride on Mekong River.

Cruise along the river and witness local villagers' daily life.
Onboard the boat provided by the tour.
Included, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a local riverside restaurant.

Enjoy traditional Mekong dishes amidst beautiful views.
Dine at a restaurant arranged by the tour.
Included, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit a local fruit orchard.

Experience the agricultural bounty of the Mekong Delta and sample the fruits.
Continuing the tour.
Included, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Ho Chi Minh City.

Relax on the journey back and reflect on your day.
Bus ride back.
Included, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Pho 24.

Conclude your day with another sumptuous bowl of Pho at this popular chain.
Near your hotel.
USD7, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Mekong Delta

Day 12: Cultural Immersion

Mekong Delta, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel.

A filling breakfast before the day's adventure.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore My Tho.

Visit the charming tourist town and the famous Vinh Trang Pagoda.
2-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh.
USD15, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at My Tho Restaurant.

Enjoy local dishes in a traditional setting.
Walking distance from Vinh Trang.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit local workshops.

Experience local crafts such as coconut candy and rice paper making.
Tour arranged by the local guide.
USD5, 2 hours

4:30PM

Scenic boat ride on the River.

Further explore the delta on a leisurely boat ride.
Boat provided by your local guide.
Included, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The River Restaurant.

Experience a scenic riverside meal with local specialties.
Close to your last stop.
USD15, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mekong Delta

Day 13: Departure

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel.

Enjoy your last breakfast in Vietnam at your hotel.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Last-minute shopping.

Explore local shops for any last souvenirs to take home.
Walking distance or taxi ride to Ben Thanh Market.
Varies, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Check-out of hotel.

Ensure everything is packed and ready to go.
At your hotel.
Free, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Travel to the airport.

Head to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure.
15-minute taxi ride.
USD10, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
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