Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

13-Day Foodie Adventure Through Vietnam: Culture, Nature, and Relaxation

Viewed by 78 travelers

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on December 11, 2024

9:00 AM

Explore Hoan Kiem Lake

Start your journey with a refreshing stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful spot surrounded by the bustle of the city.
Walk to Hoan Kiem Lake from your accommodation.
0, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Ngoc Son Temple

Cross the iconic red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple, set on an islet on Hoan Kiem Lake, to appreciate its unique architecture.
Short walk across the lake.
20000, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Savor the famous bun cha dish - grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles and herbs.
Taxi to the restaurant, about 10 minutes away.
100000, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore the Old Quarter

Wander the winding streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, absorbing the sights, sounds, and smells of the vibrant street life.
Walking tour through the Old Quarter.
0, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Pay your respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and learn about the revolutionary history of Vietnam.
Taxi to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, about 15 minutes away.
0, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long

Try the legendary cha ca, grilled fish with turmeric, dill, and vermicelli noodles, a Hanoi special.
Short taxi ride to the restaurant.
200000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 2: Hanoi Sightseeing

Hanoi, Vietnam on December 12, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Hanoi Social Club

Enjoy a hearty breakfast of pancakes and local coffee at the charming Hanoi Social Club.
Taxi to the café, about 10 minutes.
100000, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Temple of Literature

Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university and a stunning example of traditional architecture.
Short walk to the Temple from the café.
30000, 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

Explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Check out the fascinating exhibits illustrating Vietnam's ethnic diversity and rich cultural heritage.
Taxi to the museum, about 15 minutes away.
40000, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Xoi Yen

Sample xoi, sticky rice, with various toppings for a traditional lunch experience.
Taxi to Xoi Yen, about 15 minutes.
60000, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Enjoy a Traditional Water Puppet Show

Witness a captivating water puppet performance, a unique cultural art form in Vietnam.
Taxi back to the city center, around 10 minutes.
50000, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Nha Hang Ngon

Indulge in a mix of regional dishes in this beautiful outdoor setting at Nha Hang Ngon.
Short taxi ride to the restaurant.
250000, 2 hours

8:00 PM

Night Market in the Old Quarter

Stroll the bustling night market and shop for local handicrafts and street food.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
Variable, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 3: Cruise Halong Bay

Halong Bay, Vietnam on December 13, 2024

7:30 AM

Travel to Halong Bay

Catch an early morning shuttle to Halong Bay and witness the breathtaking landscape.
Pre-arranged shuttle service from the hotel.
400000, 3.5 hours

11:30 AM

Board a Cruise

Board your chosen cruise for a day trip among the stunning limestone karsts of Halong Bay.
Walk to the boat from the docking area.
1500000, Optional Duration

1:00 PM

Lunch on Board

Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch while enjoying stunning views of the bay.
Included with cruise.
0, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Sung Sot Cave

Discover the stunning Sung Sot Cave, known for its beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.
Boat transfer included in the cruise.
0, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Kayaking or Swimming

Participate in kayaking or swimming to immerse yourself in the serene environment of the bay.
Provided by the cruise.
0, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner on Board

Enjoy a second delightful dinner while watching the sunset over Halong Bay.
Included with cruise.
0, 1 hour

8:00 PM

Relax on the deck

Spend the evening relaxing on the deck, enjoying the beauty of Halong Bay at night.
Onboard the cruise ship.
0, Flexible
Find Hotels in Halong Bay

Day 4: Halong Bay Exploration

Halong Bay, Vietnam on December 14, 2024

6:30 AM

Sunrise Tai Chi

Join a morning Tai Chi session on the deck, a perfect welcome to the day amidst the stunning scenery.
Onboard the cruise ship.
0, 1 hour

7:30 AM

Breakfast on Board

A delightful buffet breakfast to energize for a day of exploration.
Included with cruise.
0, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Ti Top Island

Enjoy a morning trip to Ti Top Island for swimming or climbing up to the viewpoint for panoramic views.
Boat transfer included in the cruise.
0, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch on Board

Another sumptuous meal onboard with magnificent views as you cruise around Halong Bay.
Included in the cruise.
0, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Return Journey

Begin the scenic return journey to the harbor while enjoying the last glimpses of the bay.
Boat transfer included in the cruise.
0, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Travel back to Hanoi

Transfer back to Hanoi via shuttle service, ready for your next adventure.
Pre-arranged shuttle service.
400000, 3.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Delight in local specialties at this popular restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere.
Taxi to the restaurant, about 10 minutes.
200000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Halong Bay

Day 5: Ninh Binh Day Trip

Ninh Binh, Vietnam on December 15, 2024

7:00 AM

Travel to Ninh Binh

Head out early for a scenic drive to Ninh Binh, known as 'Ha Long Bay on land'.
Pre-arranged shuttle service.
300000, 2 hours

9:00 AM

Visit Trang An Scenic Landscape

Take a boat ride through the beautiful wetlands of Trang An, surrounded by limestone mountains.
Onboard a local tour boat.
950000, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Savor local delicacies such as goat meat and rice at a nearby restaurant.
Short walk from the Trang An area.
150000, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Bich Dong Pagoda

Explore the beautiful Bich Dong Pagoda, nestled among the tranquil hills and serene landscapes.
Taxi from the eatery, about 10 minutes.
20000, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Cycle Through Countryside

Rent a bicycle to explore the picturesque countryside of Ninh Binh and see rice paddies and local villages.
Bike rentals near Bich Dong Pagoda.
50000, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Return to Hanoi for Dinner

Travel back to Hanoi and enjoy a relaxed dinner.
Pre-arranged shuttle back to Hanoi.
300000, 2 hours

8:30 PM

Dinner at Pho Bat Dan

End the day with a bowl of Hanoi's renowned pho, a noodle soup that hits all the right notes.
Short taxi ride to the restaurant.
50000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ninh Binh

Day 6: Hoi An Arrival

Hoi An, Vietnam on December 16, 2024

8:00 AM

Flight to Hoi An

Take a short flight from Hanoi to Da Nang, then a taxi to Hoi An.
Flight, 1 hour; taxi, 30 minutes.
1500000, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Check-in & Relax

Arrive at your chosen accommodation and take some time to relax before exploring.
None needed.
0, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Wander through the beautifully preserved streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Short walk from your accommodation.
0, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Morning Glory

Enjoy some local specialties like Cao Lau and White rose dumplings.
Walking distance from Ancient Town.
120000, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Tailor Shop Experience

Visit a tailor to get a custom-made outfit, a highlight of many travelers' experiences in Hoi An.
Walking tour around the town.
Variable, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge

Check out the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, a stunning piece of architecture.
Short walk from the tailor shop.
0, 30 minutes

6:00 PM

Dinner at Cargo Club

Dine on delicious international cuisine along with views of the river at Cargo Club.
Walking distance from the bridge.
200000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 7: Discover Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam on December 17, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Cargo Club

Enjoy a wonderful breakfast overlooking the river at The Cargo Club.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
120000, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village

Take a bicycle tour to Tra Que, learn about organic farming, and participate in a cooking class.
Bicycle rental available near your accommodation.
100000, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Farm

Enjoy a delicious farm-to-table lunch prepared during your cooking class.
Retain bikes from earlier.
35000, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Relax at An Bang Beach

Enjoy a few relaxing hours on An Bang Beach, soaking up the sun and the waves.
Short taxi ride or biking to the beach.
0, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Banh Mi Phuong

Famous for its banh mi, enjoy one of the best sandwiches in Vietnam.
Short ride back to town.
50000, 1 hour

8:00 PM

Evening Lantern Experience

Wander back through Hoi An, as the town lights up with colorful lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere.
Walk back to Ancient Town.
0, Flexible
Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 8: Hue Historical Exploration

Hue, Vietnam on December 18, 2024

8:00 AM

Travel from Hoi An to Hue

Travel through the scenic Hai Van Pass via bus from Hoi An to Hue.
Pre-arranged bus service, about 3 hours.
200000, 3 hours

11:00 AM

Visit the Imperial City

Step back in time in the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site full of history and beautiful architecture.
Walking from the bus station.
150000, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Com Hen

Try the local specialty, Com Hen, a rice dish served with tiny clams.
Short walk to the restaurant.
50000, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Thien Mu Pagoda

Explore the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda by the Perfume River, an important cultural site.
Short taxi ride to the pagoda.
50000, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Boat trip on the Perfume River

Enjoy a relaxing boat trip on the Perfume River, taking in the tranquil scenery.
Boat rental near the pagoda.
200000, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Hanh Restaurant

End the day with a meal at Hanh Restaurant, known for its traditional Vietnamese atmosphere.
Return by boat to the city.
100000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hue

Day 9: Cultural Heaven in Hue

Hue, Vietnam on December 19, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at La Carambole

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at La Carambole, featuring classical French dishes.
Short walk from your accommodation.
120000, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Khai Dinh Tomb

Explore Khai Dinh Tomb, an impressive example of royal architecture surrounded by lush gardens.
Taxi to Khai Dinh Tomb, about 30 minutes.
100000, 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Tu Duc Tomb

Discover Tu Duc Tomb, another stunning tomb known for its intricate designs and serene surroundings.
Taxi ride from Khai Dinh Tomb, about 15 minutes.
100000, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Banh Khoai Chinh

Enjoy a traditional banh khoai, a crispy pancake filled with shrimp and vegetables.
Taxi back towards the city, about 20 minutes.
50000, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Leisure Time for Shopping or Spa

Use this free time to shop for souvenirs or pamper yourself at a local spa.
Walking around the city.
Variable, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Orchid Restaurant

Savor some unique Hue dishes in this cozy restaurant.
Short taxi ride from your accommodation.
150000, 1.5 hours

8:00 PM

Evening stroll along the Perfume River

Enjoy an evening walk along the Perfume River, taking in the night view.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
0, Flexible
Find Hotels in Hue

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City Arrival

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on December 20, 2024

9:00 AM

Travel to Ho Chi Minh City

Fly from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City, ready to explore the vibrant culture of the south.
Flight, 1 hour.
1200000, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Check-in and Refresh

Arrive and check into your hotel, taking time to freshen up.
None needed.
0, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Pho 2000

Famous for being visited by Bill Clinton, enjoy a classic bowl of pho.
Short taxi or walk to Pho 2000.
50000, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit War Remnants Museum

Delve into the history of Vietnam at the War Remnants Museum, featuring powerful photos and exhibits.
Taxi to the museum.
20000, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Experience local commerce at Ben Thanh Market, perfect for souvenirs and snacks.
Short taxi ride from the museum.
0, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy a variety of Vietnamese dishes in a garden restaurant atmosphere.
Taxi to the restaurant, about 10 minutes.
200000, 2 hours

8:30 PM

Nightlife Experience

Venture out to explore the vibrant nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City with rooftop bars or street performances.
Walking or taxi based on preference.
Variable, Flexible
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 11: Day Trip to Cu Chi Tunnels

Cu Chi, Vietnam on December 21, 2024

7:00 AM

Travel to Cu Chi

Take an early morning bus to Cu Chi to explore the famous tunnels.
Pre-arranged tour bus.
400000, 1.5 hours

9:00 AM

Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

Discover the extensive network of tunnels used during the Vietnam War.
On guided tour.
0, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Enjoy a simple lunch at a nearby restaurant known for its local dish.
Short walk from the tunnel site.
50000, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Travel back to the city after an informative trip.
Pre-arranged tour bus.
0, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Jade Emperor Pagoda

Discover the beautiful jade-green Jade Emperor Pagoda, a serene escape from the hustle.
Taxi from your hotel, about 15 minutes.
0, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Relax and Freshen Up

Head back to the hotel to relax and freshen up.
Taxi back to the hotel.
0, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Le Jardin

Delight in French-Vietnamese fusion fare at Le Jardin, a cozy restaurant with outdoor seating.
Short walk from the hotel.
250000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Cu Chi

Day 12: Mekong Delta Adventure

Mekong Delta, Vietnam on December 22, 2024

7:00 AM

Travel to Mekong Delta

Join a guided tour to the Mekong Delta, famous for its picturesque waterways.
Pre-arranged tour bus, about 2 hours.
1000000, 2 hours

9:00 AM

Boat Tour on Mekong River

Embark on a boat tour through the lush scenery of the Mekong Delta, visiting small islands.
Included in the tour.
0, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Visit Local Maple-People

Engage with local families and learn about their traditional practices and mango candy production.
Included in the boat tour.
0, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch in the Delta

Enjoy a traditional Mekong lunch featuring local flavors on one of the islands.
Provided in the tour package.
0, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Continue Boat Tour

More exploration and enjoyment on the waters before heading back.
Included in the tour.
0, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Travel back to the bustling city after a day of adventure.
Included in the tour.
0, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Shang Palace

Wrap up the journey with a lavish dinner at Shang Palace, featuring gourmet Chinese cuisine.
Short walk from your hotel.
350000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Mekong Delta

Day 13: Departure

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on December 23, 2024

9:00 AM

Leisurely Breakfast

Have a relaxed breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café.
Walking distance.
100000, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Last-minute Shopping/Sightseeing

Utilize your remaining hours for any last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City.
Walking distance.
Variable, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Transfer to the airport

Head to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for departure.
Pre-arranged transport to the airport.
200000, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About vietnam

Trip Packing List: Vietnam (Late February 2026)
Packing List
Trip Packing List: Vietnam (8 days) + Koh Samui, Thailand (14 days) — 30 May 2026
Packing List
Vietnam Weather Guide: Regional Climates & Seasonal Trends
Weather Guide
Essential Vietnam Travel Guide: Visas, Safety & Tips
Travel Expert
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your vietnam Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go