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

8-Day Vietnam Adventure Itinerary: From the North to the South

Viewed by 109 travelers

Day 1: Explore Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

9:00 AM

Breakfast at The Hanoi Social Club

Start your day with a delightful meal at this charming café known for its healthy dishes and warm ambiance as you blend with local culture.
Walk or take a taxi to the café which is located in the Old Quarter.
VND 150,000, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore Hoan Kiem Lake

Stroll around this scenic lake, where you'll find the iconic Turtle Tower and locals practicing tai chi.
Walking distance from breakfast location.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Ta

Savor authentic Vietnamese bun cha, featuring grilled pork and noodles served with a side of fresh herbs.
10-minute walk from Hoan Kiem Lake.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Pay your respects at the monumental mausoleum where the revered leader lies in state.
20-minute walk or 5-minute taxi ride.
Free, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Tour the Temple of Literature

Discover Vietnam's first university surrounded by serene gardens and beautiful architecture.
15-minute taxi ride from Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
VND 30,000, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Indulge in the famous cha ca, grilled fish served with herbs, noodles, and peanuts.
30-minute walk or 10-minute taxi ride from Temple of Literature.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 2: Cultural Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen

Enjoy a steaming bowl of pho from this acclaimed establishment known for its rich broth and flavorful herbs.
Take a taxi to the restaurant.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Learn about the diverse cultures of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups through exhibits and a beautiful outdoor exhibition area.
Take a taxi, about 15 minutes away.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at KOTO

Support this social enterprise and enjoy a delicious meal while helping underprivileged youth receive vocational training.
15-minute taxi ride back to the city center.
VND 120,000, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore the Old Quarter

Wander through narrow alleys packed with shops, street food, and vibrant local life.
Walking from lunch location.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Traditional Water Puppet Show

Enjoy an enchanting performance that showcases a unique aspect of Vietnamese culture.
5-minute walk from Old Quarter.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Green Tangerine

Dine at this atmospheric French-Vietnamese restaurant for an exquisite culinary experience.
15-minute walk from the theater.
VND 350,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 3: Halong Bay Cruise

Halong Bay, Vietnam

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel before departing to Halong Bay.
Time for packing and preparing to depart.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Halong Bay

Embark on a scenic 4-hour drive through picturesque countryside to reach the breathtaking Halong Bay.
Shared transfer or private car arrangement.
USD 15-20, 4 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch on Cruise

Savor a fresh seafood lunch while cruising through the emerald waters of Halong Bay.
Onboard the cruise ship.
Included in cruise package, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Kayaking & Swimming

Kayak through stunning limestone caves and swim in secluded bays during this exciting adventure.
Kayaking gear provided by the cruise.
Included in cruise package, 2.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Sung Sot Cave

Explore one of the largest and most impressive caves in Halong Bay and witness its remarkable formations.
10-minute boat ride from the main cruise ship.
Included in cruise package, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner on Cruise

Relish a sumptuous dinner while enjoying the serene sunset over Halong Bay.
Onboard the cruise ship.
Included in cruise package, 2 hours

9:00 PM

Onboard Entertainment

Relax and enjoy the evening with movies or games arranged by the cruise staff.
Onboard the cruise ship.
Free, Until bedtime
Find Hotels in Halong Bay

Day 4: Historic Hue

Hue, Vietnam

7:00 AM

Breakfast on Cruise

Enjoy a light breakfast while taking in the last views of the stunning bay.
Onboard the cruise ship.
Included in cruise package, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Hue

Take a bus or private transfer back to the mainland before driving to Hue.
Directly connect to transportation arranged by cruise.
USD 25, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Je Cafe

Enjoy a meal at this local favorite while trying traditional dishes from the central region.
Located near the Imperial City.
VND 130,000, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Explore the Imperial City

Step into history as you wander through the ancient citadel that once housed the royal family of the Nguyen dynasty.
Walking distance from lunch location.
VND 150,000, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Visit Thien Mu Pagoda

Take a scenic boat ride on the Perfume River to visit this iconic pagoda and its enchanting beauty.
15-minute boat ride from the Imperial City.
VND 50,000, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Ancient Hue

Delight in an exquisite royal cuisine experience in a tranquil garden setting.
15-minute taxi ride back to the city center.
VND 400,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hue

Day 5: Charming Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Savor a delicious breakfast at your hotel before heading to picturesque Hoi An.
Time for packing and departure.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Hoi An

Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive with stunning vistas along the coast.
Private or shared transport can be arranged.
USD 20, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Morning Glory

Taste local specialties like Cao Lau and White Rose dumplings at this famous eatery.
Close to the ancient town of Hoi An.
VND 150,000, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Walk through the well-preserved streets filled with ancient architecture, shops, and lanterns.
Walking around the town.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:00 PM

Get a Tailored Suit

Visit one of Hoi An's famous tailor shops for a custom-made outfit.
Nearby tailor shops are abundant throughout the Ancient Town.
From VND 500,000, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Cargo Club

Indulge in a stunning riverside dining experience with a fusion menu reflecting Vietnamese and international cuisines.
Walking distance from tailor shops.
VND 250,000, 1.5 hours

9:00 PM

Lantern Viewing

Admire the enchanting lantern-lit streets of Hoi An at night for a magical atmosphere.
Walking around the Ancient Town.
Free, Until bedtime
Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 6: Nha Trang Beach

Nha Trang, Vietnam

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for a beach day.
Included in hotel stay.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Nha Trang

Catch a flight to the sunny coast of Nha Trang, known for its pristine beaches.
Taxi to the airport for a short flight.
USD 50, 1 hour (flight time)

9:30 AM

Check-in at hotel

Drop off your bags and get ready to hit the beach.
Walking distance from the airport.
Included in hotel stay, 30 minutes

10:00 AM

Beach Time at Nha Trang

Relax on the soft sandy beach, swim in the clear waters, or try out some water sports.
Directly on the beach.
Free, 4 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Louisiane Brewhouse

Enjoy a meal at this beachfront restaurant known for its craft beer and delicious seafood.
Walking distance along the beach.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Visit Long Son Pagoda

Explore this beautiful pagoda, home to a massive white Buddha statue and stunning city views.
Taxi ride around 15 minutes.
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Lanterns Vietnamese Restaurant

Experience traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a cozy atmosphere with friendly service.
10-minute taxi ride back to the beach area.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nha Trang

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before exploring Saigon.
Included in hotel stay.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Ho Chi Minh City

Catch a short flight to the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh.
Taxi to the airport for a short flight.
USD 50, 1 hour (flight time)

10:00 AM

Visit the War Remnants Museum

Gain insight into Vietnam's turbulent history through captivating exhibits and photographs.
Taxi ride from airport about 20 minutes.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Pho 2000

Enjoy a bowl of renowned pho in the restaurant made famous by Bill Clinton's visit.
5-minute walk from the museum.
VND 70,000, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Wander this vibrant market filled with local crafts, textiles, and street food.
Walking distance from lunch location.
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Visit the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica

Marvel at this stunning French-colonial cathedral located in the city center.
10-minute walk from Ben Thanh Market.
Free, 30 minutes

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Chopsticks

Experience high-end Vietnamese dining with a modern twist overlooking the city skyline.
15-minute taxi ride from the basilica.
VND 500,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 8: Mekong Delta Adventure

Mekong Delta, Vietnam

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before departing for an adventurous day in the Mekong Delta.
Included in hotel stay.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Mekong Delta

Embark on a journey towards the lush landscapes of the Mekong Delta, known for its beautiful waterways.
Bus or private transport can be arranged.
USD 20, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Boat Trip on the Mekong River

Enjoy a scenic boat trip through the delta's intricate waterways and visit local markets.
Tours will be arranged upon arrival.
USD 25, 3 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Mekong Rest Stop

Dine on a meal featuring local specialties prepared in a picturesque setting.
Part of the boat tour itinerary.
Included in tour cost, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Local Villages

Visit traditional villages and learn about their lifestyle, crafts, and local produce.
Part of the tour itinerary.
Included in tour cost, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Travel back to the city to enjoy your last evening in Vietnam.
Bus or private transport arranged by the tour.
USD 20, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Farewell Dinner at Ngon Restaurant

Celebrate your adventures with a delicious farewell dinner featuring a variety of Vietnamese dishes.
Walking distance from your hotel.
VND 300,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Mekong Delta
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