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Epic 2025 Vietnam Road Trip: Culture, Nature & Culinary Delights

Viewed by 73 travelers

Day 1: Discover Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Phở Gia Truyền

Start your culinary journey with a traditional beef pho at one of Hanoi's most famous pho spots.
Located in the Old Quarter, easily accessible by walking.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Visit this monumental site to understand more about Vietnam's history and its revered leader.
Walk or cycle from the breakfast spot; it’s approximately a 15-minute ride.
VND 0, 1 hour

11:00AM

One Pillar Pagoda

A short walk will lead you to this iconic architectural marvel, which is a symbol of Hanoi.
15-minute walk from Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
VND 0, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Enjoy delicious bun cha served with grilled pork and noodles, famously once visited by Barack Obama.
Take a short taxi ride, about 10 minutes.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Old Quarter

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local life, explore shops and sample street food.
Walk back to the Old Quarter; it's less than a 20-minute walk.
VND 50,000 (for snacks), 2 hours

4:00PM

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Enjoy a unique cultural experience with a traditional puppet show showcasing Vietnamese folklore.
It's a 15-minute walk from the Old Quarter.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long

Savour the famous cha ca (grilled fish with dill) in an atmosphere filled with local charm.
A quick taxi ride, approximately 10 minutes.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening stroll at Hoan Kiem Lake

Take a pleasant evening stroll around the picturesque lake to unwind after a busy day.
Short walk from dinner.
VND 0, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 2: Cruising Halong Bay

Halong Bay, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast buffet at your accommodation before departure.
Onsite at hotel.
VND 60,000, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Halong Bay

Take a shuttle bus to reach the stunning Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Shuttle bus from hotel, approx. 4-hour journey.
VND 200,000, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch on the boat

Indulge in a seafood lunch while sailing through the picturesque limestone islands.
Onboard your cruise.
Included in the cruise fare, 1 hour

1:00PM

Kayaking in Halong Bay

Paddle your kayak through the majestic karsts and enjoy the serene beauty of the bay.
Kayaks provided at the dock.
Included in the cruise fare, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Sung Sot Cave

Explore one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Halong Bay.
Hiking up to the cave entrance.
VND 40,000, 1 hour

4:30PM

Relax on the deck

Enjoy the breathtaking views while sipping Vietnamese coffee on the deck.
Onboard your cruise.
VND 30,000 for coffee, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner aboard the cruise

Relish a fresh seafood dinner while the sun sets over the bay.
Onboard your cruise.
Included in the cruise fare, 1 hour

8:00PM

Evening activities

Enjoy socializing or possibly a cooking class on the cruise.
Onboard your cruise.
Varies, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Halong Bay

Day 3: Cultural Wonders in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast on the boat

Start your day with a hearty breakfast on the cruise.
Onboard your cruise.
Included in the cruise fare, 1 hour

8:00AM

Journey to Ninh Binh

Disembark and take a bus to Ninh Binh to explore its wonderful attractions.
Shuttle bus from Halong Bay, about 2-hour drive.
VND 150,000, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Trang An Scenic Landscape

Embark on a boat tour through the breathtaking karst landscape and lush greenery.
Boarding location easily accessible through local transport.
VND 200,000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a local restaurant

Savour traditional dishes like goat meat and rice, a Ninh Binh specialty.
Walk or cycle to a nearby eatery.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Bich Dong Pagoda

Visit this ancient pagoda set against a stunning backdrop of limestone mountains.
A short taxi ride from lunch.
VND 20,000, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Tam Coc

Take a serene boat ride through this beautiful area often called 'Halong Bay on land'.
Short local transport from Bich Dong Pagoda.
VND 150,000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at a riverside restaurant

Enjoy a delightful meal overlooking the river as the sun sets.
Easily walkable from Tam Coc dock.
VND 100,000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening leisure at hotel

Unwind at your hotel or explore the local area at your own pace.
Return to your accommodation.
VND 0, Varies
Find Hotels in Ninh Binh

Day 4: Historical Hue

Hue, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Feast on local delicacies at your hotel before heading out.
Onsite at hotel.
VND 70,000, 1 hour

8:00AM

Train to Hue

Enjoy scenic views as you travel by train to the historical city of Hue.
Train station, about 30 minutes from Ninh Binh.
VND 250,000, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Imperial City

Step back in time and roam the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Imperial Citadel.
Accessed by foot from the train station.
VND 150,000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hanh Restaurant

Try the delicious local specialty, bun bo Hue (beef noodle soup).
Short walk from the Imperial City.
VND 70,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Thien Mu Pagoda

Discover the charming architecture of one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam.
Get there via a short boat ride or taxi from the restaurant.
VND 10,000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Khai Dinh Tomb

Visit the extravagant royal tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh.
Taxi or motorbike rental option available.
VND 75,000, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Les Jardins de la Carambole

Enjoy a lovely dinner in a tranquil garden setting.
Taxi from the tomb area.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening river cruise

Relax on a boat cruise along the Perfume River, taking in the night atmosphere of Hue.
Access from the restaurant; boats are readily available.
VND 100,000, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Hue

Day 5: Charming Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Start the day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at your hotel.
Onsite at hotel.
VND 70,000, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Hoi An

Take a scenic bus ride from Hue to Hoi An, known for its well-preserved ancient town.
Bus station, approximately 3 hours.
VND 150,000, 3 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Morning Glory

Taste authentic Hoi An dishes like white rose dumplings.
Easy walking distance from the bus station.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Ancient Town

Wander through the charming streets and historic sites of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Self-guided exploration on foot.
VND 120,000 (entrance fees for historical sites), 3 hours

4:00PM

Visit Japanese Covered Bridge

A symbolic bridge of Hoi An, it showcases the town’s unique architecture.
Walking distance within Ancient Town.
VND 30,000, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at The Market

Indulge in a variety of street food and local flavours at Hoi An's vibrant night market.
Short walk to the market.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening lantern experience

Enjoy the magical atmosphere of Hoi An by night, adorned with glowing lanterns.
Explore on foot.
VND 50,000 (for a lantern purchase), 1 hour
Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 6: Beaches of Da Nang

Da Nang, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading out to the beach.
Onsite at hotel.
VND 70,000, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Da Nang

Travel to Da Nang, famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere.
Local bus from Hoi An, approximately 1 hour.
VND 30,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

My Khe Beach relaxation

Spend a leisurely morning soaking up the sun on the stunning My Khe Beach.
Short walk from the bus stop.
VND 0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at local beach shack

Try fresh seafood and local dishes right by the beach.
Easily accessible from the beach.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Marble Mountains

Explore this stunning limestone formation known for its caves and temples.
Local transport can easily take you; about 30 minutes.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Evening at the Dragon Bridge

Marvel at the grand dragon bridge which lights up exquisitely at night.
Return transport from Marble Mountains, about 30 minutes.
VND 0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at An Hai Seafood

Savour delicious seafood dishes at this highly-rated local restaurant.
Short taxi ride from the Dragon Bridge.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening at the beach boardwalk

Enjoy an evening stroll along the beach boardwalk, soaking in the sea breeze.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
VND 0, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Da Nang

Day 7: Relaxing in Nha Trang

Nha Trang, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast in your hotel.
Onsite at hotel.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Nha Trang

Visit Nha Trang, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Local bus to Nha Trang, approx. 10 hours with stops.
VND 300,000, 10 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Lanterns Vietnamese Restaurant

Delight in authentic Vietnamese cuisine at this popular restaurant.
Short walk from your accommodation.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Beach stroll at Nha Trang

Enjoy a leisurely evening walk along the picturesque Nha Trang beach.
Walking distance from dinner.
VND 0, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Nha Trang

Day 8: Bustling Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Nourish yourself with an energising breakfast before your travels.
Onsite at hotel.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Ho Chi Minh City

Head to the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh by bus, ready to uncover its charms.
Local transport, roughly a 10-hour bus journey.
VND 300,000, 10 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Cuc Gach Quan

Experience farm-to-table dining at this locally-loved restaurant boasting traditional flavours.
Short taxi ride from accommodation.
VND 250,000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Night market exploration

Stroll through the night market to soak in the local culture and food experience.
Easy walking distance from dinner.
VND 50,000 (for snacks), 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 9: River Life in Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up for the day with breakfast before heading to the delta.
Onsite at hotel.
VND 70,000, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Mekong Delta

Delve into the lush landscapes of Mekong Delta via bus.
Bus station, about a 2-hour journey.
VND 150,000, 2 hours

10:30AM

Boat trip in Mekong Delta

Experience the vibrant life of the Mekong by taking a boat tour exploring the river and local lifestyle.
Starting point for boats is accessible by foot.
VND 200,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch with a local family

Email them in advance to arrange a lunch with a family, experiencing true Mekong hospitality.
In the local area.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit fruit orchards

Taste fresh native fruits directly from the orchards during an informative visit.
Short transport to the orchards.
VND 50,000, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a riverside restaurant

Enjoy fresh river fish and local dishes while contemplating the beauty of the delta.
Close to your orchard visit.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Night ride back to Ho Chi Minh City

Return to Ho Chi Minh City for the night, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Bus from the delta, about 2 hours.
VND 150,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Mekong Delta

Day 10: Island Escape to Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Savour a delightful breakfast before heading to Phu Quoc.
Onsite at hotel.
VND 70,000, 1 hour

8:30AM

Fly to Phu Quoc

Catch a short flight for a taste of paradise in Phu Quoc's pristine beaches.
Arranged taxi to airport (30 mins).
VND 1,200,000, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Beach time at Long Beach

Unwind and soak up the sun on the beautiful Long Beach – perfect for relaxation.
Local transport from the airport or hotel.
VND 0, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at a beachside shack

Enjoy freshly caught seafood right on the beach.
Easily accessible from wherever you are on the beach.
VND 150,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Snorkelling tour

Experience the vibrant marine life around Phu Quoc with a snorkelling adventure.
Tour company will pick up from the beach.
VND 300,000, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at the Night Market

Explore the night market for local flavours and fresh seafood delicacies.
Short local transport from the beach.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening at the beach

Stroll along the shore under the stars, reflecting on your vibrant Vietnam adventure.
Walking distance from the market.
VND 0, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Phu Quoc

Day 11: Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up for the final journey back to the bustling Ho Chi Minh City.
Onsite at hotel.
VND 70,000, 1 hour

8:30AM

Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

Take a quick flight back to the vibrant city, saying goodbye to the island vibes.
Taxi to the airport.
VND 1,200,000, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Last-minute shopping

Explore local shops for souvenirs and gifts before departing.
Easy access to various shopping areas from the airport.
Varies, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Ben Thanh Market

Indulge in some local dishes at the bustling market before concluding your trip.
Short taxi ride from the shopping area.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Departure

Wrap up your vibrant Vietnam adventure, leaving with beautiful memories.
Head to the airport.
VND 0, Varies
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
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