Two Weeks in Vietnam: A Cultural Odyssey

Day 1: Arrival and Explore

Hanoi, Vietnam on March 7, 2025

10:00AM

Hoan Kiem Lake

A beautiful lake in the center of Hanoi, perfect for a morning stroll. The surrounding area is lively with many local vendors and coffee shops.
VND0, 1 hour

11:30AM

Café Giang

Try the famous egg coffee at this local café, a unique drink made from egg yolks, sugar, and coffee.
VND40,000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Old Quarter Exploration

Spend the afternoon wandering through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, shopping local handicrafts and trying street food.
VND0, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Enjoy the famous local dish of Cha Ca, grilled fish served with fresh herbs and vermicelli noodles.
VND200,000, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Culture and History

Hanoi, Vietnam on March 8, 2025

9:00AM

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Visit the final resting place of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, to understand the country's political history.
VND0, 1 hour

10:30AM

One Pillar Pagoda

A historic Buddhist temple and one of the most iconic structures in Vietnam, known for its unique architecture.
VND0, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Hanoi

Try Bun Cha, a delicious grilled pork dish served with noodles and fresh herbs, a favorite of the locals.
VND100,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

This museum showcases Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups through various exhibits and outdoor installations.
VND40,000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Water Puppet Show

Experience this unique cultural performance that dates back centuries, combining traditional music and storytelling.
VND100,000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at New Day Restaurant

A popular spot for tourists and locals alike, renowned for its diverse menu featuring traditional Vietnamese dishes.
VND150,000, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Cruising Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam on March 9, 2025

7:00AM

Travel to Ha Long Bay

Take a scenic bus ride to Ha Long Bay, famous for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands.
VND250,000, 3 hours

10:30AM

Ha Long Bay Boat Cruise

Enjoy a memorable boat cruise through the stunning archipelago, stopping to explore caves and floating fishing villages.
VND800,000, 4 hours

3:30PM

Swimming and Kayaking

Take a dip in the warm waters and kayak in serene areas for breathtaking views of the bay.
VND300,000, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner on the Boat

Savor a fresh seafood dinner while sailing through the bay at sunset, a truly unforgettable experience.
VND250,000, 2 hours

Day 4: Scenic Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, Vietnam on March 10, 2025

8:00AM

Travel to Ninh Binh

Journey to Ninh Binh, known for its stunning limestone karsts and rice paddies.
VND200,000, 2 hours

10:30AM

Tam Coc Boat Tour

Experience a picturesque boat ride through the beautiful emerald waters surrounded by lush greenery and limestone cliffs.
VND150,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Thai Vi Restaurant

Try the local specialty dishes in a charming restaurant with views of the landscape.
VND120,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Bich Dong Pagoda

Explore this beautiful pagoda set amidst caves and hills, known for its architecture and tranquility.
VND0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Quang Ninh Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious local meal featuring Ninh Binh's specialties amidst serene surroundings.
VND150,000, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Imperial Hue

Hue, Vietnam on March 11, 2025

8:00AM

Travel to Hue

Depart for Hue, the former imperial capital, to explore its rich history and culture.
VND250,000, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bun Bo Hue 24

Sample the famous Bun Bo Hue, a spicy beef noodle soup, at this well-known eatery.
VND70,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Imperial City

Tour the UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the Royal Palace during the Nguyen Dynasty.
VND200,000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Thien Mu Pagoda

This iconic pagoda is a symbol of Hue, located beautifully on the banks of the Perfume River.
VND0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ancient Hue

Dine at a restaurant that offers authentic Royal Vietnamese cuisine, complete with traditional ambiance.
VND300,000, 2 hours

Day 6: Relaxing Hue

Hue, Vietnam on March 12, 2025

9:00AM

Visit Tomb of Minh Mang

Explore the grand tomb of Emperor Minh Mang set in a beautiful landscape of pine trees and lakes.
VND100,000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Loc Nguyen Restaurant

Savor expert-crafted dishes that reflect the delicate flavors of Hue's cuisine.
VND150,000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Perfume River

Take a boat ride along the river to appreciate the scenery and tranquility of Hue.
VND200,000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Khai Dinh Tomb

Visit this ornate tomb known for its unique architecture combining Vietnamese and European styles.
VND100,000, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Rice Restaurant

Dine on a delightful array of northern and southern Vietnamese dishes in a cozy setting.
VND200,000, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Charming Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam on March 13, 2025

8:00AM

Travel to Hoi An

Enjoy a scenic drive along the coast as you head to Hoi An, famous for its well-preserved ancient town.
VND300,000, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Morning Glory

This restaurant is known for its incredible local dishes and culinary workshops that provide insight into Vietnamese cuisine.
VND200,000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Wander through the enchanting streets of Hoi An, filled with historic buildings, shops, and vibrant lanterns.
VND120,000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Japanese Covered Bridge

An iconic symbol of Hoi An, this beautifully preserved bridge is a must-see for its historical significance.
VND0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Mango Mango

Experience innovative dishes that blend local flavors and international influences, beautifully presented.
VND250,000, 2 hours

Day 8: Cultural Immersion

Hoi An, Vietnam on March 14, 2025

9:00AM

My Son Sanctuary

Visit these ancient Hindu temples nestled in the jungle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that reflects Vietnam's rich history.
VND150,000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nu Eatery

A local café that boasts creative dishes made with fresh ingredients, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
VND180,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Cooking Class

Join a cooking class where you can learn to make traditional Vietnamese dishes and enjoy a meal together.
VND500,000, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Market Restaurant

Savor a large variety of seafood and local dishes, famous for its bustling atmosphere.
VND220,000, 2 hours

Day 9: Coastal Da Nang

Da Nang, Vietnam on March 15, 2025

9:00AM

Travel to Da Nang

Head to the coastal city of Da Nang, known for its beaches and modern skyline.
VND150,000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Marble Mountains

Explore this cluster of marble hills, famous for its caves and Buddhist sanctuaries.
VND40,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Han River Bridge Restaurant

Enjoy waterfront dining with a menu showcasing local seafood and grilled fare while overlooking the Han River.
VND250,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at My Khe Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful beach.
VND0, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ba Duong

Famous for its Vietnamese-style pancakes, enjoy a popular local dish that locals love.
VND100,000, 1.5 hours

Day 10: Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on March 16, 2025

8:00AM

Travel to Ho Chi Minh City

Fly from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling economic hub of Vietnam.
VND1,500,000, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit War Remnants Museum

Gain insight into the Vietnam War through numerous exhibits and photographs that document the conflict.
VND40,000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Pho Hoa

Sample the best Pho in town at this iconic establishment known for its authentic flavors.
VND80,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Ben Thanh Market

A central marketplace in Ho Chi Minh City, great for shopping local products and tasting street foods.
VND0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy a variety of Vietnamese dishes prepared in traditional style in a beautiful garden setting.
VND150,000, 1.5 hours

Day 11: Historical Exploration

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on March 17, 2025

9:00AM

Cu Chi Tunnels

Explore the vast network of tunnels used during the Vietnam War, providing a unique perspective on history.
VND90,000, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ngon Villa

Dine in a beautiful villa setting with a menu that combines various regional Vietnamese cuisines.
VND230,000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica

Admire the French colonial architecture of this cathedral, a remarkable landmark in the city.
VND0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Refinery

Enjoy a blend of French and Vietnamese cuisine in a charming setting with a vibrant atmosphere.
VND300,000, 1.5 hours

Day 12: Mekong Delta Adventure

Mekong Delta, Vietnam on March 18, 2025

8:00AM

Travel to Mekong Delta

Venture to the Mekong Delta, known for its vast waterways and vibrant culture.
VND200,000, 2 hours

10:00AM

Boat Tour in the Delta

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride through the lush waterways, visiting local fruit farms and stilt houses.
VND150,000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Family’s Home

Experience authentic Mekong cuisine prepared by locals, enjoying the warmth of a family setting.
VND100,000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Local Markets

Explore local markets filled with produce, handicrafts, and charming souvenirs.
VND0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mekong Rustic

Enjoy farm-to-table dining at this beautiful restaurant that offers local delicacies.
VND200,000, 2 hours

Day 13: Cultural Exchange

Mekong Delta, Vietnam on March 19, 2025

8:00AM

Visit Local Villages

Discover the rural lifestyle of the Mekong Delta by visiting traditional villages and interacting with locals.
VND0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ben Tre Restaurant

Savor local dishes made from fresh ingredients sourced directly from the Delta.
VND150,000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Cooking Class

Join a cooking class focused on traditional Mekong dishes, learning family recipes from locals.
VND500,000, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The River Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful meal with river views, featuring dishes made from local ingredients.
VND250,000, 1.5 hours

Day 14: Departure Day

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on March 20, 2025

9:00AM

Last-Minute Shopping

Spend your last morning picking up souvenirs and enjoying final bites of Vietnamese street food.
VND0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Pho 24

Relish one last bowl of Pho at this popular chain known for its consistency.
VND80,000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Depart for Airport

Make your way to the airport for your departure, taking with you wonderful memories of Vietnam.
VND0, 1 hour