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11-Day Itinerary in Vietnam: Explore the Beauty from North to South in May

Viewed by 59 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 1, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pho Bat Dan

Start your day with the famous Hanoi Pho at Pho Bat Dan, known for its delicious beef broth and rice noodles.
USD3, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Hoan Kiem Lake

Stroll around the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the bustling city, perfect for photos and local interactions.
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Visit the Old Quarter

Wander through the lively streets of the Old Quarter, lined with shops, cafes, and street food vendors.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Try the famous Bun Cha, grilled pork served with rice noodles and herbs at this local favorite encountered by Obama.
USD5, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Pay your respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an important memorial to the father of modern Vietnam.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Tour the Temple of Literature

Explore Vietnam’s first university, a beautiful complex dedicated to Confucius, with stunning gardens and architecture.
USD1, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Savor a variety of Vietnamese dishes in a charming outdoor setting, known for its authentic flavors and local specialties.
USD10, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 2, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Daluva

Start your day with a delicious Vietnamese breakfast at Daluva, famous for their smoothies and poached eggs.
USD4, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Experience Vietnam's diverse cultures and ethnic groups through engaging exhibits and an outdoor traditional village.
USD2, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Cha Ca Thang Long

Enjoy Cha Ca, a unique grilled fish dish cooked right at your table, an essential culinary experience in Hanoi.
USD8, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore the Hanoi Opera House

Take a guided tour of the historic opera house, showcasing French colonial architecture.
USD5, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Coffee at Cafe Giang

Indulge in a cup of famous egg coffee at Cafe Giang, a local legacy for a sweet afternoon break.
USD2, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Shopping at Dong Xuan Market

Explore the largest market in Hanoi for unique souvenirs, handicrafts, and tasty snacks.
Free, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Hanoi Social Club

Experience a cozy atmosphere with a mix of Vietnamese and Western dishes, perfect for a relaxed evening.
USD8, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Halong Bay Trip

Halong Bay, Vietnam on May 3, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading to Halong Bay.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Departure to Halong Bay

Travel to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands.
USD25 (transportation), 4 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch on the cruise

Board a cruise and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch while soaking in stunning views.
USD40 (cruise cost), 2 hours

2:00 PM

Kayaking in Halong Bay

Explore the breathtaking bay by kayak, getting up close to caves and floating fishing villages.
Included in cruise, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Sung Sot Cave

Discover one of the largest and most impressive caves, known for its stunning stalagmites and stalactites.
USD5, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Return to Hanoi

Travel back to Hanoi from Halong Bay.
USD25 (transportation), 4 hours

9:00 PM

Dinner at The Green Tangerine

After returning to Hanoi, enjoy upscale Vietnamese cuisine in a chic dining atmosphere.
USD15, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Historic Hue

Hue, Vietnam on May 4, 2025

7:30 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading to Hue.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Train to Hue

Travel by train to Hue, known for its historic architecture and royal heritage.
USD15 (train cost), 3 hours

11:30 AM

Explore the Imperial City

Visit the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, once the center of the Nguyen Dynasty.
USD10, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Bun Bo Hue

Savor Bun Bo Hue, a spicy beef noodle soup that Hue is famous for.
USD5, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Thien Mu Pagoda

Explore this serene pagoda located on the banks of the Perfume River, a symbol of Hue’s spirituality.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Take a boat ride on the Perfume River

Enjoy a traditional boat ride on the Perfume River, getting picturesque views of Hue.
USD7, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Hanh Restaurant

Taste authentic local dishes with a great view of the river, specializing in Hue cuisine.
USD10, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam on May 5, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before heading to Hoi An.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Hoi An

Drive to Hoi An, a well-preserved ancient town known for its mix of cultures and colorful architecture.
USD15 (transportation), 3 hours

11:00 AM

Explore the Ancient Town

Wander through Hoi An's ancient streets, visiting historic buildings and vibrant markets.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Morning Glory

Taste traditional Hoi An dishes, emphasizing fresh local ingredients in a charming setting.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge

See this iconic structure built by the Japanese community in the 18th century, a symbol of Hoi An.
USD1, 30 minutes

3:30 PM

Paper Lantern Workshop

Join a lantern-making workshop where you can create your own beautiful Hoi An lantern.
USD12, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Cargo Club

Enjoy an exquisite dinner with options for local seafood and classic Vietnamese fare.
USD15, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Relaxing in Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam on May 6, 2025

8:30 AM

Breakfast at Nantes Cafe

Start your day at this cozy cafe, known for great coffee and breakfast options.
USD4, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit An Bang Beach

Spend a relaxing morning at An Bang Beach, known for its soft sand and local seafood shacks.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Tan Thanh Cafe

Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at this local gem, known for its beachside view.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Vietnamese Cooking Class

Participate in a cooking class to learn about Vietnamese culinary traditions and create your own dishes.
USD30, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Explore Hoi An Night Market

Stroll through the vibrant night market, featuring local crafts, food, and stunning lantern displays.
Free, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Cao Lao

Enjoy a unique Hoi An specialty called Cao Lao, delicious noodles with various toppings.
USD5, 1 hour
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Day 7: Beach Time in Nha Trang

Nha Trang, Vietnam on May 7, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with breakfast before departing for Nha Trang.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Nha Trang

Travel to Nha Trang, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.
USD20 (transportation), 4 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Lanterns Vietnamese Restaurant

Savor fresh seafood and Vietnamese coffee at Lanterns, popular among travelers.
USD10, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Relax at Nha Trang Beach

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun on the beautiful sandy beaches of Nha Trang.
Free, 4 hours

5:30 PM

Visit Long Son Pagoda

Check out this stunning Buddhist temple featuring a giant white Buddha statue.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Story Beach Club

Dine at Story Beach Club, offering great seafood with a views of the sunset.
USD15, 2 hours
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Day 8: Adventure in Nha Trang

Nha Trang, Vietnam on May 8, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast in preparation for an adventurous day ahead.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Vinpearl Land

Spend the day at Vinpearl Land, an amusement park with rides, beaches, and attractions.
USD30, 6 hours

4:00 PM

Return to hotel for relaxation

Take some time to unwind after a day of thrilling attractions and activities.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at the Sailing Club

Experience an upscale dinner with a beachfront view at the Sailing Club, famous for its vibrant nightlife.
USD20, 2 hours
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Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on May 9, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel your body with a hearty breakfast before exploring Ho Chi Minh City.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

Board a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling economic center of Vietnam.
USD50 (flight cost), 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit The Independence Palace

Tour this historical landmark significant to Vietnam’s history, showcasing its architecture and exhibits.
USD2, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Pho 2000

Enjoy a bowl of world-famous Pho in a local eatery frequented by celebrities.
USD5, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore the War Remnants Museum

Witness powerful exhibits about the Vietnam War and its aftermath, providing significant insight into history.
USD2, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Shopping at Ben Thanh Market

Experience Ho Chi Minh City's bustling market scene while searching for souvenirs and local goods.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Kachou

Dine at an elegant restaurant offering a mix of traditional and modern Vietnamese cuisine.
USD15, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 10: Historical Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on May 10, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Have a satisfying breakfast at your hotel before continuing your exploration.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica

Marvel at the stunning French architecture of the Notre-Dame Cathedral, an iconic symbol of the city.
Free, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore the Saigon Central Post Office

Visit this historic post office, designed by Gustave Eiffel, showcasing impressive architecture.
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Cuc Gach Quan

Savor contemporary Vietnamese dishes made from fresh local ingredients at this cozy venue.
USD10, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Take a guided tour of Cu Chi Tunnels

Explore the underground Cu Chi Tunnels, learning about their significance during the Vietnam War.
USD10, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Head back to the city and relax at your hotel.
USD10 (transportation), 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Loop

End your day with delicious Vietnamese comfort food at The Loop, accompanied by lush garden views.
USD12, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 11: Departure

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on May 11, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Savor your final breakfast in Vietnam at your hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Last-minute shopping

Take advantage of your last hours in Saigon to pick up any souvenirs or local goods.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Check-out and transfer to the airport

Prepare for departure by checking out and heading towards the airport.
USD15 (transportation), 1 hour
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
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