How many days do you need in Vietnam?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Vietnam, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Vietnam?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Vietnam. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

7-Day Cultural & Scenic Exploration of Vietnam

Day 1: Historic Hanoi Stroll

Hanoi, Vietnam on April 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pho Bat Dan

Enjoy an authentic bowl of Pho, Hanoi's iconic noodle soup, at this famous local eatery known for its rich broth and fresh ingredients.

VND60000, 1h0m

9:30am

Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Take a serene walk around the historic lake and visit the Ngoc Son Temple, a cultural and spiritual landmark in the heart of Hanoi. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

VND30000, 1h30m

11:30am

Old Quarter Exploration

Stroll through Hanoi's bustling Old Quarter, famous for its narrow streets, traditional shops, and vibrant street life where history meets local commerce.

Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Taste Bun Cha, a Northern Vietnamese dish featuring grilled pork with noodles and fresh herbs, served with dipping sauce; made popular globally.

VND70000, 1h0m

3:00pm

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Explore ethnological exhibits showcasing the diverse cultures of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups; a culturally enriching experience open 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

VND40000, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Savor the famous Hanoi specialty 'Cha Ca' – grilled fish with turmeric and dill, served sizzling at this well-known local restaurant.

VND150000, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 2: Halong Bay Cruise

Halong Bay, Vietnam on April 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel in Hanoi

Light breakfast to start your day before transfer to Halong Bay.

Included in hotel stay, 1h0m

8:00am

Transfer to Halong Bay

Enjoy a 3.5-hour scenic bus transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay, passing through picturesque countryside landscapes.

VND300000, 3h30m

12:00pm

Boarding Halong Bay Cruise

Embark on a mid-range cruise ship that offers lunch on board while sailing through the stunning karst formations of the UNESCO heritage site.

USD100, 3h0m

3:00pm

Kayaking and Cave Visit

Experience kayaking in calm bay waters and tour a limestone cave, discovering geological wonders and tranquil seascapes.

Included in cruise, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner on Cruise

Enjoy a sunset dinner featuring fresh seafood with Vietnamese flavors on the boat deck.

Included in cruise, 1h30m

Overnight

Stay on Cruise

Spend the night on the cruise, allowing you to experience the magic of the bay at dawn.

Included in cruise, Overnight

Find Hotels in Halong Bay

Day 3: Ninh Binh Landscapes

Ninh Binh, Vietnam on April 27, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast on Cruise

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast watching the bay’s morning mist before disembarking.

Included in cruise, 1h0m

9:00am

Return Transfer to Hanoi then Ninh Binh

Travel back to Hanoi and then take a 2-hour drive to Ninh Binh, famed for limestone karsts and river scenery.

VND350000, 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Highway4 Restaurant

Stop for authentic Vietnamese dishes in a comfortable setting in Ninh Binh town.

VND90000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Boat Ride at Tam Coc

Enjoy a peaceful 2-hour sampan boat ride along the Ngo Dong river, passing through caves and stunning rice paddies.

VND150000, 2h0m

5:00pm

Visit Bich Dong Pagoda

Climb limestone steps to the tranquil pagoda with panoramic views of the countryside. Open until 6 PM.

VND20000, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Chez Loan

Relish local specialties such as goat meat and crispy rice, served in a rustic family-run setting.

VND120000, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Ninh Binh

Day 4: Historic Hue

Hue, Vietnam on April 28, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel in Ninh Binh

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before the long journey south.

Included in hotel stay, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel to Hue by Train

Take the scenic 6-hour Reunification Express train along the historic coast route, absorbing coastal mountain views.

VND500000, 6h0m

2:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Ancient Hue Restaurant

Savor royal cuisine inspired Vietnamese dishes within a setting reminiscent of the Nguyen era palaces.

VND150000, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit Imperial City (The Citadel)

Explore the UNESCO-listed ancient capital's palace complex, gates, tombs, and temples; open 8 AM to 5:30 PM.

VND150000, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Le Parfum Restaurant

Dine on fine Vietnamese and fusion dishes while overlooking the Perfume River.

VND200000, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Hue

Day 5: Charm of Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam on April 29, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel in Hue

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese breakfast before departure.

Included in hotel stay, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive from Hue to Hoi An

Drive along the scenic Hai Van Pass, a spectacular coastal route taking about 3 hours.

VND300000, 3h0m

11:30am

Lunch at Cargo Club Hoi An

Enjoy Western and Vietnamese cuisine in a lovely riverside courtyard setting.

VND150000, 1h0m

1:00pm

Walking Tour of Ancient Town

Explore the UNESCO heritage site with its wooden merchants' houses, old temples, and lantern-lit streets; many shops open till 7 PM.

VND120000, 3h0m

5:30pm

Visit Japanese Covered Bridge

Admire the iconic 16th-century bridge at sunset, a must-see symbol of Hoi An.

Free, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Morning Glory Restaurant

Taste authentic central Vietnamese specialties including Cao Lau noodles in a charming setting.

VND180000, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 6: Da Nang Beach & City

Da Nang, Vietnam on April 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel in Hoi An

Have a relaxed breakfast before heading towards Da Nang.

Included in hotel stay, 1h0m

9:30am

Transfer to Da Nang

Short 45-minute drive to the coastal city known for stunning beaches and vibrant urban life.

VND150000, 45m

10:30am

Relax at My Khe Beach

Spend your morning on this beautiful sandy beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing; open all day.

Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bé Anh Seafood Restaurant

Savor fresh seafood dishes with local flavor at this popular beachfront restaurant.

VND180000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Marble Mountains

Explore caves, pagodas and panoramic views atop these five limestone hills; open 7 AM to 5 PM.

VND40000, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dragon Bridge & Riverside Walk

Enjoy the lively evening atmosphere along the Han River; watch the Dragon Bridge’s fire and water show on weekends at 9 PM.

Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Madame Lan

Relish a mix of Vietnamese classics and modern dishes in a stylish ambiance.

VND200000, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Da Nang

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City Highlights

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on May 1, 2025

7:00am

Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

Early morning flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City, approximately 1.5 hours.

VND800000, 1h30m

9:30am

Breakfast at L’Usine Cafe

Enjoy a western-style breakfast blended with Vietnamese coffee in the vibrant downtown area.

VND120000, 1h0m

10:30am

War Remnants Museum

Visit this impactful museum showcasing Vietnam War artifacts and history; open 7:30 AM to 6 PM.

VND40000, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Pho Hoa

Dine at one of Ho Chi Minh City's oldest and most famous Pho shops for a true local flavor.

VND70000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica and Central Post Office

Walk through the central landmarks showcasing French Colonial architecture; free entry, open 7 AM to 6 PM.

Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Ben Thanh Market

Shop local crafts, textiles, and street foods at this bustling market open till 7 PM.

Free entry, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Secret Garden

Experience dishes from traditional Vietnamese recipes served in a charming rooftop garden setting.

VND180000, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Step 1 Outline Preview:

7-Day Cultural & Scenic Exploration of Vietnam

Day 1: Historic Hanoi Stroll

8:00am

9:30am

11:30am

1:00pm

3:00pm

6:30pm

Day 2: Halong Bay Cruise

7:00am

8:00am

12:00pm

3:00pm

6:30pm

Overnight

Day 3: Ninh Binh Landscapes

7:00am

9:00am

1:00pm

2:30pm

5:00pm

7:00pm

Day 4: Historic Hue

7:00am

8:00am

2:00pm

3:30pm

6:00pm

Day 5: Charm of Hoi An

7:00am

8:00am

11:30am

1:00pm

5:30pm

7:00pm

Day 6: Da Nang Beach & City

8:00am

9:30am

10:30am

12:30pm

2:00pm

5:00pm

7:30pm

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City Highlights

7:00am

9:30am

10:30am

12:30pm

2:00pm

3:30pm

6:00pm

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