7-Day Family and Friends Vietnam Adventure: From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 1: Explore Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on June 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Pho Bat Dan

Start your morning with authentic Northern Vietnamese Pho at Pho Bat Dan, a famous local eatery known for its rich flavors and bustling environment.
VND50000, 1h

10:00am

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Enjoy a tranquil walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the historic Ngoc Son Temple located on a small island, reflecting Vietnam's cultural heritage.
VND30000, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Cha Ca Thang Long

Taste the iconic Hanoi dish, Cha Ca (grilled fish with turmeric and dill), at the renowned Cha Ca Thang Long restaurant.
VND150000, 1h

1:30pm

Visit the Temple of Literature

Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university established in 1070, showcasing beautiful architecture and peaceful gardens.
VND30000, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Old Quarter

Wander through Hanoi’s Old Quarter to experience bustling streets, street vendors, and traditional crafts.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Dine where former President Obama enjoyed Bun Cha, a Hanoi specialty featuring grilled pork and noodles, perfect for the whole family.
VND70000, 1h
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Day 2: Cultural & Historical Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on June 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kafeshop Hanoi

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast with traditional Vietnamese coffee and freshly baked pastries at this cozy café.
VND60000, 1h

9:00am

Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex

Learn about Vietnam’s beloved leader at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and explore the Presidential Palace and One Pillar Pagoda nearby.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Xoi Yen

Try Xoi, a sticky rice dish with various savory and sweet toppings at one of Hanoi’s oldest eateries.
VND40000, 1h

1:00pm

Water Puppet Theatre

Watch a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show, an artistic experience that the entire family will enjoy. Shows start around 3pm and last about 50 minutes.
VND100000, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at West Lake & Tran Quoc Pagoda

Visit scenic West Lake and the historic Tran Quoc Pagoda, ideal for a peaceful afternoon stroll.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy a wide variety of authentic Vietnamese dishes in a beautiful garden setting, suitable for families and groups.
VND120000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Ha Long Bay Cruise

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam on June 8, 2025

7:00am

Travel from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

Depart early for Ha Long Bay by private car or shuttle, approximately 3.5 hours drive, to maximize your day at the bay.
VND700000 (transfer approx.), 3h30m

10:30am

Board Ha Long Bay Day Cruise

Embark on a beautiful day cruise exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site’s limestone karsts and emerald waters, including stops at caves and fishing villages.
USD70 per person, 6h

12:00pm

Lunch Onboard

Enjoy fresh seafood and Vietnamese dishes served on the cruise while sailing in stunning surroundings.
Included in cruise, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Hanoi

Travel back to Hanoi in the evening, comfortable to rest for the next day’s flight south.
Included in transfer, 3h30m

8:30pm

Light Dinner Near Hotel

Opt for a light dinner at The Hanoi Social Club near your hotel offering international and Vietnamese fusion dishes, open until 10pm.
VND120000, 1h
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Day 4: Historic Hue

Hue, Vietnam on June 9, 2025

7:00am

Flight from Hanoi to Hue

Take a short morning flight to Hue, the former imperial capital, to start exploring its rich history and culture.
VND1000000 approx., 1h20m

9:00am

Breakfast at Ancient Hue

Try Hue-style rice cakes and local specialties in this charming breakfast spot.
VND70000, 1h

10:30am

Visit Imperial City (Citadel)

Explore the vast walled city and royal palaces of the Nguyen dynasty, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and cultural treasure.
VND150000, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Hanh Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Hue cuisine with rich flavors, including Bun Bo Hue, the local spicy beef noodle soup.
VND120000, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Thien Mu Pagoda

Take a scenic boat ride on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most beautiful pagodas in Vietnam.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax along Perfume River

Enjoy a leisurely stroll or boat ride to soak in sunset views and tranquil atmosphere.
Optional boat ride VND100000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Les Jardins de La Carambole

Dine in colonial ambiance, savoring French-Vietnamese fusion dishes, perfect for groups and families.
VND200000, 1h30m
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Day 5: Historic Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam on June 10, 2025

8:00am

Travel from Hue to Hoi An by car

Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive across Hai Van Pass to quaint Hoi An, known for its well-preserved ancient town.
VND800000 approx., 3h

11:00am

Check-in and Lunch at Cargo Club

Relax with a Western and Vietnamese fusion meal in this riverside café, famous for cakes and ice creams.
VND150000, 1h

12:30pm

Explore Ancient Town

Wander Hoi An’s colorful streets, visit Japanese Covered Bridge, old houses, and local tailors.
Entry ticket VND120000, 3h

4:00pm

Hoi An Lantern Workshop

Enjoy a family-friendly workshop making traditional lanterns, a lovely cultural experience.
VND250000 per person, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner by the River at Mango Mango

Dine on creative Vietnamese dishes with picturesque river views, perfect for groups.
VND180000, 1h30m
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Day 6: Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on June 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hoi An Roastery

Start with robust Vietnamese coffee and pastries at this popular local spot.
VND70000, 1h

9:00am

Flight from Da Nang (near Hoi An) to Ho Chi Minh City

Take morning flight for approximately 1.5 hours to Vietnam’s largest city.
VND900000 approx., 1h30m

11:30am

Lunch at Pho Hoa

Enjoy classic Southern-style Pho at one of Ho Chi Minh City’s best-known pho restaurants.
VND70000, 1h

1:00pm

War Remnants Museum

Visit this sobering and educational museum showcasing Vietnam’s war history, open 7:30am to 6pm.
VND40000, 2h

3:30pm

Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office

Walk to iconic French colonial landmarks located close to each other, perfect for photo opportunities.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Deck Saigon

Dine along the Saigon River with a mix of international and Vietnamese cuisine in a stylish setting, ideal for groups.
VND300000, 1h30m
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Day 7: Cu Chi Tunnels & City Life

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on June 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at L'Usine Café

Enjoy a stylish breakfast with Western and Vietnamese options in a chic urban café.
VND120000, 1h

8:30am

Half-day Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

Explore the extensive underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War located about 1.5 hours from the city. Tours typically last 4-5 hours.
VND300000, 5h

2:00pm

Lunch at Pho 2000

Enjoy convenient lunch near Ben Thanh Market with tasty Pho and Vietnamese dishes.
VND70000, 1h

3:30pm

Shopping and exploring Ben Thanh Market

Experience vibrant market life for souvenirs, street food, and local crafts.
Free to enter, 2h

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Secret Garden

Enjoy a relaxing rooftop dinner featuring traditional Vietnamese cuisine, a lovely way to conclude your trip.
VND250000, 1h30m
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Day 8: Departure Day

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on June 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a convenient breakfast at your hotel before departure.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport

Leave for airport in time for your international flight back home.
Depends on hotel transfer option, 1h
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