8 day vietnam itinerary Vietnam is a country of stunning diversity, from the majestic mountains and rice terraces of the north to the tropical beaches and islands of the south, from the bustling cities and historical sites of the center to the serene waterways and villages of the Mekong Delta. With 8 days in Vietnam, you can experience the best of this amazing destination, and get a taste of its rich culture, cuisine, and history.
In this blog post, we will show you how to plan a perfect 8-day itinerary for Vietnam, covering the highlights of Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hue, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City. You will also find some tips on how to travel around Vietnam, where to stay, what to eat, and what to pack. 8 day vietnam itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi
Hanoi is the capital and cultural heart of Vietnam, a city that combines ancient charm with modern energy. It is also the gateway to the north of Vietnam, where you can explore some of the most scenic and authentic regions of the country. 8 day vietnam itinerary
Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in the city center. Depending on your flight time, you may have some time to relax or explore the city on your own.
Some of the attractions that you can see in Hanoi include:
- The Hoan Kiem Lake, which is a serene lake surrounded by trees and temples in the heart of the city. It is also home to the Ngoc Son Temple and the Turtle Tower, two iconic landmarks of Hanoi. 8 day vietnam itinerary
- The Old Quarter, which is a maze of narrow streets and alleys that date back to the 13th century. It is a lively area where you can find shops, cafes, restaurants, bars, and street vendors selling everything from souvenirs to snacks. 8 day vietnam itinerary
- The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, which is a complex of monuments dedicated to the founder and leader of modern Vietnam. It includes the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where his embalmed body is displayed; the Ho Chi Minh Museum, where his life and achievements are exhibited; and the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique wooden structure that symbolizes his vision for Vietnam. 8 day vietnam itinerary
- The Temple of Literature, which is a Confucian temple that was founded in 1070 as Vietnam’s first university. It is a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and a place of learning and culture. 8 day vietnam itinerary
Day 2: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features thousands of limestone islands and karsts rising from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. It is also a place of legend and mystery, where local myths and folklore add to its charm and allure.
To experience Ha Long Bay, you will join a cruise that will take you through its scenic landscapes and hidden gems. You will board your cruise ship at Tuan Chau Island after a 3-hour drive from Hanoi. You will then enjoy a welcome drink and lunch on board as you sail into Ha Long Bay. 8 day vietnam itinerary
Some of the activities that you can do on your cruise include:
- Kayaking or bamboo boating around some of the islands and caves, such as Luon Cave, Sung Sot Cave, or Ti Top Island.
- Swimming or sunbathing on some of the sandy beaches or on the sundeck of your cruise ship. 8 day vietnam itinerary
- Visiting some of the floating villages or pearl farms that dot Ha Long Bay, where you can learn about the local life and culture.
- Joining some of the onboard activities such as cooking classes, tai chi sessions, squid fishing, or karaoke. 8 day vietnam itinerary
You will spend the night on your cruise ship in Ha Long Bay, enjoying a delicious dinner and a stunning sunset over the bay. 8 day vietnam itinerary
Day 3: Ha Long Bay – Hanoi – Hue
You will wake up early to catch the sunrise over Ha Long Bay, a sight that you will never forget. You will then have breakfast on board before continuing your cruise around Ha Long Bay. You will visit some more islands and caves before heading back to Tuan Chau Island. 8 day vietnam itinerary
You will disembark from your cruise ship around noon and drive back to Hanoi. You will then catch a flight to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hue is a city that preserves its royal heritage and cultural legacy through its monuments, temples, and tombs. 8 day vietnam itinerary
Upon arrival in Hue, you will be transferred to your hotel in the city center. You will have the rest of the day free to relax or explore the city on your own.
Some of the attractions that you can see in Hue include:
- The Imperial Citadel, which is a walled complex that was the seat of power and residence of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. It contains many palaces, halls, gates, and gardens that showcase the splendor and sophistication of the royal court. 8 day vietnam itinerary
- The Thien Mu Pagoda, which is a seven-story tower that overlooks the Perfume River. It is the oldest and most revered pagoda in Hue, and a symbol of the city.
- The Tomb of Tu Duc, which is one of the most elaborate and beautiful tombs of the Nguyen emperors. It is a complex of pavilions, temples, lakes, and gardens that reflect the emperor’s philosophy and personality.
Day 4: Hue – Hoi An
Hoi An is a charming town on the central coast of Vietnam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves its historical and cultural identity through its architecture, crafts, and traditions. Hoi An was once a thriving port that traded with China, Japan, India, and Europe from the 15th to the 19th century. Today, it is a popular tourist destination that offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s past and present.
To get to Hoi An from Hue, you will drive along the scenic Hai Van Pass, which offers stunning views of the mountains and the sea. You will also stop at some points of interest along the way, such as:
- The Lang Co Beach, which is a long and sandy beach that stretches along a lagoon. It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the fresh air and scenery.
- The Marble Mountains, which are five hills made of marble and limestone that represent the five elements of nature. They are also home to many caves, pagodas, and statues that are sacred to Buddhism and Hinduism.
- The Cham Museum, which is a museum that displays a collection of artifacts and sculptures from the ancient Cham civilization that ruled central Vietnam from the 2nd to the 15th century. 8 day vietnam itinerary
Upon arrival in Hoi An, you will check into your hotel in the town center. You will then have some time to explore the town on your own or join a guided walking tour.
Some of the attractions that you can see in Hoi An include:
- The Old Town, which is a well-preserved area that features many historical buildings and landmarks. You can admire the fusion of Chinese, Japanese, French, and Vietnamese influences on the architecture and design of the town.
- The Japanese Covered Bridge, which is a wooden bridge that spans across a small canal. It was built by the Japanese community in the 16th century as a link between their quarter and the Chinese quarter. It also has a small temple dedicated to the god of weather.
- The Phuoc Kien Assembly Hall, which is a temple that was founded by the Chinese Fujian congregation in the 17th century. It honors Thien Hau, the goddess of the sea and protector of sailors. 8 day vietnam itinerary
- The Tan Ky House, which is an old merchant house that dates back to the 18th century. It is a typical example of a Hoi An house, with a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese elements. It also has many antiques and family heirlooms on display.
Day 5: Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest and most dynamic city in Vietnam. It is also the economic, cultural, and historical center of South Vietnam, where you can find everything from colonial buildings to skyscrapers, from street food to fine dining, from museums to nightlife. Ho Chi Minh City is a city that never sleeps, and there is always something new to discover.
You will leave Hoi An in the morning and catch a flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in District 1. You will then have some time to relax or explore the city on your own.
Some of the attractions that you can see in Ho Chi Minh City include:
- The War Remnants Museum, which displays exhibits and artifacts related to the Vietnam War and its aftermath. It is one of the most visited museums in Vietnam and one of the most sobering ones. 8 day vietnam itinerary
- The Reunification Palace, which was the former residence and office of the President of South Vietnam until 1975, when it was captured by North Vietnamese troops. It is now a museum that showcases the history and events of that period.
- The Notre Dame Cathedral, which is a stunning example of French Gothic architecture and a symbol of Catholicism in Vietnam. It was built in the late 19th century with materials imported from France. 8 day vietnam itinerary
Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City – Cu Chi Tunnels – Mekong Delta
On your sixth day in Vietnam, you will have a chance to visit two of the most fascinating and contrasting sites near Ho Chi Minh City: the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta.
The Cu Chi Tunnels are a network of underground tunnels that were used by the Viet Cong guerrillas during the Vietnam War. They served as hiding places, communication routes, supply routes, hospitals, and living quarters for the fighters. The tunnels are a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Vietnamese people in their struggle for independence. 8 day vietnam itinerary
You will join a half-day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels, where you will learn about the history and significance of the tunnels, watch a documentary film, and even crawl through some of the tunnels yourself. You will also see some of the traps and weapons that were used by the Viet Cong against their enemies.
After visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels, you will drive to the Mekong Delta, which is a vast region of rivers, canals, islands, and farms that covers the southern part of Vietnam. The Mekong Delta is also known as the “rice bowl” of Vietnam, as it produces most of the country’s rice and other agricultural products. 8 day vietnam itinerary
You will join a full-day tour to the Mekong Delta, where you will experience the local life and culture of this vibrant and colorful area. You will take a boat ride along the Mekong River, visit some of the floating markets and villages, sample some of the local fruits and specialties, and enjoy a traditional lunch at a local home.
You will return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening and have some free time to explore the city at night.
Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City – Phu Quoc Island
On your seventh day in Vietnam, you will fly to Phu Quoc Island, which is one of the most beautiful and pristine islands in Vietnam. Phu Quoc Island is located in the Gulf of Thailand, off the coast of South Vietnam. It is part of the Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve, which is recognized by UNESCO for its biodiversity and natural beauty. 8 day vietnam itinerary
Phu Quoc Island is an ideal destination for those who want to relax and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. The island has many white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, coral reefs, and tropical forests. It also has some historical and cultural attractions, such as a pepper farm, a fish sauce factory, a pearl farm, and a prison museum.
You will check into your hotel on Phu Quoc Island and have the rest of the day free to explore the island on your own or join an optional tour. You can swim or snorkel in the clear water, sunbathe on the beach, rent a motorbike or bicycle to discover the island’s hidden gems, or visit some of the local attractions. 8 day vietnam itinerary
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Day 8: Depart from Phu Quoc Island
On your eighth and final day in Vietnam, you will have some free time to enjoy Phu Quoc Island until your departure time. You can relax at your hotel or do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. 8 day vietnam itinerary
You will then be transferred to Phu Quoc International Airport for your flight back home or to your next destination. You will leave Vietnam with unforgettable memories and experiences of this amazing country.
