best vietnam travel itinerary Vietnam is a country that will captivate you with its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical richness. It is also a country that offers a lot of attractions and activities that can suit any taste, budget, and preference. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, culture, or food, you will find something to enjoy in Vietnam.
But with so much to see and do in Vietnam, how do you plan your trip? How do you make sure that you don’t miss any of the highlights and hidden gems of this amazing country? How do you balance your time and budget between the different regions and destinations?
That’s why we have created this blog post to help you plan your best Vietnam travel itinerary. We will show you how to spend 2 weeks in Vietnam, covering the most popular and interesting places in the country. We will also give you some tips on how to make the most of your trip to Vietnam.
Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City
Your best Vietnam travel itinerary starts in Ho Chi Minh City, the largest and most dynamic city in Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) is a city that combines the old and the new, the traditional and the modern, the east and the west. It is a city that offers a lot of attractions and activities for travelers, such as museums, markets, temples, pagodas, skyscrapers, parks, and nightlife.
After arriving at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to your hotel in the city center. Depending on your arrival time, you can spend the rest of the day exploring some of the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City, such as:
- The War Remnants Museum: A museum that displays the history and effects of the Vietnam War, especially from the perspective of the Vietnamese people. It contains exhibits such as weapons, vehicles, photographs, documents, and artifacts that show the atrocities and consequences of the war. best vietnam travel itinerary
- The Reunification Palace: A palace that was the former residence and office of the president of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. It was also the site of the end of the war, when a North Vietnamese tank crashed through its gates on April 30, 1975. It is now a museum that showcases the history and architecture of the palace. best vietnam travel itinerary
- The Notre Dame Cathedral: A cathedral that was built by the French colonists in the late 19th century. It is a prominent landmark of Ho Chi Minh City, with its neo-Romanesque style, red brick facade, and twin bell towers. It is also a place of worship for the Catholic community in the city. best vietnam travel itinerary
- The Central Post Office: A post office that was also built by the French colonists in the late 19th century. It is a beautiful example of French colonial architecture, with its arched windows, domed roof, and ornate interior. It is also a functional post office that offers various services, such as mailing, banking, and souvenir shopping. best vietnam travel itinerary
You can also enjoy some of the best street food in Ho Chi Minh City, such as banh mi (sandwiches), pho (noodle soup), or oc (snails).
Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta
On your second day in Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a day trip to two of the most popular and interesting destinations near the 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 guerrillas. They also played a vital role in the Tet Offensive of 1968, when the guerrillas launched surprise attacks on several cities and towns in South Vietnam. best vietnam travel itinerary
The Mekong Delta is a region in the southwest of Vietnam, where the Mekong River splits into several branches and flows into the sea. It is also known as the “rice bowl” of Vietnam, as it produces most of the country’s rice and other agricultural products. It is also home to various ethnic groups, such as the Khmer, the Chinese, and the Cham. best vietnam travel itinerary
You can book a tour with Hello Vietnam Travel to visit both the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta in one day. You will have a chance to:
- Explore some of the tunnels and learn about their history and functions best vietnam travel itinerary
- See some of the traps and weapons that the guerrillas used against the enemy
- Watch a documentary film about the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Vietnam War
- Enjoy a local lunch at a restaurant near the tunnels best vietnam travel itinerary
- Take a boat ride along the Mekong River and see the floating markets, villages, and islands
- Visit a coconut candy factory and a honey bee farm and taste some of their products best vietnam travel itinerary
- Listen to some traditional music and enjoy some fruits at a local orchard
- Ride a bicycle or a horse cart around the countryside and see the rice fields, fruit orchards, and canals best vietnam travel itinerary
You can book your tour online with ease and convenience. Hello Vietnam Travel will take care of everything for you, from the pick-up and drop-off service, to the entrance fees and taxes, to the guide and driver.
Day 3: Fly to Da Nang and Transfer to Hoi An
On your third day in Vietnam, you will leave Ho Chi Minh City and fly to Da Nang, the fourth largest city in Vietnam. Da Nang is a city that is known for its beautiful beaches, such as My Khe Beach, Non Nuoc Beach, and Son Tra Beach. It is also a city that offers various attractions and activities, such as museums, bridges, pagodas, mountains, and amusement parks.
However, you will not stay in Da Nang for long, as you will transfer to Hoi An, a charming town in the central coast of Vietnam. Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is famous for its well-preserved ancient architecture, lantern-filled streets, and delicious cuisine. It is also a great place to shop for souvenirs, such as silk, ceramics, paintings, and lanterns. best vietnam travel itinerary
After arriving at Da Nang International Airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to your hotel in Hoi An. Depending on your arrival time, you can spend the rest of the day exploring some of the highlights of Hoi An, such as:
- The Old Town: The historic center of Hoi An, where you can see the fusion of Chinese, Japanese, French, and Vietnamese influences in the architecture and culture. You can visit some of the landmarks, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation, the Tan Ky House, and the Quan Cong Temple.
- The Night Market: A market that opens every night from 6 pm to 11 pm on Nguyen Hoang Street. You can find a variety of goods, such as clothes, accessories, handicrafts, and lanterns. You can also enjoy some of the street food, such as banh bao (steamed buns), banh xeo (crispy pancakes), or cao lau (noodles with pork and herbs).
- The Lantern Festival: A festival that takes place on the 14th day of every lunar month, when the Old Town is lit up by thousands of colorful lanterns. You can join the locals and tourists in releasing paper lanterns into the Thu Bon River and making a wish. You can also watch some of the cultural performances, such as folk music, dance, and puppet shows.
You can also enjoy some of the best dishes in Hoi An, such as mi quang (noodles with meat and vegetables), com ga (chicken rice), or banh mi (sandwiches).
Day 4: Hoi An Cooking Class and Free Time
On your fourth day in Hoi An, you can join a Hoi An Cooking Class, one of the most popular and fun activities in the town. You will have a chance to learn how to cook some of the most famous dishes in Vietnam, such as pho (noodle soup), banh xeo (crispy pancakes), or cao lau (noodles with pork and herbs). best vietnam travel itinerary
You can book a cooking class with Hello Vietnam Travel, which offers a variety of classes that can suit your needs and preferences. You can choose from different types of classes, such as market tours, farm tours, or river cruises. You can also enjoy various activities during the class, such as picking fresh ingredients, learning about the spices and herbs, or tasting your creations. best vietnam travel itinerary
You can book your class online with ease and convenience. Hello Vietnam Travel will take care of everything for you, from the pick-up and drop-off service, to the recipes and aprons, to the certificates and souvenirs.
After the cooking class, you will have some free time to explore Hoi An on your own. You can do some of the following activities:
- Rent a bicycle and ride around the countryside and see the rice fields, fruit orchards, and canals
- Visit some of the nearby attractions, such as the My Son Sanctuary, a complex of Hindu temples that date back to the 4th century; or the Marble Mountains, a group of five limestone hills that contain caves, pagodas, and statues best vietnam travel itinerary
- Relax on one of the beaches near Hoi An, such as An Bang Beach, Cua Dai Beach, or Ha My Beach
- Shop for some souvenirs, such as silk, ceramics, paintings, and lanterns
- Enjoy some of the nightlife in Hoi An, such as bars, pubs, or live music venues
Day 5: Fly to Hanoi and Transfer to Halong Bay
On your fifth day in Vietnam, you will leave Hoi An and fly to Hanoi, the capital and second largest city in Vietnam. Hanoi is a city that is known for its rich history, culture, and charm. It is also a city that offers a lot of attractions and activities for travelers, such as museums, temples, lakes, parks, and markets. best vietnam travel itinerary
However, you will not stay in Hanoi for long, as you will transfer to Halong Bay, one of the most popular and iconic destinations in Vietnam. Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features thousands of limestone islands and islets rising from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. It is also home to various wildlife, such as monkeys, birds, and dolphins.
After arriving at Noi Bai International Airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to your hotel in Halong Bay. Depending on your arrival time, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing at your hotel or exploring some of the nearby attractions, such as:
- The Sun World Halong Park: A theme park that offers various entertainment options, such as roller coasters, water slides, cable cars, and Ferris wheels
- The Quang Ninh Museum: A museum that displays the history and culture of Quang Ninh province, where Halong Bay is located
- The Bai Tho Mountain: A mountain that offers a panoramic view of Halong Bay and the city best vietnam travel itinerary
You can also enjoy some of the seafood in Halong Bay, such as crabs, shrimps, oysters, or clams.
Day 6: Halong Bay Cruise
On your sixth day in Vietnam, you will join a Halong Bay Cruise, one of the most popular and memorable tours in Vietnam. A Halong Bay Cruise will allow you to explore the beauty and mystery of this natural wonder. You can choose from different types of cruises, such as luxury, budget, or overnight cruises. You can also enjoy various activities on board, such as kayaking, swimming, fishing, cooking classes, tai chi classes, or spa treatments. best vietnam travel itinerary
You can book a cruise with Hello Vietnam Travel, which offers a variety of cruises that can suit your needs and preferences. You can choose from different durations, routes, boats, and prices. You can also book your cruise online with ease and convenience. Hello Vietnam Travel will take care of everything for you, from the pick-up and drop-off service, to the meals and drinks, to the entrance fees and taxes. best vietnam travel itinerary
During the cruise, you will have a chance to:
- See some of the most famous and beautiful islands and caves in Halong Bay, such as Ti Top Island, Sung Sot Cave, Dau Go Cave, and Thien Cung Cave
- Visit some of the floating villages and fishing communities in Halong Bay, such as Cua Van Village, Vung Vieng Village, and Ba Hang Village
- Watch the sunrise and sunset over the bay and admire the changing colors of the sky and water
- Enjoy a romantic dinner on board or on a private beach
You will have an unforgettable and relaxing time in one of the most scenic places in the world.
Day 7: Return to Hanoi and City Tour
On your seventh day in Vietnam, you will return to Hanoi from Halong Bay. You will have a full day to explore some of the highlights of Hanoi, such as:
- The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A mausoleum that houses the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, the founding father and former president of Vietnam. It is also a symbol of the nation’s respect and admiration for him. best vietnam travel itinerary
- The Ho Chi Minh Museum: A museum that displays the life and achievements of Ho Chi Minh, as well as the history and development of Vietnam
- The One Pillar Pagoda: A pagoda that was built by Emperor Ly Thai Tong in 1049. It is a unique structure that stands on a single pillar in the middle of a lotus pond. It is also a symbol of purity and harmony. best vietnam travel itinerary
- The Temple of Literature: A temple that was built in 1070 as a tribute to Confucius and his disciples. It is also the site of the first university in Vietnam, where many scholars and mandarins were educated. It is also a symbol of culture and education. best vietnam travel itinerary
- The Hoan Kiem Lake: A lake that is located in the heart of Hanoi. It is also known as the Lake of the Returned Sword, as it is associated with a legend that tells how Emperor Le Loi returned a magic sword to a turtle god in the lake. It is also a symbol of peace and tranquility. best vietnam travel itinerary
- The Ngoc Son Temple: A temple that is located on an island in the Hoan Kiem Lake. It is dedicated to various deities, such as Tran Hung Dao, a national hero who defeated the Mongols in the 13th century; Quan Vu, a god of war; and La To, a patron saint of physicians. best vietnam travel itinerary
- The Old Quarter: The oldest and most lively area of Hanoi, where you can see the fusion of French colonial and traditional Vietnamese architecture and culture. You can visit some of the landmarks, such as the Dong Xuan Market, the Bach Ma Temple, and the O Quan Chuong Gate. You can also shop for some souvenirs, such as silk, lacquerware, embroidery, and paintings. best vietnam travel itinerary
You can also enjoy some of the best dishes in Hanoi, such as bun cha (grilled pork and noodle dish), cha ca (fried fish with herbs and noodles), or egg coffee (coffee with egg yolk and condensed milk).
Day 8: Hanoi Free Day
On your eighth day in Vietnam, you will have a free day to explore Hanoi on your own. You can do some of the following activities:
- Visit some of the museums in Hanoi, such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which displays the culture and diversity of the 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam; or the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, which displays the art and history of Vietnam best vietnam travel itinerary
- Visit some of the temples and pagodas in Hanoi, such as the Tran Quoc Pagoda, which is the oldest pagoda in Hanoi; or the Quan Thanh Temple, which is dedicated to Tran Vu, a god of the north best vietnam travel itinerary
- Visit some of the parks and gardens in Hanoi, such as the Ho Tay Lake (West Lake), which is the largest lake in Hanoi; or the Thong Nhat Park (Reunification Park), which is a popular place for recreation and relaxation
- Enjoy some of the entertainment options in Hanoi, such as watching a water puppet show, a traditional art form that dates back to the 11th century; or watching a performance at the Hanoi Opera House, a French colonial building that hosts various shows, such as opera, ballet, and musicals best vietnam travel itinerary
Day 9: Fly to Da Nang and Transfer to Hue
On your ninth day in Vietnam, you will leave Hanoi and fly to Da Nang, the fourth largest city in Vietnam. You will not stay in Da Nang for long, as you will transfer to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Hue is a city that is known for its history, culture, and architecture. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features the Complex of Hue Monuments, a collection of royal buildings and structures that date back to the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945). best vietnam travel itinerary
After arriving at Da Nang International Airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to your hotel in Hue. Depending on your arrival time, you can spend the rest of the day exploring some of the highlights of Hue, such as:
- The Citadel: The former seat of power and residence of the Nguyen emperors. It is a massive complex that consists of four main areas: the Imperial City, the Forbidden Purple City, the Inner City, and the Outer City. You can visit some of the landmarks, such as the Ngo Mon Gate, the Thai Hoa Palace, the Dien Tho Residence, and the Hien Lam Pavilion.
- The Royal Tombs: The resting places of the Nguyen emperors and their consorts. They are located along the banks of the Perfume River, and each one has a different style and design. You can visit some of the most famous ones, such as the Tomb of Minh Mang, the Tomb of Tu Duc, and the Tomb of Khai Dinh. best vietnam travel itinerary
- The Thien Mu Pagoda: A pagoda that was built in 1601 by Nguyen Hoang, the first Nguyen lord. It is a symbol of Hue and Vietnam, with its seven-story octagonal tower. It is also a place of worship and history, as it witnessed many events during the Nguyen Dynasty and the Vietnam War.
You can also enjoy some of the best dishes in Hue, such as banh khoai (crispy pancakes), bun bo hue (spicy beef noodle soup), or com hen (clam rice).
Day 10: Hue City Tour and Transfer to Hoi An
On your tenth day in Vietnam, you will have a full day to explore more of Hue.
You can book a city tour with Hello Vietnam Travel, which offers a variety of tours that can suit your needs and preferences. You can choose from different itineraries, guides, and transportation options. You can also book your tour online with ease and convenience. Hello Vietnam Travel will take care of everything for you, from the pick-up and drop-off service, to the entrance fees and taxes, to the guide and driver. best vietnam travel itinerary
During the city tour, you will have a chance to:
- Visit some of the attractions that you might have missed on the previous day, such as the Imperial Museum, the Dong Ba Market, or the Hue Museum of Royal Fine Arts
- Visit some of the lesser-known but equally interesting attractions in Hue, such as the Thanh Toan Bridge, a wooden bridge that was built by a local woman in 1776; or the Nam Giao Esplanade, a sacred site where the Nguyen emperors performed rituals to pray for peace and prosperity
- Visit some of the nearby attractions outside Hue, such as the Bach Ma National Park, a nature reserve that features various flora and fauna, waterfalls, lakes, and trails; or the Lang Co Beach, a beautiful beach that offers a panoramic view of the sea and the mountains best vietnam travel itinerary
After the city tour, you will transfer to Hoi An, a charming town in the central coast of Vietnam. You will stay overnight in Hoi An.
Day 11: Hoi An Free Day
On your eleventh day in Vietnam, you will have a free day to explore Hoi An on your own. You can do some of the following activities:
- Rent a bicycle and ride around the countryside and see the rice fields, fruit orchards, and canals
- Visit some of the nearby attractions, such as the My Son Sanctuary, a complex of Hindu temples that date back to the 4th century; or the Marble Mountains, a group of five limestone hills that contain caves, pagodas, and statues best vietnam travel itinerary
- Relax on one of the beaches near Hoi An, such as An Bang Beach, Cua Dai Beach, or Ha My Beach
- Shop for some souvenirs, such as silk, ceramics, paintings, and lanterns
- Enjoy some of the nightlife in Hoi An, such as bars, pubs, or live music venues
Day 12: Fly to Da Lat
On your twelfth day in Vietnam, you will leave Hoi An and fly to Da Lat, a city in the central highlands of Vietnam. Da Lat is a city that is known for its cool climate, scenic landscapes, and romantic atmosphere. It is also a city that offers various attractions and activities for travelers, such as waterfalls, lakes, gardens, pagodas, and markets.
After arriving at Lien Khuong Airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to your hotel in Da Lat. Depending on your arrival time, you can spend the rest of the day exploring some of the highlights of Da Lat, such as:
- The Xuan Huong Lake: A lake that is located in the center of Da Lat. It is a popular place for recreation and relaxation, as you can enjoy various activities, such as boating, cycling, or walking around the lake best vietnam travel itinerary
- The Dalat Flower Garden: A garden that displays a variety of flowers and plants, such as roses, orchids, hydrangeas, and cherry blossoms. It is also a place for events and festivals, such as the Dalat Flower Festival best vietnam travel itinerary
- The Crazy House: A house that was designed by Dang Viet Nga, a Vietnamese architect who was inspired by Gaudi and Dali. It is a bizarre and whimsical structure that features various shapes, colors, and themes. It is also a hotel that offers unique and cozy rooms for guests best vietnam travel itinerary
- The Dalat Night Market: A market that opens every night from 6 pm to 10 pm on Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street. You can find a variety of goods, such as clothes, accessories, handicrafts, and flowers. You can also enjoy some of the street food, such as banh trang nuong (grilled rice paper), banh can (mini pancakes), or soya milk. best vietnam travel itinerary
You can also enjoy some of the best dishes in Da Lat, such as banh uot long ga (steamed rice paper with chicken innards), banh mi xiu mai (sandwiches with meatballs), or artichoke tea.
Day 13: Da Lat City Tour
On your thirteenth day in Vietnam, you will have a full day to explore more of Da Lat. You can book a city tour with Hello Vietnam Travel, which offers a variety of tours that can suit your needs and preferences. You can choose from different itineraries, guides, and transportation options. You can also book your tour online with ease and convenience. Hello Vietnam Travel will take care of everything for you, from the pick-up and drop-off service, to the entrance fees and taxes, to the guide and driver.
During the city tour, you will have a chance to:
- Visit some of the attractions that you might have missed on the previous day, such as the Bao Dai Palace, the former residence of the last emperor of Vietnam; or the Lam Vien Square, a modern and spacious square that features various sculptures and fountains best vietnam travel itinerary
- Visit some of the lesser-known but equally interesting attractions in Da Lat, such as the Linh Phuoc Pagoda, a pagoda that is decorated with thousands of pieces of broken glass and pottery; or the Dalat Railway Station, a railway station that was built in 1938 and has a unique Art Deco style best vietnam travel itinerary
- Visit some of the nearby attractions outside Da Lat, such as the Datanla Waterfall, a waterfall that offers various activities, such as cable car rides, roller coasters, or abseiling; or the Truc Lam Monastery, a monastery that is located on a hill overlooking the Tuyen Lam Lake best vietnam travel itinerary
After the city tour, you will have some free time to explore Da Lat on your own. You can do some of the following activities:
- Rent a motorbike and ride around the countryside and see the coffee plantations, strawberry farms, and pine forests
- Enjoy some of the entertainment options in Da Lat, such as karaoke, bowling, or cinema
- Relax at one of the cafes or bars in Da Lat and enjoy the view and the atmosphere
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Day 14: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and Departure
On your fourteenth and last day in Vietnam, you will leave Da Lat and fly to Ho Chi Minh City. You will have some time to do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing before you head to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure flight. best vietnam travel itinerary
You have completed your best Vietnam travel itinerary, covering the most popular and interesting places in the country. You have experienced the beauty, diversity, and charm of Vietnam. You have also learned some tips on how to make the most of your trip to Vietnam.
We hope you enjoyed your trip and have a safe flight home. Thank you for choosing Hello Vietnam Travel and see you again soon. Goodbye and farewell.
