My week-long Vietnam itinerary started in the North (Hanoi) and ended in the South (Ho Chi Minh City/Saigon). The main cities covered were Hanoi, Halong Bay (Cruise), Ninh Binh, Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang (pass-through), and Ho Chi Minh City/Saigon. It was a fun, easy, and diverse itinerary which you will not regret following.
Vietnam in a Week | The Perfect Itinerary
Here are some tours I recommend based on my experience in Vietnam.
About Vietnam
Overall
Located in Southeast Asia, Vietnam traces its roots back to ancient kingdoms forged along the mighty Mekong River and has evolved through centuries of independence, colonial struggles, and eventual unification. It has a population of 100 million with Buddhism being the dominant religion. Agriculture, forestry, and fishing are primary occupations. Recently, tourism has experienced significant growth. Geographically, Vietnam stretches like a slender curve and boasts verdant mountains, sun-drenched beaches, and bustling metropolises. Overall, I thought, Vietnam had all the good parts of East Asia—great food, polite service, plenty of ancient culture and wow sights to devour—yet it had subtle differentiating touches of its own. Not to mention, cheap!
History
The Hồng Bàng Dynasty from 2879 BC is considered Vietnam’s first kingdom. This was followed by various other dynasties and periods of Chinese domination. Fast forward to the 19th century, French colonization stirred things up, leading to the First Indochina War (1946-1954). Ho Chi Minh, the communist leader, played a key role in paving the way for Vietnamese independence. Then came the Vietnam War (1955-1975), where the North, supported by the Soviet Union and China, fought against the US-backed South. This war lasted two decades and claimed over 3 million lives. In 1975, North Vietnamese forces captured Saigon, unifying the country under communist rule. Vietnam today operates as a Socialist Republic under a one-party system. Vietnam embarked on economic reforms in the late 1980s, transforming into one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia, and emerging as a leader in the region.
Best Time to Visit
November to April is the best time to visit Vietnam: when it has warm temperatures, little rain, and clear skies. However, this is also peak season, which means higher prices. Therefore, consider visiting in the shoulder months of October–November and April–May. Early in the year also marks important festivals such as Tet Nguyen (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) and the Hoi An Lantern Festival, while the Hue Festival is held in April every year. Avoid the wet season (May–October) when the weather is hotter and more humid, with frequent rain showers, especially in the central and southern regions.
Getting Around
The ride-hailing company Grab operates in most Vietnamese cities. Local taxis were also decent and did not fleece me 🙂 Motorbike taxis and Cyclos are commonly available at reasonable prices—no need to pre-book anything.
From Hanoi to Ninh Binh, I used a local bus (2 hours). Local buses are fine although it can get crowded and dusty. From Ninh Binh to Hue, I took an overnight train (12 hours). Look up trains here or here. SE1 etc. are the newer and better-maintained trains while SE19 are older. I took a motorcycle tour from Hue to Hoi An (Which takes 6-8 hours). I took a Jet Star Flight from Da Nang Airport (45 minutes by cab from Hoi An) to reach Ho Chi Minh City (The flight takes 1 hour 30min).
There are some cool transport options in Vietnam I haven’t found anywhere else.
Hanoi: La Mejor Hotel & Sky Bar
Ninh Binh: The Vancouver Hotel
Hoi An: Cozy Hoi An Boutique Villa
Ho Chi Minh City: The Hammock Hotel Ben Thanh
The Vietnam Itinerary
Hanoi (2 nights)
About
Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, has a population of 8 million and a history stretching back 1,000 years. It sits on the banks of the Red River in Northern Vietnam and is the country’s second-largest city after Ho Chi Minh City. It is a fun, crazy, chaotic city which is a mish-mash of the old and the new. I was glad to have started with the craziness of Hanoi and moved on to the much calmer Ho Chi Minh City in the end.
What to Do
Join Hanoi Kids for a 2-3 hour customisable walking tour led by local students, who aim to practice English conversation with participants. The two charming students who guided me shared many insights into local culture and norms. The tours are private, customisable, and free.
What is there to see in Hanoi?
Old Quarter
Hanoi Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets throbbing with energy and life. It dates back to the 11th century when it was a popular commercial hub: each street was dedicated to a specific trade, leading to its nickname “36 Streets”. Old Quarter’s architecture is a blend of traditional Vietnamese and French colonial styles. The places to visit here are (1) Dong Xuan Market: A large indoor market offering a variety of goods, from clothing and accessories to local produce. (2) Bach Ma Temple: One of the oldest temples in Hanoi, dedicated to a legendary white horse. (3) Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre: offering traditional Vietnamese water puppetry shows. (4) St. Joseph’s Cathedral: A stunning French colonial church that stands out amidst the narrow streets. (5) Hoan Kiem Lake, located close to the Old Quarter, means “Lake of the Returned Sword”, based on a popular legend.
Temple of Literature
Step back in time at this serene Confucian temple complex, founded in 1070. Wander through courtyards filled with ancient trees and stelae honouring past scholars, and soak in the tranquillity of this historical gem. In Vietnamese culture, literature and studies hold great significance. Thus, the Temple of Literature is not just a historical site but a symbol of the nation’s respect for education, scholarship, and literary achievements. It underscores the historical roots of the country’s commitment to education and the pursuit of knowledge. On the day I was visiting, I saw a gang of college girls celebrate their graduation day, all decked up in traditional áo dài finery, and I was floored by their enthusiasm and their dress. It made me get a áo dài dress for myself (which I have never worn since and only admired. Sigh.).
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a monumental structure that houses the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of Vietnam. The mausoleum was officially inaugurated on August 29, 1975, and covers approximately 3,200 square meters (34,444 square feet). It’s a popular attraction, drawing a considerable number of visitors each day. Should you visit? It’s a significant historical and cultural site for locals, and for those interested in Vietnamese history and local life, a visit to the mausoleum can be meaningful. Also, the area around is quite nice and well worth a stroll.
My Highlights
- Temple of Literature
- Weekend walks at the bustling Hoan Kiem district, brimming with interesting food stalls.
- Drinking fresh beer (Bia Hoi, only costs VND 5,000, 3% alcohol) and peanuts! on Ta Hien i.e. Beer Street.
- Sitting for hours at Beer Corner, which is centred around the intersection of Ta Hien and Luong Ngoc Quyen streets. Try Fat Cat, 1900 Le Théâtre, and Dinh Ngang there.
Food in Hanoi’s Beer Street is fab! So much to experience.
Where to Stay
Stay at the fantastically located and highly-rated La Mejor Hotel & Sky Bar. It’s centrally situated at Ta Hien Street (Beer Street), in the Old Quarter, and offers easy access to everything. Also, it’s lined with excellent Pho establishments.
Halong Bay (1 Night)
About
Awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1994, Halong Bay boasts over 1,900 limestone islands and islets sculpted by millions of years of erosion. These emerald-green peaks rise dramatically from the turquoise waters, creating a breathtaking seascape. One or two-day cruises are the best way to enjoy Halong Bay. Ha Long Bay is also one of the new seven natural wonders of the world. It is on the bucket list of many, as it was on mine.
How to Do It
A Halong Bay cruise typically costs upwards of USD 150, inclusive of pick-up and drop-off. The journey to the bay from your hotel in Hanoi will take about three hours, departing usually at 9 AM and reaching the port at noon. The cruise ends at around 11 AM the next day, and you will get back to your Hanoi hotel at 3 or 4 PM. Opting for a 1-night and 2-day cruise is usually sufficient, as a 2-night stay may become monotonous.
Notable cruise options include Paradise, Indochina, and Dragon Junk, known for their high quality and, consequently, higher costs. I had a great experience with the Huong Hai Sealife Cruise, which explored Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island, offered excellent food, visited fishing villages, and accommodated a smaller group. All rooms featured a nice little balcony. Additionally, I learned to prepare a traditional “Ca Thinh” roll, participated in liquor tasting, and practised group Tai Chi early in the morning. In the evening, the restaurant featured some fun performances, but do not expect artistic finesse 🙂
While various cruises offer similar experiences, it’s advisable to avoid cheaper options.
If you are seeking a wider array of cruise options, consider CruiseInHalongBay.com, a local agency that aggregates various overnight cruises, suitable to all budgets from budget to luxurious. This allows for a more comprehensive comparison of itineraries, amenities, and pricing, ensuring you find the perfect Ha Long Bay experience.
Afterwards, I did not go back to Hanoi as most others did, instead going to Ninh Binh using a taxi and public bus, taking about 10 minutes and 6 hours, respectively. This choice didn’t impact the cruise cost. In hindsight, returning to Hanoi before going to Ninh Binh, despite the slightly higher cost this entails, would have offered a more comfortable journey with air-conditioned bus travel for most of the route.
Never mind. I was now in Ninh Binh.
Ninh Binh (1 Night)
About
Located in North Vietnam, Ninh Binh offers a stunning mosaic of lush rice fields, dramatic limestone karsts, and winding rivers. The Tam Diep mountain range forms its western border while the Red River Delta stretches across its plains. The best way to explore Ninh Binh is by the traditional sampan (small, low-cost boat), gliding through the intricate maze of waterways between karsts and grottoes. You can also consider hiking the Tam Coc trails and visiting Hoa Lu’s ancient temples.
You can visit Ninh Binh on a day trip from Hanoi as well. The town itself is quite sleepy and there is nothing much to do in the evenings. I spent a large part of it hogging at Restaurant Trung Tuyết (so yummy and cheap. Be sure to order a small portion and ask to try their rice wine. Fantastic place) and Coffee Phong.
—Some easy ways to see Ninh Binh—
What to Do
Trang An
Located in Ninh Binh, Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning karst landscapes and cave systems. It is sometimes known as ‘Halong Bay on Land’. I had a decision to make between going to either Trang An or Tam Coc, just a few minutes apart. Trang An seemed less crowded, and the scenery it promised was more diverse. While both Trang An and Tam Coc boat tours navigate through stunning karst mountains, Tam Coc takes you through rice fields and follows a single route of three caves. On the other hand, Trang An offers a mix of jungle and temples amid the mountains and three different routes to choose from. A Trang An boat ride costs 200,000 VND per person, but the boat accommodates four people, so you might end up sharing it with others. The boat ride is most fascinating because local women row it. They are mighty strong! Try rowing one yourself for a few minutes. I simply pretended.
Hoa Lu
Hoa Lu was the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries during the Dinh and Le dynasties. The historic site includes temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le kings, showcasing the rich cultural and historical heritage of Vietnam. I was not so impressed.
Bich Dong Pagoda
Situated near Tam Coc in Ninh Binh, Bich Dong is a series of three pagodas built into the mountainside. The pagodas are known for their architectural and natural beauty and offer good views of the countryside. Again, I was not so impressed.
Mua Caves
Mua Caves, or Hang Mua, is known for its panoramic views of Tam Coc and Ninh Binh’s karst landscape. To reach the viewpoint, one needs to climb 500 steps that pass through caves and breathtaking scenery. I did this in the afternoon and it was searingly hot. It takes 15-20 minutes to climb. Despite the hot trek up, it was worth it. Stay for sunset.
Where to Stay
At the wonderful Vancouver Hotel on Lane 75, Luong van Tuy Street. Our hotel provided us with a full-day car which cost USD 38 and took us to the four places on the list: Trang An, Hoa Lu, Bich Dong Pagoda, and Mua Caves.
Hue (1 night)
About
Hue is located in Central Vietnam, on the banks of the Huong River (Perfume River), 700 km south of Hanoi, and 1100 km north of Ho Chi Minh City. It has a population of around 480k. Hue is home to the “Complex of Hue Monuments”, which boasts the Forbidden Purple City, the Imperial City, other tombs and pagodas, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hue is also home to Vietnam’s oldest university (founded in 1896).
What to Do
There was not much to do in the town. However, Hue offered a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the trip. Hue has a few good pubs and cafes. Take a spa or massage. I got an áo dài stitched—plenty of tailors around.
Some activities you could do in Hue are:
- Cruise over the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda. Hire a local boat at Toà Khâm boat wharf for approximately USD 15-20, which you can bargain down. The Pagoda is a nice visit. Top it up with a meal at Lien Hoa, a nice Vegan restaurant inside the Pagoda.
- Ask the boatman to drop you at Hue Citadel on your way back. The Hue Citadel is the main star of the whole show of the Hue Monuments Complex. It’s a fortified city within a city—a symbol of the Nguyen Dynasty flexing its muscles by creating a mini-universe within its walls. Inside, you’ve also got the Forbidden Purple City and the Imperial City. Now, the Citadel is alright, not mind-blowing. I checked it out at night, and it looked good—well-lit, but packed with locals who get in for free. More on the Citadel fee and timings.
- There are also a few tombs as part of the Hue Monuments Complex that can be visited but it entails a half-day itinerary away from the town.
The must-do activity in Hue is as below
Lefamilyriders.com. Hop on an unforgettable bike adventure from Hue to Hoi An, cruising through picturesque villages, waterways, lagoons, and breathtaking views. Pillion rides are an option too. The cost ranges from USD 50-70 per person based on arrangement. The journey kicks off from Hue at 8:30 AM, and by around 6 PM, you’ll roll into Hoi An, making a brief pitstop in Da Nang. The stop at Da Nang includes a visit to the Marble Mountains. There is also a sumptuous lunchbreak at a seafood restaurant on the way. It was the best experience of my trip.
–There are other ways to see the Marble Mountains, well worth a longer visit–
Where to Stay
At the centrally located and inexpensive Hue Serene Palace Hotel at 42, Nguyen Cong Tru Street, Hue.
Hoi An (1 night)
About
Hoi An, in Central Vietnam, is home to about 120,000 people. Its history started in the 2nd century CE as a trading port established by the Champa people along the Thu Bon River. From the 15th to 19th centuries, it boomed as a key international trade port for silk and ceramics. The Old Town, with ancient wooden structures, temples, and pagodas, is like a living museum, displaying a mix of architectural styles. Strolling through its narrow streets feels like a journey back in time.
What to Do
In Hoi An
Hoi An is a charming gem of a town, often dubbed the Venice of Vietnam, as both share a canal-based transport system. However, Hoi An is smaller and attracts fewer tourists, providing a simpler, more manageable experience. Walking in Hoi An’s Old Town unveils captivating scenes: glimmering night markets, boats gently swaying on the canals, tiny restaurants serving magnificent food, exquisite local stores in tiny nooks, and all amidst colourful lanterns floating gently overhead. It was a truly magical place, the very epitome of ‘quaint’. I did not want to leave!
The year I visited Hoi An, there existed an Old Town pass that allowed tourists to visit up to 5 places of interest in the town. It cost me only 120,000 VND (5 USD) per person. It was valid for 24 hours but I think could be used beyond. I used it to see the Japanese Bridge, the Fujian and Chinese Assembly Halls, the Museum of Sa Huynh Culture, and the Tan Ky Ancient House. You could buy more tickets if you wished to visit more than 5 of the 22 listed attractions unless you get distracted amidst the many gorgeous art galleries, as I did.
You can pack in a lot in your day at Hoi An, and it won’t be enough. I woke up early to see its Cental Market open (8 AM to 7 PM), which was quite an experience. At night, I tried several of its wonderful restaurants: Nữ Eatery for Vietnamese/Fusion, Son Hoi An Restaurant (ask for their special menu), and Quán Dâu Bắc. The town also has some excellent places to shop. Kim Only Tailor Fashion does excellent work and is good value. You can also swing by Lac Viet Jewellery opposite. For leather Bags/Jackets/Shoes, try Hieu Trung Leather Shop, across the Cam Nam Bridge.
Ba Na Hills
A recent addition and noteworthy attraction that wasn’t there when I visited is the Golden Bridge, featuring a pair of giant hands lifting the ribbon-like bridge above Vietnam’s Trường Sơn Mountains. Positioned over 1,400m above sea level, the bridge has eight spans and stretches 150m in length. Ba Na Hills, situated 70 km from Central Hoi An, requires a 2-hour car journey to reach, also accessible from Da Nang at approximately the same time. The cab-rental service Grab goes as do many group tours. The site is open from 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM.
Where to Stay
At the aesthetic and cute Cozy Hoi An Boutique Villa at 108/2 Dao Duy.
Ho Chi Minh City (2 nights)
About
Saigon, now officially known as Ho Chi Minh City, sits on the banks of the Dong Nai River in Southern Vietnam. It has a population of 9 million and is the country’s most populous city. The area’s early history traces back to the Champa Kingdom which grew to be originally a fishing village and evolved into a thriving trade centre due to its strategic location in the 17th-18th Centuries. In the 19th century, French forces captured Saigon, establishing a colonial foothold that would transform the city. French architecture is evident in several landmarks in the city such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and Saigon Opera House. Saigon became a focal point during the Indochina Wars and the Vietnam War. Following the country’s unification in 1975, the city was renamed Ho Chi Minh City, but the name “Saigon” remains widely used due to its deep historical significance.
What to Do
A Walking Tour
All the major city sights in Ho Chi Minh City are next to each other and can be easily covered by walking. They are located in District 1, which is characterized by a mix of French colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers. The district houses iconic landmarks such as the War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, and the Reunification Palace. After covering them, you can move to other spots like the Ben Thanh Market, stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, and discover the historic architecture of Dong Khoi Street.
Day Trips
Popular day trips from Ho Chi Minh City take you to the Cu Chi Tunnel or Mekong Delta.
The Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive underground network built by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. These tunnels served as hiding spots, communication routes, and living quarters for guerrilla fighters. A visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels is an opportunity to delve into Vietnam’s history, appreciate its resilience, and gain an understanding of the wartime experiences of its people.
The Mekong Delta is the lifeblood of Vietnam and Cambodia. Known as the “Rice Bowl” for its vast rice paddies and fruit orchards, it plays a vital role in the country’s economy, providing a significant portion of Vietnam’s agricultural output. A Mekong Delta cruise offers a glimpse into traditional Vietnam. Take the cruise to experience vibrant floating markets, see traditional houses on stilts, and enjoy the peaceful rural scenery with rice paddies, orchards, and coconut groves. Lastly, end the day with a beautiful sunset. If feeling rich, use the speedboat option to avoid crowds.
Shopping, Sights, and Nightlife
In the evening, District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City comes alive with rooftop bars, bustling street food markets, and entertainment venues along Bui Vien Street. Bui Vien Street, made up of three key streets—Bui Vien, De Tham, and Pham Ngu Lao, is often called the “Backpacker District” by locals. I thought that the nightlife focused on Pham Ngu Lao was fantastic. It’s a preferred spot for budget travellers due to its affordable accommodations. Although some might perceive the atmosphere as decadent, I found it lively and thoroughly enjoyed my time, especially at “Republic Club” (Alas, now shut.)
Check out Nguyen Hue walking street for shops and eateries. For the best views, head to ‘Chill Sky Bar‘ or sip cocktails at Saigon Sky Deck in Bitexco Financial Tower.
I also had a blast at the Artinus 3D museum, which offered plenty of amusing photo opportunities.
Where to Stay
Nestled in the heart of District 1, The Hammock Hotel Ben Thanh puts you within steps of Ho Chi Minh City’s pulse. Explore iconic landmarks like Ben Thanh Market and Reunification Palace, or get lost in the bustling nightlife and shopping scene, all just a stone’s throw away.
Other Tips
- The airports offered one of the more favourable exchange rates I came across. It’s worth noting that prices are quoted in both USD and VND in Vietnam but there is a markup when paying in USD. Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid paying in USD.
- Take care of your belongings at all times. Purse snatching is rampant and it happened to my friend
- Take off the last three 0’s when counting money 🙂
- Join locals for a bong session or enjoy Bia Hoi with them. Find small blue and red stools, sit down, and engage in a casual chat with the locals
- There are plenty of super cheap laundry options everywhere
- Bargain everywhere
- Tips are not mandatory
- Explore options like the Sapa Valley trek, North East loop, or Phong Na caves to extend your itinerary by 2-3 days. Additionally, consider travelling to Cambodia via the Mekong Delta or Laos. If heading from North to South, check out the Reunification Express route. You can find information on baolau.vn or the Vietnamese railways site.
Enjoy! It is an awesome country.
Other East Asia itineraries: Cambodia, Hong Kong, and South Korea,
- First, I go to TripAdvisor and check out top things to do, top places, and experiences. I use this to make a rough itinerary.
- From TripAdvisor I often go to Viator to book day tours. I love their user friendly platform and flexible cancellation policies. Compare their offers with GetYourGuide, which is great too.
- I book my accommodations in Booking because of their flexibility and that the bookings are easily cancellable. The mobile app is great and the genius discounts are on point.
- I recommend getting the Priority Pass. It gives you access to airport lounges and has helped me through many long waits. It’s definitely well worth the money.
- And I am literally always on Skyscanner. I get to see the best airfares, and the airline / third party providers offering them. Try the “From: origin city” to “To: Everywhere” option to ignite your imagination on where to travel to next.
Hey, this itinerary sounds great, thanks for posting. Would it be easy enough to do the same route the opposite way around, starting in Saigon and finishing in Hanoi? We plan on going to Chiang Mai after Vietnam so would make more sense for us. Thanks 🙂
Hi Luke! Yes of course you can do it reverse. I did it this particular way simply because the flights were convenient. But my friends have done it the other way round too.
Hey Smita, would this itinerary get too tiring? Also how did you commute city to city?
Hi Sneha – From Hanoi to Ninh Binh, I used a local bus (2 hours). Local buses are fine although it can get crowded and dusty. From Ninh Binh to Hue, I took an overnight train (12 hours). Look up trains here or here. SE1 etc. are the newer and better-maintained trains while SE19 are older. I took a motorcycle tour from Hue to Hoi An (Which takes 6-8 hours). I took a Jet Star Flight from Da Nang Airport (45 minutes by cab from Hoi An) to reach Ho Chi Minh City (1 hour 30min).
Hey! A really great post. I’m looking to do North-South over 2-3 weeks! Unrelated to the route, if you can recall, what were the vegetarian options like? I want to experience as much of Vietnam as possible, and that includes the street food!!
Thanks!
Hi Jem, I cannot authoritatively comment on the vegetarian food as I am not one myself. Although I think it depends on the city as well. Hanoi did not have many vegetarian street food options, while Saigon did. However, in slightly larger eateries in both cities, there were many vegetarian options. Banh mi chay and Po Chay are easily available and fully vegetarian. Worst case, have rice cakes and their delicious fresh salads. Have fun!
Hey there! Nice write up! Thanks.
What was your mode of transport between the main cities you covered? Travel duration?
While It was easy for for me to plan the city itenary, bit confused on how to travel…. Thanks!
Hi Prabul, Thanks for reading. I have provided the details under the section `Getting Around’.
From Hanoi to Ninh Binh, I used a local bus (2 hours). Local buses are fine although it can get crowded and dusty. From Ninh Binh to Hue, I took an overnight train (12 hours). I took a motorcycle tour from Hue to Hoi An (Which takes 6-8 hours). I took a Jet Star Flight from Da Nang Airport (45 minutes by cab from Hoi An) to reach Ho Chi Minh City (The flight takes 1 hour 30 min).
Hi Smitha, Thanks for the itinerary, Can you please tell me how much did this trip cost in total (including everything)? Thanks!
Hi Alok. I do not exactly recall, but it was less than a lakh, including airfare. It was also some years ago, so costs have obviously risen since. I’m quite thrifty when I travel and minimise costs where I can. I think the Ha long Bay Cruise was the most expensive activity in my itinerary.