Planning your travel to Vietnam and wanting to make the most of a week-long trip? In just seven days, you can experience the country’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse culture. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture lover, this 7-day Vietnam trip itinerary is designed to give you practical tips on how to explore Vietnam efficiently, ensuring you don’t miss the must-see highlights. Here’s a streamlined guide to help you get the most out of your week in Vietnam.
Day 1: Hanoi – The Capital’s Charm
Tip: Get your bearings with a local walking tour.
Start your travel to Vietnam at the country’s capital, Hanoi. Once you land, it’s best to settle in by exploring the city’s Old Quarter, where the narrow streets are packed with history, street food, and local shops. Skip the tourist traps by opting for a walking tour to learn about the city’s history while soaking up its energy.
What to do: Visit Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, and enjoy local favorites like pho at a street-side vendor. But don’t fill up just yet—make sure to hit a night market for some local bites.
Practical tip: Book a hotel in the Old Quarter for easy access to major attractions and lots of food options.
Day 2: Ha Long Bay Cruise – Nature at Its Best
Tip: Choose an overnight cruise to maximize your Ha Long Bay experience.
On day two of your travel to Vietnam, head to the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, known for its towering limestone islands and emerald waters. A day cruise will give you a glimpse, but an overnight stay on a cruise ship will let you enjoy the bay at a slower pace—plus, you’ll get to wake up to breathtaking views.
What to do: Explore the bay by kayak or visit some of the hidden caves. Most cruises offer onboard activities like cooking classes, tai chi, or even squid fishing.
Practical tip: Pack light for the cruise, and don’t forget sunscreen and a hat for the afternoon sun.
Day 3: Travel Back to Hanoi and Fly to Da Nang
Tip: Plan your travel time wisely to fit in some last-minute Hanoi sightseeing.
After a relaxing night on the bay, return to Hanoi and catch a flight to Da Nang. Depending on your flight time, you might be able to squeeze in a visit to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum before you leave Hanoi.
Practical tip: Flights from Hanoi to Da Nang are short (around 1.5 hours), so booking an afternoon or evening flight gives you more time to explore Hanoi.
Day 4: Explore Hoi An – A UNESCO World Heritage Gem
Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore Hoi An’s countryside.
After settling into Da Nang, travel to nearby Hoi An. Known for its lantern-lit streets and beautifully preserved ancient town, Hoi An is a traveler’s favorite on their travel to Vietnam. Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the outskirts, where you’ll find picturesque rice paddies and quaint villages.
What to do: Get clothes tailored in Hoi An’s famous tailoring shops or sign up for a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes.
Practical tip: Many shops in Hoi An offer express tailoring services. Order your custom clothes as soon as you arrive to pick them up before you leave.
Day 5: Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge – Da Nang’s Must-See
Tip: Start early to avoid the crowds at the Golden Bridge.
Head back to Da Nang to explore the famous Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills, a stunning attraction supported by two giant stone hands. The cable car ride to the top of Ba Na Hills is one of the longest in the world and offers stunning views.
What to do: Spend the rest of the day exploring the French Village, the alpine roller coaster, and the hilltop gardens.
Practical tip: Tickets to Ba Na Hills sell out fast, so book your entry in advance. Also, bring a light jacket—it can get chilly up there.
Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City – A Different Side of Vietnam
Tip: Take an evening food tour to discover the best of Ho Chi Minh City’s street food.
Next up, catch a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, a dynamic and fast-paced metropolis. Once you land, dive into the city’s vibrant atmosphere by visiting the War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, and Ben Thanh Market. Cap off your day with a food tour to sample dishes like banh mi and bun thit nuong.
Practical tip: Stay near District 1 for easy access to attractions and a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.
Day 7: Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta – A Scenic Finale For Your Travel to Vietnam
Tip: Combine both Cu Chi Tunnels and a Mekong Delta tour in one day.
End your Vietnam trip with a historical journey through the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. Afterward, embark on a scenic Mekong Delta tour, where you can enjoy a boat ride through narrow canals and visit local villages.
What to do: Learn about the ingenious survival tactics used in the tunnels, and experience rural life in the Mekong Delta by visiting a local coconut candy workshop or fruit plantation.
Practical tip: This is a full-day activity, so be sure to book a tour that combines both Cu Chi and the Mekong Delta for efficient travel.
This 7-day travel to Vietnam itinerary is designed to give you the best of what Vietnam has to offer—blending culture, nature, and history into one unforgettable week. Whether it’s your first time or you’re returning for another adventure, this travel guide ensures you make the most of your travel to Vietnam without feeling rushed. With a little planning, you’ll leave Vietnam with incredible memories and a deeper understanding of this beautiful country.
