A whirlwind of wonders awaits in Vietnam, even with just five days itinerary. We invite you to awaken your senses with a journey that blends vibrant city life, tranquil natural beauty, and the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture. Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, savour mouth-watering cuisine, and immerse yourself in the heart of this captivating destination, all meticulously planned by Designer Journeys.
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Planning Your 5-Day Vietnam Adventure
With just 5 days to explore Vietnam, you’ll need to make some strategic choices. Vietnam stretches over 1,650 kilometres from north to south, with distinct regions offering unique experiences:
- Northern Vietnam: Home to Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and mountainous regions with terraced rice fields
- Central Vietnam: Features ancient imperial cities like Hue and charming towns like Hoi An
- Southern Vietnam: Includes Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and Cu Chi Tunnels
Incense stick production in Vietnam.
Given the limited time, this itinerary focuses on two major regions to minimize travel time and maximize experiences. We’ll explore the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City in the south, then fly to Hanoi to experience the cultural richness of northern Vietnam, including the breathtaking Ha Long Bay.
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Before diving into the day-by-day itinerary, it’s worth understanding what makes Vietnam such a compelling destination. The country’s complex history has shaped its unique cultural identity, blending Chinese, French, and indigenous influences. From ancient temples to colonial architecture, from war memorials to modern skyscrapers, Vietnam’s built environment tells the story of its resilient people.
Salt fields in Hòn Khói, Vietnam.
The natural environment is equally diverse. Vietnam’s geography encompasses everything from the lush landscapes of the Mekong Delta in the south to the karst formations of Ha Long Bay in the north. This geographical diversity has fostered distinct regional cultures, cuisines, and traditions, making a journey through Vietnam feel like visiting several countries in one.
Despite the rapid pace of development in major cities, traditional ways of life persist. In floating markets, rural villages, and ancient towns, you can witness centuries-old practices continuing alongside modern innovations. This juxtaposition of old and new is part of what makes travelling through Vietnam so fascinating.
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arriving in Ho Chi Minh City – History and Urban Energy
Your Vietnamese adventure begins in the ancient capital of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the country’s largest metropolis and economic powerhouse. This bustling city perfectly blends Vietnam’s rich history with modern development.
Morning: City Highlights Tour
After checking into your hotel and freshening up, begin the boat trip with a tour of the city centre’s iconic landmarks:
- Reunification Palace: This time capsule of 1960s architecture served as South Vietnam’s presidential residence until 1975. The building stands largely unchanged since North Vietnamese tanks crashed through its gates, marking the end of the Vietnam War.
- Notre Dame Cathedral: Built between 1863 and 1880 by French colonists, this neo-Romanesque cathedral features distinctive red brick façades imported from Marseille. The peaceful square surrounding it provides a welcome respite from the city’s frenetic energy.
- Central Post Office: Located opposite the cathedral, this magnificent French colonial structure was designed by Gustave Eiffel. The cavernous interior, with its vaulted ceiling and intricate details, makes this working post office a photographer’s delight.
Saigon Central Post Office – Ancient Post Office Ho Chi Minh City.
Local Tip: Arrive at these sites before 9:00 am to avoid the crowds and the midday heat. Consider hiring a local guide who can provide insights into the city’s very rich culture and history that you won’t find in guidebooks.
Afternoon: War Remnants Museum
Dedicate your afternoon to the War Remnants Museum, one of Vietnam’s most visited museums. While the exhibits present a perspective that some might find one-sided, they provide powerful insight into the devastating impact of the Vietnam War (known locally as the American War).
War Remnants Museum | Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
The outdoor exhibition includes American military equipment, while indoor galleries display haunting photographs documenting wartime atrocities and the lasting effects of Agent Orange. This sobering experience helps contextualise much of modern Vietnam’s development and perspective.
Practical Tip: The museum can be emotionally intense, so plan a short break afterwards before continuing with your evening activities. Photography is permitted, but be respectful when capturing these sensitive exhibits.
Evening: Street Food Adventure in District 1
As evening falls, immerse yourself in Vietnam’s renowned culinary scene with a street food tour through District 1:
- Begin at Ben Thanh Market or its surrounding streets, where food stalls offer local specialities like bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich), gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls), and bún thịt nướng (grilled pork with noodles).
- Wander through the bustling streets near Bui Vien, sampling various street foods and observing local life.
- End your evening with Vietnamese coffee at a rooftop café overlooking the illuminated cityscape, perhaps trying cà phê trứng (egg coffee) for a unique sweet treat.
Bui Vien Street: Nightlife Heaven for the Youth & Backpackers in Saigon.
Foodie Tip: For the most authentic experience, look for stalls where locals are eating. Carry hand sanitiser and small denominations of Vietnamese dong for easy payment. Consider joining an organised street food tour if you’re apprehensive about navigating the options independently.
Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels and More of Ho Chi Minh City
Morning: Cu Chi Tunnels Excursion
Rise early for a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 70 kilometres northwest of the city. This vast network of underground tunnels served as hiding spots, supply routes, hospitals, and living quarters for Viet Cong soldiers during the war.
Cu Chi Tunnels Tour.
A guided Vietnam city tour that allows you to:
- Learn about the ingenious, if rudimentary, booby traps designed by the guerrilla fighters
- Crawl through a short section of the tunnels (widened for tourists but still claustrophobically tight)
- Gain perspective on the resilience and resourcefulness that characterised the Vietnamese resistance
The Cu Chi experience provides invaluable insight into the challenges faced during the conflict and the determination that shaped Vietnam’s national identity.
Visitor Advice: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. The tunnels can be hot and confined, so skip this activity if you’re claustrophobic. Consider booking a tour that visits early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and larger tour groups.
Afternoon: Cultural Exploration
Return to Ho Chi Minh City for an afternoon of cultural immersion:
- Jade Emperor Pagoda: This atmospheric Taoist temple, built in 1909, features intricate woodcarvings, elaborate tile work, and hauntingly beautiful statues of divinities and grotesque heroes.
- Bitexco Financial Tower: For a different perspective, ascend to the Saigon Skydeck on the 49th floor of this iconic skyscraper. The panoramic views showcase the remarkable contrast between historic colonial buildings and modern high-rises, reflecting Vietnam’s rapid development.
Bitexco Financial Tower, Ho Chi Minh City.
Photography Tip: Visit the Skydeck close to sunset for dramatic lighting over the city and the chance to capture both daytime and nighttime views.
Evening: Dinner Cruise on the Saigon River
Complete your Ho Chi Minh City experience with a dinner cruise along the Saigon River. As you glide past the illuminated skyline, enjoy a meal of Vietnamese specialities while traditional music provides a serene soundtrack. This peaceful vantage point offers a final opportunity to appreciate the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity before heading north tomorrow.
Sunset city tour on Saigon River.
Booking Advice: Reserve your cruise in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Choose a smaller boat for a more intimate experience, and confirm whether transfers to and from your hotel are included.
Day 3: Fly to Hanoi – Exploring Vietnam’s Capital
Morning: Transit to Northern Vietnam
Take an early morning flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi (approximately 2 hours). This domestic flight maximises your limited time by avoiding the 2-day train journey between these cities.
Upon arrival, check into your accommodation in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where narrow streets named after the goods traditionally sold there create a labyrinthine but fascinating neighbourhood to explore.
Hanoi cityscape, Vietnam.
Travel Tip: Book your domestic flight well in advance to secure the best rates. Consider using Vietnam Airlines or Bamboo Airways for better reliability and fewer delays compared to budget carriers.
Afternoon: Hanoi’s Historic Heart
After settling in, begin exploring Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage:
- Hoan Kiem Lake: This peaceful oasis in the city centre features the picturesque Ngoc Son Temple on a small island, accessible via the striking red Huc Bridge. According to legend, Emperor Le Loi returned a magical sword to a golden turtle in this lake after defeating Chinese invaders in the 15th century.
- Old Quarter Walking Tour: Wander through the 36 streets of the Old Quarter, each historically dedicated to specific trades. Today, you’ll find a captivating mix of ancient architecture, bustling commerce, impromptu food stalls, and daily Vietnamese life unfolding before you. Don’t miss Hang Ma Street (decorated with colourful paper products) and Hang Bac (silversmith street).
- West Lake: If time permits, take a short taxi ride to West Lake (Ho Tay), Hanoi’s largest body of water. The area provides a pleasant escape from the city centre and is home to the sixth-century Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s oldest Buddhist temples.
- Temple of Literature: Visit Vietnam’s first national university, established in 1070, to educate Vietnam’s Mandarin class. This well-preserved complex honours Confucius and scholars through the ages. Don’t miss the stone stelae mounted on tortoises, recording the names of successful doctoral candidates from 1442 to 1779.
Bach Ma temple, Hanoi.
Local Experience Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore Hanoi like a local. The flat terrain makes cycling relatively easy, though you’ll need to become accustomed to the seemingly chaotic traffic patterns.
Evening: Water Puppet Show and Old Quarter Night Market
- Traditional Water Puppet Show: Experience this uniquely Vietnamese art form at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Dating back to the 11th century in the rice paddies of the Red River Delta, these captivating performances depict Vietnamese folklore and rural life with wooden puppets dancing on water.
- Night Market: On weekend evenings (Friday to Sunday), Hang Dao Street transforms into a lively pedestrian night market. Even on weekdays, the Old Quarter comes alive after dark with street food vendors, makeshift bars setting out tiny plastic stools, and shops staying open late. Join locals for bia hơi (fresh beer) at a corner establishment, then hunt for dinner at bustling food stalls offering local specialities like bún chả (grilled pork with noodles) and phở (beef noodle soup).
Water puppets in a show at Thang Long Theatre, Hanoi.
Cultural Tip: Book your water puppet tickets at least one day in advance for the best seats. Performances typically last about 50 minutes and run several times throughout the day.
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Day 4: Ha Long Bay Cruise – UNESCO World Heritage Wonder
No trip to northern Vietnam would be complete without experiencing the otherworldly beauty of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring thousands of limestone karsts rising dramatically from emerald waters.
Morning: Journey to Ha Long Bay
Depart early from Hanoi for the 3.5-hour drive to Ha Long Bay. Most Halong Bay cruises begin around midday, serving lunch as you sail into this breathtaking seascape. While overnight cruises offer the most comprehensive experience, a day cruise can still provide the essence of this natural wonder within your tight schedule.
Sunset, Halong bay, Vietnam.
Cruise Selection Tip: Even for a day trip, research your cruise options carefully. Avoid the absolute cheapest options, which tend to be overcrowded and cut corners on experiences. Mid-range cruises offer better food, smaller groups, and more attentive guides.
Afternoon: Exploring the Bay’s Natural Beauty
Your cruise will likely include several activities:
- Kayaking: Paddle through hidden lagoons and around towering karsts for an intimate experience of the bay’s beauty.
- Cave Exploration: Visit massive limestone caves like Sung Sot (Surprise Cave) or Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace Cave), featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by coloured lights.
- Swimming: Weather permitting, cool off with a dip in the Gulf of Tonkin’s waters at a sheltered beach.
- Seafood Feast: Enjoy fresh seafood prepared on board as you drift past the limestone formations.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture the bay’s lush landscapes from various vantage points as you cruise through different areas.
Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay, Vietnam.
Photography Tip: Use a polarising filter on your camera if possible to cut through water reflections and enhance the emerald colour of the bay. Keep your camera protected from water spray during kayaking.
Evening: Sunset and Return to Hanoi
As the sun begins to set over the karst landscape, creating a magical golden glow across the bay, your day cruise will make its way back to port. The drive back to Hanoi takes you through the changing landscapes of northern Vietnam, arriving in the capital by late evening.
Ha Long Bay sunset cruise.
Extended Experience Option: For those who can adjust their itinerary slightly, an overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay (requiring 2 days/1 night) offers the extraordinary experience of dawn and dusk in this mystical setting, with additional activities like tai chi on deck at sunrise and evening squid fishing.
Accommodation Tip: If you’re returning to Hanoi late, consider booking a hotel near the Old Quarter for easy access to late-night dining options.
Day 5: Hanoi’s Cultural Treasures and Departure
Morning: Ho Chi Minh Complex and Imperial Heritage
Begin your final day exploring Hanoi’s historical and political heart:
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Pay respects to Vietnam’s revolutionary leader, whose embalmed body lies in state in this massive marble edifice (closed Mondays and Fridays, and annually October-November for preservation work). The visit requires modest dress and solemn behaviour.
- Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House: See the humble dwelling where Uncle Ho lived intermittently from 1958 to 1969, preferring its simplicity to the grand Presidential Palace nearby.
- One Pillar Pagoda: Originally built in 1049, this unique wooden structure rising from a single stone pillar symbolises a lotus flower growing from the water, representing purity.
- Ho Chi Minh Complex: Explore the broader area, including the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh Museum, which documents the leader’s life and Vietnam’s struggle for independence.
Turtle Tower on Hoàn Kiếm Lake, Hanoi.
Visitor Tip: Arrive early (around 7:30 am) to avoid queues at the mausoleum. Bags, cameras, and phones must be stored before entering. Dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees.
Afternoon: Culinary Exploration and Last-Minute Shopping
For your final afternoon in Vietnam:
- Hands-on Cooking Class: Book a half-day cooking course to learn the secrets behind Vietnam’s world-renowned cuisine. Most classes begin with a market tour to select fresh ingredients, followed by the preparation of dishes like spring rolls, green papaya salad, and pho. This provides a delicious meal and lasting skills to recreate Vietnamese flavours at home.
- Bat Trang Pottery Village: If time permits, make a quick trip to this 700-year-old craft village on Hanoi’s outskirts, where you can watch artisans at work and purchase authentic ceramics directly from workshops.
- Souvenir Shopping: Return to the Old Quarter for last-minute purchases of Vietnamese coffee, conical hats, lacquerware, or tailored clothing. Dong Xuan Market offers a vast array of goods, though bargaining is expected.
Bat Trang pottery from Vietnam.
Shopping Tip: For authentic lacquerware, look for items with multiple layers and a deep, natural shine rather than painted imitations. Vietnamese coffee is an excellent souvenir—purchase beans or ground coffee rather than instant mixes for the best quality.
Evening: Farewell Dinner and Departure
Conclude your whirlwind Vietnamese adventure with a special meal:
- For a memorable final dinner, consider Cha Ca La Vong on Cha Ca Street, serving essentially one dish fish-cooked tableside with turmeric, dill, and spring onions—that has sustained this establishment for over a century.
- Alternatively, splurge on upscale Vietnamese cuisine at establishments like Madame Hien or Green Tangerine, which blend French techniques with local flavours.
Vietnamese local food.
Dinner Reservation Tip: Make reservations for your farewell dinner at least a day in advance, especially for more upscale establishments. Request a table with a view if the restaurant offers one.
Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure, carrying memories of Vietnam’s remarkable diversity, resilience, and beauty.
Alternative Itineraries for 5 Days in Vietnam
While this itinerary focuses on Vietnam’s north and south, alternative 5-day plans might include:
Central Vietnam Focus
- Day 1: Da Nang arrival and city tour (Marble Mountains, My Khe Beach)
- Day 2: Ba Na Hills excursion (French Village, Golden Bridge, Fantasy Park)
- Day 3-4: Hoi An Ancient Town (Japanese Covered Bridge, tailoring, countryside bicycle tour, hands-on cooking class)
- Day 5: Hue day trip (Imperial Citadel, Forbidden Purple City, Thien Mu Pagoda) and Da Nang departure
Central Vietnam offers a remarkable concentration of cultural and natural attractions within a relatively compact area. The region was once the seat of the powerful Nguyen Dynasty, whose legacy lives on in the impressive Imperial Citadel and other historical structures. Meanwhile, the ancient trading port of Hoi An represents one of Southeast Asia’s best-preserved historical towns, with influences from Chinese, Japanese, and European merchants visible in its distinctive architecture.
Colorful lanterns hanging above a street in Hoi An, Vietnam.
Central Vietnam Tip: If visiting during the lantern festival (the 14th day of every lunar month), plan to be in Hoi An in the evening when hundreds of colourful lanterns illuminate the ancient town and float down the river. For a less touristic experience, consider visiting the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring Hindu temple ruins from the ancient Champa civilization.
Mekong Delta and South Vietnam Exploration
- Day 1-2: Ho Chi Minh City (city highlights, War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market)
- Day 3-5: Mekong Delta (Cai Rang floating market, tranquil Mekong Delta boat ride, rural homestay, vibrant local life)
The Mekong Delta represents Vietnam’s agricultural heartland, where the mighty Mekong River creates a fertile landscape of rice fields, fruit orchards, and a network of canals that serve as the region’s primary transportation routes. Life here moves at a different pace from the cities, with many activities still revolving around the agricultural calendar and water-based commerce.
Mekong Delta scene, Vietnam.
Mekong Delta Advice: Book a multi-day tour rather than a day trip to truly experience the Mekong’s unique culture. The Cai Rang floating market is most active from 6:00-8:00 am, so plan accordingly. Consider a homestay with a local family for an insight into traditional delta life and authentic home-cooked meals featuring fresh regional specialities.
Northern Vietnam Immersion
- Day 1: Hanoi arrival and Old Quarter exploration
- Day 2: Hanoi cultural sites (Ho Chi Minh Complex, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake)
- Day 3: Halong Bay cruise
- Day 4-5: Sapa (terraced rice fields, minority villages, Fansipan mountain)
Northern Vietnam offers the country’s most dramatic landscapes, from the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay to the terraced rice fields of Sapa. This region is also home to many of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minority groups, each with distinct languages, cultural practices, and traditional dress. A visit to the northern highlands provides insight into these diverse communities whose way of life differs significantly from the Kinh majority.
Sapa is home to several ethnic minority groups, including the Hmong, Dao, Tay, Giay, and Xa Pho.
Northern Vietnam Seasonal Tip: Visit Sapa between September and November to see the rice terraces at their most photogenic, golden hue just before harvest. If trekking in Sapa, hire a local guide from one of the minority communities—typically Hmong or Red Dao women—who can share insights about their culture while leading you through their homeland.
Essential Practical Tips for Your 5-Day Vietnam Itinerary
Visa Requirements
Most visitors require a visa for Vietnam. E-visas are available for many nationalities for stays up to 30 days. Apply online at the official government website at least one week before travel.
Keep a digital and printed copy of your e-visa approval letter. While the digital version is typically sufficient, having a physical backup can be reassuring. Check whether your airline requires a printed copy before boarding your international flight to Vietnam.
Best Time to Visit
Although Vietnam is a year-round destination, selecting the perfect time to visit can greatly enhance your experience. It enables you to enjoy delightful weather, vibrant festivals, and engaging activities.
- Northern Vietnam: October to April (cooler, less rainfall)
- Southern Vietnam: December to April (dry season)
- Central Vietnam: February to July (avoiding the typhoon season)
Vietnam’s climate varies significantly between regions due to its length and topography. The north experiences distinct seasons, including cooler winters, while the south remains tropical year-round. Central Vietnam has a different monsoon pattern from both the north and south, making it possible to find good weather somewhere in the country at any time of year.
Weather Planning: Even during the optimal seasons, pack a light raincoat or umbrella as sudden showers can occur. In northern Vietnam, between December and February, bring layers as evenings can be surprisingly chilly. If travelling during the hot season (May-August), schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat.
Transportation Options
- Between Regions: Domestic flights offer the most time-efficient option for a short trip. Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and VietJet operate frequent services.
- Within Cities: Grab (Southeast Asia’s equivalent to Uber) provides reliable and affordable transport. Download the app before arrival.
- For Short Distances: Walking is often best in old town areas, while cyclos (cycle rickshaws) offer a traditional experience for short, leisurely journeys.
- Intercity Travel: For those with more time, overnight trains connect major cities and offer a unique experience.
Vietnam’s transportation infrastructure has improved dramatically in recent years, making travel between and within cities relatively straightforward. That said, traffic in major urban centres can be chaotic by Western standards, with motorbikes dominating the roads and traffic rules often treated as suggestions rather than requirements.
Transport Tip: Always agree on a price before entering a traditional taxi or cyclo. For Grab rides, check that the driver’s vehicle matches the details in the app before getting in. When crossing busy streets without traffic signals, move steadily and predictably—drivers will adjust their paths to avoid you, but sudden stops or changes in direction can be dangerous.
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Five days in Vietnam merely scratches the surface of this fascinating country. This itinerary prioritises iconic experiences while minimising transit time, allowing you to sample Vietnam’s remarkable diversity within a limited timeframe.
The contrasts between frenetic Ho Chi Minh City and more traditional Hanoi, between urban energy and the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay, provide a balanced introduction to Vietnam’s multifaceted character. Along the way, encounters with warm local people, extraordinary landscapes, poignant historical sites, diverse landscapes and delectable cuisine create a tapestry of experiences that will undoubtedly leave you planning your return to explore more of this captivating country.
Vietnam’s ability to honour its past while embracing the future and preserve traditions while developing rapidly makes it a uniquely rewarding destination—even when you have just a few days to spare.
Interested in travelling to Vietnam for a longer duration? Here is your inspiring itinerary:
