Vietnam, a Southeast Asian gem, invites you to embark on an amazing trip through its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and bustling cities. This thoughtfully curated 10-day itinerary, designed by Designer Journey, will guide you through the country’s diverse regions: the bustling south, the serene north, and the breathtaking central coast.
Prepare to be enchanted by the ancient temples of Ho Chi Minh City, the idyllic beaches and the imperial city of Da Nang, the timeless beauty of Hoi An, and the mystical allure of Ha Long Bay—the new seven natural wonders. From exploring bustling markets to immersing yourself in Vietnam attractions and serene natural wonders, this itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure.
Southern Vietnam Itinerary
Your Vietnam adventure begins in the vibrant southern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. This bustling city perfectly introduces modern Vietnam’s energy and dynamism while offering glimpses into the country’s complex history.
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Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration
Arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport
When you arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon), please take a moment to soak in the vibrant energy of this bustling metropolis. The airport is about 6 km from District 1, the city’s heart, where most travellers choose to stay. After clearing customs, take a taxi or ride-sharing service to your hotel.
Tan Son Nhat International Airport, a bustling hub in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Hotel Check-In and Rest
Check into your hotel in District 1, the vibrant and central area of the city, where you’ll find numerous attractions, restaurants, and cafes. Take the afternoon to rest and acclimate to the new time zone, especially if you’ve just arrived from a long flight. The humid, tropical climate can be a bit of a shock at first, so a short nap or a walk around your hotel will help you recharge.
District 1 is the central business district of Ho Chi Minh City.
Tip: If you’re feeling a bit jetlagged, consider staying in a hotel with a pool to relax and refresh before your city exploration.
Ben Thanh Market: A Taste of Local Life
In the late afternoon, make your way to Ben Thanh Market, one of Ho Chi Minh City’s oldest and largest markets. This vibrant market is the perfect place to immerse yourself in local life and begin your adventure into Vietnamese culture. You’ll find a colourful mix of fresh food produce, handicrafts, souvenirs, textiles, and spices, as well as local street food stalls offering some of the best Vietnamese food.
Ben Thanh Market, a bustling landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Evening Stroll
As evening falls, head to Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a broad, pedestrian-only boulevard in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. The street is lined with cafes, shops, and modern skyscrapers, offering a striking contrast to the traditional architecture in the surrounding streets. As night descends, the street comes alive with street performers, live music, and local life in full swing.
The street is named after Nguyễn Huệ, a famous Vietnamese general and emperor.
Day 2: Historical Sites and Street Food Tour
Morning: War Remnants Museum
Start your day with a visit to the War Remnants Museum, one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most important historical sites. This museum offers a powerful and often confronting look at the Vietnam War, its impact on the country, and the effects of colonialism. The exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the history of the conflict, the role of foreign powers, and the experiences of Vietnamese civilians and soldiers.
It houses a collection of captured military equipment, including planes, tanks, and artillery.
What to Expect:
- The Exhibits: Inside, you’ll find photographs, weapons, and equipment, as well as first-hand accounts that bring the history to life. One of the most striking exhibits is the display of military vehicles, planes, and tanks used during the war, which are on display in the museum’s courtyard.
- Historical Insights: The museum provides a deeper understanding of Vietnamese history and its struggles during the war, offering a balanced perspective on the events that shaped the modern nation. While the displays can be emotional and intense, they are essential to understanding the resilience and courage of the Vietnamese people.
Late Morning: Reunification Palace
Next, visit the Reunification Palace (also known as the Independence Palace), which is another key historical landmark in Ho Chi Minh City. This was the site where the South Vietnamese government collapsed during the fall of Saigon in 1975. The palace has been preserved much as it was on that historic day, offering a fascinating glimpse into the political and military history of the region.
The palace is a popular tourist attraction and houses a museum that tells the story of the Vietnam War.
What to Expect:
- The Rooms: Wander through the rooms where important decisions were made, including the presidential offices, meeting halls, and the war room, which contains maps and radios used during the final days of the war.
- Historical Significance: The palace is also home to beautiful gardens and a rooftop helipad, offering stunning views of the city.
Afternoon: French Colonial Architecture
In the afternoon, explore the French colonial landmarks that still shape the character of Ho Chi Minh City. Begin with the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, a grand example of French colonial architecture built between 1877 and 1883. The cathedral’s twin bell towers and neo-Romanesque design make it one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.
The cathedral’s stained glass windows were crafted in France and depict scenes from the Bible.
What to Expect:
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: Visit the cathedral to admire its impressive facade and take photos of this iconic building. While inside, you’ll notice the stained-glass windows and the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a serene contrast to the bustling streets outside.
- The Central Post Office: Just a short walk from the cathedral is the Central Post Office, another stunning example of colonial architecture designed by Gustave Eiffel (the same architect behind the Eiffel Tower). The building is known for its large, arched windows, intricate ceiling tiles, and grand, open interior, and is still an active post office today.
Evening: Street Food Tour in District 1
End your day with a delightful street food tour in District 1, where you can sample a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes and learn more about the country’s culinary culture. Street food is a significant part of everyday life in Vietnam, and no visit to Ho Chi Minh City would be complete without experiencing it firsthand.
This food tour in District 1 showcases the best of Vietnamese gastronomy.
What to Expect:
- Local Delicacies: During your street food tour, try popular dishes such as pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), goi cuon (fresh spring rolls), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and hu tieu (noodle soup). You’ll also have the chance to sample sweets like che (sweet dessert soups) or chè ba màu (three-coloured dessert).
- Street-side Dining: Enjoy these dishes at street stalls, where locals gather to eat. The guide will explain the history and significance of each dish, giving you a deeper appreciation for Vietnamese food.
- Cultural Experience: As you dine, you’ll learn about the role of food in Vietnamese culture and how traditional recipes have been passed down through generations.
Day 3: Cu Chi Tunnels and Local Life
Morning: Cu Chi Tunnels
Start your day early with a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Located around 35 kilometres northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, the tunnels were part of an intricate system that stretched for over 250 kilometres and served as homes, hospitals, and supply routes during the conflict. This eye-opening experience offers a fascinating glimpse into the ingenuity and resilience of the Vietnamese people during wartime.
Explore the hidden world of the Cu Chi Tunnels, a fascinating reminder of the ingenuity and resilience of the Vietnamese people.
What to Expect:
- Guided Tour: A local guide will take you through the tunnels, explaining the history and significance of the complex network. You’ll see various tunnel entrances, trapdoors, and hidden bunkers and learn about the daily lives of the soldiers who lived here.
- War Strategies: The tunnels were not just living spaces but also vital parts of the Viet Cong’s war strategy, used for ambushing enemy forces and hiding from air raids. The guide will explain the various traps and strategies used to fight against superior forces.
- Cultural Insight: The tunnels also reveal the deep cultural and social resilience of the Vietnamese people, showing how they adapted to the hardships of war.
Afternoon: Cholon and Binh Tay Market
In the afternoon, head to Cholon, Saigon’s Chinatown, a vibrant district that gives you a unique glimpse into the life of the local Chinese-Vietnamese community. Cholon is full of traditional markets, old temples, and historical architecture, reflecting its rich heritage and influence on the city’s development.
Chinatown in Ho Chi Minh City is one of the oldest Chinese communities in Vietnam.
Binh Tay Market: The Binh Tay Market is one of the most famous in Cho Lon and is a great place to see local life in full swing. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh produce and herbs to handmade goods and traditional Vietnamese clothing. The market is lively, with vendors shouting out their wares and offering a glimpse of everyday life in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s a wonderful place to pick up unique souvenirs or simply soak in the atmosphere of this bustling district.
Binh Tay Market’s a great place to find everything from fresh produce to traditional Vietnamese clothing.
Evening: Bitexco Financial Tower
As the sun sets, make your way to the Bitexco Financial Tower, one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic landmarks. The tower, which stands 262 meters tall, offers panoramic views of the city skyline, the Saigon River, and beyond.
Admire the stunning architecture of Bitexco Financial Tower, a symbol of modern Vietnam.
What to Expect:
- Saigon Skydeck: Take the elevator to the Saigon Skydeck on the 49th floor, where you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the sprawling city below. From here, you can see the contrast between the old French colonial buildings and the sleek modern skyscrapers that have come to define Ho Chi Minh City.
- Atmosphere: As evening falls, the lights of the city begin to twinkle, making it a perfect spot for photos or simply soaking in the breathtaking view.
- City Experience: After visiting the Skydeck, you can also visit the Eon Heli Bar on the 52nd floor for a drink and enjoy the city’s skyline from a different perspective.
Day 4: Mekong Delta Exploration
Morning: Departure for My Tho
Start your day early with a trip to My Tho, a bustling town located about two hours from Ho Chi Minh City and often considered the gateway to the Mekong Delta. My Tho is a charming town set along the Mekong River, offering a glimpse into the heart of the Mekong Delta region, where life revolves around the water. The town is known for its lively riverfront and picturesque scenic views, with lush greenery and traditional wooden boats dotting the riverbanks.
It’s a popular destination for boat tours and local markets.
Afternoon: Visiting the Islands and Local Industries
Continue your boat trips through the Mekong Delta, stopping at islands that are home to various fruit orchards, cottage industries, and traditional workshops. Each island offers something unique, and you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the distinct ways of life in the Delta.
Mekong Delta’s home to a diverse ecosystem of plants and animals, including many rare species.
Fruit Orchards: Visit the lush orchards where locals grow tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, bananas, and the famous dragon fruit. You might even get a chance to taste some fresh, local fruits right off the trees.
These orchards provide a beautiful and bountiful landscape.
Cottage Industries: Explore small, family-run cottage industries where local artisans create handicrafts and traditional products. You may visit workshops producing coconut candy, a famous local delicacy, or learn about the making of woven mats and basketry, traditional crafts passed down through generations.
Mekong Delta is home to a variety of cottage industries, including weaving, pottery, and lacquerware.
Local Way of Life: The boat ride offers you a unique opportunity to see how people live in this watery world, where boats are the primary mode of transportation. You’ll witness scenes of everyday life, from children swimming in the river to women paddling their boats to the market.
Experience Local Life Along Mekong River.
Evening: Arrival in Can Tho
In the evening, travel onwards to Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta and a hub of commerce and culture in the region. Can Tho is often referred to as the “Venice of the East” due to its network of rivers, canals, and floating markets.
Can Tho’s known for its bustling floating markets, where merchants sell their goods from boats.
What to Expect:
- Can Tho City: Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and enjoy some downtime. Can Tho is a vibrant city with a mix of modern and traditional elements. You’ll find lively night markets, restaurants serving fresh seafood, and local cafés along the riverside, offering a taste of local flavours.
- Local Cuisine: Be sure to try some of the local specialities, such as banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes), hu tieu (noodle soup), or mango salad. Many of the local restaurants are located by the river, offering lovely views as you dine.
Day 5: Floating Markets and Return to Ho Chi Minh City
Early Morning: Cai Rang Floating Market
Start your day early with a visit to Cai Rang Floating Market, one of the largest and most vibrant floating markets in the Mekong Delta. The market is a lively scene of wooden boats packed with fresh produce, flowers, and handmade goods, all traded on the Mekong River. It’s an iconic part of the local life in this region, where the waterways act as the main avenue for trade.
Cai Rang Floating Market, a bustling market on the Mekong River in Vietnam.
Late Morning: Explore Surrounding Canals
After your visit to the floating market, you and your group can take a boat ride through the surrounding canals. The peaceful, winding waterways of the Delta are lined with lush greenery and traditional homes on stilts. This serene environment contrasts sharply with the activity at the market, giving you a chance to see a quieter side of life in the Mekong.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the peaceful beauty of a Mekong Delta Village.
What to Expect:
- Peaceful Scenery: As you glide along the water, you’ll see traditional wooden houses, small boats carrying families, and lush fruit orchards that thrive in the fertile soil of the Delta. The canals are the lifeblood of the region, and the scenes here offer an authentic glimpse into local life away from the bustling markets.
- Mekong Village Life: You might also see local fishermen using traditional methods or people washing clothes or transporting goods by boat. It’s a beautiful, serene experience that shows you the more tranquil side of life in the Delta.
Afternoon: Return to Ho Chi Minh City
In the afternoon, make your way back to Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll take the drive back through the lush landscapes of the Mekong Delta, crossing small bridges and passing by villages and farms along the way.
Experience the dynamic blend of old and new in Ho Chi Minh City.
What to Expect:
- Mekong Delta Views: The drive back to Ho Chi Minh City offers an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the region, with rice paddies, coconut groves, and small villages scattered along the route.
- Rest and Relaxation: Once back in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll have time to rest, grab a light snack, and refresh before your flight to Da Nang later in the evening.
Evening: Flight to Da Nang
In the evening, catch a flight to Da Nang, preparing for the next phase of your journey to central Vietnam. This vibrant coastal city is the gateway to some of Vietnam’s most famous attractions, including the Marble Mountains, Hoi An, and Hue.
Experience the magic of Da Nang at night.
What to Expect:
- Arrival in Da Nang: Once you arrive at Da Nang Airport, you can either take a taxi to your hotel or arrange for a transfer. After checking in, you may have some time to relax or explore the city, depending on your arrival time.
- Exploring Da Nang: If you have time, take a short evening walk along My Khe Beach to catch a glimpse of the nightlife or enjoy a relaxing dinner by the sea. Da Nang has a growing reputation for its local food, including delicious seafood dishes and fresh, vibrant flavours.
Central Vietnam Itinerary
The central region of Vietnam offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Hoi An, with its well-preserved ancient town, provides a charming contrast to the bustling cities you’ve experienced so far.
Day 6: Hoi An Ancient Town
Morning: Arriving in Hoi An
After arriving at Da Nang the previous evening, make your way to Hoi An in the morning. A 30-minute drive from Da Nang, Hoi An is a charming beach town that has retained its traditional character and historical charm. It’s renowned for its well-preserved mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European architecture, making it a beautiful place to explore.
Hoi An was once a major trading port in Southeast Asia.
What to Expect:
- Hoi An’s Unique Architecture: As you enter the town, you’ll notice the narrow streets lined with yellow-painted buildings featuring Chinese lanterns, wooden shutters, and tile roofs. The town’s architecture is a remarkable blend of the influences from the trading port era when Hoi An was a key stop on maritime trade routes. The Old Town has kept its historic appeal, with buildings dating back to the 15th century.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Hoi An was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 for its historical and architectural significance. It stands as a living testament to the historical role it played in international trade, particularly with China, Japan, and Europe.
Midday: Japanese Covered Bridge and Museums
In the morning, head to the Japanese-covered bridge, one of Hoi An’s most famous landmarks. This iconic structure was built in the 16th century by the Japanese community as a symbol of their connection to the town. The bridge connects the Japanese Quarter with the Chinese Quarter and is adorned with Chinese-style carvings.
Discover the unique architecture of the Japanese Covered Bridge, a historic landmark in Hoi An.
What to Expect:
- Japanese Covered Bridge: Take a moment to admire the architecture and intricate carvings, which include dragons and turtles, symbols of luck and protection in Vietnamese culture. The bridge features a small temple at its entrance, dedicated to the tutelar goddess believed to protect the town from natural disasters.
- Local Museums: After exploring the bridge, visit some of the town’s local museums, such as the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture or the Museum of Trade Ceramics. These provide fascinating insights into the town’s past, from its role as a major trading port to its cultural evolution over centuries. The Hội An Folklore Museum offers a glimpse into the life of the local people, with displays on traditional crafts, local customs, and the significance of the town as a cross-cultural meeting point.
Afternoon: Exploring the Old Town
After your visit to the museums, spend some time wandering through Hoi An Ancient Town. The town is a pedestrian-friendly zone, allowing you to explore the narrow lanes without the distraction of traffic. Keep an eye out for traditional tailors’ shops, where you can commission a custom-made garment, often ready by the next day. Hoi An is also famous for its silk lanterns and handcrafted goods, which make perfect souvenirs.
Step back in time and explore the charming streets of Hoi An Ancient Town.
What to Expect:
- Old Quarter Streets: The town is divided into quarters, each with its own distinct character. The Chinese Quarter has beautifully painted Chinese temples, while the Japanese Quarter is home to old merchant houses. Wander through the town’s ancient alleys, where local shops sell everything from handwoven textiles to delicious local snacks like cao lau (a noodle dish unique to Hoi An).
- Cultural Heritage: The blend of architectural styles reflects the town’s role as a cosmopolitan hub. Historically, it attracted merchants from all over Asia, leaving behind a wealth of cultural and architectural legacies. The town’s buildings are also notable for their lantern-lit facades that come alive at night.
Evening: Lantern-lit Streets and Dinner by the River
As evening falls, Hoi An transforms into an enchanting scene. Thousands of colourful lanterns illuminate the streets, creating a magical atmosphere. You can take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River to see the lanterns reflected in the water, adding to the town’s allure.
A lantern-lit street in Hoi An, Vietnam, at night.
What to Expect:
- Lantern Festival: If you’re visiting during the full moon, you may have the chance to witness Hoi An’s monthly Lantern Festival, where the town’s streets are lit solely by lanterns and the usual electric lights are turned off. It’s a spectacular sight and offers a unique way to experience the town’s beauty.
- Dining by the Thu Bon River: For dinner, head to one of the restaurants by the Thu Bon River, where you can enjoy traditional Vietnamese dishes while soaking in the tranquil riverside setting. Hoi An is famous for its local cuisine, so be sure to try dishes like white rose dumplings or banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes). Many restaurants also serve fresh seafood caught daily from the nearby coast.
After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town’s streets, now alive with the glow of lanterns. The shops remain open late, giving you the chance to pick up some handcrafted items or souvenirs. Hoi An’s charm only deepens after dark when its lantern-lit streets evoke a sense of timeless beauty.
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Day 7: Countryside Tour and Cooking Class
Morning: Countryside Bicycle Tour
Begin your day with a bicycle tour through the picturesque countryside of Hoi An. This is a fantastic way to experience the rural charm of the region, far removed from the bustling town centre. Cycle through lush rice paddies, passing by traditional Vietnamese houses and small local farms.
Hoi An is a very bike-friendly city, making it the perfect destination for a cycling tour.
What to Expect:
- Rice Paddies: Hoi An’s countryside is dotted with vibrant rice fields, particularly beautiful during the planting and harvest seasons. Pedalling through these paddies offers you an authentic insight into the daily life of the local farming community. The landscape is peaceful, with water buffalo and farmers working the fields, adding to the charm.
- Local Villages: You’ll have the opportunity to stop at traditional villages, where you can observe daily life, interact with friendly villagers, and learn about their way of life. Many locals still practice traditional crafts like basket weaving and farming techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Afternoon: Vietnamese Cooking Class
After your countryside exploration, head to a local venue for a cooking class to learn the art of Vietnamese cuisine. Hoi An is famous for its diverse and delicious food, and this is your chance to dive into the local culinary traditions. You will first visit a nearby local market to see delicious street food and pick out fresh ingredients, guided by your expert chef.
Taking a cooking class is a great way to learn about Vietnamese cuisine and culture.
What to Expect:
- Market Visit: The local market is a sensory experience filled with the aromas of fresh herbs, spices, and seafood. You’ll see locals bargaining for everything from fresh vegetables and tropical fruits to meat and seafood. Your guide will explain how to choose the best ingredients for making iconic dishes.
- Hands-on Cooking: Once back in the kitchen, you’ll learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes under the expert guidance of a local chef. You may cook dishes such as pho (a Vietnamese noodle soup), banh xeo (crispy pancakes), or cao lau (a Hoi An speciality). The class is designed for all levels of experience, and you’ll enjoy the fruits of your labour after the session.
- Tasting Session: After preparing your dishes, enjoy a hearty meal with fellow participants, tasting the dishes you’ve just created. This experience is an excellent way to understand the complexity of Vietnamese flavours and cooking techniques.
Evening: Shopping in Hoi An’s Old Town
After your cooking class, spend your evening exploring Hoi An’s Old Town, a charming place known for its tailors, artisan shops, and lantern-lit streets. The Old Town is a pedestrian-friendly zone, making it a pleasure to stroll through.
Explore the vibrant and historic streets of Hoi An Ancient Town.
What to Expect:
- Custom Clothing: Hoi An is known for its talented tailors, who can craft custom-made clothing in just 24 hours. Whether you’re after a tailored suit, a traditional Ao Dai (Vietnamese dress), or a unique dress or shirt, the high-quality craftsmanship in Hoi An is renowned. The fast turnaround time means you can have something made to measure during your stay.
- Shopping for Handcrafted Goods: Aside from tailoring, the Old Town is filled with artisan shops selling handmade jewellery, embroidered fabrics, silk goods, and wooden crafts. This is the perfect opportunity to purchase souvenirs or gifts to take home.
- Lantern-lit Streets: As evening falls, the streets of Hoi An glow with colourful lanterns. It’s a beautiful sight, especially near the Japanese Covered Bridge and along the Thu Bon River. Take your time to soak in the atmosphere, enjoy a leisurely coffee, or pick up unique keepsakes from the local shops.
Day 8: Da Nang and Travel to Hanoi
Morning: Visit the Marble Mountains
Start your day by visiting the Marble Mountains, a stunning cluster of five marble and limestone hills located just outside Da Nang. Each mountain is named after one of the five elements: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth. The mountains are not only a natural wonder but also home to a complex of temples, pagodas, and caves.
Explore the spiritual and natural beauty of the Marble Mountains.
What to Expect: As you ascend the Marble Mountains, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Da Nang, the My Khe Beach, and the surrounding countryside. You can take a cable car for convenience or hike up for a more rewarding experience.
Midday: Relax at My Khe Beach
After your visit to the Marble Mountains, head to My Khe Beach, one of Da Nang’s most famous beaches. With its long stretch of white sand and blue waters, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a morning of sightseeing.
Relax on the pristine sands of My Khe Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Da Nang.
What to Expect:
- Relaxing Atmosphere: My Khe Beach is known for its laid-back vibe, making it a great place to relax. The beach is not overcrowded, so you can enjoy some quiet time by the sea or take a refreshing swim in the warm waters of the South China Sea.
- Water Sports: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try out some water sports, such as surfing, jet-skiing, or parasailing, available at the beach.
- Local Cafes: There are plenty of beachside cafes where you can enjoy fresh seafood and a cold drink while taking in the view of the ocean.
Afternoon: Flight to Hanoi
In the afternoon, catch a flight from Da Nang to Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital. The internal flights take around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the charm and history of the city.
Explore the bustling hub of Noi Bai International Airport, the gateway to Vietnam.
What to Expect: After you arrive at Noi Bai International Airport, take a short transfer to your hotel in the Old Quarter of Hanoi. The Old Quarter is the heart of Hanoi, known for its narrow, bustling streets and traditional French-colonial architecture.
Evening: Explore the Old Quarter
Spend your evening in the Old Quarter, one of Hanoi’s most iconic areas. The Old Quarter is famous for its maze-like streets, each historically dedicated to a specific trade. As you wander through the narrow lanes, you’ll pass by street vendors, artisan shops, and local eateries.
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is one of the best-preserved historic districts in Southeast Asia.
What to Expect:
- Busy Streets: The streets of the Old Quarter are always buzzing with activity. It’s the perfect place to experience the lively atmosphere of Hanoi. Don’t forget to check out Hoan Kiem Lake, located at the heart of the Old Quarter. The lake is a peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Local Cuisine: Hanoi is renowned for its food, so take the opportunity to sample traditional dishes like pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), or cha ca (fish with dill). You’ll find plenty of small street-side cafes where you can enjoy a Vietnamese iced coffee or a local beer while watching the world go by.
Northern Vietnam Itinerary
The final leg of your journey takes you to northern Vietnam, where you’ll experience the charm of Hanoi, the country’s capital, and the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay.
Day 9: Hanoi City Tour
Morning: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and One Pillar Pagoda
Start your day with a visit to two of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks: the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the One Pillar Pagoda.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
This grand monument is dedicated to Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. It’s a solemn site where the leader’s embalmed body is displayed in a highly secure mausoleum. Visitors are expected to dress respectfully and observe a quiet, respectful atmosphere while inside.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A must-see in your trip to Hanoi.
What to Expect: The Mausoleum is part of a large complex that includes Ho Chi Minh’s former stilt house, the Presidential Palace, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum, where you can learn about the life and legacy of this pivotal figure in Vietnam’s history.
Opening Hours: The Mausoleum is open in the mornings (except Mondays and Fridays), so it’s best to visit early to avoid crowds.
One Pillar Pagoda
Just a short walk from the Mausoleum, this small yet stunning Buddhist pagoda is built on a single pillar in the middle of a lotus pond. Originally constructed in 1049, it is one of the oldest and most recognisable landmarks in Hanoi, symbolising Vietnam’s spiritual and architectural heritage.
It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in Hanoi.
What to Expect: The pagoda is designed to resemble a lotus flower, a symbol of purity in Vietnamese culture. Visitors can also explore the tranquil grounds surrounding the pagoda, which are perfect for a peaceful moment of reflection.
Midday: Temple of Literature
Next, head to the Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu), Vietnam’s first national university. It was founded in 1070 during the Lý Dynasty to honour Confucius and the country’s scholars.
It’s a popular destination for students and history buffs alike.
What to Expect:
- Historical Significance: This peaceful site is a tribute to Vietnam’s long-standing tradition of learning and intellectualism. The beautiful courtyards, pavilions, and stelae of doctors (stone tablets bearing the names of those who passed the imperial exams) are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam.
- Stunning Architecture: The well-preserved buildings and gardens offer a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese architecture, with its harmonious mix of Confucianism and Buddhist principles.
Afternoon: Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
After lunch, take a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of Hanoi and a serene spot to escape the bustling streets. The lake, known as the Lake of the Restored Sword, has an important place in Vietnamese legend.
Discover the serene beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake, a historic lake in the heart of Hanoi.
What to Expect:
- Tranquil Atmosphere: Walk along the tree-lined paths or sit by the water to watch the locals practice tai chi or feed the turtles in the lake, a symbolic species connected to the legend of Le Loi (a national hero).
- Ngoc Son Temple: Situated on a small island in the middle of the lake, Ngoc Son Temple is dedicated to the Goddess of the Sword, General Tran Hung Dao, and Confucius. You can reach the temple by crossing the Red Bridge (Cầu Thê Húc), a bright red wooden bridge with ornate carvings.
Evening: Traditional Water Puppet Show
End your day with a traditional water puppet show, one of the most unique art forms in Vietnam. Water puppetry dates back to the 11th century and was originally performed in rice paddies to celebrate harvests and village life.
Experience the unique and captivating art form of water puppetry.
What to Expect:
- Performance: The show features puppets controlled by hidden rods, performing on a water stage. The performances are accompanied by traditional music, and the themes often depict rural life, folk tales, and historical stories.
- Location: The most famous venue for water puppetry in Hanoi is the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, located near Hoan Kiem Lake. It’s a must-see cultural experience that provides a fascinating glimpse into Vietnamese traditions.
Day 10: Halong Bay Day Trip
Morning: Departure to Halong Bay
On your final day in Vietnam, start with an early morning departure from Hanoi to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of Vietnam. The journey takes about 3 to 4 hours by car or bus, and it is highly recommended to leave early to maximise your time in Halong Bay itself.
Halong Bay is home to thousands of limestone karsts and islets.
What to Expect: Halong Bay is famous for its emerald green waters and over 1,600 limestone islands and islets that rise dramatically from the sea. These islands are often covered in dense tropical rainforests, creating a mystical landscape that has captivated visitors for centuries.
Midday: Scenic Cruise and Exploration
Once you visit Ha Long Bay, embark on a boat trip through Halong Bay itself’s stunning waters. While an overnight cruise would offer a more relaxed and in-depth Halong Bay cruise experience, this day trip still provides ample opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the region.
Halong Bay is a popular destination for cruise ship tours.
What to Expect:
- Cave Exploration: The cruise will typically include stops at some of the bay’s most famous caves and grottos, such as the Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
- Scenic Views: Spend time taking in the incredible panoramic views of the towering limestone karsts that dot the bay, with their lush greenery contrasting against the deep blue of the waters. You may also have the chance to kayak or swim in the bay’s calm waters.
Afternoon: Relaxation and Return to Hanoi
After exploring the caves and islands, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch onboard, often served with freshly caught fish and other local specialities. As the boat tour meanders through the bay, you’ll have time to relax and take in the scenic surroundings.
Discover the unique rock formations of Halong Bay, including the iconic Fighting Cock Islet.
What to Expect: You’ll have the chance to snap photos of some of the most iconic landscapes of Halong Bay, such as the Fighting Cocks rock formation. The boat may also pass by some of the Halong Bay Cruise itself’s lesser-known but equally stunning islands, offering a more peaceful and secluded view of the bay.
Evening: Return to Hanoi and Departure
After a full day of exploring Halong Bay, you’ll head back to Hanoi in the late afternoon, arriving in the early evening. Depending on your departure flight time, you may have a brief opportunity for some last-minute shopping or a final meal in Hanoi before heading to Noi Bai International Airport for your flight home.
Discover the serene beauty of iconic landmarks in Hanoi.
What to Expect: The return journey to Hanoi will likely take around 3 to 4 hours, so make sure to plan accordingly to allow enough time to reach the airport. This is the perfect moment to reflect on the incredible experiences of the past 10 days, from Hanoi’s rich history to the stunning landscapes of Halong Bay.
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Vietnam is a mesmerizing country, bursting with stunning landscapes, captivating history, and a lively culture that enchants every visitor. Whether it’s the allure of ancient temples, the breathtaking beauty of its scenery, or the energy of its bustling cities, this two-week itinerary will immerse you in a delightful array of experiences. With this itinerary in hand, you’re sure to depart from Vietnam with cherished memories and a profound admiration for its heritage and charm.
