This two-week Vietnam itinerary takes you from north to south, starting in Hanoi and ending in Ho Chi Minh City. Experience Hanoi’s vibrant culture, cruise Hạ Long Bay’s emerald waters, and explore historic Hue and Hoi An. The journey concludes with the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City and a scenic Mekong Delta river trip. This trip perfectly captures Vietnam’s diverse cities and serene landscapes.
Overview
Explore the best of Vietnam in 2 weeks from North to South – Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Cruise, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta.
Hanoi: The capital city, known for its centuries-old architecture and a rich culture with Southeast Asian, Chinese, and French influences.
Ninh Binh:Famous for its ancient temples, colonial-era buildings, and nearby natural sights like Trang An and Tam Coc.
Halong Bay: Known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests.
Hue: This Imperial City was the capital for the Nguyen dynasty and is known for its historic monuments and architecture.
Hoi An: A well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port with buildings and street plan reflecting a unique blend of influences.
Ho Chi Minh City: Formerly known as Saigon, it’s famous for its role in the Vietnam War and is a bustling, modern city.
Mekong Delta: Known for its maze of rivers, swamps, and islands, with floating markets and villages.
Trip Highlights
- Discover the sights, sounds, and flavors of Hanoi.
- Cruise through the incredible landscape of Halong Bay.
- Marvel and the grand imperial buildings in Hue.
- Explore the UNESCO river town of Hoi An.
- Visit Ho Chi Minh City and travel up the Mekong Delta.
Itinerary
Xin chào! Welcome to Vietnam! Your Vietnam adventure begins with your arrival in Hanoi. Your private driver will meet you at the airport, holding a signboard with your name. He will escort you to your accommodation right in the heart of the city, with the fascinating Old Quarter at your fingertips. You can easily explore the city at your own pace or relax at the hotel after the flight.
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be picked up by your guide to begin your exploration of Hanoi City.
The first stop will be at Tran Quoc Pagoda, located on Golden Fish Island in West Lake. This pagoda is the oldest in Hanoi and was built in the 6th century. Admire the stunning architecture and learn about the history and culture of this important landmark. Then move to Ho Chi Minh Complex, here you can visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of Vietnamese great father, President Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, where he lived on and off from 1958 to 1969. Afterwards head to visit the One Pillar Pagoda, which worships the Goddess of Mercy and is considered the most unique pagoda in the world.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, your guide will help you to order some of the best Vietnamese cuisine.
In the afternoon, continue your tour with a visit to the Temple of Literature, the first university of Vietnam established in the 11th century. This is a great place to learn about the education system of Vietnam in ancient times.
Continue to the Vietnam Ethnology Museum to learn about the culture of the 54 ethnic groups living in Vietnam (If your tour falls on a Monday, the museum will be closed, and you will visit the Women’s Museum instead.)
After that, explore Hanoi by traveling through the Old Quarter with 36 ancient streets by a traditional cyclo (cycle rickshaw). This slow - speed tour will give you a great chance to fully enjoy the classic and modern of Hanoi. Your day visit ends after sending you back to your hotel, it is your free time to go shopping, relax in Hanoi.
Optional: Later afternoon, you can watch a Water Puppet Show for one hour. It is a unique traditional performance of Vietnam.
P.S. Please note that Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays. If your tour falls on either of these days, an alternative itinerary will be arranged.
After breakfast at your hotel, then you will be picked up and enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive through the fertile lands of the Red River Delta. Firstly you will be arranged to visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam between 968 and 1010. You have a chance to learn about Vietnamese history in the feudal system under Dinh, Le and Ly Dynasty. Then enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, head to Trang An, which was recognized by UNESCO as The world Heritage Site in 2014.
Upon arrival at Trang An, indulge in a 3-hour sampan boat ride through the river and tunnel-like caves in the "Inland Halong Bay," a stunning area known for its karst formations.
Afterwards, gear up for a cycling journey on the back roads through the tranquil countryside to reach Hang Mua cave, where you will embark on a hike to the summit. Marvel at the panoramic views of the karst formations and capture some memories with your camera. Hike downhill and continue your bike ride to Tam Coc area before checking into your hotel to rest before dinner. Spend the night in Ninh Binh and relish in the memories of the day's adventure.
Day 4 Ninh Binh- Halong Bay, Halong Bay Cruise
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel in Ninh Binh before checking out. At 8:00 a.m., you will set off on a 3.5 hours scenic drive to the stunning Halong Bay– Known as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, Halong bay is must for visitors when going to Vietnam.
Upon arrival, embark the cruise and enjoy welcome drink while having tour briefing. A sumptuous lunch will be served on board while the ship sailing further towards the southeast of Halong Bay, make your time to admire the fascinating scenery of the limestone islands.
In the afternoon, while cruising in Halong bay for the breathtaking scenery of the bay and you can also participate in some exciting activities off the boat, such as having an excursion to Hang Luon Cave by bamboo rowing boats or kayaking, visit Titop island where you can swim in the emerald water and hike up to the top of the island to enjoy amazing panorama views of Halong bay. Return to the cruise in the late afternoon and join the sunset cocktail party with desserts and snacks. Or else, you can participate in the cooking class to try to make Spring Rolls.
Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner and stay overnight on board.
Wake up early and enjoy the stunning sunrise on the bay and practice a Tai Chi session to exercise on the sundeck.
Then, begin your day with a nice breakfast. Afterward, you'll be taken on a tour of Sung Sot Cave, one of Halong Bay's largest caves. This remarkable site is adorned with thousands of stalactites and stalagmites, which you can admire along a 500-meter paved path. Inside, you'll be captivated by the colorful lighting that reveals hidden shapes in the rock formations. Following this incredible cave exploration, head back to your cruise for some refreshments. You'll need to check out of your cabin around 9:15 - 9:30 AM as the cruise makes its way back to the port. Enjoy the last moments of your Halong Bay experience with a sumptuous buffet brunch in the dining room.
Disembark the cruise around 10:30 - 11:30. You can wait for your driver in the waiting lounge at the pier. From there, you will be picked up and transferred to Hanoi airport for the flight to Hue (An option to take the overnight train from Hanoi to Hue is also available). Upon your arrival at Hue, you will be picked up by local driver and drive you to hotel in Hue. Overnight at Hue.
Today, you'll embark on a guided sightseeing tour in Hue, once the capital of the 19th-century Nguyen dynasty. Your day starts with a scenic dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, offering picturesque views of the countryside. You'll visit the stunning Pagoda of Thien Mu, renowned for its magnificent seven-story Heavenly Lady tower.
Next, you'll explore a traditional garden house, experiencing a 19th-century Hue residence and hearing tales of royal heritage from your host. The tour continues with a visit to Citadel and the Imperial City, where you'll see landmarks like the Flag Tower, Ngo Mon Gate, the Nine Dynastic Urns, Nine Holy Cannons, Thai Hoa Palace, and the Forbidden Purple City (Tu Cam Thanh).
For lunch, savor the flavors of Hue royal cuisine at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, the tour takes you to the serene tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, set amidst beautiful gardens and lakes, followed by the Khai Dinh Tomb, which beautifully combines Western and Eastern architectural styles.
If time allows, you might stop at a local incense-making village, a hat-making village, or Dong Ba market for some shopping and a chance to interact with the charming locals of Hue. The day's exploration concludes around 17:00 at your hotel.
For an optional evening activity, consider joining a Royal traditional music performance on a Dragon boat as it sails along the Perfume River. This music, recognized as a Cultural World Heritage, offers a unique insight into the royal heritage of Hue.
Have breakfast at the hotel and get ready to drive from Hue to Hoi An by private car. You will drive through one of the most beautiful roads in the world - Hai Van Pass (Road of the Ocean Clouds), which offers magnificent views of beaches to one side and lush hills to the other. En route stop for a walk along My Khe beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline which was nicknamed 'China Beach' by the Americans during the war and famously featured in Francis Ford Coppola’s movie ‘Apocalypse Now’. Upon arrival in Hoi An check in the hotel and have free time to explore the surrounding area.
The charming, old-world trading port of Hoi An with its cobbled streets, traditional homes and tiny shop houses is a perfect place to lose yourself in a bygone era. Boutique restaurants, hip cafes along the waterfront, delightful craft shops and artisans including some of Asia’s best bespoke tailors (whose services come at a nominal price), all can be found here.
Overnight at Hoi An.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An Ancient Town is just the right definition of Vietnam's timeless charm.
This morning you will get picked up after breakfast and then be taken to the boat docks. From there, you'll be taken to a fishing village where you can see and experience the life of fishing communities. Hop in a basket boat for a short row around the village, and then enjoy a delicious local lunch.
After lunch, cycle along country roads through fields of rice, coconut, and corn, and head back to the town of Hoi An. In the afternoon, you will have a walking tour to visit the essences of Hoi An: the enchanting historical town, you will visit the Chua Ong Pagoda, Chinese Assembly Hall, 200-year-old Tam Ky house, former merchants’ homes and the 400 year-old Japanese Covered Bridge.
P.S. During your stay in Hoi An, we offer a unique optional Hoi An Street Eats add-on, which explores the city’s most popular local haunts. Cruise the city the way the locals do, by vintage Vespa and enjoy lots of tasty Vietnamese Cuisine. Book early with your reservation consultant, as numbers are limited.
After breakfast, enjoy free time to explore the Hoi An ancient town. You can shop, admire the ancient architecture, or relax at the beach. Approximately two hours before your flight, our driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to Da Nang airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, one of Vietnam's most modern cities, offering fascinating insights into its rich culture and history. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be escorted to your hotel for check-in.
The remainder of the day is yours to discover the city at your leisure. Overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City.
After breakfast at your hotel, your private guide will meet you in the lobby. You'll embark on a one-and-a-half-hour journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a remarkable underground network extending over 220 km. These tunnels, a testament to human resilience, played a crucial role as guerrilla shelters during the Vietnam War, offering a profound insight into this significant historical period.
Following lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon is reserved for a Ho Chi Minh City tour. You'll visit the Reunification Hall, once known as the Presidential Palace, a key site in the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975. This historically rich building holds many memories. The tour also covers the War Remnants Museum, the Old Post Office, Chinatown, and Ben Thanh Market – the central and vibrant hub of the city. The city tour ends after taking you back to your hotel. The rest of the evening is yours to relax and explore as you wish. Your overnight stay will be in Ho Chi Minh City.
Heading out of the town, you will set forth to the Mekong Delta, Vietnam's largest granary. During the 1.5-2 hour drive, you will enjoy the landscapes and scenery of green rice fields while listening to your guide sharing the local culture of Mekong Delta before arriving at My Tho, a beautiful rural city known for its lush orchard gardens and traditional folk music.
Take a leisurely cruise on the Tien River to see 4 islets which are represented as four mythical animals in Southeast Asia: Dragon, Kirin, Tortoise, and Phoenix. At Kirin islet, visit a honey bee farm and a coconut candy workshop where you can taste the local specialties and see how the delicious sweets are made by hand. Walk through the orchard gardens to taste some seasonal tropical fruits and listen to some folk music. Relax on a rowing boat cruise as you journey through a mangrove palm canal then continue your trip with a horse-drawn carriage ride through the village to experience the way locals traveled in the 19th-century. After eating lunch at a beautiful riverside restaurant, head back to Can Tho City and enjoy free time in the evening to explore. Stay overnight at your hotel.
Today morning take a leisure boat trip to explore the picturesque tributaries of the Lower Mekong River (Bassac River) then visit to Cai Rang floating market which is the largest and liveliest one in the whole of region. Watch barefoot traders do business from tiny boats piled with flowers, coconuts, and colorful produce.
You will have 2 options to meet your guide: at 5 AM or 7 AM. If you choose 5 AM, then you can have breakfast after coming back to your hotel from the floating market. If you choose 7 AM, you should have breakfast before meeting the guide. Even though Cai Rang Floating Market is open all day, the perfect time to catch the lively atmosphere is at around 6 AM. Cruise along the Hau river from Ninh Kieu Wharf and try tropical fruits or even a hot rice noodle soup for a light breakfast. Stop at a chewy noodle workshop to learn more about other kinds of Vietnamese noodles.
Around 9:00AM to 9:30am, return to your hotel for check-out. After that, begin your journey back to Ho Chi Minh City. En route, make a stop at the 10 Vo ancient house. Explore this historic Vietnamese house, learn about its architectural details, and gain insights into local traditions and customs. You will get back to Ho Chi Minh City around 4pm, the rest of the day is yours to relax and explore as you wish. Your overnight stay will be in Ho Chi Minh City.
Today is free for you to enjoy Ho Chi Minh City before your departure transfer to the airport. Opt for a relaxing foot massage or shop for souvenirs at Ben Thanh Market.
If you desire an extension trip to neighboring countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos, or destinations on other continents, feel free to contact our travel consultants anytime.
The Trip Cost Includes
- 1. Accommodation:
- - 11 nights Hotels with daily breakfast at your selected standard at Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh city and Can Tho,
- - 1 night Cruise at Halong Bay.
- 2. Guide: Experienced English-speaking guides service for sightseeing.
- 3. Transportation:
- - Ground tour/ airport transfers with private A/C vehicle with driver.
- - Domestic airfares (economy class seat) Hanoi - Hue, Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh city.
- - Shared transportation from Halong Bay to Hanoi airport offered by cruise company on Day 5.
- 4. Entrance tickets: Entrance fees for the included sightseeing and activities.
- 5. Full board Cruise tour at Halong Bay
- 6. Other fees: Government tax and travel agency handling fee.
The Trip Cost Excludes
- 1. International flights.
- 2. Any optional visits/tours for an additional cost(Please contact our team of Travel Experts if you want to add some of them to your tour.)
- 3. Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- 4. Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
- 5. Travel insurance.
- 6. Tipping to your guide & driver.
- 7. International Flights arrival & Departure from Ho Chi Minh City.
- 8. Vietnam visa fee.
Frequently asked Questions
The best time to visit Vietnam depends on the region you plan to visit, as the country spans several climatic zones. Here’s a general guide:
- Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa): The best time to visit is from October to April. During these months, the weather is generally cool and dry. Winter in the north (December to February) can be quite cold, especially in the mountainous areas like Sapa.
- Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An): The ideal time to visit is from January to August. Central Vietnam experiences a dry season with warm weather during this period, making it great for beach holidays and cultural exploration.
- Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta): The dry season, from November to April, is the best time to visit. The weather is hot and humid but more bearable than the rainy season, which lasts from May to October.
- Coastal Areas: For beach destinations like Nha Trang or Phu Quoc, the best time is during their respective dry seasons. For Nha Trang, it’s between January and August, and for Phu Quoc, it’s from November to March.
Keep in mind that Tet, the Vietnamese New Year (usually in late January or early February), is a huge festival. While it’s a culturally rich time to visit, many businesses close during this period, and travel can be more hectic.
Overall, if you plan to travel across multiple regions, the months of March, April, and November often provide a good balance of weather conditions throughout the country.
The currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). As for the use of credit cards, it varies depending on where you are in the country:
- Cities and Tourist Areas: In major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and in well-known tourist destinations, credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, large restaurants, and shopping malls. International credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, and sometimes American Express are commonly accepted.
- ATMs: ATMs are readily available in cities and most towns, making it easy to withdraw cash. Be aware that withdrawal fees and limits can vary between different banks.
- Currency Exchange: It’s a good practice to exchange some money into Vietnamese Dong for smaller purchases and in places where credit cards might not be accepted. Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and official exchange counters.
- Traveler’s Checks and Other Currencies: These are not commonly used or accepted in Vietnam. It’s more convenient to rely on cash (in Vietnamese Dong) and credit cards.
In summary, while credit cards are accepted in many places in Vietnam, especially in urban and tourist areas, it’s essential to have local currency for smaller purchases and in less urbanized areas.
Traveling in Vietnam is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to take certain precautions and be aware of local conditions. Here are some safety considerations:
- Crime: Vietnam is relatively safe in terms of violent crime, but petty crimes like pickpocketing, bag snatching, and scams can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas. It’s advisable to be vigilant, keep your belongings secure, and be cautious of scams and overly friendly strangers.
- Traffic Safety: Traffic in Vietnam, particularly in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, can be chaotic with a large number of motorcycles and scooters. Exercise caution when crossing streets, and always be aware of your surroundings. If you plan to ride a motorcycle, ensure you have the appropriate license, wear a helmet, and understand local traffic laws.
- Health Concerns: Avoid drinking tap water; bottled water is readily available. Be cautious with street food; while it’s a key part of Vietnamese culture and generally safe, ensure it’s freshly cooked and served hot. Also, be up to date with routine vaccinations, and consider vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid.
- Natural Hazards: Depending on the season, certain areas might be prone to natural hazards like typhoons (especially from May to October) and flooding. Always check the weather forecast and local news for any travel advisories.
- Local Laws and Customs: Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs to avoid inadvertently offending someone or breaking the law. Drug laws are particularly strict, and penalties for drug offenses are severe.
- Travel Insurance: It’s always advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers theft, loss, medical problems, and emergency evacuation.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries are eligible for e-Visas or visa-on-arrival, but it’s best to check the latest regulations.
- Visa Exemptions: Some nationalities are exempt from visas for short visits. For example, citizens of certain Southeast Asian countries can enter Vietnam without a visa for a limited number of days. Some European countries also have visa exemption agreements for short stays (usually up to 15 days). It’s important to check the current visa policy for your specific nationality.
- e-Visa: Vietnam offers an e-Visa option for citizens of about 80 countries. This single-entry visa is valid for up to 30 days and can be applied for online through the official government portal. The process usually involves filling out an application, uploading a photo, and paying a fee. Once approved, the e-Visa is sent via email.
- Visa on Arrival (VOA): For longer stays or for those not eligible for an e-Visa, a Visa on Arrival might be an option. However, this requires a pre-approval letter, which must be arranged prior to travel, usually through a travel agency. Upon arrival in Vietnam, you present the approval letter, passport, and photos, and pay a stamping fee to receive your visa.
- Embassy or Consulate Visa: You can also apply for a visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country. This is a more traditional method and may be necessary for certain types of visas, like business or student visas.
- Duration and Types of Visas: The length of stay and type of visa (tourist, business, student, etc.) will vary based on your needs. Ensure you apply for the correct visa category.
- Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from Vietnam.
Always check the most current visa requirements and travel advisories from an official source or the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country, as visa policies can change.
Vietnam is a country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, offering a wide range of destinations for travelers. Here are some of the top destinations to consider:
- Hanoi: The capital city is known for its centuries-old architecture and a rich culture with Southeast Asian, Chinese, and French influences. Key attractions include the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
- Ha Long Bay: Famous for its stunning limestone karsts and isles in various shapes and sizes, Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s best experienced by a boat tour or cruise.
- Hoi An: This charming ancient town is known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, cut through with canals. The former port city’s melting-pot history is reflected in its architecture, a mix of eras and styles.
- Hue: Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue is home to the ruins of the Imperial City, a vast complex of palaces, temples, walls, and gates.
- Da Nang: Known for its sandy beaches and history as a French colonial port, Da Nang is a modern city with attractions like the Marble Mountains and the Dragon Bridge.
- Nha Trang: A coastal resort city known for its beaches, diving sites, and offshore islands. Nha Trang also offers a vibrant nightlife.
- Sapa: Located in the Hoang Lien Son mountains, Sapa is famous for its terraced rice fields and is a great place for trekking and experiencing local ethnic culture.
- Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): The bustling largest city in Vietnam offers a mix of historic French colonial buildings and modern skyscrapers. Notable attractions include the War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Cu Chi tunnels.
- Phu Quoc Island: Known for its white-sand beaches and resorts, Phu Quoc is a beautiful island near the Cambodian border. It’s also famous for its fish sauce and black pepper production.
- Mekong Delta: The region in southwestern Vietnam where the Mekong River approaches and empties into the sea. It’s known for its floating markets, lush landscapes, and traditional way of life.
Vietnamese cuisine is diverse, with popular dishes including Pho (noodle soup), Banh Mi (sandwich), spring rolls, and a variety of rice and noodle dishes.
Vietnamese is the official language. English is increasingly spoken, particularly in tourist areas.
Options include buses, trains, taxis, motorbike taxis, and domestic flights. Ride-hailing services like Grab are also popular.
Respectful behavior, especially in religious sites, is important. Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas, and remove shoes when entering local homes.
Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes, especially in urban and tourist areas.
Yes, Vietnam is family-friendly with various activities and cultural experiences that appeal to all ages.
