Vietnam is an amazing place to explore, and with so much to see and do, you could easily spend weeks here. But, if you only have a week, this 7-day itinerary will give you a solid taste of the country’s rich culture, history, and nature without feeling rushed. Here’s a well-rounded plan that takes you through Vietnam’s highlights.
Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi
Your journey kicks off in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital. After you arrive and get settled, head out to explore the Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets and bustling shops. It’s the heart of the city and perfect for just walking around, maybe grabbing a bite from one of the street vendors.
In the afternoon, visit Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. You’ll likely see locals practicing tai chi or simply relaxing by the water. Cross the red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple, which sits right on the lake and offers a quiet escape.
End your first day with a traditional water puppet show. These performances, which date back centuries, give you a good insight into local legends and folklore.
Day 2: Full Day in Hanoi
Start your day early at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to see where Vietnam’s revered leader is laid to rest. Next, visit the nearby Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, where he lived for several years.
From there, check out the One Pillar Pagoda, a historic Buddhist temple famous for its unique architecture. It rises from a single column in a lotus pond, symbolizing purity.
In the afternoon, head to the Temple of Literature. This is Vietnam’s first university, and its peaceful courtyards and beautiful structures will transport you back to the 11th century.
Wrap up the evening with some delicious street food. Don’t miss bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) or pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) in one of the local eateries.
Day 3: Ha Long Bay Cruise
Today, leave Hanoi and head to Ha Long Bay. The journey takes about 4 hours, but it’s worth the ride. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands.
Most visitors explore Ha Long Bay by taking an overnight cruise. You’ll spend the day sailing among the islands, stopping to explore caves and swim in the bay. Many cruises also offer kayaking and island hikes, so you’ll have plenty of activities throughout the day.
In the evening, enjoy a meal on board while watching the sun set over the bay’s karst formations. It’s an unforgettable experience.
Day 4: Return to Hanoi and Head to Hoi An
After enjoying breakfast onboard and maybe one last swim or kayak session, make your way back to the mainland. From there, return to Hanoi and catch a quick flight to Danang. Danang is the closest airport to Hoi An, which will be your base for the next few days.
Once in Hoi An, settle into your accommodation and head out to explore the Old Town. Hoi An is famous for its lantern-lit streets and well-preserved architecture. Walk around and soak in the atmosphere, or shop at one of the many tailor shops.
Day 5: Discover Hoi An
Spend the day exploring the charms of Hoi An. Start with a trip to the Japanese Covered Bridge, one of the town’s iconic landmarks. From there, visit the nearby Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation, a beautifully decorated temple.
In the afternoon, consider joining a cooking class. Many local establishments offer classes where you can learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes. Plus, it’s a fun way to learn more about Vietnam’s rich culinary history.
If you’d rather relax, you can head to An Bang Beach. Just a short bike ride from the Old Town, it’s a chill spot to enjoy some sun and surf for the afternoon.
Day 6: My Son Sanctuary and More in Hoi An
Start the day with a trip to My Son Sanctuary, about an hour’s drive from Hoi An. This ancient site was once the spiritual center of the Champa Kingdom. The collection of Hindu temples here gives you an interesting look into Vietnam’s ancient past.
After you get back to Hoi An, spend the rest of the afternoon wandering through the town or take a short boat ride on the Thu Bon River. As night falls, the lanterns of Hoi An come alive, giving the town a magical vibe.
Day 7: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and Explore
This morning, catch a flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Once you arrive, take some time to visit the War Remnants Museum, a sobering reminder of Vietnam’s recent history. Afterward, walk around Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, both historical landmarks from the time of French colonial rule.
In the afternoon, explore Ben Thanh Market. You can find anything here, from souvenirs to clothes, and it’s a great place to try all sorts of Vietnamese food. Don’t leave without tasting a banh mi or some freshly made spring rolls.
Day 8: Cu Chi Tunnels and Departure
On your final day in Vietnam, make a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located about an hour and a half outside of Ho Chi Minh City. This vast underground network was used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. You can even crawl through some of the tunnels, though it’s not for the claustrophobic.
After you return to the city, take some time to relax before heading to the airport for your departure. If you have extra time, grab a coffee at one of the many local cafes. Vietnamese drip coffee is a strong yet sweet treat to end your trip with.
Final Thoughts
This 7-day Vietnam itinerary gives you a good blend of the country’s highlights. You’ll get a little bit of history, culture, adventure, and relaxation. While it’s impossible to see everything in a single week, this schedule ensures you’ll come away with great memories and a deep appreciation for the beauty and diverse experiences Vietnam has to offer.
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