Vietnam is a land of contrasts — misty mountains in the far north, golden rice terraces cascading into valleys, ancient towns brimming with history, and emerald bays dotted with limestone karsts. In just two weeks, you can journey through this tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and flavors, capturing the true spirit of the country.

This 14-day Vietnam itinerary balances adventure and leisure, guiding first-time visitors, culture lovers, and scenic explorers from North to South Vietnam. Expect cultural immersion, breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and a few luxurious touches along the way.

Snapshot: Vietnam 2-Week Itinerary at a Glance

Here’s a quick look at how your 14 days in Vietnam can unfold:

👉 Travel tip: The ideal route is North to South (Hanoi → Ho Chi Minh City). This allows you to gradually transition from cool highlands to tropical river life, making the most of Vietnam’s diverse climates and cultures.

Northern Vietnam – Cultural Heritage & Mountain Majesty (Days 1–6)

Day 1 – Hanoi Arrival & Evening Street Food Tour

Touch down in Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, and ease into your adventure. After checking into a boutique hotel in the Old Quarter, dive straight into Hanoi’s buzzing food scene. Taste bun cha, pho, and egg coffee on a guided evening street food tour — the perfect welcome to Vietnam.

Day 2 – Hanoi City Sights

Explore Hanoi’s cultural heart. Highlights include:

• Hoan Kiem Lake – the city’s most iconic landmark.

• Temple of Literature – Vietnam’s first university, a peaceful spot full of history.

• Old Quarter – maze-like streets alive with local shops and colonial architecture.

Optional: Enjoy a traditional water puppet show before dinner.

Day 3 – Journey to Ha Giang

Embark on the drive north to Ha Giang, the gateway to Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes. Stay in an ethnic Tay or Dao homestay for authentic cultural immersion.

Day 4 – Ha Giang Loop (Quan Ba – Yen Minh)

Ride or drive through the Heaven’s Gate Pass, admire the Twin Mountains, and pass vibrant villages where locals wear traditional dress.

Day 5 – Ha Giang Loop (Dong Van – Ma Pi Leng Pass)

This is the crown jewel of the loop. The Ma Pi Leng Pass offers jaw-dropping views of limestone peaks plunging into the emerald Nho Que River. Overnight in Dong Van, a heritage town with French-era architecture.

Day 6 – Return to Hanoi & Transfer South

Head back to Hanoi, then catch the overnight train to Hue or a quick domestic flight to Da Nang, ready to explore Central Vietnam.

Central Vietnam – Ancient Towns & Coastline Charm (Days 7–10)

Day 7 – Hue Imperial City & Perfume River

Explore Vietnam’s former royal capital. Wander the Imperial Citadel, cruise the Perfume River, and visit Thien Mu Pagoda. Hue is also known for its imperial cuisine — don’t miss a royal banquet dinner.

Day 8 – Hai Van Pass → Hoi An Lantern Night

Drive the legendary Hai Van Pass, one of the world’s most scenic coastal roads. Arrive in Hoi An just in time for its magical lantern-lit evening.

Day 9 – Hoi An Ancient Town & Countryside Cycling

Discover Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its Japanese Covered Bridge, tailor shops, and riverside cafes. In the afternoon, cycle through rice paddies and fishing villages for a glimpse of local life.

Day 10 – My Son Sanctuary & Beach Relaxation

Take a morning trip to My Son Sanctuary, Vietnam’s Angkor Wat–like Cham ruins. Spend the afternoon unwinding on An Bang or Cua Dai Beach.

Southern Vietnam – Urban Energy & River Life (Days 11–14)

Day 11 – Ho Chi Minh City Highlights

Fly to Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). Visit colonial landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office, and Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs.

Day 12 – Cu Chi Tunnels

Step into Vietnam’s wartime history at the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network used during the Vietnam War. Explore tunnels, bunkers, and trapdoors with a knowledgeable guide.

Day 13 – Mekong Delta Adventure

Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, known as the “Rice Bowl of Vietnam.” Glide past floating markets, visit coconut candy workshops, and enjoy lunch in a lush orchard.

Day 14 – Departure

Spend your final hours shopping for handicrafts or enjoying a rooftop brunch before heading to the airport.

Optional Experiences to Deepen the Journey

• Ha Long Bay Cruise (2D1N): Inserted after Hanoi, a luxury overnight cruise lets you kayak between limestone karsts and enjoy seafood dinners on deck.

• Sapa Trekking: Add 2–3 days before Ha Giang for iconic rice terraces and hill-tribe markets.

• Phu Quoc Island: After HCMC, unwind on this tropical island with luxury resorts and pristine beaches.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable two-week journey through Vietnam, keep these essential tips in mind:

Best Time to Visit

• North (Hanoi, Ha Giang, Sapa, Ha Long Bay): September–November and March–May are best for cool, dry weather.

• Central (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An): February–April for sunny days before the summer heat.

• South (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): December–April for dry season travel.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Most travelers can apply for a Vietnam eVisa online, valid for 30 days and accepted at major airports and land borders. Always check the latest updates before traveling.

Packing Essentials

Vietnam spans multiple climates, so pack accordingly:

• Light, breathable clothing for Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta.

• A warm jacket and layers for cooler nights in Ha Giang or Sapa.

• Comfortable walking shoes for city tours and trekking.

• Swimwear for Ha Long Bay and Phu Quoc.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs to enrich your travel experience:

• Dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites.

• Remove shoes before entering homes and pagodas.

• Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases (“xin chào” for hello, “cảm ơn” for thank you) to connect warmly with locals.

Currency & Payments

Vietnam’s currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). While credit cards are accepted in hotels and upscale restaurants, carry cash for street food, taxis, and local shops.

Why Travel with Ftrip Vietnam

Planning two weeks in Vietnam can feel overwhelming, but with Ftrip Vietnam, every detail is taken care of so you can focus on enjoying the journey.

• Custom Itineraries – Whether you want a classic North-to-South route or themed trips (luxury escapes, cultural deep-dives, or adventure tours), Ftrip tailors every itinerary to your style and budget.

• Local Expertise – Travel with guides who speak local dialects, know hidden gems, and share cultural stories that bring Vietnam’s history and traditions to life.

• Exclusive Access – Stay in authentic ethnic homestays in Ha Giang, sail on private Ha Long cruises, and dine at handpicked restaurants for unforgettable culinary experiences.

• Comfort & Safety – Enjoy private transfers, carefully vetted hotels, and 24/7 concierge support for complete peace of mind.

With Ftrip Vietnam, your 2-week adventure isn’t just a holiday — it’s a seamless, immersive journey into the heart of Vietnam.

Sample Cost Guide for 2 Weeks in Vietnam

• Budget: $900–$1,200 per person (hostels, public transport, group tours).

• Mid-range: $1,500–$2,200 per person (boutique hotels, private transfers, guided tours).

• Luxury: $3,000–$5,000+ per person (5-star hotels, private cruises, exclusive experiences).

👉 Save on meals by eating at local eateries. Splurge on overnight cruises and guided excursions.

Final Thoughts & Booking Advice

Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to capture Vietnam’s essence — from Hanoi’s charm to Ha Giang’s raw beauty, from Hoi An’s ancient streets to the Mekong’s waterways. With the right planning, you’ll experience a journey full of culture, landscapes, and unforgettable memories.

✨ Ready to explore Vietnam in style? Let Ftrip Vietnam craft your personalized 2-week adventure — blending authentic experiences with comfort, safety, and expert guidance.