If you are choosing an exclusive long-term or short-term Vietnam Itinerary, there are many famous places to visit and interesting activities waiting for you. The following travel itineraries of Ftrip are the best choices for you. You can read more in the Vietnam travel guide with the list of Vietnam 12 day itinerary, Vietnam 10 day itinerary, Vietnam itinerary 1 month and Vietnam 1 week itinerary.
Vietnam itinerary – how many days is enough for Vietnam?
No matter how much time you have, don’t worry, we have a schedule ready for your trip. Whether you want to explore Vietnam in 6 days or 9 days, we have the most outstanding places according to each area you want to visit. Short Vietnam itinerary focuses on exploring one region of Vietnam.
And if you have 2 weeks to 3 weeks towards Vietnam, Amazing! Follow our ultimate Vietnam 3 weeks below and you can add, remove or edit the places you want to visit during the trip.
| 3 week | 1 week | 14 days | 9 days | 6 days | |
| Hanoi | X | X | X | X | X |
| Mai Chau | X | ||||
| Sapa | X | X | |||
| Halong Bay | X | X | X | X | X |
| Bai Tu Long Bay | X | ||||
| Ninh Binh | X | X | |||
| Hue | X | ||||
| Da Nang | X | X | X | ||
| Hoi An | X | X | |||
| Cham Island | X | ||||
| Nha Trang | X | X | |||
| Mui Ne | X | ||||
| Ho Chi Minh City | X | X | X | X | X |
| Cu Chi | X | X | |||
| Mekong Delta | X | X |
Vietnam itinerary #1: The ultimate 3-week 2023
Highlight 3 week Vietnam itinerary:
| DAY | HIGHLIGHTS | OVERNIGHT |
| Day 1 – 3 | Welcome Hanoi | Hanoi |
| Day 4 – 6 | Sapa | Sapa |
| Day 7 | Hanoi | Hanoi |
| Day 8 | Halong Bay | Hanoi |
| Day 9 – 10 | Ninh Binh | Ninh Binh |
| Day 11 -12 | Hue | Da Nang |
| Day 13 – 15 | Da Nang – Hoi An | Da Nang |
| Day 16 – 17 | Nha Trang | Nha Trang |
| Day 18 – 19 | Mui Ne | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Day 20 – 21 | Ho Chi Minh City |
Day 1 – 3: Welcome Hanoi
Right after landing in Vietnam, move on the route to the Old Quarter. In Hanoi Old Quarter & 36 Streets, you will admire the ancient features and bustling atmosphere here with diverse trading activities of different items. Visitors will have from one to three days in Hanoi to visit exciting places.
On the second morning, try the feeling of wandering around Hoan Kiem Lake to both listen to the historical stories here and directly enjoy the excitement of the local culture. An experience not to be missed in Hanoi is crossing the street to the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum when the sun rises. Then, tourists can treat themself to a hot bowl of Pho – The most famous dish that sticks to Vietnam globally.
The hot sun in the afternoon can tire you; you can visit the famous Hanoi Train Street to get the most pleasing egg coffee in Hanoi and dive into the fantastic taste of this specialty.
When the night falls, get a ticket to the water puppet show at Thang Long Theatre. Then, have Bun Cha for dinner.
For the last day, stroll around Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi’s largest indoor market. Or, visit Vietnam Women’s Museum, get by Tran Quoc Toan pagoda, and Hoa Lo Prison. About the day’s meal, you can choose between famous dishes such as Banh Cuon, Banh Mi, Bun Dau and enjoy the sweet “Cốm.” For a nightlife experience, head to beer corner and sip Bia Hoi, refreshed daily by locals.
Hanoi’s tour options include the Lotte Hanoi Sky observatory, Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam, and One Pillar Pagoda.
Where to stay in Hanoi: You should stay right in the Old Quarter for easy access to famous tourist attractions.
Day 4 – 6: Sapa
On the 4th day, you will arrive at one of the best places to visit in Vietnam and an incredibly wonderful place that is Sapa. The trails here are an opportunity for those who want to trekking through tribal villages in Sapa.
Ethnic minorities inhabit the Sapa area. You can go hiking to visit the small villages between the mountains and terraces, blending with the colors of the golden fields and surrounding jungles. In particular, visiting Cat Cat village or Ta Phin is recommended.
A place associated with Sapa that tourists should also visit is Fansipan, the highest peak in Southeast Asia.
Attention, you should prepare cash because there will be few places to withdraw money in Sapa!
Where to stay in Sapa: Instead of staying at a hotel, in this area, visitors can stay in a local homestay and have the closest contact with the daily life experience in this northern mountainous region.
Day 7: Hanoi to Halong Bay
On the 7th day, return to Hanoi to prepare for the trip to Halong Bay. Have some rest in the old town of Vietnam. On the next day, visitors will admire the limestone mountains on the clear water. Your trip to northern Vietnam will only be complete with conquering Halong Bay!
Day 8: Halong Bay
This is a dream place for those who love outdoor activities: kayaking, snorkeling, night squid fishing, and cave exploration. There is so much to do around this UNESCO World Heritage Site!
First, enjoy the cruise before doing the best things in Halong Bay. Admire thousands of towering limestone, recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site.
Next, take some time to visit the natural wonder – Sung Sot cave. Afterward, stop by Ba Hang Fishing Village to see the rhythm of daily life unfold on the water. Remember to enjoy seafood from this beautiful area.
Day 9 – 10: Ninh Binh
Then you will go to Ninh Binh to visit Tràng An Landscape Complex– A Unesco World Heritage Site.
Briefly about Ninh Binh, This place is considered Ha Long Bay on land with natural flavors that always attract people along the way.
Tràng An Landscape Complex has many areas of rivers, caves, historical relics associated with 4 ancient dynasties in Vietnam, and other landscapes such as the Thung Nham bird garden, and Hoa Lu special-use forest. It is such a spectacular destination that visitors should list it in their Vietnam itinerary.
Day 11 -12: Hue
On the 11th day, visitors will have the opportunity to visit the Imperial Citadel and the outskirts of Hue and enjoy the typical cuisine here.
Hue was the ancient capital where the Nguyen dynasty ruled the country for 143 years. Until the last emperor, Bao Dai abdicated, Vietnam ended the feudal period ultimately.
During the American War, Hue was the site that suffered much damage and was almost destroyed. Fortunately, we can still see history through the impressive architecture here—especially the area of Hue Citadel, the most powerful place of a hundred years ago. After staying overnight in Hue, visit the Old City with its beautiful temples and the Royal Palace.
Hue is also known for its elaborate and meticulously carved tombs of ancient Emperors, such as the Tu Duc Tomb, or visiting Tu Hieu Pagoda, dating back to 1843.
One of the things you should do in Hue is trying the famous Bun Bo Hue, a local dish with noodles and beef. The dish’s taste is enhanced when you add fragrant chili oil and a small piece of lemon.
Where to stay in Hue: Spend your night at Hue. The following day, move to Da Nang – Hoi An. One favorite road from Hue to Da Nang is Hai Van road. Take this one of the best road trips in Vietnam to enter Da Nang. Surely you will not be able to take your eyes off the natural landscape here!
Day 13 – 15: Da Nang – Hoi An
Da Nang and Hoi An are the locations for the next 3 days in Vietnam itinerary. Visitors have the opportunity to see and immerse themselves in the water at the beautiful beaches in Da Nang.
Enjoy Da Nang Quang noodles for breakfast. Your next point in the Vietnam itinerary is Ba Na Hills, 25km from the city center. This is an entertainment complex where you could stay all day and still not enjoy it all! Highlight during the trip is the Golden Bridge, supported by two giant hands.
Between Da Nang and Hoi An is the Marble Mountains. You can move from Da Nang to Hoi An by motorbike. It is best to depart early in the morning when the bright noonday sun has not yet woken up. When you arrive in Hoi An, you should quench your thirst with a glass of cool herbal Mot. This place will bring visitors an ancient architectural scene of reminiscence and nostalgia.
Take a little nap before visiting the wooden Japanese Covered Bridge from the 18th Century, and then eat sweet soup at small stalls in Hoi An to wait for the night to fall. That is the time when the lanterns in Hoi An shine the brightest.
Where to stay in Hoi An: Go into your sleep in a cozy resort in Hoi An, then get back to Da Nang the following morning for the flight to Nha Trang. Alternatively, you can go straight from Hoi An to Nha Trang by bus.
Day 16 – 17: Nha Trang
From the 16th to the 17th, visitors will visit the beautiful coastal city of Nha Trang with desirable entertainment activities. Nha Trang is one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam. This area stands out most regarding white sand beaches, islands, and crystal clear waters with rich marine life. This place is suitable for honeymoon trips and family trips.
When sunset falls on Nha Trang beach, you can sit next to your family to watch the sun gradually descend or enjoy a romantic dinner with your loved one with a dreamy view next to the beach.
Where to stay in Nha Trang: Relax in luxury hotels near the beach. On the next day, Your Vietnam itinerary will continue to Mui Ne.
Day 18 – 19: Mui Ne
The subsequent famous tourist destination is Mui Ne. Mui Ne is known for its resorts, restaurants, and fun activities in the dunes.
Visitors can participate in watersports here. Or take a few leisurely days to wander around the shopping areas, restaurants, and coffee shops.
Suppose the previous activities have not been able to reduce your energy. Drop by the famous Mui Ne dunes to enjoy a breathtaking sight and experience the thrill of skateboarding on the sand.
Day 20 – 21: Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is the final destination on thí Vietnam itinerary. Visitors will not be able to miss attractions such as the Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, etc. At the same time, you can try Vietnam must try food from Saigon like Banh Xeo, Banh Mi, Com Tam.
Saigon has many street snacks you should take advantage of, like Banh Trang Tron, Bo Bia, and Ca Vien Chien. Grab a snack and save a spot in Ho Con Rua. You will sense the bustling atmosphere here and feel like you are becoming a true Saigonese.
Vietnam Itinerary #2: Vietnam 1 week for the first time
| DAY | HIGHLIGHTS | OVERNIGHT |
| Day 1 | Hanoi | Hanoi |
| Day 2 | Hanoi | Hanoi |
| Day 3 | Halong Bay | Halong Bay |
| Day 4 | Da Nang | Da Nang |
| Day 5 | Da Nang | Da Nang |
| Day 6 | Ho Chi Minh City | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Day 7 | Cu Chi |
Vietnam 1 week for the first time is a miniature version of Vietnam’s one-month itinerary scheduled so that new travelers can enjoy a perfect trip from north to south of Vietnam.
Day 1-2: You have ready for the Vietnam itinerary in Vietnam. Put your luggage in the hotel and head to the Old Quarter to get something to eat. They have the most delicious and beautiful dishes here.
As recommended above, Hanoi street specialties you should try include Pho, Banh Mi, Bun Cha, Bun Dau Mam Tom, Cha Ca, etc.
You can go to the Ho Chi Minh Museum to learn about the struggles that Vietnam fought during the historical period. This is also one of the museums that keep a comprehensive description of Ho Chi Minh’s life.
Another site related to war vestiges is Hoa Lo Prison. During the war in Vietnam, this building was used to hold political prisoners—a place for you to see Vietnam’s grim past. In the evening, visit the weekend night market in Hanoi, with stalls selling clothes, fashion jewelry, and snacks.
Day 3: Your time in Halong Bay could be much better. You only have one day to photograph the majestic mountains here, visit caves and pristine shores, and relax on the yacht.
Day 4-5: Da Nang is a famous tourist city with foreigners because of its friendly people, modern city, and wide variety of entertainment and sightseeing. Continue your Vietnam itinerary at Ngu Hanh Son, a cluster of five limestone hills of Da Nang city. In this area, visitors can also see Buddhist holy sites and catch the whole scene of My Khe beach from above. At night, don’t forget to visit the famous Dragon Bridge with its fancy design of a dragon capable of spitting water and fire.
Day 6: Immediately visit Ben Thanh Market, a large market bearing the symbol of the center of Ho Chi Minh City. You can find a wide range of offers, from Vietnamese handicrafts and traditional costumes to branded goods, specialty roasted coffee, and delicious meals.
Day 7: Wake up early, and spend the last morning of the Vietnam itinerary visiting Cu Chi Tunnels. This can be called the roof of many soldiers when they spend most of their time in the bunker. You can experience the feeling of crawling into the tunnels here. The space will be undersized, so if you have health problems, consider observing and listening to the inspirational story behind it.
Vietnam itinerary #3: Vietnam 14 days from South to North
Highlight 2 weeks Vietnam itinerary:
| DAY | HIGHLIGHTS | OVERNIGHT |
| Day 1 | Ho Chi Minh City | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Day 2 | Cu Chi Tunnels | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Day 3 | Mekong Delta | Can Tho |
| Day 4-5 | Nha Trang | Nha Trang |
| Day 6 | Da Nang | Da Nang |
| Day 7 | Hoi An | Hoi An |
| Day 8 | Cham Island | Hoi An |
| Day 9-10 | Hanoi | Hanoi |
| Day 10-11 | Halong Bay | Hanoi |
| Day 12-13 | Sapa | Sapa |
| Day 14 | Ha Noi |
In contrast to a 3-week Vietnam itinerary, Vietnam 14 days itinerary will start from the South to the North. Day 1 cruise to Ho Chi Minh City. This is the busiest city with famous places: Central Post Office, Ben Thanh Market,…
Visitors will visit Cu Chi tunnels on day 2. Where you can hardly imagine the old army of Vietnam living underground in this network of tunnels. The simple rustic dishes are delicious sugared cassava or salted peanuts that have attracted travelers to stay. Next, visitors will set foot in the Mekong Delta. You will see the vast rice fields and enjoy the typical food here.
In the next 2 days, we will set foot in the central city of Nha Trang. This is the place that owns the beautiful beaches in Vietnam and visits the ruins of the Kingdom of Champa, go for a walk to My Son holy land,… On the 6th day, you will come to the city with equally beautiful beaches next to it is Da Nang. Golden Bridge & Ba Na Hills are places visitors cannot miss.
Day 7 let’s go to the former harbor town – Hoi An. Visitors can drop flower lights on a boat floating in the middle of the river or enjoy food in Hoi An. Next Cu Lao Cham is a daily destination of Hoi An. You will have the opportunity to participate in interesting activities such as kayaking, and eating seafood,…
Coming to Hanoi capital on day 9. Visitors can visit Hoan Kiem Lake in the center and enjoy Hanoi Street Food Tour during the best time to visit Vietnam. You will have two days to visit the large and small limestone mountains in Halong Bay. The last days with Sapa – a small town in the mountains and conquering Fansipan peak. End the journey in Hanoi city and enjoy the cultural cuisine here.
Vietnam itinerary #4: Highlights of the Region in 9 days
Highlights 9 days in Vietnam Itinerary:
| DAY | HIGHLIGHTS | OVERNIGHT |
| Day 1 | Landing In Hanoi | Hanoi |
| Day 2 | A Tour Around Hanoi City | Hanoi |
| Day 3 | Explore Mai Chau – Pu Luong | Pu Luong |
| Day 4 | Return To Hanoi | Hanoi |
| Day 5 | Magnificent Halong Bay | Halong Bay |
| Day 6 | Bai Tu Long Bay | Hanoi |
| Day 7 | Welcome To Ho Chi Minh City | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Day 8 | Bustling City Tour | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Day 9 | Departure |
“Where to visit in Vietnam for the first time?”. Landed in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam after a long flight. Visitors can visit the places here. At the same time, you can enjoy the famous Pho, Bun Cha, Bun Dau Mam Tom in Vietnam or it is all about coffee with sip a of delicious egg coffee Hanoi.
On the second day, start the tour around Hanoi city at Uncle Ho’s Mausoleum, Hoan Kiem lake, traditional market,… Next day, you will move to Mai Chau – Pu Luong. You will see the community life of the Thai people here with verdant valleys. Also, see the rice terraces and villages along the way.
Return to Hanoi on the 4th day and depart for Halong Bay Vietnam holiday packages on the 5th. Arrive in the land of limestone mountains jutting into the sea and majestic natural scenery. Tourists start sailing to Bai Tu Long Bay. Here, locals will row you on a boat to go sightseeing or swim in the clear blue sea.
On the 7th day, you will take a flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Visitors will see a bustling metropolis combining modern and ancient. Then you will do a tour around this city with famous places. End the 9th day with breakfast in the city before heading to the airport.
Vietnam itinerary #5: Discover Vietnam in 6 days
Highlight Vietnam 6 day itinerary:
| DAY | HIGHLIGHTS | OVERNIGHT |
| Day 1 | Half-Day Around Hanoi City | Hanoi |
| Day 2 | Ninh Binh | Hanoi |
| Day 3 | Hanoi – Halong Bay | Halong Bay |
| Day 4 | Return To Hanoi | Hanoi |
| Day 5 | Mekong Delta | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Day 6 | Half – Day In Ho Chi Minh City |
You will have the first half day to take Hanoi tours. Start the visit with the best places to visit in Hanoi Vietnam like Uncle Ho’s Mausoleum and the flag-raising ceremony here. Take advantage of visiting a few places such as Turtle Tower, The Huc Bridge, Opera House, … and enjoy the famous ice cream.
Start departure on the 2nd day to Ninh Binh. Guests will take a boat to visit Tam Coc – Bich Dong and come to Bai Dinh pagoda to enjoy vegetarian food.
Day 3 return to Hanoi to prepare for the cruise to Halong Bay. Visitors will have the opportunity to take a cruise and visit the famous caves. Then come to Ho Chi Minh City to enjoy special dishes and visit famous landmarks here.
Continue the day 5 tour in the Mekong Delta. Travel by speedboat and explore local life along the river. Exciting activities take place such as boating, listening to “Don Ca Tai Tu”,… At the same time enjoy the special interest of this river region. The last day of the journey is to return to Ho Chi Minh City and take advantage of the local markets to buy souvenirs.
Frequently asked questions about Vietnam itinerary (FAQs)
How many days is enough for Vietnam?
A Vietnam itinerary of 10 days is enough for you to enjoy and fully experience the charming scene in Vietnam. You can still visit Vietnam in a shorter time (about 6 days) in the Vietnam itinerary selection in Ftrip.
How much money would you need for 2 weeks in Vietnam?
The cost of living in Vietnam is relatively affordable. However, constant travel, leisure activities, and excursions can take up most of your budget. Depending on the individual, you should set a budget goal of 600 USD to 1000 USD for a 14-day trip to Vietnam—an average of $75 per day for a mid-range experience for a Vietnam itinerary.
Above is some Vietnam itinerary that Ftrip summarizes. Hopefully, visitors will choose short or long-term tours that suit their travel plans. Let’s find out more tours at FTrip.
