Welcome to your ultimate guide for a 30-day journey through Vietnam. This itinerary focuses on four iconic destinations: the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City in the south, the historic charm of Hanoi in the north, the coastal vibes of Da Nang in the center, and the breathtaking natural wonder of Halong Bay. Vietnam offers a perfect blend of vibrant cities, rich culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, this plan has something for everyone.
Before you start, a few quick tips. The best time to visit is from November to April for milder weather, though expect some rain in the north. Pack light layers, comfortable walking shoes, and insect repellent. Use ride-sharing apps for easy transport within cities, and book domestic flights in advance for travel between regions. Visas are straightforward for most nationalities you can apply online. Budget around 50 to 100 USD per day for mid-range accommodations, meals, and activities, excluding flights.
This itinerary assumes you fly into Ho Chi Minh City and out from Hanoi. It includes rest days to avoid burnout and flexibility for weather or personal interests. Let us jump in.
Week 1: Immersing in Ho Chi Minh City (Days 1-7)
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is a dynamic metropolis where French colonial architecture meets modern skyscrapers. It is the perfect starting point to acclimate to Vietnam’s energy.
Day 1: Arrival and Orientation Land in Tan Son Nhat International Airport and transfer to your hotel in District 1, we recommend the Lotte Hotel Saigon. Tan Son Nhat International Airport is notoriously busy, to speed up the immigration process we highly suggest getting the Fast Track Service to get you through quickly. You don’t want to spend hours in immigration lines after a long flight. Spend the afternoon wandering Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs and street food like pho or banh mi. In the evening, stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street and enjoy a coffee at a rooftop cafe overlooking the Saigon River.
Day 2: Historical Sites Visit the Reunification Palace, a symbol of Vietnam’s unification. Then head to the War Remnants Museum for insights into the country’s past. Afternoon free for a cyclo tour around the city center or relaxing in Tao Dan Park.
Day 3: Cu Chi Tunnels Excursion Take a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network used during the war. Crawl through sections if you are adventurous, or just explore the exhibits. Return for dinner in Pham Ngu Lao, the backpacker district, trying grilled pork skewers.
Day 4: Food and Culture Join a street food tour to sample dishes like bun cha or fresh spring rolls. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, both architectural gems. Evening option: Catch a water puppet show at the Golden Dragon Theater.
Day 5: Mekong Delta Day Trip Head south to the Mekong Delta for a boat ride through floating markets and villages. Taste tropical fruits and coconut candy. This full-day adventure highlights rural life contrasting the urban hustle.
Day 6: Free Exploration Relax with a spa day or shop in District 3’s boutiques. Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda for a spiritual experience. Evening: Bar hop in Bui Vien Street for lively nightlife.
Day 7: Rest and Prep for Travel Use this day to recharge. Perhaps visit the Fine Arts Museum or enjoy a Vietnamese coffee workshop. In the evening, pack for your flight to Da Nang tomorrow.
Week 2: Coastal Bliss in Da Nang (Days 8-14)
Fly to Da Nang (about 1.5 hours), a laid-back city with golden beaches and modern bridges. It serves as a gateway to nearby Hoi An and My Son ruins. If you are interested in having tailor made clothes while you are in this area be sure to watch the video below to see what is possible. We had clothes made and it was an fantastic experience. We share the contact info for our tailor in the description of the video.
Day 8: Arrival and Beaches Check into your hotel there are many great ones to choose from either in the city or beachfront. We love the Melia VinPearl Danang Riverfront with great river views and quite surroundings. You can easily use the Grab app to get a car to the beach, it’s a short ride. Spend the day swimming or sunbathing. Evening: Walk the Dragon Bridge, which breathes fire on weekends.
Day 9: Marble Mountains and Lady Buddha Explore the Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone hills with caves and pagodas. Climb for panoramic views, then visit the towering Lady Buddha statue at Linh Ung Pagoda.
Day 10: Hoi An Ancient Town Take a short drive to Hoi An, a UNESCO site with lantern-lit streets. Wander the old quarter, tailor a custom outfit, and cruise the Thu Bon River at sunset.
Day 11: My Son Sanctuary Visit the ancient Cham ruins of My Son, surrounded by jungle. Learn about Hindu temples and watch a traditional dance performance. Afternoon back in Da Nang for seafood dinner.
Day 12: Ba Na Hills Adventure Ride the world’s longest cable car to Ba Na Hills. Explore the Fantasy Park, Golden Bridge held by giant hands, and French village replica. It is a fun, whimsical day.
Day 13: Beach Relaxation and Cuisine Lounge on Non Nuoc Beach or try surfing. Join a cooking class to make cao lau noodles. Evening: Enjoy the Han River cruise with dinner.
Day 14: Free Day and Travel Prep Optional: Visit the Cham Museum for artifacts. Relax and prepare for your flight to Hanoi tomorrow.
Week 3: Discovering Hanoi (Days 15-21)
Fly to Hanoi (about 1.5 hours), the capital known for its chaotic charm, French influences, and thousand-year history.
Day 15: Arrival and Old Quarter Settle in the Old Quarter at the beautiful Hanoian Central Hotel and Spa. Explore narrow streets filled with shops and cafes. Try egg coffee at a hidden spot and watch the train street spectacle.
Day 16: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temples Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (closed Mondays and Fridays), One Pillar Pagoda, and Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. Afternoon: Stroll Hoan Kiem Lake.
Day 17: Water Puppetry and Street Food See a traditional water puppet show. Then embark on a food tour: bun cha, pho, and banh cuon. Evening in Ta Hien Street for beer and people-watching.
Day 18: Day Trip to Ninh Binh Head to Ninh Binh for boat rides through Tam Coc’s karst landscapes, often called inland Halong Bay. Climb Hang Mua for views.
Day 19: Museums and Markets Explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology for cultural insights. Shop at Dong Xuan Market for bargains. Afternoon free for a cyclo ride.
Day 20: Cooking and Culture Take a cooking class in a local home. Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake. Evening: Attend a performance at the Hanoi Opera House if available.
Day 21: Rest Day Relax with a spa treatment or cafe hopping. Prepare for Halong Bay.
Week 4: Halong Bay and Hanoi Wrap-Up (Days 22-30)
Days 22-24: Halong Bay Cruise Drive or bus to Halong Bay (about 2.5 hours). Board a cruise for two nights. Kayak through emerald waters, visit caves like Sung Sot, and swim in secluded bays. Enjoy onboard meals and sunrise tai chi.
Day 25: Return to Hanoi Back in Hanoi, unwind. Visit the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural or explore hidden alleys.
Day 26: Perfume Pagoda Excursion Take a day trip to Perfume Pagoda, involving a boat ride and hike to mountain temples.
Day 27: Shopping and Souvenirs Hunt for silk scarves, lacquerware, and coffee in the Old Quarter. Visit weekend night markets if timing aligns.
Day 28: Free Exploration Optional: Bike around West Lake or visit a contemporary art gallery. Reflect on your trip.
Day 29: Culinary Farewell Indulge in a fancy Vietnamese fusion dinner. Pack and prepare for departure.
Day 30: Departure Transfer to Noi Bai Airport. If your flight is later, squeeze in last-minute sights.
This itinerary balances adventure, culture, and relaxation for an unforgettable month in Vietnam. Adjust based on your pace or interests, and always respect local customs. Safe travels!
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