7-Day Vietnam Itinerary: An Epic Journey Under a Week

Craving an adventure in Southeast Asia but short on time? This 7-day Vietnam itinerary packs an incredible amount into one week, leaving you with unforgettable memories and a desire to return for more. From bustling cities to serene landscapes, you’ll experience the best of Vietnam in just a few days.

1. Discover Vietnam’s North: Hanoi – Sapa – Halong Bay – Ninh Binh Itinerary

Perfect for: Travelers arriving and departing from Hanoi Airport, seeking a comprehensive exploration of Northern Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and rich culture

Hanoi’s Strain Street: Where the aroma of street food meets the pulse of city life

Highlights:

• Hanoi: Immerse yourself in the bustling capital, exploring the ancient Old Quarter, experiencing the vibrant street life, and savoring delicious local cuisine.
• Sapa: Escape to the breathtaking Sapa Valley, surrounded by stunning rice terraces and towering mountain peaks. Trek through villages, meet local ethnic minorities, and soak in the pristine natural beauty.
• Halong Bay: Cruise through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, marveling at towering limestone karsts rising from the emerald waters. Enjoy kayaking, swimming, and a magical sunset over the bay.
• Ninh Binh: Explore the captivating landscape of Ninh Binh, nicknamed “Ha Long Bay on Land,” featuring mesmerizing rice paddies, limestone caves, and ancient temples.

Kayaking through Halong Bay: Paddling amidst emerald waters and limestone giants.

Suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi & City Exploration

Day 2: Ninh Binh with Trang An sampan boat & Bai Dinh pagoda

Day 3: Halong bay: Kayaking & Swimming. Overnight on cruise

Day 3: Halong bay – Hanoi – Overnight bus/train to Sapa

Day 4: Sapa: Trekking to village & overnight at homestay

Day 5: Sapa: Trekking

Day 6: Sapa: Fansipan Mt & back to Hanoi

Day 7: Hanoi departure

Sapa’s rice terraces: A tapestry of emerald green woven across the mountainside

2. Unforgettable Vietnam: Hanoi – Halong Bay – Da Nang – Hoi An Itinerary

Perfect for: Travelers arriving in Hanoi and departing from Da Nang Airport, seeking a captivating blend of bustling cities, breathtaking landscapes, and charming coastal towns.

Bà Nà Hills: A surreal escape into a world of French charm and breathtaking mountain views

Highlights:

• Hanoi: Explore the dynamic capital city, discover its rich history in the Old Quarter, witness vibrant street life, and savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
• Halong Bay: Cruise through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, marveling at towering limestone karsts rising from the emerald waters. Enjoy kayaking, swimming, and a magical sunset over the bay.
• Da Nang: Experience the modern charm of Da Nang, a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, and delicious street food.
• Hoi An: Explore the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its charming architecture, bustling markets, basket boat and tailor shops.

The Golden Bridge: A majestic hand reaching across the clouds, connecting earth and sky

Suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi & City Exploration

Day 2: Hanoi – Halong Bay: Scenic Journey & Cruise

Day 3: Halong Bay Exploration & Farewell

Day 4: Hanoi – Da Nang: Scenic Flight & Coastal Charm

Day 5: Da Nang -Hoi an: Ancient Town & Tailor Shops

Day 6: Hoi An Exploration & Tailor Experience

Day 7: Hoi An – Da Nang Airport Departure

This itinerary can be customized to fit your interests and budget. Consider adding:

• A visit to My Son Sanctuary near Hoi An, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• A trek to Ba Na Hills near Da Nang for stunning mountain views and unique architecture.
• A cooking class in Hoi An to learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine.
• A relaxing day at the beaches of Da Nang, such as Non Nuoc Beach or My Khe Beach.
• A visit to the Marble Mountains near Da Nang for stunning cave exploration and panoramic views.

With its blend of history, culture, stunning landscapes, and coastal charm, this 7-day itinerary will offer you a memorable journey through the best of Vietnam.

Hoi An Town: A timeless tapestry of ancient charm, vibrant lanterns, and tailor-made memories.

3. Vietnam’s North to South: Hanoi – Halong Bay – Mekong Delta – Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary

Perfect for: Travelers arriving in Hanoi and departing from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) Airport, wanting to experience Vietnam’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture from north to south.

Highlights:

• Hanoi: Immerse yourself in the bustling capital city, discovering its ancient Old Quarter, experiencing vibrant street life, and savoring authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
• Halong Bay: Cruise through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, marveling at towering limestone karsts rising from the emerald waters. Enjoy kayaking, swimming, and a magical sunset over the bay.
• Mekong Delta: Explore the lush and fertile Mekong Delta, a network of waterways and islands teeming with life. Enjoy boat trips, visit local markets, and experience the unique culture of the region.
• Ho Chi Minh City: Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), explore its historic landmarks, bustling markets, and indulge in the city’s diverse culinary scene.
• Cu Chi tunnel: complex features a museum showcasing artifacts, photographs, and information about the history of the war and the role of the tunnels in resistance.

Suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi & City Exploration

Day 2: Hanoi – Halong Bay: Scenic Journey & Cruise

Day 3: Halong Bay Exploration & Farewell

Day 4: Hanoi – Hochiminh airport: Domesitc Flight

Day 5: Cu Chi tunnel & City tour

Day 6: Mekong Delta: River Life

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City & Departure

This itinerary can be customized to fit your interests and budget. Consider adding:

• A cooking class in Ho Chi Minh City to learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine.
• A visit to the Mekong Delta’s Cai Rang Floating Market, a vibrant hub of commerce on the water.
• A day trip to the beautiful beaches of Mui Ne or Phu Quoc Island.
• A visit to the Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh for a unique religious experience.