Vietnam is a beautiful country filled with natural beauty, bustling cities, and some of the best food in the world! This country has a lot to do and see and this travel guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit.
Explore the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, brimming with historical landmarks and delectable cuisine. From the iconic Independence Palace to the tranquil waters of the Mekong Delta, each day promises a new adventure. Then, venture north to the charming capital of Hanoi, where centuries-old pagodas and bustling markets await. Finally, set sail to the breathtaking landscapes of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its emerald waters and towering limestone cliffs.
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City
Today is your arrival day. After a long flight, take it easy. Have some drinks and listen to live performances at EON Heli Bar from the 52nd floor of Saigon Skydeck at Bitexco Financial Tower.
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City
- Morning:
- Start your day with some banh mi and Vietnamese coffee at Chi Hoa.
- Discover Notre Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office with charming colonial architecture. You can write a letter or a card and send it back home as a souvenir.
- Afternoon:
- Dine at Quan An Ngon restaurant, offering authentic Vietnamese cuisine opposite the Independence Palace.
- Visit Independence Palace (Reunification Palace) and explore its underground bunker.
- Wander through Ben Thanh Market, the bustling central street market.
Take a coffee break at Cong Caphe. Try their coconut milk coffee shake!
- Evening:
- Enjoy delicious dishes at SH Garden, a rooftop restaurant with a view over Ho Chi Minh Square.
Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City
- Morning:
- Go on a Vespa tour of the city.
- Afternoon:
- Dine at Secret Garden and discover new flavors.
- Explore Emperor Jade Pagoda, a beautiful Taoist temple.
- Visit City Hall and Ho Chi Minh Square for a glimpse of the city’s governmental and historical landmarks.
- Pamper yourself with some full body massage spa.
- Evening:
- Enjoy an evening at AIR Saigon rooftop bar with beautiful panoramic views of downtown Saigon.
Day 4: Day Trip
Consider a Mekong Delta Boat tour for a unique perspective on local life. Or take a day trip to the nearby beach town and relax.
Day 5: Travel to Hanoi
- Morning:
- Get on a local flight from from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi.
- Afternoon:
- Immerse yourself in the charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and wander around the narrow streets.
- Visit Ngoc Son Temple and take a peaceful stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake.
- Evening:
- Experience a live performance at either the Hanoi Opera House or the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater.
- Enjoy a traditional bowl of pho for dinner, a must-try dish originating from northern Vietnam. (We liked the Nam Gau Pho at Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su.)
- Rest up for an early start the next day to Halong Bay.
Day 6: Halong Bay
- Book a day tour to Ha Long Bay in advance. You can also do a multiple day boat tour if you have more time.
- Spend the day cruising among the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters of Halong Bay.
- Explore Dong Thien Cung Limestone Cave.
- Return to Hanoi in the evening, concluding your unforgettable Vietnamese adventure.
Day 7: Hanoi to Home
- Explore more of Hanoi’s attractions or indulge in some shopping before your departure.
You can stay longer and explore other parts of Vietnam or combine it with another Southeast Asian country for a longer adventure.
