Vietnam is a captivating country, full of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil beauty of Halong Bay, and from the cultural charm of Hoi An to the natural wonders of Sapa, Vietnam offers diverse experiences that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you have two weeks or three, this itinerary will guide you through the best places to visit in Vietnam. If youโre wondering where to go in Vietnam, here are the must-visit places and a suggested Vietnam trip itinerary for your next visit.
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Vietnam Trip Itineraryย
This blog post will outline some of the best locations in Vietnam. Towards the end of the post, youโll find a suggested itinerary for Vietnam as well.
Best Places in Vietnam
There are many amazing places to visit in Vietnam. This post will focus on some of the best locations that can be visited during a two to three-week trip. The country is large and not every destination is covered, however, the suggested Vietnam trip itinerary covers the must-see cities.
Hanoi
Start your adventure in Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam. With its mix of ancient temples, modern skyscrapers, and food stalls serving delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone. This is an ideal beginning or end point for your Vietnam trip itinerary.ย
Things to do in Hanoi
Temple of Literature: This stunning temple complex features beautiful courtyards, ancient trees, and traditional Vietnamese architecture. Wander through its serene gardens and soak in the rich history of Vietnam’s past.
Hanoi Train Street: Hanoi Train Street offers a unique experience where you can watch a train pass just inches away from homes and cafes. Grab a seat at one of the local cafes, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee, and feel the excitement as the train approaches.
Take a Cooking Class: Learn about traditional Vietnamese cuisine and make Vietnamese dishes with a hands-on cooking class and market tour at Rose Kitchen.
Shopping in Old Town: Old Town Hanoi is a lively maze of narrow streets filled with shops selling everything from handmade crafts to traditional silk garments. Explore Dong Xuan Market or stroll along Hang Gai Street for high-quality silk products.
The Note Coffee: The Note Coffee is a quirky, multi-story cafe covered in colorful sticky notes from visitors worldwide. This charming spot is perfect for relaxing with a cup of Vietnamese egg coffee or a refreshing iced tea.
Halong Bay
Halong Bay is located in the northern region of Vietnam about 2.5 hours from Hanoi. Itโs one of the top attractions in Vietnam and the best way to enjoy it is via a Halong Bay cruise. And you can experience Halong Bay on any budget. There are also two-day/one-night options as well as day tours.
Budget – ~$100 pp 3D/2N
Most budget Halong Bay cruises can be booked through your hostel. Dorm style rooms are standard but you can upgrade to a private room. The boat and the rooms can be a bit dated but the experience is still amazing.
Moderate – $250+ pp 3D/2N
All meals and activities are included, alcohol is extra. The rooms may be updated but the boat itself might be a bit older.ย
Luxury – $400+ pp for 3D/2N
This can be a splurge but worth every penny! All meals and activities are included, alcohol is extra. And youโll be on a newer more luxurious boat. Stellar of the Seas is a great option if you’re looking for a luxury cruise. Or opt for a 2-day tour on a 5-star cruise.
Hoi An
Hoi An is a blend of history, culture, and vibrant energy, making it one of the must visit cities in Vietnam among travelers. Itโs widely known for its beautifully preserved Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with traditional wooden houses, lantern-lit alleyways, and a mix of French colonial, and Vietnamese architecture.ย
Hoi An offers a delightful contrast to the busier cities, exuding small-town charm while still buzzing with activity. It’s famous for its tailor shops, where you can have bespoke clothing made in just a few hours. With its colorful markets, riverside cafes, and unique cultural experiences, Hoi An is a must-visit for anyone looking to soak in a town that feels both timeless and vibrant.ย
Things to do in Hoi An
Walk Around the Ancient Town: Hoi An’s Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and lantern-lit streets. Explore historic buildings, and admire the colorful lanterns. Be sure to also visit the night market. This is one of the must-see sights in Vietnam.
Get Handmade Clothing Tailored: Hoi An is famous for its tailoring shops, offering high-quality, bespoke clothing at a fraction of the price you’d pay elsewhere. The turnaround time is quick, often within 24 hours.
Make a Wish by Dropping a Lantern in the River: One of the most enchanting experiences in Hoi An is to release a lantern into the Thu Bon River.ย
Da Nang
Da Nang is a gateway to various attractions, including the โInstagram-worthyโ Sun World Ba Na Hills and the iconic Golden Hands Bridge. About 45 minutes from Da Nang, Sun World Ba Na Hills is a theme park perched atop a mountain, accessible via a scenic cable car ride. Here, you’ll find the famous Golden Hands Bridge, a pedestrian walkway held aloft by two giant stone hands, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. You can easily spend a full day enjoying the rides, games, and panoramic views. Arrange for a driver to take you to the base or join a tour to make the most of your visit.
Things to do in Da Nang
Sun World Ba Na Hills & Golden Hands Bridge
Take a cable car to the theme park atop the mountain: This cable car holds the world record for the longest non-stop single track at 5,801 meters (just over 19,000 feet), offering panoramic views of lush forests and cascading waterfalls.
Walk across the iconic Golden Hands Bridge: This stunning bridge was designed to look like a giant hand holding up a golden ribbon and offers sweeping views of the verdant mountains below. The bridge is free to walk, but entrance to the park does require a ticket.
Son Tra Peninsula
Drive up Monkey Mountain: This is the perfect spot for panoramic views! The drive up Monkey Mountain offers stunning vistas of Da Nang and the surrounding coastline.ย
Enjoy the views from Linh Ung Pagoda: This pagoda is home to a towering 200-foot statue of the Goddess of Mercy, which overlooks the sea.ย
Ninh Bihn/Tam Coc
Known for its breathtaking landscapes, Ninh Binh is often called the โHa Long Bay on land.โ This serene area is made up of lush rice paddies, winding rivers, and towering limestone cliffs. Explore the Tam Coc caves via boat, explore the scenic countryside, and discover historic temples and pagodas. It is one of the best locations in Vietnam.
Things to do in Ninh Binh
Mua Caves: Climb the 500 steps up to the top of the Mua Caves for a panoramic view of the limestone mountains and the surrounding rice fields.ย
Bich Dong Pagoda: This is a picturesque pagoda built into the side of a mountain.
Bai Dinh Pagoda: Visit the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest complex of Buddhist temples in the country. It has a 13-story stupa and hundreds of intricate Buddha statues.
Tri An: Discover the serene beauty and take in the views of the towering karst mountains. A scenic boat ride is the best way to enjoy the area.
Sapa
Sapa is famous for its rice terraces and trekking opportunities, drawing visitors to explore its natural beauty. Nestled in the mountains of northern Vietnam, Sapa is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and an authentic connection with local traditions.
Things to do in Sapa
Hiking: Trek through lush landscapes, including bamboo forests, waterfalls, and rice terraces, while visiting Hmong, Dao, and Tay villages. These treks range from easy half-day walks to multi-day hikes. Opt to trek with a local guide who will be your tour guide and arrange your stay along the trek.
Homestay: Experience local culture firsthand by staying with a family in their traditional home. Enjoy home-cooked meals, learn about local customs, and connect with your hosts.ย
Bac Ha Market: Visit the vibrant Bac Ha Market, one of the largest and most colorful markets in northern Vietnam.ย
Ban Gioc Waterfall, Cao Bangย
Ban Gioc is one of the most stunning waterfalls in Vietnam. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but worth the journey! The best time to visit Ban Gioc Waterfall is during the rainy season, from September to October when the falls are at their fullest and most powerful. However, for those interested in activities such as bamboo rafting or hiking the dry season from November to April offers calmer waters and clearer skies.
How to Get to Ban Gioc Waterfall
You can travel by bus or motorbike from Hanoi or opt for a one or two-day tour. Some Ha Giang Loop tours also include a visit to Ban Gioc Waterfall, however, the waterfall is not in the loop itself.ย
Ha Giang Loop
The Ha Giang Loop offers a journey through some of the most breathtaking scenery in northern Vietnam. Traverse winding mountain roads, pass through small villages and enjoy stunning views of lush valleys and towering peaks. Many travelers start their adventure from Ha Giang City (however there are tour options to start from Hanoi or Sapa), where they can rent a motorbike or join a guided tour.ย
The journey typically lasts two to four days, with the 3-day option allowing ample time to explore at a leisurely pace. If riding a motorbike isnโt your style, consider booking a private car transfer or bus to still experience the area’s beauty without missing out on the cultural highlights.
Dalat
Dalat is known as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its cool climate and beautiful scenery. Itโs the ideal location to escape from the heat in other Vietnamese cities. With its rolling hills, pine forests, and beautiful flower gardens, Dalat offers a serene and picturesque setting. Visitors can explore the city’s unique architecture, visit enchanting waterfalls, or enjoy outdoor activities like canyoning, hiking, and biking.ย
Things to do in Dalat
Crazy House: Explore the whimsical architectural masterpiece known as the Hang Nga Guesthouse, or “Crazy House.” Designed by architect ฤแบทng Viแปt Nga, this surreal building resembles a giant treehouse with twisting staircases and narrow bridges. Each room has a unique theme and is a must-visit for those who love a quirky stop.
Linh Phuoc Pagoda: Admire the intricate mosaic sculptures at Linh Phuoc Pagoda, a stunning temple located just outside Dalat. The pagoda is famous for its intricate design, featuring a dragon made entirely of beer bottlesย
Lang Biang Mountain: Hike to the top of Lang Biang Mountain for panoramic views of Dalat and its surrounding landscapes. This trek takes you through the forest. At the summit, youโll be rewarded with sweeping views of the city, lakes, and valleys below.
Hue
Hue is the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Itโs a city steeped in history and has grand palaces, temples, and tombs offering a glimpse of Vietnam’s royal past. Visit the Imperial Citadel, a large complex with ornate gates, palaces, and museums that tell the story of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Things to do in Hue
The Imperial Citadel: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn about the Nguyen Dynasty. Visitors can wander through the Hall of Supreme Harmony, where the emperor once held court, or walk around the gardens and see the remains of the Forbidden Purple City.
Thien Mu Pagoda:ย Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, the tallest pagoda in Vietnam. Built in 1601, this seven-story pagoda sits on a hill overlooking the Perfume River, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.ย
Hue Royal Tombs: Discover the Hue Royal Tombs, the final resting places of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors.ย
Mekong Delta
Discover the vibrant and lush landscapes of the Mekong Delta. The delta is known for its floating markets and traditional villages. You can opt to take a multi-day boat tour visiting floating markets, small villages, temples, and more. For those short on time, a day tour from Ho Chi Minh City offers a taste of the Mekong Delta’s unique culture.
Ho Chi Minh City
End your trip in Ho Chi Minh City, a sprawling metropolis that blends the old and the new. Formerly known as Saigon, the city offers a mix of colonial architecture, traditional markets, and modern skyscrapers. Depending on your interest you can spend anywhere from one to three days in the city.ย
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon: This French colonial-era cathedral is one of the most visited landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City. Admire its intricate detailing that showcases a mix of neo-Romanesque and Gothic Revival styles and intricate stained-glass windows.ย
Ben Thanh Market: Want to go shopping for clothes, souvenirs, or street food? The Ben Thanh Market has it all. You can also opt for a cooking class where you’re guided through the market for produce.
Saigon Central Post Office: The Saigon Central Post Office is an architectural masterpiece! Step inside to marvel at its vaulted ceilings, arched windows, and intricate ironwork, while sending a postcard or snapping some photos.
War Remnants Museum: This museum provides a sobering glimpse into the Vietnam War from the perspective of the Vietnamese. It features war photographs, military equipment, and personal stories.
Tan Dinh Church: Tan Dinh Church is one of the most photogenic spots in Ho Chi Minh City thanks to its bright pink color. This Roman Catholic church features neo-Gothic architecture and vibrant stained glass windows.ย
River Cruise: Experience the city from the water via a cruise along the Saigon River. Choose from day cruises to see the skyline, or opt for an evening dinner cruise to see the twinkling city lights of the city.
Cu Chi Tunnels (outside the city): Venture outside the city to explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast network of underground passages used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.ย
Take a coffee class: Learn to make different types of coffee with a fun coffee workshop. Perfect for beginners and coffee lovers wanting to learn more about Vietnamese coffee.
Getting Around Vietnam
Vietnam offers a range of transportation options, from buses and trains to motorbikes and ferries. In larger cities, the rideshare app Grab is a popular choice for getting around, providing a convenient way to book cars or motorbikes. However, Grab isn’t available everywhere. In more rural areas, transportation options may be limited to motorbikes via Grab. Other reliable ways to navigate include local taxis, public buses, and renting a motorbike for a more flexible experience.
Domestic flights via a reliable carrier such as Vietnam Airlines are a convenient way to cover longer distances. Vietnam Airlines offers many domestic flights to destinations including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc.ย
Getting to Vietnam
Vietnam Airlines offers non-stop direct flights from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City. I flew Vietnam Airlines directly from San Francisco (SFO). I took a short flight from my home airport, LAX.
How Long to Stay in Vietnam
For first-time visitors to Vietnam, a stay of at least two weeks is recommended to fully experience the country’s diverse offerings. This allows you to explore at least three different cities, giving you a well-rounded taste of Vietnam’s vibrant culture, history, and landscapes. While itโs possible to visit more destinations in this time, spending at least three days in each location will ensure you can fully appreciate the unique character and attractions of each place without feeling rushed.
2-Week Vietnam Trip Itineraryย
Here are two different suggested routes for a roughly two-week visit:
North Route:
- Hanoi (3-days)
- Halong Bay (3-days)
- Sapa (2-3 days – extend your stay if youโre trekking a longer route)
- Ninh Binh (3 days)
- Optional: Ha Giang Loop (3-days)
South Route:
- Da Nang (2 days)
- Hoi An (3 days)
- Optional: Hue (1-2 days)
- Optional: Dalat (3 days)
- Mekong Delta (visit as a day tour or a multi-day trek)
- Ho Chi Minh City (1-3 days based on interest)
3-week Vietnam Itineraryย
Tips for Traveling Through Vietnam and Things to Know
- Visa: Use iVisa to check visa requirements before your trip and make sure to have a valid visa if necessary. U.S. Citizens do require a visa to travel to Vietnam.
- Currency: The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). And make sure to have some cash on hand, especially in the more rural cities and when shopping local vendors, but credit cards are widely accepted in larger cities.
- Transportation: Buses and trains are cost-effective options for traveling within Vietnam. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Grab are also available.
Best Time to Visitย
The best time to visit Vietnam is typically during the spring (February to April) and autumn (August to October) when the weather is pleasant across most of the country. Avoid traveling during the peak monsoon season (July to September) in the north and central regions, as heavy rains and typhoons can disrupt travel plans.
And if you’re traveling to other nearby countries in Southeast Asia be sure to check out my Cambodia blog posts and my Thailand posts for more information.
Ready to explore Vietnam? This detailed Vietnam trip itinerary ensures you won’t miss out on any must-see sights. Happy travels!
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