Vietnam is a remarkably diverse and beautiful country that provides visitors with a wide range of experiences, from thriving cities to tranquil countryside. Vietnam offers a wealth of natural wonders, vibrant culture, and deep historical legacy. This 12-day itinerary takes you from Ho Chi Minh City in the south to the enchanted Halong Bay in the north. This itinerary offers an adventure that is well-rounded, beginning with the vibrant urban life of Ho Chi Minh City and concluding with an exploration of ancient towns and temples and stunning natural scenery.
Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City
Morning: Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling economic heart of Vietnam. Transfer to your hotel and check in. Depending on your arrival time, you might want to relax and refresh before heading out.
Afternoon: Start your exploration with a visit to the War Remnants Museum. This museum provides a poignant look into the Vietnam War, offering historical insights through photographs, artifacts, and exhibits. It’s a powerful introduction to the country’s recent history.
Evening: Stroll through Ben Thanh Market, a vibrant bazaar known for its diverse range of goods, from local handicrafts to street food. Savor traditional Vietnamese dishes such as pho or banh mi at one of the many food stalls. If you’re interested in experiencing the city’s nightlife, head to Bui Vien Street, famous for its lively atmosphere and bars.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 2: Full Day in Ho Chi Minh City
Morning: Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, a beautiful example of French colonial architecture. Just a short walk away is the Central Post Office, another colonial-era gem with its grand interior and historical significance.
Afternoon: Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast network of underground passages used during the Vietnam War. A guided tour will give you a detailed understanding of the tunnels’ role and the resilience of the Vietnamese people.
Evening: Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Saigon River. This relaxing experience offers stunning views of the city’s skyline illuminated at night. Many cruises include traditional Vietnamese music and dance performances, adding to the evening’s charm.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 3: Mekong Delta Day Trip
Full Day: Take a full-day excursion to the Mekong Delta, a region renowned for its intricate network of rivers, floating markets, and lush landscapes. Board a boat to explore the waterways, visit floating markets such as Cai Rang or Cai Be, and see traditional villages where you can experience local crafts and foods. The Mekong Delta offers a unique glimpse into rural life in Vietnam.
Evening: Return to Ho Chi Minh City and relax after a day of exploration. If you have the energy, you might want to visit a local café for a taste of Vietnamese coffee.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 4: Travel to Da Nang
Morning: Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and historical sites. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring Da Nang. Visit the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five marble and limestone hills that offer stunning panoramic views. Explore the caves and pagodas scattered throughout the mountains.
Evening: Walk along the Han River, which is especially picturesque at night when the Dragon Bridge is illuminated. Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, savoring local seafood and Vietnamese specialties.
Overnight: Da Nang
Day 5: Ba Na Hills Adventure
Full Day: Take a day trip to Ba Na Hills, a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque landscapes and the iconic Golden Bridge. Ride the world’s longest and highest cable car to reach the summit, where you’ll find stunning views of the surrounding area. Explore the French Village, a theme park, and various other attractions on the hill.
Evening: Return to Da Nang. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant or take a leisurely walk on the beach to unwind from a day of exploration.
Overnight: Da Nang
Day 6: Da Nang to Hoi An
Morning: Drive from Da Nang to Hoi An, a charming ancient town renowned for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant culture.
Afternoon: Wander through Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, old merchant houses, and ancient temples. The town’s lantern-lit streets provide a magical atmosphere, especially in the evening.
Evening: Dine at a riverside restaurant in Hoi An and explore the night market, where you can shop for souvenirs and local crafts.
Overnight: Hoi An
Day 7: Hoi An to Hue
Morning: Depart Hoi An and drive to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam.
Afternoon: Explore the Imperial City (Citadel), a vast complex of palaces, temples, and gates that once served as the seat of the Nguyen emperors. Visit the Royal Tombs of Emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh, known for their intricate designs and historical significance.
Evening: Take a boat ride on the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic Buddhist site. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight: Hue
Day 8: Fly to Hanoi
Morning: Fly from Hue to Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam.
Afternoon: Arrive in Hanoi and check into your hotel. Begin exploring the Old Quarter, characterized by its narrow streets, vibrant street life, and traditional shops. Visit Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Evening: Experience a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show, a unique form of entertainment with performances held on water. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and explore Hanoi’s night market if time permits.
Overnight: Hanoi
Day 9: Full Day in Hanoi
Morning: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of Vietnam’s revolutionary leader. Nearby, explore the One Pillar Pagoda, a historic Buddhist temple with a unique architectural design. Next, visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
Afternoon: Explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which offers comprehensive displays on the country’s diverse ethnic groups. Alternatively, you might visit the Hanoi Hilton (Hoa Lo Prison) for a historical perspective on the Vietnam War.
Evening: Stroll through the French Quarter, known for its colonial architecture and upscale shops. Enjoy a final dinner in Hanoi, savoring traditional dishes like bun cha or cha ca.
Overnight: Hanoi
Day 10: Travel to Ninh Binh
Morning: Drive or take a train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, a region known for its stunning karst landscapes and historical sites.
Afternoon: Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, exploring the temples dedicated to former emperors. Then, take a boat tour in Tam Coc or Trang An. Both offer scenic views of limestone karsts, rice paddies, and serene waterways.
Evening: Return to Ninh Binh and relax at your hotel. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, experiencing regional specialties.
Overnight: Ninh Binh
Day 11: Ninh Binh to Halong Bay
Morning: Depart from Ninh Binh and travel to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic limestone formations and emerald waters.
Afternoon: Board a cruise ship and begin your exploration of Halong Bay. The cruise will take you through stunning seascapes, with opportunities to visit caves, swim, or kayak. Enjoy a seafood lunch on board.
Evening: Relax on the cruise, taking in the sunset over the bay. Enjoy a delicious dinner and participate in onboard activities such as cooking classes or squid fishing.
Overnight: Halong Bay Cruise
Day 12: Return to Hanoi
Morning: Continue exploring Halong Bay, then disembark and return to Hanoi. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Afternoon: Transfer to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure flight or spend one last night in Hanoi if time allows.
Overnight: Hanoi (if needed) or Depart
This 12-day itinerary takes you on a journey from the vibrant southern city of Ho Chi Minh to the serene beauty of Halong Bay in the north. By following this guide, you’ll experience the best of Vietnam’s cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and stunning natural landscapes. Enjoy your trip to this fascinating and diverse country!