Vietnam is a treasure trove of culture, food, and breathtaking landscapes just waiting for you to explore. Pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and let's dive into a week-long itinerary that will take you from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the stunning beaches of Da Nang. Get ready to experience everything from street food heaven to serene boat rides. Let’s go!
Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi
Morning: Land at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), and feel that instant rush of humidity—welcome to Vietnam! Hop in a taxi or Grab (the local ride-hailing app) to your hotel in the Old Quarter. Check-in and freshen up. You’ll need it.
Afternoon: Hit the streets! Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the legendary turtle that lives there. Don’t forget to stop at a lakeside café for some egg coffee. Yes, it’s a thing, and no, you won’t regret it.
- Visit Ngoc Son Temple on the lake.
- Stroll through the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter.
- Lunch at a street vendor for some pho.
Evening: Head to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre for a traditional performance. It’s quirky, colorful, and you’ll leave wondering how they do it. Wrap up your night with dinner at a local restaurant. Try bun cha, grilled pork with noodles—your taste buds will thank you.
Day 2: Hanoi to Halong Bay
Morning: After breakfast, catch a bus or a shuttle (about 4 hours) to Halong Bay. Pro tip: grab a window seat for those Instagram-worthy views. Once you arrive, hop on a boat for a cruise through the iconic limestone islands.
- Visit Sung Sot Cave, a must-see.
- Enjoy a seafood lunch on the boat—it’s fresh, or as fresh as it gets.
Afternoon: Kayak around the floating villages or simply relax on the deck. Don’t forget to slather on the sunscreen because nobody wants to look like a lobster on this trip.
Evening: Return to the harbor and catch a ride back to Hanoi. Have dinner at a local spot and try cha ca, which is fish cooked with turmeric and dill. It’s a Hanoi specialty. Then, maybe hit a local bar for a Bia Hoi, a local draft beer that’s cheaper than bottled water. Seriously.
Day 3: Travel to Hue
Morning: Take a flight from Hanoi to Hue (about 1 hour). Check into your hotel and get ready to explore this ancient capital.
Afternoon: Visit the Imperial City. Walk through the gates and feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Make sure to check out the Forbidden Purple City—no, it’s not just a fancy name.
- Explore the royal tombs, like the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh.
- Enjoy lunch at a local eatery. Try bun bo Hue, a spicy beef noodle soup.
Evening: Take a boat ride on the Perfume River to watch the sunset. You can sit back and contemplate life or plan your next meal—your choice. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant.
Day 4: Hue to Hoi An
Morning: After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Hoi An (about 3 hours). Stop at the Hai Van Pass for breathtaking views. You might even want to get out and take a selfie. You’re welcome.
Afternoon: Arrive in Hoi An and explore the ancient town. This UNESCO World Heritage site is full of colorful lanterns and historic architecture. Don’t forget to try a banh mi at one of the local stalls. It’ll change your life.
- Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge.
- Check out the local tailor shops for custom clothing.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant. Try cao lau, a local noodle dish. Afterward, take a lantern boat ride—because you’re officially a traveler now.
Day 5: Hoi An
Morning: Take a cooking class. Learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes. You’ll impress your friends back home with your newfound skills. Just don’t burn down the kitchen.
Afternoon: Head to An Bang Beach for some relaxation. Grab a coconut, soak up the sun, and contemplate life’s mysteries. How do they get those little umbrellas in the drinks? Questions for another day.
- Visit the local markets for souvenirs.
- Enjoy a massage at a local spa—because you deserve it.
Evening: Explore Hoi An at night when the lanterns light up the streets. Dinner at a local restaurant is a must. Try some seafood dishes; the fresh flavors will leave you wanting more.
Day 6: Hoi An to Da Nang
Morning: Take a short drive to Da Nang (about 30 minutes). Visit the Marble Mountains. Hike up for some stunning views, and explore the caves—perfect for your inner Indiana Jones.
Afternoon: Spend time at My Khe Beach. It’s beautiful and perfect for swimming. Grab a light lunch at a beachside café to keep your energy up for the next adventure.
- Visit the Dragon Bridge and take some photos.
- Check out the Han River waterfront.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try mi quang, a noodle dish that’s a Da Nang specialty. After dinner, relax at a bar overlooking the river. Because why not?
Day 7: Departure
Morning: Enjoy one last Vietnamese breakfast. Pho, anyone? Then, depending on your flight time, you can do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Maybe visit the Cham Museum if you have a few hours to spare.
Afternoon: Head to the airport for your flight home. Reflect on your week in Vietnam and how you managed to eat your weight in delicious food and still fit into your clothes.
Your week in Vietnam will leave you with unforgettable memories, and probably a few extra pounds from all that incredible food. Trust me, it’s worth it. Now go out there and make some travel stories that will impress everyone back home.
