Day 1–2: Hanoi – The Beating Heart of Vietnam
Begin in the capital, Hanoi, where the Old Quarter, Hoàn Kiếm Lake, and the Temple of Literature offer a captivating introduction to Vietnamese history, daily life, and colonial charm. Don’t miss a traditional water puppet show and an evening street‑food crawl sampling phở, bánh mì, and egg coffee
Day 3: Halong Bay – A UNESCO Natural Wonder
Take a scenic drive to Halong Bay, board an overnight junk‑boat cruise amid emerald waters and towering limestone karsts. Kayak through hidden caves, enjoy sunset views, and fall asleep under a starlit sky
Day 4: Ninh Bình – “Halong Bay on Land”
Head south to Ninh Bình, where you’ll glide along tranquil rivers past dramatic karst formations in Tam Cốc, explore ancient temples like Bích Động, and ride a sampan through lush rice paddies
Day 5: Fly to Central Vietnam – Da Nang & Hoi An
Transfer to Da Nang, then shuttle into Hội An, the lantern-lit UNESCO town. Walk the ancient streets, get tailored clothing, cycle to rural villages, or relax by An Bang Beach
Day 6–8: Hội An & Hue – Culture and Coast
- Hội An: Lantern‑lit evenings, local cooking classes, a visit to My Son Sanctuary, and riverside cafés.
- Optional day trip along the Hai Van Pass to Huế, the former imperial capital—visit the Citadel, royal tombs, and Perfume River reddit.com.
Day 9–11: Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta
Fly south to Ho Chi Minh City—explore the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, and take a half‑day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Then, journey into the Mekong Delta to visit floating markets and enjoy riverside life
Day 12–14: Phú Quốc (Optional Beach Extension)
Wrap up with relaxation on Phú Quốc island—crystal‑clear waters, sandy beaches, and top-tier resorts. A great way to unwind before departure m.youtube.comyoutube.com.
🌟 Local Voices: Traveler Tips from Reddit
“Personally I would skip Nha Trang and add one day to Da Nang… use the extra 2 days to do 2D 1N in Ninh Binh from Hanoi.”
“Go to Cat Ba and take Halong tour from there… people say skip Halong and go to Ninh Binh—they’re the same. But I don’t agree. I’ve been to both and Halong hits different.”
reddit.com+1Helena Bradbury+1reddit.com
📅 Itineraries at a Glance
| Region | Highlights | Nights |
|---|---|---|
| North | Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ninh Bình | 4 |
| Central Vietnam | Da Nang, Hoi An, Huế | 4 |
| South | Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta | 3 |
| Optional Beach Stay | Phú Quốc Island | 3 |
🌺 Why This Trip Inspires
- Balanced pace—city sightseeing, heritage sites, countryside relaxation, and beach time.
- Diverse experiences—from street-food culture to UNESCO landscapes, historic citadels, rural homestays, and shimmering seas.
- Rich stories—via history, architecture, art, food, and traditional crafts.
- Flexibility—adapt based on interests: cut beach time for more culture, or linger longer in nature spots like Ninh Bình.
