Vietnam: A Complete Tour Guide & 7-Days Travel Itinerary

Vietnam, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the peaceful beauty of Ha Long Bay, the energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the ancient charm of Hoi An, Vietnam offers a diverse blend of experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Vietnam has something for every traveler.

This 7-day itinerary will take you through the must-see highlights, offering a balance of cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and local experiences. We’ll explore historic sites, vibrant markets, tranquil beaches, and even the incredible street food scene that makes Vietnam so unique.

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – Exploring the Old Quarter

Morning: Arrive in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, known for its colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and rich history. After checking into your hotel, start your day with a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake, a central landmark surrounded by parks and temples. Visit Ngoc Son Temple on an island in the lake for a bit of history and culture.

Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring the Old Quarter. Wander the narrow, bustling streets where local vendors sell everything from textiles to street food. Stop for a taste of Bánh Mì (Vietnamese sandwich) or a bowl of Phở (noodle soup) at a local stall.

Evening: Head to The Water Puppet Theatre for a traditional Vietnamese performance, which tells stories from rural life through colorful puppets on water. It’s a truly unique experience. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Hoan Kiem Lake.

Day 2: Hanoi – Exploring History and Culture

Morning: Start the day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can pay respects to the founding father of modern Vietnam. Afterward, head to the nearby One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic Buddhist temple built in 1049. The architecture is unique and picturesque, set amidst lush gardens.

Afternoon: Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which offers an in-depth look at the diverse ethnic groups of Vietnam. Then, take a stroll through Temple of Literature, the oldest university in Vietnam and a symbol of Confucianism.

Evening: For dinner, explore Trang Tien Plaza, a popular shopping and dining destination, and enjoy local delicacies at the various food stalls. You could try Bún Chả, the dish famously enjoyed by President Obama during his visit.

Day 3: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay – A Natural Wonder

Morning: After an early breakfast, embark on a day trip to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic limestone karsts and emerald waters. The journey takes around 3.5 hours, and upon arrival, you’ll board a traditional junk boat for a cruise through the bay.

Afternoon: Relax and enjoy the stunning views as you cruise through the bay, stopping to explore some of the caves and islands. Don’t miss Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest and most impressive caves in Ha Long Bay.

Evening: Return to Hanoi in the evening, and if you’re up for it, enjoy a late-night stroll along the Long Bien Bridge, a relic of the French colonial era that offers beautiful views of the Red River.

Day 4: Hanoi to Hue – Ancient Imperial City

Morning: Catch an early flight or train to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. After checking into your hotel, head straight to the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Vietnam’s rich royal history. Explore the grand palaces, temples, and gates of this vast complex.

Afternoon: Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most beautiful pagodas in Vietnam, located on the banks of the Perfume River. You can take a boat ride along the river to reach it.

Evening: Stroll through the lively streets of Dong Ba Market, where you can find local handicrafts, textiles, and delicious food. Try the local specialty Bánh Khoái (Hue pancakes) for dinner.

Day 5: Hue to Hoi An – A Timeless Town

Morning: After breakfast, take a scenic drive along the Hai Van Pass, one of the most beautiful coastal routes in Vietnam. The drive offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the South China Sea.

Afternoon: Arrive in Hoi An, an ancient town known for its preserved architecture, charming streets, and lantern-filled alleys. Spend the afternoon exploring the town, with stops at the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Hoi An Ancient Town, where you can admire the blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture.

Evening: As night falls, Hoi An comes alive with colorful lanterns illuminating the streets. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and don’t miss the chance to try Cao Lau, a noodle dish unique to Hoi An.

Day 6: Hoi An – Beaches and Cooking Class

Morning: Spend your morning at one of Hoi An’s beautiful beaches, such as An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach, for a relaxing swim or some sunbathing. If you’re interested, you can also join a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls or Pho.

Afternoon: Visit the My Son Sanctuary, a Hindu temple complex located about 40 km from Hoi An. This UNESCO site offers a glimpse into the ancient Champa civilization, with beautiful ruins set against a backdrop of lush mountains.

Evening: End your day with a peaceful river cruise in Hoi An, where you can release lanterns into the water, a traditional local custom believed to bring good luck.

Day 7: Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City – The Dynamic Southern Hub

Morning: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), the largest city in Vietnam. After settling in, start your day with a visit to Reunification Palace, the site of the fall of Saigon in 1975. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s history.

Afternoon: Explore the War Remnants Museum for a deeper understanding of the Vietnam War, and then visit Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office, both beautiful examples of French colonial architecture.

Evening: For your final evening, head to Bến Thành Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and sample some last-minute street food. End the trip with a meal at Ben Thanh Street Food Market, a vibrant spot where you can try the best of Vietnamese cuisine in one place.

Total Estimated Budget for the 7-Day Trip to Vietnam