Vietnam has been on a roll these past few years. It has impressively created a spot in the global travel scene and has been an allure for globetrotters for its mishmash of chaos and calm, natural beauty, and affordability. Many book Hanoi tour packages and flock to the capital city to explore its history-enriched attractions and slurp on hot coffee or a soul-warming bowl of Pho.
But is it worth it if you just see the capital city and come back? Of course not! Vietnam has so much to offer that it cannot be summarised by visiting one popular city. That’s just a minute slice of this stunning destination.
A recommended trip that spans a week, that is 7 days, is what we believe you should lock in for a complete Vietnamese experience. A north-to-south Vietnam adventure will give you the full spectrum – from Hanoi’s street food to Halong Bay’s spectacular natural scenery to Ho Chi Minh’s historic settings. Also, this way, you can explore more than just the popular towns and include some stellar experiences at Phu Quoc and Hoi An that will make your trip more worthwhile. So, how should you spend 7 days in Vietnam? Here’s how:
7 Day Vietnam Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive – Hanoi
Your 7 days adventure in Vietnam starts here! The capital city, Hanoi, is the first stop on your Vietnam trip that will get you acquainted with the people, culture, and nightlife of the destination. Today, after your flight, check into your hotel and just relax.
- Set out in the evening to explore Hoan Kiem Lake at the golden hour, followed by a traditional water puppet show and a Hanoi Street Food tour.
- Have dinner at food stalls to get a taste of what Vietnamese food is all about.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Hanoi.
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour
Since there are plenty of things to do in Hanoi, it would be unfair if you left without experiencing the buzzing city’s warmth and excitement. On Day 2, start with a sumptuous breakfast in the hotel. Then, set out to explore Hanoi.
- Visit the Old Quarter, Temple of Literature, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, French Quarter, and Ngoc Son Temple.
Instead of walking, you can enjoy the tour on a cycle or even hop on a Vespa and zip across the city and explore. - Don’t forget to sip a Vietnamese coffee while experiencing the thrill of a train chugging inches away from you at the Hanoi Train Street.
- Satiate your appetite at Bun Cha Ta with fried spring rolls and rice noodles.
- Also, don’t wait till the last moment to buy Vietnam souvenirs. Head to the Dong Xuan Market and get yourself an authentic Vietnamese conical leaf hat or a beautiful silk apparel.
- For dinner, check out Quan An Ngon, Chao Ban Vietnamese Restaurant, Hanoi Corner Restaurant, or Tung’s Kitchen.
Return and overnight stay at the hotel in Hanoi.
Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay – Hanoi
Today, venture out to the magical, UNESCO World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay.
- After breakfast, take a three-hour road trip to Ha Long Bay.
- Enjoy a cruise with lunch on board and meander through the emerald waters dotted by numerous rugged limestone karsts.
- Venture out on a guided exploration of Sung Sot Cave.
- Try a kayaking adventure in Ha Long Bay.
- Wind up your day with a photo stop of a stunning sunset.
Head back to Hanoi for dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 4: Hoi An
On Day 4, bid adieu to Hanoi, check out, and head to the south of Vietnam, starting your expedition with a short flight to Hoi An. Once you reach here:
- Have brunch at Cargo Club Cafe and Restaurant and treat yourself to delicious Vietnamese pancakes, steaming dumplings, Cao Lau, and more.
- Wander around the Ancient Town, marvelling at colourful lanterns and the Japanese Covered Bridge.
- Ride a bamboo basket boat through the coconut groves of Hoi An’s Cam Thanh village.
- Spend time strolling at An Bang Beach.
- Get crafty and make your own Vietnamese silk lantern in a lantern-making workshop.
- Did you know Hoi An is also popular for getting clothes affordably tailored as per your desire? You can get a chic suit or a customised dress made to fit perfectly from one of the many local tailor shops here at a fraction of the cost that you might be paying at boutiques in your home country. Try it out!
- End your day with dinner at Mango Mango.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Hoi An.
Day 5: Phu Quoc
Continue your southern Vietnamese adventure with a visit to Phu Quoc, a breathtaking island paradise. So, in the morning, check out from your Hoi An hotel and transfer to the airport for a two-hour flight to Phu Quoc.
- Have your meals at Mango Bay, Crab House, Xin Chao Seafood Restaurant, or Aura Seafood & Bar and indulge in the lip-smacking, flavoursome seafood dishes.
- A visit to Sao Beach is a must to witness the bliss of palm-lined, powdery sand shores and turquoise waves.
- Experience an island-hopping, snorkelling tour and explore the islands and the underwater wonders here.
Stroll through the Phu Quoc Night Market to sample delicious crepes and rolled ice cream.
Head back to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City
Now you are in the last leg of your Vietnamese journey, staying in Ho Chi Minh City for the remaining night in this fascinating country. It is time to take a look at Vietnamese history after all the fun and adventure, before you head back home tomorrow.
In the morning, proceed to the airport and catch a flight to this destination. Once you reach, check into the hotel and relax a bit. Today, you will:
- Sample some delectable cuisine at Ben Nghe Street Food Market.
- Visit the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Reunification Palace.
- Walk through Dong Khoi Street or Chinatown Street.
- Take Instagrammable pictures at the strikingly pink-hued Tan Dinh Church and Jade Emperor Pagoda.
- Enjoy the scintillating city views with a river dinner cruise.
Head back to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City – Departure
It’s time to say goodbye to this beautiful Asian destination. But before that, treat yourself to delicious Pho and Vietnamese coffee one last time. Explore the lush scenery of Tao Dan Park, and do some last-minute shopping before you head to the airport for your onward flight, leaving with memorable moments lingering in your mind.
Best Time to Visit Vietnam
- For clear blue skies and tropical sunshine: December to March.
- For beach lovers and underwater adventure enthusiasts: July and August.
- For affordable, low budget experiences: September to November.
Best Vietnam Stay Options To Check Out
Hanoi: Amara Hanoi Hotel and Spa, Hanoi Ancient Paradise Hotel, Serene Central Hotel.
Hoi An: La Charm Hoi An Hotel and Spa, Laluna Hoi An Riverside Hotel and Spa, Four Seasons The Nam Hai.
Phu Quoc: Saigon Phu Quoc Resort & Spa, Premier Village Phu Quoc Resort, Anja Beach Resort & Spa, Camia Resort & Spa.
Ho Chi Minh: La Siesta Premium Saigon Hotel, Silverland Jolie Hotel, Mai House Saigon Hotel, Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel.
Conclusion
Vietnam’s appeal lies in its contrasts, from bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to fascinating countryside spots like Hoi An that offer tranquil escapes into lush, green panoramas. This breathtaking destination is for those curious wanderers who want to venture away from the quintessential Asian tropical experience and want something that binds fun, relaxation, adventure, with affordability and warm hospitality. Nature lovers and foodies definitely would love coming back here for more! This 7 day Vietnam itinerary is enough for you to fall in love with it, turning you into a yearning tourist who wishes to come back for more of its warmth and vibes. Visit it once, and you will definitely make a plan to revisit in the future.
