Welcome to your ultimate 7 day guide to Vietnam! If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring a place where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modern energy, you’re in for a treat. This itinerary will take you on a journey through Vietnam’s most iconic spots: Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Hoi An, and Halong Bay, where vibrant street scenes, delicious food, and breathtaking landscapes await around every corner. Get ready to dive into the local culture, savor every moment, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
DAY 1 to 2 - HANOI
Start your journey in Hanoi, a city where ancient traditions meet lively modern energy. When you arrive in the Old Quarter, you’ll be swept up in a maze of narrow streets lit by neon signs, buzzing with motorbikes and street food vendors. Kick off your morning with a cup of famous egg coffee at a cozy spot like Note Cafe, a local favorite known for its quirky decor and traveler sticky notes. Wander along Mural Street to admire some outdoor art, then head to Ngoc Son Temple, peacefully nestled in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake. Don’t miss a quick visit to St. Joseph’s Cathedral, which looks like a charming slice of Europe in the heart of Hanoi. As evening falls, dive into the vibrant chaos of the Hanoi Night Market. Here, you can sample all sorts of street food, haggle for quirky souvenirs, and soak up the lively atmosphere before wrapping up your day with a steaming bowl of pho.
DAY 3 - NINH BINH
After a quick breakfast, set off for Ninh Binh, a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Hanoi that feels like stepping into a completely different world. Although many visitors choose to stay overnight, a day trip can capture the region’s magic just as well. Begin with a relaxed boat tour through Trang An, opting for a route that takes you through the 1,000-meter-long Dot Cave—the longest cave in the area. The two-hour ride, with its brief temple stops to beat the heat, offers a peaceful escape into nature. Once you’re back on land, treat yourself to a quick foot massage before tackling the 500 steps of Mua Cave. At the halfway split, decide between a steeper climb leading to a dramatic dragon statue or an easier route to a charming pagoda that glows at night. Either way, the panoramic views over lush landscapes make every step worth it.
INSIGHT:
- Route 1 takes you through 9 caves and 3 temples of the Dinh Dynasty. All these caves are relatively short. The route is as follows: Trinh Temple, Toi Cave, Sang Cave, Nau Ruou Cave, Tran Temple, Ba Giot Cave, Seo Cave, Son Duong Cave, Khong Cave, Khong Temple – Bao Hieu Pagoda, Tran Cave & Quy Hau Cave.
- Route 2 takes you through 4 limestone caves and 3 temples. This route includes Dia Linh Mountain. The route is as follows: Lam Cave, Thanh Cao Son Temple, Vang Cave, Thanh Truot Cave, Suoi Tien Temple, Dai Cave & Vu Lam Royal Steps.
- Route 3 takes you through 3 caves and 3 temples. This route also takes you through Dia Linh Mountain, same as Route 2. The route is as follows: Trinh Temple, Dot Cave, Van Cave, Suoi Tien Temple, Dai Cave & Vu Lam Royal Steps.
DAY 4 to 5 - HOI AN
Next, fly into Da Nang and enjoy a short 50-minute drive to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels like stepping back in time. The ancient town is famous for its lantern-lit streets, centuries-old architecture, and an atmosphere that’s both relaxed and enchanting. Spend your days wandering the winding alleys at your own pace, check out landmarks like the Japanese Bridge and Quan Cong Temple, or simply lose yourself among the local shops and cafes. If you love cooking, join a traditional Vietnamese cooking class to learn how to bring local flavors into your own kitchen. And if you have a flair for fashion, be sure to visit one of Hoi An’s renowned tailors who can recreate any Pinterest-worthy outfit at a fraction of the cost. Along the way, indulge in local delights like Banh mi and egg coffee while soaking in the town’s unique charm.
DAY 6 to 7 - HALONG BAY
Wrap up your adventure with a day cruise in Halong Bay, famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and emerald waters. Even if you’re short on time and opt for an 8-hour day cruise instead of an overnight stay, you’re in for a treat. Begin with a light breakfast on board as you sail past thousands of stunning islets. The cruise includes a visit to Sung Sot Cave, where gigantic stalactites and stalagmites create an otherworldly scene, and a stop at Titov Island, where a moderate climb rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the bay. After a satisfying buffet lunch, relax with a leisurely kayaking session around Luon Cave, where the calm waters and playful monkeys add to the magic of the experience. As the day winds down, enjoy live music on the sundeck—a perfect, soothing finale to your Vietnam adventure.
Additional Tips for Your Vietnam Journey
- Safety: While Vietnam is generally safe, keep your valuables secure in crowded areas. A fanny pack or a secure bag is a smart choice.
- Stay Hydrated: Always drink bottled water, as tap water isn’t filtered or safe to drink.
- Health: Pack a reliable mosquito repellent to protect yourself from dengue fever, which is common in some areas.
- When to Visit: Vietnam is a year-round destination. For milder weather, consider traveling between March and April. If you’re planning a trip during the busy monsoon season (May to October), booking well in advance is essential.
- Language: Although Vietnamese is the official language, English is widely spoken at tourist hotspots. Learning a few basic phrases like “Xin chào” (hello), “Cảm ơn” (thank you), and “Xin lỗi” (excuse me) can go a long way in enhancing your travel experience.
With its rich tapestry of experiences, Vietnam invites you to immerse yourself in its culture, natural beauty, and vibrant street life, all while being wonderfully affordable. Let this guide be your roadmap to an unforgettable 7 day journey through one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating destinations.
4 thoughts on “Ultimate Guide to 1 week in Vietnam”
Hello
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