vietnam travel itinerary 1 month

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20 Best Things to Do in Vietnam

10 best places to visit in vietnam in 2024, 10 best beaches in vietnam, 15 must-try vietnamese dishes, ao dai – vietnamese traditional dress.

• Ho Chi Minh City

The 10 best attractions in Da Nang

The 6 best attractions in ha long city, must-visit attractions in hoi an, the 15 best attractions in dalat, 5 must-try foods in ha long, 1 month in vietnam, 1-month vietnam itinerary map.

Our recommended 1-month itinerary covers 17 of Vietnam’s most popular destinations, including Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Ha Tien, Can Tho, Mui Ne, Dalat, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue, Quang Binh, Ninh Binh, Cat Ba Island, Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, and Sapa.

Destinations:  17

Travel time (hr):  75+

Transportation costs (USD):  200+

Total cost (USD):  950+

Itinerary details

Things to do : War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Skydeck, Bui Vien Street, Cu Chi Tunnels.

Ho Chi Minh City → Phu Quoc :

• Transportation: Plane (Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Pacific Airlines, and Bamboo Airways)
• Flying time: 1 hr 5 min
• Airfare: 800,000 – 1,200,000 VND

Things to do : Long Beach, Star Beach, Hon Thom, Phu Quoc Prison, Phu Quoc Night Market, Vinpearl Safari.

Phu Quoc → Ha Tien :

• Transportation: Ferry (Superdong)
• Travel time: 1 hr 15 min
• Fare: 185,000 VND

Things to do : Phu Dung Pagoda, Da Dung Mountain, Mac Family Temple, Ha Tien Night Market.

Ha Tien → Can Tho :

• Transportation: Bus (Tan Nien)
• Travel time: 5 hr
• Fare: 130,000 VND

Things to do : Cai Rang Floating Market, Ong Temple, Binh Thuy Ancient House, Muoi Cuong Cocoa Farm.

Can Tho → Mui Ne :

• Transportation: Bus (Lien Hung)
• Travel time: 10 hr 30 min
• Fare: 400,000 VND

Things to do : Mui Ne Beach, Ta Cu Mountain, Sand Dunes, Po Shanu Cham Towers.

Mui Ne → Dalat :

• Transportation: Bus (An Phu Bus)
• Travel time: 3 h 45 min
• Fare: 150,000 VND

Things to do : Xuan Huong Lake, Dalat Railway Station, Chicken Church, Linh Phuoc Pagoda, Dalat Night Market.

Dalat  →  Nha Trang :

• Transportation: Bus (Phuong Trang, The Sinh Bus)
• Travel time: 3 hr
• Fare: 250,000 VND

Things to do : Nha Trang Beach, Vinpearl Land, Po Nagar Cham Towers, Dam Market.

Nha Trang   →   Quy Nhon :

• Transportation: Bus (Thanh Thuy)
• Fare: 200,000 VND

Things to do : Ky Co, Eo Gio, Twin Towers, Queen’s Beach.

Quy Nhon  →  Da Nang :

• Transportation: Bus (Phuong Trang, Lien Hung)
• Travel time: 6 hr 30 min

Things to do : My Khe Beach, Ba Na Hills, Marble Mountains, Museum of Cham Sculpture.

Da Nang  →  Hoi An :

• Transportation: Bus (01)
• Travel time: 45 min
• Fare: 30,000 VND

Things to do : Hoi An Ancient Town, An Bang Beach, Bay Mau Coconut Forest.

Hoi An  →  Hue :

• Transportation: Bus (Hanh Cafe, The Sinh Bus)
• Travel time: 3 hr 45 min
• Fare: 180,000 VND

Things to do : The Imperial Citadel of Hue, Thien Mu Pagoda, Khai Dinh Tomb, Tu Duc Tomb, Dong Ba Market.

Hue  →  Quang Binh :

• Transportation: Bus (Camel Travel)
• Travel time: 4 hr

Things to do : Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, Paradise Cave, Nhat Le Beach.

Quang Binh  →  Ninh Binh :

• Transportation: Train (Dong Hoi – Ninh Binh)
• Travel time: 8 hr
• Fare: 300,000 VND

Things to do : Tam Coc – Bich Dong, Mua Cave, Trang An Landscape Complex, Bai Dinh Pagoda.

Ninh Binh → Cat Ba Island :

• Transportation: Bus (Cat Ba Express)
• Fare: 280,000 VND

Cat Ba Island

Things to do : Lan Ha Bay, Monkey Island, Cat Ba National Park.

Cat Ba Island → Ha Long Bay :

• Transportation: Ferry (Cat Ba – Tuan Chau)
• Fare: 80,000 VND

Ha Long Bay

Things to do : Ha Long Bay, Tuan Chau Island, Bai Chay Beach.

Ha Long Bay → Hanoi :

• Transportation: Bus (Trung Thanh Limousine)
• Travel time: 1 hr 30 min
• Fare: 260,000 VND

Things to do : Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Old Quarter, Temple of Literature, Dong Xuan Market, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Hanoi → Sapa :

• Transportation: Bus (Fansipan Express Bus)
• Travel time: 6 hr 10 min

Things to do : Sapa Stone Church, Ham Rong Mountain, Cat Cat Village, Ta Van Village.

Sapa → Hanoi : Bus (Fansipan Express Bus)

You take bus number 86 (35,000 VND) to Noi Bai International Airport from Hanoi city center, ending your 1-month itinerary in Vietnam.

A few notes

• The USD to VND exchange rate in 2023 is around 1 USD ≈ 23,500 VND.
• A month is a perfect duration to visit a majority of the renowned destinations in Vietnam, and it is also the maximum permissible length of stay for a Vietnam  Vietnam E-Visa .
• For train travel, we recommend booking tickets on the official website of the Vietnam Railway Corporation: dsvn.vn .
• The above recommendations for tours, hotels, bus operators, and airlines were selected based on suitability, without any advertising or affiliate marketing, so you can rest assured of these suggestions.

1 month in Vietnam costs

If you’re planning a 1-month trip to Vietnam, it’s helpful to have an estimated budget in mind. On average, many tourists spend around $950 on their trip. Here’s a breakdown of estimated fixed costs to help you plan:

• Transportation costs are approximately $200.
• Accommodation in a private hotel or homestay will cost around $15 to $20 per night. For solo travelers, hostels can be a more affordable option, with prices starting at around $5 per night.
• Food costs are typically around $15 per person per day.
• Admission to monuments, museums, and attractions costs around $1 – $5.

Other itineraries

Related Articles

The Ultimate 1 Month Vietnam Itinerary And Travel Guide

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 29, 2024

Categories Vietnam

Vietnam is a wonderful country in Southeast Asia. There are lush rice fields in the North and tropical islands in the South.

In between, you can find anything from stunning limestone mountains to colorful temples, historic sites, and interesting cities.

This Vietnam itinerary includes the best things to do in Vietnam and will help you plan your trip. Happy travels!

The ultimate 1 month Vietnam itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Vietnam 1 month itinerary

In the map below you can find our Vietnam travel itinerary, accommodations, and highlights of our month in Vietnam.

I traveled from North to South but you can also do this Vietnam trip itinerary in reverse.

Click here for the interactive map.

The perfect 1 month Vietnam itinerary

Day 1-2: hanoi.

• Day 3-4 : Halong Bay
• Day 5: Perfume Pagoda
• Day 6-7:  Hoa Lu and Tam Coc
• Day 8-9:  Hue
• Day 10: Hai Van Pass and the Marble Mountains
• Day 11-17:  Hoi An
• Day 18-19: Hoi An to Dalat (via Nha Trang)
• Day 20-21: Dalat and around
• Day 22:  Dalat to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 23-25: Ho Chi Minh City and around

• Day 26:  Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc

Day 27-29: Phu Quoc Island

Plan your Southeast Asia trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Book your transport tickets (train, bus, ferry, minivan, and more) via 12Go.Asia ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours with Klook and Get Your Guide . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Important things to know when planning a Vietnam trip

The best time to visit Vietnam is between February and April . Vietnam is a long narrow country with different climates in the north and south. While the north can be ‘chilly' in winter (around 15°C), temperatures in the south are much more consistent throughout the year (between 22°C and 30°C).

The official currency in Vietnam is the  Vietnamese Dong (VND).   Here  you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 26.000VND and $1 is approximately 23.000VND.

Yes, most nationalities need a visa for Vietnam . You can apply for a visa online. Keep in mind you will need to pay two fees: online you will pay the Visa Pre-Approval Letter Fee and once you arrive at the airport you must pay a Stamping Fee (to be paid in cash, so be sure to bring dollars).

Traveling and getting around in Vietnam is pretty easy. There are many options to choose from (flights, night trains, night buses, minivans, taxis, motor tours, etc.) and plenty of travel agencies selling tickets to each of those options, as well as organized tours . In the itinerary below, you can find more detailed information about how to travel from A to B in Vietnam.

Where to stay in Vietnam on a budget

In this table, you can find the accommodation we stayed at during our trip around Vietnam.

These hotels are all rated 8+ on Agoda and Booking , we stayed in private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. More details about these hotels can be found further on in the post.

Note: Prices for these hotels depend on the time of year and how far in advance you book. Therefore, the prices mentioned above are a rough indication of the price per night to help you compare the different options. Use ‘click here' to see the latest prices and book ahead to get the best deal.

Itinerary for Vietnam

Ideally, if you have a month in Vietnam as we did, you’d travel from North to South (or vice versa). It's best to start your trip in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, as these are the largest hubs for international flights.

If you have less time available to explore Vietnam, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Further on in the post, I also suggest shorter options (7 and 10 days, plus 2 and 3 weeks) for your Vietnam travel itinerary.

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and a fusion of different cultures (Vietnamese, French, and Chinese).

It's a busy city, with many (historic) sights, a chaotic but interesting Old Quarter, beautiful temples, and an abundance of restaurants serving delicious Vietnamese dishes.

I recommend spending at least two days in Hanoi, though you could easily stay much longer in this buzzing city without running out of things to see and do.

Spend two days exploring Hanoi on foot, board a two-day cruise to Halong Bay , and join a tour of the Perfume Pagoda, or a day trip to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc .

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

I personally found visiting the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh very impressive, though also a little creepy.

I mean, the man died in 1969, and yet it looks like he is sleeping in his glass coffin and could wake up any minute.

Combined with an impressive number of guards, soldiers, and other officials and the endless line of Vietnamese honoring their great leader made visiting the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum a very unusual experience.

Visiting the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum is free, but there can be long queues. The mausoleum is only open from 7:30 am until 10:30 am, so it's best to arrive very early in the morning. Closed on Mondays and Fridays.

Ho Chi Minh Museum

While this museum is mostly a promotional campaign of the Communist Party of Vietnam, it's interesting to learn about history from this point of view.

However, I'll be honest: this wasn't the highlight of my Hanoi itinerary and if you only have one day in Hanoi, I'd skip this particular sight.

The entrance fee is 40.000VND per person and the museum is closed on Mondays and Fridays. On the other days of the week, you can visit from 8 am to12 pm or from 2 pm until 4.30 pm.

The Temple of Literature

This ancient temple was built around the year 1100 and nobles, royalty, and other members of the elite traveled from faraway places to study Confucianism here.

It's pretty incredible that the building is almost 1000 years old. Take a moment to look around and imagine how life must have been in those times.

The Temple of Literature is open every day of the week from 8 am until 6 pm. The entrance fee is 30.000VND per person.

Ngoc Son Temple

Located on a tiny island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake, it is hard to imagine a place more suited for a temple. It feels like an oasis of peacefulness in the middle of busy Hanoi.

The entrance fee is 30.000VND per person, there is a small booth left of the bridge where you can purchase a ticket. The Ngoc Son Temple is open every day of the week from 8 am until 6 pm.

Where to stay in Hanoi on a budget

Hanoi Serenity Hotel is a great place to stay in the middle of the Old Quarter. The rooms are spacious, clean, and modern.

Breakfast is good and included in the price. The staff is very welcoming and helpful.

Check prices on Agoda | Check prices on Booking

How to travel from Noi Bai International Airport to Hanoi city center

The easiest way, in my opinion, is taking the Vietjet airport shuttle bus.

This bus leaves every 1-2 hours and costs just 40.000 VND per adult. The price is clearly listed on the side of the bus, so you don't need to bargain.

The bus will stop next to Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can disembark and either walk or take a taxi to your accommodation (depending on where you are staying).

Travel tip: if you're exhausted from a long flight and want to get from Noi Bai International Airport to your hotel in Hanoi in a faster way, I recommend booking a private transfer . Your professional driver will be waiting with a personal welcome sign and deliver you safely to your Hanoi hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Click here to book your airport transfer .

Day 3-4: A two-day cruise in Halong Bay

Halong Bay is gorgeous, with its blue-green water and steep limestone cliffs rising high above the water, as far as your eyes can see.

It's one of the most popular places to visit in Vietnam and a UNESCO heritage site.

However, I have to admit that while the cruise was a lot of fun and we spent a lot of time chatting with the other travelers on the boat, I didn’t find Ha long Bay as impressive as I thought I would.

Perhaps my expectations were too high, or maybe I was spoilt because we had just visited El Nido in the Philippines , which to me is the ultimate tropical island paradise.

We also were a bit unlucky with the weather. On the first day of our cruise, it was extremely foggy and we barely saw anything of the famous cliffs.

Also, there were many other boats and a lot of trash floating in the water.

That being said, we enjoyed our cruise and I'm happy we went on this cruise. Halong Bay is a unique place to visit and should be part of any itinerary to Vietnam.

Important: cruising Halong Bay is a very popular activity in Vietnam. If you want to make sure you can travel on specific dates I strongly encourage you to book ahead.

Furthermore, I highly recommend booking with a reputable tour operator , I have heard horror stories from other travelers who ended up on a boat with huge rats.

Also check if meals and transport are included and if there are additional fees (for example, to enter Sung Sot Cave or to use a kayak).

This popular Halong Bay tour has great ratings from other travelers (4.8 stars out of 5).

Day 5: Day trip to the famous Perfume Pagoda

I really enjoyed our tour of the Perfume Pagoda because coincidentally we timed our visit perfectly. We did our tour of the Perfume Pagoda tour shortly after the Vietnamese New Year.

The week after the Vietnamese New Year, many Vietnamese people visit this particular pagoda and the Huong Tich cave to make an offering, which makes the tour extra interesting.

During this tour, our guide told us a lot about the complex combination of religions practiced in Vietnam (Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism).

To get to the Pagoda complex, we took a seat in a tiny boat rowed by a small but surprisingly strong Vietnamese man.

During this boat trip over the Yen Stream, we passed lots of boats jam-packed with Vietnamese families who were on their way to visit the pagoda as well.

They smiled enthusiastically, waved, and took pictures of us and it made for an amusing boat trip. Click here to book a tour to the Perfume Pagoda .

Day 6: Day trip to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc

This was the last of the three tours I did around Hanoi and my favorite one as well.

First, we visited Hoa Lu, which was the capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1009 during the rule of the Dinh Dynasty.

While this historic site was definitely interesting to visit, the highlight of the tour is Tam Coc. The area around Tam Coc is absolutely stunning, it's kind of similar to Halong Bay but with rice fields instead of water.

There are massive limestone cliffs soaring high above bright green rice fields, a beautiful sight!

We made a lovely boat trip along the Hoang Long River (the lady rowing the boat rowed with her feet!) and passed through an impressive case.

While this is a very worthwhile tour, please note that the bus ride from Hanoi to Tam Coc takes at least two hours (depending on traffic).

We opted not to go back to Hanoi, instead, we spent the night at Tam Coc as we planned to travel south.

Check out this excellent Hoa Lu and Tam Coc tour for more detailed information and book your ticket online .

Where to stay in Tam Coc on a budget

Tuan Ngoc Hotel is a small-scale hotel in Tam Coc and one of the best accommodations we stayed at during our one-month Vietnam trip.

The family who runs the hotel is incredibly friendly and really makes you feel at home. The rooms are clean, the bed is very comfortable and the Wi-Fi was good.

All the food was delicious and freshly prepared. A highly recommended place to stay!

Day 7-8: explore Tam Coc and travel to Hue by night train

I was very happy we got to spend another day admiring the beautiful surroundings of Tam Coc. We rented a bicycle and cycled over sandy roads between the rice fields.

We often rent bicycles during our travels and I always very much enjoy this.

Not only is it an eco-friendly way of exploring a place, but it's also healthy and allows for plenty of opportunities to make a quick stop to take a picture.

How to travel from Ninh Binh to Hue by night train

From Tuan Ngoc Hotel it's a 15-minute taxi ride to Ninh Binh station (we paid 100.000 VND). About 15 minutes before the train arrives, a bell will chime and railway employees will check your tickets.

Usually, they will guide you to the right spot on the platform, so you can board the cabin listed on your train tickets ticket.

I enjoyed our train trips in Vietnam. The 4 people soft sleeper cabins are pretty comfortable and I usually got a decent night's sleep. For more information about train travel in Vietnam, check seat61.com .

My most important tip for train travel in Vietnam is to book your train tickets online , at least a couple of days in advance! Beds sell out fast, particularly the soft sleepers.

Click here to book your train tickets via 12Go.

Day 8-9: Hue and around

I spent two lovely days in Hue, the capital of the Nguyễn emperors.

On our first day in Hue, we visited the Imperial City and on the second day, we rented a bicycle and cycled along the Perfume River.

The Imperial City

Hue was the capital of the Nguyễn emperors, who build the Citadel between 1804 and 1833.

Within the 2.5 by 2.5km and 6-meter high wall of the Citadel, the emperors build the Imperial Enclosure and within this enclosure, they build the Forbidden Purple City; a place only the emperor, his concubines, and eunuchs were allowed to enter.

Unfortunately, much of the complex has been destroyed during the Vietnam War, but with help from UNESCO, it is being restored.

The Imperial City is a very impressive complex, with beautiful temples and gardens and a must-visit during any Hue itinerary.

The complex is very green and quiet, it felt like we were the only ones there! Be sure to bring enough water along, it can get quite hot during the day.

The entrance fee to the Imperial City in Hue is 150.000 VND per person. The complex is open daily from 8 am until 5:30 pm (10 pm on Thursday evenings!)

Rent a bicycle

On our second day in Hue, we rented bicycles from our hotel and explored the area around Hue.

Thien Mu Pagoda

We visited the seven-story tall Thien Mu Pagoda, which is often regarded as the symbol of Hue. Found on the northern bank of the Perfume River, the Pagoda is an easy 5-kilometer bike ride from Hue city center.

Keep in mind there are monks living at the site so be sure to dress and behave respectfully.

Chùa Huyền Không temple

Another nice place to visit is the Chùa Huyền Không temple. This unknown temple is beautiful and highly worth a visit. It was built in 1973, around the temple there are lovely gardens and small lilyponds.

From the Thien Mu Pagoda, it's another 3km by bike to reach the Huyen Khong temple.

Other things to do in Hue

If you have more time to spend in Hue, other worthwhile activities are a day trip to Bach Ma National Park , the Tomb of Minh Mang, or the Tomb of Tu Duc.

? Only got a day to explore Hue? Check out this full-day private tour and visit the most significant and popular sights in Hue, (and learn more about the city's interesting history ) . Check availability here .

Where to stay in Hue on a budget

We received such a warm welcome at the Charming Riverside hotel . A cold towel, fresh fruit, juice, and information about Hue and the places of interest in the city.

There are different room options and some even have a river view! Bicycle rental for $2 a day. Breakfast is excellent and the staff is very helpful and accommodating.

Day 10: how to travel from Hue to Hoi An (by minivan)

The distance between Hue and Hoi An is only 150km and shouldn't take more than three hours without stopping along the way. However, that was not what happened during our trip from Hue to Hoi An…

The day before we departed, I asked the hotel how to get from Hue to Hoi An. No problem, they exclaimed, we have a minivan that can take you there for $15 per person.

I booked two tickets and we were picked up by an empty minivan the next morning. But as always in Southeast Asia, that quickly changed, and more and more people piled into the van.

After driving for about half an hour, the driver's phone went off, he had a short chat and pulled over. When one of the passengers asked why we had stopped the driver cheerfully said that more people were coming.

Apparently, they had forgotten to pick up two people in Hue, who were now on their way to our location in a cab. We patiently waited for a while until the missing passengers arrived and resumed our journey.

A friendly Vietnamese guy started talking about the surroundings, and the villages we passed and shared some historical facts.

Interesting, I thought, but why exactly is he telling this stuff? It turned out he was our guide.

Yes, apparently, I did not just book a transfer from Hue to Hoi An, I booked a tour!

Hai Van Pass

Along the way from Hue to Hoi An, we stopped at Hai Van Pass, a 600-meter high pass that gained instant fame when Jeremy Clarkson declared it ‘ A deserted ribbon of perfection ’ in the Vietnam special of Top Gear.

Beautiful? Definitely!

Deserted? Not so much.

The Marble Mountains

We also stopped at the Marble Mountains, which turned out to be an interesting place to visit.

There were many caves and Buddha statues, each of them slightly different. I didn’t know the difference between the different poses and types of Buddha statues but learned a lot during our visit to the Marble Mountains (see pictures above).

The entrance fee to the Marble Mountains is 40.000VND per person. The complex is open every day of the week from 7 am to 5:30 pm.

Final destination: Hoi An

Eventually, we arrived in Hoi An around 5 pm, after a great day of sightseeing. The tour reconfirmed my earlier lessons and my advice to you: when in Southeast Asia, always expect the unexpected:-)

For my husband and myself, it wasn't an issue that the trip had taken an entire day as we were planning to stay in Hoi An for at least a couple of days.

However, some of the passengers would be traveling back to Hue the next day, which unfortunately meant their day of sightseeing in Hoi An was cut short…

Day 11-17: exploring and relaxing in Hoi An

While we planned to spend three days in Hoi An , we ended up spending an entire week! Hoi An is a lovely town, with great food and a very relaxed vibe.

When darkness falls, Hoi An feels like a fairy tale village, lit by thousands of colorful lanterns.

Hoi An Old Town

Hoi An Old Town is a UNESCO world heritage site, with many beautiful historic buildings.

To visit these historic buildings, you need to buy a Hoi An Old Town admission ticket at one of the ticket booths spread around town.

The ticket gives you entrance to five historic buildings. There are 22 sights listed on the heritage map (you'll get one of these when purchasing the ticket) so choose carefully.

On the ticket, it says that it is valid for 24 hours only, but we used the same ticket on Monday and Wednesday without any issues. Some of the most popular sites to visit are:

• The Fujian Assembly Hall (also called Phuoc Kien)
• The Japanese Covered Bridge
• Duc An Old House
• Cam Pho Communal House
• Hoi An Museum

? Got more time to spend in Hoi An? Book this Hoi An bicycle tour and ride through the scenic countryside of Vietnam as you learn about the local way of life and enjoy a delicious lunch. Check availability here .

Have a massage

Something to add to your Hoi An itinerary is getting a massage. In Hoi An, there are many different spas, suitable for every budget.

I had a very relaxing massage at the Kiman hotel , which cost around 300.000 VND and took about an hour.

Get a custom-made dress

If you are looking to get a custom-made dress, suit, or other garments, Hoi An is the place to buy this. I had a beautiful dress made for my sister's wedding that I still wear.

Take a cooking class

During our week in Hoi An, we also took a cooking class . Before the actual cooking started, the instructors took us to the local market to buy the ingredients we were going to use in the dishes.

We learned to make fresh spring rolls and sauteed chicken. I love Vietnamese food and it tasted even better when we prepared it ourselves. Check the availability of the cooking class here.

Hang out at one of the many cafes

One of the best things about Hoi An was relaxing in one of the many cafes! I am a bit of a coffee addict and our favorite place in Hoi An was 11 Coffee.

Phap, the owner of 11 Coffee, is a great guy and a real coffee enthusiast. I can highly recommend visiting his cute cafe, we went there almost every day during our time in Hoi An.

Join a day trip to My Son

One of the most important historic sites near Hoi An is the UNESCO World Heritage site My Son Sanctuary . Learn about the Champa Kingdom and explore the ruins of this former capital.

Click here to book a tour to My Son Sanctuary.

Where to stay in Hoi An on a budget

Option 1: jolie villa homestay.

Our first hotel in Hoi An was Jolie Villa Homestay . We stayed in a spacious room with a huge comfortable bed.

The bathroom was large, clean, and modern. Also, the shower was high enough for tall people such as my husband, which is rare in Vietnam!

Wi-Fi was good (each room has its own router) and there are free bicycles available. You can also freely use the swimming pool at the Kiman hotel , which is also run by this lovely family).

But first and foremost, the host family is awesome, super-friendly, and helpful. They know each guest by name from the moment you arrive and make you feel very welcome. We had an excellent stay here!

Option 2: Sac Xanh homestay

Because all the rooms at Jolie Villa were booked and we wanted to stay in Hoi An for a couple more days, we looked for another hotel and found Sac Xanh homestay .

This was another great budget hotel and we had such a lovely stay with this family. The rooms are basic but spotlessly clean, the bed (with mosquito net) is super comfortable and there are free bicycles available.

The best thing about this homestay was the host family who was very friendly, welcoming, and helpful throughout our stay.

They arranged transport for us to Da Nang train station and helped us make a reservation for bus tickets from Nha Trang to Dalat.

Also, they made us a delicious Vietnamese breakfast each morning. On the day of our departure, the family organized a special going away lunch and the food was among the best we had in Vietnam.

Day 18-19: how to travel from Hoi An to Dalat (via Nha Trang)

After a relaxing week in Hoi An, it was time to move on. The next destination on our Vietnam tour itinerary was Dalat. In the table above you can find more details about our journey from Hoi An to Dalat.

Even though it was a 24-hour journey, it didn't feel that long because we had a good night of sleep aboard the overnight train and the road from Nha Trang to Dalat was breathtaking.

Click here to book your train tickets from Danang to Nha Trang and bus tickets from Nha Trang to Dalat

Day 20-21: Dalat

We rented two mountain bikes from our accommodation, Cam Ly homestay , to explore Da lat and its surroundings. Dalat is located in the mountains and there are many fun things to see and do.

Ho Xuan Huong Lake

On our first day in Dalat, we cycled around Ho Xuan Huong Lake, located in the heart of Dalat.

The Crazy House

Southwest of the lake you can find the Crazy House, a maze of stairs, and hidden passages in a Gaudi meets fairytale style.

The entrance fee for the Crazy House is 60.000VND per person. It's open every day of the week, from 8.30 am to 7 pm.

Did you know? Besides visiting the Crazy House, you can actually spend the night in one of the 10 unique themed rooms!

We wandered around the Crazy House for about an hour, before cycling to the train station of Dalat.

A train ride from Dalat to Trai Mat

At the pretty Dalat railway station, we got on a beautifully restored train, which brought us to Trai Mat, a little village about 7km away.

In the table below you can find the departure times, the ride from Dalat to Trai Mat (and vice versa) takes approximately 30 minutes.

A return train ticket from Dalat to Trai Mat costs 126.000VND per person

Linh Phuoc temple (Trai Mat)

In Trai Mat, we visited the unique Linh Phuoc temple. The main feature of the temple is the 7-meter high and 49-meter long dragon, which is made of 12.000 bottles!

After our visit to Trai Mat, we returned to Dalat on the historic train and cycled back to our homestay.

Datanla Falls

On our second day in Dalat, we cycled to the Datanla Falls (approximately 6km from town), a nice place to visit. The entrance fee to the Datanla Waterfalls is 30.000VND per person.

? Looking for an adventure? Go on an epic canyoning adventure at the Datanla Waterfalls! Check availability here .

Dalat Truc Lam Zen Monastery

We continued our Dalat itinerary and cycled to the Truc Lam Zen Monastery, located on top of a mountain. This serene complex has lovely gardens and beautiful buildings.

The Truc Lam Zen complex is a lovely place to relax and contemplate all the beautiful things you have seen so far on your trip to Vietnam.

Luckily the way back from the Truc Lam Zen Pagoda to Dalat was mostly downhill, we were pretty tired from climbing all the steep mountains!

? Take the Robin Hill Cable Car and enjoy more panoramic view of Dalat. Click here to buy cable car tickets .

Where to stay in Dalat on a budget

Our stay at Cam Ly Homestay in Dalat was lovely! When we arrived Tri, the owner, welcomed us by name and showed us to our room.

The room was spacious and light, with a comfortable bed (with mosquito net). It had a nice view of the Cam Ly stream and a small balcony.

I highly recommend joining one of the BBQ evenings; there is great food (homemade spring rolls!), and cheap beers and it's a great way to meet other travelers and exchange stories.

Day 22: Dalat to Ho Chi Minh City 

Tri, the kind owner of Cam Ly homestay , called the airport shuttle bus the day before our departure and the next morning the shuttle bus picked us up from the homestay (only 15 minutes late, which in Southeast Asia is considered right on time;-).

Liên Khương Airport is located about 30 km south of Dalat, so it wasn't a long bus ride and we arrived at the airport with plenty of time to check in.

The flight from Dalat to Ho Chi Minh was also very short, just 50 minutes. From Ho Chi Minh airport we took bus 152 to the city center.

On the bus, we had to buy one ticket for ourselves and one for our big backpacks.

Granted, these took up just as much space as the average Vietnamese person. And when a ticket costs a mere 5000 VND you can't really complain anyway.

Click here to book a flight to Ho Chi Minh

The word that immediately comes to mind when I think about Ho Chi Minh City is organized chaos.

The rule when crossing the street isn’t ‘ Walk when the traffic light is green ’ but ‘Don’t mind the color of the traffic light, just cross slowly but surely and maintain eye contact all the time’ . 

Whatever you do: don’t stop!

It still amazes me that I have only seen one traffic incident in my month in Vietnam, so despite the chaos, it all seems to work out pretty well.

There are many things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, as well as in the surrounding area.

I really wanted to visit the Independence Palace (pictured above), the home and office of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

Unfortunately, it was closed during our visit, but it's usually open daily from 8 am to 4 pm.

We also visited the Mariamman Hindu temple , the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Saigon Central Post Office (pictured below).

The post office was definitely my favorite building, I loved the symmetry on the inside of this beautiful place.

Other places we visited in Ho Chi Minh were the War Remnant Museum and the Cu Chi tunnels (about 40 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City).

Visit the War Remnant Museum

When you are in Vietnam, you’ll inevitably come across some vivid reminders of the Vietnam War such as disabled people and bombed buildings.

If you are in Ho Chi Minh City, a visit to the War Remnants Museum is a must. This impressive museum tells a terrible story. It's not a place to visit with young children, as the stories and pictures are truly horrible.

There are disturbing images of entire villages being massacred, pictures of prisoners being tortured, and photos of napalm victims.

Altogether, visiting the War Remnants Museum is extremely depressing. However, when you are in Ho Chi Minh City, you must visit this place and learn about the Vietnam War and what war does to people.

There are no winners in war, only pain, and loss…

The entrance fee is 40.000VND per person and the museum is open daily from 7:30 am until 6 pm.

Take a tour of the Cu Chi tunnels

We took a tour of the Cu Chi tunnels , another vivid reminder of the Vietnam War.

This 200km network of extremely cramped underground tunnels was constructed and used by the Vietcong during the war to fight the Americans with a guerrilla tactic.

When we descended into the tunnels, which have already been widened for tourists, I almost panicked (I am a little claustrophobic) and went back up.

But I felt that, if people lived there for almost 10 years, I should be able to crawl a mere 100 meters through the cramped, hot, dark tunnel with little fresh oxygen.

I was so relieved when I got out and so impressed by the tenacity of the people who had called these tunnels home for years…

Click here for more information about the Cu Chi tunnels tour .

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City on a budget

Our stay at Thao Nhi Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City was good. We got a free upgrade to a bigger room and the hotel is run by very friendly staff.

The hotel serves delicious and affordable food and is located close to all the sights (in a small street just off the main backpacker street).

Day 26: Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc (by plane)

While it was a long day, it was an easy travel day. We took the local bus (#152) back to the airport, where we had to wait for a couple of hours as our flight was delayed.

Luckily, the flight from Ho Chi Minh to Phu Quoc island was only one hour and there was a taxi waiting for us upon arrival.

The airport is located in the middle of nowhere and arranging a taxi via your accommodation before arrival is recommended, particularly when you are arriving late in the evening.

Click here to book a flight to Phu Quoc

We spent three days in Phu Quoc , which was the perfect way to end our Vietnam travel route. On Phu Quoc, we rented a scooter for a couple of days and explored the beautiful island.

If you plan to travel to Phu Quoc during peak season (December-March), I recommend booking a scooter in advance to make sure there's one available for your trip.

Where to stay in Phu Quoc on a budget

Fortuna Hotel was another lovely place to stay. The rooms are lovingly decorated and spotlessly clean, with private bathrooms.

From the hotel, it's a 20-minute drive to Duong Dong, the main town in Phu Quoc. Not a problem if you rent a scooter but something to keep in mind when booking this hotel.

Alternative Vietnam itineraries (7 and 10 days + 2 and 3 weeks)

Vietnam itinerary 7 days.

If you just have 1 week in Vietnam, don’t worry! While you cannot see everything the country has to offer, you can get a taste and feel of the country.

Here is my suggestion for a 1 week Vietnam itinerary:

• Day 1-2:  Explore Hanoi and eat your way around this lively cit y
• Day 3:  Make a day trip from Hanoi (such as the Perfume Pagoda, or Hao Lu and Tam Coc )
• Day 3:  Take a flight to Danang and travel to Hoi An
• Day 4-5:  Explore Hoi An
• Day 6: Make a trip to My Son or a bicycle tour around Hoi An
• Day 7: Fly home from Danang

Vietnam itinerary 10 days

This 10-day Vietnam itinerary includes buzzing Hanoi, the imperial city Hue, and fairytale town Hoi An, but also the two most beautiful natural sights: Halong Bay and Tam Coc.

• Day 1:  Explore Hanoi and eat delicious street food
• Day 2-3: Make a cruise in Halong Bay
• Day 4:  Hanoi + take a night train to Hue
• Day 5-6:  Explore Hue + transfer to Hoi An on day 6
• Day 7-8:  Visit the historic buildings in Hoi An
• Day 9: Make a trip to My Son
• Day 10: Fly home from Danang

Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks

If you have 2 weeks in Vietnam, I’d recommend traveling either from North to South or vice versa. Your 2 week Vietnam itinerary could look like this:

• Day 1-2:  Explore Hanoi and sample some excellent street food
• Day 3: Make a day trip to Tam Coc
• Day 5-6:  Hue + transfer to Hoi An on day 6
• Day 7-8:  Explore the historic buildings in Hoi An
• Day 9: Make a trip to My Son or explore the countryside around Hoi An by bike
• Day 10: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City from Danang
• Day 11-12: Ho Chi Minh and a trip to the Cu Chu tunnels
• Day 12-14: Phu Quoc island

This itinerary for Vietnam in 2 weeks is especially suitable for people looking to travel in one direction instead of a loop.

Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks

With this 3 weeks Vietnam itinerary, you get to experience very different sides of Vietnam. You'll explore several interesting cities, spend a night in Halong Bay, and get to relax in tropical Phu Quoc.

For this 3 week Vietnam itinerary, I suggest the following route:

• Day 1-2: Eat your way around Hanoi
• Day 3-4 : Make a cruise in Halong Bay
• Day 5: Day tour to the Perfume Pagoda
• Day 6-7: Day trip to the  Hoa Lu and Tam Coc
• Day 11-13:  Explore Hoi An Old Town
• Day 14: Make a day trip to My Son
• Day 15: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City from Danang
• Day 16-17: Ho Chi Minh and a trip to the Cu Chu tunnels
• Day 18-21: Explore Phu Quoc island

The best Vietnam itinerary: in conclusion

I hope this Vietnam travel guide and sample itineraries will inspire you to visit Vietnam and help you plan your trip.

If you have any questions, leave a comment below or send me a message . Also read these posts for more Vietnam travel inspiration:

• 10 interesting facts about Vietnam
• 50 unique things to do in Vietnam
• Authentic things to do in Hanoi
• Backpacking Guide to Vietnam
• Hang Son Doong: the world’s largest cave
• Planning a trip to Vietnam
• Sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh city
• The best Halong Bay cruises
• Things to do in Hoi An
• Things to do in Phong Nha
• Things to know before traveling by night train in Vietnam

This post was updated in November 2022.

Tuesday 20th of December 2022

Thank you for this. Very informative and quite helpful.

Wednesday 21st of December 2022

Thanks so much Kevin for letting me know:-) Have a great trip to Vietnam en let me know if there's anything you need help with! Lotte

Friday 18th of November 2016

I love that you spend a week in Hoi An LOL :) I did the same! Hoi An is such a cute place with nice food and things to see plus an amazing beach! Phu Quoc island looks wonderful, i had no time for that, maybe some other time? x

Haha Hoi An is so relaxing, I loved the vibe... Phu Quoc was definitely nice, I'm curious to see how the island has developed in the past 2 years. There was talk of direct flights from Russia and China so it might be very different now.

Tuesday 10th of May 2016

Great post, I love that you documented the prices too. We're going to Vietnam in two weeks and we haven't chosen our full itinerary yet so your article is a great inspiration!

Hey Laure, thanks so much for your comment! I am happy to hear my post gave you inspiration for your upcoming trip and helped you plan. Have an amazing journey through Vietnam, I am sure you'll have a great time:-)

Friday 5th of February 2016

A Dutch friend of ours actually moved to Vietnam a couple of years ago and we are invited to come over, however we still haven't made it. We really should, one day...

Awesome! It's always really cool to be shown around by somebody who actually lives there and who can take you to off the beaten track places!

Wednesday 3rd of February 2016

Ik zou het geweldig vinden om Vietnam te bezoeken. Ik zou dan een reis maken en alle overblijfselen en memorials van de Vietnam oorlog bezoeken, maar natuurlijk ook de prachtige natuur en stadjes! Als ik deze foto's zie, wil ik alleen nog maar meer gaan! Grappig he, dat je beleving van temperatuur zo veel anders kan zijn dan de personen die daar wonen. Gaan wij in de winter naar Marokko bv. dan doen wij luchtige kleding aan, terwijl zij helemaal ingepakt zijn. Kom je van de Fillipijnen af, bevries je weer zowat in Vietnam. Zo te zien heeft het je reisplezier niet nadelig beinvloed!

Vietnam is ook zeker qua historie een bijzonder land om te bezoeken... Ik vond het Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum heel bijzonder net als de Cu Chi tunnels en het War Remnant Museum. En reizen is eigenlijk bij alle temperature leuk, zolang het maar droog is;-)

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Vietnam is becoming a popular tourist destination, for both budget backpackers and families alike. With pristine beaches, adventurous canyoning, and breathtaking scenery like striking mountains and lush jungles, it’s easy to see why! And with this 1 month Vietnam itinerary , you can be sure to get the best of it all.

Psst. This post contains affiliate links. Read our disclosure .

Updated January 2023

For backpackers on a budget, it’s easy to spend very little on food, drinks, and activities when backpacking Vietnam. Beer is usually just a couple dollars or less and street food can be as little as $1-2 .

And for families looking for something fun to do, there’s no shortage of ocean activities or inland adventures .

Vietnam is a country that literally has something for everyone!

So, whether you’re looking to spend a while in Vietnam or just a couple weeks, this 30-day Vietnam itinerary will help you plan out your adventure .

Be ready for some crazy sightings, beautiful scenery, hectic cities, stunning culture, and more!

Table of Contents

The Best 1 Month Vietnam Itinerary

Short summary:

• Hanoi: 3-4 days
• Sapa: 2-3 days
• Halong Bay: 2-3 days
• Ninh Binh: 1-2 days
• Phong Nha: 2-3 days
• Hue: 1-2 days
• Hoi An: 2-3 days
• Da Lat: 2-3 days
• Mui Ne: 2-3 days
• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): 3-4 days

If you spend the maximum days suggested in each city, it adds up to 30 days. Or one full month in Vietnam .

Although, that is just a suggested itinerary, as you most definitely have the option to change and modify it as you wish! For example, if you don’t really like Hue, only spend one day there. Or if you really like Mui Ne, spend more than 3 days there.

All in all, this itinerary is just a general itinerary  for exploring the country of Vietnam. Use it as an outline or just read up on the cities and decide which ones sound good for you!

Preparing for Your Vietnam Trip

So after you’ve decided to visit Vietnam, you’ll need to sort out your 30-day visa and flights . (More on that below.)

Flying into Hanoi is simple and the airport is easy to navigate. My travel buddies and I decided to take on Vietnam by going north to south and I wouldn’t do it any differently. (In fact, I did it again not too long ago! Still the best route in my opinion.)

Our first stop on our Vietnam one month itinerary was Hanoi and our last stop was Ho Chi Minh City. Thus, my first choice for future travelers would be to start your adventure in Hanoi and make your way down the country.

Although, you could go at it backwards by starting in HCMC and making your way north. It’s all fantastic no matter which way you begin!

Furthermore, before you go, check out my tips on how to prepare for any Southeast Asia trip !

Hanoi, Vietnam

The city of Hanoi is one of the most ancient capitals in the world , harboring a plethora of cultural sites like ancient pagodas, colonial buildings, unique museums, and more.

But the city not only has cultural sites, it also has a fantastic street food scene , a vibrant nightlife, wonderful locals, crazy markets, and unusual shopping.

Where to stay :

• BUDGET: Vietnam Backpackers Hostel – Downtown // Hanoi City Backpackers Hostel
• MID-RANGE: Hanoi Diamond King Hotel // Hangmy Boutique Hotel
• LUXURY: Trang Trang Premium Hotel // Grande Collection Hotel & Spa

What to do :  10 Things to Do in Hanoi, Vietnam

You can read the post above (which goes into more detail) but here’s a short summary:

• Visit the Hanoi Hòa Lò Prison Museum.
• Take a stroll by Hoàn Kiem Lake.
• See the Ngoc Son Temple (Temple of the Jade Mountain).
• Go to the Women’s Museum.
• See strange things at the weekend market (Friday, Saturday, & Sunday).
• Try some egg coffee.
• Go inside St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
• View the wondrous Bach Ma Temple.
• Visit the National Museum of Vietnamese History.
• Or just venture around the streets.

Where to Eat Vegan in Hanoi:

• Vegan Bahn Mi – Food Cart
• Bahn Mi 25 (some of the best bahn mi I’ve ever had!)
• Veggie Castle (super duper cheap vegan buffet)
• Gioia Gelati (for a sweet treat, this place has  amazing vegan gelato)
• For some chill drinks and an awesome nightlife experience, check out Hanoi’s Beer Street !

Interested in going on a tour in Hanoi to learn all about this cool city? The Hanoi Highlights Small Group Tour with Get Your Guide has raving reviews! Click here to check it out now .

Sapa, Vietnam

Sapa, Vietnam is one of my most treasured places I’ve ever been to and it will always have a small piece of my heart . With the lush mountains, shimmering rice paddies, friendly tribes, and breathtaking views, Sapa will surely hold a place at the top of your favorite destinations list.

You could easy spend a week roaming around here, either hiking for days in the mountains or exploring the area by motorbike.

Although, I recommend 2-3 days . This gives you enough time to hike the area, motorbike near and far, and get to know the locals you will stay with.

No doubt, the best accommodations for Sapa are at a homestay . This means you’ll be staying with a local family who live and thrive in the hills of Sapa, Vietnam.

They’re also the most friendly people I’ve ever met! Whilst there, my friends and I stayed at The Little Hmong House and the family went out of their way to make our stay incredibly special! It was amazing.

• BUDGET: Hoa’s homestay Sapa  // The Little Hmong House Homestay
• MID-RANGE: Amica House // Cơmlam Eco House
• LUXURY: Sapa Eco Bungalows & Spa // Sapa Eco Villas & Spa

What to do :

• Hike around to nearby waterfalls.
• Chill out and just enjoy the view.
• Rent a motorbike and cruise around the mountains.
• Hire a local guide to take you around Sapa.

Don’t want to plan a trip to Sapa on your own? Check out this 2-day Sapa tour from Hanoi , including free pick-up and drop-off, transfers, accommodations, and a beautiful trek with a local guide! Click here to view the tour .

Where to Eat Vegan in Sapa:

So, truth be told, I never actually stayed in Sapa! And you won’t either if you choose to stay at a rural homestay (which you should!). Good thing is, if you’re vegan, most of the time the homestay will do a family dinner and they’ll happily make vegan options!

While staying at The Little Hmong House Homestay , they made me fried tofu, rice, fried veggie spring rolls, sautéed veggies, and more! It was delicious.

Overwhelmed by the Vietnam visa process? Get yours through iVisa — the visa professionals! With just a small fee and a lot less stress, you can have your visa in no time. Click here to get yours online .

Emerald waters that’ll take your breath away, limestone karsts of all different shapes and sizes jutting out of the sea; striking views , and big bays packed with lively junk boats , filled with fun and friendly backpackers.

Halong Bay is definitely a must-visit destination on this month-long Vietnam itinerary!

There’s nowhere else like it in the world. And it’s the 7th new world wonder of nature ! Or so the internet says … but anyhow, it’s absolutely stunning and a ridiculously unique place to visit in Vietnam.

From Hanoi, visitor’s can book a 1 night/2 day or 2 night/3 day tour with multiple tour companies. We ended up going with the Vietnam Backpackers Castaway Tour and it was fantastic!

Our days were filled with boat chilling, partying at night, exploring in the day, hiking, eating good food, and more. Bonus: you also get to stay on an amazing island for however many nights you book! Usually in an 8-bed hut, which is pretty large and really clean.

You can check out the castaway tour here .

Or, if you don’t want to do a party tour, take a look at these three luxurious tours that’ll blow you away:

• Halong Bay Cruise: 3 Days, 2 Nights with Rosa Cruise 3 Star
• From Hanoi: Bai Tu Long Bay 2-Day Cruise
• Elite of the Seas: 2d/1n High-End Halong Bay Tour (Watch a video for this one here ! It’s AMAZING.)

Where to Eat Vegan in Halong Bay:

If you do any sort of tour you’ll be subject to a buffet style breakfast, lunch, and dinner. But, similar to Sapa, the organizers happily accommodated for my dietary preferences. I splurged on fried noodles, tofu, spring rolls, and more!

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Ninh Binh is no doubt a gem in Vietnam , yet it is overlooked by many travelers.

The area holds one of the most majestic and breathtaking natural landscapes in all of Southeast Asia. With the hundreds of striking limestone karsts jutting out of the land, some call it the Halong Bay of inland Vietnam .

Since it is not packed with tons of tourists, Ninh Binh allows travelers to get a little peek into the lives of rural Vietnamese life.

It’s also best explored on your own wheels , whether it be on a pedal bike or a motorbike. I highly recommend a motorbike, as there are some temples away from the main town that are absolutely amazing!

• BUDGET: The Banana Tree Hostel // Ninh Binh Central Backpackers Hostel
• MID-RANGE: Trang An Eco Homestay // Green Mountain Homestay
• LUXURY: Tam Coc Holiday Hotel & Villa // Tam Coc Wonderland Bungalow
• Go on a Tam Coc River ride, where the driver pedal the boat with their feet.
• Hike up the 482 steps to the Hang Múi and Hang Múi Cave.
• Visit the Bich Dong Pagoda where you can visit three ancient pagodas.
• See some beautiful scenery at the Van Long Nature Reserve.
• View the Hoa Lu Temples.

Where to Eat Vegan in Ninh Binh: 

• Chookies Hideaway (some of the BEST pizza I’ve ever had! Just make sure to ask for no cheese on the veggie one 😉. My travel buddies and I loved this place so much we ate here 3 times in two day.)

Curious to know where I book my flights and how I save money on buying tickets? Click here to check out my favorite flight booking sites for cheap tickets !

Phong Nha, Vietnam

Located in the majestic Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park , the area is surrounded by lush, green mountains with a network of stunning caves, waterfalls, and rivers.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site  in 2003, this national park contains some of the oldest karst mountains in Asia, forming approximate 400 million years ago!

The area is littered with a multitude of vast river systems and enormous caves, just begging to be explored!

Although, there are only a handful of caves that really stand out to travelers, the main one being the Son Doong Cave . Know as the largest cave in the world at more than 5km long, the cave was only recently discovered and opened to visitors in 2013.

Just imagine this… less people have seen the inside of the Son Doong Cave than the top of Mount Everest! Crazy, right?! Although, if you don’t have a spare $3,000 lying around to pay for the expedition there, you still have an array of other magnificent caves to explore.

From the longest cave in the world, the Paradise Cave , to the full-day expedition including a mud bath, swimming, zip-lining, and more at the Dark Cave .

In Phong Nha, it’s completely up to you how many or how little caves you want to dig deep in! No doubt, a must-do destination when spending a month in Vietnam. Any wild adventurer or adrenaline-junkie will be in heaven here!

• BUDGET: Central Backpackers Hostel – Phong Nha
• MID-RANGE: Nguyen Shack – Phong Nha Eco Resort // Lucky Homes
• LUXURY: Phong Nha Lake House Resort  // Victory Road Villas
• Go caving: Paradise Cave, Phong Nha Cave, Dark Cave, and the Tien Son Cave.
• Hike at the nearby Botanical Garden (which essentially a section of the jungle where you can trek around).
• Go to the Eight Ladies’ Cave.

Psst, I LOVE Phong Nha and it’s magical caves but… it’s essential to have a good camera to get quality photos, as the caves are a bit dark (as you can imagine!). That’s why I always travel with my handy dandy Sony a5000 mirrorless camera — small, compact, easy to carry, and awesome quality photos!

Where to Eat Vegan in Phong Nha: 

• Phong Nha Vegan
• Tree House Cafe
• Phong Nha Bamboo Cafe
• YOUandME Restaurant

Hue, Vietnam

Unlike many other cities throughout this 1 month itinerary for Vietnam, Hue isn’t necessarily a cultural hub. Considering all of its historical and finest building were destroyed during the American War, it now holds a more modern touch .

Although, Hue has a long and royal history, since it was home to the Nguyen Dynasty. Thus, Hue is often referred to as “ Vietnam’s Imperial City .”

Due to its imperial history , most of the things to do in Hue revolve around it. But the city also holds another interesting side, as wandering visitors riding around on motorbikes can uncover an abandoned waterpark .

Looking like the inside of a crashed spaceship , the abandoned waterpark boasts a towering dragon jutting out of the middle of a man-made lake.

Walking inside the dragon, you’ll find it holds striking glass shards scattered around the floor from broken fish tanks, as it used to be an aquarium.

There’s also abandoned pools filled with murky waters, lonely waterslides packed with dried leaves, and graffitied-up water toys sprinkled throughout.

• BUDGET: Vietnam Backpackers Hostel – Hue // Amy 2 Hostel
• MID-RANGE: Than Thien – Friendly Hotel // Jade Scene Hotel
• LUXURY: Gardenia Hue Hotel // Hue Serene Palace Hotel
• Visit the Abandoned Waterpark (more on that below).
• Take a stroll through the Imperial City.
• Go to some Imperial Tombs, the Tombs of the Emperors.
• Explore the Thien Mu Pagoda.
• Stroll down the Perfume River.
• Visit the bunkers from the Vietnam War.

Where to Eat Vegan in Hue: 

• Tịnh Tâm Vegan
• Red Chili (not a vegan restaurant but some of the best mock meat I’ve ever had!)
• QUÁN CHAY THANH LIỄU
• An Nhien Coffee

TIP : If you’re traveling to Hoi An next, don’t miss out on the Hai Van Pass ! It’s an extraordinary adventure where you can rent a motorbike and do the 4-5 hour journey yourself. You just rent a motorbike through a place in Hue, which also have a second rental place in Hoi An, and return it when you arrive. It’s awesome!

Want to learn more about this abandoned waterpark in South East Asia? Even though you can’t visit ( or can’t you… hint hint ), you can still click here to check out my cool post on it !

Hoi An, Vietnam

Just imagine this… you’re walking down a quaint little street in Vietnam, friendly locals sharing small smiles with you, while the smells of Vietnamese Pho waft around, tempting you for a taste.

As you continue to wander around, you see a soft glow beckoning a peek. You come across hundreds of lanterns , scattered around the whole of the little city center.

It’s extraordinary; you feel as though there’s truly magic in the air.

That’s what Hoi An is like.

Or at least that’s how it was for me! A little magical town in hidden along the coast of Vietnam. It’s unbelievable and no doubt one of my favorite places on this 30 day Vietnam itinerary! It should not be missed.

But that’s not all the city is known for, it’s also known for it’s impressive tailoring . Throughout Hoi An, you can find hundreds, if not thousands, of custom tailor shops.

You can get anything from a professional suit to a formal dress made to your measurements. And it only takes about a day!

• BUDGET: Bed Station Hostel & Pool Bar // Backhome Hostel & Bar
• MID-RANGE: Azumi Villa (we stayed here and LOVED it!) // Volar de Faifo Villa
• LUXURY: Anio Boutique Hotel Hoian // Almanity Hoi An Wellness Resort
• Wander the city center at night to see the beautiful lanterns.
• Soak up some sun rays at the nearby beaches.
• Have a piece of clothing (or an entire new closet) custom tailored.
• Rent a bicycle and ride around in the quaint streets of Hoi An.
• Just chill out, because Hoi An is totally laid back and everything seems to be more relaxed here.

Where to Eat Vegan in Hoi An:

• Ba Dam Vegetarian Restaurant
• Lê Hội Bánh MÌ Chay (Le Hoi Vegan Banh Mi)
• An Hy Vegetarian Restaurant
• Chickpea Eatery
• Tam Quang Minh (a hot spot for locals and absolutely delicious — plus super cheap!)

Want to ride down a river in a circular boat, exploring the local market and picking up fresh food for your personal cooking class? If that’s a hell yes, take a look at this cool Hoi An tour !

Heading to Bali, too? Make sure to read this: 10 Essential Things to Pack for Bali, Indonesia

Da Lat, Vietnam

Known for being adventurists’  and adrenaline-junkies dream destination, Da Lat is filled with tons of different canyoning excursions and hiking trails.

And unlike the rest of Vietnam, Da Lat has more spring-like weather , rather than its normal humid, hot weather. So it’s absolutely perfect for getting outdoors and breathing in some fresh, mountainous air!

But that’s not all this place has to offer.

In addition to the many outdoor activities, it’s also a great destination for temple hunting , waterfall chasing , motorbike ventures , coffee plantation exploring , and admiring the beautiful French-Colonial architecture .

There’s definitely no shortage of things to do in Da Lat and it shouldn’t be missed when traveling Vietnam in a month!

• BUDGET: DaLat Sky Hostel // Dalat Happy Hostel
• MID-RANGE: BKV Homestay // Tulip Hotel
• LUXURY: Lamarque Dalat Villa // The Green House Da Lat 2
• Experience a canyoning adventure.
• Rent a motorbike and venture around.
• Seek out nearby waterfalls.
• Try some awesome coffee at one of the many nearby plantations.
• Visit the beautiful Da Lat Flower Park.
• Check out the Trúc Lâm Temple.
• Seek out some weirdness at the Crazy House.
• View one of the largest Buddhas at the Linh Sơn Pagoda.

Where to Eat Vegan in Dalat:

• Vegan House
• Guru Chay Restaurant & Coffee
• Từ Sen vegetarian and cafe
• QUÁN HOÀNG NHI – Ẩm Thực Chay Đà Lạt

Mui Ne, Vietnam

Mui Ne is of my favorite destinations in this month long Vietnam itinerary, although I didn’t get nearly enough time to spend there!

What used to be a small, unknown fishing village, Mui Ne has turned into a backpackers sunny haven.

As one of the sunniest places in Vietnam , with an average of only around 46 rainy days per year (unheard of for Vietnam!), Mui Ne is a great place to spend a few days relaxing by the beach or pool, soakin’ up some Vitamin D.

And even though Mui Ne is worth a couple days because of it’s sunny weather, that’s not all this great destination has to offer! There’s also something strange about this place.

Just about 25 minutes down the road from Mui Ne, there are massive   red and white sand dunes !

The red dunes are spectacular but the white sand dunes are the real gem of Mui Ne. Ocean winds sweep the breathtaking dunes into desert-esque formations, no doubt blowing the minds of anyone who visits.

Additionally, there’s also a magical place in Mui Ne called the Fairy Stream .

Imagine this… a shallow stream, filled with crystal clear waters, zig-zaging and twisting its way through colorful sand canyons and lush bamboo forests. It’s like another world!

• BUDGET: Mui Ne Hills Backpackers // iHome Backpacker Resort
• MID-RANGE: Mui Ne Hills Villa Hotel // La Marina Boutique Hotel & Spa
• LUXURY: Bamboo Village Beach Resort & Spa // Sailing Club Resort Mui Ne
• Stroll down the magical Fairy Stream.
• Visit the other-worldly sand dunes.
• Chill on the beach and soak up some Vitamin D.
• Visit the nearby fishing villages for a local feel.
• Relax by the pool at one of the many hostels that have ’em.
• Go crazy and ride around on an ATV at the sand dunes.

Where to Eat Vegan in Mui Ne: 

• Lovegan (Thực Dưỡng Chay Thiện An)
• El Cafe Vegetarian Foods (not the best vegan food in the world, but good options!)
• YoYo Vegetarian Food
• Feed Your Soul
• Phap duyen vegetarian restaurant

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam

As the largest city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) has no shortage of things to do. Although, before I arrived I didn’t think I’d really like HCMC, since it seemed similar to Bangkok (which, in my opinion, sucks).

But when I arrived and spent my first few hours wandering around the city, it actually grew on me!

Even though it’s a  huge city with hundreds of thousands of people, it didn’t feel like a big city. Not really. Considering it has a lot of greenery, like spacious parks and lots of  beautiful trees , it didn’t feel so constricted or packed together. Which was awesome!

There’s also a wide variety of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. With a multitude of museums , cute coffee cafes , a plethora of cultural sites , great shopping , and a wild nightlife , it’s easy to spend a few days here!

• BUDGET: City Backpackers Hostel // 9 Hostel & Bar
• MID-RANGE: Triple E Hotel Metro Ben Thanh // Calista Sai Gon Hotel
• LUXURY: Silverland Yen Hotel // Orchids Saigon Hotel
• Visit the Cú Chi Tunnels – a maze of wartime tunnels and relics.
• View Independence Palace.
• Admire the architecture of the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica.
• Experience the craziness of the Ben Thanh Market.
• Have your eyes metaphorically opened at the War Remnants Museum.
• View HCMC from above at one of the many sky bars.
• Visit the beautiful Saigon Botanical Gardens.
• Take stroll through Tao Dan Park.
• Visit the beautiful Saigon Central Post Office.
• Check out the breathtaking French Colonial Ho Chi Minh City hall.

Where to Eat Vegan in Ho Chi Minh City: 

• Veggie Saigon (awesome bahn mi and refreshing passionfruit juice!)
• Filthy Vegan
• Mang’s Mania
• SEN Vegan Restaurant
• Nha Hang Chay Sen (really convincing mock meats and delicious fried “chicken”)
• Hum Vegetarian, Café & Restaurant
• Shamballa Vegetarian, Restaurant & Tea House

If you’re interested in visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels and riding down the Mekong Delta all in one day, take a look at this Ho Chi Minh City VIP day tour !

Backpacking Vietnam FAQs

How to get around vietnam.

When I first created this one month itinerary for Vietnam, I received so many inquiries on what the best way to get around Vietnam is.

Without a doubt, my tried and tested way (which I tested again on another second one-month backpacking trip in Vietnam last year) is hopping around the country by bus.

Whether you’re going 3 hours down the road to a new location or doing an overnight 12 hour journey, there’s a bus that’ll take you there. And the buses are all super duper cheap, too.

I’m talking like $7-10 for a pretty long bus ride!

Plus, they’re surprisingly comfortable. Most buses have three rows of semi-reclined seats, meaning you get your own chair/bed.

Also, many will have free WiFi, which I was super surprised and stoked to discover! (Psst, if the WiFi password is nowhere to be found, try 12345678 . 😉)

To book buses, just ask the hostel or hotel you’re staying at. They usually have a contact who can set you up with where you need to go.

Things to Consider : Buses are not for those who are short on time. Since Vietnam is a rather long country, bus journeys can be pretty lengthy. I’m talking like a 12-14 hour bus ride from Hoi An to Dalat. So, that’s just something to keep in mind!

Is 1 Month Enough for Vietnam?

Personally, I think one month in Vietnam is plenty of time!

If you stick to an itinerary like the one I’ve mentioned here, you will still have enough time to see lots of great attractions, do countless Vietnam activities, and chill out on days you don’t feel like doing anything.

Also, this one month Vietnam itinerary doesn’t rush things. For me, I hate feeling rushed or feeling as though I’m constantly on the move. I like days where I can simply relax on the beach or in a hammock reading a book. I think this itinerary achieves!

If you like to do and see more than the average backpacker, definitely add your own destinations to this Vietnam itinerary. Some recommendations would be Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc.

What is the Best Month to Visit Vietnam?

The two separate times I backpacked Vietnam, I went in March and August. March was really nice, with cooler weather in the north and warm weather in the south. August was hot and humid (I honestly don’t think I’ve ever been that sweaty before).

If you’re trying to figure out what time of the year you should visit Vietnam, I would recommend sticking to spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November).

However, anytime of the year you visit will be great, as the weather varies quite a bit from north to south.

How Much Does it Cost to Backpack Vietnam for One Month?

Ah, the golden question, eh?!

How much do you budget for a month in Vietnam is one of the biggest questions when planning a trip to this magical Southeast Asia country.

While every backpacker is going to spend something different when traveling Vietnam, I’ll give you a general outline of what I spent as a bouncing backpacker with a not-so-big budget.

On my first trip to Vietnam, I spent about $960 for the month. This is about $32/day on average. Not too bad!

On my second Vietnam backpacking trip, I ended up spending just a little bit less, around $900 , due to not going on the full 2-night/3-day Halong Bay trip (Cat Ba Island is cheaper, yet still just as amazing!) and splitting most private rooms with the wanderful husband.

This works out to about $30/day in total.

To breakdown the costs even further to help you better plan your Vietnam budget, here’s what typical things cost:  

• Hostels: $6-10 per night, depending on the quality of the hostel. This number can vary widely though; a hostel we stayed at in Mui Ne cost $2/night (yeah, that’s not a typo!) and a hostel we stayed at in Hanoi cost around $10.
• Hotels: While hotels cost a bit more than hostels, it can work out in your favor if there’s two of you, as you can split the costs. Dan and I found private hotel rooms cost about $12-15 per night (so, $6-8 per person).
• Food: Street food in Vietnam is ridiculously cheap. I’m talking like $2-3 for a full-on, stuff your stomach meal. Though, as a vegan, I struggle to find street food I can actually eat in Vietnam, but nonetheless, restaurant food is still cheap! Working out to around $5-6 per meal.
• Beer : With beer being the choice drink among many backpackers, figured I’d include a bullet of how much one tends to spend on beer! In most cases, beer will cost about 30,000 VND-50,000 VND ($1.30-2.15 USD). Although, sometimes you can get it for as little as 10,000 VND ($.50 USD)!
• Transportation: As mentioned above, buses are definitely the way to go when doing 1 month in Vietnam! Though bus duration times can vary widely, you’ll find that most cost around $5-7. Additionally, you’ll want to use apps like Uber and Grab to get around cities, which are  super affordable! Typically, a 10-15 minute ride won’t cost more than a few dollars.

Travel Tips for Visiting Vietnam

Get travel insurance ().

This is a HUGE must-do.

If you’re traveling without reputable travel insurance , you’re putting yourself at unnecessary risk. So many unexpected things can happen when traveling, especially in Vietnam where things are especially chaotic!

Thus, I always recommend getting travel insurance. Sometimes, if you have a travel credit card you’ll automatically receive partial insurance, such as baggage loss and trip interruption coverage.

I personally use the Delta Amex Card , which comes with both baggage coverage AND rental car insurance — win!

Although, for full insurance (medical and otherwise), I personally use and trust World Nomads travel insurance.

They’ve covered me several times for unexpected situations, like that one time I lost my camera tripod when flying to Greece! They’re a bit more expensive but cover a plethora of activities, as well as expensive baggage items, like cameras.

Click Here to Get a Quote from World Nomads for Your Vietnam Trip

Alternatively, I recently used another travel insurance brand called SafetyWing and I’ve fallen in love!

Created for freelancers, nomads, backpackers, and all-around frequent travelers, SafetyWing is much more affordable than World Nomads and covers many of the same things (the only difference is the cost of the amount they cover per item and whatnot).

Click Here to Check Out SafetyWing

Don’t forget a vietnam visa.

This is an essential part of traveling to Vietnam! A visa is required for most travelers coming into Vietnam. Personally, to keep things easy peasy, my favorite way to get a visa is by having someone else do it for me!

Before I traveled to Vietnam I was in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and the hostel I was staying at provided visa services.

All I had to do was hand over my passport and $40, and fill out a small form. They took it to the Vietnam embassy for me — located within the city — and secured a 30-day Vietnam visa for me! Super duper easy.

On the flip side, you can obtain a Vietnam visa on arrival. I believe it costs $35 to do so!

There’s also an online form you fill out. However, while some travelers would disagree with me, I don’t really trust the online visa process for a visa-on-arrival.

Why? Because my travel buddy did the online visa form and had to pay twice. The immigration officers didn’t believe she already paid online. Not cool!

Alternatively, if those options aren’t for you, you can also pay a travel agency to send you a letter of invitation. This pretty much guarantees you’ll get a visa when you land in Vietnam!

Although it’s the priciest option, costing around $25 per person in addition to the $35 visa cost, this can take the stress of securing a Vietnam visa off your shoulders.

While you can do most of the Vietnam visa process yourself, why not hand it off to the professionals? Check the widget below to see if you need a visa. 

Trust Motorbikes Will Go Around You

So this is definitely a weird, but essential tip for Vietnam! This is most definitely a learning curve when traveling to Vietnam for the first time!

When walking across the streets, trust the motorbikes will go around you. A nice lady who was a Vietnam expert told me, “Walk across the road like a blind person.”

And I did. And it totally worked.

This was one thing that really shocked me while backpacking Southeast Asia… but it wasn’t the only thing! Click HERE  to read about 15 crazy things that shocked me while traveling SE Asia for the first time!

With this 1 month Vietnam itinerary , you can figure out how to manage the time you have in this beautiful country and plan out which cities you want to visit!

No doubt, you’ll fall in love with Vietnam just as I did, as there’s no other country like it in the world.

Are you planning a trip to Vietnam? Have any questions or concerns I didn’t answer in the Vietnam travel guide above? Let me know in the comments below and I’ll get back to you ASAP!

Not sure what to read next? Check out these related posts:

• Top 10 Incredible Experiences to Have in Vietnam
• 7 Incredible Things to Do in Vang Vieng, Laos
• The Ultimate Southeast Asia Backpacking Travel Guide
• Exploring the Wild Side of Sri Lanka on an Udawalawe Safari Jeep Tour
• 10 Great Things to Do in Hanoi

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Article comments.

This is an amazing itinerary!! I spent just over 3 weeks there – a month sounds better! <3 ;P

Oh my goodness, this looks incredible! What an amazing place to spend a whole month! We haven’t even made it to Asia yet but I keep saying that when we do, we’ll have to go for a few weeks at a time to really get the feel for such a different culture. This truly sounds amazing!

Aimee Horgan

Oh wow, we fell in love with Vietnam and this post is really bringing back the nostalgia for it. Such a detailed post, a lot of work must have went in to it. Lovely photos too.

Jacomijn Heupink

I loved Vietnam! Your itinerary shows really the best spots!! I did the canyoning in Dalat, really loved it!

Hey Sophie,

oh, woooow! You covered all the best places in Vietnam no doubt. Also awesome to see you covered the water park in hue. I would also include Da Nang, just next to Hoi An. I wrote my own piece of things to do in Vietnam.

We did a 3 months motor bike trip from Hanoi to HCMC and found so many lovely places, I just had to put them together. I will share your article now on Pinterest =)))

Safe travels, Matt

The Wanderful Me

That’s awesome, Matt! I absolutely loved Vietnam; the Abandoned Waterpark was one of my favorite locations so I definitely had to include it! And I would have loved to do a motorbike trip across Vietnam like you but, alas, I’m too much of a liability and would have definitely crashed it haha!

Thanks for all the great tips! Do you have any info on the best way to get to these destinations? 30 days packed with these locations and activities..but how much travel time from one place to the next? Any recommendations on whether its best to take trains/buses/flights etc.? Thanks!

Hi Julia! Typically, if you’re staying at a hostel or a homestay, the owners or managers will have a bus schedule for most locations! You can book through them most of the time, although most buses aren’t ever on time haha! For example, when I was staying in Hanoi, the hostel I mentioned can book the transportation for you and they take you to the bus station/stop as well (from what I can remember that is). Overall, I’d recommend taking buses to most destinations. They’re surprisingly comfortable, as you get your own half-reclining seat, and some of the buses have WiFi! Good tip: if there’s a password, try 12345678 😉

Thanks so much for replying, looking forward to some bus rides!

No problem! If you have any other questions about traveling through Vietnam, please don’t hesitate to ask 🙂 Hope you have an absolute fantastic time!

Hey there! I am looking to do something really similar. Just wondering about how you went from place to place. We were thinking of renting a motor bike from Hanoi and leaving it in Ho chi Minh. How did you guys do it? 🙂

Hey Mathilde! We just took buses from place to place 🙂 Most bus routes can be booked right through the hostels or hotels! Although, I talked to many who rented a motorbike for the journey and they LOVED it! Just make sure to wear a helmet and stay safe 😉

Hi, how did you get from Hoi An to Dalat? This is a cool guide but I have the feeling that traveling days have been left out and that you sometimes need to use a full day where you can’t explore the place or do activities.

Hey Jonas! Throughout my entire trip in Vietnam I traveled by bus and I found a lot of the time you can take overnight buses. From Hoi An to Dalat you can take an overnight/day bus which lasts around 19 hours. From what I remember, I spent 2 full days in Dalat. Also, for this itinerary, I put “X-X” days so you have a bit of wiggle room for both transportation and if you like a place and want to stay a bit longer 🙂 Ultimately, it’s just an outline of awesome places to visit and a general route you can take through the country!

Wow. We are leaving for Vietnam from Laos in 2 days and were planning our 1 month trip, coming across this article. Absolute kudos to you, this article is perfect! Easy summary of the itinerary at the top and each city has just enough info on why you should visit, plus the key items PLUS vegan food.

Thank you for taking the time to publish such a comprehensive, useful article! Lee

Hey Lee! I’m SO glad to hear you found value from this article! I really wanted to give travelers like you the ultimate deep dive into how to spend a month in Vietnam, which is such an awesome country to explore. I’d love to hear about your Vietnam trip after you’re done there! Definitely stop back and say how it went 🙂 I’m sure others would love to hear as well! Safe travels!

Heya, Thank you for such an informative Travel Blog!! I’m just wondering what time of year you travelled? My partner and I are booked in for July ( for a month) which I do understand is the rainy season. I have read in some places that its “off peak” and then in other places that its the high season. I also just wanted to know with bookings for hotels, hostels and activities etc, did you just arrive at most places and book? Thanks heaps for your time, Amba

Hey Amba! I’ve traveled Vietnam in both February and August. For most places, my travel buddies and I just showed up to book a room/bed or booked the day of! We never really booked a place ahead of time except for Sapa (which I think was the day before). But with that said, Vietnam is definitely becoming more and more popular, so if you find a place you want to stay I’d book it right away! Hope you have a great trip 🙂 Sophie xx

Hang Hacopian

Hi, this article it is well written and has helped me a lot.

Be beautiful! Be happy! 🙂 Kiss you All!

Benton Feibusch

I have read some good stuff here. Certainly worth bookmarking for revisiting. I wonder how much effort you place to make the sort of wonderful informative website.

zortilonrel

I’ve recently started a website, the info you offer on this website has helped me tremendously. Thanks for all of your time & work.

pilar gauthier

This is really interesting, You’re a very skilled blogger. I have joined your rss feed and look forward to seeking more of your fantastic post. Also, I have shared your web site in my social networks!

Hi Sophie Great website and month itinerary. We are planning a trip from 20 Feb -20 March, but we are a bit old for backpacking so will have to be more traditional. Once we plan out a route- likely to be reasonably similar to the one you describe (but HCM to Hanoi to get warmer weather north)- do you think we should book all hotels in advance? And bus tickets? What about trains? Any idea about conditions during their TET holiday period- should we try to avoid that- I think it starts on 10 Feb pls reply to my email if you can thanks yunus

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One Month in Vietnam: A Complete Itinerary

This complete one month Vietnam itinerary will take you on a journey from one end of the country to the other, showcasing all the highlights and must-sees along the way.

From magnificent mountains to pristine beaches, buzzing cities to fascinating culture, Vietnam is a country full of contrasts and one that will leave you utterly spellbound. It’s the perfect destination for budget-minded travellers, boasting wonderfully cheap street food, bargain hostels and lots of free activities.

This 1 month Vietnam itinerary will help you map out and plan your adventure. It contains a nice mix of cities, nature, beaches and history, enabling you to really see the best of what Vietnam has to offer. You’ll visit the magnificent Halong Bay, go trekking in the lush mountains at Sa Pa, explore energetic Hanoi, unwind in peaceful Hoi An, enjoy outdoor activities in Da Lat and so much more.

1 Month Vietnam Itinerary Overview Hanoi Halong Bay Sa Pa Tam Coc Hue Danang Hoi An Da Lat Ho Chi Minh City

Hanoi: 3 days

I’m going to assume your arrival point into Vietnam will be Hanoi. If you’ve come from the south into Ho Chi Minh City, then you can simply follow this itinerary in reverse order.

I’m usually not the biggest fan of Asian capitals, but I absolutely  adored Hanoi. It’s a city that I could see myself living in. 3 days in Hanoi is plenty of time to see all the key highlights.

Things to do in Hanoi

• Explore the markets, shops and restaurants around Hoàn Kiem Lake
• Go to a water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
• Coffee shop hop around Hanoi’s buzzing cafe scene
• Visit the Ngoc Son Temple
• Take a Vietnamese cooking class

Ha Long Bay: 2-3 days

A UNESCO world heritage site featuring limestone karst cliffs bursting out of glistening emerald waters; Ha Long Bay is simply mesmerising. The best way to see Ha Long Bay is by taking a boat tour. Tours usually range from 1 to 5 days, with longer tours taking you out to less-visited parts of the bay.

There are over 200 companies offering tours to Halong Bay, from crazy booze cruises, activity-based cruises, relaxed family cruises and everything in between.

It was a hard choice, but we eventually settled on a 3-day, 2-night adventure cruise.  We were taken kayaking and hiking in the national park and got to enjoy the scenery of the bay from the deck. I can wholeheartedly recommend this tour if you’re looking for more of an activity-based cruise, rather than one that’s centred around alcohol.

Things to do in Ha Long Bay

• Explore the bay by boat
• Go hiking in Cat Ba National Park
• Kayak in the caves and inlets of Cat Ba National Park

Sa Pa: 2-3 days

Imagine lush mountains, terraced rice fields and friendly locals — you’re in Sa Pa. Sa Pa is often used as a base to go trekking in the mountains, which I really recommend you do.

You can hire a tour guide to take you on a multi-day trek, where you’ll get to stay in homestays en route. Homestays are great because you get to learn about the local village and the way of life there. Or, if you’re up for a challenge, opt to climb Mount Fansipan — the tallest mountain in Indochina.

Things to do in Sa Pa

• Go trekking in the mountains
• Explore the countryside and villages by motorbike
• Stay in a homestay in a local village
• Visit waterfalls
• Climb Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina

Tam Coc: 2 days

Often dubbed “the Halong Bay of inland Vietnam,” Tam Coc is an exceptionally beautiful place to be. It’s often skipped by travellers to the country, so it’s not quite as busy as other destinations. However, it’s a true gem of northern Vietnam and one you shouldn’t miss.

A highlight of Tam Coc is taking a boat ride down the Ngo Dong river. Vietnamese ladies wait with their boats at the pier and row you down the river at a peaceful, relaxing pace, passing through striking mountains and deep caves.

Things to do in Tam Coc

• Explore the Ngo Dong river by boat
• Visit the Hoa Lu temples
• Hike to Hang Mui Cave
• Explore the Van Long Nature Reserve by bicycle

I wasn’t a huge fan of Hue — I felt it lacked character and held nothing of particular interest. However, there was one thing in Hue which really stood out to me: the abandoned water park.

Visitors are denied access now, but if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to sneak your way in. If sneaking into an abandoned water park isn’t your thing, there’s also an imperial city in Hue which was beautiful to visit, too.

Things to do in Hue

• Explore the imperial city
• Explore the abandoned water park
• Visit some pagodas
• Visit the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh

Da Nang: 2 days

Da Nang is a modern city known for its sandy beaches and French colonial architecture. Many travellers visit Da Nang only briefly to see the Marble Mountains — a magnificent cluster of 5 mountains, home to temples, caves and stunning views.

While there isn’t a ton to do here as a tourist, I would allow two days to explore the Marble Mountains, relax at the beach and perhaps visit the Bà Nà hills. Bà Nà hills is a mountaintop theme park resort designed like a 19th-century French village. It has a slightly high price tag, but it’s like being transported to an entirely different world.

Things to do in Da Nang

• Relax at the beach
• Hike up the Marble Mountains
• Visit the Dragon Bridge at night
• Visit Bà Nà hills

Hoi An: 3-4 days

I’ve not met anyone who didn’t love Hoi An . Imagine cobbled streets draped in lanterns, a languidly flowing river and countless quaint market stalls — it’s simply dazzling. So dazzling, in fact, that its old quarter has been listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. I could have spent so much longer in Hoi An but time wasn’t on my side.

Hoi An used to be a famous port city, and its architecture reflects the melting pot of cultures that came here to trade: Chinese, French, Vietnamese and Japanese influences can be seen all over. It’s also famous for its tailors — people come from all over the world to have clothes handmade in Hoi An.

Things to do in Hoi An

• Visit the My Son temples
• Relax by An Bang beach
• Wander around the ancient town
• Visit the Japanese covered bridge
• Take a street food tour
• Visit the town at night to see the lanterns lit up
• Chill out. The pace of life is slow and relaxed here.

Da Lat: 3-4 days

Modern with a local twist, Da Lat  was my favourite place in all of Vietnam. There’s so much to see here: a thriving cafe scene, beautiful countryside, stunning temples and adrenaline activities. Da Lat has everything I could wish for in a location, and I could even see myself living here.

Things to do in Da Lat

• Go canyoning
• Visit a coffee plantation
• Wander around the lake
• Explore the waterfalls
• Have a drink at the maze bar
• Visit Linh An Tu Pagoda and Happy Buddha
• Stroll through Da Lat Flower Park

Tip: I recommend that you stay at Mr Peace Backpacker’s House while in Da Lat. This was such a lovely hostel, and the owner was incredibly friendly, greeting me like an old friend as I walked through the door for the first time. A “family dinner” is arranged every night — a brilliant way to get to know other backpackers.

Ho Chi Minh City: 2-3 days

Ho Chi Minh City is a huge hive of activity. It’s a collision of old and modern, where rich history has merged with swanky rooftop bars and towering skyscrapers. Motorbikes rule here and you’ll be shocked at the sheer number of bikes  everywhere.

There are many day trips that are worth taking from Ho Chi Minh City. You can opt to visit the Chu Chi tunnels, where the Vietnamese managed to hide from American soldiers, or take a boat trip to The Mekong Delta to explore the vast maze of rivers spawning across Southern Vietnam.

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

• Visit the War Remnants Museum  
• Have drinks at a sky bar
• Stroll through Tao Dan Park
• Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Take a day trip to The Mekong Delta
• Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral

Additions and alternations to your Vietnam itinerary

Got longer than a month to spend? Or perhaps some of the destinations above aren’t right for you? Here are some other ideas to include in your Vietnam itinerary.

Ha Giang Loop

The Ha Giang Loop is a 4-day motorbike route around northern Vietnam. It’s renowned for its dramatic scenery, characterised by towering mountains, glorious rivers, and rice terraces. You’ll need to be competent and confident on a motorbike to complete the ride — if that’s you, the Ha Giang Loop is not one to be missed.

As you travel down Vietnam, Mui Ne is the last coastal outpost before reaching Ho Chi Minh City. This ocean town is famous for its impressive sand dunes — yep, there are sand dunes in Vietnam — which are best explored on a jeep tour. You’ll only need a day or two in Mui Ne, but it’s worth the visit if you’re keen on exploring the dunes.

Nha Trang’s beautiful bays, golden beaches and turquoise waters have seen it blossom into a fun tourist destination. It’s a great place to island-hop and go snorkelling , or simply relax on the sandy beaches. If you love beaches and island hopping, Nha Trang might be for you.

As Phu Quoc is an island, it’s rather expensive compared to the rest of Vietnam. However, it’s a great place to relax by the beach for a few days. Many of the beaches are very touristy, but if you hire a motorbike and drive away from the town, you can find your own beautiful beach quite easily. You can take a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc.

Planning your trip to Vietnam

I hope my 30-day Vietnam itinerary has given you some ideas on how you might like to spend your time in the country. Keep reading for my travel tips on what it’s like to travel in Vietnam, including budgets, cuisine, visas, getting around, and more.

Do you need a visa for Vietnam?

Many European nationalities, including the United Kingdom, Sweden, Norway, Germany, France and Denmark, as well as South Korea and Japan, can enter Vietnam visa-free for 15 days. Read the full list of countries that can enter visa-free here.

For visits of up to 30 days, or nationalities who cannot enter visa-free, you’ll need to purchase an e-visa online before your arrival. I recommend you apply for this e-visa at least 3 days in advance.

Some nationalities, such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and the Philippines, can enter visa-free for up to 30 days.

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

You can visit Vietnam year-round as it has pretty sporadic weather. You’re bound to experience both rain and sunshine no matter when you visit. However, March and April are thought to have the lowest rainfall across the country, and temperatures are not too hot.

Costs of travelling in Vietnam

Vietnam is a very cheap country to travel in, especially if you stay in hostels and eat local food. Here are the typical costs of backpacking in Vietnam.

Accommodation : Hostels in Vietnam start at about 100,000 VND (4 USD) per night. Most hostels offer free WiFi and free breakfast, and some even give you a free beer upon arrival! If you want to stay in a budget hotel, rather than a hostel, you should expect to pay about 225,000 VND (10 USD) per night.

Food : Food is incredibly cheap in Vietnam. For example, you can get a large bowl of pho for 20,000 VND (just under 1 USD). I ate pho nearly every day. If you stick to street food, it will be easier and cheaper to eat out, rather than cook for yourself.

Transport: Vietnam’s bus network is extensive, and travelling by bus is cheaper than the train. You can get an Open Tour Bus Pass for about 50 USD, whereby you’ll be able to get on and off at any major city along the way. Standalone bus journeys between cities will usually set you back by about 15 USD. Public city buses are very inexpensive, with buses in Ho Chi Minh City costing about 4,000 VND (17 cents) per ride.

Activities : Vietnam is home to a ton of amazing, free activities. However, it’s likely that you’ll want to do some activities which cost. Halong Bay tours start at around 60 USD, going up to 130 USD for more luxury options. Trekking with guides can set you back 40-170 USD, depending on how many days of trekking you choose to do. Most museums, temples and site entrances will cost between 1-10 USD.

Vietnam daily budget breakdown

I would recommend allowing about 680,000 – 900,000 VND (25-35 USD) a day for backpacking in Vietnam. This is assuming that you’ll be staying in hostels, eating street food, taking local transport, and not drinking tons of alcohol.

If you’re planning on spending a lot of time on the island Phu Quoc, you’ll probably need to add another 231,900 – 463,900 VND (10-20 USD) or so a day to your budget for the duration of your time on the island, as it’s incredibly expensive. I found it difficult to track down good street food and accommodation on the island was quite pricey.

Also, if you’re going to be indulging in lots of expensive activities, such as trekking with guides, you’ll need to add a significant amount more to your budget.

Food & drink in Vietnam

Vietnam is home to some of the best food in Asia. Luckily, eating in Vietnam is incredibly cheap! Here are some local dishes you simply must try:

Pho: Probably Vietnam’s most famous dish, pho is a noodle soup consisting of rice noodles, spring onions, and a broth flavoured with ginger and coriander.

Goi cuon:  These transparent spring rolls are packed with delicious vegetables and coriander.

Banh mi:  Banh mi is a baguette-style sandwich, filled with green vegetables and a fresh omelette.

Nom hua chuoi: A banana-flower salad comprising lime and chilli flavours.

Western food: Knowing that their target market is primarily Western tourists, restaurants selling Western food, such as pizza or pasta, will be very pricey in comparison to local Vietnamese food. That being said, there is plenty of Western food available in the cities and tourist towns if that’s what you’re looking for.

Water: You can’t drink from the tap in Vietnam, so always be sure to drink bottled water. A litre of bottled water should cost about 5,000 VND (25 cents) from shops.

Alcohol: Alcohol in Vietnam is pretty cheap, particularly if you stick to local brews. Local Vietnamese beers include Bia Hoi, Saigon and Hanoi, which you can pick up for as little as 20,000 VND (86 cents).

Getting around in Vietnam

Vietnam is a large country, so travel between cities can be time-consuming. Luckily, the public transport network is very extensive, making travel within Vietnam surprisingly easy.

Open bus: If you’re planning to follow my Vietnam itinerary above, or something similar, I recommend getting an Open Tour Bus Pass. This costs about 50 USD, stopping at all the major destinations between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, where you can simply hop on and off. It will be more cost-effective than buying lots of separate, standalone bus tickets.

Public bus: If you choose not to buy an Open Tour Bus Pass, standalone bus journeys between destinations will usually set you back by about 15 USD. Bus tickets are easy to purchase – I’m pretty sure every hostel I stayed in sold them, and there are always travel agents in towns who sell tickets. Public city buses are very inexpensive, with buses in Ho Chi Minh City costing about 4,000 VND (17 cents) per ride.

By train : Train travel in Vietnam is often slow and unreliable. However, the journey can be quite scenic and I can’t express how much more comfortable overnight trains are compared to overnight buses. Trains are usually a little more expensive than buses, but I think it’s worth it for the extra comfort. For example; Hanoi to Hue by train is 462,000 VND (20 USD) and Hue to Ho Chi Minh City by train is 666,000 VND (29 USD).

By taxi : For travel within cities, I recommend using Grab. It’s an app similar to Uber, so the price is locked and you can’t be ripped off. It always works out cheaper than a taxi and is hands down the best way to travel within a city. If Grab isn’t available, as it likely won’t be outside of cities, then always try to get a metered taxi. Drivers are usually friendly, but can sniff out a tourist from a mile off, and may attempt to over-charge you.

By plane : Particularly if your time in Vietnam is limited, there may be occasions when you’ll want to take a flight to save time. A train journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City would take over 30 hours, for example, whereas a flight would only take 2 hours. AirAsia  is low-cost and good for internal flights.

About The Author

Lauren Pears is a freelance travel writer and blogger based in London. She writes about active adventure travel, aiming to encourage and inspire travellers to make the most of the great outdoors.

Thank you for reading! If you found this post useful, I’d be grateful if you would consider using the affiliate links below when planning your travels. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This will help me to keep this blog running. Thanks for your support – Lauren. Hotels –  Booking.com Hostels –  Hostelworld Cheap flights –  Skyscanner Travel insurance –  World Nomads Outdoor gear –  Decathlon  /  GO Outdoors Cycling gear –  Chain Reaction Cycles Alternatively, you could buy me a coffee to say thanks!

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17 comments.

Thank you for helping me plan my month in Vietnam 😊

Glad it was helpful Rachel! Have a fantastic time 😊

Thanks for your great itinerary. I have wanted to go to Vietnam for some time but other things got in the way i.e. Covid! lol But I have now found two friends who want to go and am planning a trip in 2024. We are seniors but I am a world traveler so still intrepid despite being 74. We won’t be as active as you planned (or as I used to be). That said, are there issues we need to be aware of given our ages? We’re all relatively healthy and mobile.

I usually love capital cities, so I assume I’ll love Hanoi! I’m glad you did too 🙂 Vietnam is definitely on my list for next year. Your photos capture is beautifully.

I just loved Vietnam, I would went for two weeks a couple of years ago though I would of loved to go for a whole month. I am definitely envious of you and your trip. I would of loved to do have done Go hiking in Cat Ba National Park that sounds great and have drinks at a sky bar

I guess you’ll just have to go back one day so you can visit Cat Ba 🙂

I kind of laughed that you made a month-long itinerary for time-budgeted travelers; like most people, I get 2 weeks of vacation per year, so I don’t anywhere for an entire month!!! Lol. But, Vietnam looks like such a beautiful country! I’ve never heard of Tam Coc, and I love that it seems less touristy than Halong Bay and other places. I’ll make sure to check it out during my shorter-than-1-month trip one day 😉

Ah sorry about that! In the UK, we generally get about 28 days of holiday 🙂 But you’ll still get to see some awesome parts of Vietnam in two weeks!

Arrrrgh – now I want to go to Vietnam. Halong Bay, Sa Pa (wauw) and Da Lat look very much like my kind of thing. I have heard so many nice things about Vietnam, but I have yet to go myself. How cool you got to spend a whole month there.

I have always wanted to go to Vietnam! My boyfriend went diving there so I have always wanted to explore. It looks so beautiful and looks like you had the best time!

Everything about this post makes me kick myself for not going to Vietnam when I lived in Cambodia a couple of years ago. Back then you had to buy the pricey 30 visa and since I rarely had more than 10 days off it didn’t seem worth it at the time to visit for such a short time. Hindsight is 20/20 though, and I think it would have been worth it to go if only to see a couple of these gorgeous spots! Halong Bay has been a dream of mine for ages, and I’ve heard incredible things about Hoi An and Da Lat – especially reading about the thriving cafe scene and adventure activities there! I think this is the first time I’ve heard of Tam Coc, but looks like that one’s going on the list too! Definitely bookmarking this for when I finally make it back to SE Asia, which I’m hoping will be in summer 2019!

That’s so cool that you lived in Cambodia! What did you do there? I hope you do get to visit Southeast Asia again next year, I’m sure you’ll love Vietnam 🙂

What a lovely itinerary, I like that it’s not too rushed and has a great mix of different kinds of places. I hadn’t heard of Tam Coc, it looks utterly beautiful, reminds me of Cheow Lan Lake in Thailand, which we adored last year. Hoi An is one of the places we’ve been told to give lots of time, everyone seems to love it as you say! And I’m saving your post for the notes on Da Lat, which looks magical.

Thirty days in Vietnam would be so wonderful! I’m sure it goes by really fast too. I really appreciate all the details in this post, and the recommendations of where to stay, what to do and where to eat. I’d love to see the puppet theater!

I was just saying, not two days ago, that we should go to Vietnam. Now reading this, you’ve made us want to do it even more! It is such a picturesque and culture filled country. Thanks for capturing it so beautifully and posting it for your readers.

Thanks for sharing. Keep travel blogging. Adventure is better shared with friends!

Your posts on Asia always give me wanderlust (I remember your post on Da Lat, and I was surprised how modern and breezy the city was). If I end up traveling to Vietnam at some point, this article will be really helpful- to get some general knowledge on the country and then start exploring in detail according to my preferences. Hoi An and Da Lat would definitely end up in my itinerary. 🙂

Glad to hear it Anja – that’s what I aim to do! Yes, Hoi An and Da Lat are definitely not to be missed in my opinion and I hope you get to visit Vietnam sometime soon 🙂

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One Month in Vietnam: A Complete Itinerary

Home » Blog » Travel Itinerary » One Month in Vietnam: A Complete Itinerary

Vietnam is a country of diversity: Chaotic cities and sleepy rural villages. Mountains and beaches, palm trees and pines. 

If you have a month in Vietnam, you can experience both the north and the south of the country, eat amazing food and get off the beaten path.

While traveling in Vietnam, we trekked through rice terraces, hugged a 1,000-year-old tree, explored famous caves, ate everything we set our sights on, and went zip-lining and canyoneering.

We drove a motorbike through jungles and misty mountain passes, were invited into a home in a rural village, learned how to cook some tasty Vietnamese dishes, and rang in the new year on our own private beach.

The food, the motorbikes, the landscapes and the people made this one of our favorite destinations in Southeast Asia.  

Vietnam is a country that surprised us in every way, and we can’t wait for you to experience its flavors, sounds, and warmth for yourself.

Before you travel to Vietnam

1. Get a Vietnam visa

This process is a bit more complicated than other countries in Southeast Asia. Lucky for you, we’ve laid out all the steps you need to take before planning your travels to Vietnam .

2. Get travel insurance

This isn’t just a smart thing to do – it’s absolutely necessary. From motorbike crashes to stories of theft, we saw quite a few accidents in Vietnam.

We even met one young traveler whose friend needed to be airlifted to Bangkok after hurting himself and the local hospitals couldn’t treat his injury. Travel insurance is cheap, and although you hope you never need to use it, you’ll be more at ease knowing you’re covered in case of an emergency. Check out our guide that explains how to choose the best policy for you.

Did you know Vietnam is a great place to teach English? Find out how to get certified to teach English abroad .

Next Read: Eco-friendly travel gear that you can take with you anywhere

How this Vietnam itinerary works:

We’ve put together an itinerary that is perfect for a first-time trip to this Southeast Asian gem. By following this Vietnam itinerary, you’ll see both the north and south of the country and you’ll experience big cities as well as towns that are off the beaten path.

That’s right – we’ve pretty much planned your trip to Vietnam for you! We’ve included a brief introduction to each city to describe the attractions and what makes it unique.

We also included things to do, where to stay and insider tips you won’t want to miss. Plus, we’ve answered the all-important question in Vietnam of “What should I eat in each city in Vietnam?”. After reading this itinerary, you’ll be all set to visit Vietnam!

A note about this itinerary: Though we traveled from north to south, this route can easily be done in reverse. Also, the timings we suggest add up to 28 days.

We prefer to have a little wiggle room in our itineraries so we can stay longer in places we really like, and we’d be alright if there are any issues with transportation. You can adjust the times as you see fit.

If you’re strict on your travel time in Vietnam, it might be a good idea to book your Vietnam transportation online ahead of time. 12go.asia is a booking site we have used and find some good deals on buses, ferries, trains and even flights. 

Everything you need to pack for Vietnam

1 Month Vietnam Itinerary at a Glance

Hanoi : 2-3 days

Sapa: 3 days

Halong Bay: 3 days

Trang An & Cuc Phuong National Park: 2 days

Phong Nha: 3 days

Huế: 1 day (or half-day).

Hoi An : 4-6 days

Da Lat : 3-4 days

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): 2-3 days

How to spend 1 month in Vietnam 

We’ve put together a complete one month itinerary with all the best destinations in Vietnam so all the planning is done for you!

Hanoi: 2-3 days

When you start your journey in the capital city of Hanoi, you may be in for a bit of culture shock. You’ll witness motorbikes flowing chaotically yet synchronously through the crammed streets. The city moves to it’s own beat and everyone seems happy to be there. It’s a wonderful place to start.

Things to do in Hanoi:

We’ve put together a list of free and cheap things to do in Hanoi so all your planning is taken care of!

What to eat in Hanoi: 

Bun Cha. Do it. NOW. Originating from Hanoi, this dish consists of grilled pork patties and noodles served with lettuce, herbs and a dipping sauce. We several delicious meals of Bun Cha in Hanoi and it was too hard to choose a winner so I’m sharing our 2 favorites! 

One was in a small shop on the northeast corner of St. Joseph’s Cathedral and the other was at a restaurant called Bun Cha Ta at 21 Nguyễn Hữu Huân. Try them both to compare and let us know which one you liked better. Bun cha is just one of many dishes to try in Hanoi!

Psst! Planning a trip to Vietnam? You’ll want to check out this rundown of the best Vietnamese street food to try before you get there!

Where to stay in Hanoi:

Vietnam Backpackers Hostels – Original . Offering both dorm rooms and spacious private rooms and centrally located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Vietnam Backpackers Hostel Original was one of the best hostels we stayed in Vietnam.  

There’s free breakfast every morning, free walking tours of the city, other tours throughout the country and happy hour specials every day. What more could you ask for! 

Note:  We’d suggest the private rooms if you are traveling as a couple. They’re not much more expensive than the dorms, and they’re very nice!

How to get to the city from the airport: 

The Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for Hanoi is about 30 km away from the main city center and there are many ways to get there. The best option is to take the airport shuttle bus which leaves just outside of the gates. The cost is 40,000 VND ($2 USD) and takes about 40-60 minutes depending on the traffic.

If you are one of the first on, you’ll have to wait a bit because they typically leave once they have a full bus. If you arrive during the day you can take the city bus number 7 that terminates at Kim Ma Bus station and number 17 that terminate at Long Bien bus station.

The cost is 4,000 VND and take about one hour. The last option is to take a taxi, but they are known to overcharge traveler and typically charge $35 USD one way. 

Sapa: 3 days (depending on weather)

We spent quite a bit of time in Sapa and trust us when we say, it’s only worth the 6-hour journey from Hanoi if the weather is clear. Once the clouds roll in over the hills, say goodbye to the breath-taking views you hoped for. Sometimes it gets so foggy you can’t see your hand in front of your face. 

Now that we’ve been blunt, here’s the good news:  when the weather is clear, Sapa is incredible . The rice terraces are stunning and the waterfalls are just a motorbike ride away. Book your bus from Hanoi to Sapa online so you don’t have to worry about finding any when you arrive. 

What to do in Sapa:

The most popular thing to do in Sapa is to take a trek led by a local. You will also do a homestay and get to spend a night in their house and eat meals with them.

We opted to do a trek on our own because we had just done a homestay trek in Laos the week before. We heard mixed reviews from people who did the homestay treks in Sapa, so do your research and talk to other travelers along the way for advice. 

Do your own day trek by walking south on Mường Hoa Road and cutting down one of the paths into the valley. From there, explore the rice terraces by following the winding trails.

Note: Know that while you are walking along the main road you will likely have women follow you and try to convince you to buy something from them or hire them as a guide. If you don’t want their services, politely decline and keep walking. 

Another great way to spend the day is to rent a scooter and explore. We did two different day trips – one to some waterfalls and the other through surrounding villages.

Waterfalls:  Head to Silver Waterfall (which is always busy and just on the side of the road) and Love Waterfall. You have to pay a small entrance fee of 35,000 VND ($1.57 USD) and walk about 30 minutes in a forest path, but it is well worth it for the view. 

Villages:  With your motorbike, travel northeast on road QL4D for about four or five kilometers from the center of Sapa and you will start to see turn offs for smaller villages on your left. You may even see signs for different homestays in these villages. Drive carefully because these roads are not well maintained but the views are stunning. 

Where to stay in Sapa:

Mountain View Hostel . Cozy up near the wood burning stove or play a game of pool with other guests at the Mountain View Hostel in Sapa. The dorms were nice and the free breakfast was a great way to start our day. 

Where to eat in Sapa:

We found the food in Sapa to be disappointing overall. The menus of most restaurants we photocopies of each other and were overpriced for what you get.  There was one place that was more authentic and you get a huge portions.

The “restaurant” is basically in someone’s kitchen we had to get directions from the Mountain View Hostel staff. The best directions I can give are to leave out of Mountain View Hostel and go right down the steps. Walk down for about 20 steps and the door to the “restaurant” will be on your right. There isn’t a menu, and they just cook what they have on hand, so it is truly an authentic experience.

A note about ethical travel in Sapa: 

Try your best to make ethical and sustainable choices while here. Sapa has had a boom of tourism in the last years and the locals will try to do anything to benefit from the masses entering this tiny town. If you do choose to trek with a company, try to go with one that directly benefits the locals instead of the bigger companies.

One reputable trekking organization is called Sapa Sisters . It is the only female-owned trekking company in town and they pay their guides fairly.

Also, if you’re looking to buy handicrafts in Sapa, there’s a wonderful Hmong-owned shop called Hemp & Embroidery that sells handmade goods – from hand-stamped indigo fabrics to traditional Hmong jewelry.

Alternative to Sapa:

While we loved Sapa, the pushy touts and touristy vibe of the town was a bit off-putting at times. We were planning to take a motorbike to Hà Giang , a lesser-known province in the north of Vietnam. Since the weather was so bad, we cut it from our Vietnam itinerary and are saving it for our next visit!

One thing to note is that the best way to get there is by motorbike, as public transportation in the area is unreliable and even the locals weren’t able to tell us when or how often it came. We’ve heard that this area is incredibly beautiful and far less touristy than Sapa. 

Ha Long Bay: 2-3 days

One of the most iconic destinations within Vietnam is the lush island cliffs rising from the still waters of Ha Long Bay. Choosing from the numerous boat cruises is a tough task, especially when there are a lot of scams scattered on the Internet.

Make sure to look at reviews and ratings before paying for your trip. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the landscape is incredible and you can’t miss this. There’s a boat tour style for every traveler – from calm sight-seeing tours to foodie cruises to drink-til-you-drop booze cruises. 

We were in Ha Long Bay for over New Year’s Eve so we wanted to have a little fun. We did a 3-day/2-night trip with Halong Party Cruises (affiliated with Oasis Bay) and it was a blast.

The first day was filled with weaving around the towering limestone islands and exploring caves. The next day we traveled to Freedom Island to have a NYE party on the beach. It was a night to remember with amazing people.

If you are traveling Vietnam with kids, check out the best family-friendly Ha Long Bay cruises  to choose the right one for you. 

Read More: Find more information about what to expect in Ha Long Bay .

Ninh Binh, Trang An, Cuc Phuong National Park: 2 days

Whether you’re looking for a unique and non-touristy weekend getaway from Hanoi or you’re continuing south through Vietnam,  Ninh Binh province should you be your next stop (if you have the time!). Take the bus from Hanoi to the city of Ninh Binh, rent a scooter and just outside of town is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An National Park .

Take a boat tour through narrow cave waterways and grottoes. You’ll be in awe not only by the natural beauty surrounding you, but also because the women rowing the boat can paddle with their feet!

The next day, fuel up your scooter and drive to Cuc Phuong National Park. About 40 km from Ninh Binh, Cuc Phuong is the largest and oldest national park in Vietnam.

The park not only has hundreds species of animals within a unique ecosystem, but it has some incredible sites like the cave of the prehistoric man and a 1,000-year-old tree.

There are places to stay within the park for all levels of comfort. We stayed in the cheapest room at the park center which was a simple bedroom with a shared bathroom for 200,000 VND/room ($9 USD). It was good enough for one night, if we were staying longer, we probably would have upgraded.

You can see the other types of accommodation on Cuc Phuong National Park website . After your night in the jungle, head back to Ninh Binh to catch a bus to Phong Nha.

Where to stay in Ninh Binh:

Kinh Do Hotel Ninh Binh . Average hotel with free breakfast and a friendly staff. They rent out good quality scooters so you’re able to get on and head straight to Trang An and Cuc Phuong. There isn’t much to choose from when it comes to accommodation in Ninh Binh, so this place is a good bet. 

There’s nothing better than visiting one of the best kept secrets of a country before it gets too popular. We are convinced that the small town of Phong Nha is exactly that place.

The countryside surrounding the town is filled with friendly locals and is pocketed with caves. In fact, it is in this region that the world’s largest cave, Son Doong Cave, is located. While the drone videos of this gigantic cave look insanely cool , don’t get too set on putting it on your itinerary. 

The cave has a sensitive ecosystem and you’ll have to dish out a cool $3,000 USD for a 7-day trek. But don’t worry, there are plenty other caves to visit in the area if your budget doesn’t allow a massive splurge.

What to do in Phong Nha:

Rent a motorbike to explore the area. This region is very flat and there aren’t many people on the road, so it’s a great place to ride even for an unexperienced driver. If you stay at Easy Tiger Hostel (the town’s biggest and best hostel; more info below) you can rent a motorbike from the guys next door.

Dark Cave is so much fun! As long as you think of it as a sort of natural amusement park, you’ll have a great time.

Here’s what to expect: a zip-line, trekking through a cave until you reach a natural mud pit and swimming through a cave lake in complete darkness. After you’re finished in the cave, play on the ropes course until you’ve had your fill of waterpark-esque fun!

Paradise Cave is completely different, and we’d highly recommend visiting both this AND Dark Cave as they are totally separate experiences. Paradise Cave used to be the world’s largest cave until Son Doong was discovered.

It easily accommodates tourists, with wooden walking platforms and lights inside the cave, but the cave itself is nothing short of magical. And when we arrived in the late afternoon, we pretty much had the gigantic cave to ourselves.

There’s also the historic Phong Nha Cave which is located just a 20-minute walk from Easy Tiger. During the war, this cave hid Vietnam’s anti-aircraft equipment that the Americans spent years trying to find.

Where to stay in Phong Nha:

Easy Tiger Hostel . This huge hostel is centrally located in the small town of Phong Na. They have an informational meeting every day to tell you about the town and how to get around. 

The staff is wonderful and restaurant is delicious (order the Indonesian chicken plate!). They have open mic nights frequently, so you can show off your skills (or just watch others kill it on stage). Make sure to book your bed(s) via email. 

What to eat in Phong Nha: 

Grilled Chicken. Okay, I know that it’s not what you think of as traditional Vietnamese food, but I can assure you this is the epitome of real local cooking. Rent bicycles from Easy Tiger and head to what is known as the  “Pub with Cold Beer”  (ask Easy Tiger for the map).

You’ll ride past handfuls of small children smiling and waving at you. These people in the surrounding villages were the friendliest we met in all of Vietnam. 

At this hammock-filled restaurant, you can order a half chicken or whole chicken and the lady will ask you if you want to kill it yourself.  Yeah, you read that right.  They raise it, you kill it. We kindly rejected her offer, but at least we knew the chicken was going to be fresh! Enjoy your chicken and a cold beer (of course) overlooking the river below.

For a great Vietnamese coffee , stop by the Mountain River Cafe and order the special coffee (chocolate Vietnamese coffee). You won’t be disappointed. Fun Fact: The owner of this place first discovered the Son Doong Cave. If you’re lucky you might get to meet him!

We only had a few hours in Hue during a bus transfer, so we tried to pack in as much as we could. Hue is the cultural capital of Vietnam and was the seat of the Nyugen Dynasty emperors. The Hue Royal Palace is in the center of the city and easily visited for 150,000 VND ($6.72 USD).

We didn’t have enough time to explore inside, so we took pictures outside the main gate, which was pretty impressive. If we had more time in Hue, we would have gone to the Thiên Mụ Pagoda and the surrounding parks (we heard there is an abandoned theme park that is pretty cool and creepy). 

Hue is not only the cultural capital of Vietnam, but it’s also famous for is food. Instead spending our time at historic tombs and towers, we ate our way around Hue for a few hours. 

What to eat in Hue: 

Yes, we are fatties and we traveled to Hue basically to eat, but when there’s so much good food to try, you’ve gotta have it all. In the short amount of time we had, these were the 3 dishes we decided to try:

Banh Bot Loc: An appetizer of small, clear, shrimp-stuffed tapioca dumplings

Banh Khoai: Vietnam’s version of a savory pancake

Bun Bo Hue: Spicy vermicelli noodle beef soup. Don’t forget to slurp!

Logistical note:  If we had to choose a city to cut from this itinerary, it would be Hue. But if you do end up staying here for the night, we use Agoda to find the best hotel/guesthouse deals around Southeast Asia. 

Hoi An: 4-6 days

Calling Hoi An touristy is an understatement, but there’s a reason people from all over the world flock to this UNESCO protected city. We spent almost one week here, but easily could’ve been there for two.

What to do in Hoi An:

We’ve got you covered with a list of several things to do in Hoi An !

Where to stay in Hoi An:

Hoi An is known for wonderful homestay accommodation, which is more like a bed and breakfast than the traditional homestay you may be imagining . A fantastic option for those traveling on a budget is Countryside Moon Homestay . Feel right at home as this wonderful family welcomes you into their home.

You’ll rest easy in the large, clean ensuite rooms and have free breakfast waiting for you in the morning. It’s a bit out of the city center but the bicycles are free to rent and they can arrange a motorbike rental for you at a reasonable price. 

What to eat in Hoi An: 

One of the cheapest and tastiest street foods in Vietnam is a Bánh mì baguette sandwich. For the best in town, head to Banh My Phuong for this tasty dish . Anthony Bourdain recommended this place on his show No Reservations and it was ahhh-mazing.

Also don’t forget to try the famous cao lầu (noodle soup) in the local market. The noodles in cao lầu are made using a secret recipe by a local family and Hoi An is the only place you can taste the real stuff. Another ubiquitous dish in this city is the Hoi An White Rose, which is a delicate dumpling filled with meat or shrimp. 

Da Lat: 3-4 days

Back in the old days, the rich people from Saigon would travel to Da Lat to get away from the heat and bustling city to enjoy the wilderness. Today, Da Lat is a pretty big city itself, but there are some unique places to see in the outskirts of town.

If you venture far enough, the thick pine forests and waterfalls will make you wonder if you’re even in Vietnam anymore.

What to do in Da Lat:

From cute cafés and quirky architecture in town to adventure sports and an incredibly special cultural experience outside the city, there is plenty to do in Da Lat. Check out our list of things to do in this unique Vietnamese town .

Where to stay in Da Lat:

Mr. Peace Backpackers House . As you walk into the hostel, you will be greeted with a hug by Mr. Peace (maybe a kiss on the cheek if you’re lucky!). He welcomes all his guest this way and always makes sure you’re having a good time at this place.

They can arrange all sorts of tours for you and most nights have host a family style dinner before going out as a group to the 100 Roofs Bar.  

Ho Chi Minh City/HCMC (Saigon): 2-3 days

We could’ve spent all day watching the masses of people on motorbikes flow around the streets of Ho Chi Minh City… or Saigon as it is still referred to by locals.

What to do in Saigon/Ho Chi Minh City

There are many things to do in Ho Chi Minh City . Here are some of our favorites:

Walk to the American War Museum , and be prepared for an emotional experience. The big military machinery outside the museum is what you’ll notice first, but it’s what is inside that will really hit you. Walking through the exhibits is not easy, but is moving and so necessary to get a different understanding of this time in history.

Bùi Viện Street comes alive at night when bar owners begin spreading out plastic stools for patrons to drink beer out in the street. Once the sun sets, this is the place to be any night of the week. 

There are plenty of other things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, but we just didn’t have time. We considered going to the Củ Chi tunnels , but the American War Museum was emotional enough and our time was running short, so we decided against it.

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City: 

We didn’t like the place we stayed in Saigon so we can’t recommend it. If we were to choose a new place, we would go with Lily Hostel . It’s cheap, has cute private rooms and has a great location. And if you’re looking for a more social environment, Vietnam Inn is a well-known hostel that hosts legendary pub crawls.

What to eat in Ho Chi Minh City: 

If you only eat one meal in Saigon, it should be at Lunch Lady Noodles – hands down. Run by Nguyen Thi Thanh, this local legend hit the global scale when Anthony Bourdain visited the stand for his show “No Reservations”.

The menu changes each day of the week and I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. On the day we visited, we got a bowl of slippery noodle seafood soup and it was one of the best meals we had in all of Vietnam. The best part is it only cost 40,000 VND ($1.79 USD) per bowl.  For more information on this famous street stall and to see the daily menu, check out this website.

Click here for the location of the Lunch Lady. For more accurate directions, here is the street she is on: Hẻm D Chung Cư Nguyễn Đình C, Đa Kao, District 1, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. You can also type “The Lunch Lady (noodles)” in Google Maps and it will pinpoint it right on your map.

Warning: There’s only one thing to order at the Lunch Lady’s food stall: the noodle soup of the day. However, there are other vendors (probably her relatives or friends) that will put food on your table (fresh spring rolls, deep fried veggies, etc.) that you didn’t ask for and therefore are not included in the price.

The spring rolls are delicious, but just a warning that you’ll have to pay an extra 18,000 VND ($0.83 USD) for them. Politely say “no” if you do not want to eat these, and they will take them away.

If we had more time to travel in Vietnam:

We are pretty certain we will be back in Vietnam someday. When we get back there, a motorbike trip around Hà Giang province is at the top of our wish list. We were planning on spending some time there, but nasty weather kept us away this time.

We heard mixed reviews about the beaches and sand dunes of Mui Né, but if we have more time we would have made it down there to check it out for ourselves. The Suối Tiên Fairy Stream near Mui Ne certainly looks beautiful! Maybe next time. 

Phu Quoc Island

Compared to the sand and surf of the rest of SE Asia, Vietnam really isn’t the best beach destination. We were traveling to Cambodia next and going to the beaches of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem so we didn’t feel the need to get our tan on in Vietnam. 

But sometimes you just crave a little Vitamin D (and Vitamin SEA), am I right?! Of all the coastline in this long country, we heard the best reviews about Phu Quoc Island.

Again, if you’re traveling to Thailand, Cambodia, or really any other nearby country, chances are you’ll find better beaches, but it seems like Phu Quoc can hold its own among the best of them. We may just have to get there someday to give it a try ourselves. 

Places we avoided in Vietnam:

Mekong delta.

We were planning on going here as one of our last stops in Vietnam, but after hearing very negative things from different people throughout out Vietnam (and because we were pressed for time) we decided against it. People we talked to said they felt like it was a total tourist trap and they felt really pressured into buying things.

Updates Note: We recently heard about a bike tour in the Mekong Delta area that is supposed to be worthwhile. So our recommendation for anyone who really wants to see this area is to do you research and go with a reputable ( and sustainable! ) company.

We avoided Nah Trang because everyone we met said it was a dirty city and has become a Russian spring break playground instead of a true Vietnamese city. We did spend 3 hours there (from 4 a.m. to 7 a.m.) while waiting for a bus transfer. We ended up sleeping on the beach for a bit and watched the sunrise, which was nicer than we expected.

The beach was nice at dawn, so if you’re looking for a party on the beach it might be okay, but we heard better things about Mui Né and Phu Quoc Island.

Additionally, we met a couple who did their Scuba diving certification in Nha Trang and ended up collecting trash while underwater because it was so polluted. So it may not be the best place to dive either.

Where should I go if I have 2 weeks in Vietnam?

Two weeks is still a good amount of time in Vietnam, but you’ll have to move fast and skip a few places. It is a HUGE country, after all, and travel between cities can take quite a while. 

A good (but pretty rushed!) 2-week Vietnam itinerary that covers both the north and south of Vietnam could look something like this: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City (remember, traveling between these cities can take much longer than you may think). 

Our recommendation with 2 weeks would be to split the country and choose only one region – either North Vietnam or South Vietnam. This way, you’d have more time for the more authentic and less-traveled towns like Phong Nha and Dalat. But it really comes down to personal travel style and which regions you are most interested in covering.

Are you planning a trip to Vietnam?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Vietnam and destinations throughout the country. Check out our Ultimate Vietnam Travel Guide for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

Vietnamese Street Food Guide: Delicious Dishes You Must Try

Free & Cheap Things To Do in Hanoi

Adventurous Things To Do in Da Lat, Vietnam

Fun Things To Do in Hoi An

• Best Things to Do in Ninh Binh, Vietnam

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We want to hear from you!

Have you ever been to Vietnam? Where did you travel? What was your favorite place? Would you add anything to our itinerary? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Comments (91) on “ One Month in Vietnam: A Complete Itinerary ”

Old but Nice post, Thanks for sharing!

This is so helpful for my coming trip this December. I plan to book through a travel agency to make sure it’s a great experience (www.realisticasia.com is on my mind after careful consideration), thank you very much for your post!

it’s really useful ! thank you so much. i will be in vietnam and this article will help me.

I just wanted to drop a comment of gratitude for your work, your blog has been very helpful to me in planning my upcoming trip to Vietnam (leaving in three days for my 30 days trip – eek so excited!). I think you blog was one of the first things I read when trying to get a hold of what’s what (and where!) and then I went and planned the trip from there. Now I’ve come back to compare my itinerary with what you recommended and it’s fairly similar (with small exceptions). I’ve also watched some of your stuff on youtube and that’s also been very helpful. Keep up the great work :). Just thought I’d let you know that it’s much appreciated.

Best wishes, Jennifer

I’ve been wanting to make it to Southeast Asia, specifically Vietnam, for years but the well-defined tourist trail has significantly deterred me. Thank you for this amazing guide!!

Great blog thanks for sharing

You are very welcome Joza!

I love reading your blog it makes me want to come back to Hanoi even though I’ve been there but only for 5 days. Truly the Bun Cha is a must to eat food there, it was really delicious. Thanks for sharing this kind of blog, hope that you will continue sharing your experience and tips. Thank you!

Hey Katie & Ben. Love reading your travel blogs, they’ve really helped us plan our travels. Me and my partner are travelling to Philippines, Vietnam and Cambodia starting November 2019 and we’re struggling with ways to manage and access money whilst we’re out there! Any tips on travel cards or how you managed money whilst you travelled? Thank you!!

If you had to choose between Phong Nha and Trang An & Cuc Phuong National, which would you visit?

National Park**

Great article, very useful for people preparing their visit! Cheers

Hi Ben and Katie, We are planning a trip to Vietnam from 27th Sept to 20th Oct this year. Chinese golden week is the first week of October and I understand that Vietnam is a popular destination for Chinese tourists. Do you know how this is likely to affect our trip, or give us any advice how to avoid the hordes. We are planning to spend time in the north and south, not in the centre. Should we consider a different destination because of the crowds? Thanks, Caroline

If you are really concerned about crowed that week, you could go a little off the tourist trail and visit Phung Nha (though it may have grown in popularity since we visited in 2016). It’s a smaller town in the north with lots of caves and countryside to explore. Hope this helps!

A month in Vietnam is too much, usually only 20 days you can explore all of Vietnam. Congratulations on your wonderful trip to Vietnam.

To each their own, but we thoroughly enjoyed our month in Vietnam and had a great trip!

Thank you very much ! You’ve made a great job investigation the tourist sheep places, so i can avoid them. Thank you so much, again.

You are welcome Noc John.

Hey guys, were you ever disrespected by the people there so much that it made you not want to be there? Several other bloggers have mentioned this about Vietnam so I was wondering your take on it. It seems like you really enjoyed it. We’re totally fine with the usual heckling (we’ve spent a week in Thailand, and some time in Nepal), but just don’t want it terribly unpleasant.

Hi Justin, we read about this as well when we were planning our trip to Vietnam, so we tried to prepare ourselves for it. But to be honest, we didn’t experience any disrespect while traveling in Vietnam. We got plenty of stares but that happens everywhere. I wouldn’t be too concerned about it.

We went to Mekong Delta and loved it. Somewhat touristy but also very different than anything here @ home & we have awesome pictures!! We did the exact same 2-week itinerary you suggested but we added Mekong Delta in the HCMC part, toward the end of our trip. We did a tour based out of HCMC that drove us to the Mekong Delta, went to Mekong for the day then they dropped us back in HCMC.

So glad to hear you loved it! We can’t wait to get back to Vietnam someday so we can do some of the stuff we missed – like this tour!

Những chia sẻ của bạn thật tuyệt vời, có rất nhiều địa danh bạn nên khám phá như : Hà Nội, Hạ Long, Sapa, Đà Nẵng, Huế, Hội An

Hi there, just a quick question regarding motorbikes/mopeds. I’m pretty nervous of riding one and would like to avoid doing so tbh, would you say this would hinder my enjoyment of the trip and would make it a lot harder to get to certain places that you have recommended? For example, nimh Bin and the national park look amazing, but would it be possible to experience it without having to ride a moped?

Hey Tom, I can totally understand not wanting to ride a motorbike in Vietnam. It is not as scary as it seems once you get the hang of it, but I totally understand. You can go to Ninh Binh by bus from Hanoi and then take a tour to the national park or to any other attraction around there. I bet there are tours that will take you. It might be a bit more expensive than renting a motorbike, but then you can relax in a car/bus and not have to worry.

Thank you so much for your detail and helpful blog about Vietnam. I agree with you that beside Sapa, we can choose Ha Giang or Mu Cang Chai to explore, it’s less tourist and more beautiful than Sapa. We had a motorbike trip to Ha Giang and Mu Cang Chai last year, it was so great.

Hey Nghia, Glad you found our Vietnam itinerary helpful! Totally jealous you got to go up to Ha Giang! Did you find any other good spots in Vietnam that are not on this itinerary?

Thank for your point of view. Wow, I am a Vietnamese but I don’t have many opportunities to travel to all destinations in Vietnam. Your article is so awesome and well-informed. I think you researched about Vietnam travel a lot. If I have more opportunities, I will travel to some destinations you mentioned above. Besides, I would like to recommend you some places I am interested in such as Ly Son Island, Ca Mau. I believe that you will have more experiences when traveling in that places. Anw, I know a prestigious website having full of information about Vietnam travel including culture, food, people, and so forth.

We enjoyed traveling in Vietnam very much! Thanks for the additional advice!

As a Vietnamese, I am so appreciate to your post and how lovely words you give to our country. If you have a chance to come back to Vietnam again, i hope you will spend more time in Hue and explore more and more Vietnam’s landscapes. I would like to recommend you some places: Prison-Island Con Dao, a peaceful islands with its great historical proof of wars. I am so glad to see you show your love to our country through each images, each reviews, and each destinations. Thank you so much. Are anybody interested in exploring Vietnam’s landscapes and cuisine and looking forward to travelling vietnam in the near future, please feel free to contact with us: http://itsvietnam.com/ . Have a nice week.

Hi T Nhung, Thank you for your comment. We loved our time in your country and can’t wait to visit Vietnam again!

Hey Ben & Katie, I’ve been studying your posts on Vietnam in preparation for our upcoming trip, and they have been really helpful. I have a quick question regarding Hue. We are also hoping to spend half a day there. Where did you keep your bags? Is there a locker you can rent? We’ll be traveling via train from Da Nang to Hanoi and hoping to stretch our legs and do a little sightseeing in Hue.

Hi Marissa, when we had our day in Hue, we actually left our big bags on the bus since we were traveling from Phong Nha to Hoi An, with just a few hours in Hue. I’m not sure if there were lockers at the station or not. You could always find a travel agency or a hostel and see if they could hold on to your bags while you explore the city.

Really thoughtful written piece on Vietnam that would attracts a lot of tourists through your blog, thank you so much for having introduced Vietnam to your audience! This article always help me improve my service as well.

Glad you liked our Vietnam Itinerary. You have a very beautiful country.

Thank you written about ours country. I hope you can introduce with everybody. We will fix ours mistake and help you more satisfied. Our country is very pleased to welcome you back. Thank you again

Hey Tom. We were very satisfied traveling in Vietnam (hope we didn’t give off the wrong impression). We tell everyone we know that Vietnam was one of our favorite countries to travel, and we can’t wait to go back some day!

Hey Ben, thanks and sorry for the delay response, thanks again for your feedback. Happy new year 2018

Quick question, how safe did u feel riding a motorbike in sapa visiting villages? I heard the path is muddy and narrow, I wonder if I decide not to hire a local guide and go hiking on my own, maybe I should rent a scooper but I wonder how safe it would be?

Any advice regarding this matter

thanks again Ben

Hey Sebastian, that’s a great question. We certainly aren’t expert motorbike riders, but it wasn’t our first time. You’re right – the loop through the villages is a bit rough in places. If you have ridden before and are pretty confident, I think you’d be alright, but I wouldn’t recommend this route if you’re new to motorbikes and are feeling uneasy.

An alternative option is to do an organized motorbike tour. The hostel we were staying at offered a tour, and I’m sure there are others. Best of luck, Sapa is a beautiful place!

Congratulations on your trip. Read the article very interesting. It would be nice to have the chance to meet you in Da Nang. By the way, I am managing a hotel and living in Danang Vietnam. If you want to travel to Da Nang Viet Nam, I will support booking hotel for you.

Thank you for your kind offer, Alan. We don’t have any plans to travel to Vietnam in the near future, but if we do, we will be in touch. Thanks!

Thanks a lot Ben for your reply.

Can you recommend me any company to hire a guide to go hiking in SAPA if you remember any name? Also, Im planning on visiting Vietnam only for 2 weeks, what would u recommend me to do considering it will be just for 2 weeks? I was thinking maybe just doing the north part (hanoi, sapa- halong bay- cat bi island, ninh minh with tac co and hoi an) and skipping the south part even though I would be very interested in visiting the killing fields and the prison.

any other suggestions? I would love to do da la visiting the water falls and parks but its pretty south area and i wont have enough time to do all in 2 weeks Thanks again buddy

Hi Sebastian, The company that we recommended in the article is called Sapa Sisters. There is a link in the Sapa section of this article.

Near the bottom of the article we describe what we recommend if you only have 2 weeks in Vietnam. You could rush through the country and hit the major cities, but that would be a lot of travel time and you wouldn’t get to see the smaller towns. We recommend splitting the country and only traveling in the north or the south, that way you have more time for the smaller cities. Your plan for traveling the north in two weeks sounds pretty good, it might be a bit rushed 7 7 cities/areas in 14 days. It’s hard to decide what to cut, but it all depends on what you are into.

Hiking – go to Sapa, Cities – explore Hanoi, natural beauty – Ha Long bay and Trang An, Culture – Hoi An (well, basically all Vietnam) It’s up to you.

Note: the killing fields and the prison are in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, not Vietnam.

Hi Sebastian, like Ben reply. And bonus, if you plan going to Da Nang Viet Nam, Contact me. I support for you 2 hotel next to My Khe Beach, and just 10$ per night. My phone: +84935666035. Im Alan

hi, awesome blog

thanks a lot for all the info u shared with us

One quick question, what month did u travel to Sapa? I wonder if early March is a good time to visit Sapa to avoid the foggy weather?

did u visit Bac Ha?

should I get a guide to go hiking on my own in sapa?

Thanks a lot Sebastian

Hugs from USA

Hey Sebastian! We were in Sapa in December of 2015 and it was pretty foggy/rainy, although we did have one good day of hiking. After a quick Google Search, March seems to be pretty good weather but still a bit chilly with average high about 60 degrees F. We didn’t visit Bac Ha, sorry. Getting guide in Sapa is up to you. We didn’t because it was really bad weather for most of our time and we just wanted to hike on your own. From what we heard from others, having a guide is nice and you get more information about the area and village life. If I were to go in March I would probably hire a guide, but make sure to find a good company (like the one we recommended in the article, FYI not an affiliate link). Hope this helps!

I am planning a trip to Vietnam in February and want to visit a tiny city near the Laos border called Dak Mil. Has anybody been there? I cant seem to find any information and I really need to know what the transportation would be. Any information would be appreciated!

Hi Sina, I’m sorry I can’t be much help. I have never heard of Dak Mil until you said it. What is there that you want to see? It seems like it is on or near the Ho Chi Minh Highway, so if you rent or buy a motorbike you could find your way there on your own. Sorry I could not be more helpful.

This blog is absolutely amazing! I’m planning our 3 week trip to Vietnam and felt very overwhelmed with all the country has to offer, but after reading your blog I feel much better prepared. Thanks a million

Hey Janet, thanks for such a sweet comment! This just made our day! Let us know if you have any questions, we would be happy to help.

I completely agree! I am planning a trip and this totally helped me get a grasp on what I wanted to see!

Thanks Patrick, glad we could help!

Next week we’ll start our 2 to 3 months stay in Vietnam and after reading the impressive places you’ve stayed at and the tasty food you had, we’re certain we’ll have an adventurous time there. It also comes in handy that you traveled there in November, giving us a good idea of the weather we can expect. Hopefully, the rain will not be much in the way of our plans. We wonder if you could recommend us a place to stay over Christmas/new year’s with some nice atmosphere and on a budget if possible. Also, what is a good budget price for renting a scooter for 1 week e.g.? We’re looking forward to explore this wonderful destination! Greet from A Couple Of Countries

Hey Guys from a Couple of Countries. We were in Sapa during Christmas and it was kind of fun because it was actually cold enough outside to snow. Weather depending, you should go visit Sapa. We also were on a Halong Bay boat trip over New Years which was great because we made some fantastic friends over the three day/two night boat trip. Hoi An could be a cool place for the holidays as well. Most anywhere in Vietnam can be on a budget. The hostels are pretty cheap, food is delicious and inexpensive and you can definitely travel aroudn on a budget. When we rented a motor bike for a couple days, we paid about $6 per day for it. Hopefully that helps your planning. Let us know if you have any more questions! Cheers!

Kickass blog post, just loved it. Thanks for such informative post. Your post was of great help to plan my trip to Vietnam.

Thanks a lot Ram! Glad to hear it was helpful!

Your Vietnam blog is amazing! It’s helping me a lot planning my trip for December. I had one question, were you there in December? I’ll be there for the first two weeks. How will the weather be and is it worth visiting Sapa at that time?

Hi Lala, You’ll love Vietnam! We did. And yes we were there in December 2015. The weather in Sapa was a bit foggy/cloudy when we were there, but it did clear up for two days which was great! I would recommend checking the weather forecast a week before you go. Don’t buy your transportation/hostel beforehand because you can easily book it while you are there. If the weather looks good (or even a chance of sun for a day) you should go to Sapa. If it looks cloudy the whole time, go to Halong Bay or somewhere else, because you unfortunately won’t be able to see anything in Sapa.

We are two retired American teachers spending 16 days this September – Hanoi (4), motorbike tour (4) from PhongNha NP, HCM trail, DMZ, Hue, to HoiAn (4), HCMC & Mekong (4). Love your blog and all the great specific recommendations for what to do and eat. They solidified my previous ideas. Thanks!!

That sounds like an incredible trip, Joan. You’ll have an amazing time – especially motorbiking through the small villages! Cheers!

Such an awesome article! We’ll go to Vietnam in some weeks and this really inspired me. My girlfriend and I will go on a longer trip through SE Asia and we started a Blog as well last year. Thank you for all the tipps.

Have a great day

Glad you enjoyed it, Tom. Safe and happy travels 🙂

Thank you very much 🙂

You are SO welcome 🙂

Great review, lots of facts and relevant information, just wondering, how much do you expend on food, buses and the hostel on this 1 month trip?

Hey Carlos. We always keep track of everything we spend during our travels. For the one month in Vietnam, between the two of us, we spent a total of $2089.78. I hope this helps. Let us know if you have any more questions!

It was so amazing trip. If you have chance to come to Viet Nam again, you should spend more time in Hue City. In here you can explore not only the beauty of historic tombs and towers but also the beauty of some amazing destination…Especially, Hue ‘s scenery at night is very romatic which you should not miss. Peace, nice scenery, friendly people in Hue will be nice memories in your trip.

We would love to spend more time in Hue, but it will have to wait until our next time in Vietnam. Thanks!

This is super helpful! I’ve planned a flight from Saigon to Dong Hoi Airport to go to Phong Nha. What do you think is the best way to get to Phong Nha from the airport? We’ll also only be there for 1 night… do you know if it’d be okay to visit any of the caves during the late afternoon, after 1PM? How long does the cave exploration typically last? And if you were to choose just 1, which do you think is more scenic and worth it? thanks!!

Hi Jasreen, I can’t personally advise you on the airport, as we arrived by bus, but I would assume there are always motorbike drivers and taxis around, so I wouldn’t bee too worried about getting to town.

We visited Paradise Cave in the afternoon (I believe it was sometime around 4pm??) and it was still open – though there weren’t many people.

If you only have time to see one… they are very different, so it depends on what you’re looking for. Dark Cave is less scenic, but it is an adventure – zip-line, kayak, mud bath. It’s pretty fun! Paradise Cave is the iconic cave that you are probably imagining. It just depends on what type of experience you want. For pictures, choose Paradise. For adventure, choose Dark Cave.

Hope this helps!

Excellent read. I’d be curious to know if you had any communication issues as you traveled around. I’m planning on a 3 month excursion through SE Asia which will begin in Vietnam in October, along with Laos and Cambodia. Mine’ll mainly be for photographic purposes. Fineart landscape, street, portraiture, and art nudes.

SE Asia is very easy to travel around because there are so many locals that speak English. We didn’t experience too many communication issues in those countries. Learning a few words of the local language can go a long way as well.

Hey guys, this is great info! Will be using some of the tips for sure 🙂

Glad it’s been helpful!

Amazing experience! I highly recommend visiting Dalat, Hoi An and Halong Bay. STUNNING ! However, you guys should check the weather before booking and also prepare detailed itinerary.

Hello, thank you for great sharing. i will be in vietnam next month. and its rather useful for me. im really excited for vietnam so far 🙂

Yay, so happy this is helpful. Have a wonderful time and eat tons of food for us!

I’m planning a backpacking trip to Vietnam in November. This has been such a wonderfully written and well thought out blog, I’m so excited for the trip! Thank you so much for all the information!

One question i had was in terms of planning these bus rides, are they pretty easy/plentiful? Do I have to plan ahead or should I just head out and figure it out along the way? Thanks again for your wonderful travel blog!

Hey Curtis, We’re so happy you’ve found our site helpful while planning your trip to Vietnam. Great question on transport. We didn’t book anything in advance and never had any problems. I’d recommend doing it all when you get there.

Also, there’s also a “hop-on/hop-off” type pass you can buy but it restricts you a bit because if I remember correctly, you have to arrange each ticket a couple days in advance. Sometimes we didn’t know our exact dates, and we calculated that it really wouldn’t have save us much money (if any) in the longterm. We opted against it, but many people who are traveling through the whole country get it. The buses in Vietnam are a bit different than any country we’ve ever experienced (as the seats are always reclined, like a bed!). Definitely an interesting experience! Have a great time and let us know what you think! (Eat tons of food for us!)

wow, seems that you took a full tour through my little country. Impressive! beautiful and advisable post, guys!

Yes, it was a wonderful experience. We certainly saw a lot, but we still feel like we have lots to see. We can’t wait to get back to Vietnam someday! We already have ideas of all the places we still want to go 🙂

What is your recommended ways of travel? Haven’t heard the best things about the sleeper bus… but they are budget friendly.

Hey Lisa, I hear you – I was a little apprehensive about them too. But the sleeper buses in Vietnam were kind of a fun experience (if you have a good attitude about it!). We’ve taken sleeper buses in many countries, and in Vietnam they are actually kind of nice because you can almost fully recline. The weird thing is that they are ALWASY reclined, so when you ride these buses during the daytime, you’ll be laying down as well.

We heard of a few people taking the train, but it is quite a bit more expensive and infrequent, so we opted for the buses (to spend our money on food! haha!). Honestly, if you space it out (so that you’re not taking sleeper buses every other night) and have a good attitude, bring a headband/buff to cover your face and headphones/ear plugs, it shouldn’t be too bad.

The bus that we actually heard really terrible things about was the border crossing from Vientiane to Hanoi. We flew from Luang Prabang instead (for visa reasons), so we didn’t have that experience, but repeatedly heard bad things. Anyway, I hope this helps a bit! Let us know if you have any other questions. Happy planning 🙂

Thanks for sharing. What and adventure!

Love this post very well written!! The part’s on ethical travel and covering the best eats I couldn’t have said any better myself, some of the best food i’ve had and soooooo cheap!??

Again, brilliant post guys, Vietnam really is a special place!

Thanks so much for the kind words, Aaron. Sounds like you had an amazing time in Vietnam! We loved it there and hope to go back someday. Maybe to see the entire country by motorbike 😉

Just wanted to say THANK YOU! Planning a 3-4 week trip to Vietnam and your post was incredibly helpful and thorough. Can’t wait to eat everything in sight!

Hi Carmela, that is so good to hear! I’m glad you’ve found it helpful. Don’t hesitate to ask if you have any more questions.

Best of luck with planning and packing and let us know how your trip goes. We think you’ll love Vietnam! (And yes, please eat EVERYTHING in sight! We’ve been craving Vietnamese food for the last few months and we can’t find anything like the real stuff. So jealous!)

This is a wonderful post! We honeymooned in Hanoi and Halong Bay and can’t wait to go back! Bookmarking this page for future reference for sure!!!

Thanks so much for the kind words, Adora. What a wonderful honeymoon spot! We can’t wait to go back someday too!

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All Destinations , Asia , Road Trip Itineraries , Vietnam

Full one month in vietnam itinerary – no stops missed.

Sitting at a kind of crossroads between the Orient and southeast Asia, with an incredibly rich and varied culture and history, Vietnam has some stories to tell. Not all of them good; many people can still remember the brutal war that took place there in the 1970s – and given this, it’s amazing how quickly the country has come back onto its feet and has opened itself up to international tourists.

Now, everyone is welcome in Vietnam. There’s so much to see and do packed into this incredibly diverse country – which at some points is just a thin strip of land between Laos and the South China Sea.

From the manic cities of Hanoi and Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), to rice terraces aplenty, to war sites, to the mystical karst stones of Halong Bay and Ninh Binh, nature lovers, culture seekers and food travellers will love this Vietnam itinerary.

This is an ultimate Vietnam itinerary of a month or longer. You could easily spend extra time in many of these destinations, which could extend your time here to two or even three months. If you’re just in Vietnam for a short time, check out my 10 days in Vietnam itinerary which details 3 suggested mini-itineraries.

How to get to Vietnam

Vietnam sits on the eastern coast of South East Asia. It borders China to the north and Laos and Cambodia to the west, and has overland border crossings with them all. It’s often a key player on a South East Asia itinerary.

It’s also possible to fly into Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City from international destinations. Flights reach these cities from other metropolises in South East Asia and further afield – however, it is generally cheaper to fly into hubs like Kuala Lumpur , Singapore and Bangkok .

Plus, overland travel in South East Asia is a great experience – you should try it!

Book your travel in South East Asia by clicking here.

Visas in Vietnam

Ok, this one’s a little complicated, so make sure you know exactly what you want/ need when you’re planning your trip to Vietnam . SOME (not all) nationalities get 15 days visa-free travel in Vietnam . This includes UK, some western European countries, Japan and South Korea. Some Asian countries can travel visa-free in Vietnam for longer. Tourists from the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand need a visa, no matter how long the trip is.

If you’re from a participating country but you want to stay for longer than 15 days, you’ll need a visa. If you’re not from a participating country, you’ll also need a visa.

If your stay is less than 30 days, you can obtain an e-visa (depending on your nationality). However, e-visas cannot be used to cross into Vietnam overland. If you want to cross into Vietnam from Laos, Cambodia or China and you wish to stay longer than 15 days, you’ll need to get a physical visa from a Vietnamese embassy. These can be obtained pretty painlessly from the bordering country that you’re in.

I crossed the border from Cambodia to Vietnam in May 2019 on the 15 day visa exemption and didn’t have any problems. I presume that this means that it is fine to enter Vietnam for 15 days visa free when crossing any land border, but with border corssings you can never know 100%.

You can get visas on arrival for up to 90 days if you’d like to stay in Vietnam for a longer time. These require a letter of invitation and can only be obtained when arriving by air.

Make sure that you look at your embassy’s website to get a full idea of the visa situation in Vietnam for your particular country.

WiFi in Vietnam

WiFi in Vietnam is generally pretty good. I think every guesthouse, hostel, and hotel I’ve stayed in had a strong enough connection to work and make WhatsApp calls. Most restaurants and bars and nearly all places to stay will have WiFi.

When to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam is a long, thin country with variable seasons. The winter can be cold in the north and it can dip below freezing in mountainous Sa Pa. In the south, it is always warm, with varying levels of humidity throughout the year.

The rainy seasons also vary; it takes place during summer for the north, autumn/ winter for the central coast and summer again for the south. Typhoons can affect the central coast from August to November – although they are very hard to predict and many a Vietnam itinerary goes ahead in these months without any issues.

So basically, the best time to visit the country varies  and you probably won’t get perfect weather throughout your whole one month in Vietnam. I’d recommend visiting in February or March. This is out of the rainy season for most of the country, it’s a bit warmer up in the north and not too hot in the south.

But if you’re visiting any other time, you’ll have great weather in some places and maybe not so perfect weather in other places. But it doesn’t really matter – nowhere in Vietnam becomes inaccessible in the wet season, apart from possibly the Mekong Delta and some more remote villages.

Health and Safety in Vietnam

Vietnam is generally, a very safe country – violent crime is incredibly rare. However, there are incidents of phone or bag snatching and pickpocketing, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. Do be wary when you’re there in particular – don’t wave your phone around and wear a cross-body bag rather than a shoulder bag. I’ve wrote a little more about the safety of HCMC in the Ho Chi Minh City itinerary section.

Vietnam is more developed than other countries in the region (which is incredible really, considering how recently the war ended) but there are still some health problems here. You’ll want to make sure your travel vaccinations are up to date before you go – check with your doctor which ones you will need. Malaria isn’t generally a problem in Vietnam , although dengue fever can be. You can’t drink the tap water in Vietnam.

Healthcare quality ranges in Vietnam, but you can find private clinics with English-speaking doctors in Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City. I recommend Family Medical Practice – I’ve used their services in Hanoi and they also have practices in the other mentioned cities.

Costs in Vietnam

In general, Vietnam is an affordable country to visit. If you’re careful with your spending, you can expect to spend anywhere from $20 to $50 per day while still enjoying plenty of local attractions.

Of course, like in other countries, the cost of travelling can increase rapidly if you stay in luxury hotels and dine in high-end restaurants – and reduce significantly if you eat street food and say in hostels!

You can view a breakdown of costs for Ho Chi Minh City here . Prices are generally similar in other big cities such as Hanoi and Da Nang, and slightly cheaper in the countryside.

Where to stay in Vietnam

Vietnam accommodation ranges from very basic homestays to hostels to five-star luxury hotels. I would recommend that travellers check out homestays where possible, especially in regional areas, as they’re a great place to get a slice of local life and culture. They are often very cheap at $5 or less per night for a private room.

Hostels are located in big cities and touristy areas and are great places to meet other travelers. Dorm rooms in hostels are also around $5 or less per night.

Hotels range from cheap digs for around $20 per night, to luxury hotels costing $150 or more per night. There aren’t as many luxury hotels in Vietnam as in Thailand – but Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang still have their fair share.

I’ll include some accommodation recommendations at each stop or you can select and book your Vietnam accommodation by clicking here .

How to Get Around Vietnam

The best ways to travel in Vietnam are bus, train and motorbike. I will cover mainly train and bus travel in this Vietnam itinerary (with the exception of the Hai Van Pass, which can be done either on independent motorbikes or a bike tour).

However, many travellers decide to purchase a bike in either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City – wherever they begin their one month in Vietnam – and sell it at the other end. Other travellers hire bikes in different cities to see them properly.

Or others, like me, take buses and trains everywhere and hop onto the occasional motorbike taxi or other traveller’s bike and hang on for dear life. (I’ve got a little better, but I first got on the back of a motorbike in Hanoi and spent most of the time screaming).

I’ve included ways to book your Vietnam train or bus tickets in each section of this one month Vietnam itinerary. I recommend Bookaway  – click here to go through to their website.

How Long to Spend in Vietnam

If you’ve got a month, spend a month in Vietnam. If you’ve got 6 weeks, take 6 weeks. BUT if you’ve only got one week, two weeks or three weeks in Vietnam and you really can’t extend your trip, here are the must-dos.

One Week in Vietnam

With just one week in Vietnam, you’ll want to focus on the must-dos and not spend too much time travelling. So I’d recommend…

Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Sa Pa

Hue – Hoi Van Pass – Hoi An – Da Nang

Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta – Phu Quoc

Two Weeks in Vietnam

You could just about do north to south on a two week Vietnam itinerary. You’ll be rushed, but it’s possible. This would entail:

Hanoi – Sa Pa – Ha Long Bay – Hue – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City

Or just do one half of this 4 weeks in Vietnam itinerary.

You could do either the north (Hanoi – Sa Pa – Ha Long Bay – Ninh Binh – Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An)

or the south (Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An – Nha Trang – Da Lat – Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta)

Three Weeks in Vietnam

You won’t be able to complete this entire one month in Vietnam itinerary with just three weeks in Vietnam, but you can pick and choose the parts which most interest you from both northern Vietnam and southern Vietnam. So, if you’re looking for a Vietnam itinerary for three weeks, read on and see where sparks your interest most!

One Month in Vietnam Itinerary

This one month in Vietnam itinerary takes you on a journey from north to south. It’s pretty extensive; covering nearly every stop of interest en-route – as well as a few side trips. 

This Vietnam itinerary begins in Hanoi, but you might want to consider starting at another point if you are entering overland from China, Laos or Cambodia. Travellers who enter the country from China or Laos will most likely begin in Sapa and then head down to Hanoi. If you’re crossing the Cambodian border, you’ll probably be starting in Ho Chi Minh city and travelling northwards. You might also want to do the reverse route if it fits in better with your travel plans.

Hanoi – 3 days

If Hanoi is your first Asian city, brace yourself. If it’s not, still brace yourself. The city literally never stops. Nothing ever stops here. It’s mad. Brilliant, but mad.

Bikes weaving everywhere making an incessant chorus of horns, shimmering lakes and impressive temples all define this city. Add some typical Hanoian street food and the sweltering heat of the summer and you’ve got a sensory overload.

Three days in Hanoi can be passed pretty pleasantly. Highlights include:

• Taking an open-topped bus tour to learn about the highlights of the city
• Visiting the women’s museum
• Exploring the Temple of Literature
• Going to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum
• Visiting the Ho Chi Minh House and the Ho Chi Minh Museum
• Walking around West Lake (Tay Ho) and exploring different sides of the city
• Seeing Hanoi’s Old Quarter by night

3 Days in Hanoi Itinerary

Spend day one of your three days in Hanoi on the open-topped bus (we did two circuits, one to take everything in and then again to decide where we wanted to stop off). It’s a great way to explore the city – which is lacking in public transport – and learn a little at the same time.

After orientating yourself with Hanoi, head to the Temple of Literature , which is located on the bus route. This was constructed as a university, built in 1070 to teach students about Confucius. You’ll get to see the Lake of Literature, as well as the ornate carvings and distinct architecture. It’s a place where the regal history of the Orient really comes alive. 

In the afternoon, take the open-topped bus to Hoa Lo Prison – an eerie spot where both Vietnamese rebels and American POWs were housed. It was sarcastically dubbed ‘the Hanoi Hilton’, but in reality this couldn’t be any further from the truth.

Walking around this ex-jail, you’ll learn about some of the darker parts of Hanoi’s history, which include its days as a French colony and of course, the American War (known by Westerners as the ‘Vietnamese War’). It’s a rather dark attraction, but is essential to visit to get to grips with this country.

On day two in Hanoi, get up early to see the Ho Chi Minh attractions. His mausoleum is a revered landmark in the city and is very significant to the Vietnamese. Ho Chi Minh, or ‘Uncle Ho’ as he is fondly known, was crucial to the Vietnamese struggle for independence and a key campaigner for a unified Vietnam. Here’s some more information about Uncle Ho.

You’ll need to cover up to enter the mausoleum and be sure to get there early – it’s best to arrive around 7am to queue for entrance at 8am. You’ll be expected to give in your bags with any photo-taking devices. You’ve also got to be quiet and respectful as you make your way around – don’t talk, dawdle or laugh. It’s a site of huge significance to many Vietnamese people – so make sure you’re respectful.

After the mausoleum, you can easily enter Ho Chi Minh’s house. This is a much more light-hearted attraction, with lots of greenery, beautiful ponds and the chance to see Ho Chi Minh’s house-on-stilts – an architectural style that is very typical of South East Asia and China. Then it’s time for the the Ho Chi Minh Museum – a great place to learn even more about this well-revered president.

You’ll be in Ba Dinh Square when you come out, which has a nice park, pleasant architecture and an all-round relaxed feel – away from the zillions of bikes. You might want to grab a coconut or even some lunch in this area (although beware, the prices are sky high here!).

If you want to check out somewhere cheaper, the next stop on your Hanoi itinerary is close to Hoan Kiem Lake. If you don’t mind a walk, wander from Ba Dinh Square towards Hoan Kiem. It’s about half an hour through motorbike-laden streets, but it’s a great way to get a slice of Hanoian life. You’ll also walk past Railway Street – here, people’s houses back onto the rails rather than a road. It’s a really unique set up and makes for some good photo opportunities.

There are plenty of street food stalls and restaurants serving Vietnamese fare en-route – or if you’re vegetarian or vegan (or just fancy some plant-based food!), check out Jalus Vegan Kitchen near Hoan Kiem Lake.

Here’s a map of this walking route so you can get a better idea of where everything is:

In the afternoon, check out the Women’s Museum , which is located near Hoan Kiem Lake. This is a great exhibition of women in Vietnamese society, demonstrating their expectations in native groups and how they influence the modern world. It’s really well set out and really pays homage to how fantastic women are – and we all know that’s true!

Spend the rest of the afternoon and evening back at Hoan Kiem Lake. It takes just 30 minutes to walk around Hoan Kiem, but you might want to spend a bit of time taking the pagodas, bridges and statues in. Hoan Kiem highlights include: 

• Den Ngoc Son (Temple of the Jade Mound)
• The Huc Bridge which is known as the ‘place where the morning sunlight rests’
• A statue of King Ly Thai To, Vietnam’s founding father
• The Tortoise Tower

The area is also close to the French Quarter, which is headed by the General Post Office. It’s worth walking from here to the Hanoi Opera House to check out the colonial buildings and essence of this area of the city.

Heading back towards Hoan Kiem as darkness falls, be sure to check out the Old Quarter. This is the busiest and most popular area of Hanoi –  you might even be staying here. Even if you’re not, be sure to walk around the brightly lit streets and take everything in, including Book Street, the Harry Potter Cafe Always and of course, the constant whirring bikes.

On day three in Hanoi, check out West Lake (Tay Ho). Home to impressive views over the city, lots of cafes and restaurants, and even a water park, there are plenty of attractions to enjoy here. You can walk around the entire lake – it’s a 19km stretch and takes 3-4 hours. Because there’s a lot to take in on the way, this could take you anywhere from half a day to a full day. 

Some of the best things to do around Tay Ho include:

• Tran Quoc Pagoda – Vietnam’s oldest temple
• Quan Thanh Temple – one of Vietnam’s four sacred temples
• Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural – this is the world’s longest mural and is a great presentation of all that Hanoi stands for.

There are plenty of places to eat (many of my favourite vegan restaurants in Hanoi are around the West Lake), grab a coffee or beer halls to enjoy $0.30 Bia Hoi. Take your time walking around West Lake and experiencing local life!

Click here for a more detailed Hanoi itinerary including where to stay, what to eat and the best things to do in and around the city.

Where to stay in Hanoi

The Old Quarter View hostel is a great option for backpackers who want to stay in the centre and enjoy free happy hour beer, free breakfast and a fun, social accomodation while being close to all of the tourist attractions. Click here to book.

Dragon Hotel is by West Lake and is great for easy access to the airport. It’s also in the middle of one of Hanoi’s best restaurant neighbourhoods and isn’t far from Hoan Kiem and the other attractions of Hanoi city. The hotel offers traditional rooms at great value. Click here for more information and to book.

Elegant Suites Westlake offers 5* luxury in Hanoi, providing studios and apartments with deluxe features, as well as a pool, gym and bar. Click here for more information.

From Hanoi, you can either take a train to Lao Cai and then transfer to a bus to Sa Pa, or take a bus all the way to Sa Pa. The bus is easier and quicker but the train is arguably more comfortable. I’d recommend taking the night bus or train so you save on a night’s accommodation and arrive ready for your trek the next morning.

Click here to check rates of both to make your decision.  

Sapa – 2-4 days

Trekking in Sapa is a bucket-list experience in Vietnam. While the town is touristy, the rice terraces offer some respite and – as long as you go with a decent tour provider – you’ll be able to experience some solitude and P&Q up in the fields. They’re unbelievably beautiful; the terraces spread as far as the eye can see, interrupted only by serene native villages.

I took two day one night tour with Ethos, a company committed to responsible travel. They work with native guides and open their villages on a CBT (community based tourism) approach. The money that Ethos makes goes into developing the villages, making life easier for those who lives there, and also funds projects like a trafficking awareness and prevention programme – trafficking is sadly a big problem in the Sa Pa region .

Ethos details all of these and other problems that H’mong people face in modern Vietnam – and are also very transparent in exactly what they are doing as a tour provider to help these communities. They’re a pioneer in sustainable tourism.

The guides are lovely too and can all speak very good English.

Basically, Ethos is an amazing company to support. The tour was brilliant as well – I stayed the night in my guide’s house and got to see what real rural life in Vietnam is really like. The food was absolutely delicious as well (lots of vegan options!).

Click through to see what Ethos are all about. This isn’t sponsored, it was just the best tour I ever went on!

Or check here for alternatives:

• Muong Hoa Valley Day Tour  
• 3 day Sapa tour
• Hoang Lien National Park Tour (less visited spots)

Other attractions in the area include waterfalls (you can hire a motorbike or take a taxi to see them), Cat Cat Village (which I’ve been told is touristy and not very nice, but many tourists do go there) and Mount Fansipan.

If you don’t want to climb up Fansipan, you can also take a cable car to the top. It costs $30 so is best to only do it on a clear day, but the views from the top are outstanding.

Sapa town, while touristy, is quite pleasant for a stroll around – but the real attraction is the rice terraces. You might want one day here to recover after your hike and maybe see a couple of waterfalls, but you certainly won’t need more than that. 

Where to stay in Sapa Town

Sapa Capsule offers pod-style dorm sleeping in Sapa. Each capsule is well-equipped and gives guests their own privacy – at budget prices. Plus, it’s located right in the town centre. Click here for rates and to reserve.

Sunny Mountain Hotel has comfortable beds, spacious rooms, lovely décor, and some rooms have mountain views. It also offers free breakfast. Click here for rates and to reserve.

Return to Hanoi by bus or train and stay one night before Halong Bay the next day. Check prices here.

Halong Bay – 3 days

Halong Bay is full of tourists, there’s no denying it. But it’s well worth visiting still – even in winter . The scenery is out of this world, and you get to see it all while cruising around on a luxury liner – or a booze cruise, whichever takes your fancy!

Activities on the boat include things like tai chi classes, cooking demonstrations, kayaking between the karsts, swimming, visiting local fishing villages and exploring caves. You’ll be in for an action-packed three days!

I did Halong Bay with Indochina Junk – an amazing luxury liner. The facilities of the boat were of the highest quality, with comfy beds, baths overlooking the ocean views, a clean and well-facilitated

Tours range from luxury ships to backpacker booze cruises. See below for a luxury, mid-range and budget pick.

Best Halong Bay Tours

Ha Long Dragon Gold Cruises is a 3* cruise company that offers two or three day cruises around the bay. Starting at $145 for a room for two people, it’s a great option to see Halong Bay and experience sleeping on the boat on the cheap.

Click here to learn more about Ha Long Dragon Gold Cruises and book today .

Seasun Boutique Cruise offers small cruises of a 3* standard, with compact ships and friendly, accommodating staff. They visit all the main attractions in the bay and offer some activities on the boat itself.

Click here to learn more about Seasun Boutique Cruises and book today .

Peony Cruises have huge, 5* rooms, some with their own private balcony. Each tour has a busy itinerary – perfect for those who want to see the most of Halong Bay. The boats also visit Lan Ha Bay.

Click here to learn more about Peony Cruises and book today .

Return to Hanoi (drop off is included with Halong Bay tours). Then travel by train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh the same evening – book tickets here.

Ninh Binh – 1 day

Ninh Binh is a beautiful place, described by many as ‘ Ha Long Bay on land ‘. It has similar limestone formations, but instead of being surrounded by blue seas, it is engulfed in rice terraces. While Ha Long Bay is possibly more dramatic, Ninh Binh gives you the chance to get up close and personal with all of the rock formations. 

Now, I’m only recommending one day in Ninh Binh. While it’s somewhere that you could easily chill out in for longer, to keep on top of this 1 month in Vietnam itinerary 1 day is all we can really spare. If you have more time, feel free to flop out and relax for a few days!  

If you follow this Vietnam itinerary to the tee, you’ll get into Ninh Binh in the evening. From the train station, you can get a taxi to Trang An – which is the spot where all the beautiful nature is! I’d recommend staying here over staying in Ninh Binh itself, as from here you can cycle to all of the attractions of Ninh Binh.

The following morning, I’d recommend a boat tour around Trang An . You can park your bike and purchase a ticket, which is around 150,000 dong. You’ll be in the boat for 2-3 hours and will explore caves and temples whilst being amidst spectacular scenery.

In the area you should also visit the Trang An Grottoes.

Then there are the rice terraces of Tam Coc  and the many temples – like Hang Ma and Bai Dinh Pagoda .

Hang Mua Caves  are worthy of some exploration, and the summit of the mountain by the same name is probably the best sunset spot in Ninh Binh. Head here to admire the view, and make sure you get there in good time to get a good spot to watch the sun go down! All of these activities are great ways to enjoy Ninh Binh on a budget .

After a day’s exploration of Ninh Binh, leave in the evening. A 7-hour bus travels from the city to Phong Nha, your next Vietnam destination! Click here to book in advance.

Where to stay in Ninh Binh

Trang An Eco Homestay is a chilled out hostel located in the beautiful nature of Trang An, and the hostel offers dorms and private rooms, as well as free breakfast, a restaurant, bike rental and local information. Click here to book. 

Trang An Valley Bungalow provides spacious self-contained cabins amongst the spectacular scenery. There is a pool, bar, free WiFi and a fabulous breakfast – and it’s in prime location to enjoy Ninh Binh’s highlights. Click here to book.

Phong Nha – 2 days

Phong Nha is home to one of the best cave networks in the world – if that doesn’t make it worthy of a spot on your Vietnam itinerary, I don’t know what will! 

It’s home to Son Doong, the world’s largest cave  but don’t get too excited – this cave can only be accessed on a multi-day, hair-raising, wild camping excursion. Partakers have to prove that they are fit and don’t find things like abselinging into a pitch black abyss scary, and also it costs $3000 and the tickets “sell out faster than Beyoncé tickets”, according to the Guardian .

Still, if you think you’re up to the challenge I’m sure it would be a worthwhile adventure – the cave is home to beaches, streams, jungles and clouds (the sunlight sometimes gets into cracks in the rock) and its 9km length means that it is big enough for airplanes to land in and could accommodate entire blocks of New York City apartments. Click here to get on the mailing list to find out when Son Doong expeditions are taking place.

Anyway, I digress. There are still plenty of things to do in Phong Nha that don’t involve camping to the sound of bats and being lowered into a crevice of which there is a good chance nobody has ever entered before.

Spend your first day in Phong Nha hiking through the Botanical Gardens (which are more like a national park with jungle and waterfalls). There are a few different treks you can do, but as you’ll be exploring another cave today, I’d recommend just doing the 1km or 2.5km hikes.

Then head to Dark Cave, which costs 450,000 VND. The trip only takes 2 hours but includes hiking, kayaking and zip lining, so is well worth your money! There are also nearby hot springs .

On day two, check out Phong Nha Cave which costs 150,000 VND to enter –  you’ll need to get a boat here – and Paradise Cave which costs 250,000 VND to enter. I know it’s a lot of caves and they’re quite pricey when you add them up but it’s well worth seeing them all while you’re in the area. Back in the town, you can check out the local market – or if you have a scooter, you could drive to the surrounding areas.

It’s easiest to take the bus from Phong Nha to Hue, and it takes between 4.5 – 7 hours. You can opt for a direct bus (one leaving at 4 am and another at 3 pm) or a tourist bus that stops at the Vinh Moc Tunnel and Ben Hai River. Click here for more information about buses from Phong Nha to Hue.

Where to stay in Phong Nha

Easy Tiger is the place to stay in Phong Nha if you’re a backpacker. It’s ‘more a resort than a hostel, with an amazing source of information about the area, a pool and a great social atmosphere. Click here for rates and to reserve.

Nguyen Shack – Phong Nha Eco Resort is a rustic homestay set in Phong Nha National Park. If the quaint cabins weren’t enough to tempt you, there is an on-site restaurant, and the homestay offers free pick-up and drop off from the centre, as well as free bicycle rental. Click here for rates and to book.

Hue – 3 days

Basking in the fame of being the ancient capital of Vietnam, Hue is a really quaint spot. As you can imagine, there’s a colossal amount of history to explore through its attractions and architecture.

You can see all of Hue’s historical attractions in one day (if you’re speedy and providing you take the 4am bus from Phong Nha!). These include:

• The Citadel (Imperial City)
• Tien Mu Pagoda
• Boat cruise along the Perfume River

A good one-day itinerary for Hue would be to organise a cruise with your hotel or hostel and travel up the Perfume River (which, btw, I wouldn’t recommend taking a sample of and using as actual perfume), taking in the city and its surrounding nature, to the Tien Mu Pagoda. 

This temple, while sometimes busy, is a must-do in Hue. It houses the remains of the car of Thích Quảng Đức – he set the car on fire while in it, committing suicide and acting as a martyr for the unjust treatment of Buddhists in South Vietnam. The pagoda in itself is striking, and has become an icon for the city, and it’s also well worth visiting to learn about the monk and his plight.

Then you can hop back on the boat and visit the Imperial City. The centre of Hue, this is a crucial spot to learn about Vietnamese history. From 1802 to 1945 the Imperial City protected the Nguyen Dynasty.

While it was once a complex of gardens, pagodas and regal buildings, the bombs dropped in the Vietnamese War means that many buildings are now nothing more than a pile of rubble. Due to Hue’s position in the centre of the country, it was fought over greatly in the American War, and was a crucial place during the Tet Offensive . 

The Imperial City is well worth a visit to learn about both the country’s regal history and the precarious position of the historic city during the war. 

There are actually a few different tombs that you can see around Hue. The closest is Tu Duc Tomb, which is one of the Nguyen Dynasty’s most ornate and scenic tombs. It dates back from the 1860s and costs 55,000 VND to enter. Visiting will give you a real sense of the grandeur of the old world of Vietnam. 

Plot twist – After all the fuss that went into creating this tomb, Tu Duc isn’t actually buried here. He was really laid to rest in a secret location in Hue – so secret that even historians don’t know where it is!

Other tombs worth visiting in Hue include the Khai Dinh Tomb which is 10km from Hue and costs 55000 dong to enter, and the Minh Mang Tomb, which is 12 km from the city and can be reached by boat.

At night, the streets of Hue come alive. There are plenty of eateries around the city – including a few traditional Buddhist restaurants. Or grab some street food, a cold beer, and watch the city go by.

Hue is also a good base for day/ half-day trips near the city. Most popular is probably the tour to the old demilitarised zone that separated North and South Vietnam. It’s a must do for people who want to learn more about the Vietnam war and how the country was divided. Tours include the Vinh Moc Tunnels, local villages, and the Ho Chi Minh Trail which extends into Laos and Cambodia.

You might have already seen these sights if you booked the sightseeing bus from Phong Nha – but if you do have the time in Hue I’d recommend doing this tour instead of the sightseeing bus, as you get to spend all day exploring the area and learning about this crucial part of Vietnam’s history. Click here to book the tour.

If you’re looking for something a bit more unusual and have a spare few hours in Hue, the Ho Thuy Tien abandoned waterpark is well worth a visit. Located just 8 kilometres from Hue city, it’s an eerie playground that’s often frequented by locals. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon outside of the city. Reach it by renting your own bike, or taking a Grab bike or taxi.

Where to Stay in Hue

The Dreamers is a fantastic clean hostel located in Hue City Centre. It has private and dorm rooms, free coffee and very helpful staff. Click here for rates and to book.

Rosaleen Boutique Hotel is a very welcoming spot, with staff that go above and beyond to make sure that you enjoy your time in Hue. The rooms are comfy and well furnished and breakfast is included. Click here for rates and to book.

After your two days in Hue, take a 2-hour train from Hue to Da Nang the next morning. Try to sit on the left-hand side of the train for stunning views of the beaches and the ocean! Click here for tickets from Hue to Da Nang.

The Hai Van Pass – 2 days

If you’re after an adventure, check out the Hai Van Pass . You can either partake in a motorbike tour or rent your own bike and do it. If you’re not a driver (like me), then doing an organised tour with very experienced drivers is a good option.

The Hai Van Pass is considered to be one of the best motorbike routes in South East Asia. You’ll weave around mountains while looking out over spectacular coastal scenery, admiring the lush green trees as well as the blue waters.

Tours leave Hue and make their way southwards to Hoi An. The only downside of this means that you skip Da Nang city – but this can be visited on a day trip from Hoi An as it only sits 30 minutes north.

If you’re pushed for time, check out this day motorbike adventure   and if you don’t want to be on a bike, take a peek at this retro jeep transfer . Or, if you want to spend longer on this stretch of road that was featured in Top Gear, check out Hue To Go Tours  who provide a 2D1N experience.

Da Nang – 2 days

Da Nang is a pretty unique city in Vietnam. Tall buildings line the beach, which then give way to tropical ocean. In contrast to Hue’s ancient history, Da Nang represents Vietnam hurling itself into the future – and doing so with style.

2 Days in Da Nang Itinerary

If you’re visiting during Vietnam’s summer, you’ll be very grateful for some beach time once you get to Da Nang! My Khe Beach is the most popular and largest – you can normally find an expanse of empty sand here.

It’s also worth visiting the Museum of Cham Sculpture in the city. 

A really awesome vegan restaurant in Da Nang is roots café. It’s a chill beachside kinda place, serving up Asian and Western food.

Night time is when Da Nang city really comes alive. Its many bridges light up and there are eateries and bars along the waterfront. If you’re after nightlife, the 7 Bridges Brewing Taproom and Luna Pub are both worth visiting. 

On day two in Da Nang, I’d recommend heading up to the Ba Na Hills. This is home to the famous Golden Hand Bridge – where two giant hands hold a walkway in mid-air. Check it out: 

Now, getting to the Golden Hand Bridge is a bit complex. It’s part of the Sun World Theme Park  which costs 700,000 VND to enter – and there is no way to pay to just see the bridge. Once you purchase your ticket, you can take a cable car through the mountains (it’s a spectacular ride) to the bridge itself.

Once you’ve got your photo, it’s worth making the most of your $30 and exploring the rest of the park. There is a pagoda and Buddha, manicured gardens, a medieval French village, arcades and more.

Remember that this area of Da Nang is at 1,400 metres altitude – so it’s 10-15 degrees colder than the city!

If you have another day in the city, it’s worth checking out the rainforest at Son Tra Peninsula or the tunnels and caves of the Marble Mountains. You can book a Marble Mountains day tour here – or rent a motorbike and start exploring!

I just took a Grab between Da Nang and Hoi An – but if you’re wanting to save a bit of money, cheap buses go there. Click here to find out prices and book.

Where to Stay in Da Nang

For somewhere a bit different, Rom Casa offers hostel accommodation in shipping containers! The private and dorm rooms are exquisitely furnished – making it more of a boutique accommodation than a hostel – and it is located in prime location between the Han River and the beach. Click here for rates and to book.

Adaline Hotel and Suite is located in the heart of Da Nang – some rooms have spectacular views over the city and beach. On site is a pool, bar and restaurant and breakfast is included. The rooms are modern, clean and chic. Click here to book.

Hoi An – 2 days

Everyone loves Hoi An. Everyone except me apparently. It wasn’t really Hoi An’s fault – it was raining and miserable while I was there, which really deflected from the enjoyment of it – but I did find it difficult to explore and very over-touristy.

But  I ain’t gonna say don’t go there. Some places just don’t work out for people – I’m visiting again later this year and I’ll probably love it then.

2 Days in Hoi An Itinerary

Day One in Hoi An should be spent exploring the old city. Check out spots like the Japanese Bridge, the old traditional houses and the museums. You need to buy a ticket to visit the old city and it lets you access five attractions.

Once you’ve enjoyed the quaint cobbled streets and aged buildings, get a taste of more traditional life by venturing out into the paddy fields. The best way to do this is rent a bike and just start exploring!

When night comes, check out the lantern market and have some delicious food, maybe at popular Hoi An restaurant Morning Glory.

Another fun day in Hoi An can be passed by enjoying a cooking class and heading to the beach, or just relaxing by the river.

Or take a trip out to My Son – it’s worth it if you haven’t seen Angkor Wat in Cambodia or are particularly interested in architecture. As well as ancient history with the temples, My Son has some war history – it was largely bombed in the American War.

As Hoi An doesn’t have a station, you’ll need to take a bus from Hoi An to Quy Nhon – check prices here . Or, if you want to go straight to the more popular destination of Nha Trang, click here for prices. 

Where to Stay in Hoi An

Because Hoi An is so popular with tourists, and because it has one of the most picturesque settings in the country, Hoi An accommodation is very high standard. Backpacker hostels have a great atmosphere, and many hotels are boutique-style.

Hoi An Vietnam Backpacker Hostels is a popular accommodation option that’s perfect for backpackers. Those staying here can enjoy the pool, free WiFi, free drinks at some times of day and stunning surroundings, looking out over the rice paddies of Hoi An. Click here to book.

An Bang Stilt House is a great private accommodation option – because you can’t go to Vietnam without staying in a stilt house, right? The villa has beautiful rooms featuring a wardrobe, private bathroom, and flat-screen TV. Click here to book.

Quy Nhon – 1-2 days

Vietnam has an impressive 3,260 kilometre coastline; meaning that there’s plenty of beaches to kick back and relax on. While you’ll have enjoyed the coastline in Halong Bay and Da Nang, this area of the central coast is where it really gets good.

Quy Nhon isn’t on everyone’s Vietnam itinerary, but if you’re after unspoilt, off the beaten track beaches, it’s definitely worth checking out. Highlights include the deserts, which are made beach sand that has been blown in, the Champa Double Tower, the deserted Ky Co Island, the natural phenomenon of Eo Gio and local fishing villages.

It’s also a great place to unwind if you want to enjoy the beach without many other tourists!

Click here for prices of buses from Quy Nhon to Nha Trang.

Where to Stay in Quy Nhon

As Quy Nhon isn’t so touristy, there aren’t a huge amount of hotels and hostels here yet.

But NT House is a good option for backpackers, with funky decor and a variety of room sizes, including budget dorms. Click here to book. 

Hung Gia Hotel has comfy rooms with en-suite bathrooms and facilities like a kettle and TV. Click here for more information.

Nha Trang – 2-3 days

Nha Trang is a popular beach town south of Quy Nhon – and it’s where all the tourists flock to. While this means it’s a lot busier, there are also many more facilities for tourism.

One of the things you’ll notice about Nha Trang is that a lot is in Russian;  which seems very out of place on the tropical beaches! This is due to its proximity to Cam Ranh, which was a naval port leased to the USSR/ Russia from 1978-2002. The area remains popular with both Russian expats and tourists, which is why there is so much written in the Cyrillic script!

Exploring this kind of Little Russia is really interesting in itself, but there are plenty of other things to do in Nha Trang.

2 Days in Nha Trang Itinerary

Most people spend day one in Nha Trang just soaking up the beach . Grab a coconut, laze out under the palms and relax. I’d recommend Hon Chong Beach or Tran Phu for beaches near Nha Trang City, or getting a boat over to Hon Tre Beach, possibly Nha Trang’s most famous. You might also want to visit one of the city’s famous mud spas to relax and rejuvenate after some serious travelling!

Day two could be spent touring the islands of Nha Trang. Doing a tour of the surrounding islands is a great way to really relish in the beach vibes – click here to book on a tour. 

Oh and, if you’re into scuba diving, Nha Trang is the best place in Vietnam for the sport. Maybe you’ll need a few more than 2 days here…

Next up is Mui Ne, famous for its sand dunes. Click here to see bus times and rates.

Where to Stay in Nha Trang

Mozjo Dorm is a great hostel option, with friendly staff, free towel rental, a free banana every day and cheap breakfast. Click here to learn more and book today.

Boss Hotel Nha Trang is a great mid-range option. It has spacious rooms and a pool, as well as a bar and breakfast facilities, at budget rates. Click here for rates and book today.

Sunrise Nha Trang is one of the best luxury hotels in Vietnam. The colonial style hotel has a spa and pool, with complimentary yoga sessions being offered! The spacious bedrooms are awash with natural light and some have a balcony. Click here for rates and to book.

Mui Ne – 1 day

A quieter destination on this Vietnam itinerary, there are still some things to do in Mui Ne to pass a day or two. The most famous of these is the sand dunes. Doing a tour of the red and white dunes and fairy stream is a must-do to break up the journey down south.

Click here for bus times and fares to Da Lat.

Where to Stay in Mui Ne

Mui Ne Vietnam Backpacker Hostels has a pool, free breakfast, water refills, beer between 6-7pm and WiFi, and organises jeep sunset tours to the dunes. It’s a great place to base yourself for meeting new people. Click here for rates and reserve.

Hoang Ngoc Beach Resort offers a pool and private beach, as well as comfy bedrooms – some with spa baths. Click here for rates and to book.

Da Lat – 1-2 days

Known as Vietnam’s capital of adventure, visiting Da Lat is an absolute must for any adrenaline junkies. Not too far from Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat sits at 1,500 metres above sea level – making it a fantastic place to escape to during the sweltering summer months!

Things to do in Da Lat

Datanla Falls are only 15 minutes from town and are well worth checking out, and Elephant Waterfalls are a longer journey (about 40km/ 1.5 hours), but give you the chance to see the countryside as well as traditional Dalatian (I may have made that up) life. It’s worth renting a bike for this alone!

Close to Elephant Waterfalls is the Happy Buddha and the Linh An Tu Pagoda. Lang Biang Mountain is also worth a hike up and offers unrivalled views of the city.

Many traveller’s favourite activity in Da Lat is canyoning. This abseiling/ rappelling excursion is not for the faint-hearted, but is certainly the most adrenalin-boosting thing to do in Da Lat. Tours generally include a few different abseils, hikes, and a traditional lunch. It’s definitely a great way to see Da Lat’s scenery and is perfect if you have 2 days in Da Lat or longer!

Back in Da Lat City, something that every traveller should experience is the Crazy House – a building designed by a local architect with Gaudi/ Alice in Wonderland vibes. Then there’s also the Truc Lam Pagoda which can be reached by cable car from the city centre (the Vietnamese sure love their cable cars!) and the Dalat flower gardens – which is where the city of flowers name was coined.

After the sun goes down, check out the Da Lat Night Market for some food (pleaaaasseeeee make sure whatever you’re eating is hygenic and hasn’t been left sitting out for a while, I got very sick after some market food in Luang Prabang in Laos. Even if there’s no meat, the threat of food poisoning is very very real – trust me) and Escape Bar for drinks and classic rock.

Click here for bus times and fares from Da Lat to Ho Chi Minh City.

Where to Stay in Da Lat

Mr Peace Backpackers House is a ‘semi-party’ hostel, perfect for backpackers who want a semi party. (If semi party means getting really drunk but still being in bed by 11pm, I’m so down, that’s my favourite type of party). They offer free WiFi, breakfast, scooter parking, a beer happy hour and patio bar. What more could you want? Click here for rates and to reserve. 

The Orchid Villa Da Lat is in a beautiful location, with spectacular views over the scenery. Each room has a flat screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom and outdoor dining area. Click here to learn more and book.

Ho Chi Minh City/ Saigon – 3-4 days

Saigon is Hanoi’s more glamorous cousin. It has less authentic buildings, and more flashing billboards, and trades Hanoi’s quaint lakes for an industrial river. However, it certainly doesn’t lack for scooters – you won’t believe that a city could have more than Hanoi, until you reach Saigon.

BTW, Ho Chi Minh City and Saigon are the same thing – but most Vietnamese people I’ve spoken to said they prefer to call it Saigon, so that’s what I do :). You can read more about the name change here  – there’s also a really poetic phrase that I like called ‘The Queen of Saigon’ which means someone who is campaigning or fighting for a lost cause. Can you tell I’m an English Literature student/ complete hopeless romantic?! 😉 

3/4 Days in Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary

Travelling through Vietnam is kind of like time travel, with every city being a bit different. When you finally arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll feel like you’ve been suddenly zoomed forwards into futuristic Vietnam. And, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, when you consider what this country has been through in the last few decades, this is overwhelmingly impressive. 

But Saigon has plenty of stories to tell, which you’ll learn in the War Remnants Museum on day one in Saigon. Understanding the war is essential for any travellers to Vietnam, and there’s nowhere that tells it better than here. The stories you learn in the museum will give you an outstanding admiration for Vietnamese people and how they managed to not only win the war, but rebuild their country.

Saigon’s other attractions can be enjoyed on a walk around the city after getting your full dose of history in the War Remnants Museum. They  include:

• The Opera House
• The Post Office
• Notre Dame Cathedral
• Reunification Palace – which costs 30,000 dong to go inside
• Museum of Ho Chi Minh City

Then head to Ben Thanh Market for dinner and shopping – and to just absorb the atmosphere. If you’re veggie/ vegan, you might struggle to find something here, but use the HappyCow app to locate a veggie restaurant near you!

Saigon is indisputably the best spot in Vietnam for nightlife. Check out Chill Skybar, which has amazing views over the bright city lights. Then head out to either Pham Ngu Lao in District 3 for Bia Hoi (which you might be needing after pricier drinks at the Skybar!) or if you want to stay in District 1, check out one of the live music venues or Lush Nightclub .

On day two in Ho Chi Minh City, take a trip out to the Cu Chi Tunnels. These were used for fighting and hiding during the Vietnamese war, and have now been preserved and restored.

You’ll get back between 1-3pm; other attractions to enjoy in Saigon  include the Thien Hau Temple, the Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine and the Jade Emperor Pagoda.

On your second night, Turtle Lake is a cool spot to check out, filled with dozens of street food vendors. And of course, there’s the Saigon nightlife again…

Day three in the city can be spent checking out Ho Chi Minh’s other attractions.

• Be sure to see the Museum of Vietnamese History – I know there are a lot of museums on this Saigon itinerary but this one is well worth it! It costs 15,000 dong to enter, 40,000 dong to take photos and 35,000 dong to see a water puppet show within the museum.
• The Bitexo Financial Tower is great for a view (take the lift up to the Eon Cafe where you can enjoy the view for free, provided you buy a pretty pricey drink)
• Shopping at Dong Khoi street is great for spenders – it is where all the designer stores of like, the entire country of Vietnam are focused.
• And head to San Art Laboratory for a slice of contemporary art.

If you’re after a nice meal in Saigon, one of the most famous restaurants is Hum Café – and guess what, it’s vegetarian! It’s got a huge menu with veggie twists on Vietnamese classics, which vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike love. I’d definitely recommend checking it out during one of your 3 days in Ho Chi Minh City.

If you’re short on time, take a day trip to the Mekong Delta. Tours include the floating market, the trades that exist on the Mekong, cycling around the villages and experiencing traditional dances. However, if you have 2-3 days, I’d recommend staying in the Mekong Delta area for that time to really get in touch with its magic.

Safety in Ho Chi Minh City

Soooo… about the safety of Ho Chi Minh City. I’ll start by saying that Vietnam is an incredibly safe country and I have never once felt my safety questioned here.  Neither have my friends who lived there (in Hanoi). However, Ho Chi Minh is widely known as the most dangerous city of the region – but I’m talking relatively here, obviously the most dangerous city in South East Asia is vastly different to  San Pedro Sula, the most dangerous city in Central America !

I haven’t heard any reports of armed robbery and I don’t think such a thing happens. But bag and phone snatching are common – I was warned by two locals while there to not wave my phone around (after spending so much time further north where it’s completely safe to do so, I didn’t even believe the first warning!). So wear a cross-body bag, don’t flash your phone around too much – especially right by the road where a motorcyclist could grab it – and just generally have a bit of common sense.

Scams are also apparently quite common in HCMC – again, I didn’t experience any but I’ve spoke to travellers who did. Wikitravel has a pretty extensive description of the most common scams – check it out here .

All that being said, I experienced no issues in Saigon, and didn’t get a bad vibe from the city either. I’ve felt in much more dangerous situations in London!

Next up is the wonderful Mekong Delta!

Click here for tickets from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho in the Mekong Delta

Many travellers skip the Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc. If you’re running out of time and want to continue straight to Cambodia, click here for buses from Saigon to Phnom Penh in Cambodia.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

City Backpackers Hostel is one of the best places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City, with free breakfast, coffee and tea and a great social atmosphere. Click here to find out more information and to book.

Avanti Hotel has clean, large rooms with lots of natural light and modern decor. It is set in district one of Ho Chi Minh City, near to the Ben Thanh Market. There is a bar and restaurant on site. Click here to book. 

For a 5* luxury experience, check out Silverland Charner Hotel.This colonial hotel has stylish rooms with chic features, with wicker furniture and deluxe bathrooms. On site is a swimming pool, fitness centre, bar and breakfast. Massages are available. Click here to book.

Mekong Delta – 3 days

The Mekong Delta is doable as a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City (as I’ve detailed above), but it’s well worth spending a little more time here if you have some spare days on your Vietnam itinerary. There are plenty of things to do in the Mekong Delta and guided tours really only touch on the highlights.

From Ho Chi Minh City, it’s best to first go to the city of My Tho. Here you can take a Sampan Cruise, see the Vinh Trang Pagoda and enjoy the Ben Tre province.

The next day, take a bus to Can Tho (if you’re planning on continuing to Phu Quoc and/ or Cambodia, it’s a good idea to change hotels to one in Can Tho) and check out attractions like the Cai Rang Floating Market, the Ninh Kieu Wharf, the famous Cai Be floating market and the Cai Be fruit orchard.

Fun fact: The Mekong Delta grows 70% of Vietnam’s fruit – so you’ll have a lot to admire and sample in the orchard!

The final part of the Mekong Delta worth checking out is right by the Cambodian border. Sam Mountain is the highest peak in the area, with spectacular views from the top, and the Tram Chim National Park is a haven for birdwatching.

From here, it is very easy to cross the border with Cambodia or head in a southwesterly direction to Phu Quoc.

If you want to book a bus/ boat from Can Tho to Phu Quoc, click here for rates and times. 

Where to Stay in the Mekong Delta

My Tho – Mekong Taste Bungalow is a rustic place to stay in My Tho, with free bikes and WiFi and an on-site restaurant. Each bungalow has its own bathroom, TV and air conditioning and rates include breakfast. Click here to reserve. 

Can Tho – Casa Inn Hostel has dorm and private rooms, with friendly and helpful staff, great showers, clean rooms and group trips. Click here to learn more. 

Vinpearl Hotel Can Tho offers luxury at a budget price, with spacious rooms, amazing views, a pool, gym and bar. Click here to find out more details.

Phu Quoc – 2-4 days

If you fancy some island time in South East Asia, but just don’t want to wrestle for the best sunset spot on one of Thailand’s over-touristed islands, check out Phu Quoc . A somewhat undiscovered island that actually sits very close to Kampot in Cambodia, Phu Quoc is a place to relax and unwind, maybe scuba dive if the mood takes you, and reflect on your jam-packed month in Vietnam.

You might be running out of days on your Vietnam visa by now, so take as little or as much time as you want in Phu Quoc. Plenty of people head here to just kick back on the beach – whereas others like to enjoy the Phu Quoc National Park and learn about its history in the Phu Quoc Prison. It’s also a prime scuba diving destination, with sites to rival those found in Thailand and Malaysia.

Where to Stay in Phu Quoc 9Station Hostel Phu Quoc is the ultimate backpackers’ chill out spot on the island, with free WiFi, free computers for guest use, free laundry and loads of chill out spaces. There is also a pool and daily happy hour deals. Choose from dorm and private rooms. Click here to see more information.

Dugong Resort Phu Quoc is great for those who want something a little quieter yet stick to a budget. The resort has a private beach and restaurant, and deluxe bungalows have their own bathroom. Click here for rates. 

If you want to enjoy ultimate luxury on the last stop of your Vietnam itinerary, check out Sol Beach House Phu Quoc. This resort has a huge pool area, a tropical garden and a spa. Rooms are furnished to the highest standard and there are three restaurants on site! Click here for more details. 

Where to go from Vietnam

If you’ve followed this Vietnam itinerary exactly, you’ll be right near the Cambodian border now. From here, you can easily hop on a bus to Phnom Penh ( click here for transport from Phu Quoc to Phnom Penh ) or Kampot ( you know the drill – click here for buses ). You could also venture a little north and cross the border into Laos – both of these countries offer a 30-day visa on arrival.

Of course, if you’ve spent your one month in Vietnam travelling south to north, you’ll be somewhere near the Chinese border right about now. You can cross over – I seamlessly crossed the Lao Cai/ Hekou border near Sa Pa with no issues last year – but you’ll need a Chinese visa.

You can also cross into Laos from the north – buses leave Hanoi and Sa Pa for Luang Prabang, or you can take local buses to smaller towns in northern Laos.

Or you can, of course, fly out. As mentioned, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh have decent-sized airports flying to various locations in Asia, Oceania and Europe.

What to Pack for Vietnam

Vietnam has a variable climate, especially in the winter. In the mountains of Sa Pa, it can snow in December and January – whereas Ho Chi Minh City still enjoys days above 30 degrees at this time.

So what should you pack for Vietnam? Clothing wise, you’ll probably need…

• Hiking boots and gear for Sa Pa
• Winter clothes if you’re visiting the mountainous north from November – February
• Swimsuit, beach towel, sarong for Ha Long Bay and the beaches further south
• Comfy shoes for walking around cities
• Rain jacket for somewhere in the country!
• Long trousers and cover-ups for temples and Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum

And for gear, I’d recommend including…

• A Vietnam guidebook – this will be very helpful when you’re exploring all the different attractions. Buy Lonely Planet Vietnam here .
• A travel adaptor – Vietnam uses European-style adaptors. So if you’re coming from anywhere else in the world, you’ll need your own adaptor. Purchase an international adaptor here.
• Suncream – Vietnam can be absolutely roasting, and many suncreams sold here have whitening in them. Plus suncream is one of the only things that’s a lot more expensive in Asia than back home. Purchase some suncream by clicking here.
• A Water-to-go-Bottle – You can’t drink the tap water in Vietnam – unless you have one of these jazzy gadgets. After flushing the filter initially, you’re good to drink tap water from it for up to 2 months – then you’ll need to change the filter. Click here to buy a Water-to-Go-Bottle .
• Metal Straws – Vietnam erm, loves plastic. And with its long coastline and the Mekong River, it’s somewhere where a lot less plastic would be very welcomed. Be a sustainable tourist by using metal straws (you can ask for no straw using the phrase ?). Click here to purchase metal straws before you go go.
• Power bank – Vietnam’s home to some long bus and train journeys, so you’ll probably want to keep your device charged. Click here to purchase one.
• Camera – you’ll want a good camera for all your Vietnam pictures! I use and recommend the Fujifilm x-a3 – click here to purchase one.

Being Respectful in Vietnam

It’s incredibly important to remember that Vietnam was a war zone just 35 years ago. I travelled some of Vietnam with my mum, who can remember hearing about the Vietnam War (known in Vietnam as the American War) as it unfolded.

If you didn’t know about the war and didn’t see any of the sites, you wouldn’t realise how catastrophic it was. But once you start reading about it, watching TV shows and visiting places like the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll discover its devastation, which will give you a huge appreciation for the people who have pulled through today.

Children are still born with defects after their parents or grandparents unknowingly ingested Agent Orange. Although a great effort has been made to clear the country of UXOs – and there is very low to no risk of UXOs being anywhere on this Vietnam itinerary – they are still present in the countryside .

So do the Vietnamese a favour, and educate yourself about the war before visiting and while in the country. Make sure that you’re not ignorant about it.

If you’re from the USA, don’t worry – the Vietnamese don’t have any hard feelings towards modern day Americans. A lot of work has been done to promote peace and good relations between the two countries, and they’re very aware that Americans travelling today had nothing to do with the war.

Useful Vietnamese Phrases

English levels in Vietnam vary – however, the government is currently hiring a lot of English teachers to boost the number of people who can speak the language. Most people in the hotel and tourism industry can speak good English, and in the cities many restaurant staff and others speak the language. Every tour guide I’ve had in Vietnam has spoke excellent English.

However, the locals will love you if you try to say a few words in Vietnamese. Due to it being very tonal, Vietnamese is a pretty tough language to learn (although here are 9 reasons why it might not be as hard as you think ). But even just an attempt at the basics will no doubt bring a smile to any Vietnamese person’s face!

Here are some words and phrases that helped me out when I was travelling around Vietnam:

If you want to learn a few more Vietnamese words and phrases, click here to buy a phrasebook .

Books to Read About Vietnam

As you may expect from a country with such an intricate past, there are many books to read about Vietnam. Most of these are available on Amazon – click through to read reviews of them and purchase!

• Mad About the Mekong – John Keay  – if you’ve spent any time in South East Asia, you’ll know that the Mekong is BAE. No in all seriousness, many people in Vietnam, Laos, Thailand and Cambodia rely on the Mekong for food, transportation and trade. This book discusses the Mekong’s development from a river with no bridges to the focal point of South East Asian society. Click here to read reviews and purchase.
• Vietnam – Rising Dragon – Basically everything you’ve ever wanted to know about modern Vietnamese politcs, culture and history. It was written by an ex-BBC correspondent who spent a lot of time in the country. It follows Vietnam from the end of the American War to present day. Click here to read reviews and purchase.
• At Home in the World – Thich Nhat Hanh  – this is a must read if you want to learn a bit more about the spiritiual side of Vietnam. Written by a Buddhist monk who talks about his spiritual upbringing, how he retained mindfulness during the war, and how he now travels the world teaching Buddhism. Click here to read reviews and purchase.
• Last Night I Dreamed of Peace  – this is the edited diary of Dang Thuy Tram, a Vietnamese war victim. Just the title alone pulls at my heartstrings – and the rest of the book does exactly the same. Click here to read reviews and purchase.
• Lonely Planet Vietnam  – I always use Lonely Planet guidebooks when travelling. Not only do I love the Lonely Planet story, but I consider them the finest in terms of content, quality and recommendations. Click here to purchase the Lonely Planet Vietnam.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this ridiculously long Vietnam itinerary! If you’ve read it all, you are the best. For more incredibly detailed itineraries, awful jokes and sustainable travel tips, add me on Instagram and Facebook – and don’t forget to share this article!

10 thoughts on “ Full One Month in Vietnam Itinerary – No Stops Missed! ”

Hey Claire! This is amazing – thanks for all the tips! Do you remember what specific Ethos tour is was that you went on while in Sa Pa?

This is such a comprehensive post – thank you! Really appreciated all this advice, since we are about to do 1 month in Vietnam (leave in 2 days from Laos) and were a bit lost on our itinerary.

Thank you for taking the time to write this – it means a lot to us! Lee

Thanks for this comprehensive itinerary. It’s been really useful for me… heading off to SEA in january next year. I’ll probably revisit this post many times till there. See you.

Hi! I loved your guide! I will be traveling to Vietnam in a couple of months so all of this is great info! If you don’t mind me asking, do you have an approximate idea of how much did you spend in your trip around Vietnam? I’m trying to budget my trip but there are so many things to consider that I’m a bit overwhelmed. Thank you!

Hi! This post was written after a few trips to Vietnam, so I don’t have a cost for this itinerary unfortunately, but generally Vietnam is a very cheap country to travel in. It depends on your style, backpacking hostels can be found for $3-$5 per night, street food for $1-$2, beer for under $1. Activities like Halong Bay and Hiking in Sapa will set you back a bit further – but I would recommend splurging out on good companies for these. If you want to stay in guesthouses with private rooms, these cost $10 or just under a night, and nice hotels start at around $30-$40 per night. A meal in a restaurant would cost around $5-10 (maybe cheaper) depending where and what you’re having. I hope that helps!

Hello, I’m just wondering what time of year did you go through Vietnam. My partner and I are travelling through on July which we understand is the wet season. It was the only time we could get off. We are looking at doing North to South aswell. Your Itinerary has been super helpful, thanks.

Hello, I’ve been to Vietnam in May, November and December. It is wetter in July both in the south and north, although not quite as rainy in the middle coast. It’s still feasible to travel, and is still a wonderful country to visit any time of year 🙂

Also, if you’re looking to buy handicrafts in Sapa, there’s a wonderful Hmong-owned shop called Hemp Embroidery that sells handmade goods – from hand-stamped indigo fabrics to traditional Hmong jewelry. One of the most iconic destinations within Vietnam is the lush island cliffs rising from the still waters of Ha Long Bay. Choosing from the numerous boat cruises is a tough task, especially when there are a lot of scams scattered on the Internet.

Thanks for the tip!

Thanks for the tips!! I am ready to commit and book a trip to Dunedin (through Auckland), New Zealand, departing Portland, OR (PDX) on Tues., Feb. 17, 2015, and returning from Auckland on Tues., March 31, 2015. I have always been of the earlier is better philosophy, for the peace of mind knowing that I can then continue to plan the trip. My husband alerted me to your advice, however, which says to book for this destination just 70 days out. I told him I just can t do that. We are not looking for the cheapest airfare. The shortest duration and most convenient for us are more important, but of course we don t want to overpay if we don t have to! Right now I m seeing the most convenient at about $1,950. Actually, I did book RT Auckland, thinking that I would add on a one-way to Dunedin, then realized that it might be cheaper (and more convenient) to have it all on one itinerary. I have about 8 hours to cancel that (without penalty), then I would book the desired trip. Only I m not seeing the original flight out of Portland now. Should I just wait?? I know New Zealand is a popular destination, and we ll be going while they re still enjoying summer there.

Comments are closed.

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One month Vietnam Itinerary: Travel guide, tips and recommendations

• July 27, 2023
• curious goose

This post may contain affiliate links. I will receive a small commission if you use these links.

Planning a trip to Vietnam, but not sure where to start? This 1 month itinerary covers all the places my husband and I visited during our 4 week trip to Vietnam in May 2022. In this guide, I’ll share my Vietnam highlights, must-see places… and also the places I didn’t enjoy so much, along with recommendations and my top tips for travelling in Vietnam.

First time in Southeast Asia? Make sure you also check out my 50 essential travel tips for visiting Southeast Asia to help plan your trip!

Vietnam is a beautiful country in Southeast Asia, known for its stunning green landscapes, winding roads and bustling cities. It is a country of contrasts – with busy cities and sandy beaches in the south and rolling mountains in the north.

During our 4 weeks in Vietnam, we travelled from south to north, starting in Ho Chi Minh City and ending in Hanoi, but you can also do this route north to south.

Table of Contents

One month vietnam itinerary: travel guides, tips and recommendations, ho chi minh city: days 1 - 3.

Vietnam’s largest city, Ho C hi Minh City , is located in the south of the country. It’s a modern, vibrant city which is full of life – day and night. You’ll find all the things you might expect from a large city: big shopping malls, skyscrapers, fast food chains and rooftop cocktail bars. Despite the relatively new development in the city, there are still some traces of the traditional Vietnamese way of life, with local markets, street food stalls and small local restaurants and noodle shops tucked down little side roads.

Some of the best places to see in Ho Chi Minh City are located in the area around the Nguyen Hue Walking Street . This tree-lined pedestrianised promenade connects the Ho Chi Minh City Hall with the Saigon River . Strolling along Nguyen Walking street you can admire the architecture of the City Hall and the Opera House and see the statue of Ho Chi Minh himself.

There are plenty of restaurants and cafes on either side of the walking street, including the famous Cafe Apartments . The Cafe Apartments are a collection of businesses, shops and cafes housed in an old apartment block and are one of the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City. After you’ve taken a quick photo of the Cafe Apartment building from the outside, pay a visit to one of the cafes inside and grab a seat overlooking Nguyen Hue walking street – I can personally recommend Dosh for their shakes!

Another one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most visited places is the War Remnants Museum . The museum provides extensive information regarding the American-Vietnam war with 11 rooms of photographs, news articles and diary entries. There’s also a small exhibition detailing life in the war prisons and several planes and tanks on display outside of the building. This is quite a sobering visit but it is very informative and covers an important part of Vietnam’s history.

After you have visited the War Remnants Museum, take a daytrip to the Cu Chi Tunnels , located 2 hours outside of Ho Chi Minh City. A trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels is one of the most popular day trips from Ho Chi Minh City. Here, you can learn how the Vietnamese soldiers used the underground tunnel network in their battle against the American army in the war, and even experience what the tunnels are like for yourself.

Other great places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City include the Ben Thanh indoor market , where you can shop for clothes, shoes, souvenirs and local food produce and for nightlife in Ho Chi Minh, head to the lively Bui Vien walking street , with large nightclubs and bars.

Dalat: Days 4 - 6

Dalat is a mountain resort in the south of Vietnam, which is centred around the pretty Xuon Huong lake . The most popular way to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Dalat is on the overnight sleeper bus. This can take between 7 and 9 hours, so expect to arrive in Dalat early in the morning. Dalat is a great place to stop to break up your journey between Ho Chi Minh City and the coast, and 2-3 days in Dalat will give you plenty of time to explore the main sights here.

One of the best things to do in Dalat is to visit The Crazy House . The Crazy House is a bizarre collection of buildings and spaces connected by undulating bridges and twisting walkways where nothing is normal. The cost of the Crazy House is only 60k vnd per person (£2) and is walking distance from the centre of Dalat, making it a great activity to do in the city. You can even stay overnight at the crazy house in one of the themed rooms!

Another of Dalat’s most popular attractions is the Datanla Waterfall . The waterfall is quite commercialised and its popularity does mean that it can get busy, however it is a fun way to spend a couple of hours in Dalat. The best thing to do at Datanla Waterfall is to ride the Alpine coaster through the forest!

Located close to the Datanla waterfall, just outside of Dalat, is the Truc Lam Lake and Buddhist Monastery . Take a ride on the Dalat Cable Car between the Monastery and Dalat city for panoramic views over the forest hills and lake.

In the evening, go for a wander around Dalat night market . Although it’s not as good as some of the other night markets I’ve been to in Chiang Mai and Phuket in Thailand, there is a fun atmosphere here. As well as market stalls selling clothes and shoes, there’s live music, street food vendors and hotpot restaurants where you can cook your own BBQ meat and seafood.

Nha Trang: Days 7 - 8

Nha Trang is a popular seaside resort in the south of Vietnam and is just a scenic 3 hour bus ride from Dalat. Initially we weren’t planning on stopping in Nha Trang, however, we decided that a couple of days relaxing on the beach sounded pretty nice.

Nha Trang is most famous for its long sandy beach, which stretches for almost 6km. Alongside the beach is a pedestrianised beachfront promenade with landscaped gardens, shady benches and drinks stalls. Overlooking the beach are tall skyscrapers and high rise hotels on a busy main road. Nha Trang is already a popular destination with local visitors, but it has received a great deal of recent development specifically aimed at bringing in more foreign tourists. There are modern shopping malls, fast food chains and lots of western restaurants and markets.

Although Nha Trang is quite popular, personally I wasn’t blown away by it. Perhaps this is because we visited in May 2022, when tourists had only just started to enter Vietnam again. The effect of the pandemic and lack of tourists over the previous 2 years was evident in Nha Trang and it felt a little lifeless to me. Also, the beach was not as pristine or clean as I had anticipated. So overall, I was left feeling a little disappointed. The silver lining for our stay in Nha Trang was the fact that we had a really nice hotel. We stayed in the Apus Hotel, which had a rooftop pool and small gym overlooking the sea and was a great place to relax and recharge for a couple of days.

If I was to take this trip again, I would definitely skip Nha Trang and head straight to Hoi An from Dalat. However, if you want to break up the journey, then Nha Trang is a good place to stop as you make your way up the coast. There are some nice hotels here if you just want to take it easy for a couple of days.

Hoi An: Days 9 - 12

Hoi An was one of my favourite places that we visited during our 4 weeks in Vietnam. From Nha Trang, we took the overnight sleeper bus and arrived in Hoi An at 5am. Hoi An is most well known for its historic unesco-heritage ancient town . Parts of the ancient town date back to the 15th century and it’s full of charm and character. Strolling through Hoi An’s ancient town amongst the old yellow buildings with traditional wooden shutters adorned with beautiful colourful lanterns is one of the best things to do in Hoi An.

Another great way to explore Hoi An is by bicycle and many of the hotels and guesthouses offer free bicycles for guests. Spend a few hours cycling out of the ancient town, into the more rural areas of Hoi An and to the beach. We stayed just outside the Ancient town at Onion homestay , which was fantastic and in a great location. One of the most popular activities in Hoi An is to take a ride on a coconut basket boat . The basket boat tour is very touristy but a lot of fun and a must-do when in Hoi An!

Hoi An is also a great place for shopping and there are many tailors in the town where you can get a tailor made outfit for a fraction of the cost back home! For one of the best things to do at night, visit the Hoi An night market and pick up some souvenirs or local street food before taking a ride on a rowing boat on the river.

Hoi An is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam, in my opinion, and is a great addition to any Vietnam itinerary!

Hue: Days 13 - 15

Hue is just a short 3 hour bus journey from Hoi An and is known for its ancient Imperial City, which is the main reason we decided to visit Hue. The imperial city in Hue was built in the 1800’s and originally consisted of over 147 buildings. The city was an important site for the political and daily affairs of the Nguyên emperors who reigned between 1892 – 1945. Unfortunately the imperial City was heavily damaged during the American-Vietnam war, but parts of it have since been restored.

Entry for foreigners to the Royal Palaces of the Imperial City is 200k vnd (£7). To be honest I thought this was a little high compared to other sites we have been to in South East Asia. And I have to admit, after visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok and the incredible Angkor Wat complex in Cambodia, I was a little underwhelmed by the imperial city in Hue. In addition to the Imperial City, there are several pagodas and tombs around Hue which you can visit either by taxi, hiring a scooter or joining a tour. Apart from visiting these and the Imperial City, there isn’t a lot else to do in Hue.

In hindsight, we would have been better going straight from Hoi An to Phong Nha as we didn’t really enjoy Hue too much.

Phong Nha: Days 16 - 18

Phong Nha is a relatively new destination for tourists in Vietnam. Following the discovery of Son Doong – the world’s largest cave back in 2009, the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park has been slowly growing in popularity for thrill seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The town of Phong Nha is relatively small but there are several guesthouses and hostels as well as restaurants and convenience shops. The closer you stay to the main town centre, the more options you will have for places to eat. We stayed at Lucky Homes guesthouse which was really nice and we loved having our breakfast overlooking the river each morning.

Getting to Phong Nha can be tricky, especially if you’re on a budget, as there are fewer public transport options available. When we travelled in May 2022 most of the routes connecting Phong Nha with the larger towns were not back up and running yet. This meant that we had to get a bus from Hue to Dong Hoi, then take a 50 minute taxi ride to Phong Nha, which we arranged with our guesthouse. I would recommend contacting your accommodation to help you arrange transport to and from Phong Nha. They will be able to give you up-to-date information on which routes are running, rather than relying on internet booking sites.

Song Doong Cave

The main reason visitors go to Phong Nha is to visit the incredible collection of caves here. The most impressive cave in Phong Nha National Park is the Song Doong cave. It was originally discovered in 1991 but wasn’t properly explored until 2009 and was announced as the ‘world’s largest cave’. If you want to join an expedition into this cave, you will need to be an experienced climber and book far in advance. The expedition takes 4 days and costs around $3000 per person. But there are lots of other Phong Nha experiences you can book that are more budget friendly!

There are even some smaller caves which you can visit without a guide. During the two days we spent in Phong Nha, we visited Paradise cave and Phong Nha cave.

Paradise Cave

Paradise cave (known locally as Thien Duong cave) is one of the most popular caves in Phong Nha National Park. From Phong Nha town, you can either get a taxi or hire a scooter and drive there. From the entrance, it’s just a short 1km walk to the base of the cave or you can pay for a shuttle bus. When you reach the base of the cave, there are about 600 steps to reach the cave entrance. Paradise cave was only discovered in 2005 and is 31km long, making it the longest dry cave in Asia. You can walk 1km on the raised wooden boardwalks through the cave and it really is incredibly impressive.

Words and photos do not do this place justice, you just have to see it for yourself! I would highly recommend visiting this cave when you are in Phong Nha. If you want more of an adventure, you can pay for a guided tour which will take you another 4km into the cave with proper equipment.

Another popular cave in Phong Nha National Park is Dark Cave (known locally as Hang Toi). This cave is particularly great for those who want an adrenaline rush and a fun day out. You will need to join a guided tour to visit this cave as you’ll be zip-lining to the entrance of the cave as well as canyoning, wading through water and taking a mud bath!

Although the famous caves are the main reason people visit Phong Nha, there’s also several hiking trails around the National Park. As Phong Nha grows in popularity, now is a great time to visit and if you enjoy being outdoors, this is definitely one place you should add to your Vietnam itinerary.

Phong Nha Cave

Visiting Phong Nha cave requires you to take a boat ride so this is a great cave to visit if you don’t want to do much walking. Purchase your ticket from the office in the centre of town for 150k vnd (£5) and wait to be joined by other passengers. You will have a scenic boat ride down the river to the entrance of the cave. The boat will float gently into the cave for a short distance, before turning around. On your way out, there’s an option to jump off and walk about 500m through a small section of the cave, before getting back on the boat.

Ninh Binh province / Trang An / Tam Coc: Days 19 - 23

Following our time in Phong Nha, we got a taxi back to Dong Hoi where we caught another overnight bus to Ninh Binh and then a taxi to Trang An. Ninh Binh is in the north of Vietnam, and is both a city and province. If you’re thinking of travelling to Ninh Binh, don’t stay in the city, there’s nothing to see there, instead, you want to be in the region around Trang An and Tam Coc, which are located in the province of Ninh Binh.

Tam Coc is the main town in this area and you can find several convenience stores, larger hotels and hostels as well as bars, restaurants and salons. If you are looking for something quieter and more peaceful, stay in Trang An instead. We stayed at Trang An Memory homestay in a little chalet hut, nestled under the mountainside with views of the lake. The setting was idyllic! If you want something more central and lively, the Banana Tree hostel in Tam Coc is a popular choice.

Ninh Binh province is often referred to as ‘Halong Bay on land’ due to the numerous limestone and karst mountains which are dotted all over the region. It really is a beautiful place to visit and this was one of my favourite places in Vietnam.

One of the best things to do in Ninh Binh is to take the Trang An scenic boat ride . You will float along the river on a small rowing boat through beautiful mountains, caves and lush green landscapes. Another great thing to do near Ninh Binh is to go to Hang Mua viewpoint . There’s a short climb up a series of steep steps to the top of the viewpoint. From there, you will get panoramic views across the rice fields, mountains and Trang An river.

Other sights in the area include Am Tien Lake, Hoa Lu Ancient capital and the Van Long nature reserve . Perhaps one of the best ways to explore Ninh Binh province is to hire a bicycle (or many of the home stays have them for free) and cycle around the countryside, taking in the views. This was definitely my favourite way to spend the day.

Hanoi (stopover before Halong Bay): Day 24

From Ninh Binh, it is a short 2 hour bus journey to Hanoi. We had just one night in Hanoi initially, ahead of our overnight trip to Halong Bay the following day.

Of course, if you wanted to go to Halong Bay, you could spend several days exploring Hanoi first, then go to Halong Bay at the end of your trip. At the time of our visit to Vietnam, there were only a limited number of operators running cruises to Halong Bay, so we had limited options in terms of days when we could join a trip that was still available.

Halong Bay: Days 25 - 26

Cruising in Halong Bay is one of the top ‘Bucket list’ activities for many people visiting Vietnam, including me. We chose a one night, two day overnight trip with Athena Cruise and had a great time. The tour included a bus transfer from and to Hanoi as well as all our meals on board the boat and several excursions.

During our two days on board we visited Sun Sot (Surprising cave) and Titov Island, where you can climb the viewpoint for some of the best views over Halong Bay. We also had the chance to kayak in Luon Cave and enjoyed relaxing on the sun deck. Watching the sunset and then rising again the next morning in the middle of Halong Bay was such a special moment. If you are considering a tour to Halong Bay , make sure that you research the itinerary as there are many companies who offer various tours with different excursions included. I’ve written a full review of our Halong Bay cruise here , so you can have a look at what to expect.

Hanoi: Days 27 - 30:

The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is known for its historic architecture, bustling Old Quarter and the now-famous Hanoi Train Street. In stark contrast to the modern Ho Chi Minh City in the south, Hanoi is much more traditional. It’s a melting pot of Chinese, French and Southeast Asian influences and is quite charming.

One of the best things to do in Hanoi is to wander around the Old Quarter . Here, you’ll find a maze of narrow streets with local stores selling everything you could possibly want and need! Head over to Hanoi’s famous Train Street and pick a spot in one of the cosy cafes overlooking the train line and watch as the train passes by with only inches between you!

In the centre of Hanoi is Hoan Kiem Lake . There is a paved path all the way around the lake, perfect for exercising or a leisurely walk around. The Temple of Literature is another great place to visit in Hanoi. The small temple complex is centuries old and sits within beautiful landscaped gardens.

If you happen to be in Hanoi over the weekend, you’re in luck as the Hanoi Night Market takes place every week Friday – Sunday and is a great way to spend an evening in Hanoi. For some of the best nightlife in Hanoi, head to Beer Corner . There’s such a fun atmosphere here, with everyone sitting on small plastic chairs outside the bars enjoying the music with some drinks and street food.

Is there anything I would change about my Vietnam itinerary?

As the saying goes, hindsight is a wonderful thing and yes, there are definitely a few things I would change or recommend that you do differently.

As we only had one month in Vietnam, it was hard to fit everything in and unfortunately, this meant we didn’t get a chance to visit Sapa. This was a mistake. I’ve since spoken to fellow travellers who visited Sapa and they loved it and the photos from there really do look beautiful. If I could change anything it would be to remove Nha Trang and Hue from this itinerary and instead, use the extra days to visit Sapa at the end of the trip. The only other thing I wished I could have done differently was to have spent more time here! I loved Vietnam, it really is a great country to travel in and the landscapes are just beautiful.

Useful information for travelling in Vietnam

When is the best time to visit vietnam.

The climate in Vietnam varies depending on where you are in the country, as the seasons in the north and south vary slightly. But overall, the best time to visit is between January and May. The worst time to visit Vietnam is between August – October when the country experiences its highest rainfall.

How to get to Vietnam?

By plane: Vietnam has three international airports in Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and Hanoi. Flying into Vietnam is straightforward and can be easier than crossing a land border, but it is the more expensive option. If you are travelling the length of the country, it is best to fly into either Ho Chi Minh City and work your way up to Hanoi, or fly into Hanoi and work your way down. This means that you would be flying in and out of a different airport, so book two one-way tickets, unless your airline allows you to book a multi-city ticket.

By land: Vietnam has several land borders with Cambodia, Laos and China. There are buses that run between Cambodia and Laos with Vietnam and from China there is a train into Hanoi. At the time of my visit in May 2022, I was travelling to Vietnam from Cambodia and the land borders had only just reopened. Unfortunately not all of the large bus companies were operating routes across the border between these two countries. However, I did manage to find a small, local company via a Vietnam travel group on Facebook who offered a shared minibus to get across the Moc Bai border. As of December 2022, I understand that more companies are now operating on this route again.

Moc Bai is one of the busiest land border crossings between Cambodia and Vietnam, travelling between Phnom Penh in Cambodia and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. If you are travelling via land border, make sure that you have all your paperwork prepared and watch out for scams – they are more frequent at the land borders sadly.

Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Most nationalities will need a visa in order to visit Vietnam. Currently, tourists can only apply for a 30 day visa, and unlike previously, this cannot be extended in the country. If you want to stay in Vietnam for longer than 30 days, you will need to leave the country and re-enter on a new 30 day visa.

How to get around Vietnam?

Travelling in Vietnam is relatively easy. For getting around in the towns and cities, taxis and motorbike taxis are readily available, and in the larger cities public buses are also a great way to get around cheaply. If you are travelling a longer distance between places, there are many overnight sleeper buses – this is definitely the best way to travel long distances in Vietnam, especially if you are on a budget. The buses can be booked via sites like 12go, or ask your hotel or hostel to help you book one. One thing to note when booking the overnight sleeper buses is that they often arrive much earlier than scheduled, which means you might be left outside at 5am waiting to check into your hotel or hostel! If budget is not an issue, then the best and fastest way to travel long distances is to fly.

What currency does Vietnam use?

The currency of Vietnam is Vietnamese Dong (vnd). It helps to arrive in the country with some ‘dong’ as you will need this to pay for taxis or buses on arrival. There are places where you can exchange money, however we found that they were in tourist offices or jewellery shops, rather than designated currency exchange offices, even in larger cities like Ho Chi Minh. Always check with your hotel or hostel which exchange places are reputable to avoid getting ripped off.

There are plenty of ATM’s in the larger towns and cities, so you can withdraw dong, however be aware that many of the cash machines will charge, even if your bank doesn’t. I travel with a Starling bank card, which is great for avoiding bank charges abroad. Also, always remember to select ‘transaction without conversion’ at the ATM to avoid high exchange rates on your withdrawal.

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Perfect Vietnam Itinerary 1 Month

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Nov 7, 2023 | Asia , Travel Tips , Vietnam

Wondering how to backpack Vietnam for one month?

This Vietnam budget guide is based on a 25 days itinerary. One goal; make the most of the country by respecting the time limit and a tiny budget.

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If you are asking yourself what to do in Vietnam, you should stop now. This is for you! You will also find some of the best backpacking Vietnam tips! If you’re planning to be in Vietnam for two weeks, you can also check out these Vietnam itineraries .

Of course, you can use this guide to help you plan your itinerary regardless if you’re planning to stay one, two or three weeks!

Backpacking Vietnam on a budget was so much fun! I was there at the wrong time of the year, but it didn’t stop me! In fact, I’d go back anytime even during the rainy season.

I started the trip in Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) and finished the trip at the same place to fly out to Australia for a decent price.  But, as I didn’t really spend a lot of time in Ho Chi Minh in the first place, I’ll finish with it in more detail.

Prices are based on the low season – and negotiating skills.

Do you have your Vietnam visa? Get your visa today!

Phu Quoc Island

I needed a beach. And the sun. I was craving it. It has been a while and I was already googling the best beaches in Vietnam while I was in Cambodia.

So, I found a nice beach around Phu Quoc Island, but the sun didn’t join the party.  We still managed to make our way around the island discovering quiet beaches and getting off the main roads experiencing the mud and an off-road ride.

If you had to do one thing while you’re there; you should hop on a motorbike and get lost.  You’ll end up on a very nice beach I can guarantee.

How to get to Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc is in the very south and pretty close to Cambodia . I booked an overnight bus from Ho Chi Minh including pick-up, bus, and ferry and it cost VND 425,000. When the lovely lady told us the price, we managed to get it way cheaper than the original price.

You can also fly to the island for a decent price with Jet Star Asia. That’s what I did on the way back for a tiny VND 300,000.

From Ho Chi Minh airport, you can get to the city center for VND 20 000 by shuttle bus.

Where to stay in Phu Quoc Island

You can find cheap dorms for USD 5 a night.

Check for a dorm now!

Mui Ne was one of my favorite places in Vietnam. The weather was great and I was totally impressed by the sand dunes, especially the white ones.

We spend hours enjoying the views and jumping throughout the dunes. It was a funny memory!

You can visit the sand dunes by yourself by hiring a motorbike, but backpackers can be spotted easily by police officers and you might end up bribing them at some point. We were pretty lucky and managed to reach the dunes without handling the police.

Some hostel members might warn you and then, it will be up to you to take the risk or not.

If you had to do one thing while you’re there; you should walk across the white dunes.  Stop for a minute to enjoy the view.  Then, you should run and jump! (Disclaimer; this choice is yours, so be careful!)

Planning your upcoming adventures? Travel by bus! (It's cheap!)

How to get to mui ne.

Mui Ne is still in the south and it’s not too far from Ho Chi Minh.  We arrived in the middle of the night around 3AM. The bus fare was VND 100,000.

Book a bus now!

Where to stay in Mui Ne

You can find cheap dorms for USD 2 a night.

If you have more time, you could also add Nha Trang to your itinerary!  I personally decided to skip it as I heard a lot of bad comments about it coming from backpackers I’ve met along the way.

I spent a lot of time in Da Lat as the weather was tricky.  In September, it was raining every afternoon so we needed to try to get up early to make the most of the day during the morning.

I was amazed by the waterfalls and by the road to get there.  (It was a long way, we managed to get 3 flat tires in two days, but it was so worth it!)  We also enjoyed the 100 roofs bar which is a crazy labyrinth.

The person who thought of this was insane – the result is simply awesome!  When I was in Da Lat, I had the opportunity to attend a wedding, which was also a fun experience (it looked like nothing I knew from back home)!

We ended up celebrating a few after parties and it ended pretty early surprisingly!

We also dared to sing Karaoke.

If you had to do one thing while you’re there; you should hop on a motorbike and enjoy the long ride to reach Pongour Waterfall.

Solo backpacking in Vietnam

How to get to Da Lat

From Mui Ne, we took a bus to Da Lat which cost VND 90,000.

Where to stay in Da Lat

I had the privilege to stay at Tay Backpackers, which is a new hostel in Da Lat. The owner is young and full of energy! He’s the one who invited the crew to the wedding! He was really helpful too!

The place was clean and the food was great! They also provide a family dinner (which is free and free is sexy!) for your first night where you’ll learn how to make spring rolls.

Find a dorm now!

Hoi An is one of the major stops on the coast. It doesn’t really matter which way you are going as long as you need a break to split the long journeys. 

I found Hoi An pretty touristy where you can find a day and a night market, many shops and restaurants.  In fact, you could easily create a new wardrobe while you’re there.

You’ll find many tourists on a bicycle in this area! As it’s not too far from Da Nang and Hue, many people will hop on a motorbike and drive that bit as it’s apparently one of the best drives in Vietnam.

I went to Da Nang for a day. This city is known for its beaches, but it is still very touristy.

If you had to do one thing while you’re there; you should walk around the markets and eat a Banh Mi.

How to get to Hoi An

From Da Lat, we took an overnight bus to Hoi An (there’s a bus change in Nha Trang) for VND 220 000.  This fare was a special one as we took the same bus company (T.M. Camel) in the previous trip and they gave us a discount.

Where to stay in Hoi An

I had the privilege to stay at Pho Hoi Riverside Resort while I was in Hoi An, which can be not too hard on your budget. It’s a great spot to enjoy a little break from hostel life for a few days.

It was pretty hot when we were there, so I could happily swim in that massive pool.

Find a room now!

If you have more time, you could also spend a few days in Da Nang and Hue.

Ninh Binh (and Tam Coc) is super pretty! It’s another version of Halong Bay. We drove across the area and we managed to find some peaceful spots.

If you can handle the heat, you can also hop on a bicycle and do it the healthy way!  Once there, you’ll be able to visit many caves, temples and you could also enjoy a boat cruise.

The place is truly gorgeous, so you won’t even have to go to the tourist traps.  You can simply (and happily) enjoy the views! (That’s what I did!)

If you had to do one thing while you’re there; you should hop on a motorbike and drive across the rice fields. Enjoy the views!

Vietnam backpacking itinerary

How to get to Ninh Binh

From Hoi An, this was a very long journey (around 18 hours). In fact, this was probably the longest we had in Vietnam. We managed to find a bus ticket for VND 270,000, which was also pretty expensive.

This bus is also going all the way to Ha Noi and even though, you are stopping before, you’ll have to pay the same rate as if you were going there.

But, we were in Vietnam right?So, sometimes it’s not that easy!A few misadventures later, we found out, the guy booked for the wrong day. We got a refund and we managed to get a bus from Da Nang bus station (which was also more expensive).

Where to stay in Ninh Binh

You might want to consider staying in Tam Coc as it’s the prettiest spot around!  Also, it’s a bit busier over there.

Pro tip: I’d recommend you check out the location before booking your hostel as there are many places that are quite far or isolated. You’ll have no choice to rent a motorbike directly at the hostel which could also be more expensive.

Halong Bay is one of the major stops for travelers. You just need to google it to find out how beautiful this place is. Major stop also rhymes with tourist traps, scams and #notonabudgetanymore.

You can easily spend a lot of money on a cruise or on crappy overnight boats.  Of course, budgeting is all up to you!

When I was there, I met with another blogger. She has been living in Halong for quite a long time now. She showed me Halong Bay City in a completely different perspective, which was also way cheaper than the normal touristy spots!

We met at Vincom Plaza where we could easily walk to the local harbor.

From there, we enjoyed a different view; not the typical one I guess. Did you know that a lot of locals actually live there on their own boats?

Apparently ruining the tourism industry, some locals will take tourists on their boats anyway. At your own risk though, as police can be around! Personally, I think it’s a great way to support local communities.

We went on a very slow boat while a pretty old lady was paddling around.

She had to make sure the boat doesn’t fill up with too much water. Yep – it was a bit dodgy, but still – I appreciated the experience.

Then, we went for a hot pot meal and we ended up ice skating at the plaza.  I had no idea I could enjoy Halong Bay this way – and I’m glad I did!

If you had to do one thing while you’re there; you should go to Halong City to experience a short cruise with a local. You’ll see a completely different scene!

Backpack to Vietnam

How to get to Halong Bay

From Ninh Binh, you could take a local bus directly at the bus station for VND 130,000 or you could find a tourist bus for VND 150,000.

Pro tip: follow the map when you’re getting close to the destination.  Our tourist bus brought us so far that we were not even close to the city centre. That was a bit scammy as we had no other option than taking a taxi.

Where to stay in Halong Bay

I had the privilege to stay at the Starlight Hotel, which is an affordable hotel in Bai Chay (Halong Bay).  It’s always nice to have a little break from of the hostel life!  You can basically find a cheap private room while being in a great location too!

If you’d rather book a hostel or enjoy Cat Ba Island, you can also do it!

Hanoi is a very busy city that is also very different from Ho Chi Minh. It’s street food porn all over the place! I’d recommend you sit somewhere and you watch the crowd, especially the locals!

It’s pretty awesome to observe the craziness.  (Or at least, what, westerners, are calling craziness!)  Take a walk around the Old Quarter, enjoy the market and head to the famous train street.

If you had to do one thing while you’re there; you should sit somewhere and enjoy the cultural experience. (You can also eat as there is a lot of crazy stuff to try!) You should also have a look at the train street.

How to get to Hanoi

From Halong Bay City, you can take the local bus to Hanoi from the street. 

From Bai Chay, you can take the local bus from the main bus station (cheapest option) but you’ll arrive in Hanoi bus station which is far from the city centre. I managed to find a tourist bus for VND 130,000.

How to get to Hanoi International Airport

The cheapest option is the local bus and it cost VND 9000. The bus 86 and 17 are going all the way to the airport. Don’t take this bus if you are in a rush as it will stop often and it can easily take an hour or so to reach the airport.

The fastest option is the airline shuttle bus which cost roughly VND 40,000. You can take the bus from the Old Quarter.

The emergency option for early or late flights is the taxi.  Depending on your negotiation skills you can pay between VND 250,000 and 350,000. To get these prices, you’ll have to book your taxi in advance in a travel agency or directly at your hostel.

For the broke backpacker, you can sleep in both terminals if you need to. I heard terminal 2 was more sleeping friendly. Although, you can still manage to sleep in terminal 1. All restaurants and coffee shops will close at 11PM.

Where to stay in Hanoi

I had the privilege of enjoying a very comfy and cozy pod to myself at Nexy Hostel . The place is quite new and super pretty!  Staff were very helpful and always smiling which makes you appreciate your stay even more!

In the middle of the Old Quarter, not too far from the bus station and the night market, this hostel has the perfect location!

Book a dorm now!

If you have more time, you could also add Sapa to your itinerary.  It’s a must-see in Vietnam!  I personally decided to skip it as I was running out of time and I had to choose between Halong Bay and Sapa.

Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)

I first arrived in Ho Chi Minh and I was facing another cultural shock which was surprising considering I had already been in Asia for a while.

The place was simply too crowded for me.  I thought that this wasn’t my type of place at all. And then, magic happened!I spent another few days in Ho Chi Minh at the end of my trip as I was flying out of the country from there.

The cultural shock wasn’t around me anymore. The thing is that my hostel had a completely different location which allowed me to meet a lot of friendly locals. I had the impression that I could actually appreciate the real Ho Chi Minh around there.

So, I went for a walk for a couple of hours focussing on the little streets. I met lovely people on the way who were posing for me and even taking selfies with me.

I left Vietnam on a very good note and this second experience made me appreciate it even more! Ho Chi Minh is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads.

Learn how you can move to Vietnam here . If you enjoy local experiences, you should take a look at these local Vietnam tours .

If you had to do one thing while you’re there; you should walk around District 10 and get lost in the little streets. Smile to the locals, talk to everyone, drink a tea… Enjoy it.

How to get to Ho Chi Minh

From Hanoi, you can take the train or catch a flight! The flight is obviously way shorter!  But, I reckon there’s more chance you’ll be coming from another city, so enjoy!

How to get to Ho Chi Minh International Airport

If you download the app Grab, you can find a motorbike driver or a cab to get to the airport for a decent price.  From District 10, it only cost me VND 38,000 to reach the airport!

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh

I had the privilege to stay in Da Blend is also a shared house where you can easily meet expats and a lot of English teachers! The owners are super welcoming and you really feel the family vibe!

The place is huge with a strong Internet connection and you’ll have plenty of nice spots to chill out!

The hostel isn’t located in the backpacker area, but I would strongly recommend it anyway!  The reason is simple; you get to see the real Ho Chi Minh while spending less money.  Plus; you’re still going to be next to pagodas and markets!

MY TOP RECOMMENDATIONS

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A Month in Vietnam: North to South Itinerary

This is the ultimate 1 month Vietnam itinerary!

If you’re visiting Vietnam for the first time and want to see the highlights of the country, then this guide is for you. From the breathtaking mountain views in the Ha Giang Region to the idyllic beaches of the southern islands, this four-week itinerary will show you the very best of Vietnam. 

This one month Vietnam itinerary contains all of the information you need to know to prepare you for your trip. Not only will you find the best places to visit, but also your transportation, accommodation, activities, and many of our travel tips collected from three years of living and traveling around Vietnam.

We are an informative and unfiltered blog focused on providing helpful tips, inspiring stories and travel itineraries. Join us in this Colourful Journey of discovering the world.

Travel Route For 

• Ha Giang & Sapa
• Ho Chi Minh City
• Southern Islands

Don’t have time to read now? No worries! Save this post to your Pinterest board for later. And follow Colorful Journeys board for the latest post!

Before you Travel to Vietnam

There are many things to take into consideration before traveling to Vietnam. Make sure to read our top 17 travel tips for Vietnam to get you ready for your trip. This includes visa requirements, the best time to visit and other important things to be aware of before visiting.

‍ Read: 17 Useful Tips Before Visiting Vietnam

1 Month Itinerary for Vietnam

This Vietnam 4 week itinerary includes our recommended nights at each destination as well as our suggested time to travel from point A to point B. This is done so that you can make the most of your time. We’ve also included the best time to visit and how to get around. This route takes you from the north to the south of Vietnam. However, you may always do it the other way around to better fit your needs and travel style.

Day 1 & 2: Hanoi

Recommended Duration of Stay : 2 Nights

Best Time to Visit : October to February

How to Get Around : Foot, Motorbike

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and is well-known for its historic district, tree-lined boulevards, and relaxed atmosphere. This ancient city is also a great starting point if you plan to visit the beautiful regions in the north of Vietnam.

How to Get to Hanoi Center from the Airport 

Bus : Bus 86, which runs every 15 to 30 minutes, is the cheapest way to get to Hanoi Old Quarter. A ticket costs around 2 USD and you can find the updated bus schedule on their Facebook page . 

Car : Booking a taxi or Grab car from Noi Bai airport is the most convenient option to reach Hanoi Center. Expect to pay around 13 USD for a 35 to 45-minute drive, depending on traffic and time of day. 

Tip: Book this Hanoi airport private transfer instead if you want a stress-free arrival at a reasonable price.

Once you arrive in Hanoi, take your time and spend the rest of the day walking around the Old Quarter. If you arrive in time for the sunset, head to Hoan Kiem Lake located at the heart of the old town. You can walk around the lake and also visit the famous Ngoc Son Temple before it closes at 6pm.

Stay in the old quarter to be close to restaurants, bars, and major attractions. Find all Hanoi accommodations here .

For your second day in Hanoi, we recommend discovering beyond the old quarter. The best way is to rent a motorbike and explore the countryside. About an hour's drive from Hanoi, you'll find Quang Phu Cau , home to a thriving incense industry. Here, you’ll find local families making and drying incense. 

Read: How to Spend 48 Hours in Hanoi

The Bat Trang ceramic village is also worth a visit. Many shops sell a wide range of pottery, including large vases, animal designs, dining wares, and handmade vases with unique designs. This is the place to go if you like pottery. Either way, it's fun to browse the small local shops and a great pit stop on your way back to Hanoi center. 

Visit the night market at night and try some of Hanoi's famous street food, such as Banh Tom and Xoi. You can also go to the famous beer corner and enjoy a beer the way the locals do - on a small plastic chair!

Day 3: Hanoi to Sapa

On day 3, you'll have the entire day to explore more of the old quarter before taking a night bus to Sapa. You can visit Hanoi's most popular attractions on your own in the morning, or you can hire a local guide to take you on a guided tour. 

There are numerous museums and temples to visit in Hanoi, including the Thanh Long Imperial Citadel, the Temple of Literature and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. 

How to Get to Sapa from Hanoi

Bus : Taking the bus is the most convenient option to get to Sapa. Many buses run throughout the day, but we recommend taking a sleeper night bus so you can avoid rush hour traffic and save on a night's lodging. Typically, sleeper buses leave around 10pm and arrive at 5:30am. The tickets costs about 15 USD.

Book your bus to Sapa

Tip: For tall travelers, book a VIP sleeper bus as it has a bigger compartment. The additional cost is well worth it!

Day 4 & 5: Sapa 

Recommended Duration of Stay : 3 Nights

Best Time to Visi t: March to May; September to November

How to Get Around : Foot, Motorbike, Bicycle

If you are looking to witness Vietnam’s majestic mountains and rolling rice terraces, then don’t miss out on Sapa. Though it can be a bit touristy, especially if you stay around the main town, there’s so much more to Sapa to discover.

Tip: Avoid visiting on the weekends and around the holidays. If possible, stay in smaller villages surrounding Sapa town. 

Sapa serves as a hiking destination for many travelers visiting Vietnam. One of the best things you can do is to hike with a local and have a more authentic insight into the lives of the ethnic minorities as you visit the small villages. Most of the trekking excursions are two days long so you can spend day 4 and 5 of your trip trekking in Sapa. 

Note: There are numerous packages available in and around Hanoi and Sapa town that offer generic tours with the promise of an authentic experience. However, you should be aware that only a few of these tours actually provide one. The rest simply take you where everyone else goes, with busloads of tourists at every viewpoint.

One of the trekking companies we found that promotes ethical travel and helps the local Hmong women is Sapa Sisters . You can learn more about their authentic Sapa tours on their website.

Day 6: Sapa to Ha Giang

You’ll have the opportunity to spend more of your time exploring Sapa on this day before heading to Ha Giang . You can walk around and explore the local markets in Sapa town or discover the smaller villages in the area. Otherwise, you can relax, order a cup of coffee, and enjoy the magnificent views of Sapa. 

How to Get to Ha Giang from Sapa

Bus: Head next to Ha Giang for the motorbike loop . You can either do the loop on your own or as part of a tour. If you book a tour, the company will arrange your transportation from Sapa. Otherwise, your best option is to take a bus from Sapa center and then rent a motorbike on your own in Ha Giang City. We suggest taking the sleeper bus to avoid traffic and to save money on lodging. The trip takes about 8 hours and costs around 15 USD. 

Book your bus to Ha Giang

Spend the night in Ha Giang city, which is the perfect place to start your Ha Giang motorbike loop the following day. Find all Ha Giang City accommodations here .

Day 7 to 9: Ha Giang 

Recommended Duration of Stay : 4 Nights

Best Time to Visit : March to May; September to November

How to Get Around : Motorbike 

The Ha Giang region is ideal for a motorbike adventure and its popularity has grown in recent years. So if you’re expecting a complete “off the beaten path” experience, you might get disappointed. It does not, however, diminish the dramatic limestone peaks and remote villages encountered on the motorbike loop .

Tip: We recommend avoiding weekends and holidays as much as possible to avoid the majority of the crowd doing the loop. 

We would also strongly advise you not to drive on your own if you lack experience and do not have the necessary license. We've seen a lot of tourists get into accidents while doing the loop in recent years. The roads are definitely not for beginners. 

Read: Vietnam on Motorbike: Discover the Ha Giang Region

We completed the Ha Giang loop in three days , but if you have the time, we recommend doing it in four days. This allows you to see more of the northern part of the region. You'll get closer to the Chinese border, where the landscape becomes more rugged and grand. You can also take your time and explore some of the smaller villages you pass through. You can stop as many times as you want without having to drive longer distances.

There are many tour companies doing the motorbike trip but we highly recommend going with Ha Giang Hideaways . They organize everything from transportation to food and lodging. Not only that, the local guides and drivers have been doing the loop for many years so you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. 

Are you ready to have the adventure of a lifetime exploring the rugged mountains of Ha Giang?

Book your tour with Ha Giang Hideaways now!

Day 10: Ha Giang to Halong Bay

After your motorbike loop, take a relaxing boat cruise through Halong Bay , one of Vietnam's most popular tourist destinations. Instead of taking a day trip from Hanoi, we recommend booking an overnight boat tour. This way, you'll have more time to enjoy Halong Bay without feeling rushed, and you'll avoid the majority of the day trippers. 

How to Get to Halong Bay from Ha Giang

Bus: You can take an 8-hour night bus from Ha Giang to Ha Long for around 13 USD and organize your boat tour there. If you pre-booked a tour, your tour company may arrange transportation for you for an additional fee. Because most tour companies pick up their guests in the Hanoi Old Quarter, you may need to take a bus back to Hanoi first. 

Book your bus to Halong Bay.

Day 11: Halong Bay

Recommended Duration of Stay : 1 Night

Best Time to Visit : October to December

How to Get Around : Boat Tour

Halong Bay , with its over 3,000 towering limestone cliffs and emerald green water, is a must-see for anyone visiting Vietnam. There's a reason it's so famous, and we believe that it’s worth a visit.

Most overnight Halong Bay tours include all meals and activities, such as kayaking and exploring caves and hidden beaches. There are many companies to choose from and prices vary but an average two-day Halong Bay tour starts at 150 USD per person. 

Read: What to Expect on your Halong Bay Tour!

Day 12: Halong Bay to Ninh Binh

Wake up to Halong Bay's dramatic karst scenery and spend the rest of the morning on board. Your boat tour will conclude around noon, and you will return to the port after lunch. Following your relaxing boat ride, travel to Ninh Binh to explore the mossy pagodas and vast rice fields. 

Read: Plan your Trip to Ninh Binh: 2 Day Itinerary

How to Get to Ninh Binh From Halong Bay

Bus: Taking a local bus from Halong City is the cheapest way to get to Ninh Binh. The journey takes about 4 hours and buses leave every 30 minutes. The price of a bus ticket should be around 9 USD.

You can also pre-book a VIP bus online for an additional fee. We recommend taking the afternoon bus and arriving in Ninh Binh before dusk.

Book your Bus to Ninh Binh

Spend the night around the Tam Coc area. Accommodations here offer a unique experience and breathtaking views of karst mountains. Find all Ninh Binh accommodations here .

Day 13: Ninh Binh 

Best Time to Visit : Late May to Beginning of June

How to Get Around : Motorbike, Bicycle

Due to the limestone formations surrounded by rice fields, Ninh Binh is often called the land version of Halong Bay.

Discovering Trang An or Tam Coc is one of the top things to do while in Ninh Binh. For your first full day, head out early in the morning to either Trang An or Tam Coc, which are landscape complexes that best showcase the region’s beauty. 

‍ Read: Ultimate Guide to Tam Coc Boat Tour in Ninh Binh

In a small boat, you'll row through rough caves and see the limestone mountains of Ninh Binh. It can get quite hot during the day, so remember to bring plenty of water and dress comfortably.

‍ Read: Trang An Boat Tour: A Guide to Ninh Binh's Best Attraction

Keep In Mind: Day trips from Hanoi to Ninh Binh are popular, but we don’t recommend these. Your visit will be extremely rushed and you discover the area in a “train” with other tourists. 

In the afternoon, you can ride a scooter or a bicycle around the area. Hang Mua Cave is one of the places you can visit. Climb the steps to see the breathtaking scenery of endless rice fields and limestone mountains.

‍ Read: Hang Mua Viewpoint: A Must Visit Destination in Vietnam

Day 14: Ninh Binh to Phong Nha

You can spend your second day in Ninh Binh taking another boat tour of Trang An or Tam Coc , whichever you did not do the day before. Otherwise, you can spend the rest of your day relaxing and enjoying the scenery or exploring around on a bike. Some places you can visit are Bai Dinh pagoda, Hoa Lu ancient village and Bich Dong pagoda. 

In the evening, take a sleeper bus heading to Phong Nha: Vietnam’s Adventure capital . 

How to Get to Phong Nha From Ninh Binh

Bus: The fastest way to reach Phong Nha from Ninh Binh is to take a bus. The drive takes around 7 hours and tickets start at 13 USD. 

The bus also drops you at the main street of Phong Nha where most of the accommodations are. If you take the night bus around 10pm, you’ll arrive in Phong Nha at around 4 in the morning. 

Book your Bus to Phong Nha 

Stay on the main street of Phong Nha town. This is a great area where most of the restaurants and bars are located. It is also close to the most popular caves in the area. Find all Phong Nha accommodations here .

Tip: Have a room booked the night before your arrival. Having a guaranteed room upon arrival will give you a few hours of proper sleep so you can take advantage of a full day exploring. 

Day 15 & 16: Phong Nha

Best Time to Visit : January to August

How to Get Around : Foot, Bicycle, Motorbike

If you like caves, Phong Nha National Park is a must-see destination because it has some of the most spectacular cave systems in Vietnam. Not only that, but it is also home to the Son Doong Cave, the world's largest cave. 

You'll arrive in Phong Nha early in the morning, allowing you to make the most of your first day. We suggest taking it easy and just relaxing and enjoy the slow paced environment in town. You can rent a bicycle and explore the area while visiting some of the smaller caves that are open daily from 7:30am to 4:00pm, such as Phong Nha cave and Tien Son cave .

Read: Complete Travel Guide to Phong Nha

For your second day in Phong Nha, we recommend you join a tour and explore the bigger cave systems. One of the caves we visited was the Tu Lan cave system . We did a two day tour with Oxalis and we highly recommend it as our experience was spectacular. You can read more about our Detailed Cave Experience here to help you decide. 

Otherwise, you can also enjoy other activities in Phong Nha, including cycling around the Bong Lai valley and visiting the surrounding green paddies. 

Read our post about the Tu Lan Cave Encounter with Oxalis to find out more!

Day 17: Phong Nha to Hue

Transfer to Hue on this day. If you join a cave tour, you will be dropped off earlier in the afternoon at Phong Nha's main town. There we recommend hopping on a bus and heading to Hue before dusk. 

Spend the night in the center of Hue, where most of the restaurants and bars are located. It is also conveniently located just across the Cau Truong Tien bridge, and you can walk to the Citadel easily. Find all Hue accommodations here .

How to Get to Hue From Phong Nha

Bus: The best and most convenient way to reach Hue from Phong Nha is to take a bus. Bus tickets start at 10 USD. Depending on traffic, it may take you around a 3 hours drive. 

Book your bus to Hue

Day 18: Hue

Best Time to Visit :  January to April

Most visitors use Hue as a start point for the famous Hai Van Pass. This charming little city, on the other hand, has a lot to offer and we recommend spending at least one full day. 

Hue is a historical city and one of Vietnam's oldest cities. One of the best things you can do is to explore Hue's historic citadels and magnificent royal palaces. 

If you have more time, explore the photogenic streets of Hue and sample the meals that unfold over several courses at Madam Thu restaurant . They serve delicious and affordable Hue specialty food. As most dishes are divided into smaller servings that are perfect for sharing, head to the restaurant with an empty stomach and try as many dishes as you can!

Day 19: Hue to Hoi An

There are several ways to get from Hue to Hoi An . Use this day to transfer, and depending on your mode of transportation, you can spend more time walking around Hue and exploring the city before continuing on to Hoi An. 

Once in Hoi An, spend the evening walking around and exploring the lantern-lit streets of the old quarter. Cross the Thu Bon bridge to the night market and admire the rows of lantern stalls that light up the street.

Book your accommodation within walking distance of the old quarter. You can also stay close to the night market or around the Cam An area to be closer to the beach. Find all Hoi An accommodations here .

How to Get to Hoi An From Hue

Motorbike : The best and most scenic way to get to Hoi An is by motorbike. If you're an experienced driver, rent a motorcycle and enjoy the breathtaking views of the famous Hai Van Pass. The drive takes about 3 hours, depending on often you stop. 

The cost of renting a motorcycle can range from 20 to 85 USD, depending on the type of bike. Furthermore, many businesses offer free luggage services. Which means, they will deliver your luggage to your next accommodation so you don't have to strap it to your bike.

If you are unsure about riding a bike on your own, some tour companies offer drivers and guides. It costs more, but it is well worth it for your safety and peace of mind. 

Bus: There are also numerous bus companies that provide transfers from Hue to Hoi An. If you take the bus, we recommend leaving in the afternoon to give yourself more time in Hue.

‍ Book your bus to Hoi An

Day 20 & 21: Hoi An

Best Time to Visit : April to August; December to March

Hoi An is one of those places that you must see if you visit Vietnam. Stepping into the colonial streets of this Unesco World Heritage site is like stepping back in time. From lantern lit nights to romantic boat rides on the Thu Bon River, Hoi An makes you want to stay longer. So we recommend spending at least two full days exploring the old town and nearby attractions.

Spend your first full day exploring the ancient town of Hoi An. You can discover the small alleys by foot or by renting a bicycle. The Precious Heritage Art Gallery is one place we recommend visiting. It is a magnificent work of art that preserves and showcases Vietnam's magnificent customs and traditions.

Read our Hoi An Ultimate Guide to find out other things you can do in Hoi An. 

On your second day, leave the old quarter and explore the nearby attractions surrounding Hoi An. You can choose to visit the My Son Sanctuary, which is about 40 kilometers from the old town. It's simple to rent a motorcycle and go exploring on your own or you can also join a guided tour from Hoi An.

Day 22: Hoi An to Dalat 

Use this day to travel from Hoi An to Dalat . You can spend the morning relaxing or exploring the old town one last time before transferring to Da Nang to catch your flight.

When you arrive in Dalat, go to the night market and enjoy the colorful stalls selling local snacks. You can also buy some souvenirs and other Dalat specialties here.

Stay in Dalat center so you can walk to the majority of the restaurants and bars. If you rent a motorbike, stay near Le Van Tam Street for great mountain views and a relaxed atmosphere. Find all Dalat accommodations here .

How to Get to Dalat from Hoi An

Plane: The quickest and easiest way to get to Dalat is to fly. Drive to Da Nang airport from Hoi An and then fly to Dalat. The flight takes around 1 and 15 minutes. We recommend purchasing your tickets in advance because there is usually only one flight per day.

Book your plane to Dalat 

Day 23: Dalat 

Recommended Duration of Stay: 2 Nights

Best Time to Visit: December to March

How to Get Around: Motorbike

Dalat is a picturesque town well-known for its laid-back atmosphere, delicious food , and excellent coffee options . You can enjoy a cooler climate in Dalat, so make sure you bring the proper clothes.

For your first full day in Dalat, begin with a cup of coffee as you enjoy the mountain views. You can read our list of Top 6 Best Coffee Shops in Dalat here. Or you can rent a motorbike and explore the scenic town as you drive around the Tuyen Lam lake and enjoy the fresh mountain air. 

If you're looking for more adventure, Dalat is also well known for its canyoning tours. Book a tour to see Dalat's spectacular canyons and gorges. 

Beside canyons there are some waterfalls you can visit near Dalat. You can go to larger waterfalls, such as Pongour waterfall , but they are further from town and require an entire morning to visit. The Datanla waterfall is the closest waterfall to Dalat's main center. Many activities are available, including Asia's longest alpine coaster. You can visit the waterfalls on your own or you can join a tour. 

Book your waterfall tour in Dalat

Day 24: Dalat to Ho Chi Minh City

Today, you should head out early in the morning to visit one of our favorite places near Dalat. The Cau Dat tea plantation . Here you’ll find many viewpoints and if you're lucky, you might even see locals harvesting tea leaves during the day. The Cau Dat tea fields are approximately 22 kilometers from Dalat's center and it typically takes 35 minutes to drive to.

Tea is still harvested by hand at the Cau Dat plantation. Read our story to find out more about this ancient practice.

You can also stop by Linh Phuoc pagoda on your way back to the center. This stunning pagoda is a work of art in and of itself, with intricate designs throughout. It is made up of thousands of pieces of colorful glass, pottery bowls, and porcelain. 

You can spend the afternoon relaxing or driving around Dalat before taking the night bus to Ho Chi Minh City.

Read: The Ultimate Dalat Travel Guide

How to Get to Ho Chi Minh from Dalat

Bus: From Dalat, take the bus directly to Ho Chi Minh City, which takes about 7 hours depending on the traffic. You can expect to pay around 15 USD for a ticket. 

Book your bus to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 25 & 26: Ho Chi Minh City

How to Get Around: Foot, Motorbike, Taxi

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is Vietnam's largest city. Amidst the energy and chaos you'll encounter, there are plenty of things to see and do in this Asian metropolis.

You will arrive early in the morning and on your first day, it’s a good idea to take it easy. You can start by having breakfast at Banh Mi Hoa Ma . You may want to relax after breakfast or you can start exploring the city before it gets really hot at midday. 

Book a hotel in district 1 (the center) so you can walk to most of the main attractions and a variety of restaurants and bars. Districts 3 and 4 are also great areas to stay. Find all Saigon accommodations here .

You can spend your afternoon visiting Saigon’s main attractions, such as the Notre Dame cathedral and the War Remnants Museum. If you’re looking for a great place to watch the sunset, head to Bitexco Financial tower for a 360-degree view of the city. 

‍ Book your Bitexco Financial Tower ticket

This vibrant city also offers some of the most exciting and affordable street food.

At night, we recommend walking around the famous flower market and trying as much street food as you can handle. You can also book a guided food tour that will take you around the city on a motorbike and introduce you to some of Saigon's hidden gems.

On your second day in Saigon, get out of the main tourist area and explore more of the city. Begin your day in Chinatown , where you can get lost in the vibrant market, pagodas, traditional shops, and local food stalls. 

You can also use this day to take a tour if you want to visit the Cu Chi tunnels . It is located around 55 kms away from the center and takes about 2 hours to drive. We suggest taking the morning tour so you avoid the midday heat.

In the afternoon, you can explore more of the city and stop by the Nguyen Hue walking street, which is home to the famous apartment cafe.

If you want to enjoy the night with some drinks, you can also go to Bui Vien walking street. This street is well-known for its nightlife, having bars playing music on both sides. If you want a more laid-back night out, we recommend Warda , a small Lebanese lounge that serves delicious drinks and shisha.

Day 27: Ho Chi Minh to Can Tho

Use this day to travel from Saigon to Can Tho. Head out early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic and so you can spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the city. 

Can Tho is Vietnam's fourth largest city, and renting a motorbike is the best way to move around. So, after you arrive, rent one from your hotel and go exploring. At night, visit the night market and try some local dishes. You can also walk along the riverside near the market to the lotus bridge to end the night. 

Find a hotel in the center, near the riverside and the night market, so you can have plenty of food options nearby. Otherwise, book an accommodation outside the city to enjoy a more relaxing stay. Find all accommodations in Can Tho here .

How to Get to Can Tho from Ho Chi Minh 

Bus: The easiest way to get to Can Tho from Saigon is by bus. The trip takes about 4 hours and costs roughly 9 USD.

‍ Book your bus to Can Tho

Day 28: Can Tho to the Islands

Recommended Duration of Stay: 1 Night

Best Time to Visit: October to February

How to Get Around: Motorbike, Boat

There are few day tours you can take from Ho Chi Minh city to the famous Cai Rang floating market. However, we don't recommend taking a day tour as you'll have to leave around 2am. Instead, consider staying at least one night in Can Tho city. This is so you can visit the floating market before sunrise. 

The Cai Rang floating market is the most popular in Can Tho, however it is no longer as authentic as it once was. It has evolved into a wholesale market, with larger boats trading items rather than locals on smaller boats.

We also recommend visiting Phong Dien floating market. This market is not as touristy and you will still few traders on small boats. It is roughly a half hour drive from the Can Tho center, and the market is at its busiest in the earlier hours.

In the afternoon, take a flight to the southern islands of Vietnam to enjoy the beach. Can Tho has an airport so you can save time by flying directly without returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 29 to 31: Phu Quoc or Con Dao

End your trip by visiting some of Vietnam's most beautiful islands, complete with the best sunsets and beaches. We recommend either going to Phu Quoc or Con Dao , which are located in the south of Vietnam. 

If you have the time, you can also explore both because they are worth seeing. It is important to note, however, that there is no direct flight between these islands. If you want to visit both, you'll have to return to Ho Chi Minh City to catch another flight. 

We've detailed both islands below to help you decide which one is best for you. 

Phu Quoc Island

Recommended Duration of Stay: 3 Nights

Best Time to Visit: November to April

Though we haven’t personally visited Phu Quoc, we know for a fact that it is an excellent tropical getaway based on the numerous blogs we’ve read and from local friends who have visited. 

Everyone raved about how amazing this island is and why it should be on your itinerary. It is more developed than Con Dao, with more lodging and restaurants. If you want a relaxing vacation with everything at your fingertips but don't mind crowds, Phu Quoc might be the place for you.

This idyllic island paradise has a pristine coastline and a tranquil atmosphere that is ideal for travelers looking to unwind. You can watch the sunset on Ganh Dau beach, or you can also choose to relax in the powdery sand and calm waves of Sao Beach, also known as Star Beach. 

Book your plane to Phu Quoc

Stay around the Duong Dong area if you want to be close to most restaurants and lively. The Ong Lang area is great for a quiet holiday but has limited dining options. Find all Phu Quoc accommodations here .

Con Dao Island 

Best Time to Visit: February to September

Con Dao is without a doubt one of the best islands we've visited in Asia, and we can't recommend it highly enough. Con Dao is characterized by pristine long stretches of beaches and dense jungles. The island is less well-known to tourists and less developed than Phu Quoc Island. Because of that, you will more likely enjoy a secluded beach to yourself.

Book your plane to Con Dao

Stay in the main town on the east side to be close to the restaurants and markets. For a beach view, book your accommodation along Ton Duc Thang Street or close to An Hai Beach. Find all Con Dao accommodations here .

You can visit the Con Dao prison and discover one of Vietnam's largest and most brutal prison camps to learn more about the island's tragic history. Then, enjoy the day at Dam Trau beach , one of Con Dao's most secluded beaches. Take in the peaceful, beautiful, and untouched nature of Con Dao Island.

Read: Ultimate Guide to Con Dao Island

And there you have it!

The ultimate one-month Vietnam travel itinerary. You can always modify this itinerary to better meet your needs. You can also start in Ho Chi Minh and work your way up to Hanoi. If you don't want to go to certain places or have already visited them, you can adjust it accordingly and devote more time to other places.

We hope that this guide will help you in planning your trip in Vietnam.

Now, to better prepare for your upcoming trip, read our list of the top 17 things you should know before visiting Vietnam.

Tell us in the comments which places in Vietnam you are most looking forward to visiting!

Some links in this Vietnam Itinerary may be affiliate links.

This means that if you make a purchase after clicking on one of our links, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please know that by doing so, you are supporting Colorful Journeys in continuing to provide free high quality content to help you in your travels!

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The ultimate one month itinerary for Vietnam

Hoping to get started on that backpacking adventure of yours, then I highly recommend Vietnam. Lush green landscapes, beautiful beaches, the friendliest people in South East Asia plus yummy and healthy food. So, what are you waiting for? Here’s our ultimate one month itinerary for Vietnam.

Our one month Vietnam itinerary

We started this leg of our trip in Cambodia and came into Vietnam via a city called Rach Gia. In Rach Gia we were the only guests in a 500 room hotel, but we had a massive circular bed, so we forgot about the creepiness of the scenario pretty quickly. The first stop on our month itinerary for Vietnam was Ho Chi Minh city (or Saigon as it’s more commonly known). Over the course of one month we worked our way through seven destinations ending the trip in Hanoi.

“I beg young people to travel. If you don’t have a passport, get one. Take a summer, get a backpack and go to Delhi, go to Saigon, go to Bangkok, go to Kenya. Have your mind blown, eat interesting food, dig some interesting people, have an adventure, be careful. Come back and you’re going to see your country differently .” – Henry Rollins

As I said, for anyone thinking of joining the world of backpacking – you HAVE to check out Vietnam, I think it’s a fantastic country to find your travelling groove in because:

• Vietnam is very affordable
• Vietnamese people are really friendly and it’s a relatively safe country
• Vietnam looks, smells and sounds foreign enough to feel like a challenge for us westernized folks.

Here’s how we planned our one month Vietnam itinerary and packed in seven stops.

Continue reading: the most photogenic spots in Hong Kong

1. Ho Chi Minh

We recommend 5 nights in Ho Chi Minh

The biggest city in Vietnam and very different to any city I’ve visited. Firstly, there isn’t much footpath for you to walk on because the market stalls have taken them. So, most of the time you walk on the road – which is an experience in itself. There are motorbikes and mopeds speeding past you in every direction. Continual noise of honking horns and screeching brakes.

If you’ve ever been to Vietnam or any Southeast Asian country you will know exactly what I’m talking about. Crossing the road in Vietnam is asking for a death wish.

But besides the lack of footpaths and dangerous road-crossing experiences, Ho Chi Minh is an exciting and bustling city. Filled with excellent restaurants , quirky coffee shops, great shopping (they even have a Topshop). Luckily too, if you’re solo-backpacking there are lots of other like-minded backpackers for you to hang with.

What to do in Ho Chi Minh

Our stay in Ho Chi Minh included a visit to the Vietnam War Remnants Museum , which gives an in-depth look at the Vietnam War. The War Remnants Museum showcases photographs, documents and artefacts from the Vietnamese War. We recommend spending 2 hours here.

A day trip to the Chu Chi Tunnels , is a must-do whilst in Ho Chi Minh. The Chu Chi Tunnels is 120km long underground city if you will, built as protection for the Vietnamese people during the Vietnam war. The tunnels feature trapdoors, living areas, kitchens, storage facilities, armoury, hospitals, and command centres. During the tour you can crawl through some of the tunnels (not recommended if you’re claustrophobic). I got to shoot a real gun here, which was terrifying. A half-day tour to Chu Chi Tunnels costs from VND 825,000 (or $35 USD)and upwards.

And lastly we popped by  Saigon Central Post Office , which was built by Alfred Foulhoux, who also constructed the Eiffel Tower. The Post Office is an exquisitely preserved french-colonial style building that attracts a lot of photographers. It is known as the most beautiful post office in South East Asia.

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh

Considering it’s the largest city in Vietnam, there are lots of hotels to choose from in Ho Chi Minh. There’s something for every budget, if you wish to splurge on a nice hotel – here’s a list of the best .

We recommend spending 3 nights in Mui Ne

Mui Ne, is best described as a little town in the desert. A big contrast to the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh. Mui Ne is very laid-back and most of the hotels and restaurants line the town’s beach. The beach in Mui Ne is very popular for kite-surfing.

We only had 3 nights here, so we packed as much as we possibly could into such a short time frame. First on the list was a half day-tour to the Fairy Springs just a 10 minute drive from Mui Ne town. The scenery here is outstanding and it does feel pretty magical, hence the name. We recommend arriving to the Fairy Springs early in the morning (before 9am), which is when the tour buses arrive. The entrance fee to the Fairy Springs is super-cheap, just 5,000 VND or 25 cent!

We also took a half-day sunset tour to the  Red and White deserts of Mui Ne , this tour departs daily at 2pm from Mui Ne. The cost is approximately $25 USD per person. Here, you can climb massive sand dunes and slide down them on your bum, or pay a little extra money for a quad bike tour. The half-day tour also includes a stop at a small fishing village.

Where to stay in Mui Ne

Whilst in Mui Ne we stayed Muine Sports Hotel , clean and basic accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool. Plus, its just 100 metres from the beach.

Here’s a list of the best restaurants in Mui Ne because good food makes every trip more enjoyable!

We recommend spending 3 nights in Dalat

High up in Vietnam’s central highlands lies the town of Dalat . Dalat is very different to the rest of Vietnam, to me it felt more like being in the mountains of Nepal. But it’s well worth the bumpy bus journey up, the food and people are uniquely different to other parts of Vietnam. It’s colder up here too, especially at night so make sure to pack a jumper and jeans.              

We booked a full day tour of Dalat through our hotel as we were limited to time. It cost approximately $25 USD per person, the tour included stops at:

• Bao Dai’s Summer Palace – which was the Summer home of King Bao Dai, the last king of Vietnam feudal court. The palace was built from 1933 – 1937, and is art-deco in style.
• Crémaillère Railway Station – a wonderful art-deco train station. Here you can ride a quirky little train to Trai Mat, 30 minutes away. It costs approximately $5 USD.
• Dalat Flower Gardens – the Flower Gardens were established in 1966 and is home to over 300 different species of flowers. The Gardens are particularly popular with domestic tourists.
• Datanla Falls – is one of the most visited waterfalls in Vietnam. But perhaps the best activity at the Falls is the rollercoaster that you control yourself. With a lever, you are able to control your own speed completely.
• Crazy House – a backpacker favourite in Dalat. Unique and Alice in Wonderland like is the best way to describe it. You need to experience this treasure for yourself.

Here’s a comprehensive list of the best accommodation in Dalat

4. Nha Trang

We recommend spending 3 nights in Nha Trang

Nha Trang to my European followers is the Costa del Sol of Vietnam (or Cancun to Americans I guess). Nha Trang to put it simply is a super-touristy beach resort. It is very popular with Russian tourists especially. Nha Trang is a great place to stop and relax before setting off to explore the remainder of your one month Vietnam itinerary.

We really enjoyed our time here. There are lots of Italian and Greek restaurants to get your food fix from home but our favorite restaurant was a local one called Yen’s . At Yen’s, we ate some of the best Vietnamese food we’d ever eaten.

What to do in Nha Trang

My husband just HAD to visit VinPearl Land . VinPearl Land is a massive theme park and water park combined, which is only reachable by ferry or cable car. Honestly, VinPearl Land is such a fun day out. If you have kids or a ‘big kid’ like I do it’s definitely worth the trip and the $$$. The entrance fee including the cable car there is 500,000 VND or $25 USD.

We also booked a full-day snorkelling tour   and even though it was a great day out, the underwater sightings are nowhere near as impressive as the Great Barrier Reef or the Hol Chan Marine Reserve in Belize. Pick-up for the tour is early – 7:30am from most hotels in Nha Trang. The day includes a seafood feast on board the boat for Lunch. The average cost for a tour like this is $25 USD.

We also paid a visit to the Thap Ba Hot Springs , which has become a quintessential Nha Trang experience. You sit in a private mud bath for about 15 minutes and then rinse off in a mineral shower. Your skin is sooo soft after! The ticket price is 150,000 VND or $7 USD.

Where did we stay in Nha Trang

We spent 5 nights in total at Nha Trang Beach Hotel , a 3-star hotel featuring a small outdoor swimming pool. Small-sized but clean rooms and just a 20 metre walk from the beach. Nha Trang Beach Hotel is very reasonably priced at approximately $25 USD per night.

We recommend spending 4 nights in Hoi An

My favourite stop in Vietnam! Hoi An is a UNESCO world heritage site that is both incredibly beautiful and unforgettable.

If you want to get some clothes made, make sure you add Hoi An to your Vietnam itinerary. Some of the best tailors in the world line the streets of this small town. We got lots of beautiful things (including 3 x Suits and some dresses) for a very reasonable price. All were of made that are of top-notch quality. Here’s a comprehensive list of the best tailors in Hoi An

We hired a bike for the day from our hotel and spent a full day cycling the surrounding area. We cycled through rice paddies filled with water buffalo and down, stopped for lunch at a little cookery school and finally down to the mile-long beach.

Most of the historic sites in Hoi An work on a coupon system. This means, 75,000 VND (or $5 USD) gets you a ticket that can be used to enter five attractions: one museum,  one museum, one old house, one assembly hall, the handicraft workshop, and either the Japanese Covered Bridge or the Quan Cong Temple. These tickets are sold at various entry points into the Old Town.

Best restaurants in Hoi An

We spent our days in Hoi An wandering the cobble-stoned streets of the old town and stuffing our faces with amazing Vietnamese vegan food especially as well as awesome non-vegan food. Hoi An is a foodie’s heaven. The ‘ Banh Mi Queen ‘ is here – a little old lady who makes the best Vietnamese rolls in the world for $1 USD. Other restaurants in Hoi An which we give our seal of approval include Home and Little Flower .

Where to stay in Hoi An

We spent 4 nights at Hoi An Garden Villas a 3-star hotel on on Nguyen Duy Hieu road. It features a lovely outdoor pool and clean and cool rooms. It is reasonably priced for Hoi An at $40 USD per night.

We recommend spending 3 nights in Hue

Hue for us was a stopover to break up the long journey between Hoi An and Hanoi. You will find lots of other backpackers in Hue for this reason. As a result there are lots of backpacker-friendly bars. The party is definitely in Hue!

We filled our days in Hue visiting To Mieu Temple Complex (a beautiful walled complex which houses shrines to past Emperors), wandering across the city’s beautiful bridges, and shopping at the street markets.

One thing we didn’t get to do in Hue that I now regret is DMZ or Vinh Moc Tunnels . A larger version of the Chu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh city. It’s supposed to be a great experience but it’s a couple hours travel from Hue and we were coming to the end of our trip and so very exhausted.

We recommend spending 6 nights in Hanoi

Hanoi, you may not have known is the capital city of Vietnam. We both preferred Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh. I loved the rustic feel of the city, a lot of the buildings in Hanoi are very French-colonial in style. And we even began to fall in love with the the craziness of the traffic in Hanoi. I will admit that we had become pro’s at navigating the traffic in Vietnam after a month here.

Hanoi feels more like a big town than a city and I guess that’s why I liked it so much, being a small town girl myself. Plus, our favourite restaurant in the country is in Hanoi – Minh Thuy’s Family Restaurant . The Chef/Owner was a contestant on Masterchef Vietnam. The menu is delicious and super-affordable too. We visited Minh Thuy’s restaurant three evenings of our six night stay.

What sights did we visit in Hanoi?

I’m glad you asked. We spent a whole 6 days in Hanoi and so we tried not to pack too much into our days here.

We spent hours walking around Hoan Kiem Lake. Fun fact: every morning at 6am a big group of locals practice Tai Chi on the shore.

Visited the National Museum of Vietnamese History . The Museum highlights Vietnam’s pre-history up to 1945. It is very large and is home to over 200,000 exhibits. Which is why we recommend spending a half-day here.

Spent half a day at the  Ho Chi Minh Masoleum Complex. Ho Chi Minh (former President of Vietnam) is buried here and it’s considered a pilgrimage site to the local people. They come from all over Vietnam every day to pay their respects, so, as a result expect long queues.

And finally we attended a Water Puppet Show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theater . Such fun! Water puppetry is an art form that dates back to the 11th century. This tradition comes from a time when rice paddy fields were flooded and villagers would make entertainment by standing in the waist-deep water with the puppets performing over the water.

Where to stay in Hanoi

We spent 6 nights at Hanoi Old Quarter Hotel , a beautiful colonnaded hotel in the Old Quarter of the city. The rooms here are very spacious with beautifully tiled floors and some rooms feature exposed brick on the walls. The hotel is a short walk to Hoan Kim Lake.

8. Halong Bay

We spent a whopping 0 nights in Halong Bay! One of the natural wonders of the world, majestic, beautiful, like something from a James Bond movie. We booked a two day one night cruise on a Junk Boat. Unfortunately, we only ended up staying on the boat a couple of hours as there was a massive storm coming. Queue some very disappointed faces. Thankfully, we did get to kayak in the bay, had a champagne lunch and got a quick glimpse at our would-be bedroom onboard.

When it comes to choosing a tour of Halong Bay , you’ll want to do your research. From wild party cruises where young twenty-somethings get deserted on an island ‘Castaway-style’ to high-end luxury cruises, there is something for every type of traveler and every budget.

Read more from me: 6 ways to save money so you can travel

What to pack for your one month Vietnam itinerary

• Lonely Planet guide ‘Southeast Asia on a shoestring’;
• A decent pair of walking shoes (crossing Vietnam’s notorious roads in flip-flops is not recommended);
• A cute shawl (in a lot of museums & temples you have to cover your shoulders so this will come in handy);
• Travel pants , we love the brand Kuhl and always wear their travel pants when travelling. Check out the best women’s travel pants here and the best men’s travel pants here;
• A good book to read or playlist to listen to on those long bus journeys;
• Patience (for crossing the road & for bus journeys that take 5 hours longer than you were told).

Our one month Vietnam itinerary – a summary

And there you have it a lengthy and detailed insight into our one month Vietnam itinerary. We spent a lot of time researching the best route for us, you may choose to spend more or less time in the places I recommend above. But, whatever route you choose for your one month Vietnam itinerary, I am certain you will have a fantastic vacation. Vietnam is a very special country, and we can’t wait to return.

Looking for an adventurous way to explore Vietnam? This 17-day adventure , takes you from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi through Dalat, Hoi An, Hue and Halong Bay. Probably the coolest part though is the 5 days motorbike ride through the countryside from Dalat to Hoi An!

Tell me – what did you think of our one month Vietnam itinerary? I’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions in the comment section below.

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17 thoughts on “ the ultimate one month itinerary for vietnam ”.

Fantastic post love Vietnam so much such an amazing country

This is such a great guide! I did Vietnam almost a year ago (February) and it was amazing. I started in Ho Chi Minh and ended in Hanoi. I also did Da Nang, Hoi An and Cat Ba Island. I definitely want to get back one day. 🙂

Great post! Vietnam has been on my list for so long now. Hopefully within the next year it’s a possibility. Thanks for sharing this great itinerary!

Thanks for all of the great tips on where to stay and visit! I would have no idea where to start if I was planning one month in Vietnam.

It’s great to read your itinerary as I haven’t visited Vietnam yet, although it’s in my bucket list! Thanks for all your recommendations!

Your itinerary sounds great! What a pity you missed Halong Bay…I was in Vietnam a couple of years ago & loved it. There’s so much to see! I can’t wait to go back…

I absolutely loved traveling around Vietnam! I was there for a month too but my itinerary was not as good as yours it seems haha

• Pingback: 6 Best Places to Visit in Asia in 2020 | The Common Traveler

Thanks for such a comprehensive guide! Sorry you didn’t get to see much of Halong Bay – that’s the one place in Vietnam I really do want to get to, though I’ve been told the same thing before re needing to do your research. It would absolutely ruin the experience for us if we wound up on a wild party boat, so I’m thinking we might save and catch a luxury cruise with an older crowd 🙂

Thank you for great itinierary, I am planing to visit Vietnam this fall. How did you decide to book certain boat? I heard about a lot of scams 🙁 Also, do you know maybe how much did you spend per day on average? That would be helpful 🙂

Hi Andreja, so sorry for the delayed reply. We walked around to about 6 different tour shops in Hanoi to find out what their prices were and if they could do us a deal, then we TripAdvisor’d each one and also spoke to the Receptionist at our hotel who was super helpful (Hanoi Old Quarter Hotel – I highly recommend by the way) before finally deciding on the best one for us, we chose a couple-friendly one. Per person per day we probably spent on average $30AUD (as that was the currency we were working on at the time). Hope this helps & feel free to ask any more questions

Sounds like you guys had an EPIC time! I’m headed there in a couple months myself 🙂 thanks for the post, inspiring!

You did the reverse of our route! We started at Hanoi and ended in Ho Chi Minh and loved every second of it! Shame you didn’t get to spend more time in Halong Bay – but I think the rest of your trip made up for it!

I’m going to Vietnam soon and this just made me so much more excited. Any tips on clothing? India was very covered and conservative. Is Vietnam the same?

I personally haven’t been to India, but I didn’t find Vietnam to be too conservative. I mostly wore knee-length summer dresses but always carried a long scarf to cover my shoulders before going into any historic/religous sites. Hope this helps 🙂

Glad you enjoyed Vietnam. Visit Philippines too!

Beautiful I say…

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Suggested Vietnam Itinerary: 10 Days, 2 Weeks, or 1 Month

Vietnam has become one of our favorite travel destinations. This post will help you create the best Vietnam itinerary for your own trip, whether it’s for 10 days, 2 weeks, or 1 month.

We had the good fortune of having friends who were living in Vietnam for several years. They showed us around Hanoi and introduced us to the culture. We loved visiting Vietnam so much, we’ve returned many times, staying longer each time.

In this article, we’ll focus on destinations in Vietnam that we personally know best, although we’ll also briefly cover other popular places to see.

Updated: January 2024. Originally published: 2019.

What travel restrictions and rules are in place in Vietnam? Find post-pandemic travel updates for Vietnam here: What you need to know about Vietnam travel right now

* Access our free Vietnam Destinations guide here * When to Visit Vietnam

We were a little shocked to learn that summer is a high season for visitors to Vietnam since it gets incredibly hot and humid. We personally prefer traveling to Vietnam in winter (October through March) for better temperatures.

Each region of Vietnam varies with the weather.

Hanoi in the North and DaLat in the mountains can actually get quite cold in mid-winter. Fall is probably the best time to visit Hanoi when the temperatures are moderate and rain is minimal. Mid-summer is their rainy season.

Hoi An and the Central Coast has a heavy rain season in October and November which may cause floods. And field burning can seriously affect air quality after harvests in April. January and February are ideal times to visit.

Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta in the South should be best from November through February. The hot, rainy season in the South tends to be April through September.

Finally, if you’re visiting in late January or February, be sure to look up the dates for Vietnam’s Tet Holiday . This is the country’s biggest celebration season, and many businesses stop operating for 3 to 10 days. The holiday makes it much more challenging to travel and find amenities that are open during this time.

Top Destinations in Vietnam

Our suggested itinerary does not include all of the best places to go in Vietnam–there are too many for that. But we wanted to give you an overview. Here is a quick summary, from North to South.

Sapa – Lush green mountain village with French colonial remnants

Hanoi – Vietnam’s capital. Absolutely fascinating, buzzing with motorcycle traffic, and charming Old Town. International airport is a common start or end point.

Ha Long Bay – Where thousands of steep limestone karsts dot the bay, one of Vietnam’s most visited places

Mai Chau – Minority ethnic village in a lush valley of rice fields

Ninh Binh – “Ha Long Bay on land” where impressive karsts rise from the land and rivers

Phong Nha – An up-and-coming National Park destination with enormous caves

Hue – Former national capital with citadel, and bordering the De-Militarized Zone during Vietnam-American War

Da Nang – Coastal city with growing international airport and beaches

Hoi An – Charming Ancient Town was once a major trading port, beach nearby

Nha Trang – Long white sand beaches

Da Lat – A fertile City of Eternal Spring in the mountains

Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. International airport is a common start or end point.

Phu Quoc – Island vacation destination

* Get our free Vietnam Travel Destinations e-guide *

Planning A Trip to Vietnam? We can help…

Schedule a vietnam trip consultation, vietnam itinerary map.

Generally, we suggest staying in each destination for a minimum of two nights, ideally longer . 

If you can be content with “seeing less” and narrowing down the number of stops, we believe you’ll have a much more enjoyable trip.

To be honest, our first recommendation would be spending your whole ten days or two weeks in our favorite Vietnam destination: Hoi An .

With a nice Hoi An homestay as your base, you could do a number of great day trips . This is what we do when hosting our one-week Hoi An Un Tour .

But we also understand that most people do want to see more of Vietnam, especially if it may be your only chance to visit.

Which Vietnam airport should you fly to?

For this guide, we’ve written a North to South Vietnam Itinerary, however, it can be easily reversed to go South to North.

If you’re not able to book an “open jaw” ticket, flying into one city and out of another, you can always book an inter-country flight to get you back to your starting point. Just allow another half day for this additional travel.

To follow our itineraries below, it would be most ideal to fly into Hanoi and fly out of either Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City.

What will a Vietnam trip cost?

When it comes to Vietnam, your biggest expense is usually the flight to get there. Budget travelers can spend under $25/day USD per person, with meals to be had for as low as $2 and lodging under $20.

Of course, traveling around Vietnam means adding more transportation costs . Taking the train from North to South, for example, would be about $40 USD in a seat and around $65 in an air-conditioned sleeper. One-way flights covering the same distance range from $27 USD to $160.

Compare and book Vietnam transit tickets on BookAway here >

You can splurge for a one-hour massage starting at $12 USD. Book luxury hotel rooms for $60. And enjoy three-course meals for $10 to $30 per person.

That’s not to say you won’t find great value spending closer to the local standard, which we encourage.

All in all, 10 days in Vietnam could easily cost under $500 for food and lodging. Add a few hundred more for guided day tours and other special experiences.

The last time we stayed longer-term in Hoi An, our monthly total was under $750 for all our living expenses.

Learn about our Vietnam trip consultations and other services here

Here is a quick overview of our suggested itineraries for Vietnam. Read on for more details about each place.

Vietnam Itinerary: 10 Days, 3+ Cities

Arrive to Hanoi – Day 0 Day 1 – 4: Hanoi Day 4-5: Overnight trip. Choose from:   * Ninh Binh   * Ha Long Bay Day 5: Fly Hanoi to Da Nang Day 5 – 10: Hoi An Day 10: Fly out of Da Nang

Vietnam Itinerary: 2 Weeks, 5 Destinations

Arrive to Hanoi – Day 0 Day 1 – 4: Hanoi Day 4 – 6: Overnight trip. Choose from:   * Mai Chau   * Ninh Binh   * Ha Long Bay Day 7: Fly Hanoi to Da Nang, Train to Hue Day 7 – 8: Hue Day 9: Hue to Hoi An Motorbike Tour Day 9 – 13: Hoi An Day 13: Fly Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh (or back to Hanoi)   * Overnight in HCMC

Vietnam Itinerary: 1 Month North to South Trip

Arrive to Hanoi – Day 0 Day 1 – 4: Hanoi Day 4 – 6: Overnight Trip #1. Choose from:   * Ninh Binh   * Ha Long Bay Day 7 – 9: Overnight Trip #2   * Mai Chau Day 9: Fly Hanoi to Da Nang, Train to Hue Day 9 – 11: Hue Day 11: Hue to Hoi An Motorbike Tour Day 11 – 17: Hoi An Day 17: Fly to Da Lat Day 17 – 21: Da Lat Day 21: Fly or bus to Ho Chi Minh Day 21 – 28: Ho Chi Minh City Day 28: Fly out of HCMC or back to Hanoi

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Vietnam Itinerary Highlights & Where to Stay

Whether you’re spending ten days in Vietnam, two weeks, or more than a month, here’s a bit more about what to see, foods to try, and best places to stay in each destination.

Hanoi: Vietnam’s Capitol in the North

What to do: Hanoi is one of the most fascinating cities we’ve ever been to. With the number of motorcycles and the things they carry, one of the city’s biggest marvels is the traffic.

You will need to relearn how to cross the street . 

Hanoi has much to offer visitors. From delicious street food to historic landmarks, most people concentrate their visit around the Old Town French Quarter area, North of Hoàn Kiếm Lake. From here, you can make a base to see the city as well as day trips to surrounding areas.

Learn more about the city’s points of interest in our article: Hanoi on a Budget + Map

We recommend:

– Walking around one of the many lakes first thing in the morning – Trying coconut coffee at Cong Caphe – Trying egg coffee – Eating Bún chả (Vermicelli noodles, grilled pork, herbs, fish sauce) – Taking a food tour with a local

Click to see Hanoi tours here >

Where to stay in Hanoi:

Proximity to Hanoi’s Old Quarter is recommended. The following are highly rated accommodations in this area:

Little Charm Hanoi Hostel – $ – Elegant dorm style with continental breakfast. Check rates & availability >

Hanoi Garden House – $$ – Rooms with private bath and breakfast. Check rates & availability >

Eco Boutique Hotel  – $$$ – New rooms with private bath and breakfast. Check rates & availability >

Mai Chau: Overnight Trip from Hanoi

What to do:  Nestled in a scenic valley in Vietnam’s Northern mountains, you’ll find traditional stilt house villages of Vietnam’s ethnic minority peoples: White Thai and Black Thai.

Tourism found Mai Châu years ago, but it’s still a great place to slow down and encounter another culture.

Due to its distance from Hanoi (3 – 4 hours if you hire a driver), we have excluded Mai Châu from the 10 day itinerary but provide it as an option if you’re staying for 2 weeks or more. Mai Châu may be considered an alternative to Sapa, another mountain destination in the North which tends to get more attention.

Learn more about things to do in our article: Mai Châu on a Budget

– Staying overnight in a traditional homestay – Exploring the villages by bicycle

Not ready to visit Mai Chau on your own? This guided overnight trip includes transportation, lodging, and meals.

Where to stay in Mai Chau:

Avoid the main town and stay in a village instead. For the best impact on your own experience and the community, book private rooms in a family homestay.

Truong Huy Homestay – $ – Friendly hosts, rustic rooms, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Mai Chau Countryside Homestay – $/$$ – Friendly hosts, variety of rooms, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Mai Chau Valley Retreat – $$$ – Oasis in the rice fields, modern rooms, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Ninh Binh: Day Trip or Overnight Trip from Hanoi

What to do: Just two hours South of Hanoi by train or car, Ninh Binh province can technically be visited as a day trip though an overnight would be preferred.

Sometimes called the “Ha Long Bay On Land,” it is a less crowded alternative to Vietnam’s coastal karsts. Similar magnificent cliffs just up from the flat countryside, with epic paddleboat rides available on the rivers that wind through the karsts with their secret temples and caves.

For the top sights in Ninh Binh, see our article: Ninh Binh on a Budget + Bicycle Routes Map

– Trang An boat tour (over the one at Tam Coc) – Cycling around Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda, and Mua Cave – Don’t bother much with Ninh Binh the town, except to eat at Trung Tuyết

Not ready to visit Ninh Binh on your own?  This guided day trip includes transportation, meals, boat ride, and bicycle ride.

Where to stay in Ninh Binh:

Tam Coc Moonlight Bungalow – $ – Quaint private rooms or dorm style, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Mountain Lake Homestay – $/$$ – Private rooms with lake view, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Tam Coc Wonderland Bungalow – $$/$$$ – Private bamboo rooms, views, pool, breakfast. Check rates & availability >

Ha Long Bay: Day Trip or Overnight Trip from Hanoi

What to do:  The famous Ha Long Bay is another place that can technically be done as a  day trip from Hanoi , though most people recommend spending two or three nights to make the best of it.

This is one of Vietnam’s most visited spots, so it gets very crowded and full of cruise boats. Most people tend to book a cruise package, which includes transportation from Hanoi, sleeping cabin, meals, guide, and options for hiking, kayaking, or bamboo boats.

A less crowded alternative is visiting from the nearby Cat Ba Island port through Lan Ha Bay . Or, as we mentioned above, visit Ninh Binh (a.k.a. Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay On Land) instead.

Check out Ha Long Bay cruise options here >

Hue: Central Vietnam

What to do: The city of Huế has had a very important role in the region’s history. It was once the capital during the Nguyen Dynasty, when a large citadel and moat was built to protect the Imperial City.

Later, being right at the line between North and South, it saw one of the biggest battles in the Vietnam-American War. 

One or two days is generally enough to see the main sights of Huế, though we skip it in the 10 day itinerary to leave more time for Hoi An.

For top things to do in Huế, see our article: Hue on a Budget

– Do a city walking tour with Thu – Cycle to Thien Mu Pagoda and around the Citadel if weather permits and you feel comfortable in some traffic – Transit from Hue to Da Nang/Hoi An via motorbike tour with Phu – Check out these unique tours and activities led by locals

Where to stay in Hue:

Hue Sweethouse Homestay – $ – Riverside guesthouse with private bathroom, parking, wifi, and breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Hue Riverside Villas – $$/$$$ – Riverside property with contemporary villas, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Da Nang: Central Vietnam

Da Nang is a big city with an international airport on Central Vietnam’s  Coast. If you’re looking for a beach resort with modern amenities like malls and movie theaters nearby, you may want to stay here longer.

Not being big city people, we typically just use Da Nang to get to Hoi An and Hue.

As mentioned above, we highly recommend a motorbike tour with our friend, Phu . Based in Hoi An, he specializes in the back roads that lead to traditional villages, scenic viewpoints, and waterfalls around Da Nang, Hoi An, and over the Hai Van Pass.

For off-the-beaten-path things to do in Da Nang, see our article: Unique Da Nang Guide

– Ride to the Son Tra Peninsula (“Monkey Mountain”) and see the Lady Buddha temple grounds – Visit Hai Van Pass via motorbike tour with Phu – Check out these unique tours and activities led by locals

Where to stay in Da Nang:

Mid-Range Luxury Beach-side: Voco Ma Belle Hotel (IHG) Central Apartment with Balcony:  Han Apartment Central Budget Homestay:  Bao Tran Homestay

Hoi An: Our Favorite Place in Vietnam

What to do: Hội An, just 45 minutes South of Da Nang along the coast, is one of our favorite places in the world.

Once one of the most important trading ports in the world, the well-preserved Old Town is full of color and charm. Granted, large tourist groups make Old Town quite crowded at peak times, but Hội An has so much more to offer in terms of food, scenic surroundings, and day trips.

For the best things to see, do and eat, check out our article: Hoi An Itinerary + Walking Map  

– Visit the markets in the morning – Visit Old Town and the river in the evening – Go on a bike ride through the rice paddies – Have a meal at Nu Eatery – Try these other Best Places to Eat in Hoi An – Visit the Marble Mountains and these other Day trips from Hoi An – Try one of these unique experiences led by locals

Where to stay in Hoi An:

We have a full Guide on Where to Stay in Hoi An , complete with recommendations based on your trip goals and budget. Our all-time favorite homestay has retired, but we’ve now stayed for almost a month here:

Yen Homestay Villa – $ – Friendly and family-run, modern hotel-style rooms, pool, bicycles and breakfast included.

Check rates and availability for Yen Homestay on booking.com >>

Also, here’s a quick video recap from our un-tour in Hoi An, so you can get a feel for the city:

DaLat: South Vietnam Mountains

What to do:  Da Lat, known as a City of Eternal Spring, is a nice mountain retreat when the rest of Vietnam is all heat and humidity. For this reason, it’s quite popular with domestic tourists.

Da Lat is known for both natural and man-made landmarks. Popular destinations include its walking street (Hoa Binh area), some unconventional architectural marvels (like the “Crazy House”), flower gardens, and nearby waterfalls.

For the best things to see, do and eat, check out our article: DaLat Itinerary + Walking Map  

– Visit the market and lake area – Try local foods like banh can and hot soy milk – Take day trips to explore nearby natural beauty

Where to stay in Da Lat:

Pretty Backpackers Hostel – $ – Friendly, family-run hostel with bunk bed dorm rooms. Check price & availability >

HomeSweetHome – $$ – Spacious, modern homestay with exceptional breakfast. Check price & availability >

Ho Chi Minh City a.k.a. Saigon

What to do: Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest city with 13 million in the metropolitan area. HCMC is the country’s financial center, home to numerous industries and modern amenities. Like Hanoi, the city is buzzing with motion and tourism centers around the French colonial district (District 1).

Ho Chi Minh City also has a major international airport, so even if you choose not to stay long, it is often a convenient city to fly in and out of. 

Check out these unique experiences in Ho Chi Minh City led by locals>

– Explore the expansive markets for produce and goods – Find historic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Post Office – Enjoy all kinds of cafes and restaurants

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City:

Coucou Homestead – $/$$ – Private room or small shared dorm, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Hammock Hotel Fine Arts Museum – $$/$$$ – Stylish rooms with rooftop deck. Check rates & availability >

Adora Art Hotel – $$$ – Elegant rooms and suites, breakfast buffet included. Check rates & availability >

More Resources to Help You Plan Your Trip to Vietnam amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; amzn_assoc_search_bar = "false"; amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "cgbook-20"; amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual"; amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; amzn_assoc_region = "US"; amzn_assoc_title = "Vietnam Travel Guides"; amzn_assoc_linkid = "611a8fdeff05739fce0da941c788afe2"; amzn_assoc_asins = "1426213638,1786570645,1786570300,1640971033"; 

1. GetYourGuide – GetYourGuide also has fantastic experiences across Vietnam, including tours, classes, and even photo shoots.

Browse Experiences in Vietnam here >

2. BookAway – Compare and book Vietnam transit tickets on BookAway. It’s not easy to find train tickets, bus tickers, or private car hires online for Southeast Asia. This is one of the few platforms where you can book in advance with your credit card, in your home currency, and even read user reviews of the different options.

3. ✈️ Protect your Vietnam trip with Travel Insurance – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

Still need help planning your Vietnam trip?

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My 1-Month Vietnam Travel Itinerary: Planning A Vietnam Trip!

I was determined to experience as much of Vietnam as possible during my 1 month of travel through the country. My journey started in Ho Chi Minh City in southern Vietnam, and over the course of my 4 weeks there, I slowly worked my way north to Hanoi via buses and trains.

Covering a total of 7 destinations, this was definitely one of my busiest months of travel in Southeast Asia , however, I also feel that this pace allowed me to thoroughly experience Vietnam as a whole.

For anyone planning a similar trip across the length of the country, here’s a look at how I structured my month of travel in Vietnam :

Ho Chi Minh City / Saigon

– 3 days –

Saigon is a city for foodies! When I wasn’t sightseeing, I was eating my way around town and one of the  food highlights  turned out to be pho. I had tried pho before and I always thought it was such a bland dish without very much flavour, but as it turns out, I just needed to eat it in Vietnam to enjoy the dish in all its glory. The combination of cilantro, chilli peppers, lime, Asian basil and bean sprouts was amazing!

In terms of sightseeing, since my time was limited, I decided to sign up for a 1 day tour of the city and I then spent the rest of the time wandering around on my own. (There are plenty of tour agencies across the city, so you won’t be short of options!)

My tour took me to the Vietnam War Remnants Museum for a sobering look at the lasting effects of the Vietnam War; the Reunification Palace , where the North Vietnamese crashed through the gates officially putting an end to the war; the  Thien Hau Pagoda , which is a temple dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea; the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica , which is a cathedral that was established by the French colonists; and lastly the Saigon Central Post Office , which was based on a design by Gustave Eiffel!

Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is a region in southwestern Vietnam where the Mekong River empties out into the ocean. The delta is made up of a vast network of streams and rivers, and the wildlife found in the region is truly astonishing. While I may have ended up on the nightmare tour of the Mekong Delta , this region of Vietnam is full of lush vegetation and natural beauty. In short, it is not to be missed!

My one tip is that you do your research when it comes to the company you’re going to be booking your tour with. I took a tour that looked great on paper – we were going to be visiting a lot of places – however, what we weren’t told is that most of our time would be spent sitting on a bus and that our stops would be extremely short.

Uhh, you’re giving me 30 minutes to climb 400 steps, visit a temple , and come running back down those 400 steps?” This could be a problem…

– 4 days –

I wanted to squeeze in some beach time while I was in Vietnam, so a little stop in Nha Trang offered a nice seaside break . While this destination may pale in comparison to some of the lesser known islands in Southern Thailand, I thought it was a good enough spot – the waters were warm, the sand was clean, and because the beach is so spread out, sometimes I had the whole place to myself.

I will say that the town of Nha Trang doesn’t offer much in terms of culture . There are a few side trips you can take – there’s the local fishing village, the Long Son Pagoda which is home to a massive reclining Buddha, and the Po Nagar Cham Towers which were built by the Cham civilization – however, this is predominantly a beach town .

– 9 days –

I rave about Hoi An anytime people mention travel in Vietnam. This was one of those standout destinations that I’m still thinking about a year later.

Most of the historic sites in Hoi An work on a coupon system – you pay $6 and this grants you admission to a number of temples, assembly halls, and workshops. While the Old Town of Hoi An is quite small, I managed to see something new every day I was there.

If you want to get crafty and take a unique souvenir home with you, there are classes where you can learn to make lanterns and conical hats. Not only do you pick up a rather unusual skill, but it also makes your souvenir all the more special.

There were also plenty of places to visit outside of the city, like the Tra Que Herb Village , Cua Dai Beach, and An Bang Beach.

Of course, you can’t come to Hoi An and not go shopping. Despite its size, the city of Hoi An is known for the hundreds of tailor shops scattered across the city. Travellers come from far and wide to have their clothes perfectly tailored and it doesn’t cost a fortune. When it comes to picking out clothes, you can either choose a model you like in the store, or you can bring in a picture from a magazine and the tailors will recreate that look for you. I managed to walk away from my time in Hoi An with 3 new dresses!

Hanoi was the one city in Vietnam that I didn’t really click with. I think it was the combination of mad traffic, incessant honking, and the fact that I’d had a very busy month of travel through the country. While I didn’t feel very inspired to go out and explore, I did manage to visit  Hoan Kiem Lake in the historic centre of town, and attend a water puppet show at  Thang Long Water Puppet Theater .

– 2 days –

I couldn’t imagine coming to Vietnam and not witnessing the natural marvel that is Halong Bay. Also known as The Bay of Descending Dragons , Halong Bay is home to some of the most fascinating topography in the world. Rocky karst formations covered in lush vegetation rise out of the waters giving the bay an other-worldly feel.

I knew a one day tour would not be enough time to soak in this magical landscape, so I signed up for a 3 day – 2 night boat tour. The next 3 days were spent sailing the harbour aboard the junk boat (that’s just the name, the boats are not junky!), and taking part in a number of activities like kayaking in the bay , visiting caves, and hiking around some of the islands.

I can’t recommend this experience enough!

When it comes to choosing a tour of Halong Bay, you’ll want to do your research. From wild party cruises where young twenty-somethings get deserted on an island ‘Castaway-style’ to high-end luxury cruises, there is something for every type of traveller and every budget .

Also, consider what time of year you’re travelling in. I went to Halong Bay in May when it was jelly-fish season! This meant no swimming or jumping off the ship unless you wanted to get seriously stung.

– 6 days –

The mountainside town of Sapa was another favourite of mine. This frontier town which is only a few kilometres away from the border with China , was a much welcomed retreat after a whole month of travel in the country. The cooler temperatures made it very pleasant to spend the days walking outdoors.

My time in Sapa was spent visiting the local markets, hiking to nearby villages like Cat Cat , and also doing a 2 day trek through the hill tribes with a local guide. The scenery we saw was truly breathtaking.

If my Vietnamese visa had not been about to expire, I would have gladly spent weeks here. I mean, just look at those mountains!

What would I change in my Vietnam travel itinerary?

• There were a few destinations that I’ve heard many travellers rave about, that I simply didn’t have enough time to visit. The sand dunes in Mui Ne and the beaches of Phu Quoc Island are the two places I wish I’d made it to.
• When it came to travelling the Mekong Delta, I wish I had chosen a more relaxed tour . The tour I took spent too much time rushing around from one destination to the next aboard a bus, when all I wanted to do was sail the Mekong.
• I really enjoyed hiking through Sapa and if I’d had more time I think I would have signed up for a longer trek through the mountains . The 2 days flew by!
• I really can’t complain about the weather in Halong Bay; while the mornings started out misty, the fog would soon clear to reveal spectacular landscapes, however, my tip for travellers is to try to avoid jelly-fish season ! If you’re looking forward to a lot of water-based activities, this could put a bit of a damper on the trip .
• More train travel . My travels in Vietnam were made up of a combination of buses and trains. The buses were probably one of the most terrifying aspects of travelling in Vietnam – imagine kamikaze-style drivers who are not afraid to swerve onto oncoming traffic in order to pass vehicles. This aggressive driving style coupled with ceaseless honking and very few bathroom breaks, made the overnight bus journeys torturous. I would suggest you take the train .

Have you been to Vietnam? What destinations would you add to this Vietnam travel itinerary?

121 Comments

Great write-up, thanks.

Question: You say to avoid jellyfish season but when exactly IS jellyfish season. You were there in May, but how long does it last?

I’ve just googled that and it appears that jellyfish season can run anytime between May and September. I only experienced it when I was there at the end of May, so I really can’t say how bad it is during the other months…

I enjoyed reading your travel story. I’m visiting Vietnam this November and am thinking of whether to take 4 or 5 weeks here. I’ve been before to Hanoi. I was going to divide the holiday between Vietnam and China bit I think it will be cold there in December. I think it is best to do Vietnam now and China another time. Do you recommend 4 or 5 weeks? My return flight home is from Bangkok.

Awesome itinerary, Audrey. I will definitely be using this to help plan my trip to Vietnam in the fall! Love your pictures. If you could pick one place to have spent more time, which would it be?

That’s awesome that you’re heading out to Vietnam! That was one of my favourite countries to travel through in Asia. In terms of places to linger, I really enjoy smaller towns with a laid-back feel, so Hoi An and Sapa were 2 of my favourites. I would have gladly spent more time in either of those 2 places. 🙂

Jellyfish season occurs from June to end of September. Be cafeful when swimming then.

Totally agree about the buses, they were horrific!!

I really want to go to Vietnam. Must have been great to take your time to tour around even if it looks like you guys were always on the move. I love that type of travel. See as much as you can!

Yeah, it was a busy month, but I’m glad we had a quick pace because it allowed us to see quite a bit of the country. 🙂

Looks like you guys had fun! By the way, Halong Bay looks a lot like Phang Nga Bay in Thailand to me.

That’s nice to hear! I didn’t make it to Phang Nga Bay in Thailand, so this makes me feel like I didn’t completely miss out. 😉

yes cannot agree more…Vietnam is such a beautiful place to go. Took me 3 separate trips to cover the whole of Vietnam ie. South, Central & North….i prefer the Central & Northern part of Vietnam

Looks amazing or maybe that’s because of you and Sam. Definitely on the list!

We spent a month in Vietnam, too, but were stuck in Saigon for 2 weeks dealing with a visa issue. However, the rest of the time we spent exploring was unforgettable. We loved central Vietnam. We sadly weren’t able to take the train because we were there during Tet and with our changed plans, it was too late to get a train ticket, so we had to fly. We missed out on North Vietnam, so it just gives us another reason to go back!

That’s too bad that you encountered visa problems in Vietnam, but on the bright side, I guess Saigon isn’t such a bad place where to wait. They had such a great foodie scene there!

Thanks for the tip about jellyfish season! I had no idea there even was a jellyfish season!

Was there also a lot of rubbish in Ha Long Bay? I’ve heard there is.

I honestly didn’t see a lot of garbage in Halong Bay, but I guess it could all depend on the tides and the season.

There are so many great things to do in Vietnam and so many amazing places to explore that one month is not enough to see it all. However, you highlighted the most important spots which I have been to and miss a lot these days. Hanoi was my favorite followed by Ninh Binh. 9 days is just the minimum to see these spots :).

Wow, I just looked at photos of Ninh Binh and it looks amazing! I had honestly never heard of this place until you mentioned it. The landscape look surreal – a bit like Yangshuo, but more of a rural feel. 🙂

Good read! I Have been living in Vietnam now for a year and a half. The whole place just clicks for me! I am currently based in Nha Trang due to the warmer climate here and the vast amount of expats. But as a whole it is probably one of the least desirable places to live in ‘Nam. I would like to add though that there are a few more great things to do in this area; You could nip down to Bai Dai (long beach) which is only a half hour trip south of the city center, 20km of perfect untouched beach with some beautiful little shacks serving great food and great company (My Hung is my choice, but sample a few). You also have Doc Let, an untouch, non-tourist beach aprox 1.5 hours drive directly north, whilst you are heading that way, why not check out Ba Hoa waterfalls? 9 tiers and a bit of walk but get there early to catch the warm rays!

I am so glad you enjoyed Vietnam. A lot of tourist I have spoken to this year feel like the Vietnamese treated them badly and a few said that they had been ripped of to the point that i was gobsmacked!

But learn the basic langauge of where your heading and make sure you venture outside the normal tourist routes and trails. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how friendly they are!

Have great travels!

Thanks for all the great suggestions, Ollie! It’s nice to know that there are a few more attractions to check out around the Nha Trang area. I’m sure travellers reading through here for tips will appreciate the advice of someone who’s living there and knows the area by hand. Cheers!

This looks great. In the past, I spent 2 weeks in Vietnam and did Saigon, Mui Ne, and Phu Quoc. By far Phu Quoc was the highlight of my trip. My friend who lived in Vietnam for a year did the same length you did but on motor bike. She lived in Saigon, bought a motorcycle and sold it in Sapa. Man, I really want to go to Halong bay after looking at your pictures 🙂

I totally did your trip but minus Sapa and adding Hue, but it seems like Sapa is the better choice. Hue was great for the historical-side of things but not much else in my opinion! This is an awesome idea though, the travel itinerary. Thanks 🙂 x

This sounds like an ideal trip through Vietnam, a country I’m still eager to visit (maybe early next year…?!). I’ll definitely be coming back to this itinerary when planning my own…eventually!

Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to get to Sapa, and I would have loved to get to Dalat, where the local crafts are said to be fantastic. I completely agree with you on the other places, right down to not resonating with Hanoi – give me HCMC over Hanoi any day! Plus, I’d add Hue and maybe DaNang, home of the Marble Mountain, which is truly magnificent. Just writing this makes me think I need to go back 🙂

Thanks for sharing your tips, Barbara! It’s too bad I missed out on Hue because I’ve had several people recommend that as a cultural destination, and the Marble Mountains also sound like a pretty cool place to visit. 🙂

Great article! I’m doing a pretty similar trip right now, just got a couple more days in Ho Chi Minh, is crossing the road on foot an extreme sport all over Vietnam, or is it just this bad in the capital?

Hahaha, I know what you mean! It’s almost better to close your eyes and just let the scooters swerve around you. It was just as bad in Hanoi…best of luck out there! 😉

Wow, this is a great itinerary! I will sure to bookmark this for when I finally do make it there. A potentially stupid question as it may already be in the post but how long was travel time between the places? Could you do most of it overnight?

Hi Naomi, I can’t give you a precise time between destinations because it obviously varies from one place to the next. Some stretches of travel were only 6 hours, while others involved taking overnight buses and trains.

Great rundown! Will definitely help Anaïs and I when we get to planning the Vietnam section of our journey. Many thanks!

Hi Audrey I love Vietnam so much! Interesting that you didn’t click with Hanoi – we were the same upon our visit, and as such only stayed one night. We were advised to skip Nha Trang too, but ended staying five days! Thanks for taking me back there virtually 🙂 Great wrap up.

Thanks for this detailed itinerary! I’m planning to visit Vietnam this coming September with friends, but I’ll only stay there one week the longest. Now i think i know which part i should go to first 😀

I’d like to go to Vietnam this monsoon! I’ll have to bookmark this for later.

I’ve never been to Vietnam but that’s definitely somewhere I want to go! I’d love to volunteer there after my bachelor’s degree next year! It looks like your trip was … exhausting! Great but intense!

I wish I had seen more of Vietnam when I went. I only visited Saigon and the Mekong delta, but I’d love to see Sapa and Halong Bay too. Guess I will have to return to Asia one day. 🙂

Yes, I highly recommend visiting the northern part of the country if you get the chance! The landscapes there were amazing! 🙂

Lucky you, having a whole month to explore that fabulous country! We only had 10 days so had to make some hard decisions about what to see and do. We spent 5 days in HCMC, saw the Cu Chi Tunnels, and had a day trip planned for the Mekong Delta that we ultimately had to cancel due to food poisoning. From HCMC we flew to Hanoi for a few days and then took a Halong Bay cruise. It’s too bad you didn’t click with Hanoi, I just loved the crazy energy of the old quarter!

Thanks for this! We are currently trying to figure out our itinerary as we head to Saigon on April 10th. This has been helpful in figuring out the amount of days to stay in each town since our plan is fairly similar except with Mui Ne instead of the Mekong.

Mui Ne sounds like a nice choice! It’s kind of cool that you can find a ‘desert oasis’ in Vietnam.

This is a super informative wrap-up! I love seeing how people spend their time in countries. Usually there isn’t enough time to see everything or you find out about places you missed. But, there’s always next time to catch up with those spots, or re-visit the places that you loved the most! I’m saving this blog post for future reference 🙂

Great itinerary! I would also recommend Ba Be National Park. It is off the beaten path, which can be hard to do in Vietnam. The park is stunning and we were able to do a trek through many different ethnic minority villages. We were the only tourists on the entire trek! Definitely a must do.

Thanks for sharing your recommendation, Alison! Ba Be National Park sounds like a wonderful part of the country to experience. I really enjoyed my trek in Sapa, so this one sounds like a lot of fun.

Too bad you missed Phu Quoc Island — it was pretty special.

We spent one month in Vietnam in April 2011. We visited the same places as you and were sad to miss Mui Ne and Phu Quoc. We loved Hanoi (it was our first stop) – We went to Cat Bay Island and Lan Ha Bay (similar to Ha Long), Sapa and Bac Ha, Ninh Binh, the Mekong Delta (could have been longer) and of course Hoi An (our favourite). We stayed 5 days there and others have said they thought that too long, so I was happy to see you stayed 9. We also loved Nha Trang where we rode bicycles, snorkelled, went to My Son and relaxed. I also wished we could have visited Dalat.

You got to get a lot done during your time there! Even though you didn’t get to see and do everything, at least that’s an excuse to go back again and visit. I’ve never really done to much research about Vietnam and didn’t know there was so much to do. Now I know, and I really want to go!

Looks great! I only visited the north. I would really like to go to the south. I hope to this year. Fingers crossed!

Hanoi is a very nice city once you get used to it. I totally loved seeing the legendary sea turtle of the lake, it’s HUGE!

Hi! I’m currently in Vietnam right now working my way upp to Hanoi and Sapa. Your posts on Vietnam and your way up is a great fun to read. What I find difficult is to find good angencies to travel with when it’s hard to do the trip by yourself bit you seem really pleased with your trekking tour i Sapa and the boat Cruise in Halong Bay, and i wondered if you could recommened the agencies. I too vad a real bad experience IF the mening delta, horrible and i just really don’t won’t to do the same mistake again. I really enjoy your blog by the way!!! 🙂 hope you can help me out with some tips! /Felicia

Hi Felicia,

I booked my tour of Halong Bay with a company called ET Pumpkin that has its offices in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. I also booked my train travel to Sapa through them. In terms of accommodations in Sapa, I booked the Mountainview Hotel independently once I arrived, and I also booked my trekking tour through the hotel.

I hope that helps! Have a great trip out there.

Hi, Thanks for a wonder blog and many youtube videos I have read your post here. I think you forgot to visit Con Dao island – south of vietnam, the best place in vietnam from my many vietnamese locals, not many tourists know this place. Besides, Ca Mau to see its beautiful sunset, Da Lat for many beautiful lakes, Mui Ne for famous sand hills, Hue for history… If you have a second chance to come back vietnam, Con Dao is the must see place.

This looks amazing! I love posts like this with a summary and tips of where to go. I’d love to go back and make sure to check out the places you’ve mentioned!

Thanks for this post! I’ll be in Vietnam in the end of the year so that post is perfect for me:) Great pictures and tips:)

I absolutely loved Hoi An – there weas something about it that was so friendly and warm! Did you get a chance to visit this little tea house there? http://wp.me/p3Lian-7H

I have checked your itinerary, but could not find Hue city. the old capital of Vietnam. You missed it. It’s beautiful city with the romantic river flowing through the city; the best street food in Vietnam.

Hey Audrey, I have just come across your blog. It is fantastic! I leave for a 12 month trip around the world next Wednesday, and after a brief stop in Singapore, we head to Hanoi to start our trip in Vietnam. It is so helpful reading your articles, not to mention interesting! I look forward to following you from now on. Thanks! Bex

That’s great to hear, Bex! I’m happy to hear the articles have come in handy with planning your trip. 🙂 Wishing you fun travels all around the world!!!

I’m Vietnamese. I was very touched when you write about us. I hope, Vietnam beauty will make you happy.

It partly comes down to how long you’ve got! All the places you mentioned , in addition, Hue, must do, Ninh Binh, both the river and the temple, and I’m suprised no one mentioned Phong Nha, as good a cave system as you will see anywhere in the world. Beyond the unmissable Hoi An my personal favorite is Ha Noi, takes a while to get used to but has a great laid back atmosphere.

Hi Audrey. Your post is really great. I’m planning to go to Vietnam in the middle if December for 1 month with my wife. Is this a good time for travelling? Your itinerary looks perfect for us… Maybe just opposite direction.What do you think: new year eve in Hui or on the beach (like Nha Trang)? How much money do we need for this (budget travellers)? Marko

December is a good time to travel in Vietnam and Southeast Asia in general. It can get a little chilly up in the hills in the northern part of the country (namely Sapa). In terms of budgeting, it really depends on your travel style. My partner and I were spending a total of $1000-1200 per month in SE Asia, but we weren’t there during the high season so prices might be a little higher over the Christmas and New Years holidays. I hope that helps a bit!

Thank you Audrey. One more question: did you make reservations for sleeping and transport in advance?

Wow, what a trip! Even if it’s a month, no matter how long you’re somewhere, it’s always not enough! Thanks for sharing!

Audrey, It is an awesome article! It’s great to know that you have visited all highlights of Vietnam. Instead of going to Sapa with 8 hours overnight on the train, just take an 4 hours trip by bus to Mai Chau which is great to check out. Mai Chau is a 139km trip from Hanoi through mountainous terrain, in a valley about 10km from the Song Da River and only 150 meters above sea level. The village of Ban Lac is in an idyllic and charming, rural valley which is nestled between two towering cliffs surrounded by emerald green paddies and is an enchanting sight as you wind down the cliff side.

Going off the beaten path to Hanoi countryside to do eco tours which is unique and memorable experience, you can gain an insight into Vietnam and have a chance to farm, fish, cook with locals.

I do recommend those places Mai Chau and eco tours in Hanoi.

Great Itinerary Audrey. I’ll have about 2.5 weeks to see as much of Vietnam as possible. I’m going to skip out Nha Trang, and go to Mui Me for a little longer. I sadly may have to skip Sapa too, as I spent more time in Laos and Cambodia than I thought I would. The World is just too big. I wish I had more time/money to see a lot more.

Hey Audrey, You’re itinerary looks great, I was just wondering what accommodation you stayed in when you were in Sapa, it looks perfect 🙂

Seems like you guys have had quite the holiday in Vietnam! Your experience would definitely serve as a great source of information for all those travellers wanting to head over to Vietnam. Hoi An deserves a special mention as it is home to an UNESCO World Heritage Site which should be checked out. Also for accommodation, do consider Anantara Hoi An Resort from where the very essence of Vietnam can be enjoyed.

Nice story about Vietnam travel and i am really surprised to read that you ve been 9 days in Hoi An -)) I know Hoi An is very imteresting but i never thought spend more than 4 days there -)) Nice blog and beautiful pictures

Thanks a lot for the awesome itinerary and the tips! sounds so much fun! I planned to go to Vietnam next year. Do you think I should booked the train ticket ahead or the tickets can be bought on the same arrival day? Is it cheap and easy to buy the train ticket?

Hi Dania, I usually booked my train tickets a few days in advance when I was already in the country. You can easily book tickets through a travel agency or a tour operator. Just try to avoid travelling during major holidays like Tet, because then tickets will be very hard to come by.

Hey there, did you fly out of Hanoi or did you have to go back to Saigon? I am trying to book flights, and round trip is so much cheaper it seems…So it would be more economical to do a round trip, but seems to mess with itineraries I find.

Hi Christopher, I arrived in Saigon (HCMC) and worked my way north by bus and train. Then when I finished my trip, I flew out of Hanoi. It didn’t make a lot of sense to backtrack all the way south. If you’re only travelling in Vietnam and you have a round-trip ticket, you may have to backtrack regardless, but if you’re doing a bigger loop around SE Asia, it’s easy to buy one-way tickets and keep moving. I hope that helps!

Which cruise did you take in halong bay and which motel is that pictured in sapa? I am traveling there in March 2015 and I love that sapa motel room view.

Hi Mic, we booked our Halong Bay tour through ET Pumpkin (they have their offices in Hanoi’s Old Quarter). And the hotel we stayed at in Sapa was called “Mountain View Hotel” – it’s worth upgrading to the balcony room for views like that. Enjoy our travels!

Thanks for the help and your reviews

I’m leaving to Vietnam tmr and haven’t planed out anything yet. ’cause I just finished my final papers. This helps me out a lot. Thanks tons!!!

I’m Vietnamese. I live in Ha Noi capital. I work in General Department of Taxation. I really happy if Audrey come back to Vietnam. If any one intend to travel to Vietnam – Hanoi and need me to be your travel guide in Ha Noi. Please call me and send email to [email protected] (+844 904 367781). I’m willing to help any one. You don’t have to pay money because I really want to advertise my country to you anh all other from other country. Thanks.

Hi I done end to end Vietnam by train in Late 2012 and early 2013 on my way to and from China.

Train travel in Vietnam is the way to go, cheap, comfortable, safe reliable, and you get the magnificent scenery on the way. I started in HCMC and finished in Hanoi, Then the reverse on the way home. I stopped in Nha Trang, great if you speak Russian, I met a Russian guy there who was disappointed as he felt it was too much like being back home! Street crime is bad there. Beautiful city though. Then it was DaNang nice beach city and found the river front very interesting! Then of course Hoi An, beautiful old town wonderful markets, watch out for rubbish includes Broken bottles buried in the sand at the beach! Ouch. :(. beautiful fresh sea food and local dishes! Then to Hanoi only saw the old quarter of the city, but really enjoyed the combination of Vietnamese hospitality and the best of European dining, French baking, chocolate, beer. And best of all is the price, stuff is so cheap!

I am due to fly back there tomorrow night for another month, fell in love with the place, I can forgive the traffic and the noise in the big cities, did not like the street crime and drug scene in Saigon so was glad to leave. So will head for Nha Trang. 🙂

hi..awesome piece… i am thinking of traveling to Vietnam in September for three weeks. any thoughts about the weather there this time of year? thanks

Hi Yardena, I was there in April/May so I can’t really speak from first hand experience. This link might help you out: https://www.selectiveasia.com/vietnam-holidays/weather/september

Thank you so much, as I am researching for my trip I noticed many bloggers praising the bustling city life in Vietnam and the excessive partying. It’s nice to get a more relaxed outlook on history and sights.

Hi Audrey…Lovely post. I wish i could also do a month trip…But i have only 9 days for Vietnam. Planning to go there for our anniversary. Please suggest a doable itinerary. It will be more of a backpack trip. Appreciate every bit of a suggestion.

Hi Sandhya, If you only have 9 days, I would suggest either focusing on the Northern or Southern part of the country. If you head south you can do HCMC and the Mekong Delta, and if you head north you could cover Hanoi, Halong Bay and maybe even Sapa.

Your article is very informative! i wonder how much did you spend for the entire month of touring Vietnam?

Is it advisable to cover North Vietnam in early December ?

It looks like an amazing place to visit. My friend is leaving for Vietnam in few weeks and he’s going on a bike ride and thanks for the great write-up.

Hi, this is an extremely useful guide that i plan to follow very soon! Was wondering what you did regarding the visa, I am unsure of how to get a visa of more than 15 days?? Thankyou so much

I applied for my visa while I was in Cambodia. They had it processed in 2 days. I’m not sure where you’ll be prior to Vietnam, but I suggest asking around at a few tour agencies.

Great itinerary! We backpacked for 3 weeks in Vietnam and loved it… one place I would recommend adding is Tam Coc, aka Inland Halong, the landscapes are gorgeous 🙂 Check out our blog for more inspiration and tips: http://bonatravels.com/2015/09/28/country-summary-vietnam/

Would you recommend sapa or the mekong as i will only manage 2 nights ?

It depends on where you are. If you’re closest to Hanoi, then Sapa makes sense. If you’re closest to HMCH, then touring the Mekong would be your best bet.

Thanks for the stories, Audrey. We are heading to Vietnam in April and following an itinerary similar to yours, so your comments and suggestions are very helpful. Looking forward to the train travel up the coast from HCMC to Hanoi. Thanks again

Great write up. Sorry if it have been asked before, what is the estimated spending for the trip?

Great article on Vietnam,

I sure love the culture and nature in Vietnam! Great diversity as well! My favorites were Sapa and Hoi An!

You make sapa sound so beautiful i will be making my way up north and will have to check out sapa. thank you for sharing it really helps.

love your blogging!!

just wondering how much did your trip cost

Hi, I really enjoy your blog and I am going to Vietnam in August for a month, too. How did you manage it with the booking. Did you just asked for a room when you were in the place or did you book on the internet?

greetings from Germany 🙂

Oh I live in Ho Chi Minh City but I don’t know that fact that Saigon Central Post Office was constructed by Gustave Eiffel. The awkward moment when a tourist know your place better than you :D.

Not so many people having that much time- 1 moth to see Vietnam. But it is recommended to spend at least 2 weeks so you can cover almost all the best of this beautiful country.

Great stories and photos. Thank you !

Hello guys. I am very sorry to bother you guys for a moment. Currently we have compiled an ebook about the famous street foods in Saigon, the selling popular snack locations, we also raised by processing instructions and how to make that dish. Because our ebook is bilingual book so that the tourists as well as foreigners also can read and reference. So, With the hope that can help a part in the process of introducing the culinary culture of Vietnam to international friends. I hope that you guys can help us share the link to download this ebook on your fanpage. We very appreciate your help. Thank you so much and have a great weekend! Link download: http://www.khoaxuatban.com/mua/vat-sai-thanh

Good post and thank you for the tips. We are heading off to Vietnam later this year and had been looking for a motorcycle tour company that gets visitors to the country off the beaten track. Seems just what we need.

We are travelling the Ho Chi Minh Trail early next year, and before deciding to buy bikes and do it ourselves, I was looking at the below guided tour. Thought may be of interest to you 🙂

http://vietnam-motorbiketour.com/ho-chi-minh-trail-motorbike-tours.html

Regards Chelsea

What a great read Audrey and such an exciting adventure! 🙂 Makes me even more excited now for our Vietnam trip in February 2017. We’re riding the Ho Chi Minh Trail by motorbike over 4 weeks, with a week in Cambodia, stopping at Mekong Delta, Mui Ne, Da Lat, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay and Sapa, but I’m struggling to decide how long to stay in each destination. Can you recommend?

We’re also hoping to visit Phu Quoc first from HMC but I just don’t think this is feasible 🙁

Enjoyed reading your blog on Vietnam, Audrey. I myself will be in Vietnam in February riding motorcycle from Saigon to Hanoi within a month. Love your comments & suggestions column, gave me some ideas what to expect. Thanks.

Hi! Amazing itinerary! I am wondering bout the camera you used to take your pictures? They are so colourful and gorgeous. My boyfriend and I will be making our way to Vietnam in May, and will definitely be referring to your itinerary! Thank you for sharing 🙂

Hi Teodora, Wishing you a great trip to Vietnam! I can no longer remember the name of that camera as it was several years ago, but it was a pretty simple point and shoot. I’m currently using the Canon G7X , which is also a point and shoot. I like that it’s compact, takes great photos, and it’s perfect for vlogging thanks to the flip up screen. Maybe one to consider. I edited those photos on Picasa at the time, so I’m sure you can get a similar feel regardless of the camera. Happy travels, Audrey

Looks like you got to see a lot of our beautiful country. Thanks for sharing!

My girlfriend and I will be traveling to Vietnam for seven days in October. The thing on the top of my to do list is a 3 day boat tour in Halong Bay. I have read everywhere to be cautious of who you book it with.

We are not looking for a party cruise. We are looking to spend the money to have a quality experience. Do you recommend booking with anyone specific?

Hi Zach, we booked our tour through ET Pumpkin Adventure Travel a few years back and were really happy with the experience. We had a mix of people in their late 20s-early 40s. Everyone got along really well and we had the option to do kayaking and beach excursions, or just hang out on the boat and enjoy the scenery. Another alternative for something a little nicer is Handspan Travel – my in-laws travelled with this company and they also had positive things to say.

Hi Audrey, it seems your trip was full of fun and very well organized. As a Vietnamese girl, I thank to you Audrey for sharing those great memories and glad you enjoyed your time in Vietnam

Thanks a lot for that article. Vietnam is on the top of my travel destinations list. Can’t forget the day we jumped on a seaplane from Hanoi to Halong and enjoy the stunning view below. Hoi An is also incredible, friendly people, old and authentic. Vietnam’s nature is amazing, you should take note these places to come and take picture when visiting Halong Bay: https://www.seaplanes.vn/blog/en/halong-bay-to-photograph/

hola! how did you get from mekong delta (where exactly where you?) to nha trang?? muchas gracias!

Hi Lau, we did our tour of the Mekong Delta from HCMC. Then once we were back in HCMC, we took the train to Nha Trang.

I love this post. It was so amazing trip. And If you have chance to come to Viet Nam again, i suggest that you can spend more time in Hue City. In here you can explore not only the beauty of historic tombs and towers but also the beauty of some amazing destination…Especially, Hue ‘s scenery at night is very romatic which you should not miss. Peace, nice scenery, friendly people in Hue will be nice memories in your trip. Beside that, local food in here is also great. You can taste Bun bo Hue, Banh Bot Loc, Banh Nam, Banh Khoai, Nem lui,… I hope you can get more great experiences in Hue city in the coming time. http://www.huetouristvietnam.com/en

Fantastic article you wrote here 🙂 We’ll go to Vietnam in about two months and your post really inspired me! I’m also glad to know that jelly fish season is in May and not November 😀

Have a fantastic day

Lovely! I’m going in December and cannot wait. Your tips really help to figure out where to go 🙂

Hello Audrey, thanks for the strong itinerary! We will start our journey through Vietnam next week and are getting pretty excited. We mostly liked the part about what you would change in your itinerary after judging your travel time afterwards. We will consider your points especially regarding the Mekong Delta tour. Greets and many new adventures, A Couple of Countries

I think your itinerary is excellent, taking in the very best of Northern, Central and Southern Vietnam.

I agree that Hoi An is absolutely charming and the beauty of it is that you can easily do many day trips from there, including Hue, Da Nang, My Son and other excellent places around Central Vietnam: https://scarletscribs.wordpress.com/2018/04/23/travel-guide-8-best-places-to-visit-in-central-vietnam/

If there’s more time, I’d also add Ninh Binh and Ha Giang in Northern Vietnam. Absolutely picturesque landscapes!

Definitely agree that Vietnam is so wonderful. My last trip to Lan Ha Bay (maybe it’s a less known name but I accidentally found it when booking a cruise tour with La Pinta cruise) was so memorable. Kayaking and squid fishing was funny. I then visited Hanoi and was amazed by it cuisine. I’m considering Phu Quoc Island for my upcoming trip in Vietnam.

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A Vietnam Itinerary for 1 Month or Less

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Vietnam is a huge country with a variety of natural and man-made wonders to explore. Due to Vietnam’s size, it would be impossible to see everything in just one month. It IS possible, however, to get a taste of the friendly culture and extraordinary nature that Vietnam is famous for, and to see the best of Vietnam! In this Vietnam travel guide, I’ll lay out an ideal Vietnam Itinerary for 1 month (or less).

When to Visit- The Best Month to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam is best visited in the dry season when the temperatures are still mild. March and April are the best months to visit Vietnam because they are the driest months, and the temperature is not too hot yet.

We visited Vietnam in March, and the weather was wonderful. It hardly rained, and North Vietnam was very comfortable with temperatures in the 60s Fahrenheit.

How to get a Vietnam 1 month Visa

The first, and most important, thing you will need to sort out for your Vietnam trip is a Vietnam visa! Vietnam does NOT offer a visa on arrival like most of the other countries in Southeast Asia. But don’t stress! Getting a Vietnam Visa is relatively easy with a little advance planning.

Getting your Visa in your home country

If you are traveling by air to Vietnam from the United States the Visa process is relatively simple. You need to go to the Vietnam E-Visa website and fill out the E-Visa form.

After you submit the form you will receive an approval letter. Take this letter with you on your flight to Vietnam, and when you arrive at customs you will pay the visa fee ($25 USD for single entry or $50 USD for multiple entry), and they will provide you with a visa stamp.

Getting your Visa in Southeast Asia

If you are a US citizen traveling through Southeast Asia and plan to enter Vietnam by land crossing then you will need to obtain a visa before you cross the border from Cambodia or Laos into Vietnam (most travelers cross over from Cambodia).

This can easily be done at any travel agency in Siem Reap or Phnomh Penh. However, be aware that it will take 2-3 days to get your visa, so be sure to allow that time in your travel schedule!

If you are a US citizen and choose to travel by air from a Southeast Asian country into Vietnam then you can follow the instructions above for “getting your visa in your home country”.

Vietnam Transportation- Getting Around Vietnam

There are plenty of good transportation options in Vietnam. For long distance transportation, train travel was our preferred method. For short distances within cities we rented bicycles, motorbikes, and used the Grab app.

Vietnam Train Travel

Train travel is the best way to get around Vietnam! The first class sleeper cabins are very affordable and very comfortable. The train runs all the way up the coast from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, and from there you can even take the train all the way to the northern border town of Sapa!

We took the train whenever possible, and were blown away by the beautiful coastal views out the train window.

Food and snacks are available to purchase on the train, but there’s not much on offer, so be sure to stock up on food and drinks before you board!

We booked our Vietnam train tickets through 12go.asia, a website where you can book transportation all over Southeast Asia. When booking your Vietnam train tickets be sure to book first class sleeper seats! The second class seating cars were often crowded, dirty, and hot, while the first class sleeper cars are clean and comfortable. It’s worth the extra money, trust me!

Grab is a rideshare app similar to Uber, and it is very popular in Vietnam. We used Grab to get around all of the urban areas we visited in Vietnam and had nothing but positive experiences with it!

Vietnam Itinerary 1 Month

Day 1-5 ho chi minh city.

Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect first stop for your one month Vietnam itinerary. Also referred to as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the charming cultural center of Southern Vietnam.

I have to admit, I was not excited to visit Ho Chi Minh. After having difficult experiences in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phnom Penh I had settled into the idea that I would not enjoy any of the large cities in Southeast Asia. Boy was I wrong!

Ho Chi Minh City is clean, visually stunning, and a LOT of fun! We only scheduled a 2 day stay there, and I so wish that we had given ourselves more time to explore, and to eat all the incredible street food on offer.

Vietnamese Street Food

Everywhere you look in Ho Chi Minh there are little street food stalls offering the most mouth-watering food you can possibly imagine at rock-bottom prices. I recommend trying as much of it as possible!

Here I’ll go over some of the most common and delicious street foods you will run into in Ho Chi Minh City.

This is a Vietnamese sandwich, traditionally served on a french-style baguette, with different processed meats, fresh veggies, mayo, and a spicy sauce.

I don’t know how they do it, but the Vietnamese have managed to create the perfect sandwich in the form of banh mi. Every banh mi I ate was uniquely delicious, and I think I could actually live off of this one Vietnamese food alone.

Pho is probably the most famous street food on offer in Vietnam, and with good reason. Pho is a noodle soup that can contain a variety of veggies and meats. The real magic of Pho is found in the broth.

I’ve eaten plenty of Pho in the United States, and none of it came close to the flavor explosion I experienced in Vietnam. Definitely do not leave Ho Chi Minh City without sampling a few different Pho street stalls!

This is a noodle dish with grilled pork, noodles, and fresh veggies. While it looks similar to Pho, it is actually very different in flavor and consistency.

The Bun Cha I tried was quite spicy and very delicious! This is another item that varies depending on who cooks it for you, so be sure to sample a few different stalls.

Vietnamese Beer

The Vietnamese take their beer seriously, and there are LOTS of local beers to try in Ho Chi Minh! Many street stalls will have locally brewed draft beers available at extremely cheap prices (as cheap as 30 cents for a glass)!

We sampled many different beers in Ho Chi Minh, and we were repeatedly impressed with the quality and variety. As native Oregonians, Tom and I tend to be beer snobs, and it was really fun to try so many beers we enjoyed so far from home!

Day 5-10 Hoi An

From Ho Chi Minh, you can take an overnight train ride to the coastal city of Danang. It’s a 45 minute drive from Danang to Hoi An, and it’s easy to take a taxi (or use the Grab app) from the train station to the lovely Hoi An.

Hoi An is a huge tourist destination, but it’s one of the few extremely touristy towns that we felt still retained plenty of local charm. Hoi An’s Old Town truly feels like stepping back in time, and it’s well worth exploring for a day.

Hoi An is particularly famous for its tailor shops, and you can have a dress, suit, or pants made to your exact specifications within a few days.

I decided to have a fun festival dress made while I was in town and it turned out exactly as I hoped for, and at a very reasonable price.

There is also much more to Hoi An than the touristy tailor shops that dominate its center. Rent a bicycle and ride through the rice patties surrounding Hoi An’s old town. Here you will get a taste of local life and possibly encounter a water buffalo grazing in the fields!

You can follow the rice patty paths all the way to the beach where you can easily spend a day lounging in the sun and sipping Vietnamese beer.

Hoi An beaches are so nice that we spent a whole week exploring them! Check out our Hoi An Beach Guide to plan your own Vietnam beach getaway!

Where to Eat in Hoi An

Be sure to eat at the locally owned and operated Morning Glory restaurant. We ate there several times, and every single dish we tried was one of the best foods we’ve ever eaten. This was our top food experience in all of Vietnam so don’t miss out!

Along the river, in the Hoi An Old Town, there are several Bun Cha and Banh Mi stalls serving incredibly delicious versions of these street food favorites. Be sure to grab a bowl and a stool when you visit.

Finally, for cocktails, walk all the way to the end of the Hoi An night market. When you hit the water look to your left for the little cocktail cart.

The lovely Vietnamese men that run this cart will make you a super cheap and delicious cocktail that you can sip while watching the boats glide by. This spot is best at sunset!

Where to Stay in Hoi An

We stayed at a few different properties in Hoi An, and our favorite hotel in Hoi An by far was Melody Villa Homestay. Vicky at Melody Villa takes great care of her guests, and gave us tons of useful tips to improve our visit to Hoi An.

Made-to-order breakfast and free bicycle rentals are included with your stay, and Melody Villa is conveniently located between Old Town Hoi An and the Hoi An beach, which makes it a perfect spot to explore from!

This recommendation is solely my opinion, I paid in full for my stay at Melody Villa Homestay.

Check availability at Melody Boutique Villa here!

Day 10-14 Phong Nha National Park

From Hoi An take a bus to the town of Phong Nha, gateway to Phong Nha National Park in Vietnam. Vietnam is home to the largest cave system in the world, primarily located in Phong Nha National Park.

There are a myriad of cave tours available in Phong Nha, and I recommend that you include a variety of experiences in your Phong Nha itinerary!

Traveling with kids? Check out what to do in Phong Nha National Park with kids !

Phong Nha Cave

Phong Nha Cave is a great way to begin your exploration of the area. This is the cave that the national park is named for, and while it is very popular with tourists, it really lives up to the hype!

To visit Phong Nha Cave you will board a small river boat in town, and travel a few miles to the entrance of the cave. Here the boat will enter the cave and you will experience the underground river that runs through this spectacular cavern.

After 1 kilometer you will disembark from your boat and walk through the cave to the exit, giving you a chance to view the gigantic inner chamber of the cave up close.

If you’d like to explore further into Phong Nha Cave you can schedule a kayak tour in town.

Hang Vom Cave

Tom and I decided we would splurge on one big cave tour in Phong Nha National Park, and we’re so glad we did!

Hang Vom Cave was only discovered in 2012, making it the most recently discovered cave in the area that is open to tourists.

The only way to reach this cave is to join a group trek, and hike several strenuous miles into the jungle. Don’t worry, the hard work will be well rewarded when you reach the cave!

Not only did we get to venture deep into the cave to view stalagmites, underground streams, and some crazy cave insects, but this tour also gave us the opportunity to swim inside this giant cavern.

There are numerous cave tours available in Phong Nha National Park, and I would recommend researching the tours that best fit your interests and fitness levels.

Phong Nha Accommodation

We stayed at Highway 20 Homestay in Phong Nha, and it was one of the best accommodation experiences we had in all of Southeast Asia!

Highway 20 Homestay is owned and operated by Vinh, one of the friendliest people you will ever meet. He helped us plan our entire stay in Phong Nha, and we even had dinner with his family twice during our stay.

The rooms at Highway 20 Homestay are absolutely beautiful. Vinh built them all himself, and he used local, re-purposed materials to create comfortable, attractive rooms for his guests. It was so nice coming back to such a lovely room after a hard day hiking through the jungle!

This recommendation is solely my opinion, I paid in full for my stay at Highway 20 Homestay.

Check availability at Highway 20 Homestay here!

Day 14-18 Ninh Binh

Once you’ve had your fill of Vietnam cave exploration, hop on a bus to the town of Ninh Binh!

Often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land”, Ninh Binh province is home to miles of beautiful limestone karsts jutting up from the mostly flat, green landscape.

Ninh Binh offers a variety of activities for visitors, including cave and boat tours. Additionally, the nationally renowned Bai Dinh Temple Spiritual and Cultural Complex is reason enough to visit the area.

Tam Coc, which translates to “three caves” consists of three natural caves that can be reached on one long boat ride. The boat will take you through rice fields, through the caves, and then back to the village where local women will try to sell you all kinds of souvenirs.

This is a very touristy activity so try to get there early in the morning before the tourist buses arrive and the river gets crowded.

Bai Dinh Temple Spiritual and Cultural Complex

Reserve a full day to explore this giant complex full of temples and spiritual relics! We didn’t know what to expect when we arrived at Bai Dinh, and we were pleasantly surprised by the magnificent scope and beauty of this site.

Interestingly, we encountered very few western tourists here. This is a very important site for the Vietnamese, and most of the people visiting were locals. This made for a meaningful cultural experience, as we found ourselves chatting with local tourists throughout the day.

Visit this site now before word gets out, and it becomes over-crowded like so much of Southeast Asia!

Day 18-25 Hanoi

Next up you’ll visit Hanoi, the urban center of North Vietnam! From Ninh Binh to Hanoi it’s an easy 2 hour bus ride.

Hanoi is a fascinating city with plenty to see, do, and EAT! We rented an apartment here for a week (through Airbnb), and would recommend you do the same.

Hanoi is VERY busy, and having an apartment to escape to helped us avoid getting overwhelmed.

Women’s Museum

This is a must-visit spot in Hanoi. This museum walks you through the history of women’s roles in Vietnamese society from ancient times, through the Vietnam War, all the way up to the current time.

I learned so much about Vietnamese culture through the engaging exhibits in this museum. Be sure to stop and watch the video about modern Vietnamese women in Hanoi, it was eye-opening.

Vietnam Military History Museum

I recommend reserving an entire day to explore this extensive museum which documents the Vietnam War (or the American War, as it is known there) extensively.

While this is certainly a sobering museum to visit, it is fascinating learning about the American War from the Vietnamese perspective.

The Vietnamese people were incredibly welcoming to us everywhere we went, and this museum was no exception. We felt very comfortable exploring this site.

There is an indoor and outdoor section to the Vietnam Military History Museum, and I recommend getting there as soon as it opens in the morning to avoid the tour buses that will inevitably begin pouring in after lunch.

The West Lake area of Hanoi is where many expats and young Vietnamese professionals live, and it’s a fantastic spot for a night out.

The eastern edge of West Lake boasts a variety of bars and restaurants, and it’s the perfect spot if you’re craving some American food after three weeks in Vietnam!

We had a delicious burger at Chops Tay Ho, and then walked down the street to enjoy a lakeside cocktail at one of the many nearby bars.

Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake

If you only have a few days in Hanoi then the Old Quarter is the place to go! Street food rules in this busy section of the city, and you can hardly walk 10 feet without running into a stall serving something mouth-watering!

On the southern edge of the Old Quarter you’ll find Hoan Kiem Lake. On the weekends the streets surrounding the lake will be closed to motorized traffic, and this is the BEST time to visit this area!

Be sure to stop and speak with the Vietnamese students who are practicing their English skills in the park. It’s a lot of fun to chat with these adorable kids who are learning to master English!

Day 25-29 Ha Long Bay OR Sa Pa

After Hanoi you have two very popular options to choose from: Ha Long Bay or Sapa.

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is probably the most popular tourist attraction in Vietnam. You’ve likely seen the epic photos of junk boats sailing through the bay.

The most traditional way to experience Ha Long Bay is on a 2 or 3 day Ha Long Bay cruise . The most reliable cruises are spendy, but if you can afford it this could be a once in a lifetime Vietnam experience.

If Ha Long Bay cruises are outside your budget, consider staying on Cat Ba Island for a few days. This island borders Ha Long Bay, and you can catch day cruises into the bay at significantly cheaper prices than the expensive, multi-day cruises!

In the verrrrrry northern tip of Vietnam lies Sa Pa, a small town that has become the trekking capital of Vietnam. From here you can take organized treks ranging from 1 day to 1 week into the mountains surrounding the town.

On most of these treks you will stay with locals in their homes overnight, making this an excellent way to experience the local culture.

Keep in mind that Sa Pa has become extremely popular in recent years, and much of the town is dedicated to tourism. Do your research before you book a trek, and make sure the company is reputable and reliable before you set off into the mountains.

Day 30-31 Return to Hanoi

Most of your transportation options out of Vietnam will originate in Hanoi, so be sure to leave yourself enough time to get back to the city and get to the airport!

We absolutely loved our month in Vietnam. In fact, Tom and I both agree that Vietnam was our favorite country in Southeast Asia. The people in Vietnam were warm and friendly, the food was the best we’ve eaten anywhere, and the natural beauty of the country blew us away.

If you are trying to decide on a country to visit first in Southeast Asia, I would recommend putting Vietnam at the top of your list!

Would you like to read more about our travels? Here we explain how we traveled Southeast Asia for 6 months with just carry-on bags !

Check out our 6 month Southeast Asia Backpacking route !

We spent 2 years traveling all over North America by RV, read about our adventures here !

Every summer we return to the USA to attend all our favorite festivals, read about those here !

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Ultimate Vietnam Itinerary For 2 Weeks – 1 Month!

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Planning 2 weeks in Vietnam or even longer? I got you covered. In this guide, I’ll share my 2 week Vietnam itinerary for those travelling on annual leave. Then, we’ll get stuck into my personal preference: 1 month in Vietnam !

VIETNAM ESSENTIALS E-sim data plan Copy of Lonely Planet Vietnam Book buses and trains in Vietnam: 12GoAsia Pre-book your Hanoi airport to city transfer Accommodation: Browse hotels on Booking.com // hostels on Hostelworld Tours: GetYourGuide Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads) Essential reading: 101 Southeast Asia travel tips

Read next: the ultimate guide to solo female travelling in Vietnam

It’s not surprising Vietnam is such a popular place to travel. As one of the cheapest destinations to include in your Southeast Asia itinerary , it’s easily accessible for backpackers yet there are plenty of luxurious places to stay if you fancy treating yourself. Some of the best things to do in Southeast Asia are in Vietnam: untouched nature and countryside, enormous cities of 8+ million people, picturesque towns and villages, jungle, beaches and the world’s biggest cave. The food is incredible and the people are so wonderful.

Check out my other 2 week Asia itineraries to Taiwan , Malaysia , Bali and Korea .

Vietnam itinerary – how long to spend?

I think 2 weeks in Vietnam is the bare minimum if you want to see North, Central and Southern Vietnam. If you have less time than this, I’d suggest sticking to one part of Vietnam and doing it properly, for example North Vietnam where the attractions are close(ish) to one another. If you have a month in Vietnam, fantastic! You can see more of Vietnam without feeling rushed. If you have anywhere between 2 weeks and 1 month in Vietnam, follow my Vietnam 2 week itinerary below and add extra days wherever you fancy OR add in a couple of stops from my 1 month Vietnam itinerary.

How much does 2 weeks in Vietnam cost?

Vietnam is a great place to travel on a budget . A two week Vietnam trip on $500 (£400) is easily achievable.  Here are a few general prices:

• Bed in a hostel dorm – 90,000 to 180,000 VND (an average of $7) per night. 
• Mid-range hotels – from 250,000 VND ($10) per night.
• Street food is also cheap. Bahn mi (baguettes packed with tasty ingredients) can cost as little as 15,000 VND (80c / 50p).
• Sit-down meals in local restaurants start around 30,000 VND ($1.30 / £1).
• Bus and train journeys start at $7 a journey.
• Budget a little extra for Ha Long Bay and Sapa tours ($350 should cover all-inclusive mid-range tours to both).

• You’ll be a millionaire in Vietnam! $100 is 2.284 million dong. Good luck getting your head around that 😉
• Cash is king. You are rarely able to pay with bank card.
• There are always ATMs in cities and towns but remember to bring enough money to Ha Long Bay and Sapa as it’s unlikely you’ll find an ATM.
• Wear a secure bum bag while taking night buses or in crowded places.
• Tipping isn’t mandatory but it is appreciated. You can tip waiters, guides and other service workers.

SIM cards in Vietnam

Most hostels and hotels will have Wi-Fi but it’s sometimes not the best. If you plan to get off-grid in Ha Long Bay and Sapa during your 2 week Vietnam itinerary, stay connected with local data, research the best Vietnam SIM cards for tourists . Alternatively, sign up for an E-sim data plan . Simply scan the QR code and get going, no pick-up or delivery needed!

Getting to Vietnam

The main international airports are Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) and Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Saigon). I use Skyscanner to compare, browse and book flights. Some backpackers arriving from Laos take the bus from Luang Prabang to Hanoi but beware, this is a long and uncomfortable ride! It’s possible to arrive/depart in Saigon via a multi-day boat that connects with Phnom Penh. This is a fun experience stopping at attractions along the way usually with hotel stays included.

How to get around Vietnam

It may be dull but getting from A to B is crucial to any trip… Bus – for backpackers on a budget, you can catch sleeper buses. These are fairly comfy with individual bunks, although you may struggle if you have long legs! You can purchase multi-ticket books in local tour agencies in Hanoi or Saigon then phone up to reserve seats a day in advance of travel. Alternatively, use 12GoAsia to book and compare the prices of buses, trains and flights.

Train – take trains for the scenic route, especially around Hue and Hoi An. Train journeys can be booked on 12GoAsia and are pretty cheap: usually less than $10 for a few hours. For longer sleeper trains, use GetYourGuide to book journeys, for example the Hanoi to Sapa train . Flights – internal flights in Vietnam can be a good option. I paid $70 to fly from Saigon to Hoi An which took around an hour and saved me two night bus journeys. If you’re going a long distance and not making stops in between, they’re a no-brainer.

Motorbike  – this is also a popular option. Some people take one the whole way up the country but the most popular section is along the Hai Van Pass between Hue and Hoi An. You can drive yourself or go aboard a guide’s bike (though this will obviously be more costly).

It varies for different countries so check your visa requirements and restrictions before arriving. I’d recommend at least a month in Vietnam purely due to the volume of things to see and do!

What’s great about Vietnam?

Aside from the food, people, scenery and culture, I love how easy it is to travel Vietnam. Yes, there’s a well-developed tourist infrastructure with lots of hostels, public transport and tour agencies. But it’s also the shape of Vietnam! Because Vietnam is so long and thin, you travel in one direction without needing to go back on yourself. There’s a clearly defined backpack route, it’s easy to decide where to go next, and you’ll even see the same faces along the way. It couldn’t be easier!

Vietnam itinerary for 2 weeks

I would suggest that you spend: – 1 week in North Vietnam – 1 week split between Central and South Vietnam. Quick overview:

• Days 1-2 – Hanoi
• Days 3-4 – Ha Long Bay. Take an overnight ride to…
• Days 5-6 – Sapa
• Days 7-10 – Hoi An. Fly or take an overnight bus to…
• Days 12-14 – Ho Chi Minh (Saigon).

For the first week, we’ll follow my 7 day North Vietnam itinerary .

Note – in the guide linked above, I also share my North Vietnam suggestions for 10 and 14 days. So if you’re captivated by the idea of North Vietnam (who could blame you?), consider spending most of your time there. If you want to see the best of North, Central and Southern Vietnam, keep reading…

This whole itinerary can easily be reversed. If you’re flying into Saigon (Ho Chi Minh) rather Hanoi, you can start on day 14 and work backwards.

Days 1-2 – Hanoi

Hanoi is a hazy blur of scooters, local food stalls, teeming streets and colonial buildings. It’s also my favourite place in all of Vietnam. Some travellers find it overwhelming but I love the bustling atmosphere so much I’ve been four times! Since you’ll start your trip by flying into Hanoi, you may as well make the most of it. You’ll pass through a couple of times as you travel to Ha Long Bay and Sapa.

If you’re a city lover, I’d suggest spending any spare days in Hanoi. But if you’re on a tight 2 week Vietnam itinerary, two days is enough to catch the highlights.

Read next: the ultimate Hanoi itinerary

Things to do in Hanoi:

• Explore the Old Quarter where market shopping is colourful and affordable and local life is everywhere
• Wander the beautiful grounds of the Temple Of Literature
• Many new friends on the banks of the Hoan Kiem Lake and cross the bridge to the Turtle Tower
• Catch a show at the Opera House in the old French Quarter
• Learn about the lives of women at Vietnamese Women’s Museum
• Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda , a 15-metre temple on an island in West Lake dating back to 541 AD
• Watch a cute but confusing show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
• Understand the history at Hoa Lo Prison (known as the Hanoi Hilton) where prisoners were kept during the war with the US
• Visit the final resting place of the Communist leader at  Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum  
• Eat delectable Hanoi street food like pho, bun cha and bunh cuon
• Drink egg coffee , coconut coffee and caphe sua (Vietnamese iced coffee) at the many Hanoi cafes
• Experience the nightlife on beer corner where locals and tourists sip bia hoi (locally-made beer) for as little as 20 cents a glass.

Getting around Hanoi:

It’s easy to see the Old Quarter on foot then call a Grab (the Asian equivalent of Uber) when you want to go further afield. There are cars and scooter taxis to choose from. The latter is super cheap and allows you to dodge traffic jams by whizzing around the cars on the back of your driver’s bike. Fun and a bit crazy!

Pre-book a Hanoi airport to city taxi from $13

Where to stay in Hanoi

Hostels: Old Quarter View Hostel ($5 a night) // Nexy Hostel ($7 a night). Browse all Hanoi hostels . Hotels: Hanoi Unique Hotel // Hanoi Garden Boutique Hotel & Spa . Browse all Hanoi hotels .

Read my Hanoi blogs (can you tell I’m obsessed?):

• 9 hidden gems in Hanoi
• Complete guide to Hanoi street food
• Cute & atmospheric Hanoi cafes
• Where to drink egg coffee in Hanoi
• Visiting Train Street, Hanoi
• Neighbourhood guide: Ngoc Ha, Hanoi
• Neighbourhood guide: Truc Bach, Hanoi

Top tip – crossing the road in Hanoi is an experience in itself! It’s overwhelming at first since every road is awash with torrents of weaving scooters. Be brave and go with the flow. They will drive around you!

Days 3-4 – Ha Long Bay

The weird and wonderful cliff formations at Ha Long Bay make the region a UNESCO Heritage Site. There are beaches, caves and islands to explore while spending a couple of days cruising through the region by boat. If you have two weeks in Vietnam, you can take a quick 2 day trip to Ha Long Bay, travelling there on day three and back to Hanoi on the afternoon of day four. You’ll spend the night sleeping in a cosy cabin on your cruise boat.

Possible alteration: If you have time, consider spending an extra day and night in Ha Long. You’ll spend longer cruising deeper into the Bay and stay overnight on gorgeous Cat Ba, the largest island. To do this, spend a day less in Hoi An later on.

How to visit Ha Long Bay: Pre-booked cruises include travel from Hanoi and all your meals and activities. Expect to pay around $150 for a two-day cruise, although there are better and worse options available depending how much comfort you want. For a reliable, mid-range option, browse GetYourGuide’s overnight Hanoi cruises including meals, kayaking and guides.

Tip – if you’re a backpacker, you may enjoy the Castaway cruises that can be booked in any Hanoi hostel. Just be aware that everyone will be early-mid 20s and boozing is a big focus! If this doesn’t sound like your thing, take a different cruise.

Days 5-6 – Sapa

Next, I suggest you catch a night train from Hanoi to Sapa when you return from Ha Long. Tiring but necessary if you have just 2 weeks in Vietnam!

This magical little spot north of Hanoi is all about misty mountain scenery, rice terraces and the charm of hill-tribe villages.

I didn’t visit my first time in Vietnam so made a beeline earlier this year. I had a magical time, trekking and meeting minority hill tribe villagers who wear distinctive traditional dress. Our guide told us that their languages and cultures vary even between neighbouring villages.

Read next:  The perfect Sapa itinerary

How to visit Sapa: Arrive by sleeper train from Hanoi and book your accommodation and treks separately or (the easier option), take a multi-day tour from Hanoi including accommodation, meals and trekking. The guides take you on remote treks you wouldn’t find otherwise. Browse tours in any Old Quarter travel agency or book in advance . I took this 3 day tour with a homestay ( 2 day trip also available) or you can opt for a hotel stay instead. The hotels are generally in Sapa town while the homestays are out in the countryside. I would highly recommend a homestay as you get to experience more of the local culture.

Note – we were able to leave our big backpacks in storage in Sapa town and just take small backpacks on our trek to the homestay. This was a godsend! There were some (crazy) travellers in our group who chose to take all their things. Trekking up a slippy, muddy hill with 15kg of luggage is not my idea of fun!

Days 7-10 – Hoi An

I adore Hoi An even though it’s busy and touristic these days. I’ve been plenty of times now (and stayed there for over 2 months during one trip) and I’m never ready to leave! Even if you do nothing but sip iced coffee in Hoi An whilst admiring the characteristic hanging lanterns and crumbling UNESCO World Heritage buildings, it’s time well spent during your Vietnam travel itinerary.

Read next: A complete Hoi An itinerary

Things to do in Hoi An:  

• Wander the charming old town, visiting the many temples, pagodas, ancient houses and the famous Japanese Covered Bridge
• Take a Hoi An cooking course. I loved this one including a market tour and basket boat ride to the cooking school!
• Visit An Bang beach (5km from town and accessible by taxi, scooter or bicycle)
• Take a day trip to My Son temple ruins
• Board a boat trip to the Cham Islands . We took an underwater walking tour with oxygen helmets before spending the afternoon on the beach.
• Marvel at the Night Market’s hundreds of lanterns or, better yet, make your own during a lantern craft class .
• Visit quirky Tam Thanh Mural Village , 40km from Hanoi. Join a organised tour or arrange a taxi tour with a local driver
• Take a day trip to Da Nang and walk along the famous Golden Hands Bridge.
• Cute coffee shops in Hoi An
• A digital nomad guide to Hoi An
• Ultimate Hoi An street food guide
• Where to eat veggie and vegan food in Hoi An

How to get from Hanoi to Hoi An: Board a sleeper bus all the way to Hoi An or a bus from Hanoi to Da Nang which takes 15 hours. These trains are pretty comfortable and you save a night’s accommodation as well as a day’s travel time. Of course, you can also fly from Hanoi to Da Nang airport. Da Nang to Hoi An is just a 30-minute drive by taxi, train, bus or scooter. Book your transfer .

Where to stay in Hoi An

Hostels: Hoi An Backpackers (visit for the breakfast buffet and pool) // Little Leo Homestay and Hostel (a cosier, quieter hostel). Hotels: Hoi An Life Homestay ($12 a night) // Greenlife Villa (boutique suites from $20 a night) // Tan Thanh Garden Homestay beside the beach and my favourite Hoi An coffee shop ($35 a night). Browse all Hoi An hotels and Hoi An hostels .

Days 12-14 – Ho Chi Minh/Saigon

Finish your 2 week Vietnam itinerary in the only city to rival Hanoi in size. For Vietnamese history, it doesn’t get much better than Ho Chi Minh City which is frequently referred to as Saigon: its official name until the war with the US and China.

Things to do:

• Learn at the War Remnants Museum
• Shop and eat at tBen Thanh Market
• Visit the various art galleries
• Get immersed in the Saigon food scene
• Sip coffee at the cafe apartment building
• Admire the colonial Opera House, Central Post Office and City Hall
• Take day trip to the Mekong Delta during a guided tour from Saigon
• Take a half-day trip to the Củ Chi Tunnels used by Vietnamese soldiers during the war.

Getting to Saigon from Hoi An: While I don’t recommend flying internally for environmental reasons, if you just have 2 weeks in Vietnam, you’ll probably need to. A flight between Hoi An and Saigon takes just an hour. If you travel by bus, you’re in for a long night bus departing in Hoi An then a night’s stopover in Nha Trang , a city in Vietnam that I don’t especially love. Basically, it will take you two days!

Read next: 

• A complete Saigon itinerary
• All the best foods to try in Saigon

Where to stay in Saigon: VY Khanh and Alleyway Hostel are best for backpackers on a budget // Little Saigon Boutique Hotel for private double rooms. Browse all Saigon hotels and Saigon hostels .

Vietnam itinerary for 1 month

My 2 week Vietnam above is designed to help you see as much of Vietnam as possible during a short trip. There’s no way you can see everything, even with 1 month in Vietnam but, if you follow this itinerary, you’ll get to see much more!

Days 1-3 – Hanoi . As above. Follow my 3 day Hanoi itinerary . Days 4-6 – Ha Long Bay. As above. With an extra night in Ha Long, you can take a cruise with 1 night on the boat and 1 night on Cat Ba Island. Days 7-9 – Sapa. As above. Catch a night bus from Hanoi the night you return from Ha Long Bay or spend night 6 in Hanoi and travel to Sapa the next day.

Days 10-11 – Ninh Binh.  See below. Days 12-14 – Phong Nha National Park . See below Days 15-17 – Hue . See below Day 18 – the Hai Van Pass . See below. Days 19-21 – Hoi An . As above. Day 22 – Nha Trang . See below. Days 23-25 – Da Lat . See below. Days 26-27 – Mui Ne . See below. Days 27-30 – Saigon . As above.

More details on the extra stops

If you have more than 2 weeks in Vietnam, here are more details on the places you’ll have time for. Even if you’re following my 2 week Vietnam itinerary above, use the following stops as alternative suggestions. Swap them if they sound more appealing than the destinations I mentioned earlier in this guide.

Somewhere I’d recommend including in an extended Vietnam itinerary is Ninh Binh, a town and countryside region a couple of hours south of Hanoi. ‘Ha Long Bay on land’ is the perfect stop if the craggy, rock formations of Ha Long leave you feeling inspired. Ninh Binh town isn’t particularly captivating so use it as a base and get stuck into the countryside.

Things to do in Ninh Binh:  Hop on a wooden boat where a local woman will row you with her feet past impressive ‘Tam Coc’ (a set of cliff formations translating as ‘three caves’), visit Bich Dong Pagoda and climb to the Mau Caves Viewpoint.

Read next: How to spend a day in Ninh Binh, Vietnam

How to visit: Book a 2.5-hour bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh to visit Ninh Binh independently. When you arrive, hire a scooter (or a scooter with driver if you’re not comfortable driving) to explore the region. If you’re short on time, take a Ninh Binh day tour from Hanoi . Where to stay in Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu Family Stay based in town (dorms for $4, private rooms for $11) // Trang An Eco Homestay based in the stunning countryside.

Phong Nha National Park

A perk of spending a month in Vietnam is getting off-the-beaten-track and discovering the vast Vietnamese countryside and warren of underground caves. While the world’s largest cave is in Phong Nha, visiting is near impossible without a team of porters, two weeks and £3,000. Luckily, there are plenty of incredible cave sites within the park you can visit with ease.

Read next: A day exploring Phong Nha National Park

Where to stay in Phong Nha: There’s a small town at the heart of the national park also called Phong Nha. Stay at Funny Monkeys Homestay ($15 a night) with beautiful river views. Getting to Phong Nha: It’s easiest to reach Phong Nha by bus as all the local companies drop on the doorstep of Phong Nha town. Unfortunately, this is at 4am if coming from Hanoi or Ninh Binh but most hostels are a minute’s walk away and will let you check in then. A train to or from Dong Hoi station is an option but gets you in a 45-minute taxi ride away from Phong Nha. Since some of the caves are far apart in the countryside, it’s best to book a caves day tour in Phong Nha town.

Hue is Vietnam’s temple capital. Explore the walled fortress, the Imperial City, largely destroyed during the War but since restored and now as majestic as its heyday. Many people visit the Citadel and leave Hue but I liked spending 2 days in Hue , touring the countryside and discovering elaborate tombs and temples. Getting to Hue: Catch a bus or train from Hanoi , Ninh Binh or Phong Nha. Where to stay in Hue: Splash out at Hue Ecolodge , a bargain at $35 a night with luxury rooms and swimming pool access. For accommodation in town, stay at Stop and Go Boutique Homestay Hue ($13 a night).

Things to do in Hue:  Tour the Citadel to see the Forbidden City and the royal gardens. Since there’s no public transport or taxis available around the countryside, hire a scooter or book a Hue day tour to visit The Royal Temple of Tu Duc, Tu Hieu Pagoda, The Tomb of Khai Dinh and Minh Mang Tomb. For a quirky adventure, break into Hue Abandoned Waterpark !

This is quite the contrast to the intricate, ancient temples of Hue. Despite high hopes for this would-be tourist attraction, it was abandoned before opening. A huge dragon statue rears above an empty aquarium, perched upon a lake once teeming with live crocodiles. The ‘official’ line is that you can’t go inside the Abandoned Waterpark. However, savvy backpackers make their way inside daily, bribing the security guard or trekking through the undergrowth from the road.

The Hai Van Pass

When travelling between Hue and Hoi An, don’t take the bus: it travels through an underground tunnel meaning you’ll miss the view. To add some coastal beauty to your Vietnam itinerary, take the train or, better yet, drive the Hai Van Pass by car, scooter or Jeep!

While I often associate Vietnam with misty rice terraces and mountainous cliffs, I rarely think of sweeping coastal views and empty beaches. But that’s exactly what you get when driving the Hai Van Pass! Stops to make if coming from Hue to Hoi An include An Bang Cemetery, Dam Cau Hai (Salt Lake), Cảnh Dương Bay and Lập An Lagoon. You can end the day by staying overnight in Da Nang, one of the fastest-growing cities in Vietnam or continue further to quaint but touristic Hoi An. Many companies will transfer your luggage if you’re travelling by scooter.

Nha Trang isn’t my favourite place in Vietnam but it’s a necessary base if travelling down the coast from Hoi An. Most backpackers arrive in the AM after a night bus from Hoi An and a bit of beach time is exactly what they need.  Things to do: Head to one of the famous mud spas surroundings Nha Trang; the most famous two are Thap Ba and 100 Egg Spa. Visit Po Nagar Cham temple or relax on the beach. Getting to Nha Trang: Catch a night bus from Hoi An .

Read next:  How to survive a trip to Nha Trang

This green countryside paradise is a popular spot for an extended Vietnam itinerary. Set up in the mountains, the climate’s cool and the pace of life is slow. Things to do: Take a countryside tour to see coffee plantations and waterfalls. Canyoning is also a popular activity for daredevils. Don’t miss the Crazy House , a modern art residence that may remind you of Gaudi’s work or Alice in Wonderland! Spend one day in Da Lat to explore the countryside and another if you want to go canyoning. Getting there: Catch a four-hour train or bus from Nha Trang .

Mui Ne is a beach town most famous for sandboarding, though surfing and water sports can be practised, too. Whilst travelling down the coast Mui Ne is a good spot for sporty types, as well as those in need of relaxation. Things to do: Set an early alarm to beat the heat and see sunrise over the dunes (or sunset if you’re not an early bird). The other option is sand sports. Getting there: A four-hour bus from Nha Trang or a five-hour bus from Ho Chi Minh .

Spend a day or night on the Mekong Delta

Even during a short trip, there’s time for a day trip to the Mekong from Saigon . If you have more time, why not spend two days and a night? As well as seeing how locals use the Mekong for transportation, you’ll visit some of Asia’s largest floating markets. Here, shops on stilts and merchants in boats dole out fruit, souvenirs and more. Take a 2 day trip or better, one including Cai Rang floating village .

Those travelling to Cambodia next can take a tour from Saigon to Phnom Penh , stopping along the way! I had a great time doing this a few years ago.

Beach lover? For a 2 week Vietnam itinerary, visit either Hanoi or Saigon, spend 3 days in Hoi An, then finish at either of the following beaches:

Phu Quoc Island

In Phu Quoc, you get that real holiday vibe: white sand, boat trips and massages on the beach that won’t set you back more than 90,000 VND (£3). However, I’ve heard it’s starting to get much more touristic with lots of golf resorts popping up…

Things to do: Lie on the beach or visit Dinh Cau Night Market for fresh seafood. You’ll find everything from lobsters to crabs and even sea snails if you’re feeling adventurous.

Getting there: Flights from Ho Chi Minh start at $20 each way and take under an hour. Tag it onto the end of this itinerary for 1 month in Vietnam. Where to stay in Phu Quoc: For beautiful river views and $10 rooms, stay at The River Mouth .

If you’re looking for a tourist beach break, don’t go to Quy Nhon ! This beach town is a real hidden gem in Vietnam. There aren’t any big hotels or tour companies around and you won’t find it included in many Vietnam itineraries. For that reason, it’s one of my favourite places for escaping the crowds and seeing local life. Come 5pm, the whole town seems to come down to the beach to relax and play football. It’s a special spot! Getting to Quy Nhon: It’s a 7-hour bus from Hoi An in Central Vietnam. Where to stay in Quy Nhon: Nhon Hai Beach Hostel .

What to eat in Vietnam

Vietnamese food is fresh and flavoursome, making it one of my all-time favourite cuisines. Eat at street stalls and you’ll never pay for than £1-2 for dinner: Pho: You’ll have heard of this one already unless you’ve been living under a rock. It’s essentially noodle soup but thanks to a flavoursome broth, lime, chilli, coriander and tasty ‘bo’ (beef) or ‘ga’ (chicken), it’s always a winner. Bun cha: Slow-cooked pork balls in a salty broth with a side of rice noodles to dip and a serving of ‘nem’ (fried spring rolls). This dish is from Hanoi so is usually not found down south.

Fresh spring rolls: Also known as ‘summer rolls’ these are sheets of rice paper rolled with fresh ingredients. Pork, shrimp, rice noodles, lettuce and cucumber make them so healthy and tasty.

Banh mi: Freshly baked baguettes stuffed with a choice of ingredients. Eat them with meat pate, pork floss (nicer than it sounds), cucumber and more. Don’t miss my guide to the best banh mi in Vietnam !

Com tam: Pork glazed with a sweet and sticky sauce, served with rice and a gooey fried egg. I can’t get enough.

Vietnamese beer is probably the cheapest in the world. If you order the bia hoi (‘fresh beer’ which is brewed on-site) pints begin in the vicinity of 10p. Read my food guides to Hanoi , Hoi An , Saigon and my egg coffee Hanoi guide!

Browse Hanoi street food tours . They’re so much fun!

What’s the best season to visit Vietnam?

Spring (March-May) is generally the best time to visit Vietnam because temperatures aren’t too high and there’s not much rain. Summer (June-August) can be VERY hot and rainy but I have travelled Vietnam this time myself and it’s possible as long as you stay protected. The north of Vietnam experiences cold winters from December to February. Hoi An often experiences flooding from September-December.

Customs, language and safety

Vietnam isn’t a place where you’ll need to be especially conservative so shorts and t-shirts will do fine apart from when you visit temples. Here you should cover your knees and shoulders.

The Vietnamese are so incredibly kind and friendly. Around Hanoi coffee shops and lakefront, you’re bound to pick up some new friends keen to practice their English. Chat with them – they’ll love it, and probably offer to show you around.

Violent crime is basically nonexistent. But bag and phone snatchings in Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi occasionally occur. In Hoi An, be careful of the unofficial motorbike drivers who hang around the bars at night – get a licensed taxi instead.

Learn some Vietnamese phrases

Cam Un  – thank you Chao ban – hello Tam biet – goodbye.

Thanks for reading my Vietnam itinerary!

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VIETNAM QUICK LINKS Getting around by air – it’s easy to get between cities by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Stay connected with E-sim data plans that don’t require delivery or collection; just span the QR code. In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Lonely Planet Vietnam . For Vietnam buses and trains , I use 12GoAsia . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide as they have a huge range of affordable tours. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

7 thoughts on “ Ultimate Vietnam Itinerary For 2 Weeks – 1 Month! ”

Love this!! Thanks for reading and commenting

This may have been the most useful guide to Vietnam I have found, loved all the recommendations. I am looking to travel here later in the year so thank you for all the tips!

Hi Becky, thanks so much for commenting, it means a lot to hear you enjoyed it! Enjoy Vietnam 🙂

Hi there 🙂 we are spending a month in Vietnam, but we are starting in Saigon as we are coming from Cambodia would you suggest doing it backwards? x

Hi Ellena, yes you can definitely just reverse it. Enjoy!

This is so helpful. I wouldn’t have more than two weeks, so really appreciate your suggestions for an itinerary! Everyone I know who has been to Vietnam loves it.

Hi Barbara, yes I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love it! Have an amazing trip!

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One-month vietnam itinerary.

Some travelers plan to drop by Vietnam just for a short time but get mesmerized and decide to linger for months. Discover the charms of Vietnam as manifested in the North, South and Central regions with our guide to one-month Vietnam itinerary!

In this ultimate plan we give you essential know-before-you-go tips, pick out the best places to go, the best things to do and the best food to eat in each region of the country. This is the information you need before setting off to explore the beauty and diversity of our country! And what’s more, an exclusive table of the estimated cost for your entire one-month journey.

Get a suitable travel insurance plan before your travel:

Pre-departure Essentials for One Month in Vietnam

The biggest question is probably ‘when is the best time to visit Vietnam?’, and our advice is simple: Avoid the rainy months with frequent showers, between June and August, which is also the summer months in Vietnam. In South Vietnam, rainy season even lasts until September and October. So head for Vietnam in the dry months from November to March, and you are safe to see Vietnam in beautiful sunshine, although it can be quite hot and humid though around April and May in the south. Learn more about monsoon season in Vietnam and its effect .

Overview of One-Month Vietnam Itinerary

Basically, we pick out the 10 best cities and provinces in Vietnam and recommend a 3-day stay in each place. Following this itinerary, you spend 10 days in each of the three main divisions of Vietnam, definitely bracing yourself for a comprehensive experience of the Vietnamese ways! 

Day 1-2 Phu Quoc Island

Day 3-5 Mekong Delta

Day 6-8 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Day 9-11 Dalat and Tay Nguyen (Central Highlands)

Day 12-13 Nha Trang

Day 14-15 Da Nang

Day 16-18 Hoi An

Day 19-21 Hue

Day 22-23 Ninh Binh

Day 24 Halong

Day 25-27 Hanoi

Day 28-30 Sapa

Estimated costs of 30 days per person (budget, moderate, luxury)

Breakdown Of One-month Vietnam Itinerary (South to North)

See how you can get to each city below, what to do once you’re there and must-eats of the place.

In this plan, we’ll start from an island in the south, then moving on to the central lands, and end up in Northern Vietnam. 

Vietnam – the winsome letter-S-shaped country

The first 10 days in South Vietnam

Phu Quoc Island

If you’re flying into Phu Quoc, you will land in the largest and most pristine island in Vietnam. In administration terms, it is a district of Kien Giang Province, a big western province in Mekong Delta.

Transportation and road networks in Phu Quoc are pretty straightforward. The three main roads you can follow to visit various attractions are Tran Hung Dao, 30/4, and Hung Vuong. Follow Tran Hung Dao street, the street of hotels and resorts, to get to the Coi Nguon Gallery, pearl galleries, and Phu Quoc Prison. Sample Phu Quoc cuisines at affordable restaurants alongside 30/4 street. 30/4 is also the way to the famous Ham Ninh fishing village and Bai Vong pier. Lastly, hit Hung Vuong street to reach the Khu Tuong pepper plantation, and Phu Quoc National Park. 

Learn more about traveling in Phu Quoc .

Things to eat: goi ca trich (herring salad and rolls), seafood, Phu Quoc noodles.

Mekong Delta

From Phu Quoc, you can catch the Superdong Express Boat to Rach Gia Pier in Kien Giang Province (at 7 AM and 1 PM every day, 2.5-hour ride), then get a private bus to take you to Can Tho, the most lively city in the Mekong Delta, and book an early boat to visit the Cai Rang floating market.

The real deal to seeing inhabited stilt houses and exploring the Southern Vietnamese countryside lifestyle at its utmost. This humongous region is a must if you’re seeking authentic cultural insights.

In our previous post about the  Mekong Delta , we introduced to you local fruits gardens in Tien Giang and Ben Tre provinces, Cai Rang Floating Market, and Tay Do Night Market in Can Tho city. Here we would love to recommend Tram Chim Little Egret Fields and Thap Muoi Lotus Lake in Dong Thap province. In these two places, you’ll get to see a varied ecosystem with diverse kinds of birds in the lowlands and get to ride a boat to handpick lotus flowers.

Eating is the thing in Mekong Delta. Street eats establishments are more than ubiquitous and insanely affordable. Scrumptious bowls of bun mam, bun ca, bun moc (Vietnamese noodles with different broth textures and toppings), and fresh spring rolls with grilled freshwater fish. Simply mouthwatering.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

The next destination worthy of being on your Vietnam itinerary is Ho Chi Minh City. I t’s super easy and cheap to get to Ho Chi Minh City from provinces in the Mekong Delta. There are frequent buses that go back and forth from the West Bus Station in Ho Chi Minh City to many provinces and cities connecting the southwest of Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh City is the land of friendly and open-minded migrants. That is not to say the land has no history or indigenous people, quite the opposite, in fact. But the immigrant proportion is big because it is a land of great potential, of robust developments, and countless opportunities.

Ho Chi Minh City

Arriving in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll be drawn to the fast pace of life and the strong entrepreneurship spirits here, as showcased in busy streets, frequent gridlocks regardless of the time and weather, and numerous up-all-night restaurants and businesses. In addition to being a widely known street food paradise, Ho Chi Minh City caters to all international cravings with gourmet restaurants across its multiple districts.

Described in textbooks as the City of Heroes, Ho Chi Minh City is indeed the witness to many of Vietnam’s most chaotic and victorious historical events. Pay a visit to the War Remnants Museum to gain a glimpse into the unsettling past of South Vietnam. In fact, we have written a Ho Chi Minh City 3-day travel guide on our blog, so check it out!

The next 10 days in Central Vietnam

Dalat and Central Highlands

Leaving the hustle city, we come to Dalat and Central Highlands , a little mountain getaway in this one-month Vietnam itinerary. From the East Bus Station in Ho Chi Minh City, book a night ticket on a bus because it’s a 7-hour ride to reach Da Lat and begin your journey in the Central Highlands. There are alternative options. You can visit the backpacker’s district on Pham Ngu Lao Street in District 1 of the city, and book an overnight sleeping bus. There are many bus operators and travel agencies here.

Regular urban residents, especially those in the southern provinces, would all say they desire a getaway to the chilly breezy city of Dalat, which provides an ideal break from the typical stifling and stuffy weather of where they live.

Check out the best camera for your Vietnam trip

Situated at an altitude of 1,500 m, Dalat is home to verdant pine forests, beautiful lakes, waterfalls and flower gardens. Due to this diversity of natural scenes, Dalat is known by so many romantic names like the dreamers’ city, the flowery city, the city of love or the city of eternal spring. It is also a city of many no’s – no traffic lights, no cyclos (or cycle taxis, or ‘xich lo’ in Vietnamese), no air conditioners, and…no staying up too late. Not boring at all but in fact a healthy, fascinating way of life.

Attractions: Datanla Waterfalls, Strawberry Home Gardens, Dalat Flower Garden, Xuan Huong Lake, Truc Lam Temple by cable car, Lake of Sighs, Hang Nga Guesthouse, and Art Gallery, Bao Dai’s Palace, and Dalat Central Night Market.

Must-try dishes: Banh can (mini-pancakes), banh trang nuong (Vietnamese grilled pizzas), soybean milk, banh uot ga (steamed rice noodles with chicken) and grilled pork.

See more of  what to do in Da Lat .

A slight detour from Da Lat, if you feel fit enough for a 5-hour ride on a bus, head to Buon Don Tourism Complex in Buon Ma Thuot City, Dak Lak Province, to mingle with the ethnic community there and visit the busy local markets. Grilled pork or chicken served with bamboo-cooked rice (com lam) or lots of travelers also praise Dak Lak red noodles.

From Da Lat, you can reach Nha Trang in 4 hours. There are several bus lines, but one of the most popular choices is Phuong Trang or FUTA Bus Lines.

Although there is a myriad of beach cities along the central coast, Nha Trang is the first name locals would think of when it comes to a coastal city. Its beaches are pristine with developed tourism services and surrounded by state-of-the-art resorts. Besides natural sights, cultural and religious sites are also a must-visit here, while fish noodles and grilled beef are the real deal for foodies.

Nha Trang Beach

Attractions: Institute of Oceanography, Alexandre Yersin Museum, Long Son Pagoda, Po Nagar Cham Towers, Christ the King Cathedral, Monkeys on Hon Lao Island, Yang Bay Waterfall, Van Phong Bay, Dien Khanh Citadel, Doc Let Beach, and Nha Trang Night Market. (Spare the Vinpearl Land if it’s not economical for your budget). Activities: parasailing, kayaking, snorkeling and taking mud baths.

Must-try dishes: Bun ca (fish noodles and fried fish sausages), nem nuong (grilled sausage wraps), bun sua (jellyfish noodles), grilled sea urchins with green onions and peanuts, and banh trang xoai (mango rice paper).

See details of traveling in Nha Trang .

Da Nang is the city with an incredible appeal to local and foreign tourists alike. It’s quite a long drive from Nha Trang to Da Nang, which takes about 11 hours, so you should spend the night on a sleeping bus to save traveling time and hotel costs. Depending on your bus route, going up north from Nha Trang, you will reach Hoi An first before getting to Da Nang. If you decide to fly domestically from Nha Trang, you will be arriving at Da Nang first, then you can book a transfer south to Hoi An. 

Attractions in Da Nang: Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son), My Khe Beach, Asia Park (quite a costly admission: VND 300,000), Museum of Cham Sculpture (mind-blowing experience guaranteed), Fifth Military Zone Museum of Danang, and Dragon Bridge at night. What to eat: Rice paper rolls with steamed pork slices and herbs, seafood and Be Thui (Veal).

See our detailed Da Nang guide .

Hoi An is about 30 km away from Da Nang. You can easily reach this famous ancient town in Vietnam on a 1-hour-drive bus from the beautiful coastal city.

People in the country are drawn to Hoi An by its charming mystique. The mystique is felt in the air as one placidly strolls along the Old Quarter and the lantern streets, mesmerized by quaint houses and lanterns’ various sizes, shapes, and colors.

Attractions: Hoi An Ancient Town, Japanese Covered Bridge, Fujian Assembly Hall, Chaozhou Assembly Hall/ Trieu Chau Assembly Hall, Hoi An Museum of History and Culture, Hoi An Arts and Crafts Manufacturing Workshop, Thanh Hoa Pottery Village, Tra Que Vegetable Village, and Cu Lao Cham Islands.

Must-try dishes: Cao Lau – Hoi An noodles served with meat, herbs and little broth (less broth than the regular noodle dishes of Vietnam). The name is interesting because it essentially means ‘high floor’, which refers to the dish’s birth to serve the elite who lived on high floors. Today it is served in high-floor-based restaurants too, to preserve the original spirits. Beside Cao Lau, we also have My Quang, banh bao, banh vac (white rose cakes), and banh dap – hen xao (smashed rice crackers and baby basket clams)

Get tickets to travel from Da Nang to Hoi An:

Read more on our Hoi An Travel Guide .

Another popular and charming destination on Central Coast you should put on your one-month Vietnam itinerary is Hue. This former capital is 2 hours away from Da Nang.

Hue is the soul of Central Vietnam. The city boasts great royal buildings of the 19th century, ancient tombs, top-notch culinary treats, and hard-working, passionate individuals.

Attractions: Royal buildings, royal tombs, Thien Mu Pagoda, Huong River – Trang Tien Bridge, Hue Night Street, Dong Ba Market, Bach Ma National Park.

See details of things to do in Hue .

Royal Citadel in Hue

Must-try dishes: Bun Bo Hue – the famous treat to all Vietnamese which owes its birth to the solemn city of Hue (a sneak peek: it’s spicier in Hue than in other places). Com hen (baby basket clams rice) – Taste the eclectic mix of flavor in one bowl, spicy, a bit sweet, and sour, triggering all your taste buds. Banh beo, banh bot loc (water fern cakes and various kinds of Hue dumplings) – another ubiquitous street food that originates from the old capital of the 19th century. Sample the taste of crispy pork skin and seasoned dried shrimp nestling inside a base of rice flour and tapioca flour—mouth-watering and reasonable price.

The last 10 days in North Vietnam

From Hue, you need to hop on a 1-hour domestic flight to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi , and from there it would be easier to travel to different places in North Vietnam. The first destination you may want to visit is Ninh Binh , which is 2 hours away from Hanoi.

Brace yourself for the most unbelievable natural wonders! Hardly any other place in Vietnam can rival Ninh Binh regarding natural blessings. Gasp at the magnanimity of what was the film set of Kong: Skull Island, Trang An eco-tourism complex with placid valleys, aquamarine lakes, exotic caves, and calming valleys. On top of that, definitely visit Bai Dinh Religious and Cultural Complex right in the vicinity to behold the biggest pagoda in Vietnam, nestling among pleasant greenery at an impressive altitude.

Trang An in Ninh Binh

Read more of the best day trips from Hanoi through a  guide to Trang An and Bai Dinh .

But that is not all because Ninh Binh is also a land of history. On your second day in Ninh Binh, drop by Hoa Lu the old capital to see Vietnamese royal architecture of the tenth century, and buy a ticket (around US$3) to enter the most famous national park in Vietnam, Cuc Phuong National Park.

The cuisine of this province is no joke either. Savory sticky rice with ant eggs (cleaned and marinated) and fried shallots. Bizarre but mouthwatering. Rice noodle soup with paddy field eels (‘mien luon’ in Vietnamese, a very popular dish with adapted versions in different regions). Or delectable mountain goat meat hot pot, Vietnamese salad with freshwater fish, and paddy field crabs sauteed with fresh herbs. All sounds scrumptious already. And what’s more, the prices are good! An easy US$2.5 for an average meal outside the tourism center.

To get to Halong Bay from Ninh Binh, you can go by bus going back to Hanoi and then take another bus to Halong Bay because few buses are going straight from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay. From Hanoi, you can book day trips to Halong Bay or if budget allows, you can spend an overnight on a boat surrounded by archipelagoes in the Gulf of Tonkin.

See details of how to get to Halong Bay and guide of Halong Bay attractions .

Magnificent caves and sights to visit in Halong Bay: Thien Cung Cave, Sung Sot Cave, Trong Mai Islet, Yen Tu Monuments, and Landscape Complex.

Activities: Kayaking and Rock Climbing.

Food to eat: Steamed sticky rice with savory fried squid sausage, peanut worm, mangrove horseshoe crabs and Gat Gu rolls (one-of-a-kind!)

From Halong, getting back to Hanoi by bus will take you about 4 hours. It is time for you to explore the beauty of the capital city of Vietnam, the second-crowdest city after Ho Chi Minh City.

Hanoi is where the norms and conventions of Vietnam can still be seen most vividly in daily life, as opposed to a little more westernized Ho Chi Minh City. Throughout Vietnam’s history, the earliest residents of the country migrated from their homeland in the north to establish a new life in the south, a perceivably easier land to live in, nature-wise. When they relocated, a slew of conventions was done away with for them to lean towards a more laid-back lifestyle not bound by strict rules like dining etiquette or even pretentious politeness. Oh, don’t be scared though. The people are very nice and courteous, especially to guests; they are only strict to their family members so that the sons and daughters of the family know how to behave themselves when among elders.

Hanoi is known for its time-honored landmarks, many of which are representations of Vietnam’s early economic and educational developments. Such are the Chua Mot Cot (One-pillar pagoda), Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam (Literature Temple, which was, in fact, the first school ever in Vietnam), and Ngoc Son Temple. These are situated near the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, or Guom Lake, or Sword Lake. This lake is famous nationwide for the historical tale that goes with it, that long ago a king of Vietnam returned his potent magical sword to its original owner, the Turtle God that governs the lake. The Old Quarter (Pho co Ha Noi) is another spot you shouldn’t miss. Walk around there and see how the quaint architecture of Vietnamese residential houses has been preserved until today.

On top of that, the capital is also widely recognized for its distinctive cuisine, starting with creative and tantalizing dishes of noodles in diverse forms. The world-famous pho (beef noodle soup) is just one of them. Other must-try delicacies are bun cha (rice vermicelli with grilled meatballs, fresh herbs, and sweet-sour fish sauce), bun thang (rice vermicelli with boiled chicken and sliced cold cuts), and pho cuon (noodle rolls stuffed with minced meat and fresh herbs; there are also colorful noodle rolls, although they are much more expensive than regular beef noodle soup, around US$4 compared to US$2).

Bun thang in Hanoi

Spend 2 days 1 night in the inner city seeing the sights and sampling the eats above, but save the third day for the outskirts. The way we see it, Hanoi has more appealing traditional acts to offer to a newcomer in the suburbs than its modernized inner city. Go to Bat Trang Ceramics Village in Gia Lam District, along the Red River, to admire exquisite porcelain products in myriad designs and colors. There’s also a chance to experience making one ceramic item yourself with guidance from a ceramic virtuoso! Or, travel 60 km to Ba Vi National Park and enjoy the soothing serenity among spectacular natural feats.

Alternative plan: See our detailed 3-day guide in Hanoi .

From Hanoi, you can get to Sapa, your last destination in Vietnam itinerary, either by a bus going straight to the city (7 hours) or an overnight train (we recommend the sleeping cabin) stopping by Lao Cai Station (8 hours) and another drive to Sapa City (1 hour 15 minutes). It’s quite a long journey, so remember to book a night ticket that saves you a night’s cost at a hotel.

Why Sapa? For the terraced rice fields and the idiosyncratic ethnic cultures, we would say. Like the case of most ethnic minorities , festivals and special rituals are a frequent occurrence here. Imagine how exciting it would be to partake in a dancing night or a grand wedding ceremony in the chilly weather of Sapa. Join the fun whenever the opportunity presents itself.

For Sapa, it is pleasing enough to have a breath of fresh air. Hike or trek along the peaceful paths across spectacular staircase paddy rice fields. Drop by a local market and try on colorful brocade garments. Sample diverse local eats including grilled pork and fish, fresh vegetables boiled or made into salads, and Sapa special black chicken.

More details on attractions in Sapa .

For your outbound flight, the only way is to go back to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi since there is no international airport in Sapa or Lao Cai. You’ll need to travel for 1 hour to get to the airport from downtown Hanoi .

Summary of One-month Vietnam Itinerary (South to North)

Estimated trip costs per person per month

Learn more about  ways to save your money in Vietnam .

Find hotels that suit your one-month itinerary budget: 

More Vietnam Travel Guides

Saigon attractions: the war remnants museum, water puppet theatres in vietnam, ecotourism in vietnam: what to know and where to go, 1st time in ho chi minh city: what to do, banh beo – steamed rice water fern cake, must-see flower fields in vietnam.

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The Perfect Vietnam Itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 Weeks

• Last Updated: January 25, 2024

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam for 1, 2, or 3 weeks then you must start with this post to help plan your Vietnam itinerary. 

Vietnam has something for everyone. It’s bursting with history, delicious foods, hiking opportunities, beautiful landscapes, beaches, and of course the wonderful Vietnamese people.  

Our Vietnam itinerary guide will give you an overview of the country, with some great itinerary options depending on how long you plan to visit. 

We have something for everyone with:

• 10 days in Vietnam: Highlights Itinerary – These are the must-see places in Vietnam
• 1 week in Vietnam focusing on the North
• 1 week in Vietnam focusing on the South
• 2 weeks in Vietnam, by combining the two above
• 3 weeks in Vietnam, or longer, by adding our extended options to your itinerary.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our complete guide to travelling in Vietnam !

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Hanoi 

Day 2 and 3 – halong bay, day 4 and 5 – sapa , day 6 and 7 – hue , day 8 – hoi an, day 9 and 10 – explore saigon, and take a full or half-day tour to the cu chi tunnels or the mekong delta, tour options, da nang , day 2 and 3 – ha long bay, day 4 and 5 – sapa, day 6  – hue, day 7 – hoi an, ninh binh (near hanoi), phong nha – ke bang national park (near hue), my son (near hoi an), ba be national park (near sapa), bach ma national park (between dan nang and hue), dong ha – for dmz tour (between dong hoi and da nang), day 1 – nha trang , day 2 – dalat , day 3 – mui ne , day 4 and 5 – ho chi minh city, day 6 and 7 – phu quoc island, cu chi tunnels or the mekong delta , con dao island, cat tien national park, did you find my vietnam itinerary helpful, 1, 2, and 3-week vietnam itinerary options .

We broke this Vietnam Itinerary into three main sections. 

Simply decide how long you have, and use one of our itineraries to guide you to the top things to do in Vietnam!

10 Days in Vietnam Itinerary: Vietnam Highlights

Our 10 days in Vietnam itinerary will highlight the absolute best of North and South Vietnam – from hiking in Sapa , to sinking beer in lively Ho Chi Minh City (more commonly referred to by its former name, Saigon).

This can be the core of a longer 2 or 3-week journey by adding extension opportunities to it.

You can do this trip from North to South, or in reverse.

After flying into Hanoi, you’ll have one day to see this beautiful city, so get ready to hit the ground running. 

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and is full of beautiful architecture, culture, and unique food.  The old city is surrounded by remnants of fortified walls, and most things you will want to visit are in the Old Quarter. 

I would suggest finding a walking tour, so you can learn about the city’s history as you explore the city.

Take a stroll around the Hoàn Kiếm Lake and visit the Temple of the Jade Moutain, and stop to help the locals practice their English. 

Try the local beer called Bia hơi or fresh beer, which is brewed fresh each morning, and doesn’t contain any preservatives. 

One of the best things to do in Hanoi is to have an egg coffee while sitting at a café in Hanoi’s Train Street. 

Then get ready to get out of the way when the train rattles past, so close to you that it takes your breath away!

For dinner, don’t forget to have a regional specialty, called Bun Cha. It’s found all through the old quarter, so you won’t have to go far to find it. 

Where to stay in Hanoi: We recommend staying right in the Old Quarter.

READ MORE: Learn more about what to do in Hanoi with our Hanoi city guide .

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and is one of the most popular things to see in Vietnam.  

The stunning bay is full of thousands of limestone islands, pristine beaches, caves, and floating villages.  The Vietnamese call it The Bay of the Descending Dragons. 

One of the best ways to visit the islands is by boat. 

You can take one of the many cruises on offer from the tour operators in town, taking you from Hanoi to Halong Bay, spending a night onboard a boat, and returning you to Hanoi the following day. 

Alternatively, make your own way to Halong Bay, and arrange a boat from there. 

Halong Bay cruise options vary depending on your budget.

The cruises normally include kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, swimming, visiting floating villages, and exploring caves.

If you find the Halong Bay cruises a little out of your budget, check out this guide to Halong Bay on a budget . 

Where to stay in Ha Long Bay: Spend the first night at Halong bay, preferably on board a junk boat.  Alternatively, spend the night on Cat Ba Island . Return to Hanoi, and spend the second night there, ready to head to Sapa in the morning.

After a restful night in Hanoi after your cruise, and having enjoyed some more Bun Cha and fresh beer, it’s time to get on a bus from Hanoi to Sapa.

You can also travel by train if you prefer, but buses are the fastest and the best way to get to Sapa from Hanoi. 

Alternatively, you can hire a private car, which will get you there faster, but at considerably more expensive.

Sapa is a region in Vietnam’s northwest and is home to beautiful terraced rice fields, great trekking, and exquisite vistas. 

Sapa has some of the best trekking in Vietnam . 

You can navigate some of these hikes yourself, arrange a private guide, or organize one of the many tours, either from Hanoi or in Sapa itself. 

The most popular attraction in Sapa is the highest mountain in the region, Fan Si Pan .

But unless you take the cable car to the top, you’ll need more time in the area for this hike. 

Some of the shorter day hikes are Cat Cat, and Tả Phìn , which can be done with or without a guide.

Where to stay in Sapa: Spend two nights in Sapa.  Consider a mountain lodge for the true Sapa experience, and then hop on the bus back to Hanoi early the following day.  Then fly from Hanoi to Hue. If you would prefer not to fly, you can take an overnight train or bus from Hanoi to Hue instead, arriving in the morning of Day 7.

Hue is the old Imperial City, and is where the Nguyen Dynasty held the throne for 143 years. 

The last Emperor, Bao Dai, abdicated his throne and power passed to Ho Chi Minh.

During the American War, the North Vietnamese Army captured Hue as part of the Tet Offensive. 

Thus began a battle to regain the Imperial city by the South Vietnamese and the Americans, which lasted almost a month with thousands dead, and the city was mostly destroyed. 

After spending the previous night in Hue, or arriving in the morning by bus or train, visit the Old City with its pavilions, beautiful temples, and the Royal Palace , all protected by high walls, exquisite gates, and moats. 

Hue is also known for the tombs of the Ancient Emperors.  They are all intricate and beautiful.

But don’t miss the Tomb of Tu Duc , or a visit to Tu Hieu Pagoda , which dates back to 1843. 

One of the last things to do in Hue is to try the famous Bún Bò Huế , a local noodle dish with beef and chili oil, washed down with fresh beer. 

Where to stay in Hue: Spend another night in Hue, then head off early on Day 8 to Hoi An.  The most spectacular way is on a motorbike tour through the Hai Van Pass.  The operators will take you on the back of a motorbike, and deliver both you and your luggage to your hotel in Hoi An.

Alternatively, you can take a private car or bus.

READ MORE: Learn more about what to do in Hue with our Hue city guide .

Explore the beautiful city, and enjoy some rest and relaxation at the beach, sitting on beach chairs and drinking cold coconuts. 

The old town is simply stunning. As you walk around you’ll pass stores selling little souvenirs,  great restaurants, and lots of clothes.

Hoi An is the place to be if you want to have some clothes made.  Tailors are everywhere, and prices are affordable. 

Make sure to head out into town at night, as the city lights up with hanging lanterns, and comes alive with markets, street food, and people. 

While out and about visit the wooden Japanese Covered Bridge from the 18 th Century, and take a boat ride up the river to get a better view of the lights. 

Use Grab or take a taxi or scooter and head to the beach.  You can sit at one of the many restaurants, use their lounge chairs and stay all afternoon soaking up the sun!

Where to stay in Hoi An: Spend the night in Hoi An, and fly from nearby Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City the next morning.

READ MORE: Add these things to do in Hoi An to your itinerary !

After experiencing incredible Hoi An, it’s time for one last big effort as we reach the home stretch of our 10-day itinerary. 

Our time allows for one of two tour options, or if you have an extra day, both.

Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh, is a bustling array of buildings, people, food and scooters! 

Saigon is where a lot of ex-pats live as it offers so much variety and, like New York, the city never sleeps! 

These are your last couple of days in Vietnam, and there is plenty to see.  The Vietnam War Museum, Notre Dame (yes they have one too!), the beautiful Central Post Office, and Independence Palace are all must-see destinations while in HCMC.

One of the things to do in Ho Chi Minh City is to head to Bui Ven Walking Street , where all the action happens. 

After dark, this street is packed with people sitting at small plastic tables and chairs sinking beers, eating street food, and people-watching. 

After a few beers and some food, head back to your hotel and get some rest before your flight home.

READ MORE: Consider these 8 day trips from Ho Chi Minh City .

The Cu Chi Tunnels

Even if you’re not particularly interested in Vietnam’s war history, this is an interesting place to visit. 

There are two different locations, Ben Dinh and Ben Doc . 

Most tour companies usually head to the one closest to the city, Ben Dinh, which is also the largest. 

The Tunnels offer an interesting insight into what it was like for the people fighting in the Vietnam/American War, their living conditions, and how they used the tunnels to hide underground during the day and fight the enemy at night.  

Today you can go into some of the tunnels, which have been widened for westerners to fit in. 

You can only visit the tunnels with a guide, which is provided as part of the entry ticket or part of your tour . 

The Mekong Delta Tour

If small little tunnels aren’t your thing and you would prefer to take a pleasant boat ride down the Mekong river instead, there are half-day tours available from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta. 

Mekong Delta tours usually include exploring small canals by a sampan boat, visiting villages and islands, sampling exotic fruit and touring a coconut candy farm. Yum!

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City: For your two nights in Saigon, stay in District 1 to be right in the middle of everything, District 3 if you’d like a more relaxed stay that’s still only moments away from the action or District 4 for a real local experience.

Extension Option

If you’re able to extend your tour to 2 weeks in Vietnam, you’ll have more time for these excursions. Any 2 week Vietnam itinerary should include these!

Da Nang has lots to offer .  If you are comfortable on a scooter or motorbike, you can ride from Hue to Da Nang (before going to Hoi An), through the Hai Van Pass . 

This route used to be a little dangerous due to all the cars and trucks using the pass.

But since they have built the new freeway and tunnel there is very little traffic, making it a very enjoyable and incredibly scenic ride.  

The best way to do this is by motorbike tour from Hue, to either Da Nang or to Hoi An, or in reverse. 

Setting out from Da Nang, Ba Na Hills is a scooter ride away.  You may recognize the bridge seemingly held up by two large hands.

Between Da Nang and Hoi An lies Marble Mountain , and to the east of Da Nang there’s a large Buddhist temple complex and pagoda called Chua Linh Ung .

If you have longer in Vietnam and would like to explore more of this beautiful country, combine our North and South options below to create a 2 weeks in Vietnam itinerary. 

2 Week Vietnam Itinerary – 1 Week in the North

Start your 2 weeks in Vietnam in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city, with beautiful architecture, culture, and food. 

While in Hanoi don’t forget to try egg coffee, fresh beer (Bia hơi), and especially the regional dish of Hanoi, Bun Cha .   (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Hanoi: Spend the night in Hanoi.  We recommend staying right in the Old Quarter.

Ha Long Bay, with its beautiful limestone islands, is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. 

It’s a must-see while in Vietnam, with an overnight boat tour to the islands, and other fun activities like SUPing, kayaking, and exploring caves. 

The easiest way to see Ha Long Bay is to organize a tour from Hanoi . (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Ha Long Bay: Spend the first night at Ha Long Bay, preferably on board a junk boat.  Alternatively, spend the night on Cat Ba Island .  Return to Hanoi, and spend the second night there, ready to head to Sapa in the morning.

Think of beautiful rice terraces set high up in the mountains, trekking, and staying in mountain lodges. 

Sapa is located in the northwest part of the country, and best seen by a two-day tour from Hanoi. (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Sapa: Spend two nights in Sapa.  Consider a mountain lodge for the true Sapa experience, and then hop on the bus back to Hanoi early the following day.  Then fly from Hanoi to Hue.

If you would prefer not to fly, you can take an overnight train or bus from Hanoi to Hue instead, arriving in the morning of Day 7.

The old imperial city still has many secrets to uncover. 

Hidden behind towering walls and large gates, you can explore where the last Emperor ruled from before abdicating his rule in favor of Ho Chi Minh.

This is where the North Vietnamese overtook the city, sparking a battle that lasted for almost a month in what was known as the Tet Offensive. (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Hue: Spend the night in town.  Leave your bags at your hotel while you explore the city the next morning, then head to Hoi An after lunch. 

The most spectacular way is on a motorbike tour through the Hai Van Pass .  The operators will take you on the back of a motorbike, and deliver both you and your luggage to your hotel in Hoi An.

Head to the beach during the day and relax on one of the many lounge chairs offered by the restaurants lining the foreshore of Central Vietnam.

In the evening enjoy the magical old town that comes alive at night with lights, markets, food, and more!  (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Hoi An: Spend the night in Hoi An, and fly from nearby Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City, or head to Nha Trang to link up with the Southern Vietnam Itinerary below.

READ MORE: Add these things to do in Hoi An to your 2 week Vietnam itinerary!

Extension Options

If you want more time in the north during your 2 week Vietnam itinerary, add on these trips such as Ninh Binh and some cool national parks.

Considered the inland version of Halong Bay, Ninh Binh is best seen by boat, on a pushbike, or scooter. 

We spent two full days in Ninh Binh and enjoyed a pushbike ride in the surrounding area.

We then hired a scooter in Ninh Binh and set out to see more of the beautiful lush hills, taking a boat ride through Tam Coc, and visiting pagodas.

You can easily book an awesome 2-day, 1-night tour of Ninh Binh from Hanoi if you’re not comfortable riding a scooter in the crazy Vietnam traffic.

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is home to over 300 caves and grottoes.  This UNESCO World Heritage Site protects the oldest karst system in Vietnam. 

It comprises of a precious ecosystem, limestone forest, and the world’s largest cave, Son Doong . 

The park offers eco-tourism, mountain climbing, trekking, flora and fauna, and caving. 

Some of this can be done independently, but tours are often the best option to get the most out of your time. 

The My Son ruins are another important UNESCO World Heritage site in central Vietnam. 

This temple complex was built by the Champas during their rule, and was influenced by Hinduism. 

The ruins of the brick temples and sculptures are often likened to Angkor Wat in Cambodia or Bagan in Myanmar.

Book a tour of My Son to make the most of your experience.

Ba Be Lake is the centre of the National Park, and of the Ba Be Lake legend. 

People believe that the lake was formed by an enchantress, who cursed the people of the surrounding area for not showing compassion to her when she asked for help.

Legends aside, Ba Be Lake offers a wide range of activities, from trekking, kayaking, motor-biking, waterfalls, caves, and the natural beauty and diversity of the area. 

The highest point of Bach Ma National Park is the 1450m high mountain of the same name. 

The park is known for its biodiversity, with lots of birds, flora, mammals, and primates.

The government finally protected the area in 1962, after the area was greatly damaged due to the use of agent orange during the Vietnam War.

The area is now safe for people to explore and is best seen with a tour guide . 

You can hike the Five Lakes Cascade Trail taking in the waterfalls, visit the monastery, and hike the Pheasant Trail .  

A visit to the demilitarized zone (DMZ), is a great one-day outing for history buffs. 

The DMZ area was the dividing line between North and South Vietnam during the war, and as a result, saw heavy fighting. 

The tour explains the extent of the fighting in this area, and the importance of the location in the Vietnam War. 

2 Week Vietnam Itinerary – 1 Week in the South

Next on your 2 weeks in Vietnam, spend 1 week in the south of Vietnam. You could easily spend 2 weeks in Vietnam in just the north or the south, but you can also spread out your time between both areas.

Our Southern itinerary begins in Nha Trang.  Either fly there from Saigon or Hanoi, or take a bus down from Hoi An if you’re continuing on from our Northern Itinerary.

Nha Trang is the most famous seaside resort in Vietnam and is known for its white-sand beaches, coastal islands, and clear waters with abundant marine life, making it perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling. 

The town itself also offers interesting cultural sites close by, and places where you can pamper yourself with a mud-bath, or enjoy a seafood dinner. 

Where to stay in Nha Trang: Spend a night in Nha Trang, and take a bus or private car to Dalat the next morning.

After a relaxing time on the beach, it’s time to get some more culture in during your 2 week Vietnam itinerary! 

Dalat is heavily influenced by the colonial period from the French occupation, as the French built their holiday homes here to take advantage of the temperate weather.

With beautiful buildings, gardens, interesting architecture, coffee and tea plantation tours, waterfalls, mountain biking, hiking, and canyoning , you don’t want to miss out on this city!

Where to stay in Dalat: Spend the night in Dalat, and take a bus or private car to Mui Ne the next morning.

READ MORE: Learn more about what to do in Dalat with our Dalat city guide .

Three main things are offered in this beautiful resort destination; relaxation, watersports, and sand dunes.

Mui Ne beach is dotted with resorts, hotels, and hostels, and is a great place to just sit and enjoy your surroundings. 

Although Mui Ne is more than just the beach, this area is set up for tourists and has one main street of shops, cafes, bars, and shopping.

Being a beach town, watersports are a big thing here, and just about everything is on offer from kitesurfing to parasailing. 

The Mui Ne sand dunes are popular, and a spectacular sight. 

There are two locations, the smaller, closer, red sand dunes, and the white sand dunes about 26km from town. 

Tours are available for both locations and you can also hire dune buggies, or go sledding! 

Where to stay in Mui Ne: Spend a night in Mui Ne, then shake the sand from your belongings and take a bus or the train to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) the next morning.

There’s so much to see and experience in this historic city, including day tours to some pretty important locations, that you’ll need two days .  

On the first day, you’ll head out into Ho Chi Minh City.  It has some great cultural sites, like the Vietnam War Museum, Independence Palace, Notre Dame, and it also boasts some pretty great nightlife too.  

For the second day, we suggest you head out of the city on a day tour.  There are two great options: The Chu Chi Tunnels, or a trip to the Mekong Delta. (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City: For your two nights in Saigon, stay in District 1 to be right in the middle of everything, District 3 if you’d like a more relaxed stay that’s still only moments away from the action or District 4 for a real local experience. Fly to Phu Quoc Island on Day 6.

Phu Quoc is a small island off the coast of Cambodia, lined with white sand beaches and palm trees.  

There are many resorts along the southwest coast providing you with ample opportunity for some relaxation time, while you swim, and eat your last fill of tasty Vietnamese food.   

Phu Quoc island is home to mountains, tropical rainforest, hiking and wildlife, all within its National Park. 

Lots of tours are available to explore the island which offers snorkelling as well, or you can hire a scooter and set off by yourself.

Where to stay in Phu Quoc Island: Spend two relaxing nights on Phu Quoc Island, then fly back to Saigon to catch your onward flight!

If you have more time to spend during your 2 weeks in Vietnam, take the ferry to the mainland, and continue overland to some of the extension options listed below, or to Cambodia.

If you have more time for your 2 week Vietnam itinerary, or you want to further explore one area rather than hopping around, here are some ideas!

Depending on what you did in 7 days for our Southern Vietnam Itinerary, if you have time you might like to see the other option best explored out of Ho Chi Minh City.  (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

During the French occupation, and later the Saigon regime, this island was used to house political prisoners and prisoners that were considered especially dangerous.

Aside from its harrowing past, the island is known for its natural beauty with over 80% of the island being a National Park. 

These days the island is frequented for its spectacular snorkelling and diving, with abundant coral reefs, beautiful beaches, and hidden lagoons.   

Can Tho is the de facto capital of the delta region and an unassuming city full of life. 

Most of the activity happens around the pier where you can enjoy great food and cold beer. 

Boat rides are available to show you more of the city and surrounding area, and visit some early-morning markets. 

If you’d like a little break from the tourists and are looking to just relax and hang out with the locals, Qui Nhon is the place to come . 

Unspoiled by tourism, this sleepy town has squeaky white sand beaches, snorkeling, swimming, temples, and museums. 

Cat Tien National Park is comprised of two sections Cat Loc, and Nam Cat Tien, the former being the most visited of the two. 

The river by Nam Cat Tien houses an important Hindu archaeological site and temple, where a large number of artifacts have been uncovered and are now in the Dalat museum. 

The national park has spectacular flora and fauna and trekking.

READ MORE: 33 amazing things to do in Vietnam !

Vietnam is a large and diverse country, with a great deal to offer the traveller who goes in with an open mind and heart. 

While we’ve listed what we feel are the main highlights, there is much more to be explored when you visit Vietnam.

Friendly people really make Vietnam a special place to visit.

The itineraries listed above are a bare minimum if you need to get the most out of a short amount of time. 

While doable, if possible it would be a much more relaxing trip if you could pad it out by adding a few days to your Vietnam itinerary, and slow down a little!

We hope you have a wonderful time there!

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Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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1 year travelling – backpacking in southeast asia highlights, caves, zip lines and deep mud in phong nha, getting a chinese visa in hanoi, vietnam, scuba diving in nha trang – is it worth it, 1 thought on “the perfect vietnam itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 weeks”.

Hi, I was wondering how much the 10 day option costs roughly in AUD? Cheers!

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Vietnam One Month Itinerary: North to South in 30 Days

Heading to Vietnam? Well, you’re in for a TREAT! A little overwhelmed at what route to choose and where to stop? Well, after spending 30 days in Vietnam, we’re here to give you a complete Vietnam one month itinerary. We’ll have you ready to travel north to south in 30 days.

Jump Ahead To:

Obtaining Your Vietnam Visa

First things first, your Visa. Vietnam’s visa process was the most work we had to do for any of our Visas while we were backpacking through Southeast Asia. What you’ll need is…

• 2 passport size pictures
• A passport that has been valid for 6 months
• Visa application
• Approval letter from an agency
• $25 USD visa fee

We worked with Dao’s Travel Agency to get our Visas approval letter squared away. Dao’s Travel Agency was great. They were very responsive, and we had absolutely no issues with the paperwork they supplied us.

The paperwork they provided us was our approval letter, which we had to pay $13 USD for, and our visa application.

We entered the country from Laos through Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport.

Upon arrival, we had our approval letter printed , our visa application printed and filled out , our valid passport, 2 passport size pictures and $25 USD for the Visa fee.

We presented all items to the immigration officer and we were stamped in no problem. “Welcome to Vietnam!”

From Hanoi’s airport you can catch an Uber to your accommodation. Before heading out of the airport, make a pit stop at the ATM to withdrawal some Vietnamese Dong. You’ll be needing that!

30 Day North To South Vietnam Itinerary 

Depending on your travel plans, you can approach our itinerary two ways , North to South or South to North .

For us, we did North to South. However, for those doing it opposite of what we did, no worries! You can just take our itinerary and reverse it 🙂

Let’s get to it – 30 days in Vietnam

• Day 1: Arrival in Vietnam (Hanoi)
• Day 2 – 3: Hanoi
• Day 4: Hanoi to Mai Chau
• Day 5: Mai Chau / Pu Luong
• Day 6: Mai Chau to Hanoi
• Day 7: Hanoi to Cat Ba Island (Ha Long Bay)
• Day 8 – 9: Cat Ba / Ha Long Bay
• A long travel day, but we so enjoyed it. We left Ha Long Bay and arrive in Tom Coc. We had a 4-5 hour spat of time in Tam Coc (Ninh Bhin) to sightsee and take a river cruise. It was the perfect amount of time to see the place before hoping on the night bus to Phong Nha.
• Day 11 – 12: Phong Nha
• Day 13:  Phong Nha to Hue
• Day 14: Hue
• Make sure you rent scooters and drive yourself to Hoi An. Such an amazing experience and so worth it!
• Day 16 – 18: Hoi An
• Day 19: Hoi An to Dalat
• Day 20 – 22: Dalat
• Day 23: Dalat to Mui Ne
• Day 24 – 26: Mui Ne
• Day 27: Mui Ne to Siagon
• Day 28: Siagon
• Day 29: Siagon to Can Tho
• Day 30: Can Tho
• Day 31: Leave Vietnam from Can Tho (Bus to Cambodia)

Alternative Options / Call Outs To Our 30 Day Vietnam Itinerary

Fly out vs. overland travel .

The only note we’d like to add is if you’re flying out of Saigon or Hanoi, you’ll need to alter our above route a bit. You have two options.

1) Cut out the Mekong Delta (Can Tho)

2) If you have your heart set on the Mekong, trim a few days off other cities to make it work.

In our opinion, we’d skip the Mekong Delta and keep the other days in order to make your flight out of the country.

Wait, Where’s Sapa?

Ha, yes, we did not go to Sapa. We were back and forth with this for weeks leading up to Vietnam. We read so many blogs and eventually decided against it when we discovered Mau Chau and Pu Luong Nature Reserve .

Mau Chau and Pu Luong are stunning and will give for sure give you your Sapa fix. Plus, they’re way closer to Hanoi!

We were completely content with skipping Sapa after we were in Mau Chau and Pu Long. We took a leap of faith on a recommendation and it did not disappoint.

Would We Do Anything Different?

Maybe only one….

If we were to redo it, we’d cut a day from Dalat and spend another day in Hue. Oh, and if you can spend more time in Vietnam, DO IT.

We wish we could have spent an additional 2 weeks here doing the motorbike loops up North and make laying on the beach on the southern island of Phu Quac. But hey, guess we’ll just have to go back 🙂

Regardless how long or what route you take in Vietnam, you’re in for an amazing ride.

WANT MORE INFORMATION ON VIETNAM?!

8 Experiences Not To Miss In Vietnam

The Best Vietnamese Cooking Class in Hanoi

Your Guide To Kayaking In Lan Ha Bay

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Happy Travels,

– Lauren & Jesse Stuart (The Stüs)

We're Lauren & Jesse, the creators behind Wandering Stus! We've been traveling for decades, exploring and experiencing the very best this world has to offer. Whether we're roadtripping the U.S. in our camper, hiking through National Parks, or jet-setting to different countries around the globe, we write detailed travel guides to help you plan one amazing (and unforgettable) adventure!

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