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How Long To Spend In Vietnam? Best Vietnam Itinerary, Travel Guide And Tips

Vietnam is a famous destination known for its rich cuisine, unique culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Vietnam has so much to offer, from the mountain villages in the North to the crystal-clear beaches in the Central region, and the vibrant floating markets of the South. You can immerse yourself in the unique cultural atmosphere, enjoy delicious local specialties, and meet friendly people. That’s why a common question among travelers planning their trip to Vietnam is: "How many days in Vietnam is enough?" So, let’s discover useful information about Vietnam itineraries to fully experience this beautiful country.

I. How many days in Vietnam are enough?

First, to plan a Vietnam trip, you need to know some geographical features of Vietnam and its main attractions. What to visit in Vietnam? Typically, visitors explore the country from north to south or vice versa, passing through the northern region, home to the capital city Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and famous destinations in the northern mountains such as Sapa and Ha Giang. Then, they move through the central coastal region to visit cities like Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An. Finally, they head to the south, where Vietnam’s busiest city, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta provinces are located.

So, how many days are ideal for Vietnam? It depends on your itinerary and preferences. If you want to visit the key cities and major attractions of Vietnam, a 2-week Vietnam itinerary is ideal. If you want to dive deeper into cultural experiences, such as visiting traditional craft villages, trying farming activities, and learning about the daily life of Vietnamese people, consider spending about 3 weeks in Vietnam for a memorable experience.

What if you only have a limited vacation time, from 5 to 7 days? Is 7 days enough to visit Vietnam? Absolutely! If you have 7 days in Vietnam, besides exploring famous cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Ha Long, you can discover the unique culture of a specific region. For instance, you might explore the mountainous areas in northwest Vietnam or the Mekong Delta with its distinctive water-based culture.

II. What is the best itinerary for Vietnam?

1. 7-day Vietnam itinerary

How many days in Vietnam is enough? A 7-day Vietnam trip allows you to visit famous destinations while also experiencing the unique cultural features of the Vietnamese people.

Day 1 & 2 – Explore the ancient capital of Vietnam: Hanoi

During your 1-week Vietnam itinerary, you can spend the first two days discovering the ancient charm of Hanoi. A walking tour around Hanoi’s Old Quarter will not only lead you to iconic landmarks such as St. Joseph’s Cathedral and the Hanoi Opera House but also immerse you in the vibrant daily life of the locals. Don’t forget to enjoy a cup of coffee while watching a train pass right in front of you at Hanoi Train Street, or stroll through Hang Ma Street, which becomes spectacularly decorated during festivals like Tet, Mid-Autumn, Christmas, or Halloween.

Additionally, you can visit famous historical sites to learn more about Vietnam’s history, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Vietnam Military History Museum - the most interesting things to do in Hanoi. Your Hanoi experience wouldn’t be complete without trying a bowl of authentic pho, the country’s renowned traditional dish.

You can refer to:

>>> Experience 7 days in Vietnam
>>> 2-day trip to Hanoi
>>> Top Restaurants Cafe & Bar in Hanoi

Day 3 & 4 – Discover Ha Long Bay

What to visit in Vietnam? Ha Long Bay is a must-visit destination in Vietnam. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll be captivated by its majestic natural scenery the moment you arrive. Take an overnight cruise on the bay to visit iconic islands, enjoy the sunrise over the waters, and savor fresh seafood.

Day 5, 6 & 7 – Ho Chi Minh City & Ben Tre

The last three days of your 7-day Vietnam trip will allow you to explore the unique culture of the Mekong Delta. What to do in Ben Tre? Enjoy a picturesque cruise on the Ben Tre River to discover the locals’ daily activities tied to the water, such as fishing, trading, and water transport. You’ll also experience the peaceful rural landscapes of Vietnam, including villages, vast rice fields, and lush gardens, and sample local specialties in a family setting in Ben Tre.

>>> One-day trip in Ben Tre Vietnam

After leaving the serene countryside, you’ll return to the bustling rhythm of Ho Chi Minh City, one of Vietnam’s largest cities. Don’t miss iconic sites like the Independence Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the vibrant food paradise of Ben Thanh Market, where you can savor the diverse flavors of southern Vietnamese cuisine.

To know more : Vietnam 7-Day Highlights Tour

2. 2-week Vietnam itinerary

What is the best itinerary for Vietnam? A two-week trip to Vietnam will give you a slower-paced experience and allow you to visit more destinations. With a 15-day Vietnam itinerary, you can admire natural landscapes and discover the distinct cultural features of Vietnam’s three regions: the North, the Central, and the South.

Day 1 & 2: Explore Hanoi in 2 Days

Similar to a one-week Vietnam itinerary, you can spend the first two days of your trip discovering Hanoi’s famous attractions. Choose a guesthouse or hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter for easy access to this area. The Old Quarter is also a culinary paradise where you can easily find all the traditional Vietnamese specialties such as pho, bun cha, sticky rice, and spring rolls.

>>> Top 10 Must-Try Dishes In Hanoi, Vietnam

What to do in Hanoi? In addition to historical sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the One Pillar Pagoda, you can visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, where you’ll dive into the customs and traditions of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups, offering a fascinating insight into the country’s cultural diversity.

Day 3 & 4: Explore the Northern Delta

A 15-day Vietnam itinerary offers a deeper experience of the culture and lifestyle of northern Vietnam. Beyond Hanoi, you’ll have the opportunity to visit peaceful countryside areas with vast rice fields and serene villages.

On Day 3 of your 2-week Vietnam trip, visit Mai Chau – a small village inhabited by the White Thai people, one of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities. Here, you can marvel at the terraced rice fields stretching across rolling hills and spot traditional stilt houses. You’ll also have the chance to experience local life, interact with villagers, and enjoy local delicacies in their homes.

The following day, head to Tam Coc, where you will be amazed by breathtaking landscapes featuring limestone karst mountains, lush green rice fields, and winding rivers. On the way, pass through Pu Luong and admire the impressive water wheels visible from a suspension bridge, used by locals to irrigate their terraced fields. Take a sampan ride to explore the Van Long Nature Reserve, where you might spot white monkeys and egrets.

You may be interested in:

>>> Mai Chau and Pu Luong Tour 3 Days
>>> Itinerary Mai Chau Vietnam 1 Day
>>> All things to do in Pu Luong

Day 5 & 6: Explore Halong Bay

Discovering Halong Bay is a must-do during your 14-day Vietnam itinerary. Two days in Halong are enough for a cruise around the bay, visiting famous caves, islands, and beaches, offering you a unique experience and the chance to marvel at the breathtaking natural beauty of this world-class destination.

To read more: What to do in Ha Long?

Days 7-10: Exploring the Beauty of Central Vietnam

After two days sailing on the bay, return to Hanoi to head to Hue, the starting point of your journey to explore the poetic Central Vietnam. Days 7 and 8 of the 2-week Vietnam trip give you the freedom to explore Hue, a land famous for its unique imperial architecture. What to do in Hue? Don’t miss The Imperial Citadel Of Hue and Minh Mang Tomb—historical relics that will give you a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s feudal era. Admire the Thien Mu Pagoda, stroll along Hue’s walking streets, and visit local markets to buy conical hats or local specialties as gifts for your family—one of the top things to do in Hue.

From Hue, move on to Hoi An, renowned for its enchanting ancient town. However, don’t linger too long in the old town, as Hoi An has much more to explore. If you want to explore the top places to visit in Hoi An, you can visit the Quan Cong Temple, the Fukian Assembly Hall dedicated to the goddess of fishermen and sailors, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and the Tan Ky Ancient House. Especially, when leaving the city center for Hoi An’s countryside, you can have unforgettable experiences aboard a “basket boat” floating through the Van Lang fishing village and the Bay Mau coconut forest.

To know more about:

>>> 48 Hours In Hoi An
>>> A day in Hue

Days 11-14: Ho Chi Minh City and Southern Vietnam

Similar to the 1-week Vietnam trip, this Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks also concludes in Ho Chi Minh City. Spend the last four days of your Vietnam trip exploring the rhythm of local life in Ho Chi Minh City and visiting famous landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral, Independence Palace, and the Saigon Opera House. Wander freely around local streets and markets, especially Bui Vien Walking Street and Ben Thanh Market, to better understand the daily life of the Vietnamese people - one of the top things to do during 4 days in Ho Chi Minh city.

Ben Tre is where you can fully experience the unique culture of the Mekong Delta. Here, you will not only admire the typical landscapes of southern Vietnam, such as rice fields, rivers, fishing boats, floating markets, and gardens, but also immerse yourself in the authentic life of the locals, visit traditional craft villages, and enjoy local specialties.

The river scenery, coconut forests, and fishing boats in Ben Tre – distinctive features of the riverine region in southern Vietnam.

You can refer to:

>>> 15-day Vietnam itinerary
>>> Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks with family
>>> Vietnam Trip Package Deals 14 Days

3. 3-week Vietnam itinerary

How long to spend in Vietnam? If you wish to deeply explore the unique cultural features of each region in Vietnam and experience the daily life of its people in a distinctive way, plan a Vietnam 3 week itinerary north to south. You’ll have the chance to discover everything from the rooftop of the North to the southernmost point of the country and create unforgettable memories.

You can also refer to: Vietnam Tour 21 Days

Week 1: Explore the Red River Delta

Like most journeys, you’ll start your Vietnam trip in Hanoi and then explore the surrounding northern provinces. Spend the first two days discovering the ancient beauty of Hanoi, immersing yourself in the bustling and fast-paced life of Vietnam’s capital.

What to do in Vietnam? For the next three days of your 3-week Vietnam trip, escape the urban chaos and head to the serene countryside. Take a leisurely walk through endless green fields, stay in traditional stilt houses of the White Thai ethnic group in Mai Chau, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride along the winding river that cuts through majestic mountains in Tam Coc, Ninh Binh.

End your first week in Vietnam with two days on a cruise in Halong Bay, marveling at the captivating natural scenery of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 8-10: Sapa - a must-see place during your trip to Vietnam

If you plan a 3-week Vietnam trip, don’t miss Sapa. Start your journey in Sapa with a visit to Fansipan Peak – the Roof of Indochina. At the Fansipan landmark, don’t forget to take memorable photos amidst the floating sea of clouds and explore the temples and pagodas along the path down the mountain.

What to do in Sapa? Visit Ma Tra Village – a peaceful and less touristy destination where you can experience the daily life of the H’Mong people and admire stunning terraced fields. Continue your exploration with Cat Cat Village, located about 3 km from the town center. Following a small stream, you’ll come across traditional stilt houses, souvenir shops, and picturesque mountain scenery, perfect for photography.

Visit Vietnam in 3 weeks. Take a walk from Y Linh Ho Village through Lao Chai and finish at Ta Van Village. Y Linh Ho offers pristine landscapes with endless terraced fields. In Lao Chai Ta Van, you can enjoy the tranquility and learn more about the culture of the Giay people. Ta Van Village is particularly ideal for a relaxing morning before heading back to Hanoi to continue your journey. When you arrive in Sapa, don't forget to explore the Sapa ethnic markets where you can buy unique handicrafts that are made by the indigenous people - one of the top things to do in Sapa.

To read more:

>>> 3-day journey in Sapa
>>> 5-day itinerary in Sapa

Day 11-14: Exploring Central Vietnam

Your journey in Central Vietnam begins in Hue, where you can spend Day 11 and half of Day 12 visiting historical landmarks like the Imperial Citadel, Minh Mang Tomb, and Thien Mu Pagoda. These sites offer a peaceful atmosphere and insights into Vietnam’s Nguyen Dynasty.

During your Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks, head to Hoi An, the jewel of Central Vietnam. What to do in Hoi An? Explore the ancient town, with its famous landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Fujian Assembly Hall, and Tan Ky Old House. Don’t miss the chance to try a basket boat ride in Bay Mau Coconut Forest or join farming activities at Tra Que Vegetable Village.

On Day 14, travel to Da Nang to visit the Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills, explore the Marble Mountains, and relax at My Khe Beach. Da Nang is the perfect final stop for your memorable journey through Central Vietnam.

>>> Central Vietnam Tours

Day 15-21 : The Southern Journey

The South Vietnam Tours begins in Ho Chi Minh City – the most dynamic and modern hub of Vietnam. After landing in Ho Chi Minh City, take some time to rest and recharge for the remainder of your 21-day Vietnam adventure. Explore famous landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Reunification Palace, and the Saigon Opera House. Don’t forget to visit Ben Thanh Market to enjoy street food and experience the bustling daily life of the locals.

On Day 17 of the 3-week Vietnam trip, travel to Ben Tre, known as the “land of coconuts” in the Mekong Delta. Here, you can cycle along charming village roads, visit coconut gardens, and savor fresh coconut water - top things to do in Ben Tre. Continue your journey through lush rice fields, fruit orchards, and iconic waterways of the Mekong region, then enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local specialties.

During the afternoon of Day 18 and Day 19, head to Can Tho, the heart of the Mekong Delta. What to do in Can Tho? Rise early to visit the Cai Rang floating market, where hundreds of boats gather to trade goods. Later, explore Ba Hien Garden and a traditional noodle-making workshop to discover the unique culinary culture of the region.

Spend the last two days of your Vietnam trip in Ho Chi Minh City, exploring the city’s vibrant rhythm, relaxing, shopping, or freely discovering local restaurants, museums, and parks. Conclude your unforgettable 21-day Vietnam itinerary.

III. Travel Tips for a Vietnam Tour

• The best time to visit Vietnam depends on the regions you plan to explore. For the north, the ideal months are from March to May and from September to November, with pleasant weather. The central region is best visited between January and August, while the south is comfortably explored from November to April.

• The Vietnam trip cost varies depending on the duration and level of comfort desired. For an economical trip, plan to spend around €40 per day per person, covering accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities. How many days in Vietnam are ideal? Tours lasting 2 to 3 weeks for two people can range from €500 to €5,000, depending on the services chosen.

• Vietnam transportation offers a variety of options to suit every traveler. Public transportation includes buses, trains, and domestic flights, ideal for long distances. Taxis and motorbike taxis are convenient for urban travel. For more freedom, car or scooter rentals are available, though traffic can be challenging. Bicycles and cyclo rides provide an authentic local experience, especially in tourist areas.

• When you travel to Vietnam, bring your identification documents, cash and bank cards, weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, toiletries, basic medications, sunscreen, and essential electronic devices. Avoid overpacking clothes, as local markets offer a wide range of beautiful, diverse, and affordable clothing that suits Vietnam's climate perfectly. Take advantage of this opportunity to refresh your wardrobe during your stay.

You may be interested in:

>>> Visa to enter Vietnam
>>> All things to do in Ho Chi Minh city
>>> South Vietnam Tours
>>> Central Vietnam Trip 5 Days
>>> Vietnam Packages Tours