Vietnam is a country of incredible contrasts, with bustling cities, ancient temples, stunning landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. This 16-day itinerary will take you on a journey from the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene beauty of Halong Bay, showcasing the best of what Vietnam has to offer. The best time to visit Vietnam is between November and April. The weather in Vietnam can be split by region. In Hanoi & the north, May to October is hot and humid with high rainfall; November to April is cooler and dry. In the far north, December & January can be particularly cold.
Proposed itinerary to see almost the best of Vietnam is as follows:
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City
Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport and check into your hotel.
Explore the city center, including Ben Thanh Market, the War Remnants Museum, and the Reunification Palace.
Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner.
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City
Take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.
Visit the Cao Dai Temple, a unique religious site with a blend of Buddhism, Confucianism, and Christianity.
Enjoy a cyclo ride through the city.
Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City (Mekong Delta)
Embark on a day trip to the Mekong Delta, a network of rivers and canals known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam.
Visit a floating market, explore local villages, and enjoy a boat ride through the canals.
Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.
Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City (Mui Ne)
Consider a day trip to Mui Ne, a popular beach destination known for its windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Relax on the beach, or explore the local fishing village.
Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.
Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City - Hoi An
Take a flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An, a charming coastal town known for its well-preserved ancient architecture.
Explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the Japanese Covered Bridge.
Enjoy a lantern-lit boat ride on the Thu Bon River.
Day 6: Hoi An
Take a day trip to Ba Na Hills, a mountain resort with a French colonial-style architecture and a cable car ride offering stunning views.
Visit the Linh Ung Pagoda, one of the largest Buddhist temples in Vietnam.
Return to Hoi An in the evening.
Day 7: Hoi An (My Son)
Take a day trip to My Son, a complex of Hindu temples dating back to the 4th century.
Explore the ruins and learn about the Cham civilization.
Return to Hoi An in the evening.
Day 8: Hoi An (Marble Mountains - Monkey Cave or Cham Island)
Choose between a visit to the Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone hills with caves and temples, or a boat trip to Cham Island, a popular snorkeling and diving destination.
Return to Hoi An in the evening.
Day 9: Hoi An
Relax and explore Hoi An at your own pace.
Visit local markets, try traditional Vietnamese cuisine, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
Day 10: Hoi An - Hanoi
Take a flight from Hoi An to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.
Check into your hotel and explore the Old Quarter, a vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and street vendors.
Day 11: Hanoi
Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of the Vietnamese revolutionary leader.
Explore the Temple of Literature, a historic university and one of Hanoi's most popular attractions.
Enjoy a water puppet show in the evening.
Day 12: Hanoi - Ninh Binh/Tam Coc
Take a day trip to Ninh Binh or Tam Coc, known for its stunning karst mountains and rice paddies.
Take a boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Return to Hanoi in the evening.
Day 13: Hanoi - Halong Bay
Embark on a cruise to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its thousands of limestone islands and caves.
Explore the bay by boat, visit a cave, and enjoy a seafood dinner on board.
Day 14: Halong Bay - Hanoi
Continue your cruise in Halong Bay, visiting more islands and caves.
Return to Hanoi in the afternoon.
Day 15: Hanoi
Spend your last day in Hanoi exploring the city or relaxing.
Enjoy a farewell dinner with traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
Day 16: Hanoi - back home
Depart from Hanoi for your flight back home
Conclusion
This 16-day itinerary offers a comprehensive overview of Vietnam, from the bustling cities to the tranquil countryside. With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality, Vietnam is sure to leave a lasting impression. Sure, there is much more to see, Sapa, Hue, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc island and many more. Make sure to include these into your plan, if time is not an issue for you.
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