Summary
Vietnam has developed by leaps and bounds since the war; the unified country’s major cities are now connected securely by air and train routes. Eight days in Vietnam will expose you to the country’s major cultural and entertainment destinations—follow this itinerary to fully experience Vietnam.
The itinerary covers Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) in South Vietnam, Hanoi and Ha Long Bay in North Vietnam, as well as Hue and Hoi An in Central Vietnam. The trip begins in Saigon, with the city housing Vietnam’s busiest air hub, Tan Son Nhat International Airport.
This itinerary outlines hotel options per city, covering all budgets from backpacker to luxury.
Before embarking on your journey to Vietnam, it is prudent to review the following travel basics:
- Vietnam Travel Information – covering visa requirements, currency, safety, climate, and transportation options.
- Visa for Vietnam – guidance on obtaining a Vietnam visa.
- Money in Vietnam – tips for managing your money and making the most of your spending experience.
Day 1, Morning: Cu Chi Tunnels Outside Saigon
Assuming you’ve checked into your Ho Chi Minh City hotel, you can start your exploration of the erstwhile capital of South Vietnam on your first full day.
Make arrangements with reputable tour offices to follow the day’s itinerary; however, the destinations listed below can also be experienced independently if you prefer to hire a ride to the Cu Chi Tunnels and back.
The Cu Chi Tunnels are about an hour’s drive away from the city center, leading into the jungles surrounding Ho Chi Minh City. During the Vietnam War, these tunnels served as a staging area for Viet Cong operations. Today, they act as a showcase for Vietnam’s resilience, with a museum exhibiting life during this tumultuous period.
A visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels can be managed within a morning; upon returning to the city, you can enjoy a pho lunch at one of the many noodle spots before exploring tourist attractions within District 1.
Day 1, Afternoon: City Tour of Saigon
The top tourist spots in District 1 are relatively close to each other and can be conveniently covered in one afternoon.
The War Remnants Museum displays artifacts from the Vietnam War, presenting a viewpoint heavily influenced by the Vietnamese perspective.
The Reunification Palace, formerly the residence of the President of South Vietnam, marks the site of the last battle in the war.
The Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City remains a beautiful monument from the era of French colonialism and serves as an active place of worship for local Catholics.
Across from the Cathedral lies the Saigon Central Post Office, showcasing excellent French colonial architecture and still functioning as a post office.
Don’t miss the Saigon Town Hall, a government building famous for its stunning architecture, which can be admired from outside, along with the iconic Ho Chi Minh statue present in front of the building.
For your next journey, consider flying from Saigon’s Tan Son Nhat Airport to Hanoi, Vietnam’s historic capital, either in the evening or the following morning. The route is serviced by various airlines.
Day 2: Historical Sites in the Vietnam Capital, Hanoi
Upon arriving in Hanoi, your first task is to check into your hotel. The capital offers a variety of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to budget options in the Old Quarter.
In the morning, visit the Temple of Literature, an ancient university that now serves as a museum and temple. This site is nearly a millennium old and is composed of several interconnected compounds with picturesque gates and paths leading to an ornate Buddhist temple. The Temple welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8 am to 5 pm.
Shortly after, take a taxi to Hoa Lo Prison—often called the “Hanoi Hilton”—infamous among American pilots captured during the Vietnam War.
Today, the prison features exhibits largely focusing on Vietnamese prisoners’ struggles during French colonial rule, with a limited depiction of the treatment of American POWs.
Take a moment to unwind by walking through Hoan Kiem Lake, historically significant as the site of a pivotal Vietnamese legend. The Lake is a beautiful spot to reflect on your visit.
From Hoan Kiem Lake, you can access the nearby lively bars, pubs, and entertainment options in Hanoi, further enriching your travel experience.
Day 3: Ha Long Bay
The picturesque Ha Long Bay, situated about 100 miles northwest of Hanoi, requires a long but worthwhile drive exceeding three hours.
The bay features over a thousand limestone karst outcrops and islands, renowned for their stunning vistas set against a blue sky. The bay’s shores host various ecosystems, including freshwater forest and beaches, with the largest island, Cat Ba Island, offering prominent resorts.
Recommended activities at Ha Long Bay include taking a tour on a traditional boat designed to resemble a Chinese junk. Some boats provide accommodations for unforgettable experiences amid breathtaking landscapes.
Make the most of your trip by visiting the Thien Cung Cave, a notable highlight of the area, also known as “Heaven Palace”.
Day 4: Hanoi in Ho Chi Minh’s Footsteps
On your last day in Hanoi, start early to pay your respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum located in Ba Dinh Square. This solemn site welcomes visitors all year, except during certain months when maintenance occurs.
Several monuments dedicated to Ho Chi Minh are within walking distance. Begin with the Presidential Palace, still hosting official functions, which served as his residence.
Uncle Ho preferred residing in a stilt house built in the rear gardens, which is open for visitors showcasing his personal effects.
Your next stop could be the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique structure near the Ho Chi Minh Museum that honors ancient designs lost to French colonialism.
Conclude your visit at the Ho Chi Minh Museum to delve deeper into his life through modern art and historical artifacts.
With some time left, enjoy lunch and consider shopping in the Old Quarter for silk, toys, and other souvenirs before heading to the Hanoi Train Station.
Day 5: Hue’s Imperial Relics
The sleeper train journey from Hanoi to Hue is a comfortable ride, departing at 7 pm and arriving by 9 am. If you have coordinated with your Hue hotel, a transfer will be waiting for you.
Select a cyclo or an official tour agency for visiting Hue’s historical sites. The city served as the Imperial capital of the Nguyen dynasty, which has left numerous historical sites worth exploring.
Engage in a visit to the Hue Citadel, which witnessed devastating wars but still possesses intriguing remnants of its past.
Emperors were laid to rest with grandeur in royal tombs scattered throughout the hills, with notable sites including the Minh Mang, Khai Dinh, and Tu Duc Royal Tombs accessible with transportation.
If time allows, consider visiting the Thien Mu Pagoda—”the Pagoda of the Heavenly Lady”—as your final stop in Hue.
Transport tip: While booking a tour is advisable, metered taxis and other local transport options can take you around Hue efficiently.
Day 6: Hoi An Old Town
Prior arrangements can be made through your Hue hotel to hire an open tour bus for a four-hour drive to Hoi An. Expect to arrive in Hoi An early afternoon, allowing time for lunch and to discover the town’s significant landmarks like the Japanese Bridge and Tan Ky House.
Hoi An’s Old Town is a UNESCO heritage site along the Thu Bon River, once a thriving center of commerce that preserved its historical charm through decades of conflict.
Entry to specific museums, homes, and attractions requires a ticket, which provides access to a selection of distinct sites, enriching your visit to the Old Town.
Day 7: My Son Sanctuary
Your second day in Hoi An focuses on the My Son Sanctuary, located approximately 42 miles southwest of the town. This ancient site served as the religious center of the Champa civilization from the 4th to the 15th century.
Comprising over 70 structures, My Son showcases beautiful red brick and stone buildings that once honored Hindu deities, reflecting the cultural heritage of the Champa civilization.
Due to decades of conflict, many structures were damaged, serving as a poignant reminder of the historical significance of the site.
On your way back, consider a visit to Kim Bong Village to see local artisans at work. This craft village has contributed significantly to restoring Hoi An and is a great place to purchase unique souvenirs.
Day 8: Saigon and Onward
Your Hoi An hotel can assist you in arranging transportation to Da Nang (about an hour’s drive), from where you can catch flights back to Saigon.
If time permits, consider visiting the Cao Dai Temple at Tay Ninh, an impressive site featuring multi-colored decor representing a blend of religious beliefs. If you arrive in time, you may witness the noon worship ceremony.
Otherwise, take the opportunity to explore Pham Ngu Lao one last time before your departure.
