Having explored Vietnam extensively, I've distilled countless journeys into this definitive 2-week itinerary. It's designed for efficiency, authenticity, and minimal stress, built on both triumphs and lessons learned from past travels.
- For a quick overview of your 2-week Vietnam adventure, here's the essential day-by-day breakdown, covering key activities, estimated costs, and crucial tips. Click any point for more detail:
- - Day 1-3: Hanoi – Northern Charm & Sensory Overload. Fly into Noi Bai (HAN), use Grab to the Old Quarter. Explore on foot, visit Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Temple of Literature. Don't miss Pho Bat Dan, Bun Cha Huong Lien, and Cafe Giang's Egg Coffee. Stay in the Old Quarter: Hanoi City Backpackers Hostel ($8-12) or La Siesta Classic Ma May ($70-120). A food tour is highly recommended.
- - Day 4-5: Ha Long Bay – Limestone Majesty. Book a 2-day/1-night cruise from Hanoi (approx. $150-$300+). Choose reputable operators like Aspira Cruises or Paradise Cruises. Enjoy kayaking, cave visits (Sung Sot Cave), and stunning scenery. Pack swimwear and sun protection (packing list).
- - Day 6-7: Hue – Imperial History. Travel from Ha Long/Hanoi by overnight train ($40-60) or flight ($50-100). Explore the Imperial City (200k VND) and take a dragon boat on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda. A half-day tour to the royal tombs is recommended. Taste Bun Bo Hue. Book a homestay ($20-50).
- - Day 8-9: Hoi An – Lanterns & Tailors. Crucially, experience the Hai Van Pass via Easy Rider ($50-70) or private car ($60-90). Explore the UNESCO Ancient Town (120k VND ticket), get custom clothes at Bebe Tailor, take a cooking class ($30-50), and relax at An Bang Beach. Stay near Ancient Town: Allegro Hoi An ($80-150) or Laluna Hoi An Riverside Hotel & Spa ($60-100).
- - Day 10-11: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Southern Buzz & History. Fly from Da Nang to HCMC ($40-90). Visit the War Remnants Museum (40k VND) and Reunification Palace (40k VND). Explore Ben Thanh Market and Bui Vien Walking Street. Enjoy Com Tam, Banh Xeo, and Vietnamese iced coffee. A motorbike food tour ($35-60) is a must. Stay in District 1: Bandlive Backpacker Hostel ($5-15) or Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint Hotel ($80-150).
- - Day 12-13: Mekong Delta – River Life. Opt for a 2-day/1-night tour ($70-150+) to experience the Cai Rang Floating Market early morning, or a 1-day trip ($25-50) for a quicker overview.
- - Day 14: Departure from HCMC. Allow ample time to reach Tan Son Nhat (SGN) due to traffic.
- - Essential Tips: Get an e-visa well in advance. Cash is essential (VND), use ATMs for withdrawals (expect fees). Get a local SIM card immediately. Use Grab for city transport. Be aware of petty theft and bargain politely.
Your Perfect 2-Week Vietnam Journey
This itinerary is a proven path through Vietnam, refined from countless personal trips. We’ll journey from North to South, allowing the country's diverse landscapes and cultures to unfold naturally.
Day 1-3: Hanoi – A Vibrant Welcome
Landing in Hanoi is an immediate sensory immersion – the humid air, symphony of horns, and tantalizing street food aromas. It’s the perfect, exhilarating starting point for your Vietnam 2-week itinerary.
Airport to City: Smart Arrival
From Noi Bai International (HAN) to the Old Quarter, expect to pay around 300,000-400,000 VND ($12-16 USD). My top tip: download the Grab app before you land. It guarantees transparent pricing and helps avoid common taxi scams. Once in the Old Quarter, walking is your best friend, or a cheap and fun Grab Bike for longer distances.
Hanoi Stays: Old Quarter Immersion
The Old Quarter is the place to be – lively, walkable, and authentic. After checking into your pre-booked accommodation, immediately step out and immerse yourself.
- Budget: Hanoi City Backpackers Hostel ($8-12/dorm) is great for meeting fellow travelers.
- Mid-range: For more comfort, I often choose one of the La Siesta Classic Ma May locations ($70-120). Excellent service and surprisingly quiet for the central location.
- Splurge: The Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi ($250+) offers historic luxury.
Hanoi Highlights: Walk and Discover
Spend your first full day simply wandering the Old Quarter. Get lost in its charming chaos, discover hidden temples, and observe daily life. The Hoan Kiem Lake is stunning, especially at sunrise when locals practice tai chi. Visit the serene Temple of Literature (30k VND / $1.20) and consider a quick stop at the imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (check limited opening hours).
Hanoi Cuisine: Street Food Heaven
Hanoi’s food scene is unparalleled. Embrace street food!
- Pho: My favorite is at Pho Bat Dan (40k-60k VND), a classic, no-frills experience.
- Bun Cha: Try this grilled pork with vermicelli at Bun Cha Huong Lien (40k-70k VND), famously visited by Obama.
- Egg Coffee: A unique, creamy dessert-like coffee. Head to its birthplace, Cafe Giang (30k-40k VND).
- Banh Mi: Grab a fresh Vietnamese sandwich from any street vendor (20k-30k VND).
- Overnight Train: A classic experience, the 12-14 hour soft sleeper from Hanoi costs $40-60. Book in advance.
- Flight: More efficient, a flight to Hue (HUI) is just 1 hour 15 minutes and costs $50-100.
- Near Ancient Town: Allegro Hoi An – Little Luxury Hotel & Spa ($80-150) offers excellent convenience.
- Quieter Options: For more tranquility, consider Laluna Hoi An Riverside Hotel & Spa ($60-100) or homestays outside the town, often offering free bike rentals.
- Budget: Bandlive Backpacker Hostel ($10-15/dorm).
- Mid-range: Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint Hotel ($80-150). For couples, check my Saigon Hotels Under $50 guide.
- 1-Day Tour: A quicker option to My Tho or Ben Tre ($25-50), offering a glimpse of local workshops and boat rides.
- 2-Day/1-Night Tour: Highly recommended to reach Can Tho and experience the vibrant Cai Rang Floating Market early in the morning ($70-150+).
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). Roughly 1 USD ≈ 24,000-25,000 VND.
- ATMs: Widely available in cities (Vietcombank, Agribank). Expect withdrawal limits (~2-3 million VND) and fees. Withdraw maximum amounts to save on fees.
- Cash: Essential for street vendors and local markets. Always carry small denominations.
- Flights: Most efficient for long journeys.
- Trains: Good for scenic routes or overnight travel (soft sleeper berths recommended).
- Grab: Your go-to for taxis and motorbikes in cities (transparent pricing, safer).
- Motorbike Rental: Only for experienced riders with an International Driving Permit and appropriate insurance.
- Petty Theft: Be aware of phone/bag snatching, especially from motorbikes. Keep valuables secure.
- Taxis: Use Grab or reputable companies (Mai Linh, Vinasun).
- Bargaining: Expected in markets and for informal services. Be polite but firm.
- Traffic: Cross streets slowly and predictably; motorbikes will flow around you.
- Lightweight, breathable clothing.
- Rain gear (light jacket/umbrella).
- Comfortable walking shoes/sandals.
- Swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
- Insect repellent (crucial!).
- Copies of passport/visa.
- Water: Only drink bottled water. Be cautious with ice.
- Street Food: Embrace it! Look for busy stalls with high turnover. Carry hand sanitizer.
- Basic Phrases: "Xin chào" (Hello), "Cảm ơn" (Thank you), "Không, cảm ơn" (No, thank you), "Ngon quá!" (Delicious!) – locals appreciate the effort.
Pro Tip: Eat where locals queue. For an organized introduction, a Hanoi street food tour ($25-40) is an excellent idea.
Day 4-5: Ha Long Bay – The Iconic Karsts
Ha Long Bay is Vietnam’s natural masterpiece. It’s a must-see for any Vietnam itinerary.
Choosing Your Cruise: Don't Skimp
For a memorable Ha Long Bay experience, invest in a good 2-day/1-night cruise. Avoid the cheapest options for safety and comfort. Mid-range cruises ($150-$300+ per person) from reputable operators like Aspira Cruises or Paradise Cruises include transport from Hanoi, meals, and activities like kayaking and cave exploration (Sung Sot Cave).
Life on Board & What to Pack
Expect stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset. Activities typically include kayaking and visiting caves. Enjoy the digital detox, as Wi-Fi can be spotty. Remember to pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Your cabin on the boat serves as your accommodation.
Day 6-7: Hue – Imperial Grandeur
From the natural wonders of Ha Long, we shift to the rich history of Hue, Vietnam's former imperial capital. It’s a slower, more serene contrast to Hanoi, crucial for a comprehensive Vietnam itinerary.
Getting to Hue: Train or Flight
Exploring Hue: Citadel & River
Dedicate 3-4 hours to the impressive Imperial City (200k VND / $8). Then, take a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda (150k-250k VND for private boat), combining it with visits to royal tombs like Tu Duc or Khai Dinh. A half-day tour ($20-40) is a good option.
Hue Cuisine & Accommodation
Savor Bun Bo Hue (40k-60k VND) and local rice cakes. Stay in a hotel or homestay near the Perfume River ($20-50/night) for easy access to sights and food.
Day 8-9: Hoi An – Lanterns, Tailors, and Tranquility
Hoi An is pure charm, a UNESCO-listed gem that will captivate you. It’s an indispensable part of your Vietnam itinerary.
Journey to Hoi An: The Hai Van Pass
Do not miss the Hai Van Pass! The best way to experience this stunning coastal road is via an Easy Rider motorbike tour ($50-70) or a private car ($60-90) from Hue.
Hoi An Exploration: Day and Night
Explore the Ancient Town with a 120k VND ($5) ticket, which grants access to heritage sites including the Japanese Covered Bridge. The town is truly magical at night when lanterns illuminate the streets. Consider getting custom clothing made at a tailor like Bebe Tailor. Indulge in a cooking class ($30-50) or a lantern-making class ($10-20). For relaxation, head to An Bang Beach.
Hoi An Accommodation
Day 10-11: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Southern Energy
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is a sprawling, high-energy metropolis, a distinct contrast to the North. This bustling hub is vital for your Vietnam itinerary.
Getting to HCMC & Where to Stay
Fly from Da Nang (DAD) to HCMC (SGN) (1 hr 20 min, $40-90). Use Grab to District 1 (150k-250k VND). Stay in District 1 for convenience:
HCMC Sights & Sounds
Immerse yourself in history at the profound War Remnants Museum (40k VND) and the historic Reunification Palace (40k VND). Experience the vibrant chaos of Ben Thanh Market (remember to bargain!) and the energetic nightlife of Bui Vien Walking Street.
HCMC Food & Coffee
Saigon's food scene is incredible. Try Com Tam (broken rice), Banh Xeo (savory pancake), and refreshing Vietnamese iced coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da). For the ultimate food adventure, a motorbike food tour ($55-60) is my top recommendation.
Day 12-13: Mekong Delta – Riverine Life
Explore Vietnam's "rice bowl," the vast and tranquil Mekong Delta. It offers a peaceful contrast to the cities and is a beautiful addition to your Vietnam itinerary.
Mekong Delta Tours: Day Trip vs. Overnight
Delta Experiences & Essentials
Expect boat rides through canals, visits to floating markets, and local workshops (coconut candy, rice paper, bee farms). It's a slower, more relaxed pace. Pack light clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and essential insect repellent for evenings.
Day 14: Departure from HCMC
Depending on your flight, you might have time for some last-minute shopping or a final Vietnamese meal. Head to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) for your departure, ensuring you allow plenty of time for unpredictable HCMC traffic (at least 3 hours for international flights).
Vietnam Travel Essentials: A Practical Guide
Here’s crucial day-to-day advice to ensure a smooth Vietnam itinerary.
Visas: Plan Ahead
Most nationalities need a visa. Apply for an e-visa ($25 for 30 days) through the official government website well in advance. Always check current regulations for your nationality as rules can change frequently.
Money: Cash is Key
Connectivity: Get a SIM Card
Purchase a local e-SIM or physical SIM (Viettel, Mobifone) upon arrival (150k-250k VND / $6-10). It's crucial for navigation (Grab, Google Maps) and communication.
Transportation: Fly Long Distances, Grab in Cities
Safety: Be Street Smart
Packing Essentials
Eating Smart & Basic Phrases
Final Thoughts on Your Vietnam Adventure
This Vietnam 2-week itinerary is ambitious but rewards you with a true sense of the country. You'll experience history, incredible food, breathtaking scenery, and Vietnam's unique, vibrant energy.
My best advice: don't over-plan every moment. Allow for spontaneity. Some of the most memorable experiences come from simply wandering and embracing the unexpected. Vietnam is a sensory delight – loud, beautiful, a little chaotic, and endlessly fascinating.
Go with an open mind, be patient, and immerse yourself in the journey. You're set for an unforgettable adventure. And yes, you'll probably get hooked on egg coffee.
What part of this adventure excites you most?
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