Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City
Your journey starts out in the vibrant Saigon City, marking the beginning of your unforgettable Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary. This energetic city is a blend of historic French colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers, which makes a friendly and captivating skyline. Tan Son Nhat International Airport has our friendly staff to assist you with luggage and will take you to the premium hotel in the city center. Firstly, they will greet you and help you with your luggage.
The hustle and bustle of the city can be a bit overwhelming so it is good to start with some relaxing time to better fit in. If you are feeling well, just have a short stroll without your hotel for your first orientation of the place, and maybe you will get to see some other shops or cafes that will be of interest to us.At night, you get ready to have your first delicious meal in your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary.You will be served for dinner with the best Southern Vietnamese restaurant known for its original taste of seafood and rivers. This is a wonderful possibility to begin getting to know the traditional food of the area which is rich and varied. Southern Vietnamese food is famous for its use of fresh herbs, powerful flavors, and the balance of sweet and savory recipes. Your menu incorporates new tastes such as Banh Xeo (Vietnamese savory pancake), Goi Cuon (fresh spring rolls), and Ca Kho To (caramelized fish in a clay pot).While you taste your dish, you are able to be inside the restaurant currently has a lively atmosphere like the city—full of energy, color, and life. Subsequently, if you haven’t walked enough yet and you feel like taking a leisurely promenade to the nearby sites such as the Ben Thanh Market or Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, then maybe you would walk there illuminated in the city at night.This exciting first day sets the tone for your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural immersion.Day 2: Exploring Ho Chi Minh City on a Vintage Vespa
Riding on a Vespa is an exhilarating activity for your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary that provides the most genuine experience of Ho Chi Minh City.This 4.5-hour sightseeing adventure is a fascinating trip to the city with enough information on the rich history, different culture, and iconic locations. Besides, the travelers will get to move in and around the Vietnam War history sites such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Reunification Palace with the guiding support of tour leaders.
Leading the Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary, you will be taken to visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a true masterpiece of the metaphorical architecture that is French colonization, and the Reunification Palace, which is known as a historic site of the ending of the Vietnam War. With the wind at your back and street vendors and locals everywhere, the knowledgeable English-speaking guides will be there to tell you some intriguing stunt 30mm tales as well as reveal the history of the legends as you pass the places.Then you can go to where Cho Lon is situated, the dynamic Chinatown caters, this multi-generational place, and see the vivacious ambiance and the varied society there. You will have the opportunity to integrate with local natives here and can have various kinds of service from the market to street foods. The Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary also includes a side trip to the Central Post Office, another masterwork made by Gustave Eiffel, giving more insight into the history of the city in its colonial era.One of the main attractions of the journey is to visit the Thich Quang Duc Memorial built in honor of the Buddhist monk who burnt itself to protest against the persecution of Buddhism in 1963. This sad point leads us to make a complete picture of Vietnam’s history and the people’s indomitable spirit. During the trip, there will be several chances to take photos and record the memories of Ho Chi Minh City from some unusual points through photo stops.Day 3: Mekong Delta Adventure
The Mekong Delta is a captivating destination that is most often called the Rice Bowl of Vietnam because of its fruitful and productive land. Your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary in Mekong Delta starts with a trip to the lovely and warm towns of My Tho and Ben Tre that will remind you of the delta’s countryside beauty and dynamic culture.Morning: My Tho Exploration
Ancient My Tho will be the first stop of the day. Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary will introduce you to the sight of dense fruit orchards and lush paddy fields. There you will have the pleasure of tasting a lot of rare fruits that you would never find at the market, just picked from the trees. The exciting color combination of the fruit as well as the taste of the different fruits are so unique that you can feel the fresh atmosphere and be part of the local food production cycle of the Delta.Midday: Ben Tre’s Hidden Gems
Also, discover the beauty of Ben Tre, which is famous for producing coconuts. You will ride on the small wooden boats also called sampans on the narrow waterways. The river slowly moves, and the quiet surrounding area provides a break from the noise and crowds of the city. By way of the narrow canals under the shade of the water coconut trees, you can look into the gentle lives of the delta villagers. Next comes a treat for lunch and a show of local music through “Don Ca Tai Tu” This is the only type of Vietnamese traditional music characterized by the complicated melodies and profound verses that reflect the beautiful cultural heritage of the delta.
Afternoon: Island Exploration
Make sure you step out on the right foot after Dragons, Unicorns, and Turtles Island hopping which you have already visited and finally opt for an expedition to Phoenix. Each of the islets has in its way an individual touch and they are bound up in the prominent and olden local mythology and tradition. The presence and relevance of the ancient islands to the culture and history of the place virtually set them apart from other pieces of land. Moreover, the locals have maintained their traditions by making such items as wood carvings that require skill and are done in an intricate manner. In addition to the crafts, when you are on the islands you will see the local craftsmen bus another generation with their delicate handicrafts which they’ve remained on for many years standing as marks of the rich cultural heritage of the delta.Late Afternoon: Cultural Immersion and Local Delicacies
Consider the Mekong Delta as the chef of Asia and a journey without enjoying the local flavors is like a pool without water. Have a classic meal with local dishes such as fresh local river fish, shrimp from the sea, and tropical fruits for your lunch. The tastes get heightened even more with the herbs and spices added, your mouth will remember the experience in the Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary.Evening: Sampan Ride and Village Visit
After sunset and the culmination of daily activities, don’t miss a blissful moment for a sampan sail on the narrow canals around the nearby villages. The water coconut trees serve as an umbrella in the water canals; they fill the space and provide shade, contributing to the peaceful ambiance of the setting. You can see local people making rice paper, coconut candy, and mat knitting. Moreover, you will also have the chance to taste the prepared coconut candy with the residents; a delicious and chewy meal which is particular to this area.Day 4: Evening Street Food Tour in Hoi An
Your next Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary starts with a flight from the coolest Vietnam city to Da Nang, followed by a quick transfer to the beautiful city of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is famous for preserving its ancient town, which is turn characterized by narrow streets, charming lanterns, and exquisite architecture. The town’s unique blend of various cultures and historical influences can be wittiness by the different designs that have taken after the Chinese, Japanese, and French styles.
At night, dive into a street food tour to make your taste buds travel through Hoi An that you will remember all your life. To commence the night, you may first want to go to the night market where the air is tinged with the smell of cooking street food. Maybe your first stand is a local seller of the famous Vietnamese Banh Mi sandwich filled with a variety of meat, vegetables, and herbs, all put between two pieces of a crispy crusty baguette.Then eat the regional delicacy Cao Lau- a bowl of thick, chewy noodles, tender slices of pork, fresh herbs, and crunchy croutons that sink into the savory broth. The dish, local to Hoi An, is created by dipping it in water from a Cham ancient well, which brings out a different authentic flavor than the top brands do.In order to have a very special and unforgettable evening, the idea of enduring the rain and peacefully sailing the Hoai River embraces magic in people’s lives. You throw the lanterns into the water, as they are part of a tradition that is believed to bring love and fulfillment of one’s wishes. The illumination of hundreds of lanterns as they float away creates a sensational feeling.Day 5: Hoi An Lantern Making Village and Cam Thanh Village
Morning: Hoi An Lantern Making Village
Start the day off on the right note and have a go at Hoi An Lantern Making Village, the place where the old hand would meet the cultural heritage of the area. Upon arrival, friendly craftsmen/women will be on hand to meet and greet you. They will detail the history of the lanterns and why it is an adopted custom of the Hoi An city. You will have a chance to learn about the different steps in lamp making, including selecting the bamboo frame to which the cloth is sewn.Take part in the project that allows you to develop your own lantern that would be a great addition to the house. This participatory form of learning not only helps you to realize the labor of love that goes into the work but also brings you closer to the cultural essence of that locale.
Afternoon: Cam Thanh Village
After a successful morning, go to Cam Thanh Village, which is a town that is famous for its photogenic water coconut palm forest. On one hand, the village is so calm that it forms a striking contrast to the city life. You can feel the peacefulness of the water and the trees’ lush green surrounding you.Take a further step for its basket boat ride to the forest and accompanied by the villagers you will be able to get a taste of the bustling downtown area. Residents of that area will show you what life looks like to them and their fishing style. If your adventure would be the aforementioned crab fishing tour, you could undercover a new aspect of your visit. The Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary is accompanied by the beauty of nature and the tranquility of the surroundings all of which, captivate you.Evening: Hoi An Ancient Town
Finish off the day by touring the lively Hoi An Ancient Town. As the suns go down, the town lights up with the traditional red lanterns dangling from every corner. Wandering into the busy fair that is filled with crafts and local food items will be a treat for you. Such as handcrafts and mouthwatering street food, but there are more.The place features a number of heritage shops, and street stalls, as well as the unique flavor of Hoi An that makes its cultural mosaic. So, perform an easy walk inside the illuminated streets, as the Thu Bon River banks entirely get a new look when colorful dances on this stream. This last Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary night at the Hoi An Ancient Town is really memorable with all its beautiful visual effects of the night and the lovely atmosphere that makes the city vibrant.
Day 6: Hue Cyclo Tour
Hue is renowned for its complex royal architecture, which served as the political, cultural, and religious center of the Nguyen Dynasty. In addition, the city is well-known for its one-of-a-kind food, historical tourist spots, and the serene atmosphere of its nature. Consequently, this cyclo tour offers an immersive way to experience Hue’s rich history and cultural heritage for your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary.
Morning: Transfer to Hue
Begin your day with a transfer to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, rich in history and culture. The Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary journey will take you through scenic landscapes, offering a glimpse of Vietnam’s natural beauty.
Upon arrival in Hue, you will meet your cyclo driver. The cyclo, a traditional Vietnamese rickshaw, provides a leisurely way to explore the city’s hidden gems. First, visit Tinh Tam Lake, a tranquil spot that was once a recreational site for the emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty. Here, you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and the beautiful lotus flowers in bloom.
Next, head towards the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This sprawling complex was the political, cultural, and religious center of the Nguyen Dynasty. Begin your exploration at the Flag Tower, an iconic structure that stands proudly at the entrance. Then, proceed to the Ngo Mon Gate, the main entrance to the Imperial City, known for its grand architecture and historical significance. Here, you can learn about the various ceremonies and events that took place.
Afternoon: Exploring Historical Sites
Afterward, visit the Nine Holy Cannons, which symbolize the power and military strength of the Nguyen Dynasty. These cannons are displayed near the entrance and are an important part of Hue’s heritage. Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant, savoring Hue’s renowned cuisine, which includes dishes like Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and Banh Khoai (Hue-style pancakes). Following lunch, continue your exploration with a visit to Thai Hoa Palace, also known as the Palace of Supreme Harmony. This majestic hall was used for official receptions and important court ceremonies. Make your way to the Forbidden Purple City, the former living quarters of the Nguyen emperors and their families. Even though a great amount of it was ruined due to the constant wars that used to reign in these lands, it still provides considerable insight into the lifestyle of the royal people in the past.
Late Afternoon: Hue Museum of Royal Fine Arts
Conclude your historical Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary with a visit to the Hue Museum of Royal Fine Arts, located within the Long An Palace. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including royal garments, ceramics, and intricately designed furniture, providing deeper insight into the artistic and cultural achievements of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Evening: Reflection and Relaxation
Consider a leisurely stroll along the Perfume River or a traditional Hue massage to unwind.
Day 7: Hanoi City Tour
Take a short flight to Hanoi and tour the entire city to get a better understanding of the city and its history. Step off at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum as your first destination in the city, where you can, with the permission adoring public, make a stop by and pay tribute to the great leader of Vietnam.Then, go to the One Pillar Pagoda, a magnificent Buddhist temple that was built during the year 1049. It has a unique architectural design that resembles a lotus flower. Head to the Temple of Literature, the oldest institution in Vietnam, which besides being a wonderful place to continue, brings you back to the past when you can touch the paper and ink that heroes and wise men of the past created and scholars to write texts on. It is also a perfect illustration of greenery in housing by the designers.
Thereafter, enjoy a captivating promenade over the Hoan Kiem Lake, a very pellucid center in the urban nucleus. Apart from this, you may also go to Ngoc Son Temple, which is located in the lake on an insignificant island, and exarch the cultural heritage it gives you. Externalize your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary by looking at the French colonial buildings in Hanoi, which is evidence of their colonized past. Through this quest, you will have a glimpse of Hanoi’s traditions and the main attractions of the city in a short timeDay 8: Full-Day Tour of Hanoi
Morning: Museum of Ethnology
Start your day off with a trip to the Museum of Ethnology. What is given in this museum is a full story of the 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam, and thus they expose all of their unique cultures and traditions. You can see the ethnic groups’ costumes and tools, as well as the explanation of their history and way of life in the museum.It is a great way of getting to the local ethnic groups as many of them are represented in the form of traditional houses you will see in the long adventurous along the museum. The exhibits of this place present traditional houses from different ethnic groups as well as their architectural styles and lifestyles vividly.Afternoon: Cyclo Tour of the Old Quarter
Right after you dine, you can take the entertaining cyclo tour around the Old Quarter of Hanoi for this Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary. Whose narrow roads are named after the types of products generally sold there, for example, Hang Bac (Silver Street) and Hang Gai (Silk Street). Get a bird’s eye view of the vibrant street life and the classical buildings. Imagine several people walking around the place and feeling free to buy some goods in a few dozen stores and stalls (from traditional handicrafts to modern goods. of your choosing.
Evening: Water Puppet Show
Finish your day on a colorful note with a captivating water puppet show. This very old technique, having its origin in the rice paddies of the Red River Delta 1000 years ago, started this funny kind of show. Each puppet is manipulated by a skilled puppeteer who is standing waist-deep in water. It is puppet shows such as Vietnamese tales or even just daily life that these people act on. A set of pieces of live music performed on traditional instruments is played in support, whose presence makes the performance much more lively and absorbing. It is the most wonderful way in your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary to experience Vietnamese culture and how Hanoi ends your day.
This one-day tour immerses you in Hanoi’s deep history and its cultural legacy making for unforgettable moments and telling about the many different traditions in Vietnam. Including this day in your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary ensures a comprehensive experience of the country’s rich cultural heritage. The diversity of activities and sights on this day makes it a standout highlight in any Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary.Day 9: Thon Tha Village in Ha Giang
Go to Ha Giang
Start the day with a spectacular ride to Ha Giang, a province in the north of Vietnam. Besides other nearby attractions, this province’s rugged topography adds to the reasons for its scenic beauty, which comprises limestone mountains and terraced rice fields. This region is known for being the main traditional resident area in Ha Giang, where natural landscapes and ethnic culture superbly coexist.
Check-in at a Traditional Tay Bungalow
When you arrive in Ha Giang local homes, this Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary suggest you to check in at the traditional Tay bungalow in Thon Tha Village. They are one of the 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam and Tay bungalows are a characteristic design made from wood and palm leaves, creating a rustic setting that still feels homey and relaxing.
Stroll in the Village and Swim in the Waterfall
Go out for a little while to walk the grounds of Thon Tha Village. The village is an idyllic retreat with the typical houses on stilts and the surrounding lush vegetation. Find the solitude and ease of the countryside.
As your way of exploring, go to the neighborhood waterfall where you will have a playful time swimming. The sparkling and pure water is a great cooling spot amidst the beauty of the region.
Live the Village Life
Spend the rest of the day getting involved in the everyday routines of a Tay rural community for your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary. Work on the farm, go fishing, or just be surrounded by the peaceful environment. The people of the village are hospitable and you might join them in cooking the traditional food they are known for.
Cultural Experience and Local Hospitality
After a day of touring local spots, take part in a cultural exchange program with the Tay tribe, which can consist of traditional music and dancing, story-telling or just sitting around the fire. The best part of a village stay is getting acquainted with the local culture and hospitality and that’s what makes your trip to Ha Giang outstanding.
Day 10: Ha Giang Exploration
Morning: Quan Ba Heaven Gate
Spend your first hours of the day by going to Quan Ba Heaven Gate. This location is one of a kind as its view terrifies Tam Son City and Twin Mountains, which were called “Fairy Bosom” because of their unique shape and the local legends that tell their story. It’s exciting that the area is enveloped in mist during the early hours thus it creates a mysterious and quiet atmosphere. The climb may take a while but you will get to the platform to take photos of Dong Van Geo-Park and the areas around the park that are also very beautiful. This destination is a perfect addition to your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary.
Mid-Morning: Ma Pi Leng Pass
As you take your time at the Quan Ba Heaven Gate you can continue to Ma Pi Leng Pass, which is acclaimed as the most beautiful portion of Vietnam’s mountains. The process is in and of itself very exciting; curving roads that open into picturesque landscapes are all over the place as well as loads of photo ops. Run towards Ma Pi Leng Pass and in no time, you will be on top of the mountain. From Ma Pi Leng Pass alone, you can see the deepest peaceful Nho Que River, which is piercing through high fees and the sharp peaks of the mountains.
Afternoon: Happiness Road
One of the many virtues of Happy Road is that it symbolizes the toil and effort of the local people who made it. The track is filled with zero-to-sixty slopes up in the hills, around the series of five hill peaks, and through the thick forest. Here on this road, one spot can help you know the relationship between the land and its people. Local guides and interpretive signs are the sources of the stories and folklore of the locality.Late Afternoon: Return to Ha Giang
As the day draws to a close, take a leisurely drive back to Ha Giang City. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to reflect on the day’s adventures and the incredible landscapes you’ve encountered. Arrive back in Ha Giang City in the early evening, with time to relax and enjoy a local dinner. Consider exploring the local markets or enjoying a quiet evening by the river. This journey is an unforgettable experience in your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary.Day 11: Dong Van and Surroundings
Morning: H’Mong King Palace
Day 11 of your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary starts with the H’Mong King Palace, where you can learn about the life of this historical site. It is better known as the Vuong Palace and is a source of pride for the citizens of the town. There is found to be a mix of Chinese architecture and customary French architecture on display. This is a perfect example of how cultural differences blend.The main palace was built at the beginning of the 20th century and was formerly the H’Mong tribe’s family dwelling. Close-ups of the delicate deities and kinships, detailed stonework, open-air living situations, and well-preserved artworks will expose the visitors to the lives and history of the H’Mong people.
Mid-Morning: Pho Cao Village
In this Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary, you can move on to Pho Cao whilst experiencing the variety of stone houses and terraced fields within this scenic land. The H’Mong people have been the main inhabitants of this village, as they have sustained the traditional way of life. Have a stroll around the village to discover the variety of stone houses and get to talk to the local people to learn about their customs and traditions.Afternoon: Sung La Village and Lung Tam Village
This Vietnam 2 week itinerary is proceed to Sung La where many films and documentaries have been shot, this is how you would imagine villages to look like in textbooks. The village is located in a peaceful area, surrounded by green hills and it is the residence of Lo Lo people which provides both the environment of the village and their traditional houses. With simple bamboo furniture and tools, organic farming, recycled garbage, and other concepts of sustainable lifestyle, the practice of these sustainable lifestyle methods has been incorporated into their everyday lives.Then you’ll visit the Lung Tam Village, renowned for its calm and rustic landscape, particularly brocade weaving, which is famous in all of Vietnam. The area is mostly and mostly affected by the H’Mongs and their wool. The main activity of the village is weaving where you can learn about the complicated designs and the significance of their patterns. You will be amazed by the weaving skill of the weavers. This visit is a highlight of your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary.Evening: Nam Dam Village
Relax at Nam Dam Village, enjoying time away from the bustling crowds of the city in a traditional Coin Dao brick roof house. Nam Dam is such a tranquil place that you can live and eat at one of the Dao people’s simple homes. Have a traditional dinner and delve into the mystery of the Dao people, and lastly, their culture, customs, as well as their daily life.Day 12: Lung Khuy Cave and Return to Hanoi
Get your day started with the incredible Lung Khuy Cave, a secret spot for an amazing experience. Lung Khuy Cave, which is located in the heart of the Ha Giang region, is a kind of gem. It is a natural and unspoiled charm. This Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary can be an alternative to more touristy places. As you walk around the Lung Khuy Cave, you should be envious of the splendid collection of stalemetres and stalactites that lie on the walls, giving out a fairy-tale atmosphere.
Next on your Vietnam 2 week itinerary, moving to the cave will involve a short but exciting walk of 2 kilometers, which would be an excellent occasion for you to experience the beauty of the surrounding nature in full. The stroll not only takes you through fooling inside the cave but also offers amazing scenery and serene atmospheres.
While at the Lung Khuy Cave, you’ll see the amazing formations and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The recent discovery of this cave likely contributes to its well-preserved natural habitat, making it a unique and undisturbed destination for tourists. Make sure to take with you a camera to capture the most impressive pictures of your life because the display of light on the mineral formation gives us a perfect opportunity to take the photo.
After thoroughly searching these caves, you return to Thon Tha for a perfect lunch. One will find themselves surrounded by stilt houses and the warmest people here, a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal before heading back to Hanoi. In the afternoon, you will start your journey back to Hanoi, concluding this part of your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary.
Day 13: Ha Long Bay Cruise
UNESCO has designated Ha Long Bay as a World Heritage Site for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands topped with rainforests.An epic holiday Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary begins with the journey La Regina Royal, this is the deluxe luxury voyage that takes travelers through the most beautiful Ha Long Bay seas, a purely natural wonder. Concluding the three days’ cruises on the breathtaking bay, there was clearly a lot of lively marveling into the magic of emerald waters and the islands, some thousand, of ancient limestone scattered around, each one studded with virgin rainforests. From the bay’s ethereal beauty and calmness to the greenish environment, Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay naturally creates a sense of admiration in you as its nature is impressive and the first avowed dream is to be there.
Your first stop is the Vung Vieng floating village, where you can watch the way of life of the local fishermen in the traditional manner. Step into a village, on a boat of woven bamboo stripes, and that is quietly drifting through the waters while gazing at the unique features of the floating houses or the schools whose foundations are under the waters.
Then, discover the marvelous atmosphere of Thien Canh Son Cave, tucked away in the bay. This stop in your Vietnam 2 week itinerary will offer a captivating view of stalactites and standing columns, highlighted by the use of light, showcasing the cave’s complexity. Also, you can hike up to the cave entrance to see the stunning panoramic beauty of the bay.
When the time is getting to the point of nightfall, go outdoors on the deck and treat yourself to a cool drink. You will be rewarded with your drinks when you will be seeing the sun diving into Ha Long Bay. There is the cold water and the colorful sky that gives you the feeling of dreaming. At night, you will indulge in a gourmet dinner on board with fresh seafood and other local specialties.
This day of your Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary captures the enchanting allure of Ha Long Bay, making it an unforgettable part of your journey. The cruise experience, combined with the natural wonders and cultural encounters, encapsulates the essence of a perfect Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary.