Embark on an 11-day moderate-budget cultural adventure through Vietnam's vibrant cities of Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. This immersive journey invites you to explore ancient sites, museums, and local markets, enjoy serene nature walks and charming neighborhoods, and capture beautiful moments while unwinding in relaxing cafes.
After your flight, arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi.
Proceed through immigration and customs.
Private car or airport taxi to your hotel in the city center. Expect a 45-60 minute drive.
Check into your hotel and take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey.
Look for a hotel in the Old Quarter for easy access to attractions and vibrant street life.
Wander through the bustling narrow streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, soaking in the atmosphere, observing local life, and browsing unique shops.
Each street traditionally specialized in a particular trade.
Experience a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show, a unique art form depicting folk tales and daily life, accompanied by live traditional music.
Book tickets in advance, especially for evening shows. Pricing is typically around USD 5-10.
Enjoy an authentic Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant in the Old Quarter.
Try Bún Chả (grilled pork with noodles) or Phở.
Experience the best of Hanoi with a half-day city tour, delving into its historical sites, hidden gems, and local culture.
This tour often includes key landmarks and a taste of local life.
A guided tour is a great way to cover many highlights efficiently.
Visit the infamous 'Hanoi Hilton' prison, a historical site used by French colonists for political prisoners and later by North Vietnam for American POWs.
Gain insight into Vietnam's turbulent past.
Entrance fee applies, typically around VND 30,000 (approx. USD 1.50).
Explore Vietnamese art from prehistoric times to contemporary works, showcasing the country's rich artistic heritage across various mediums.
A calm and insightful experience into Vietnamese artistic expression. Entrance fee applies.
Learn about the history and unique preparation methods of 5 famous Hanoi coffee drinks, including the renowned Egg Coffee. A hands-on experience in a coffee shop with a long history.
Embark on a unique motorbike tour to Bat Trang Ceramic Village.
Drive along the dyke roads, experience local life, and explore this 1000-year-old ceramic village, famous for its traditional pottery.
This tour offers a glimpse into rural Hanoi and traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship.
Join a unique knife-making workshop in Da Sy, a centuries-old blacksmithing village.
Learn the historic craftsmanship and create your own blade with expert guidance, including working with the only officially recognized female artisan.
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice in Hanoi and have a relaxed evening after a day of exploration and hands-on activities.
Embark on a full-day luxury tour to Ninh Binh, often called 'Ha Long Bay on land'.
Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and enjoy a scenic boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This small group tour provides high-quality transfer and a professional guide for the best experience. Lunch is usually included.
After a long day trip, enjoy a relaxing dinner back in Hanoi and unwind for the evening.
Learn to cook 5 popular Vietnamese dishes, including the famous Banh Xeo, in an intensive and engaging hands-on cooking class.
Discover the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine.
Explore the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a history spanning over a thousand years.
Discover ancient relics, archaeological sites, and learn about Vietnam's royal past.
Entrance fee applies. Allow time to wander the grounds and various exhibition halls.
Indulge in a comprehensive spa and wellness package designed to relax your body and lift your spirits.
This package offers a range of delicate and exquisite services.
Take a morning flight from Hanoi to Da Nang International Airport.
This short internal flight offers scenic views of the Vietnamese coastline upon approach.
Specific flight details were mentioned in your initial trip overview. Please refer to your booking for exact times and airline.
Check into your accommodation in Hoi An or Da Nang, settle in, and grab some local lunch.
Enjoy the golden sands and clear waters of My Khe Beach, one of Vietnam's most beautiful beaches.
You can swim, sunbathe, or take a leisurely walk along the shore.
Umbrellas and chairs are available for rent. Be mindful of strong currents during certain times of the year.
Savor fresh seafood or traditional Vietnamese dishes at a riverside restaurant overlooking the Han River.
Take a taxi or ride-hailing service to the charming ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
A Grab car or local taxi will cost approximately USD 15-20.
Explore the narrow streets, historic houses, and temples of Hoi An.
Highlights include the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, and Phuc Kien Assembly Hall.
Purchase a 'Hoi An Ancient Town Ticket' (approx. USD 6) which grants access to 5 heritage sites.
Enjoy traditional Hoi An specialties like Cao Lau, Mi Quang, or White Rose dumplings at a local restaurant.
Hoi An is famous for its bespoke tailoring.
Consider getting custom-made clothes or browse local artisan shops for souvenirs.
Many tailors can produce garments within 24 hours. Research reputable shops beforehand.
Experience Hoi An as dusk falls, when thousands of colorful lanterns illuminate the streets and river.
Consider a boat ride on the Thu Bon River.
Enjoy a magical dinner at one of the many restaurants along the Thu Bon River, soaking in the illuminated atmosphere.
Visit the cluster of five limestone and marble hills, each named after one of the five elements.
Explore caves, tunnels, and Buddhist sanctuaries, and enjoy panoramic views from the peaks.
Wear comfortable shoes. There is an elevator available for a fee if you prefer not to climb stairs. Entrance fee approx. USD 1.50.
Enjoy a casual lunch at a local restaurant near the Marble Mountains or back in the city center.
Learn to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes with a hands-on cooking class.
many classes include a market visit to select fresh ingredients.
Search for local cooking classes in Da Nang or Hoi An; prices typically range from USD 30-50 per person. Booking in advance is recommended.
Take a relaxing evening stroll along the Han River or visit a local night market for snacks and souvenirs.
Take a day trip to Ba Na Hills, a hill station and resort accessible by one of the world's longest cable car systems.
Walk across the iconic Golden Bridge, visit the French Village, and enjoy various attractions.
This is a full-day excursion. Expect crowds, especially on weekends. Cable car and entrance fee approx. USD 35-45. Booking in advance is recommended.
Indulge in Da Nang's famous fresh seafood at a local restaurant by the beach or river.
Visit the iconic Dragon Bridge, famous for its weekend fire and water show (not on this day, but impressive nonetheless).
Afterwards, explore Han Market for local goods, snacks, and souvenirs.
Enjoy one last authentic Vietnamese lunch in Da Nang, perhaps trying Mi Quang or Banh Xeo.
Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment or massage to unwind after days of exploration, preparing for the next leg of your journey.
Da Nang has many reputable spas offering various treatments. Prices typically range from USD 20-50 for a 60-90 minute massage.
Enjoy a final dinner in Da Nang, reflecting on your experiences in Central Vietnam before heading to Ho Chi Minh City tomorrow.
Explore the historic Reunification Palace, a landmark representing the end of the Vietnam War and a symbol of Vietnam's reunification.
Wander through its opulent rooms, war command bunkers, and extensive grounds.
Admission fee is typically around VND 40,000 per person.
Take a leisurely stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, admire the beautiful French colonial architecture of the City Hall (Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee building), and capture photos at the iconic statue of Ho Chi Minh.
This area is bustling and offers a great insight into modern Ho Chi Minh City life. Perfect for people-watching.
Savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine for your last meal in Ho Chi Minh City.
Look for a local eatery specializing in Pho, Banh Mi, or other regional favorites.
Many great street food stalls and small restaurants offer delicious and affordable options.
Head to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) to catch your domestic flight to Hanoi.
Consider using a taxi or a ride-hailing service like Grab for convenience.
Traffic in Ho Chi Minh City can be unpredictable, so allow ample time for travel.
Board your domestic flight from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi to connect with your international departure.
It is recommended to book your domestic flight in advance to secure good rates and times.
Enjoy a final Vietnamese meal or grab a quick bite at one of the restaurants or cafes within Noi Bai International Airport before your international flight.
This 11-day itinerary for Hanoi can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.