Hanoi, Vietnam 20-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Hanoi

Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN).

Take a taxi or pre-booked private transfer to your hotel in the Old Quarter.

Currency is Vietnamese Dong (VND). ATMs are widely available. Consider downloading an offline map.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your hotel in the bustling Old Quarter, a perfect base for exploring Hanoi.

Look for hotels with good reviews for solo travelers and central locations.

Old Quarter Walkabout

Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the Old Quarter.

Observe daily life, browse unique shops, and soak in the atmosphere.

Be mindful of motorbikes and street vendors. Haggling is common in markets.

Authentic Street Food Dinner

Indulge in your first taste of Hanoi's famous street food.

Try Bún chả (grilled pork with noodles) or Phở.

Evening by Hoan Kiem Lake

Enjoy a peaceful evening walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, seeing the illuminated Turtle Tower and Ngoc Son Temple.

Hanoi Highlights & Hidden Gems Motorbike Tour

Experience Hanoi like a local on the back of a vintage motorbike.

Explore famous landmarks, hidden alleyways, and local markets, getting a unique perspective of the city's sights, sounds, and flavors. This award-winning tour takes you off the beaten path.

Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Helmet provided. Product Code: 87200P6.

Lunch: Pho Ga

Enjoy a traditional bowl of Pho Ga (chicken noodle soup) at a local restaurant after your morning tour.

Temple of Literature

Visit Vietnam's first national university, a beautiful and peaceful complex dedicated to Confucius.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, the ancient Imperial Citadel, offering insights into Vietnam's history.

Dinner: Cha Ca La Vong

Savor Cha Ca La Vong, a Hanoi specialty of grilled fish with dill and turmeric, cooked at your table.

Hanoi Coffee Class

Learn about the rich history of Vietnamese coffee and how to prepare 5 famous Hanoi coffee drinks.

This hands-on class lets you see, touch, and smell popular coffee beans.

Enjoy sampling different coffees. Product Code: 393985P1.

Ho Chi Minh Complex (Exterior)

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (exterior only if not open or for time efficiency), Presidential Palace (exterior), and Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House.

The One Pillar Pagoda is also nearby.

Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered). Mausoleum often closed on Mondays/Fridays and for annual maintenance (Oct-Dec).

L’essence Relaxation Package

Indulge in a pampering 4-hour relaxation package, designed to soothe your tired body and lift your spirits with various calming treatments.

Perfect for unwinding after days of exploration.

Product Code: 167694P3. Book in advance for availability.

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at a local Vietnamese restaurant, trying different regional dishes.

Luxury Ninh Binh Full Day Tour (Trang An - Hoa Lu)

Embark on a full-day luxury tour to Ninh Binh, often called 'Halong Bay on Land'.

Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and enjoy a scenic sampan boat ride through the stunning karst landscapes of Trang An or Tam Coc.

Includes professional guide, high-quality transfer, and lunch. Product Code: 252399P16.

Return to Hanoi

Arrive back in Hanoi after a full day of exploring the beautiful Ninh Binh region.

Dinner will likely be late or a light snack after returning.

Explore Bat Trang Ceramic Village By Minsk Motorcycle

Embark on an adventurous ride to the ancient Bat Trang Ceramic Village on a vintage Minsk motorcycle.

Explore the village, learn about traditional ceramic making, and shop for unique pottery.

Includes experienced guide. Product Code: 216020P3.

Late Lunch in Old Quarter

Enjoy a casual late lunch back in the Old Quarter after your morning excursion.

Thang Long Water Puppet Show

Experience a unique traditional Vietnamese art form – water puppetry – telling folk tales and legends.

Farewell Hanoi Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Hanoi, perhaps at a restaurant offering a mix of Vietnamese cuisine.

Transfer to Ha Long Bay

Board a comfortable shuttle bus from your hotel in Hanoi to Tuan Chau Harbor in Ha Long Bay, taking in the scenic countryside.

Most cruise companies arrange transfers.

Confirm pick-up location and time with your chosen cruise line. Traffic can vary.

Cruise Check-in & Lunch

Complete check-in procedures and embark on your chosen luxury cruise ship.

Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch as the boat begins to sail through the stunning limestone karsts.

Alcoholic beverages are typically not included in the standard cruise price.

Kayaking & Swimming

Explore the emerald waters and hidden lagoons of Ha Long Bay by kayak or take a refreshing swim.

Many cruises offer guided kayaking tours to specific areas, like Luon Cave.

Sunset & Dinner on Board

Witness a breathtaking sunset over the bay, followed by a sumptuous dinner featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies on the deck or in the dining room. Some cruises offer evening entertainment.

Tai Chi & Cave Exploration

Start your day with an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sundeck.

Afterward, explore a magnificent cave, such as Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Wear comfortable shoes for the cave visit, as there are many steps.

Farewell Brunch on Board

Enjoy a final, elaborate brunch as the cruise sails back towards the harbor, offering one last chance to admire the scenery.

Check-out procedures will follow.

Transfer to Hanoi

Disembark at Tuan Chau Harbor and take the arranged shuttle bus back to Hanoi.

Use this time to relax or catch up on reading.

Relax in Hanoi

Check back into a hotel in Hanoi and enjoy some downtime after your cruise.

You might explore a local market, enjoy a quiet dinner, or simply unwind.

Flight to Da Nang

Take a morning domestic flight from Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) to Da Nang International Airport (DAD).

Allow sufficient time for airport transfers and check-in. Book tickets in advance for better rates to secure your preferred flight.

Hotel Check-in in Da Nang

Arrive at Da Nang International Airport, take a taxi or Grab to your hotel, and check in.

Settle in and freshen up before exploring.

Relax at My Khe Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon at My Khe Beach, one of Vietnam's most beautiful beaches.

You can sunbathe, swim, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze.

Beachside Dinner

Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants along My Khe Beach, savoring fresh local catches with ocean views.

Explore Marble Mountains

Visit the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills.

Explore sacred caves, Buddhist pagodas, and enjoy panoramic views from the peaks.

Wear comfortable shoes as there are many steps to climb. An elevator is available for a fee if preferred.

Endangered Monkeys Watching - Red Shanked Douc Langurs

Join a unique tour to spot the endangered Red-Shanked Douc Langurs in their natural habitat around the Son Tra Peninsula.

A responsible and fascinating wildlife experience.

Meeting time might slightly vary based on weather and season (active time of the animals). Book in advance to secure your spot. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Da-Nang/Endangered-Monkeys-Watching-Red-Shanked-Douc-Langurs/d4680-104310P6?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Da Nang Authentic Home Cooking Class

Experience Vietnamese cuisine firsthand in a real local home.

Learn to cook family-style dishes in a relaxed setting, discovering everyday recipes passed down through generations.

A hands-on culinary experience. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for dinner. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Da-Nang/Jolie-Da-nang-cooking-class-only/d4680-101676P3?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Travel to Hoi An

Take a short taxi, Grab, or local bus ride from Da Nang to the charming ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Grab (ride-hailing app) is a convenient and affordable option for this route.

Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Wander through the beautifully preserved Ancient Town.

Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, ancient houses, assembly halls, and browse local artisan shops. Consider getting custom clothing made at a tailor.

An 'Old Town ticket' (approx. USD 6 for 1 person) is required to enter some heritage sites within the town.

Lantern-Lit Dinner & Ambiance

Enjoy dinner at one of Hoi An's riverside restaurants, soaking in the magical atmosphere created by thousands of colorful lanterns.

Take a stroll along the river to see the lanterns up close.

Return to Da Nang

After a full day experiencing the charm of Hoi An, take a taxi or Grab back to your hotel in Da Nang.

Arrive in Hue

Arrive in Hue from Northern Vietnam (flight/train from Day 10).

Check into your accommodation and prepare to explore.

Arrange for airport or train station transfer to your hotel. Many hotels offer this service.

Explore Imperial Citadel

Step back in time with a visit to the sprawling Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Explore the Citadel, Forbidden Purple City, and various palaces and temples.

Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking. Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights.

Perfume River Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing evening cruise on the Perfume River, often accompanied by traditional Hue folk music and a local dinner.

Book in advance, especially during peak season. A beautiful way to see the city lights.

Visit Royal Tombs

Explore one of Hue's magnificent royal tombs, such as the elaborate Tomb of Khai Dinh or the serene Tomb of Minh Mang, showcasing unique architectural styles.

Consider hiring a motorbike or car with a driver to visit the tombs, as they are spread out along the Perfume River. Entrance fees apply for each tomb.

Thien Mu Pagoda

Visit the iconic seven-story Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue's oldest and most beautiful pagoda, situated on the banks of the Perfume River.

You can reach the pagoda by boat on the Perfume River or by road. Entry is free.

Explore Dong Ba Market

Experience local life at Dong Ba Market, Hue's largest and oldest market.

Browse for souvenirs, local produce, and street food.

Practice your bargaining skills! A great place to try local snacks.

Taste Hue Cuisine

Indulge in Hue's famous imperial cuisine, known for its delicate flavors and presentation.

Try Banh Khoai (savory pancake) or Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup).

Hue to Hoi An via Hai Van Pass

Embark on a breathtaking journey from Hue to Da Nang with sightseeing stops along the iconic Hai Van Pass, Lang Co Bay, and other scenic spots.

This tour provides a comfortable car transfer with an English-speaking driver.

Enjoy stunning coastal views and photo opportunities. This specific tour is listed to go all the way to Hoi An, but you can request to be dropped off in Da Nang to spend the night there.

Relax at My Khe Beach

Upon arrival in Da Nang, unwind at the famous My Khe Beach, known for its soft sand and clear waters.

Enjoy a walk or simply relax by the ocean.

Dragon Bridge & Han River

Stroll along the Han River and admire the illuminated Dragon Bridge.

If it's a weekend evening, you might catch the dragon breathing fire and water.

Travel to Hoi An

Take a short taxi or grab car ride from Da Nang to the charming ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The drive is scenic and takes about 30-45 minutes.

Explore Ancient Town

Wander through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An Ancient Town.

Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, ancient houses, and assembly halls.

A 'Hoi An Ancient Town Ticket' (USD 5-6) grants access to several heritage sites. Many attractions are free to view from outside.

Local Hoi An Lunch

Savor regional specialties like Cao Lau (Hoi An noodle dish), Banh Vac (White Rose dumplings), or Com Ga (chicken rice).

Visit a Tailor Shop

Hoi An is famous for its bespoke tailoring.

Consider having custom clothing made, which can be ready in as little as 24 hours.

Research tailors beforehand for quality and fair pricing. You'll need to return for fittings.

Lanterns & Night Market

Experience Hoi An's magical evenings as thousands of lanterns illuminate the streets.

Explore the bustling night market for souvenirs and street food.

Authentic Home Cooking Class

Learn to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes in a local home setting.

This hands-on experience offers insight into everyday Vietnamese recipes.

A truly authentic culinary experience. The tour departs from Da Nang, but transport from Hoi An can be arranged or is a short taxi ride away.

Cycling the Hoi An Countryside

Rent a bicycle and explore the serene rice paddies, vegetable gardens, and traditional villages surrounding Hoi An. Discover a different side of local life.

Many hotels offer free bicycles, or you can rent one cheaply. Flat terrain makes it easy for all skill levels.

Tailor Fitting / Pick Up

Return to your chosen tailor for a final fitting or to pick up your custom-made garments.

Riverside Dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner in Hoi An at one of the many charming riverside restaurants, soaking in the beautiful ambiance.

Arrival & Hotel Check-in

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon).

Transfer to your hotel, check-in, and freshen up. You'll be staying in District 1 for easy access to major attractions.

Suggest pre-booking a private car or using a ride-hailing app like Grab for convenient transfer from the airport.

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market.

Discover local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, and try some street food for lunch.

Bargaining is expected for souvenirs. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

District 1 City Walk

Take a leisurely walk around District 1, passing iconic landmarks like the Saigon Opera House, City Hall, and Rex Hotel.

Enjoy the French colonial architecture.

Wear comfortable shoes. Plenty of cafes to stop for a refreshing Vietnamese iced coffee (ca phe sua da).

Signature Street Food by Scooter Tour

Experience Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant street food scene from the back of a scooter.

This tour offers a diverse array of local dishes and sights tailored to visitors.

An exhilarating way to explore the city and its culinary delights! Book this experience in advance.

War Remnants Museum

Visit the poignant War Remnants Museum, which offers a powerful and often graphic look at the Vietnam War.

Allow ample time for reflection. The exhibits can be quite intense.

Reunification Palace (Independence Palace)

Explore the former Presidential Palace of South Vietnam, a significant landmark marking the end of the Vietnam War.

Consider a guided tour to understand the historical context better.

Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office

Admire the stunning French colonial architecture of the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the beautiful Central Post Office next door.

The cathedral is often undergoing renovations, but the exterior and post office are always impressive.

Vietnamese Coffee Experience

Relax and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee at a local cafe, perhaps trying an egg coffee or a coconut coffee.

Cafes like Cong Caphe offer unique themed experiences.

Dinner & Bui Vien Street

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Later, experience the lively atmosphere of Bui Vien Walking Street, known for its bars, restaurants, and street performers.

It can get very crowded and loud, but it's a quintessential HCMC nightlife experience.

Cu Chi Tunnels Half-Day Tour

Take a guided half-day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the war.

Learn about the harsh conditions and ingenious traps.

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Be prepared for some walking and potential crawling through tunnels (optional). Book your tour in advance.

Afternoon Relaxation

Return to the city and enjoy some downtime after your morning excursion.

You can relax at your hotel, enjoy a coffee, or do some light souvenir shopping.

Take it easy and recharge for the evening's culinary adventure.

Zero Tourist Food Tour

Embark on an adventurous food tour focusing on unique, non-touristy eateries and routes.

Discover authentic Vietnamese dishes off the beaten path.

This tour is perfect for adventurous foodies looking for an authentic local experience. Come hungry! Book your spot to ensure availability.

Full-Day Mekong Delta Tour (My Tho/Ben Tre)

Embark on a full-day guided tour to the Mekong Delta.

Explore the lush landscapes, cruise along the river, visit local villages, enjoy traditional music, and sample fresh fruit and coconut candy. This often includes a boat ride through small canals and a visit to a local bee farm.

A popular and relaxing way to experience rural Vietnam. Tours typically include round-trip transportation from HCMC, boat trips, and lunch. Book a reputable tour company in advance.

Farewell Dinner in HCMC

Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a nice restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City, reflecting on your incredible 20-day journey through Vietnam.

Consider a restaurant with a rooftop view or one specializing in regional Vietnamese cuisine.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Enjoy some final souvenir shopping at local boutiques or markets for any last-minute gifts or keepsakes.

Dong Khoi Street and surrounding areas offer many options for higher-end boutiques and art galleries.

Transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)

Arrange for your transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure.

Confirm your flight details and allow ample time for travel to the airport and check-in procedures. Traffic can be heavy in HCMC.

Depart from Ho Chi Minh City

Depart from Vietnam, concluding your memorable 20-day journey.

Wishing you safe travels home!