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Vietnam 12-Day Trip Itinerary

Vietnam Trip - May 1, 2026 to May 12, 2026

May 1 - May 12

Embark on a romantic 12-day escape to Vietnam in May 2026, where you and your partner will discover cultural treasures, enjoy nature walks, and relax on beautiful beaches, all from 4-star private accommodations. This moderate-budget journey, perfect for photography enthusiasts, includes flights from London, the Midlands, or Manchester, promising a blend of adventure and serene relaxation.

Vietnam view
1

Arrival in Hanoi & Old Quarter Charm

Friday, May 1
1.1
Afternoon
USD 20-30 for 2 people

Arrive in Hanoi

Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), clear customs, and take a pre-arranged transfer to your 4-star hotel in the Old Quarter.

Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), Hanoi

Recommended to pre-book a private car transfer for a comfortable arrival after a long flight.

1.2
Late Afternoon

Check-in & Relax

Settle into your hotel.

Take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey.

Ensure your passport and visa (if applicable) are readily accessible for check-in.

1.3
Evening

Old Quarter Evening Stroll

Take a leisurely walk through the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter.

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere, historic architecture, and local life.

Be mindful of motorbikes and street vendors. Perfect for people-watching.

1.4
19:30
USD 30-50 for 2 people

Traditional Vietnamese Dinner

Enjoy your first authentic Vietnamese dinner at a highly-rated local restaurant.

Try dishes like Pho, Bun Cha, or fresh spring rolls.

2

Hanoi's Culture & Hidden Gems

Saturday, May 2
2.1
09:00
USD 4 for 2 people

Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple

Start your day with a peaceful walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, a central point of Hanoi.

Visit Ngoc Son Temple, accessible via the iconic Huc Bridge.

2.2
10:30
USD 114 for 2 people

Hanoi Highlights & Hidden Gems Motorbike Tour

Embark on an exciting vintage motorbike tour to discover Hanoi's sights, sounds, and flavors, including hidden gems and highlights.

Experience Hanoi like a local. Safety briefing and helmets provided. This tour is a fantastic way to see the city from a unique perspective.

2.3
15:00
USD 10-20 for 2 people

Late Lunch / Street Food Snack

Grab a late lunch or some street food snacks after your motorbike tour.

Your guide might have recommendations!

2.4
18:30
USD 10-20 for 2 people

Thang Long Water Puppet Show

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show, a unique art form depicting rural life and legends.

2.5
20:00
USD 30-50 for 2 people

Dinner in the Old Quarter

Savor another delightful dinner in the Old Quarter, perhaps trying a different local specialty.

3

Countryside Excursion & Relaxation

Sunday, May 3
3.1
09:00
USD 118 for 2 people

Bat Trang Ceramic Village by Minsk Motorcycle

Explore the ancient Bat Trang Ceramic Village on a vintage Minsk motorcycle.

See traditional ceramic making and drive along the dyke roads.

A unique opportunity to see the Vietnamese countryside and traditional crafts. Guides are experienced and provide a safe and fun experience.

3.2
14:00
USD 20-30 for 2 people

Lunch near Bat Trang

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery near Bat Trang village, or back in Hanoi depending on your tour's schedule.

3.3
16:00
USD 80-150 for 2 people

Afternoon Tea or Spa (Optional)

Indulge in a relaxing afternoon.

Perhaps enjoy afternoon tea at a charming cafe or book a couples' spa treatment to unwind.

Many hotels offer spa services, or there are standalone spas in the Old Quarter. The L’essence Relaxation Package for Lady is available via Viator if one traveler is interested, or find a general couples massage. Pricing below is for a general couples massage.

3.4
19:30
USD 60-100 for 2 people

Rooftop Drinks & Farewell Hanoi Dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner in Hanoi, perhaps at a restaurant with a rooftop view overlooking the city lights.

4

Travel to Da Nang & Beach Resort Arrival

Monday, May 4
4.1
08:00
USD 20-30 for 2 people

Transfer to Hanoi Airport

After breakfast and check-out, transfer from your hotel to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for your domestic flight to Da Nang.

Confirm transfer time with your hotel or pre-booked service.

4.2
10:30 - 12:00
USD 100-200 for 2 people

Flight to Da Nang

Take a domestic flight from Hanoi (HAN) to Da Nang (DAD).

Various airlines operate this route, including Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways. Book in advance for better rates.

4.3
12:30
USD 15-25 for 2 people

Transfer to Beach Resort

Upon arrival at Da Nang International Airport (DAD), transfer to your chosen 4-star beach resort along My Khe Beach or Non Nuoc Beach.

Many resorts offer airport transfers, or taxis are readily available.

4.4
13:30

Resort Check-in & Relaxation

Check into your luxurious 4-star beach resort.

Settle into your private room or villa and immediately start enjoying the beach atmosphere.

Take this time to explore the resort's facilities, perhaps take a dip in the pool or stroll along the beach.

4.5
19:00
USD 50-80 for 2 people

Beachside Dinner

Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the resort's restaurants or a nearby beachside eatery, savoring fresh seafood with the sound of the waves.

5

Pure Beach Relaxation in Da Nang

Tuesday, May 5
5.1
Morning

Morning Beach & Pool Time

Wake up to the sound of the ocean.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your resort, followed by a relaxing morning on the beach or by the pool.

Take advantage of the resort amenities, swim, sunbathe, or simply read a book.

5.2
12:30
USD 30-50 for 2 people

Casual Seaside Lunch

Have a relaxed lunch at the resort's beachfront restaurant or a casual local spot nearby.

5.3
Afternoon
USD 100-200 for 2 people

Couples' Spa Treatment

Indulge in a rejuvenating couples' spa treatment at your resort or a highly-rated spa in Da Nang.

5.4
18:00
USD 20-40 for 2 people

Sunset Drinks by the Beach

Enjoy pre-dinner drinks as you watch the sunset over the South China Sea, a perfect romantic moment.

5.5
19:30
USD 80-150 for 2 people

Fine Dining Experience

Treat yourselves to a special fine dining experience at one of Da Nang's upscale restaurants, perhaps specializing in fresh seafood.

6

Da Nang Beach Relaxation & Exploration

Wednesday, May 6
6.1
09:00 - 12:00

Beach Morning & Resort Pool

Enjoy a leisurely morning relaxing by the pool at your resort or taking a stroll along the pristine sands of My Khe Beach.

Soak in the sun and the tranquil ocean atmosphere.

My Khe Beach is one of Vietnam's most beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Beach towels usually provided by the resort.

6.2
12:30 - 13:30
EUR 25-40 for 2 people

Seafood Lunch

Indulge in fresh local seafood at one of the many restaurants lining My Khe Beach.

Many offer ocean views and delicious regional specialties.

6.3
14:30 - 17:00

Dragon Bridge & Han River Walk

Take a leisurely walk along the Han River promenade, admiring the city views and the iconic Dragon Bridge.

You can also visit the nearby Love Lock Bridge.

The Dragon Bridge breathes fire and water on Saturday and Sunday evenings, which you'll experience later in the trip.

6.4
19:00 - 20:30
EUR 20-35 for 2 people

Dinner in Da Nang City

Explore Da Nang's vibrant food scene with dinner at a local restaurant offering a variety of Vietnamese dishes beyond seafood.

7

Hoi An Ancient Town Charm

Thursday, May 7
7.1
08:30 - 09:30

Travel to Hoi An Ancient Town

Take a short taxi or Grab ride from your Da Nang resort to the charming UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An Ancient Town.

Da Nang to Hoi An

Taxi or Grab is convenient, costing approximately EUR 15-25 for a one-way trip for 2 people. Many hotels can arrange transport.

7.2
09:30 - 12:30
EUR 20 for 2 people

Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Wander through the narrow streets of Hoi An, admiring the beautifully preserved ancient houses, temples, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Visit the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall and browse local artisan shops.

An entrance ticket for the Ancient Town allows access to several heritage sites. Consider buying a combo ticket.

7.3
12:30 - 13:30
EUR 15-25 for 2 people

Hoi An Local Lunch

Enjoy a traditional lunch at one of Hoi An's many delightful cafes or restaurants, trying local specialties like Cao Lau or White Rose dumplings.

7.4
14:30 - 17:00

Tailoring or Thu Bon River Boat Trip

Spend the afternoon either browsing Hoi An's famous tailor shops (known for custom-made clothing) or taking a relaxing boat ride on the Thu Bon River.

If opting for tailoring, allow time for fittings. Boat trips are particularly scenic in the late afternoon.

7.5
18:30 - 20:30
EUR 30-50 for 2 people

Hoi An by Night & Dinner

Experience Hoi An's enchanting evenings as lanterns illuminate the streets.

Enjoy a romantic dinner at a riverside restaurant before heading back to Da Nang.

Hoi An Ancient Town

Arrange a taxi or Grab for your return journey to Da Nang.

8

Marble Mountains & Da Nang Cooking Class

Friday, May 8
8.1
09:00 - 12:00
EUR 4-8 for 2 people (entrance)

Marble Mountains Exploration

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

Explore the caves, tunnels, and pagodas, enjoying panoramic views from the peaks.

Wear comfortable shoes as there are many steps. An elevator is available for an extra fee. Visit the Stone Carving Village at the base.

8.2
12:30 - 13:30
EUR 15-25 for 2 people

Lunch near Marble Mountains

Have a casual lunch at a local eatery near the Marble Mountains before heading to your cooking class.

8.3
14:00 - 16:30
USD 70 for 2 people

Jolie Da Nang Cooking Class

Participate in an immersive cooking class where you'll learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes.

Enjoy a welcome drink and hear stories about student life before you start cooking.

A hands-on culinary experience. Book in advance. You'll get to enjoy the food you prepare!

8.4
17:30 - 21:00
EUR 30-50 for 2 people

Resort Relaxation & Dinner

After your cooking adventure, return to your resort for some well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy dinner at the resort or a nearby casual restaurant.

9

Monkey Mountain & Relaxation

Saturday, May 9
9.1
09:00 - 12:00

Morning Beach & Pool Time

Enjoy another relaxing morning at your resort, swimming in the pool or unwinding on My Khe Beach.

This is a perfect opportunity to simply relax and recharge.

9.2
12:30 - 13:30
EUR 20-30 for 2 people

Casual Resort Lunch

Have a relaxed lunch at your resort or a nearby cafe, keeping it easy before your afternoon excursion.

9.3
14:30 - 17:00
USD 94 for 2 people

Endangered Monkeys Watching

Embark on an exciting tour to Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain) to observe the highly endangered Red-Shanked Douc Langurs in their natural habitat.

Your guide will ensure responsible viewing.

Meeting time might vary based on season and animal activity, usually in the afternoon. A great experience for nature lovers.

9.4
19:00 - 21:00
EUR 25-45 for 2 people

Dinner & Dragon Bridge Show

Enjoy dinner in Da Nang.

If it's Saturday, head to the Dragon Bridge by 9 PM to witness its spectacular fire and water breathing show!

The Dragon Bridge show is a highlight on weekend evenings (Sat & Sun). Arrive early for a good viewing spot.

10

Hai Van Pass Scenic Drive & Last Beach Day

Sunday, May 10
10.1
09:00 - 12:00
EUR 40-70 for 2 people (car hire)

Scenic Drive along Hai Van Pass

Take a memorable drive along a portion of the breathtaking Hai Van Pass, known for its winding roads, stunning coastal views, and lush mountains.

Make stops for photos.

You can hire a private car with a driver or join a guided tour for this scenic route. It's a fantastic photo opportunity.

10.2
12:30 - 13:30
EUR 25-40 for 2 people

Lunch at Lang Co Bay

Stop for lunch at the picturesque Lang Co Bay, a beautiful stretch of beach and lagoon, offering fresh seafood and serene views.

10.3
14:30 - 17:30
EUR 80-150 for 2 people (spa optional)

Afternoon Beach & Spa / Relaxation

Return to Da Nang and spend your final afternoon in Central Vietnam relaxing at the beach, enjoying your resort facilities, or perhaps indulging in a couple's spa treatment.

Many resorts offer spa services. Book in advance if you plan a treatment.

10.4
19:00 - 21:00
EUR 35-60 for 2 people

Farewell Dinner in Da Nang

Enjoy a special farewell dinner in Da Nang, perhaps trying a restaurant you've wanted to visit or revisiting a favorite from earlier days.

This evening is also a Sunday, so you can catch the Dragon Bridge show again if you wish.

11

Ho Chi Minh City Arrival & Historical Highlights

Monday, May 11
11.1
09:00 - 10:00

Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

Board your flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City.

Enjoy the aerial views as you travel south.

Da Nang International Airport (DAD) to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)

This intermediate flight ensures a swift transition to the south.

11.2
10:30 - 11:30

Hotel Check-in

Transfer from Tan Son Nhat International Airport to your 4-star hotel in Ho Chi Minh City and check in to your private room or villa.

We've selected a 4-star standard hotel to ensure a comfortable stay. Specific hotel recommendations can be provided upon request.

11.3
12:00 - 13:00

Lunch in District 1

Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant in District 1, close to your hotel.

11.4
13:30 - 15:30

War Remnants Museum

Visit the poignant War Remnants Museum to gain insight into the Vietnam War from a Vietnamese perspective.

Displays include military equipment and photographic exhibits.

A powerful and somber experience. Allow ample time for reflection. Admission fee is typically very modest.

11.5
16:00 - 17:30

Reunification Palace

Explore the historic Reunification Palace, a landmark of Ho Chi Minh City and a symbol of Vietnam's past.

The palace is preserved as it was in 1975.

Formerly the Presidential Palace of South Vietnam. Guided tours are available.

11.6
19:00 - 23:00
USD 110 for 2 people

Zero Tourist Food Tour

Embark on an adventurous Ho Chi Minh/Saigon Zero Tourist Food Tour to discover unique local eateries and authentic flavors away from the usual tourist spots.

Experience the true culinary delights of Saigon. Your guide will take you to hidden gems. Booking in advance is recommended for this popular tour.

12

Market Exploration & Departure

Tuesday, May 12
12.1
09:00 - 10:30

Ben Thanh Market Visit

Immerse yourselves in the bustling atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, one of Ho Chi Minh City's most iconic landmarks.

Browse for souvenirs, local crafts, and fresh produce.

Haggling is expected! Keep an eye on your belongings. Great for last-minute souvenir shopping.

12.2
11:00 - 12:00

Vietnamese Coffee Experience

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee at a local cafe.

Experience the unique drip coffee method or try a refreshing 'ca phe sua da' (iced coffee with condensed milk).

12.3
12:30 - 13:30

Farewell Vietnamese Lunch

Savor your final Vietnamese meal, perhaps enjoying a dish you particularly loved during your trip or trying something new.

12.4
14:00 - 16:00

Relaxation & Packing

Enjoy some free time at your hotel, perhaps by the pool, or finish any last-minute souvenir shopping.

Use this time to pack and prepare for your departure.

12.5
16:30 - 17:30

Transfer to Airport

Transfer from your hotel to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) for your return flight to the United Kingdom.

Ho Chi Minh City to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)

Allow ample time for traffic, especially during peak hours. Your hotel can arrange a reliable taxi or private car.

12.6
20:00 - 07:00 (+1 day)

Departure from Vietnam

Check in for your overnight flight from Ho Chi Minh City back to London, the Midlands, or Manchester.

Enjoy your journey home, reflecting on your wonderful memories from Vietnam. Ensure you arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure.

This 12-day itinerary for Vietnam 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.