Vietnam 7-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Hanoi & Hotel Check-in

Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi.

Transfer to your hotel in the Old Quarter, check in, and freshen up after your journey.

Hanoi Highlights & Hidden Gems Motorbike Tour

Experience Hanoi like a local on the back of a vintage motorbike, exploring famous landmarks and discovering hidden corners.

This tour also includes a taste of local street food.

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Helmets provided. This is an excellent way to get acquainted with the city's vibe.

Late Dinner & Drinks

Enjoy a casual late dinner at a local restaurant in the Old Quarter, followed by a drink at a 'Bia Hoi' (fresh beer) street stand to soak in the evening atmosphere.

Try Bún Chả (grilled pork with noodles) or Phở. Bia Hoi is a cheap and refreshing local beer.

Ha Long Bay Full-Day Cruise

Embark on an unforgettable day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay.

Cruise through breathtaking limestone karsts, explore caves, enjoy kayaking, and savor a fresh seafood lunch on board.

Book a reputable tour in advance that includes round-trip transport from Hanoi. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear if you plan to kayak/swim. Seafood lunch is typically included.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Explore the ancient Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the political center of Vietnam for 13 centuries.

Discover its rich history and archaeological remnants.

Entry fee applies. Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights.

Temple of Literature & National University

Visit Vietnam's first national university and the Temple of Literature, dedicated to Confucius.

A serene complex with beautiful courtyards and traditional Vietnamese architecture.

A tranquil escape from the bustling city. Great for photos.

Lunch in Hanoi

Enjoy a final authentic Vietnamese lunch in Hanoi before heading to the airport for your flight to Central Vietnam.

Consider trying Chả Cá Lã Vọng (grilled fish with dill) if you haven't already.

Flight to Da Nang & Transfer to Hoi An

Take an internal flight from Hanoi (HAN) to Da Nang (DAD).

Upon arrival, transfer to your accommodation in Hoi An Ancient Town.

Flight duration is approx. 1.5 hours. Pre-book your transfer from Da Nang airport to Hoi An (approx. 45 min drive).

Evening Stroll in Hoi An Ancient Town

After checking into your hotel, take an evening stroll through the enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town, famous for its colorful lanterns and historic architecture.

Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant.

The town is beautifully lit up at night. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and browse the souvenir shops.

Local Market Tour & Private Cooking Class

Immerse yourselves in Vietnamese cuisine starting with a cyclo trip to a local market to pick fresh ingredients, then a hands-on cooking class to learn to prepare traditional dishes.

A fantastic way to understand local culture and flavors. You'll enjoy the dishes you prepare for lunch.

Hoi An Ancient Town UNESCO Site

Explore the historic Japanese Covered Bridge, ancient houses, and local temples within the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town.

Take your time to appreciate the unique fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences.

Consider purchasing a 'Culture Ticket' for access to several heritage sites. It's pleasant to walk, or rent bicycles.

Tailoring & Lantern Shopping

Hoi An is famous for its bespoke tailoring.

Browse the numerous tailor shops for custom-made clothing or explore shops selling beautiful silk lanterns, a signature craft of Hoi An.

Allow at least 24 hours for fittings if ordering custom clothes. Lanterns make great souvenirs.

Dinner with River Views

Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Hoi An's many riverside restaurants, watching the lanterns float down the Thu Bon River.

Try Hoi An's local specialties like Cao Lầu (noodle dish) or White Rose dumplings.

Bicycle Ride Through Rice Paddies

Rent bicycles and enjoy a leisurely ride through the serene countryside surrounding Hoi An.

Cycle past lush rice paddies, water buffalo, and small villages for a glimpse of rural life.

Many hotels offer free bicycle rentals. It's a flat and easy ride, offering beautiful photo opportunities.

Brunch in Hoi An

Savor a final brunch in Hoi An before preparing for your journey to the South.

Enjoy one last bowl of Mì Quảng (Turmeric noodles) or a refreshing fresh juice.

Transfer to Da Nang Airport

Check out from your hotel and take a pre-booked transfer from Hoi An to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Allow sufficient time for traffic and check-in procedures.

Flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Board your internal flight from Da Nang (DAD) to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City.

Flight duration is approx. 1 hour 20 minutes. Pre-book your transfer from SGN to your hotel in District 1.

Hotel Check-in & Ben Thanh Market

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, check into your hotel.

Afterwards, head to the iconic Ben Thanh Market for an initial exploration, soak in the bustling atmosphere, and perhaps grab some street food for dinner.

The market is a great place for souvenirs and experiencing local life. Be prepared for lively haggling.

Internal Flight to HCMC

Fly from Da Nang (DAD) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN).

This is a necessary transfer to cover all three regions in 7 days.

Book internal flights in advance for better rates. Expect approximately 3-4 hours total travel time including airport transfers.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City and grab a quick lunch.

Many hotels offer early check-in or luggage storage if your room isn't ready.

Cu Chi Tunnels Exploration

Join a guided tour to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, an immense network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War.

Wear comfortable shoes. Guided tours often include hotel pick-up and drop-off. Be prepared for a solemn, yet insightful experience.

Dinner in District 1

Enjoy traditional Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City's bustling District 1.

Try Bún chả or Phở and fresh spring rolls.

Evening Stroll: Ho Chi Minh Square

Take a leisurely walk around Ho Chi Minh Square, admiring the City Hall and the vibrant atmosphere of Nguyen Hue Walking Street.

This area comes alive at night with street performers and a relaxed ambiance. Perfect for people-watching.

Breakfast

Enjoy a final Vietnamese breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe.

War Remnants Museum

Visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the Vietnam War from a Vietnamese perspective.

It offers a powerful and moving experience.

Exhibits can be graphic; discretion advised. Arrive early to avoid crowds.

Ben Thanh Market Visit

Explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market, a central landmark offering everything from street food to souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts.

Haggle for prices! It's also a great spot for a quick lunch at one of the food stalls.

Last-Minute Souvenirs & Relaxation

Enjoy some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or a relaxing coffee break before heading to the airport.

Transfer to Airport

Travel from your hotel to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) for your departure.

Allow ample time for traffic, especially during peak hours. Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available.

Depart from Vietnam

Depart from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) back to Chicago (ORD), concluding your 7-day Vietnam adventure.

Ensure you arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your international flight.