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A 7-Day Adventure Exploring the Wonders of Vietnam

Embark on a 7-day journey through Vietnam, exploring Hanoi's Old Quarter, cruising Halong Bay, and discovering Hoi An's ancient town. Dive into history at My Son Sanctuary and Ho Chi Minh City.

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Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi:

Morning - Explore the Old Quarter and visit the Hoan Kiem Lake: Welcome to Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam! Start your day by exploring the city's Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets dating back to the 13th century. Each street was named after the specific goods that were sold there, such as Hang Bac (Silver Street) and Hang Ma (Paper Street). After wandering through the Old Quarter, make your way to the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of the city. This lake is a social hub for locals and a great place for visitors to watch people practicing Tai Chi in the morning or to simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Did you know? The name Hoan Kiem means "Lake of the Returned Sword", which comes from a legend where a Vietnamese emperor returned a magical sword to a golden turtle in the lake, hence its name.
Evening - Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner at Bun Cha Huong Lien: After a day of exploration, treat yourself to a traditional Vietnamese dinner at Bun Cha Huong Lien. This humble eatery gained international fame when former US President Barack Obama dined here with celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain. The restaurant's signature dish, Bun Cha, is a Hanoi specialty consisting of grilled pork patties and noodles, served with a side of fresh herbs and a flavorful dipping sauce. This is a must-try dish for any food lover visiting Vietnam. Did you know? The table where Obama and Bourdain sat is now encased in glass at the restaurant, and you can see the exact meal they ordered - Bun Cha, fried spring rolls, and a bottle of local beer!

Day 2: Halong Bay:

08:00 - Departure to Halong Bay: Start your day early with a journey to the breathtaking Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped by rainforests, Halong Bay is a must-visit destination in Vietnam. The bay is dotted with 1,600 limestone islands and islets and covers an area of over 1,500 sqkm. This extraordinary area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.
10:00 - Boat Cruise in Halong Bay: Once you arrive at Halong Bay, embark on a boat cruise to explore the stunning limestone islands and caves. The cruise will take you through the bay's calm waters, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands. You'll also have the opportunity to visit some of the bay's famous caves, such as the "Cave of Surprises" and the "Cave of the Wooden Stakes". Did you know? Halong Bay is home to 14 endemic floral species and 60 endemic faunal species, making it a unique natural wonder!
12:30 - Lunch on the Cruise: Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on the cruise while soaking in the stunning views of Halong Bay. The menu typically includes fresh seafood like shrimp, squid, and fish, along with traditional Vietnamese dishes.
14:00 - Kayaking and Swimming: After lunch, take part in some exciting water activities. Most cruises offer options for kayaking and swimming. Paddle your way through the emerald waters, explore hidden caves, or simply take a dip in the bay's warm waters.
16:00 - Visit Ti Top Island: Next, visit Ti Top Island, named after the Russian astronaut Gherman Titov during his first visit to Halong Bay. The island offers a beach for swimming and a stunning viewpoint at the top of a hill for panoramic views of the bay.
18:00 - Return to Hanoi: As the day comes to an end, return to Hanoi. The drive back is a great opportunity to reflect on the day's adventures and capture some last-minute photos of the picturesque landscape.
20:00 - Dinner at Bun Cha Huong Lien: End your day with a traditional Vietnamese dinner at Bun Cha Huong Lien, a popular eatery in Hanoi. Known for its Bun Cha, a dish of grilled pork and noodles, this restaurant offers an authentic Vietnamese dining experience. Enjoy your meal as you reflect on the day's adventures and look forward to the journey ahead.

Day 3: Hoi An:

08:00 - Flight to Hoi An: Start your day with a flight to Hoi An, a city on Vietnam's central coast known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, cut through with canals. The former port city’s melting-pot history is reflected in its architecture, a mix of eras and styles from wooden Chinese shophouses and temples to colorful French colonial buildings, ornate Vietnamese tube houses and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge with its pagoda.
10:00 - Explore Hoi An Ancient Town: Upon arrival, take some time to explore Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This charming town is a wonderfully well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Its buildings and street plan reflect the influences, both indigenous and foreign, that have combined to produce this unique heritage site. Did you know? Hoi An is famous for its handmade lanterns that light up the town at night, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.
12:00 - Lunch at Morning Glory Original: For lunch, head to Morning Glory Original, a popular restaurant located in the heart of Hoi An. Here, you can enjoy traditional Vietnamese dishes such as Cao Lau (a regional Vietnamese dish made from noodles, pork, and local greens) and White Rose Dumplings. The restaurant is named after a common Vietnamese vegetable, and its menu is a tribute to the street food of Vietnam.
14:00 - Visit Japanese Covered Bridge: After lunch, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, one of Hoi An's most iconic attractions. This beautiful bridge, also known as the Pagoda Bridge, was built in the 16th century and is a wonderful example of Japanese architecture. It's a great spot for photos, especially in the late afternoon when the sun casts a warm glow on the bridge's vibrant red and gold hues. Did you know? The bridge was constructed to connect the Japanese community to the Chinese quarter, as a symbol of peace.
16:00 - Shopping at Hoi An Central Market: Spend the afternoon exploring Hoi An Central Market, one of Vietnam's best, offering an unmissable shopping experience. A noisy and adorably chaotic warren of stalls and vendors, it's the perfect place to pick up souvenirs, try local foods, and immerse yourself in the everyday hustle and bustle of Hoi An life.
19:00 - Dinner at Bale Well: End your day with dinner at Bale Well, a hidden gem in Hoi An known for its set menu of Vietnamese BBQ skewers, spring rolls, and pancakes. This local eatery offers a unique dining experience where you can enjoy the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine in a cozy, rustic setting.
21:00 - Check-in at hotel in Hoi An: After a day full of exploration, check into your hotel in Hoi An and take some time to relax and refresh before the next day's adventures. Hoi An offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to charming guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler.

Day 4: My Son Sanctuary:

08:00 - Breakfast at Morning Glory Restaurant: Start your day in Hoi An with a hearty breakfast at Morning Glory Restaurant, a popular eatery known for its traditional Vietnamese breakfast and stunning views of the Thu Bon River. With a range of options from Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) to Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), there's something for everyone. Morning Glory Restaurant is not just a place to eat, but a cultural phenomenon that has become a staple of Hoi An's food scene.
09:30 - Visit Japanese Covered Bridge: After breakfast, head to the Japanese Covered Bridge, a must-visit attraction located in the heart of Hoi An. This bridge offers a glimpse into the region's rich history, from the Japanese occupation to the present day. Did you know? The Japanese Covered Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hoi An, symbolizing the city's multicultural past!
11:00 - Drive to My Son Sanctuary (approx. 1 hour): Next, embark on a scenic drive to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient Hindu temples and rich history. This journey will take you through the heart of Vietnam, offering breathtaking views of the lush countryside and the Thu Bon River.
12:00 - Explore My Son Sanctuary: Upon arrival, spend the afternoon exploring My Son Sanctuary, a cluster of abandoned and partially ruined Hindu temples constructed between the 4th and the 14th century AD by the kings of Champa. The temples are dedicated to the worship of the god Shiva, known under various local names, the most important of which is "Bhadresvara." Did you know? My Son Sanctuary is often compared to other historical temple complexes in Southeast Asia, such as Borobudur of Java in Indonesia, Angkor Wat of Cambodia, Bagan of Myanmar and Ayutthaya of Thailand.
15:00 - Lunch at Quan An Ngon: For lunch, visit Quan An Ngon, a local favorite that serves delicious Vietnamese cuisine. With its warm atmosphere and authentic dishes, Quan An Ngon offers a unique dining experience.
16:30 - Return to Hoi An and free time: After a day full of exploration, return to Hoi An and take some time to relax and refresh before dinner. Hoi An offers a range of activities, from shopping at the local markets to enjoying a traditional Vietnamese massage.
20:00 - Dinner at Cargo Club: End your day with dinner at Cargo Club, a restaurant known for its fusion of Vietnamese and Western cuisine. Enjoy your meal as you reflect on the day's adventures and look forward to the journey ahead.

Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City:

08:00 - Breakfast at L'Usine: Start your day in Ho Chi Minh City with a hearty breakfast at L'Usine, a popular eatery known for its French-inspired cuisine and chic, industrial decor. With a range of options from croissants to Vietnamese coffee, there's something for everyone. L'Usine is not just a place to eat, but a cultural phenomenon that has become a staple of Ho Chi Minh City's food scene.
09:30 - Visit War Remnants Museum: After breakfast, head to the War Remnants Museum, a must-visit attraction located in the heart of the city. This museum offers a sobering and unforgettable look into the impact of the Vietnam War on the Vietnamese people. Did you know? The War Remnants Museum is one of the most visited museums in Vietnam, attracting millions of visitors each year!
11:30 - Explore Ben Thanh Market: Next, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, one of the oldest surviving structures in Ho Chi Minh City. Here, you can shop for everything from local handicrafts to exotic fruits and spices. Did you know? Ben Thanh Market is a symbol of Ho Chi Minh City and appears on many souvenirs and postcards!
13:00 - Lunch at Cục Gạch Quán: For lunch, visit Cục Gạch Quán, a local favorite that serves delicious Vietnamese cuisine in a charming, rustic setting. With its warm atmosphere and authentic dishes, Cục Gạch Quán offers a unique dining experience.
14:30 - Visit Reunification Palace: In the afternoon, visit the Reunification Palace, an important historical site that marked the end of the Vietnam War when a North Vietnamese army tank crashed through its gates. Did you know? The Reunification Palace is preserved in its original state from 1975, offering a glimpse into Vietnam's past.
16:30 - Explore Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica: Next, head to the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, a stunning cathedral built by French colonists. Its neo-Romanesque architecture and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit spot in the city. Did you know? All the building materials were imported from France during its construction in the late 19th century!
18:00 - Check-in at hotel in Ho Chi Minh City: After a day full of exploration, check into your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City and take some time to relax and refresh before dinner. The city offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.
20:00 - Dinner at Quan An Ngon: End your day with dinner at Quan An Ngon, a restaurant known for its wide variety of Vietnamese street food served in a comfortable, restaurant setting. Enjoy your meal as you reflect on the day's adventures and look forward to the journey ahead.

Day 6: Mekong Delta:

08:00 - Breakfast at L'Usine: Start your day in Ho Chi Minh City with a hearty breakfast at L'Usine, a popular eatery known for its fusion of Vietnamese and Western cuisine. With a range of options from traditional Pho to French pastries, there's something for everyone. L'Usine is not just a place to eat, but a cultural phenomenon that has become a staple of Ho Chi Minh City's food scene.
09:30 - Drive to Mekong Delta (approx. 2 hours): Next, embark on a scenic drive to the Mekong Delta, a region known for its lush landscapes and vibrant local life. This journey will take you through the heart of Vietnam, offering breathtaking views of the countryside and the Mekong River.
11:30 - Visit Mekong Delta: Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the local way of life at the Mekong Delta. This region is a maze of rivers, swamps, and islands, home to floating markets, Khmer pagodas, and villages surrounded by rice paddies. Boats are the main means of transportation, and tours of the region often start in nearby Ho Chi Minh City. Did you know? The Mekong Delta is also known as the "Rice Bowl of Vietnam" as it produces more than half of Vietnam's agricultural output!
13:00 - Lunch at Mekong Rest Stop: For lunch, visit Mekong Rest Stop, a local favorite that serves delicious Vietnamese cuisine. With its warm atmosphere and authentic dishes, Mekong Rest Stop offers a unique dining experience.
14:30 - Explore the floating markets: After lunch, explore the floating markets of the Mekong Delta. These markets are a fascinating spectacle of color and activity, with vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to household goods from their boats. Don't forget to try some of the local fruits, which are some of the freshest and tastiest in the country.
16:00 - Visit a local village: In the afternoon, visit a local village to experience the rural lifestyle of the Mekong Delta. Here, you can learn about traditional farming methods, try your hand at fishing, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
18:00 - Drive back to Ho Chi Minh City (approx. 2 hours): After a day full of exploration, drive back to Ho Chi Minh City. This journey offers another chance to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Vietnam.
20:00 - Dinner at Quan An Ngon: End your day with dinner at Quan An Ngon, a restaurant known for its wide variety of Vietnamese street food served in a comfortable setting. Enjoy your meal as you reflect on the day's adventures and look forward to your last day in Vietnam.

Day 7: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City:

08:00 - Breakfast at L'Usine: Start your last day in Vietnam with a hearty breakfast at L'Usine, a chic café located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Known for its French-inspired menu and stylish interiors, L'Usine offers a range of breakfast options from croissants to eggs benedict. The café also doubles as a boutique, selling a curated selection of clothing, accessories, and homewares. It's the perfect place to pick up some last-minute souvenirs.
09:30 - Visit Saigon Central Post Office: After breakfast, make your way to the Saigon Central Post Office, a beautifully preserved remnant of French colonial times. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the same architect who designed the Eiffel Tower, this grand building is a must-see. Inside, you'll find a functioning post office, souvenir shops, and a large portrait of Ho Chi Minh himself. Did you know? The Saigon Central Post Office has been in operation since 1891!
11:00 - Stroll around Ben Thanh Market: Next, head to Ben Thanh Market, one of the oldest surviving structures in Ho Chi Minh City. This bustling market is a great place to experience the local culture, with hundreds of stalls selling everything from food to clothing to souvenirs. Don't forget to haggle to get the best deals! Did you know? Ben Thanh Market was first established as an informal market by street vendors in the 17th century.
13:00 - Lunch at Cục Gạch Quán: For your last meal in Vietnam, head to Cục Gạch Quán, a restaurant known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Housed in a renovated French colonial villa, the restaurant serves traditional dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Try the caramelized pork in clay pot, a local favorite.
15:00 - Relax at Saigon Opera House: Spend your afternoon relaxing at the Saigon Opera House, a beautiful example of French colonial architecture. While the opera house hosts a variety of performances, it's also a great place to simply sit back and admire the building's intricate details. Did you know? The Saigon Opera House was built in 1897 by French architect Eugène Ferret.
18:00 - Check-out from hotel in Ho Chi Minh City: After a week full of exploration, it's time to check out from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have some time to relax at the hotel or explore the city a bit more before heading to the airport.
20:00 - Departure from Tan Son Nhat International Airport: End your 7-day adventure in Vietnam by heading to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure. As you board your flight, reflect on the incredible experiences you've had, the beautiful sights you've seen, and the amazing people you've met. Vietnam is a country rich in history and culture, and we hope that this trip has given you a taste of what it has to offer. Safe travels!

Tips & Recommendations

  1. Hanoi: Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Hanoi by visiting the Temple of Literature, the oldest university in Vietnam.
  2. Hanoi: Street Food: Don't miss out on the street food scene in Hanoi. Try the famous Pho or Bun Cha for a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
  3. Halong Bay: Adventure Activities: For thrill-seekers, consider kayaking or rock climbing in Halong Bay. It's a great way to explore the bay's stunning limestone formations up close.
  4. Hoi An: Tailor-Made Clothes: Hoi An is famous for its tailor shops. Consider getting a custom-made outfit at one of the many tailors in the city.
  5. Ho Chi Minh City: War History: For a deeper understanding of Vietnam's war history, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels. It's a vast network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War.
  6. Mekong Delta: Local Experience: Experience the local way of life in the Mekong Delta. Try a homestay experience and learn about the local culture and traditions.
  7. General Tip: Respect Local Customs: Remember to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and avoid public displays of affection.

Climate & Weather

  • Hanoi: Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, experiences a tropical monsoon climate. The city has two main seasons: hot and wet summers, and winters that are cool and dry. If you're planning to explore the Hoan Kiem Lake or enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner at Bun Cha Huong Lien, it's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat during the summer months.
  • Halong Bay: Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Vietnam, has a tropical climate with hot, humid summers and cool, dry winters. If you're planning a day trip to Halong Bay, make sure to carry sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Hoi An: Hoi An, located in central Vietnam, experiences a tropical climate with hot and humid conditions year-round. The city is known for its heavy rainfall between September and January. If you're planning to explore the ancient town and visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, it's advisable to carry a raincoat or umbrella during the rainy season.
  • My Son Sanctuary: My Son Sanctuary, located in the mountainous border Duy Xuyen District of Quang Nam Province in Central Vietnam, experiences a tropical monsoon climate. The weather here can be quite unpredictable, so it's advisable to carry a light jacket when you visit My Son Sanctuary.
  • Ho Chi Minh City: Ho Chi Minh City, located in southern Vietnam, experiences a tropical climate with high humidity levels year-round. The city has two seasons: a wet season from May to November, and a dry season from December to April. If you're planning to visit the War Remnants Museum, it's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat during the wet season.
  • Mekong Delta: The Mekong Delta, located in southwestern Vietnam, experiences a tropical monsoon climate. The region has two seasons: a rainy season from May to November, and a dry season from December to April. If you're planning a day trip to the Mekong Delta, make sure to carry a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

What Locals Love

Hanoi, Vietnam:

  • Manzi Art Space: A contemporary art gallery and café loved by the city's creative community.
  • Banh Mi 25: A popular local eatery known for its delicious Vietnamese sandwiches.
  • Train Street: A unique street where trains pass through twice a day, a favorite spot for local photographers.

Halong Bay, Vietnam:

  • Cua Van Floating Village: A charming floating village where you can experience the local way of life.

Hoi An, Vietnam:

  • Hoi An Night Market: A vibrant market where locals shop for handicrafts, lanterns, and street food.
  • An Bang Beach: A beautiful beach where locals go to relax and enjoy water sports.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam:

  • Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica: A stunning cathedral that is a favorite spot for local photographers.
  • Pho Phu Vuong: A local eatery known for its delicious pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup.
  • Saigon Opera House: A historic opera house where locals enjoy world-class performances.

Mekong Delta, Vietnam:

  • Tram Chim National Park: A beautiful park loved by locals for bird-watching and boat tours.

Remember, the best way to experience a place is often to step off the beaten path. Engage with locals, try the street food, and let the rhythm of the cities guide you.