Tours 7 Days 6 Nights Highlight Vietnam 

Are you looking for a trip to Vietnam but do not know where to begin? Traveling to a new country can feel daunting, especially for those unfamiliar with the ins and outs.

No worries! We’ve curated a 7-day in Vietnam itinerary to guide you through every day in this beautiful country. From the natural vistas in the North to the bustling cities in the South, Vietnam offers many attractions waiting to be explored.

Tours 7 Days 6 Nights Highlight Vietnam 

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi, food tour, nightlife activities

Unless you fly to Hanoi from a neighboring country, arriving in Hanoi after a long flight might leave you feeling a bit tired. However, Hanoi is full of activities and culinary delights perfect for an exciting day (or night) ahead.

Where to stay in Hanoi

When arriving in Hanoi, it’s best to stay in the central districts such as Hai Ba Trung, Ba Đinh, Dong Da, and Hoan Kiem. These areas are well-connected and offer easy access to Hanoi’s top attractions. You’ll find plenty of hotels, ranging from budget to luxury. This ensures a comfortable stay no matter your preference. Staying in this area also means maximizing your time exploring Hanoi without long commutes.

Things to do in Hanoi

Here are some of the best things to do in Hanoi on the first day of your 7-day Vietnam itinerary.

1. Explore the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the heart of Hanoi. Its narrow streets are filled with shops, street vendors, and ancient buildings. It’s perfect for a stroll in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Remember to bargain while shopping!

2. Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene spot in the bustling Hanoi. It’s ideal for a peaceful walk, especially in the evening when the area lights up. The lake is also home to the Ngoc Son Temple, which is worth a visit.

3. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Pay your respects to Vietnam’s revered leader, Ho Chi Minh, at his mausoleum. The structure is imposing and significant. Note that the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum closes early at 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

Stroll through the labyrinth of alleyways and street corners to experience the vibrant street food scene all by yourself. From sizzling skewers to delicate steamed rolled rice pancakes (Banh Cuon), the array of Hanoian food culture is nothing short of mesmerizing.

4. Watch the train at the railway cafe

At one of Hanoi’s railway cafes, you can enjoy great coffee and snacks while waiting for the train to pass by. Keep your phones up and ready as trains pass just a few feet away. It’s a unique experience, perfect for photos and social media.

What to eat in Hanoi

Hanoi is a food lover’s paradise. This place offers many delicious dishes, and you definitely need more than a day to try all of them.

Start with Pho (beef noodle soup). Head to Pho Thin at 61 Dinh Tien Hoang Street in Hoan Kiem for some of the best Pho in Hanoi. Bun cha is another specialty that features grilled pork patties served with vermicelli noodles. Accompanied by fresh greens and a dipping sauce, it’s a flavorful meal.

For something lighter, try Banh Cuon (steamed rice rolls). These delicious rolls are filled with minced pork and mushrooms and topped with crispy shallots. They’re served with a side of fresh herbs and a tangy dipping sauce.

Day 2: Move to Ha Long Bay, cruise tour, visit fishing villages

Ha Long Bay is just over 170 kilometers east of Hanoi, about 3 to 4 hours by sleeper bus. Renowned as one of the best bays in Vietnam and the world, Ha Long Bay is known for its stunning natural beauty. While a full exploration of Ha Long Bay typically requires 2 to 3 days, you can still experience it within a day.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park has some of the best natural landscapes in Vietnam. Here, towering karst mountains pierce the sky while hidden caves and underground rivers carve through the ancient limestone formations.

Things to do in Ha Long Bay

Here are some of the best things to do in Ha Long Bay on the second day of your 7-day Vietnam itinerary.

1. Get on a 1-day tour on cruise

The best way to experience Ha Long Bay is by taking a cruise tour over its emerald waters. These cruises range from one-day to multi-day excursions. With hundreds of options available, you can find a cruise that suits your schedule and budget. A one-day cruise offers a snapshot of the bay’s stunning limestone karsts, caves, and waters.

2. Visit Cua Van or Vung Vieng Fishing Village

As part of many cruise tours, you can visit traditional fishing villages like Cua Van or Vung Vieng. These villages offer a glimpse into the daily lives of local fishermen. You’ll get on a smaller boat to navigate the farther reaches of Ha Long Bay. This ensures a peaceful visit without disturbing the local community.

What to eat in Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is one of the best places to eat seafood in Vietnam. Cruises often provide meals featuring fresh, local seafood.

Find meals featuring specialties like Sam (horseshoe crab). This is typically grilled or steamed and topped with peanuts and onion fat. Another must-try is Sa Sung (peanut worm), known for its unique texture and flavor. Don’t be afraid of its name. This dish is often regarded as “Earth Ginseng” due to its high nutrition and rarity.

Be Be (mantis shrimp) is another great dish. This is enjoyed for its sweet and tender meat, usually grilled or steamed and served with dipping sauces. Don’t miss Cha Muc (grilled chopped squid), a famous Ha Long dish made from chopped squid, seasoned and grilled. These seafood dishes provide an authentic taste of the bay’s culinary offerings. All will make your visit even more memorable.

Return to Hanoi

After a day of exploring Ha Long Bay, you’ll need to return to Hanoi. Returning to Hanoi allows for easier access to transportation for your upcoming adventures. You can depart Ha Long Bay and return to Hanoi in the evening. You can also choose to rest overnight in Ha Long Bay and travel back the following morning.

Day 3: Travel to Phong Nha, cave tours, adventure activities

Just over an hour’s flight South of Hanoi, you’ll find yourself in Phong Nha. To make the most of your day, take the earliest flight from Hanoi to Dong Hoi City, Quang Binh Province. From there, it’s about an hour’s drive to Phong Nha, either by rental bike or transfer service. While the journey might be tiring, Phong Nha’s stunning rural landscapes and thrilling activities make it worth every moment.

Where to stay in Phong Nha

To immerse yourself in the rustic charm of Phong Nha, stay close to the locals.

Chay Lap Farmstay is an ideal choice. This place offers comfort in green landscapes and easy access to popular attractions. At Chay Lap Farmstay, you can engage in various exciting activities for free. This includes kayaking, biking to explore the villages, or waking up early to watch the sunrise. Staying at Chay Lap Farmstay not only provides a restful retreat but also an authentic rural experience.

Things to do in Phong Nha

Here are some of the best things to do in Phong Nha on the third day of your 7-day Vietnam itinerary.

1. Visit Phong Nha Cave or Paradise Cave

Phong Nha is renowned for its magnificent caves, with Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave being some of the most famous.

Just a few minutes’ drive from Chay Lap Farmstay, Phong Nha Cave offers a fascinating boat tour through its extensive network of river caves. Here, you’ll find stunning rock formations and underground rivers. On the other hand, Paradise Cave is a dry cave that stretches for 31 kilometers, making it the longest dry cave in Asia. The cave’s vast chambers and spectacular stalactites will leave you in awe.

2. Try exciting activities at Chay Lap Farmstay

If you choose to stay in for the day, Chay Lap Farmstay offers more than just a resting place. You can indulge in a herbal spa treatment to rejuvenate after your journey. For those seeking adventure, kayaking on the river is a must. It allows you to enjoy the serene beauty of Phong Nha from a different perspective. Whether paddling through calm waters or exploring the river, these activities are really worth trying.

What to eat in Phong Nha

For a top-notch culinary experience in Phong Nha, look no further than the restaurant and pool bar at Chay Lap Farmstay. This venue blends the freshest local produce, authentic Vietnamese cooking, and European cuisine. Ingredients come from their own farm garden and local markets. Every meal is fresh and flavorful.

Whether you’re enjoying a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or a sumptuous dinner, the restaurant has it all. Enjoy a delightful dining experience in a beautiful setting.

Day 4: Visit Tan Hoa, rural retreats, explore nature

If you’ve fallen in love with the natural beauty and rustic charm of Phong Nha, you’ll enjoy a day in Tan Hoa. About 70 kilometers Northwest of Phong Nha, Tan Hoa shares many similarities but offers unique experiences.

Where to stay in Tan Hoa

The best place to stay in Tan Hoa is Tu Lan Lodge. This eco-friendly lodge allows you to soak in the natural beauty while offering all the comforts of a modern stay.

Built on the slope of a mountain several meters above ground, Tu Lan Lodge provides some of the best views in Tan Hoa. Behold the stunning limestone mountain ranges, vast fields, and a meandering river. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular, making Tu Lan Lodge the perfect base for your rural retreat.

Things to do in Tan Hoa

Here are some of the best things to do in Tan Hoa on the fourth day of your 7-day Vietnam itinerary.

1. Join the Tu Lan Experience Tour

The Tu Lan Experience is an exhilarating one-day trekking tour that will lead you through the unspoiled beauty of the Tu Lan Cave System. Located deep in the jungles and limestone mountains of Tan Hoa, this area spans over 650 hectares.

Tu Lan gained international fame as a filming location for the Hollywood blockbuster Kong: Skull Island (2017). On this tour, you’ll trek through lush jungles, swim in crystal-clear river pools, and explore some of the best caves in the region.

2. Join the Hang Tien Cave Day Trek

The Hang Tien Cave Day Trek takes you to the largest dry cave in Tu Lan. Hang Tien Cave is renowned for its spectacular formations and impressive rimstone pools. This trek includes hill climbing, swimming in natural lakes, and caving.

About 80% of the route is spent trekking through a tropical jungle filled with various plant life. Therefore, if you’re a nature lover, this one-day trek is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the beauty and adventure of Tan Hoa.

Traveling to Tan Hoa isn’t required for the two adventure tours above. The tour guide will pick you up in Phong Nha. Therefore, if you plan to go on one of these two adventure trips, stay the night before in Phong Nha.

What to eat in Tan Hoa

You can sign up for dinner with a local family at Tu Lan Lodge. These meals are lovingly prepared by your hosts and shared with a local tour guide who will explain the way of life in Tan Hoa and the origins of the dishes.

Some of the best dishes include cassava rice (Com Poi), grilled pork with lemongrass, chicken stew, and fried corn spring rolls. Sharing a meal with locals not only provides delicious food but also offers a deeper understanding of the local traditions.

Day 5: Take a bus to Da Nang, beaches, popular attractions

From Dong Hoi, take an overnight sleeper bus to Da Nang, which is 270 kilometers south. Sleeper buses to Da Nang are more accessible from Dong Hoi, so make sure to transfer back to Dong Hoi after your day trip to Tan Hoa.

Where to stay in Da Nang

Da Nang offers various attractive areas to stay near its beautiful beaches. My Khe Beach boasts a lively atmosphere with numerous hotels and resorts. Non Nuoc Beach offers a tranquil setting with luxurious resorts and stunning ocean views. For a unique experience, stay on Son Tra Peninsula. This place provides a peaceful retreat with panoramic views and outdoor activities. Each area ensures easy access to local attractions and a memorable beachside stay.

Things to do in Da Nang

Here are some of the best things to do in Da Nang on the fifth day of your One week Vietnam itinerary.

1. Visit My Khe Beach or Non Nuoc Beach

Spend your day relaxing on the soft sands of My Khe Beach or Non Nuoc Beach. Both beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and engaging in water sports. Enjoy the serene environment and the beauty of the coastline.

2. Explore Ngu Hanh Son (Marble Mountains)

The Marble Mountains are a cluster of five limestone and marble hills named after the five elements. Explore the caves and temples within the mountains. The panoramic view from the top is stunning, providing a great photo opportunity.

3. Check-in at Cau Rong (Dragon Bridge)

Dragon Bridge is one of Da Nang’s most iconic landmarks. The bridge, designed to resemble a dragon, breathes fire and water on weekends at 9 PM. It’s a must-see attraction, especially at night when it’s beautifully lit up.

4. Visit Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge

Ba Na Hills is a mountain resort complex with various attractions, including the famous Golden Bridge. The bridge is held up by giant stone hands and offers spectacular views of the surroundings. Ba Na Hills also features various other entertainment options.

What to eat in Da Nang

Da Nang’s culinary scene is rich and diverse. Start with Bun Cha Ca, a fish cake noodle soup, at Bun Cha Ca Ong Ta on Nguyen Chi Thanh Street. The dish is often garnished with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime.

You can also try Banh Xeo. These are crispy pancakes made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk and are filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. For a fresh and light option, try Banh Trang Cuon. These are fresh spring rolls with various fillings, including sliced pork belly, fresh herbs, and vegetables.

Don’t miss Bun Mam Nem, a unique noodle dish with fermented anchovy sauce, herbs, and meats. Due to the special anchovy sauce, Bun Mam Nem has some of the strongest flavors for those who like to be adventurous with new dishes.

Day 6: Explore Hoi An, ancient streets, night markets

From Da Nang, a bus or taxi can take you straight to Hoi An, 25 kilometers to the South. Hoi An offers a unique experience due to its ancient charm and vibrant night markets.

Where to stay in Hoi An

Hoi An offers several attractive areas to stay, each providing easy access to local attractions. Cam Chau District features charming hotels and resorts surrounded by rice fields. The area blends modern comfort with Hoi An’s antique charm. Meanwhile, staying in the Ancient Town places you in the heart of the action. Imagine being amidst well-preserved architecture, traditional shops, and bustling markets.

Meanwhile, staying by the picturesque Thu Bon River offers stunning views and a peaceful retreat. You’ll also be very close to vibrant activities and attractions.

Things to do in Hoi An

Here are some of the best things to do in Hoi An on the sixth day of your 7-day Vietnam itinerary.

1. Explore the Hoi An Ancient Town

Wander through the narrow streets of the Ancient Town. These streets are lined with historic buildings, traditional houses, and colorful lanterns. Visiting Tan Ky’s Old House is highly recommended to get a sense of the rich cultural heritage of Hoi An.

2. Get your clothes tailor-made in a day

Hoi An is famous for its tailoring shops, where you can have custom clothes made within a day (depending on the tailor). Choose from a wide range of fabrics and styles, and leave with beautifully tailored outfits that fit perfectly.

3. Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Thu Bon River. This experience offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the charming town. This is a great way to see Hoi An from a different perspective and take in its serene beauty.

4. Witness the Hoi An Lantern Festival

If you’re visiting during the full moon, don’t miss the Hoi An Lantern Festival. The town is illuminated with colorful lanterns in a magical atmosphere. Join the locals in releasing lanterns on the river. This is a tradition that symbolizes peace and good fortune.

What to eat in Hoi An

Hoi An is a culinary haven as it offers a variety of local dishes that reflect the region’s flavors. Start with Mi Quang, Vietnamese turmeric noodles. This dish includes rice noodles, pork, shrimp, and fresh herbs in a small amount of flavorful broth. It’s usually served with crispy rice crackers.

Try Cao Lau, a dish similar to Mi Quang with thick, chewy noodles, slices of marinated pork, bean sprouts, fresh herbs, and crispy rice crackers. Nem Lui is another must-try dish. These are grilled pork skewers made of minced pork mixed with spices and grilled over charcoal. They are served with rice paper, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

For dessert, indulge in Che, a popular sweet soup in Hoi An. This often includes coconut milk and sugar, creating a creamy and comforting treat.

Return to Da Nang

At the end of the day in Hoi An, you need to return to Da Nang to catch a flight further South to complete your 7-day Vietnam itinerary the following day.

Day 7: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, end of the journey

There are many more places to explore in Southern Vietnam. However, concluding your journey in Ho Chi Minh City, one of the best cities in the country, is the perfect way to complete a North-to-South adventure.

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Here are some of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City on the last day of your 7-day Vietnam itinerary.

1. Visit Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is a bustling marketplace and a must-visit for anyone in Ho Chi Minh City. This iconic market offers a wide range of goods, from handicrafts and souvenirs to fresh produce and street food. It’s a great place to experience the atmosphere and sample some of the best street food the city has to offer.

2. Visit the War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum provides a sobering look at the Vietnam War from the perspective of the Vietnamese people. The museum houses a range of exhibits. These include photographs, military equipment, and personal accounts. It’s a must-visit for those interested in the historical context of the country.

3. Check-in at the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral

The Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral is a great example of French architecture in Vietnam. Located in the heart of the city, it features stunning stained glass windows and two bell towers. It’s a peaceful spot amidst the bustling city, offering a glimpse into the city’s colonial past and a great place for photography.

4. Walk down Bui Vien Street

Bui Vien Street is known for its vibrant nightlife and energetic atmosphere. The street is lined with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Walking down Bui Vien Street offers a chance to experience the lively side of Ho Chi Minh City. Here, you’ll find street performers, bustling crowds, and a lot of dining and entertainment options.

What to eat in Ho Chi Minh City

Start your food tour in Ho Chi Minh City with Banh Mi, a Vietnamese baguette filled with meats, vegetables, and savory spreads. You may not know this, but Banh Mi is voted the best sandwich in the world. For something more filling, try Com Tam. This is steamed broken rice served with a grilled pork chop, pickled vegetables, and a side of fish sauce. It’s a popular breakfast or lunch.

Another must-try is Bun Thit Nuong. These are grilled pork noodles served with fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and a tasty dressing. Also, try Hu Tieu. This is a rice noodle soup made with a variety of meats and seafood and garnished with herbs and lime.

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