7-Day Vietnam Adventure: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary

Dive into the heart of Hanoi's old quarter, visiting the bustling Dong Xuan Market and witnessing the daily life of the locals. Then, take a guided tour of the Hanoi Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets and traditional architecture. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Bun Cha Huong Lien, a place famously visited by former President Obama for its delicious grilled pork and vermicelli.

After exploring the old quarter, visit the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda (Chua Tran Quoc), the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, situated on the West Lake. For lunch, head to Green Tangerine, a French-Indochine restaurant offering a unique blend of flavors in a charming setting.

As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk on the historic Long Bien Bridge (Cau Long Bien), offering panoramic views of the Red River and the city. For dinner, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine Restaurant, known for its contemporary Vietnamese dishes and stunning rooftop views of the city.

Embark on a full-day cruise to the breathtaking Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands. Enjoy a sumptuous onboard breakfast as you cruise, and make a stop at the stunning Luon Cave for some kayaking and cave exploration. Take in the panoramic views from the top of Titop Island before heading back to Hanoi.

Enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch onboard the cruise, taking in the serene beauty of the bay. As you sail back, relax on the deck and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Return to Hanoi in the late afternoon and unwind at your hotel.

For dinner, try the delectable dishes at Madame Hien, a restaurant housed in a beautiful French colonial villa, offering a menu that reflects the culinary heritage of Hanoi.

Depart from Hanoi for a day trip to Ninh Binh. Explore the ancient capital of Vietnam at Hoa Lu, visiting the historic temples and learning about the country's early history. Enjoy a local lunch in Ninh Binh, and then take a sampan boat ride through the majestic Trang An Landscape Complex (Trang An Grottoes), a UNESCO site with stunning karst formations and lush greenery.

After the boat ride, visit the scenic Tam Coc, also known as "Halong Bay on land," and take a leisurely bike ride through the picturesque countryside, passing by rice fields and limestone karsts. Return to Hanoi in the evening.

Dine at Bun Bo Nam Bo for a comforting bowl of beef noodle salad, a perfect way to end the day with a taste of Ninh Binh.

This day is yours to explore Hanoi at your own pace. You may choose to revisit a favorite spot, indulge in a leisurely morning at a local cafe, or engage in a new activity or tour that piques your interest. For breakfast, we recommend Sen Tay Ho Restaurant for a tranquil start to the day.

Continue your day of flexibility with lunch at Nha Hang Ngon, a restaurant known for its wide variety of Vietnamese dishes in a lively, colonial-style setting. After lunch, you may opt to visit a museum, take a cooking class, or simply relax and prepare for the evening.

Enjoy a special dinner at Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine Restaurant, where the rooftop ambiance and delectable dishes create a memorable dining experience. After dinner, you may choose to explore the city's nightlife, take a guided evening tour, or attend a cultural performance.

Begin with a visit to the Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong), a vast complex of Buddhist temples and shrines built into the limestone Huong Tich mountains. Take a boat trip along the Yen Stream to reach the pagodas, enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Have breakfast at the pagoda's restaurant, taking in the serene atmosphere.

After returning to Hanoi, enjoy a delightful lunch at Green Tangerine, known for its fusion cuisine in a charming setting. Then, set out for the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (VME), where you can learn about the country's diverse ethnic groups and their cultural heritage. The museum's outdoor area features traditional houses of different ethnic minorities.

For dinner, head to Quan An Ngon, a popular spot offering a wide range of Vietnamese dishes in a lively, street-food-style setting. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the Hanoi Opera House (Nha Hat Lon) and enjoy the elegant French architecture illuminated at night.

Begin your exploration of Ho Chi Minh City with a visit to the historic Independence Palace (Reunification Palace), a symbol of the city's tumultuous past. Explore the palace and its surrounding gardens, then head to the nearby War Remnants Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the Vietnam War.

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at Giang Cafe, which also has a branch in Ho Chi Minh City. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon and the Central Post Office (Bùi Đình Túy), two iconic colonial-era landmarks. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the vibrant Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

Dine at Sen Tay Ho Restaurant, a popular choice for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and elegant ambiance. After dinner, take a relaxing stroll along Dong Khoi Street, known for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and lively evening atmosphere.