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7-Day Vietnam Adventure: Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City
Morning
Start your journey with a visit to the War Remnants Museum (Bao Tang Chung Tich Chien Tranh). This museum offers a sobering but important look at the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese perspective. It's a must-visit for history buffs and provides deep insights into the country's past.
Afternoon
After a morning of history, head over to Ben Thanh Market (Cho Ben Thanh) for some shopping and local food. This bustling market is one of Ho Chi Minh City's most famous landmarks, offering everything from souvenirs to delicious street food. Don't forget to bargain! For lunch, enjoy some local cuisine at Nha Hang Ngon, known for its wide variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes.
Evening
In the evening, unwind with a dinner cruise on the Saigon River. The Dinner Cruise on Saigon River offers stunning views of the city skyline along with live music and delicious food. It's a perfect way to relax and take in the beauty of Ho Chi Minh City at night.
Bedtime
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4.64War Remnants Museum (Bao Tang Chung Tich Chien Tranh)
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4.64War Remnants Museum (Bao Tang Chung Tich Chien Tranh)
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4.61Ben Thanh Market (Cho Ben Thanh)
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4.61Ben Thanh Market (Cho Ben Thanh)
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Cultural Immersion in Ho Chi Minh City
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saïgon). This iconic landmark is an architectural marvel and offers a peaceful start to your day. Follow this up with a visit to the nearby Saigon Central Post Office, another beautiful example of French colonial architecture.
Afternoon
For lunch, head over to Hum Vegetarian, Cafe & Restaurant for some delicious vegetarian cuisine in a serene setting. Afterward, explore Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of the most atmospheric temples in Ho Chi Minh City. The pagoda is filled with statues and carvings that offer insight into Buddhist and Taoist beliefs.
Evening
In the evening, treat yourself to an exquisite dining experience at Noir. Dining in the Dark. This unique restaurant offers an unforgettable meal served in complete darkness by visually impaired staff, enhancing your other senses and providing a new perspective on dining.
Bedtime
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4.72Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saïgon)
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4.72Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saïgon)
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4.71Saigon Central Post Office
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4.71Saigon Central Post Office
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Historical Insights and Local Flavors
Morning
Kick off your day with a trip to Cu Chi Tunnels by Luxury Speedboat. This half-day tour will take you through the intricate network of tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. The speedboat ride adds an extra layer of excitement as you travel along the Saigon River.
Afternoon
Return to Ho Chi Minh City for lunch at Propaganda Bistro, known for its modern twist on traditional Vietnamese dishes. After lunch, spend some time exploring Dong Khoi Street (Duong Dong Khoi), which is lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
Evening
For dinner, head over to The Deck Saigon, located along the banks of the Saigon River. Enjoy contemporary Asian cuisine while taking in stunning river views. It's an ideal spot for a romantic evening or simply unwinding after a busy day.
Bedtime
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Cu Chi Tunnels by Luxury Speedboat
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Cu Chi Tunnels by Luxury Speedboat
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4.94Dong Khoi Street (Duong Dong Khoi)
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4.94Dong Khoi Street (Duong Dong Khoi)
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Artistic Exploration and Scenic Views
Morning
Start your morning at the Museum of Fine Arts, which houses an impressive collection of Vietnamese art ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces. It's a great place to appreciate local culture through art.
Afternoon
For lunch, dine at Cuc Gach Quan, known for its rustic charm and home-cooked Vietnamese meals made from organic ingredients. Afterward, visit Bitexco Financial Tower where you can go up to the Saigon Skydeck for panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City.
Evening
End your day with dinner at La Villa French Restaurant, offering fine French cuisine in an elegant villa setting. The combination of excellent food and ambiance makes it one of Ho Chi Minh City's top dining destinations.
Bedtime
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5.00Museum of Fine Arts
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5.00Museum of Fine Arts
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4.58Bitexco Financial Tower
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4.58Bitexco Financial Tower
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Hanoi's Historical Heart
Morning
Begin your exploration of Hanoi with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. This monumental structure is the final resting place of Vietnam's beloved leader, Ho Chi Minh. The mausoleum is an important pilgrimage site for many Vietnamese and offers a deep dive into the country's history.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Duong's Restaurant & Cooking Class, where you can enjoy delicious Vietnamese cuisine and even participate in a cooking class if you wish. Afterward, explore the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam), Vietnam's first national university. The temple is dedicated to Confucius and is a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture.
Evening
In the evening, enjoy dinner at Green Tangerine, a French-Vietnamese fusion restaurant set in a charming colonial villa. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around the Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake), which is beautifully lit up at night and offers a serene end to your day.
Bedtime
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4.72Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
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4.72Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
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4.67Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam)
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4.67Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam)
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Cultural Treasures and Local Delights
Morning
Hanoi Old Quarter is your first stop today. This bustling area is full of narrow streets, traditional shops, and local eateries. It's the perfect place to get lost and discover hidden gems. Make sure to try some street food while you're here!
Afternoon
Bún Chả Hương Liên for lunch is a must-visit; this restaurant gained international fame after President Obama dined here with Anthony Bourdain. After lunch, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (VME), which offers fascinating insights into the diverse cultures and ethnic groups that make up Vietnam.
Evening
The Hanoi Social Club offers a relaxed atmosphere for dinner with its eclectic menu and cozy setting. Afterward, catch a performance at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. This traditional art form dates back to the 11th century and provides an entertaining glimpse into Vietnamese culture.
Bedtime
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4.60Hanoi Old Quarter
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4.60Hanoi Old Quarter
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4.63Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (VME)
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4.63Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (VME)
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Scenic Beauty and Farewell
Morning
West Lake (Ho Tay) is your destination this morning. Rent a bike or take a leisurely walk around this large freshwater lake, which offers beautiful views and numerous temples along its shores.
Afternoon
Cha Ca Thang Long for lunch serves one of Hanoi's most famous dishes: Cha Ca (grilled fish). After enjoying this local specialty, visit the Presidential Palace, an impressive colonial building set in lush gardens.
Evening
For your final evening in Hanoi, dine at Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine Restaurant, which offers stunning views over Hoan Kiem Lake along with delicious Vietnamese dishes. End your trip with a nightcap at one of Hanoi's rooftop bars to take in the cityscape one last time.
Bedtime
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4.93West Lake (Ho Tay)
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4.93West Lake (Ho Tay)
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4.95Presidential Palace
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4.95Presidential Palace
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