12 day itinerary for Vietnam

Itinerary

Vietnam is a stunning country with a rich tapestry of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. With 12 days to explore, we can create a delightful itinerary that includes parks and green spaces, along with some of the must-see attractions. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

• Morning: Arrive in Hanoi. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake. It’s a lovely spot to relax and people-watch. Don’t forget to visit Ngoc Son Temple on the lake.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant. Try some pho or bun cha!

## Day 2: Explore Hanoi

• Morning: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the surrounding gardens. The lush green space is perfect for a morning walk.
• Afternoon: Head to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, and enjoy its beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Explore the Old Quarter. Grab some street food and maybe catch a water puppet show!

## Day 3: Day Trip to Ninh Binh

• Morning: Take a day trip to Ninh Binh (about 2 hours from Hanoi). Visit Tam Coc for a boat ride through stunning limestone karsts.
• Afternoon: Explore the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy the lush greenery and serene waters.
• Evening: Return to Hanoi and relax at a café.

## Day 4: Hanoi to Sapa

• Morning: Take an early morning bus or train to Sapa (about 5-6 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Sapa and check into your hotel. Explore the town and visit the local market.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner with a view of the mountains.

## Day 5: Trekking in Sapa

• All ## Day: Go on a guided trek through the terraced rice fields and visit local ethnic minority villages like Cat Cat and Ta Van. The natural beauty is breathtaking!
• Evening: Return to Sapa town and enjoy a cozy dinner.

## Day 6: Sapa to Ha Long Bay

• Morning: Depart Sapa and head back to Hanoi, then transfer to Ha Long Bay (about 4 hours).
• Afternoon: Board a cruise and start exploring the stunning limestone islands. Enjoy swimming or kayaking in the emerald waters.
• Evening: Dinner on the boat and enjoy the sunset over the bay.

## Day 7: Ha Long Bay to Hanoi

• Morning: Continue your cruise, visiting caves and enjoying the scenery.
• Afternoon: Return to the harbor and head back to Hanoi.
• Evening: Explore the West Lake area and relax in one of the parks, like the West Lake Park.

## Day 8: Fly to Da Nang and Hoi An

• Morning: Fly from Hanoi to Da Nang (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Transfer to Hoi An (about 30 minutes). Explore the Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the charming streets.
• Evening: Take a leisurely walk along the river and enjoy the lanterns lighting up the night.

## Day 9: Hoi An

• Morning: Visit the nearby An Bang Beach for some relaxation or a swim.
• Afternoon: Explore the Hoi An countryside on a bicycle tour, visiting rice paddies and local farms.
• Evening: Enjoy a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes.

## Day 10: Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City

• Morning: Fly from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the War Remnants Museum and then take a stroll in Tao Dan Park, a lovely green space in the city.
• Evening: Explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market and enjoy some local street food.

## Day 11: Mekong Delta Day Trip

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta. Visit floating markets, local villages, and enjoy a boat ride through the lush waterways.
• Evening: Return to Ho Chi Minh City and relax at your hotel.

## Day 12: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, you can visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda or do some last-minute shopping.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Make sure to try local specialties in each region!
• Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes, especially for trekking days.
• Don’t forget your camera; Vietnam is incredibly photogenic!

I hope this itinerary excites you! Vietnam is a treasure trove of experiences, and you’re going to have an amazing time exploring its parks, green spaces, and vibrant culture. Safe travels! 🌏✈️