13 day itinerary for Vietnam

Itinerary

Vietnam is a stunning country with a rich tapestry of culture, history, and nature. With your constraints in mind, here’s a delightful 13-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and plenty of green spaces. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)

• Evening: Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport at 19:30. Check into your hotel and unwind after your journey. If you’re up for it, grab a light dinner at a nearby restaurant. Pho 24 is a great option for a quick and delicious bowl of pho!

## Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City Exploration

• Morning: Start your day with a visit to the War Remnants Museum to understand Vietnam's history.
• Afternoon: Head to Ben Thanh Market for lunch and some shopping. Afterward, stroll through Tao Dan Park, a lovely green space perfect for a leisurely walk.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant like Sky Deck for stunning views of the city.

## Day 3: Cu Chi Tunnels & Green Spaces

• Morning: Take a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Explore the fascinating underground network used during the Vietnam War.
• Afternoon: Return to the city and visit Le Van Tam Park for a relaxing afternoon. You can enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafes.
• Evening: Dinner in the bustling Bui Vien Street area, where you can soak in the vibrant nightlife.

## Day 4: Mekong Delta Day Trip

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta. Enjoy a boat ride through the lush waterways, visit local villages, and savor traditional Mekong cuisine. Don’t forget to explore the green rice paddies and fruit orchards!
• Evening: Return to Ho Chi Minh City and relax at your hotel.

## Day 5: Travel to Da Lat

• Morning: Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat (about 1 hour). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Xuan Huong Lake and take a leisurely walk around the park. You can rent a paddleboat if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying out Da Lat’s famous dishes like grilled skewers.

## Day 6: Da Lat Nature Exploration

• Morning: Visit the Datanla Waterfall and take a thrilling ride on the alpine coaster.
• Afternoon: Explore the Valley of Love and the Flower Park. Da Lat is known for its beautiful flowers and greenery!
• Evening: Dinner at a cozy café, perhaps trying the local strawberry desserts.

## Day 7: Travel to Nha Trang

• Morning: Take a bus or train to Nha Trang (about 3-4 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and visit the Nha Trang Botanical Garden for a peaceful afternoon among the flora.
• Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner by the waterfront.

## Day 8: Nha Trang to Hanoi

• Morning: Fly from Nha Trang to Hanoi (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and visit Hoan Kiem Lake. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake and visit the Ngoc Son Temple.
• Evening: Dinner in the Old Quarter, where you can try local specialties like bun cha.

## Day 9: Hanoi City Tour

• Morning: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and One Pillar Pagoda.
• Afternoon: Explore Thang Long Imperial Citadel and then relax at Thuy Khue Park.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner and perhaps catch a water puppet show.

## Day 10: Day Trip to Ninh Binh

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Ninh Binh. Visit Tam Coc for a boat ride through stunning karst landscapes and explore the Bich Dong Pagoda. Don’t miss the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex for more breathtaking views!
• Evening: Return to Hanoi and relax at your hotel.

## Day 11: Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise

• Morning: Depart for Ha Long Bay (about 2.5 hours). Board your cruise and start exploring the bay’s stunning limestone islands.
• Afternoon: Enjoy kayaking or swimming in the emerald waters.
• Evening: Dinner on the cruise, followed by stargazing on the deck.

## Day 12: Ha Long Bay to Hanoi

• Morning: Continue your cruise with breakfast and more exploration. Visit a cave or a floating village.
• Afternoon: Return to Hanoi and check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon at Hanoi Botanical Garden for some relaxation.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in the Old Quarter.

## Day 13: Departure from Hanoi

• Morning: Last-minute shopping or a visit to any sights you may have missed.
• Afternoon: Relax at a café or park before heading to the airport.
• Evening: Depart from Hanoi at 00:20 on November 15.

And there you have it! A balanced itinerary that allows you to soak in Vietnam’s vibrant culture while enjoying its beautiful parks and green spaces. Enjoy your trip! 🌿✈️