15 day itinerary for Vietnam

Itinerary

Vietnam is a stunning country with a rich tapestry of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. With 15 days to explore, you can cover a lot of ground! Here’s a fast-paced itinerary that will let you experience the highlights of Vietnam while keeping you on the move. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

• Morning: Arrive in Hanoi. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Explore the Old Quarter. Stroll through the bustling streets, try some street food (Pho is a must!), and visit Hoan Kiem Lake.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional water puppet show and have dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 2: Hanoi City Tour

• Morning: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Presidential Palace. Don’t miss the One Pillar Pagoda!
• Afternoon: Explore the Temple of Literature and the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum.
• Evening: Dinner in the Old Quarter and maybe a nightcap at a rooftop bar with a view of the city.

## Day 3: Halong Bay

• Morning: Depart for Halong Bay (about 3.5 hours by car). Board a cruise ship.
• Afternoon: Enjoy lunch on board while cruising through the stunning limestone karsts. Visit Sung Sot Cave.
• Evening: Dinner on the boat and enjoy some evening activities like squid fishing or karaoke.

## Day 4: Halong Bay to Ninh Binh

• Morning: Continue cruising in Halong Bay, then return to the harbor.
• Afternoon: Travel to Ninh Binh (about 2 hours). Visit Tam Coc for a boat ride through rice paddies and limestone cliffs.
• Evening: Check into your hotel and enjoy a quiet dinner.

## Day 5: Ninh Binh to Phong Nha

• Morning: Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and explore the temples.
• Afternoon: Head to Phong Nha (about 3.5 hours). Check into your accommodation.
• Evening: Relax and prepare for cave exploration the next day.

## Day 6: Phong Nha Caves

• Morning: Explore the Phong Nha Cave or the Paradise Cave. Both are stunning!
• Afternoon: Optional: Go for a swim in the river or visit the nearby Dark Cave for some adventure activities.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy the laid-back vibe of Phong Nha.

## Day 7: Phong Nha to Hue

• Morning: Depart for Hue (about 3 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Hue dinner, perhaps trying the famous Bun Bo Hue.

## Day 8: Hue to Hoi An

• Morning: Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and the Tomb of Khai Dinh.
• Afternoon: Travel to Hoi An (about 3 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Evening: Explore the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and enjoy dinner by the riverside.

## Day 9: Hoi An

• Morning: Take a cooking class to learn how to make Vietnamese dishes.
• Afternoon: Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and explore the local markets.
• Evening: Relax at the beach or enjoy a bike ride through the countryside.

## Day 10: Hoi An to Da Nang to Nha Trang

• Morning: Depart for Da Nang (about 30 minutes). Visit the Marble Mountains and My Khe Beach.
• Afternoon: Fly from Da Nang to Nha Trang (about 1 hour). Check into your hotel.
• Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner and maybe a stroll along the promenade.

## Day 11: Nha Trang

• Morning: Take a boat tour to the nearby islands. Snorkeling and swimming are a must!
• Afternoon: Visit the Vinpearl Amusement Park or relax on the beach.
• Evening: Dinner at a seafood restaurant.

## Day 12: Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City

• Morning: Relax in Nha Trang or visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers.
• Afternoon: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (about 1 hour). Check into your hotel.
• Evening: Explore Ben Thanh Market and have dinner at a local eatery.

## Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City

• Morning: Visit the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace.
• Afternoon: Explore the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office.
• Evening: Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Saigon River.

## Day 14: Mekong Delta Day Trip

• Morning: Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta. Visit floating markets and local villages.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a boat ride and sample local fruits.
• Evening: Return to Ho Chi Minh City and have a farewell dinner.

## Day 15: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A whirlwind 15-day adventure through Vietnam that covers the must-see sights and experiences. Make sure to stay hydrated, pack light, and enjoy every moment! Safe travels! 🌏✈️