Itinerary

Vietnam is a stunning country with a rich tapestry of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. With 22 days, you can explore both the vibrant cities and the serene, less-crowded spots. Here’s a delightful itinerary that balances both:

## Day 1-3: Hanoi

## Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

• Arrive in Hanoi and check into your hotel.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the Old Quarter. Don’t miss the street food! Try Pho and Banh Mi.
• In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show.

## Day 2: Hanoi City Tour

• Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Presidential Palace.
• Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university.
• Afternoon stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake.
• Dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps try Cha Ca (grilled fish).

## Day 3: Day Trip to Ninh Binh

• Take a day trip to Ninh Binh (about 2 hours from Hanoi).
• Explore Tam Coc by boat, surrounded by stunning limestone karsts.
• Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.
• Return to Hanoi for the night.

## Day 4-6: Halong Bay

## Day 4: Travel to Halong Bay

• Depart for Halong Bay (around 4 hours).
• Board a cruise and enjoy lunch on the boat.
• Explore Sung Sot Cave and swim at Ti Top Island.
• Overnight on the cruise.

## Day 5: Halong Bay Exploration

• Continue your cruise, visiting fishing villages and kayaking.
• Enjoy a cooking class on board.
• Spend another night on the cruise, soaking in the views.

## Day 6: Return to Hanoi

• Enjoy breakfast on the boat, then return to the harbor.
• Head back to Hanoi and spend the evening at leisure. Perhaps visit a local market.

## Day 7-9: Sapa

## Day 7: Travel to Sapa

• Take an overnight train or bus to Sapa.
• Arrive and check into your hotel.
• Explore the town and visit the local market.

## Day 8: Trekking in Sapa

• Go on a guided trek to Cat Cat Village and see the stunning rice terraces.
• Enjoy lunch with a local family.
• Return to Sapa for a cozy dinner.

## Day 9: More Sapa Adventures

• Visit Lao Chai and Ta Van villages.
• Experience the local culture and perhaps buy some handicrafts.
• Return to your hotel and prepare for the journey back to Hanoi.

## Day 10-12: Hue

## Day 10: Travel to Hue

• Head back to Hanoi and take a flight or train to Hue.
• Check into your hotel and relax.
• Visit the Imperial City in the evening.

## Day 11: Explore Hue

• Visit the Tombs of the Emperors (Khai Dinh and Minh Mang).
• Take a boat ride on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda.
• Enjoy a traditional royal dinner.

## Day 12: Day Trip to Phong Nha

• Take a day trip to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
• Explore the stunning caves, like Paradise Cave or Phong Nha Cave.
• Return to Hue for the night.

## Day 13-15: Hoi An

## Day 13: Travel to Hoi An

• Drive from Hue to Hoi An via the scenic Hai Van Pass.
• Check into your hotel and explore the ancient town.
• Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant.

## Day 14: Hoi An Exploration

• Take a cooking class in the morning.
• Spend the afternoon at An Bang Beach or take a bike ride through the countryside.
• In the evening, enjoy the lantern festival (if it coincides with your visit).

## Day 15: My Son Sanctuary

• Visit the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Spend the afternoon shopping in Hoi An or relaxing at the beach.
• Dinner at a local eatery.

## Day 16-18: Nha Trang

## Day 16: Travel to Nha Trang

• Fly from Da Nang to Nha Trang.
• Check into your beach resort and relax.
• Enjoy a sunset walk along the beach.

## Day 17: Beach Day

• Spend the day at the beach or take a boat tour to nearby islands.
• Snorkeling or diving can be a fun option!
• Dinner at a seafood restaurant.

## Day 18: Explore Nha Trang

• Visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers and Long Son Pagoda.
• Relax at the hot springs or mud baths.
• Enjoy a romantic dinner by the beach.

## Day 19-21: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

## Day 19: Travel to Ho Chi Minh City

• Fly from Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City.
• Check into your hotel and explore Ben Thanh Market.
• Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with a view of the skyline.

## Day 20: City Tour

• Visit the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace.
• Explore Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office.
• In the evening, take a food tour to sample local delicacies.

## Day 21: Mekong Delta Day Trip

• Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta.
• Explore the waterways, visit local villages, and enjoy a traditional lunch.
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City for your last night.

## Day 22: Departure

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute shopping.
• Depending on your flight time, you might squeeze in a visit to the Jade Emperor Pagoda.
• Head to the airport for your departure.

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This itinerary offers a mix of bustling cities and tranquil spots, perfect for creating unforgettable memories with your girlfriend. Enjoy your adventure in Vietnam! 🌏❤️