Itinerary for 23 day trip to Vietnam

Vietnam is a stunning country with a rich tapestry of culture, nature, and mouthwatering cuisine. With 23 days to explore, we can craft an itinerary that takes you off the beaten path while still hitting some of the highlights. Let’s dive in!

Day 1-3: Hanoi

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Settle into your accommodation.
Stroll around and visit .
Enjoy a bowl of Pho at a local eatery.

Day 2: Explore Hanoi

Visit the and the .
Lunch at a street vendor for Banh Mi.
In the afternoon, explore the and try some egg coffee.

Day 3: Nature Day Trip

Take a day trip to Tam Coc (Ninh Binh). Rent a bike and explore the countryside, then take a boat ride through the rice paddies and limestone karsts.
Enjoy local specialties like Ninh Binh goat meat for dinner.

Day 4-6: Sapa

Day 4: Travel to Sapa

Take an overnight train or bus to Sapa.
Arrive and check into your accommodation.
Explore the town and enjoy a local dinner.

Day 5: Trekking in Sapa

Go on a guided trek to and .
Experience the stunning rice terraces and meet local ethnic minorities.
Try local dishes like thang co (a traditional horse meat soup).

Day 6: More Trekking

Trek to and villages.
Visit a local market if it’s a Sunday.
Return to Sapa for a cozy dinner.

Day 7-9: Ha Giang

Day 7: Travel to Ha Giang

Head to Ha Giang by bus (it’s a bit of a journey, but the scenery is breathtaking).
Check into a local homestay.

Day 8: Ha Giang Loop

Start the Ha Giang Loop! Visit and .
Enjoy the stunning landscapes and local food like thang co.

Day 9: Continue the Loop

Explore and take in the views.
Visit local markets and try local rice wine.
Return to Ha Giang for the night.

Day 10-12: Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Day 10: Travel to Phong Nha

Head to Phong Nha by bus.
Check into a guesthouse and relax.

Day 11: Cave Exploration

Visit and take a boat tour.
Try local dishes like bun bo (beef noodle soup) for dinner.

Day 12: More Caves

Explore and (try zip-lining!).
Enjoy a quiet evening with some local beer.

Day 13-15: Hue

Day 13: Travel to Hue

Take a bus to Hue.
Visit the and enjoy a traditional royal meal.

Day 14: Explore Hue

Visit and take a boat ride on the Perfume River.
Try bun bo Hue for lunch.

Day 15: Nature and Relaxation

Take a day trip to or for some hiking.
Enjoy fresh seafood by the beach.

Day 16-18: Hoi An

Day 16: Travel to Hoi An

Head to Hoi An by bus.
Explore the ancient town and enjoy a Cao Lau for dinner.

Day 17: Cooking Class

Take a cooking class in the morning.
Spend the afternoon cycling to the nearby .
Enjoy a quiet evening by the river.

Day 18: Beach Day

Relax at .
Try some local seafood and enjoy the sunset.

Day 19-21: Mekong Delta

Day 19: Travel to Mekong Delta

Head to Can Tho.
Explore the local market and try hu tieu (noodle soup).

Day 20: Floating Markets

Visit the early in the morning.
Take a boat tour through the canals and visit local farms.

Day 21: Explore More

Visit for coconut candy and local handicrafts.
Enjoy a homestay experience with a local family.

Day 22-23: Ho Chi Minh City

Day 22: Travel to Ho Chi Minh City

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City.
Visit the and .
Enjoy a farewell dinner with pho or banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes).

Day 23: Departure

Last-minute shopping or exploring.
Head to the airport for your departure.

Final Thoughts

This itinerary balances nature, culture, and food while steering clear of overly touristy spots. You’ll get to experience the heart and soul of Vietnam, from the mountains of Sapa to the lush Mekong Delta. Enjoy your adventure, and don’t forget to savor every bite of the delicious Vietnamese cuisine along the way! Safe travels! 🌏✈️🍜