Two weeks is the classic length for a first trip: long enough to cross the country and feel the difference between north, centre and south, short enough to keep the pace comfortable. This route uses two domestic flights to avoid long overland days, and it keeps you in each place for at least two nights.
Best time to go: There is no perfect month for the whole country, because the north is coolest from December to February while the south is driest at the same time. March to April is a good compromise, with mild weather nationwide. Avoid the weeks around Tet (lunar new year) unless you want to see it, because many businesses close.
Days 1-3: Hanoi
Old Quarter walking, the Temple of Literature, the Mausoleum area and a street food tour. Leave one evening open for a water puppet show or a drink on Ta Hien street.
Days 4-5: Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay
Day four is Ninh Binh (boat through the caves at Trang An, Mua Cave viewpoint). Travel on to Ha Long Bay and board an overnight cruise. Return to Hanoi on day five and fly south in the evening if flights allow, or stay one more night.
Days 6-7: Hue
Fly Hanoi to Hue. Spend one day at the Imperial Citadel and a day by bike or boat among the royal tombs and the Thien Mu Pagoda.
Days 8-10: Hoi An
Travel over the Hai Van Pass to Hoi An. Spend three nights there: the Old Town, a beach afternoon, a cooking class and a morning trip to My Son. This is the slowest part of the trip, so use it to rest.
Days 11-12: Ho Chi Minh City
Fly from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City. Visit the War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral and the central post office, and try the street food around Ben Thanh Market. A half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels works well on day twelve.
Days 13-14: Mekong Delta
Take a 2-day trip to the Delta: a boat through the canals of Ben Tre, a floating market in Can Tho in the early morning, and a night at a homestay. Return to Ho Chi Minh City to fly home.
Practical tips
- Book the two domestic flights (Hanoi to Hue and Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City) as soon as your dates are firm.
- Pack lightly: laundry is cheap and quick everywhere.
- Travel insurance and an eSIM are worth sorting out before you leave.
- If you want more beach time, swap the Mekong for 2 nights in Phu Quoc.
Next step: Start with the [Hanoi] guide, then follow the route city by city.
