Vietnam, a land of ancient temples, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes, offers a captivating journey for any traveler. With its rich cultural tapestry, delicious cuisine, and welcoming people, it’s no wonder Vietnam is a top destination for adventurers and cultural enthusiasts alike. This article will guide you through a comprehensive 2-week itinerary for exploring Vietnam from north to south, ensuring you experience the best the country has to offer.

Vietnam Travel North to South

Embarking on a journey through Vietnam from north to south will take you through diverse regions, each with its own unique charm and character. From the bustling capital of Hanoi in the north to the vibrant metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City in the south, this 2-week itinerary will give you a taste of all that Vietnam has to offer.

Brief itinerary

To make the most out of your trip, we recommend starting in the north and making your way down to the south. This will allow you to gradually immerse yourself in the culture and history of the country, while also experiencing the natural beauty and diverse landscapes along the way.

Tips before your trip

Before we dive into the detailed itinerary, here are some important things to keep in mind for your trip: • The best time to visit Vietnam is from December to April, when the weather is dry and pleasant.

• Make sure to have your visa and vaccinations in order before traveling.

• Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the local currency, and US dollars are also widely accepted.

• English is not widely spoken outside major cities, so it’s helpful to learn some basic Vietnamese phrases.

Now, let’s get started on our adventure through Vietnam from north to south!

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Week 1: Northern Delights

The first week of your trip will be spent in the northern region of Vietnam, where you will explore the bustling city of Hanoi, the natural wonders of Halong Bay, and the historic towns of Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An.

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi - Explore the Old Quarter

Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital! Upon your arrival, settle into your accommodation and get ready to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant energy.

• Visit the Hoan Kiem Lake
  Take a leisurely stroll around this serene lake, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Admire the iconic Ngoc Son Temple, located on a small island in the middle of the lake. Legend has it that Emperor Le Loi received a magical sword from a turtle in this lake, which he then used to defeat the Chinese army. The temple is dedicated to this legend and is a must-visit attraction in Hanoi.

• Wander Through the Old Quarter
  Get lost in the charming maze of streets teeming with life. The Old Quarter is a perfect blend of old-world charm and modernization, with narrow streets lined with traditional shop houses selling everything from souvenirs to street food. Take your time to wander through the streets, discover local artisans, sample street food treats, and soak in the authentic atmosphere.

• Sample Vietnamese Cuisine
  No trip to Vietnam is complete without indulging in the delicious local cuisine. From steaming bowls of pho to crispy banh mi sandwiches, there’s no shortage of mouth-watering dishes to try in Hanoi. Head to the Old Quarter’s food stalls or sit down at a local restaurant to taste some of the best dishes Vietnam has to offer.

Day 2: Unveiling Hanoi's History and Culture

Dive deeper into Hanoi's fascinating history and culture by exploring some of its iconic landmarks and attractions.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
  Start your day at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of Vietnam’s most beloved leader. This impressive structure is a symbol of respect and admiration for Ho Chi Minh, who played a crucial role in the country’s fight for independence. Make sure to dress respectfully and follow the strict rules when visiting.

• Temple of Literature
  Next, head to the Temple of Literature, one of Hanoi’s oldest and most well-preserved landmarks. This Confucian temple was built in 1070 and served as Vietnam’s first university. Take a walk through the peaceful gardens and admire the beautiful architecture and intricate details of this historic site.

• Hoa Lo Prison
  For a sobering but important part of Vietnam’s history, visit the Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton.” This former prison was used by French colonists to detain political prisoners during the First Indochina War, and later by North Vietnam to hold American prisoners of war. Today, it serves as a museum that sheds light on the atrocities committed during this time.

Day 3: Cruise Through Halong Bay

No trip to northern Vietnam would be complete without a visit to the stunning Ha Long Bay. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts thousands of limestone islands and islets rising from the emerald waters, creating a breathtaking natural landscape like no other.

• Cruise or Kayak
  There are many ways to explore Halong Bay, but the most popular is by boat. You can choose to join a day tour or spend a night on a traditional junk boat, taking in the stunning scenery as you sail through the bay. For a more active experience, you can also rent a kayak and paddle your way through the limestone formations.

• Experience Local Life
  Aside from the stunning natural beauty, Halong Bay is also home to several floating villages where locals live and work. Take a guided tour to learn about their daily life and witness their fishing techniques. You can also try your hand at squid fishing in the evening – a unique experience not to be missed.

Day 4: Discover Masterpiece of Nature

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, is a popular tourist destination with its stunning limestone islets and majestic caves.

• Sung Sot Cave
  Sung Sot Cave is the largest, most famous, and most visited cave in Halong Bay. The cave was first found in 1901 by French travelers and called Grotte Des Surprises (The Cave of Surprises) in a travel book established in 1938. Despite a small gate, the cave dazzles visitors with its giant inner space, which probably explains the “Surprising” name.

• Thien Cung Cave
  The cave is believed to be related to a legend about an ancient Dragon King, who defeated invaders and returned to his cave, refusing to be awarded. Afterward, Dragon Prince married to a girl named May. The wedding took place inside the cave with the visit of many dragons, huge pythons, and giant eagles. Wandering around the Northside, you can see the scene engraved on the wall and stones. That is the reason for the cave’s name – Thien Cung Cave (which means “Heaven Palace”).

Day 5: Visit the Imperial City and royal tombs

Coming to Hue, you have to visit Hue tombs, designed by Nguyen Dynasty kings, evoke a forgotten, mythological world. They reflect their temperaments, philosophies, and priorities, and also tell the story of Vietnam's historical period, including national unification, military conquest, and French colonialism.

Emperor Minh Mạng, a Hue ruler, ruled a large empire, suppressing rebellions and resisting European threats. His tomb, completed in 1843, reflects military vigor and cultural conservatism. The tomb features ponds and pine-covered hills, and his final resting place is hidden behind a locked gate.

Emperor Tự Đức, a passionate art and poetry enthusiast, created a romantic tomb for Tu Duc, blending with nature. Despite a weakened Vietnam, Tu Duc enjoyed his tomb, writing poetry and fishing. Rumor suggests he was laid to rest in another location to protect his treasures.

Day 6: Explore the beauty of Nature in Da Nang

Traveling from Hue to Da Nang via the Hai Van Pass is a journey that offers some of the most breathtaking views in Vietnam. This route provides stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the lush green mountains. As you wind through the pass, you can stop at various lookout points to capture the spectacular scenery and take in the fresh mountain air.

Marble Mountains, a group of five limestone peaks in Central Vietnam, are named after the elements Kim, Thuỷ, Mộc, Hoả, and Thổ. They hold significant spiritual significance for the ancient Cham and Vietnamese emperors. Today, they feature caves, tunnels, towers, and pagodas built by Mahayana Buddhists and Nguyen Dynasty Kings, blending harmoniously with nature.

My Khe Beach in Da Nang, with its fine, white sand stretching for miles, clear blue water, gentle waves, and warm water year-round, is an absolute must-visit destination. My Khe Beach is located right in the city of Da Nang, a modern and developed tourist city, making travel extremely convenient and easy.

Day 7: Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

After a relaxing day on Halong Bay, it’s time to head south to Hoi An, a charming town known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and lantern-lit streets. Spend the day exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site and soaking in its unique atmosphere.

Start your day with a walking tour of the Old Town, where you’ll see Chinese temples, Japanese bridges, and French colonial buildings. Don’t miss the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, which connects two parts of the town and is a popular spot for photos.

Hoi An is also known as the tailoring capital of Vietnam, so why not take advantage and get some clothes made? Visit one of the many tailor shops in town and choose from a wide selection of fabrics and designs to create your own custom-made clothing piece.

In the evening, join a lantern-making workshop to learn about this traditional craft that has been passed down through generations in Hoi An. Take home your very own handmade lantern as a souvenir or gift for loved ones.

Week 2: Southern Charms

The second week of your trip will take you through the southern region of Vietnam, where you’ll explore the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City, enjoy the beauty of nature in Da Lat and Nha Trang, and the idyllic Mekong Delta.

Day 8: Visit the beach lover's paradise

Explore the charm of Nha Trang, Vietnam, a beach lover's paradise where blue waves meet golden sands. This place is also a haven for culture vultures. Here are some pocket tips for your trip to Nha Trang Vietnam Travel.

Hon Mun Island is a popular tourist destination located near Nha Trang, Vietnam. It's known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and diverse marine life. You can get to Hon Mun Island by taking a boat from Cau Da Port in Nha Trang.

Hon Tam Island, located in Nha Trang Gulf, offers a blend of pristine and modern beauty, featuring tropical forests, golden sand, and top-notch resorts. At 7 km southeast of the city center, it attracts thousands of tourists annually.

Tri Nguyen Aquarium, also known as Hon Mieu Aquarium, is situated on Hon Mieu Island, the most crowded in Nha Trang, near the seashore. The island is also known as Bong Nguyen Island, the heaven island, due to its magnificent beauty.

Day 9: Visit the Land for Flowers Lover

Hidden away in the Central Highlands, Da Lat plays the cooler cousin to Vietnam's seaside destinations. Famous for its countryside charm, Da Lat draws couples, wellness seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Da Lat, a charming city in Vietnam, is known for its Dalat Valley of Love, a romantic destination with stunning landscapes, serene lakes, and vibrant flower gardens, offering couples and nature enthusiasts a peaceful retreat.

Dalat Flower Park, renowned for its diverse flower collection, offers visitors a breathtaking experience in nature, making it an ideal destination for horticulturists and those seeking relaxation.

Day 10: Admire the Amazing of the Nature

Xuan Huong Lake is always a top attraction for any Dalat travel itinerary. With a harmonious combination of stunning landscapes, exciting activities, and irresistible food, this lake has become a must-visit for tourists coming to Dalat.

Bao Dai Palace, located in Dalat, Vietnam, was the residence of the last emperor of Vietnam from 1926 to 1945. Built in 1933, it blends French and Vietnamese architectural styles. Today, it serves as a museum, showcasing Bao Dai's life, preserved interiors, and artifacts from his short reign as Chief of State from 1949 to 1955.

Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of the Central Highlands, Datanla Waterfalls in Da Lat boasts a captivating blend of untouched wilderness and adventurous allure, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. This attraction is continuously evolving, introducing an array of exciting new attractions annually.

Day 11: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon), the most populous city in Vietnam and the economic hub of the country. Upon your arrival, check into your accommodation and get ready to embark on a journey through this vibrant city.

The Independence Palace in Vietnam symbolizes Vietnam's victory, peace, and territorial integrity, boasting a glamorous design, luxurious rooms, and an expansive exterior space, making it an ideal escape from Southern Vietnam's heat.

Ho Chi Minh City, a financial hub, boasts historical attractions like Notre Dame Cathedral, attracting both domestic and international tourists.

During your trip in Ho Chi Minh City, besides exploring numerous stunning attractions and enjoying delectable local specialties, you should not miss out on an opportunity to visit Saigon Central Post Office.

Day 12: Relive the Old Time in Ho Chi Minh City

To learn about Vietnam’s tumultuous history, visit the War Remnants Museum, which showcases the country’s struggle for independence and the effects of the Vietnam War. This museum may be a difficult experience for some, but it provides important insights into the country’s past.

Today, take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Explore the tunnels and learn about their significance in the war effort. You can also try your hand at shooting a real AK-47 rifle at the shooting range.

Start your exploration at Ben Thanh Market, a bustling indoor market where you’ll find everything from clothing and souvenirs to local street food. This market is a great place to get a taste of the city’s culture and lifestyle.

If Hanoi has Ta Hien Street, then Saigon has the equally interesting and bustling Bui Vien Street. Following the history of Bui Vien Street, it is named so due to the large concentration of foreign tourists from Europe to America who come to visit. Therefore, the pedestrian street boasts a diversity of culture, cuisine, and more.

Day 13: Floating Markets of the Mekong Delta

No trip to the south of Vietnam would be complete without a visit to the Mekong Delta, a vast network of canals and rivers that support the region’s agricultural industry. Take a boat tour of the floating markets to see locals buying and selling goods from their boats and get a glimpse into their daily life.

Visit the Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest of its kind in the region. The market starts early in the morning, so make sure to wake up early to catch the action. You can also take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes using ingredients bought at the market.

In addition to the floating markets, you can also visit local villages on the delta to learn about traditional crafts such as rice paper-making and coconut candy production. You can also enjoy a home-cooked meal with a local family, providing an authentic cultural experience.

Day 14: End of the Journey

As your two-week journey through Vietnam concludes, you'll appreciate its diverse beauty and rich culture. From Hanoi's bustling streets to Halong Bay's natural wonders, each destination offers unique experiences. The vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and delicious cuisine leave a lasting impression. Explore the Marble Mountains, My Khe's beaches, and Hue's imperial city. As you leave, you'll appreciate the enchanting landscapes, resilient people, and timeless traditions that make Vietnam an extraordinary travel destination.

Conclusion

Vietnam offers a diverse and unforgettable travel experience, from bustling cities to serene natural landscapes. With this comprehensive 2-week itinerary from north to south, you’ll get a taste of all that this beautiful country has to offer. From the ancient temples and vibrant cities to the breathtaking landscapes and delicious cuisine, Vietnam will leave you with lasting memories and a desire to return again and again. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Vietnam! To make your trip even more special, why not explore Vietnam with a local buddy by your side? Tubudd connects you with friendly and knowledgeable locals who can provide insider tips, personalized tours, and unique cultural experiences. Whether you want to discover hidden gems, try authentic Vietnamese dishes, or simply have a companion to share your adventure, Tubudd ensures you experience Vietnam like a true local.

Discover Vietnam the way it was meant to be experienced – with a local buddy by your side. Download the Tubudd app and start finding your ideal travel buddy today!

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