Experience the best of Vietnam with this 14 days Vietnam itinerary, a perfect 2 weeks Vietnam trip combining culture, nature, and local life.
Highlights of 14 Days Vietnam Itinerary
Embark on a 14-day journey through Vietnam that seamlessly blends heritage, adventure, and authentic cultural encounters. This carefully crafted itinerary takes you from the historic capital of Hanoi, with its tree-lined boulevards and timeless Old Quarter, to the breathtaking seascapes of Halong Bay, where you’ll cruise among limestone karsts and hidden lagoons. In Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land,” drift along tranquil rivers between towering mountains before continuing south to the mystical caves of Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. You’ll trace wartime history in the Vinh Moc Tunnels, then immerse yourself in imperial grandeur in Hue, exploring ancient citadels, royal tombs, and pagodas. Discover the charm of Hoi An, a lantern-lit trading port where traditional handicrafts and riverside life remain beautifully preserved. Flying south, experience the energy of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) with its blend of colonial landmarks, bustling markets, and Chinese temples, before venturing into the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta for an intimate look at rural life, floating markets, and home-hosted meals.
With its perfect balance of history, culture, nature, and local connections, this 2 weeks Vietnam trip is the ultimate way to uncover the essence of Vietnam from north to south.
| TOUR START | Hanoi, Vietnam |
| TOUR END | Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam |
| INCLUDED | Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle with driver; Train ticket Hanoi – Dong Hoi (sharing A/C 4-soft sleepers’ cabin); Air ticket Danang – Saigon; Accommodation in hotels (shared twin room); Meals as indicated: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D= Dinner; English speaking guides; Entrance fee to indicated sights; Water puppet show; Cyclo tour, boat trips; Join cruise on Halong Bay; Waters & cool towels on the van. |
| NOT INCLUDED | Other meals, tip, drinks, international flights & airport tax, single room, personal expenses, insurance… |
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Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – The Gateway to Vietnam
Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, you will be warmly greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in the city center. The rest of the day is free at leisure, giving you time to rest after your long journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to start your 14 days Vietnam itinerary by taking a gentle stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, where locals gather for tai chi in the morning and evening walks by night. This first day is intentionally light, allowing you to acclimatize and begin soaking in the atmosphere of Vietnam’s capital.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 2: Hanoi – A Full Day of Discovery
Your first full day begins with a Cyclo ride through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where narrow streets bustle with traders, cafes, and street vendors. This immersive introduction allows you to witness the daily life of Hanoians in one of the oldest parts of the city. The ride then continues through the elegant French Quarter, its wide boulevards and colonial architecture earning Hanoi the nickname “Paris of the East.”
Next, a guided walk takes you to Ngoc Ha Village, a pocket of traditional community life tucked within the modern city. From there, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the revered site where the nation’s father is laid to rest, as well as the Presidential Palace, his stilt house, and the iconic One Pillar Pagoda.
Continue to the Temple of Literature, dedicated to Confucius and once Vietnam’s first university, where scholars studied literature and philosophy. Lunch is served at Season of Hanoi Restaurant, known for authentic northern cuisine.
In the afternoon, explore the Ethnology Museum, an insightful showcase of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. Unlike many museums, its artifacts are still used in daily life, giving visitors a living portrait of culture and tradition. Returning to the Old Quarter, enjoy a short walking tour before attending a Water Puppet Show, an ancient art form born in the Red River Delta.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay Cruise Adventure
After breakfast, travel through the Red River Delta, where rice paddies stretch endlessly, farmers work with buffalo, and village life unfolds along the roadside. Upon reaching Halong, board the Dragon Pearl Junk, a traditional wooden boat designed in authentic Vietnamese style.
After a welcome drink and briefing, settle into your cabin before enjoying lunch as the junk sails into the limestone wonderland of Bai Tu Long Bay. In the afternoon, anchor near Cap La Fishing Village, where you can explore the bay by kayak. Paddle past towering cliffs, hidden coves, and floating homes before returning to the junk for a swim in the emerald waters.
As the sun sets, relax on deck with a drink in hand and admire the scenery as the junk anchors in Cong Do. Dinner is served on board, a feast of fresh seafood prepared by the crew. Fall asleep to the gentle rocking of the boat under a sky filled with stars.
Overnight on Dragon Pearl Junk.
Day 4: Halong Bay - Ninh Binh
Wake to the tranquility of Halong Bay. The morning is yours to swim or simply admire the dawn from the deck. As the junk cruises back toward the harbor, enjoy an à la carte lunch on board.
Disembark around midday and transfer by road to Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land” for its dramatic limestone mountains and winding rivers. After check-in, enjoy dinner at your hotel and a restful evening.
Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Day 5: Ninh Binh Exploration – Night Train to Dong Hoi
Today you step back in time at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries. Visit the temples of the Dinh and Le dynasties before continuing to Tam Coc, where you board a small sampan rowed by locals. Glide along the Ngo Dong River, flanked by rice paddies and karst cliffs, and pass through three natural caves that give Tam Coc its name.
After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Bich Dong Pagoda, nestled into a limestone mountain. Continue to Mua Cave, where a short trek up 500 steps rewards you with panoramic views of Tam Coc’s breathtaking scenery. This climb is best experienced in the soft light of morning or late afternoon.
In the evening, transfer to Ninh Binh Railway Station for the overnight train south to Dong Hoi. The overnight train offers a unique opportunity to experience travel as the locals do, as the rhythmic clatter of wheels lulls you to sleep.
Overnight on train.
Day 6: Dong Hoi – Phong Nha Caves – Quang Binh
Arrive in Dong Hoi early morning and enjoy breakfast before driving to Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Board a boat along the Son River, passing limestone mountains and small riverside villages, before entering the Phong Nha Cave, famed for its underground river – one of the longest in the world. Admire the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites as you glide into its cool chambers.
Check in at Phong Nha Lake House Resort, a charming lodge beside a tranquil lake. In the afternoon, join local activities such as fishing, gardening, or even playing volleyball with village youth. This hands-on interaction provides a unique cultural experience.
Overnight in Phong Nha Lake House.
Day 7: Biking and Trekking Adventure in Phong Nha
After a restful night, embark on a day of adventure. Cycle along quiet paths that follow the Ho Chi Minh Trail, stopping at Tam Co Cave, a memorial site from the Vietnam War. Continue to the Nuoc Mooc Cold Spring, where you can hike through lush jungle trails and swim in crystal-clear waters fed by underground springs.
On your return, keep an eye out for the endangered Ha Tinh Langur monkeys that inhabit the area. Return to the Lake House in the evening, tired but fulfilled by the day’s mix of history, nature, and adventure.
Overnight in Phong Nha Lake House.
Day 8: Quang Binh – Vinh Moc Tunnels – Hue
Travel south today, stopping at the Vinh Moc Tunnels, a remarkable underground network built by villagers during the war. Unlike the Cu Chi tunnels near Saigon, these were large enough to house entire families and include kitchens, wells, and living areas.
Nearby, visit Cua Tung Beach, once dubbed the “Queen of Beaches” by French colonials, before continuing to Hue, Vietnam’s imperial capital and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The evening is free to explore the city at leisure.
Overnight in Hue.
Day 9: Hue City Tour – Imperial Heritage
This morning, ride a cyclo across the famous Trang Tien Bridge and into the bustling Dong Ba Market, where locals shop for daily essentials. Continue into the Imperial Citadel, home to the Nguyen Dynasty emperors. Explore the Flag Tower, Noon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, Nine Dynastic Urns, Nine Holy Cannons, and the remnants of the Forbidden Purple City.
At noon, visit Dong Thien Pagoda, where nuns run a kindergarten for underprivileged children. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch prepared by the nuns and spend time learning about their daily life. In the afternoon, visit the elaborate Tomb of Tu Duc, one of Hue’s most beautiful royal mausoleums, set amidst lakes and pine forests.
Optional evening activity: a home-hosted dinner in the garden house of Professor Phan Thuan An, once home to Princess Ngoc Son.
Overnight in Hue.
Day 10: Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An
Begin with a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, the symbol of Hue perched by the Perfume River. Walk through Kim Long Village to see traditional houses and meet locals before departing for Da Nang.
In Da Nang, explore the Cham Museum, housing an exceptional collection of Cham sculptures dating from the 4th to 13th centuries. After lunch at Apsara Restaurant, continue to Hoi An, stopping briefly at China Beach. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take an orientation walk through the lantern-lit streets of this enchanting town.
Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 11: Hoi An – Cultural Immersion and River Life
Spend the morning walking through Hoi An Ancient Town, beginning with the Thang Loi Handicraft Workshop to observe artisans practicing wood carving, mat weaving, lantern making, and embroidery. Continue along narrow lanes to the Japanese Covered Bridge, then to Tan Ky Ancient House, and finally the vibrant local market and Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, dedicated to the sea goddess.
In the afternoon, embark on a cyclo ride to Cam Nam Village, stopping for photos along the Thu Bon River. Cycle through peaceful villages where doors remain open, reflecting the warmth of the people. At the water coconut canals, board a boat for a cruise along the Thu Bon River, observing fishing and farming practices before returning to town at sunset.
Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 12: Hoi An – Da Nang – Saigon
Transfer to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). On arrival, visit the Reunification Palace, a symbol of the country’s modern history, followed by the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office, both fine examples of French colonial architecture.
After lunch at Pho 2000 Restaurant, tour Chinatown (Cho Lon), home to vibrant markets and temples. Visit the Thien Hau Pagoda, dedicated to the sea goddess, and explore the bustling Cho Lon Market with its mix of commerce and culture.
Overnight in Saigon.
Day 13: Saigon – Mekong Delta Excursion
Today’s full-day trip takes you to the Mekong Delta, Vietnam’s “rice bowl.” Drive to Cai Be, where you board the Mekong Queen, a traditional wooden boat. Cruise past orchards and stilt houses, sampling tropical fruits and enjoying the cool river breeze.
Visit local workshops producing rice paper, coconut rope hammocks, and water hyacinth handicrafts. Disembark at Tan Phong Island for a cycling tour through shaded village paths, stopping at family homes to learn about traditional crafts. For those who prefer, a motorbike option is available.
Enjoy a home-hosted lunch featuring Mekong specialties in an ancient house before returning to Saigon in the evening.
Overnight in Saigon.
Day 14: Saigon – Departure
Your final morning is free to relax, shop for souvenirs, or simply enjoy the energy of Saigon. At the appointed time, transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable trip.
From Hanoi to the Mekong Delta, our 14 days Vietnam itinerary offers the ultimate 2 weeks Vietnam trip full of heritage, adventure, and authentic encounters.
