Best Vietnam Travel Itinerary Guide: 3 Days to 3 Weeks

Coco Tran • Curated Travel Journal • Travel Blog by Coco Tran https://cocotran.com/best-vietnam-travel-itinerary-guide/

After multiple trips to Vietnam—including my 10 day and 3 week vietnam adventure from Hanoi through central Vietnam down to Ho Chi Minh City—I’ve learned that planning the perfect Vietnam itinerary isn’t about checking off destinations. It’s about finding the right rhythm between bustling cities, serene landscapes, and those unexpected moments that make travel meaningful. Here’s a helpful guide I created with all the intel I gathered and researched with my personal experience and recommendations. Enjoy!

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best Vietnam Travel Itinerary Guide: 3 Days to 3 Weeks

Quick Overview: How many days in Vietnam is enough?

I am often asked how long is the best time to stay in Vietnam. Here are my recommendations for the best itinerary for different travelers and time constraints. 

I recommend:

  • 7 days in Vietnam: Perfect for a focused northern or southern experience
  • 10 days in Vietnam: Enough to sample the highlights, though you’ll be moving quickly
  • 2 weeks in Vietnam : The sweet spot for most travelers
  • 3 weeks in Vietnam: My personal recommendation for a deeper connection

Helpful Tip: Vietnam is deceptively large—it takes 36 hours to travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train. While budget airlines make connections easier, don’t underestimate travel times when planning.

Coco Tran • Curated Travel Journal • Travel Blog by Coco Tran https://cocotran.com/best-vietnam-travel-itinerary-guide/

How to Choose Your Perfect Vietnam Trip Length

Deciding how long to spend in Vietnam depends on several key factors. After multiple visits, I’ve learned that considering these elements will help you plan the ideal duration: 

Available Time Off

  • 3-5 days: Focus on one major city (Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh)
  • 7-10 days: Explore one region thoroughly (North, Central, or South)
  • 2 weeks: Cover two regions comfortably
  • 3 weeks: Experience all three regions without rushing

Travel Style

  • Fast-paced explorers: Can cover more ground in less time, suitable for 7-10 day trips
  • Slow travelers: Need at least 2 weeks to feel satisfied
  • Culture enthusiasts: Minimum 2 weeks to truly immerse
  • Beach lovers: 10 days split between central and southern coasts
  • Food focused: At least 10 days to explore regional cuisines
Coco Tran • Curated Travel Journal • Travel Blog by Coco Tran https://cocotran.com/best-vietnam-travel-itinerary-guide/

Where should I go for the first time in Vietnam?

As a first-time visitor to Vietnam, choosing where to start can feel overwhelming. After multiple visits and guiding friends through their first trips, here’s my tried-and-tested advice:

Best Starting Points

Hanoi (My Top Recommendation) I always recommend starting in Hanoi because it offers:

  • The most authentic Vietnamese cultural experience
  • Easy access to major attractions (Halong Bay, Sapa)
  • Walkable Old Quarter for gentle introduction
  • Best street food scene for beginners
  • Easier adjustment to Vietnamese city life

Ho Chi Minh City Alternative Consider starting here if you:

  • Prefer modern amenities
  • Want warmer weather year-round
  • Are interested in war history
  • Plan to continue to Cambodia
  • Like bigger, more cosmopolitan cities

First-Timer Vietnam Must Visit Destinations

If You Have 7 Days: Choose ONE of these regional focuses:

  1. Northern Circuit
  1. Southern Experience
  • Ho Chi Minh City (3 days)
  • Mekong Delta (2 days)
  • Can Tho (2 days)
  1. Central Highlights
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If You Have 15 Days or more: My recommended first-timer route:

Days 1-4: Hanoi

  • Day 1: Old Quarter exploration
  • Day 2: Historical sites
  • Day 3: Street food tour
  • Day 4: Day trip to Ninh Binh
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Where to Stay:

Days 5-6: Halong Bay

  • 2-day, 1-night cruise minimum
  • Recommended: Paradise Cruise or Indochina Sails

Days 7-9: Hoi An

  • Ancient Town wandering
  • Cooking class
  • Beach time
  • Tailor visits

Where to Stay in Hoi an

Days 10-11: Da Nang

Where to Stay Danang:

Days 12-15: Ho Chi Minh City

  • Day 12: City exploration
  • Day 13: Cu Chi Tunnels
  • Day 14: Mekong Delta day trip
  • Day 15: Markets and departure

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City:

Coco Tran • Curated Travel Journal • Travel Blog by Coco Tran https://cocotran.com/best-vietnam-travel-itinerary-guide/

Best Time to Visit Vietnam overall

if you’re wondering What is the best season to visit Vietnam? Having experienced Vietnam in different seasons, here’s my honest take:

  • Best Overall: February to April (dry season, moderate temperatures)
  • Most Expensive: December-January (peak season)
  • Budget-Friendly: May-June (shoulder season)
  • Avoid: July-September (monsoon season)

What is the best season to visit Vietnam?

Dry Season in vietnam (November to April)

Advantages:

  • Less rain
  • Lower humidity
  • Better for photography
  • Easier travel conditions

Disadvantages:

  • Higher prices
  • More tourists
  • Need to book in advance
  • Can be chilly in the north

Wet Season in Vietnam (May to October)

Advantages:

  • Lush landscapes
  • Lower prices
  • Fewer tourists
  • Better deals

Disadvantages:

  • Afternoon rains
  • Higher humidity
  • Some activities cancelled
  • Flooding potential
Coco Tran • Curated Travel Journal • Travel Blog by Coco Tran https://cocotran.com/best-vietnam-travel-itinerary-guide/

Insider Tips for Seasonal Travel vietnam

  1. Shoulder Season Secrets (April-May & September-October)
  • Better hotel rates
  • Smaller crowds
  • Generally good weather
  • More authentic experiences
  1. Festival Considerations
  • Tet (Lunar New Year): Exciting but expensive
  • Mid-Autumn Festival: Beautiful lantern displays
  • Independence Day (September 2): Patriotic celebrations
  1. Weather Hack If traveling during wet season:
  • Schedule activities for mornings
  • Book flexible accommodations
  • Have indoor backup plans
  • Choose hotels near attractions
  1. Seasonal Packing Tips
  • Dry season north: Light layers
  • Wet season anywhere: Quick-dry clothes
  • Year-round south: Light, breathable fabric

Remember: There’s no perfect time to visit all of Vietnam. Choose your priorities (weather, crowds, costs) and plan accordingly. Better yet, plan your route to follow the best weather!

Coco Tran • Curated Travel Journal • Travel Blog by Coco Tran https://cocotran.com/best-vietnam-travel-itinerary-guide/

Season and Weather Impact for best times to visit vietnam

Vietnam’s three distinct climate zones significantly affect where you should go and for how long:

After experiencing Vietnam across different seasons, I’ve developed strong opinions about timing your visit:

Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa)

  • Best: October-December (cool, dry)
  • Challenging: June-August (hot, wet)
  • Temperature range: 15-35°C (59-95°F)

Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang)

  • Best: January-May (dry, moderate)
  • Avoid: October-November (flooding risk)
  • Temperature range: 20-35°C (68-95°F)

Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh, Mekong Delta)

  • Best: December-February (dry, less humid)
  • Challenging: May-November (daily rain)
  • Temperature range: 25-35°C (77-95°F)
hanoi things to do

February to April in Vietnam (My Top Choice)

I discovered this sweet spot by accident during my first trip—temperatures hover around 20-25°C (68-77°F), rainfall is minimal, and the winter crowds have dispersed. The rice terraces in Sapa begin their transition from brown to emerald, creating a photographer’s paradise.

December to January in Vietnam (Peak Season (Second Best Choice))

Yes, the weather’s pleasant, but I watched hotel prices in Hoi An triple during this period. Unless you’re constrained by holiday schedules, I’d avoid these months. The crowds at Halong Bay can make intimate moments impossible. 

Personal experience: I visited Vietnam in November for my 3 week trip and visited North To South of Vietnam. Here’s my take, November is an excellent time to go to Vietnam with some flexibility built it. The weather was nice despite the typhoon in Hanoi three weeks before I landed. 

May to June in Vietnam (Value Season)

My favorite time for budget travel. You’ll catch occasional afternoon showers, but they rarely last more than an hour. I’ve secured luxury hotels at mid-range prices during these months.

July to September in Vietnam (Challenging)

I made this mistake once—never again. The humidity in Hanoi felt like walking through soup, and my Halong Bay cruise was cancelled due to a typhoon warning. If these are your only available months, focus on Central Vietnam.

Helpful Tip: Vietnam’s climate varies dramatically between regions. While Hanoi might be chilly in December, Ho Chi Minh City remains warm and sunny.

Coco Tran • Curated Travel Journal • Travel Blog by Coco Tran https://cocotran.com/best-vietnam-travel-itinerary-guide/

Travel Style Adaptations

Luxury Travel

If budget isn’t a concern, consider:

  • Helicopter transfers to Halong Bay
  • Private guide throughout
  • Resort-hopping along central coast
  • Exclusive cooking classes
  • Luxury Mekong cruises

Budget Travel

Maximize your experience by:

  • Using local buses between cities
  • Staying in hostels or homestays
  • Eating at street food markets
  • Walking tours instead of guided tours
  • Sharing day trips with other travelers

Family Travel

Based on traveling with young children:

  • Start in Hoi An (most family-friendly)
  • Book hotels with pools
  • Plan morning activities
  • Include beach days
  • Choose shorter day trips

Digital Nomad Considerations

From personal experience:

  • Best wifi: Ho Chi Minh City
  • Co-working spaces: Da Nang
  • Quiet cafes: Hanoi’s Tay Ho district
  • Long-term stays: Hoi An
  • SIM card: Viettel for coverage

How to Structure Your Route for Vietnam tour itinerary

North to South vs South to North

North to South Advantages:

  • Easier climate adjustment
  • Better weather progression
  • More logical cultural progression
  • Often cheaper flights into Hanoi

South to North Advantages:

  • Warmer weather year-round
  • Better for beach lovers
  • Easier connection to Cambodia
  • More modern infrastructure to start
hanoi things to do

Practical Vietnam Planning Tips

Here are some basic intel you need to know  for a full guide on vietnam travel tips see my guide –> [ what you should know before you travel to vietnam ]

Packing Essentials

Region-specific needs:

  • North: Layer-able clothing
  • Central: Sun protection
  • South: Rain gear

Health Considerations

  • Water: Stick to bottled
  • Street food: Follow crowds
  • Heat: Stay hydrated
  • Insurance: Coverage for activities

Communication

  • Basic phrases help immensely
  • Download offline maps
  • Get a local SIM card
  • Save hotel addresses in Vietnamese

Money Management

  • ATM strategy: Withdraw maximum or bring USD to exchange money in Vietnam. For vietnam money exchange tips see this comprehensive guide [ what you need to know before visiting vietnam tips ]
  • Cards: Notify banks and have a travel credit card
  • Cash: Small bills for markets
  • Bargaining: Start at 50-70%

Detailed Vietnam Itineraries & Best Itinerary for Vietnam

here are my recommended curated travel itinerary for Vietnam:

 Vietnam Itinerary 3 Days

Remember: These itineraries are suggestions – Vietnam rewards spontaneity, so leave room for unexpected discoveries and local recommendations!

3 day Northern Vietnam Itinerary Focus (Hanoi)

Perfect for first-timers with limited time who want to experience Vietnam’s cultural heart.

Day 1: Old Quarter Exploration

Day 2: Cultural Deep Dive

  • Morning: Ho Chi Minh Complex
  • Afternoon: Temple of Literature
  • Evening: Water puppet show

Day 3: Choose Your Adventure

  • Option A: Hanoi French Quarter + Museums
  • Option B: Day trip to Ninh Binh
  • Option C: Local cooking class + market tour
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3 day Southern Vietnam Itinerary Focus (Ho Chi Minh City)

Ideal for those interested in modern Vietnam and war history.

Day 1: District 1 Highlights

Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels

Day 3: Choose Your Adventure

  • Option A: Mekong Delta day trip
  • Option B: City art galleries + cafes
  • Option C: Shopping + spa day in Ho Chi Minh
Coco Tran • Curated Travel Journal • Travel Blog by Coco Tran https://cocotran.com/best-vietnam-travel-itinerary-guide/

Vietnam travel Itinerary 5 Days

5 Day Northern Vietnam Itinerary Adventure

Based on my experience living in Hanoi, this itinerary maximizes your time in the north:

Days 1-2: Hanoi

  • Day 1: Old Quarter immersion
  • Day 2: French Quarter + Museums Where to stay: La Siesta Premium (worth the splurge for the central location)
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Days 3-4: Halong Bay

Instead of rushing a day trip, spend two days exploring:

  • 2D1N luxury cruise (my pick: Genesis Cruise )
  • Kayaking through caves
  • Sunrise tai chi
  • Cooking demonstrations
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Day 5: Hanoi + Departure

  • Morning: Temple of Literature
  • Afternoon: Last-minute shopping
  • Evening: Flight out

vietnam trip itinerary

5 Day Central Vietnam Itinerary Express (Da Nang Base)

Perfect for beach lovers who want a taste of culture:

Day 1: Da Nang Arrival

  • Afternoon: My Khe Beach
  • Evening: Dragon Bridge light show

Day 2: Hoi An Day Trip

Days 3-4: Da Nang

Day 5: Beach Day + Departure

  • Morning: Final beach time
  • Afternoon: Departure

5 Day Southern Vietnam Itinerary Highlights

A perfect introduction to Southern Vietnam:

Where to Stay in HCMC:

Days 1-2: Ho Chi Minh City

Days 3-4: Mekong Delta

  • Overnight in Can Tho
  • Floating markets
  • Local village visits

Day 5: Return to HCMC

  • Ben Thanh Market
  • Rooftop sunset drinks

7 Day Northern Vietnam Itinerary

When I first visited Vietnam, I only had a week. Here’s how I maximized my time with this 7 day Vietnam trip itinerary

Option 1: 7 day Northern Vietnam Itinerary

Days 1-3: Hanoi

I still remember my first morning in Hanoi’s Old Quarter—the symphony of motorbike horns, the aroma of phở wafting from street corners, and the organized chaos that initially overwhelmed but quickly charmed me.

Where to Stay in Hanoi:

Must-Do Experiences:

Days 1-3: Hanoi Day 1:

Day 2:

  • Morning: Ho Chi Minh Complex
  • Afternoon: Hoan Kiem Lake area
  • Evening: Street food tour

Day 3:

  • Morning: Vietnamese Women’s Museum
  • Afternoon: French Quarter
  • Evening: Train Street + egg coffee 

Days 4-5: Halong Bay

My Tip: Skip the day trips. I initially made this mistake, but an overnight cruise is transformative. Watching the sunset paint limestone karsts in gold while sipping wine on deck—that’s the Halong Bay experience you want.

Recommended Cruises:

Helpful Tip: Skip the day trips to Halong Bay—the overnight experience is worth the extra time and cost.

Days 6-7: Ninh Binh or Sapa 

The “Halong Bay on land” nickname doesn’t do Ninh Binh justice. I spent two days cycling through rice fields and exploring ancient temples, finding a peace that eluded me in the cities. You can also opt for the mountainous regions of Sapa.

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Must do in Ninh Binh

Where to Stay in Ninh Binh:

Day 6:

  • Morning: Travel to Ninh Binh
  • Afternoon: Trang An boat tour
  • Evening: Local dinner

Day 7:

Option 2: vietnam itinerary 7 days Central Vietnam Focus

Days 1-4: Hoi An 

Day 1:

  • Morning: Hoi An Ancient Town exploration
  • Afternoon: Tailor fitting
  • Evening: Lantern-lit dinner

Day 2:

Day 3:

Day 4:

Where to Stay in Hoi An:

Days 5-7: Da Nang Day 5:

Day 6:

  • Full day: Ba Na Hills
  • Evening: Han Market

Day 7:

  • Morning: Lady Buddha
  • Afternoon: Son Tra Peninsula
  • Evening: Seafood dinner

Where to Stay in Da Nang:

Option 3: Southern Experience

Days 1-3: Ho Chi Minh City

Day 1:

Day 2:

Day 3:

  • Morning: Ben Thanh Market
  • Afternoon: Cholon (Chinatown)
  • Evening: Dinner cruise
hanoi coffee shops vieetnam

Where to Stay in HCMC:

Days 4-7: Mekong Delta Base in Can Tho for:

  • Floating markets
  • Village homestay
  • Bicycle tours
  • Local cooking

Where to Stay in Can Tho:

vietnam travel itinerary 10 days:

vietnam 10 day itinerary

This itinerary moves quickly but captures Vietnam’s Northern essence:

Personal Experience: During my trip, I found this pace slightly rushed but doable. The key is booking morning flights between destinations to maximize sightseeing time.

Coco Tran • Curated Travel Journal • Travel Blog by Coco Tran https://cocotran.com/best-vietnam-travel-itinerary-guide/

15 Day Vietnam itinerary

Days 1-3: Hanoi [Detailed breakdown from Northern itinerary above ]

Days 4-5: Halong Bay 

Days 6-7: Sapa Activities:

  • Rice terrace trekking
  • Local market visits
  • Homestay experience
  • Mountain hiking

Where to Stay in sapa :

Days 8-10: Hoi An

Days 11-12: Da Nang [

Days 13-15: Ho Chi Minh City Additional activities:

Long-Term itineraries for vietnam Travel Considerations (2-3 Weeks)

When planning longer trips in Vietnam, consider these factors I’ve learned from experience:

Travel Tips for Multi-Region Trips

Transportation Between Regions:

  • Book morning flights to maximize time
  • Consider overnight trains for authentic experience
  • Use Grab app for city transport

North to South Route:

Pro tip: Book open-jaw flights (into Hanoi, out of HCMC) to save backtracking time

Coco Tran • Curated Travel Journal • Travel Blog by Coco Tran https://cocotran.com/best-vietnam-travel-itinerary-guide/

Internal Travel Times

Regional Time Distribution

For a 2 week trip Vietnam, I recommend:

  • North Vietnam: 5-6 days
  • Central Vietnam: 4-5 days
  • South Vietnam: 3-4 days
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For 3 weeks in VIetnam, add:

  • Extra days in Hoi An
  • Beach time in Nha Trang/Cam Ranh
  • Mekong Delta exploration

Rest Days

Include a rest day after:

  • Long overnight journeys
  • Multiple days of sightseeing
  • Changing climate zones

Personal tip: I always plan a pool day in Hoi An or Nha Trang or Cam Ranh mid-trip to recharge

Coco Tran • Curated Travel Journal • Travel Blog by Coco Tran https://cocotran.com/best-vietnam-travel-itinerary-guide/

Climate Considerations for Long Trips Vietnam Itinerary

When traveling for 2-3 weeks, you’ll likely experience multiple climate zones. Pack accordingly:

North:

  • Winter (Nov-Feb): Light jacket needed
  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Light, quick-dry clothing

Central:

  • Year-round: Beachwear + modest temple attire
  • Rainy season (Oct-Nov): Portable umbrella

South:

  • Year-round: Light, breathable clothing
  • Rainy season (May-Nov): Quick-dry fabrics
Coco Tran • Curated Travel Journal • Travel Blog by Coco Tran https://cocotran.com/best-vietnam-travel-itinerary-guide/

vietnam travel Budget Allocation

Based on my trips, here’s how to distribute your budget:

North Vietnam:

Central Vietnam:

  • Mid-range accommodation costs
  • Higher food costs (tourist prices)
  • Budget for tailoring

South Vietnam:

  • Lower accommodation costs
  • Mid-range food costs
  • Budget for day trips

Vietnam Travel itinerary 2 weeks

Is 2 weeks enough to visit Vietnam?

It’s a great start to see the north and south of vietnam at a comfortable pace. here’s an ideal 2 week vietnam Itinerary:

Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks

  • Days 1-3: Hanoi
  • Days 3-5: Halong Bay
  • Days 5-8: Sapa Days Or Ninh Binh or Ha Giang Loop
  • Days  8-10: Danang or 8-11 with day trip to Hoi An
  • Days 10-11: Hoi An or Nha Trang or Cam Ranh
  • 12-14: Ho Chi Minh City + Mekong Delta

vietnam itinerary 3 weeks

3 Week Vietnam Travel Itinerary (My Personal Route)

This is the itinerary I’ve refined over multiple visits, incorporating hidden gems and local favorites:

Days 1-3: Hanoi & Surroundings

I always start in Hanoi because it sets the tone for understanding Vietnam. My first morning ritual: grabbing a tiny plastic stool at a street corner for phở, watching the city wake up.

Daily Breakdown:

Where I Stay: Minerva Premium Hotel and Classyc Hotel in the Old Quarter. Perfect location, incredible service, and their breakfast pho is outstanding.

Days 4-6: Halong Bay

After trying various cruises, I recommend Indochina Sails for the sweet spot between luxury and value. Book a balcony cabin—there’s nothing like waking up to limestone karsts outside your window.

Days 7-9: Sapa or Ninh binh

The trek to Sapa is worth the long journey. I stayed with a H’mong family in Ta Van village, and it remains one of my most cherished Vietnam memories. Or you can venture to the Halong bay on land and experience the amazing Mua Cave in Ninh Binh

  • Rice terrace trekking
  • Homestay experience
  • Local market visits

Trekking Tip: Book your guide directly through your homestay rather than tour agencies in Hanoi.

Days 10-12: Hoi An 

Hoi An deserves these extra days. Beyond the Ancient Town’s charm, I discovered:

  • Hidden cafes in rice fields
  • Secret beaches past An Bang
  • Family-run cooking classes
  • The best bánh mì in Vietnam (Madam Khanh’s)
  • Tailoring appointments

Where to Stay in Hoi An:

Day 12-14: Danang

Where to Stay in danang:

Days 15-16: Nha Trang & Cam Ranh

Often overlooked, but I found this coastal stretch offers a different side of Vietnam. The pristine beaches of Cam Ranh particularly impressed me—less crowded than Nha Trang’s tourist strips.

Personal Experience: Skip the party boats in Nha Trang. Instead, hire a local fisherman for a sunrise tour of the bay. The morning light on the water is magical, and you’ll likely have the whole experience to yourself.

Where to Stay:

Days 17-21: Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta

End your journey in HCMC’s organized chaos. I spend mornings in District 1’s coffee shops, afternoons exploring hidden alleyways, and evenings at rooftop bars watching the sunset paint the city gold.

Remember: Vietnam rewards slow travelers. While it’s tempting to pack in everything, some of my best memories came from unplanned wandering through Hanoi’s Old Quarter or discovering hidden cafes in Hoi An.

Central Vietnam: Coastal Treasures

Hoi An Beyond Ancient Town:

  • Cam Kim Island: Cycle through rural villages
  • Tra Que Herb Village: Morning farming tours
  • Hidden Beach: Between An Bang and Cua Dai
  • Full moon lantern festival: Plan around lunar calendar

Da Nang Insights:

  • Son Tra Peninsula: Best at sunrise
  • Nam O Beach: Local seafood spots
  • Con Market: Better prices than Han Market
  • Dragon Bridge: Fire show on weekends

Nha Trang & Cam Ranh:

  • Doc Let Beach: Pristine white sand
  • Hon Mun Island: Best snorkeling
  • Long Son Pagoda: Sunset views
  • Cam Ranh: Luxury resorts without crowds

South Vietnam: Urban and Delta Life

Coco Tran • Curated Travel Journal • Travel Blog by Coco Tran https://cocotran.com/best-vietnam-travel-itinerary-guide/

Ho Chi Minh City Districts:

  • District 1: Colonial architecture
  • District 3: Best café culture
  • District 5: Authentic Chinatown
  • District 7: Modern Vietnam

Mekong Delta Exploration:

  • Can Tho: Base for floating markets
  • Ben Tre: Coconut village life
  • Sa Dec: Flower gardens
  • Vinh Long: Homestay experiences

Transportation in Vietnam Deep Dive

here are your options on how to get around in Vietnam:

Vietnam Internal Flights

After countless domestic flights, here’s what I’ve learned:

  • Vietnam Airlines: Most reliable but priciest
  • VietJet: Incredibly cheap but notorious for delays (my 2-hour delay in Da Nang taught me to never book tight connections)
  • Bamboo Airways: The sweet spot for reliability and value

Helpful Tip: Book morning flights. Delays compound throughout the day, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer months.

Train Travel

The Reunification Express might be Vietnam’s most iconic rail journey, but it’s not always the best choice. My overnight trip from Hanoi to Da Nang offered stunning coastal views but at the cost of genuine sleep. Consider these factors:

  • Soft sleeper cabins are worth the upgrade
  • Lower bunks offer better views but higher bunks provide more privacy
  • Book through 12Go Asia for easier ticket collection

Private Transfers

I’ve found these particularly valuable for:

  • Hanoi to Halong Bay (avoid the crowded shuttle buses)
  • Da Nang to Hoi An (flexibility to stop at Marble Mountain)
  • Cam Ranh Airport to Nha Trang (fixed prices prevent taxi scams)

Essential Travel Tips

Transportation in Vietnam

  • Domestic flights: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, Bamboo Airways
  • Trains: Comfortable for overnight journeys
  • Grab app: Essential for city transportation

Within Cities:

  • Grab app (like Uber)
  • Local buses
  • Taxis (use reputable companies)
  • Walking (in Old Quarters)

Accommodation in Vietnam Booking

Book ahead for:

Accommodation Strategy:

  • Book first and last nights in advance
  • Keep middle dates flexible
  • Use Booking.com for free cancellation options

Money in Vietnam tips

  • ATMs widely available in cities
  • Many places cash-only
  • USD accepted at major hotels
  • ATM tips: Vietcombank has the highest withdrawal limits
  • Cards: Always carry cash for street food and local markets
  • Bargaining: Expect to pay about 70% of the initial asking price
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Weather Considerations:

  • Pack for multiple climates
  • Plan indoor activities for rainy season
  • Book flexible activities when possible

Money-Saving Tips:

  • Book internal flights in advance
  • Combine day trips where possible
  • Eat local street food
  • Use local transport apps

Vietnam Cultural Navigation

  • Dress codes: Pack a light scarf for temple visits
  • Photography: Always ask before photographing people
  • Tipping: Not expected but appreciated (10% is generous)
Coco Tran • Curated Travel Journal • Travel Blog by Coco Tran https://cocotran.com/best-vietnam-travel-itinerary-guide/

When to Book What for itinerary vietnam 

3 months before:

1 month before:

  • Domestic flights
  • Tours and activities
  • Homestays

On arrival:

  • Local tours
  • Restaurant reservations
  • Tailoring appointments

Helpful Tip: Many travelers make the mistake of pre-booking everything. Keep some flexibility in your schedule—some of Vietnam’s best experiences come from spontaneous decisions.

Vietnam Cost and Detailed Budget Breakdown (2024 Prices)

Vietnam Transportation cost Between Cities:

  • Domestic flights: From $30-80
  • Overnight trains: $20-45
  • Tourist buses: $10-25
  • Private transfers: $50-200

Daily Costs by Travel Style

Mid-Range ($50-100/day)

  • Boutique hotel: $40-60
  • Mix of local and Western meals: $15-20
  • Private transport: $20-30
  • Quality tours: $30-50

Luxury ($150+/day)

  • 5-star hotels: $150+
  • Fine dining: $30-50
  • Private guided tours: $100+
  • Spa treatments: $40-80

Special Experiences to add to your travel itinerary to vietnam that’s Worth the Splurge

From personal experience, these investments elevated my trips:

2 night Luxury Halong Bay Cruise ($350-400)

  • Private balcony
  • Gourmet meals
  • Premium cabin location
  • Worth every dong for the sunrise views alone

Private Street Food Tour in Hanoi ($65)

  • My guide, Ms. Hang, introduced me to hidden gems I still dream about
  • Includes all food, drinks, and transport
  • Personal food history lessons included

Helpful Tip: Save receipts from larger purchases—Vietnam’s tourist tax refund program at airports can return up to 85% of VAT.

Time-Saving Tips

  1. Flight Strategies:
    • Book early morning flights
    • Use Grab for airport transfers
    • Consider VietJet for budget internal flights
  2. Tour Combinations:
  3. Skip-the-Line Options:

Remember: Vietnam rewards slow travelers. While it’s tempting to pack in everything, some of my best memories came from unplanned wandering through Hanoi’s Old Quarter or discovering hidden cafes in Hoi An.

Vietnam Regional Food Guide

Northern Vietnam

The sophisticated flavors of Hanoi demand exploration. My go-to spots:

  • Phở Gia Truyen (49 Bat Dan): Arrive before 8am or face lengthy queues
  • Bún Chả Hương Liên: Yes, the Obama spot. Still excellent.
  • Chả Cá Thăng Long: The fish with dill changed my perception of Vietnamese cuisine

Central Vietnam

Hoi An’s food scene deserves its own guide. Don’t miss:

  • Bánh Mì Phượng: Anthony Bourdain’s pick lives up to the hype
  • Morning Glory: Their cao lầu is the best in town
  • Reaching Out Teahouse: Silent tea service by hearing-impaired staff creates an unforgettable experience

Southern Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City’s culinary landscape blends traditional and modern:

  • Cục Gạch Quán: Hidden in a French villa, serving grandmother’s recipes
  • Secret Garden: Rooftop dining with home-style Vietnamese
  • Quan Bui: Modern takes on street food classics

Final Thoughts

Vietnam isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that changes with each visit. Whether you have three days or three weeks, focus on quality over quantity. Some of my most memorable moments came from simply sitting on a tiny plastic stool, slurping phở, and watching city life unfold.

Remember:

  • Weather impacts everything
  • Distances are deceptive
  • Flexibility is key
  • Local connections matter

Most importantly, don’t try to see everything. Vietnam has a way of calling you back, and each return visit reveals new layers of this fascinating country.

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