Vietnam is a country that offers an incredible mix of culture, history, natural beauty, and cuisine. If you have two weeks to explore this vibrant destination, a North to South Vietnam itinerary is a perfect way to see the best of the country, from stunning beaches to lush mountains, ancient towns, and bustling cities.
This 2-week itinerary will guide you through the most iconic and underrated spots across Vietnam, allowing you to experience the diverse landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food. Here’s your perfect Vietnam itinerary for 14 days.
Day 1-3: Hanoi – The Heart of Northern Vietnam
Start your journey in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, known for its ancient streets, colonial architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Hanoi has a perfect blend of old and new, where you can wander through the streets of the Old Quarter and discover its many street food stalls and traditional markets.
Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi
- Arrive in Hanoi and check into your hotel.
- Spend the evening strolling around Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of Hanoi.
- Explore the Old Quarter, where you can visit temples, markets, and enjoy some local Vietnamese food like pho or banh mi.
Day 2: Discover Hanoi’s History & Culture
- Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the revered leader of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh, is preserved.
- Explore Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university.
- Head to Hoa Lo Prison (also known as the “Hanoi Hilton”) to learn about Vietnam’s colonial history.
- In the evening, enjoy a traditional Water Puppet Show.
Day 3: Day Trip to Ninh Binh
- Take a day trip to Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land,” located about 2 hours south of Hanoi.
- Visit the Tam Coc boat tour through limestone karsts or explore the stunning Trang An landscape complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Return to Hanoi in the evening.
Day 4-5: Halong Bay – Natural Wonder
After experiencing Hanoi’s historical and cultural highlights, it’s time to head to one of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonders: Halong Bay.
Day 4: Travel to Halong Bay
- Travel to Halong Bay (approx. 4 hours from Hanoi by car).
- Spend the night on a cruise in Halong Bay, where you can admire the stunning karst limestone formations and explore caves, beaches, and small islands.
- Enjoy activities like kayaking, swimming, and a seafood feast.
Day 5: Explore Halong Bay
- Wake up early to enjoy a morning swim or participate in activities like tai chi on the deck.
- Visit some of the most famous spots in Halong Bay like Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island for panoramic views of the bay.
- After a day of exploration, return to Hanoi for an evening flight or train to the next destination.
Day 6-7: Phong Nha – Caves and Adventure
Day 6: Travel to Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park
- Fly or take a night train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, the nearest city to Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park.
- Upon arrival, head to Phong Nha, a town famous for its extraordinary caves.
- Visit Phong Nha Cave or Paradise Cave, two of the most beautiful caves in the area. The caves are filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and other surreal formations.
Day 7: Adventure Day in Phong Nha
- Go on an adventurous tour of Son Doong Cave, the world’s largest cave, or explore the Dark Cave (Hang Toi), where you can kayak, zip-line, and swim in underground rivers.
- Explore Phong Nha National Park, with options for jungle trekking and visiting remote ethnic villages.
Day 8-9: Hue – Imperial City
After your adventure in Phong Nha, head south to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, full of historical monuments and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Day 8: Arrive in Hue
- Travel to Hue (approximately 5 hours by car or a short flight from Dong Hoi).
- Visit the Imperial Citadel, a vast complex with palaces, temples, and gardens.
- Explore Thien Mu Pagoda, the most iconic pagoda in Hue, located along the Perfume River.
- Enjoy a traditional royal cuisine dinner, which Hue is famous for.
Day 9: Explore Tombs and Villages
- Visit the Royal Tombs of emperors like Khai Dinh, Tu Duc, and Minh Mang, each with unique architecture and peaceful surroundings.
- Take a boat cruise on the Perfume River to reach the tombs and experience the serene beauty of the landscape.
Day 10-11: Hoi An – Ancient Town
After Hue, head south to the charming town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved ancient buildings, cultural blend, and delicious cuisine.
Day 10: Travel to Hoi An
- Travel from Hue to Hoi An by car (approximately 3 hours) via the Hai Van Pass, one of the most scenic coastal routes in Vietnam.
- Spend the afternoon exploring Hoi An Ancient Town, known for its old town charm, lantern-lit streets, and well-preserved merchant houses.
- Try some local specialties like cao lau (noodles with pork) and white rose dumplings.
Day 11: Explore Hoi An and Beaches
- Take a cycling tour to the surrounding countryside, visiting local farms and villages.
- Spend the afternoon at An Bang Beach, a relaxing and less crowded beach.
- In the evening, wander around Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets and enjoy dinner by the river.
Day 12-14: Ho Chi Minh City – The Bustling South
Day 12: Travel to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
- Take a morning flight from Da Nang (near Hoi An) to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon).
- Start your visit by exploring the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and Ben Thanh Market.
- In the evening, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Bui Vien Street, known for its vibrant nightlife.
Day 13: Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta
- Take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.
- In the afternoon, head to the Mekong Delta for a boat ride through its winding rivers, visiting floating markets and traditional villages.
Day 14: Explore Ho Chi Minh City
- Spend your final day in Ho Chi Minh City exploring the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam’s turbulent history.
- Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda and Cholon (Saigon's Chinatown), where you can explore the colorful markets and temples.
- End your trip with a traditional Vietnamese meal at a rooftop restaurant, overlooking the city skyline.
Conclusion: A Perfect Vietnam Adventure
This 2-week itinerary will allow you to experience the best of Vietnam, from the cultural charm of Hanoi to the stunning natural beauty of Halong Bay, the historic wonders of Hue, and the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you’re a history lover, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, this North to South Vietnam exploration will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of this fascinating country.
