7 days in Vietnam itinerary – What to do in Vietnam in 7 days

Is one week in Vietnam enough?

Yes - if you plan it smartly. While Vietnam stretches over 1,600 km from north to south, modern transport and smart routes make it possible to experience incredible diversity in just one week.

A well-planned 7-day itinerary gives you time to:

• Explore two or three major regions (North, Central, South)

• Dive into cultural experiences and local cuisine

• Include at least one nature or beach destination

• Avoid exhausting travel days

In this guide, you’ll find three recommended routes:

• Classic North-to-South Highlights

• Northern Adventure with Caves and Mountains

• Central Vietnam for Heritage and Chill

Sample Vietnam itinerary for 7 days

Itinerary 1: Classic highlights – North to South in 7 Days

This itinerary is perfect for first-timers who want to experience Vietnam’s essential sights from top to bottom. It includes the capital city, iconic nature spots, cultural heritage, and vibrant urban life.

Day 1: Hanoi

• Arrive in the capital and explore the Old Quarter.

• Visit the Temple of Literature and Hoan Kiem Lake.

• Try bun cha or pho, and enjoy an evening water puppet show.

Day 2: Ha Long Bay

• Take a 1-night cruise or full-day tour of Ha Long Bay.

• Kayak through limestone karsts, visit caves, and enjoy onboard seafood.

• Return to Hanoi in the evening or stay overnight on the boat.

Day 3: Flight to Da Nang – Transfer to Hoi An

• Fly from Hanoi to Da Nang (1.5 hours), then drive to Hoi An.

• Explore the lantern-lit Ancient Town and its riverside markets.

• Sample cao lau noodles and shop for custom-tailored clothing.

Day 4: Hoi An

• Join a cooking class or cycle through Tra Que vegetable village.

• Relax at An Bang Beach or take a sunset boat ride.

Day 5: Fly to Ho Chi Minh city

• Explore landmarks like the War Remnants Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral.

• Dine at a rooftop bar overlooking the Saigon skyline.

Day 6: Mekong Delta day trip

• Visit Ben Tre or Cai Be for boat rides, coconut candy workshops, and tropical gardens.

• Return to Ho Chi Minh City by evening.

Day 7: Cu Chi tunnels & departure

• Spend your last morning touring the Cu Chi Tunnels.

• Head to the airport in the afternoon.

Best for: First-timers, culture lovers, varied interests Souvenirs: Silk scarves (Hanoi), lanterns (Hoi An), coffee beans (Saigon)

Itinerary 2: Northern Vietnam adventure – Culture, mountains & caves

This plan is ideal for nature seekers and culture lovers who prefer fewer flights and deeper local experiences. It focuses on Vietnam’s scenic north and central highlands.

Day 1: Hanoi

• Arrive in Hanoi and dive into the historic heart of the city.

• Take a food tour or walk around the French Quarter.

• Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2: Ninh Binh Day Trip

• Visit Trang An or Tam Coc by rowboat, cruise past limestone cliffs and temples.

• Climb Hang Mua for epic views.

• Return to Hanoi for the night.

Day 3: Overnight train or van to Phong Nha

• Take a sleeper train or limousine bus to Quang Binh Province.

• Rest in a riverside homestay in Phong Nha.

Day 4: Phong Nha caves & jungle

• Explore Paradise Cave or the adventurous Dark Cave.

• Zipline, kayak, and swim through jungle rivers.

• Learn about local village life.

Day 5: Transfer to Hue

• Take a scenic drive south to the ancient imperial city of Hue.

• Visit the Imperial Citadel and take a sunset cruise on the Perfume River.

Day 6: Royal tombs & temples

• Visit tombs of emperors like Tu Duc or Khai Dinh.

• Try bun bo Hue and shop at Dong Ba Market.

Day 7: Departure from Hue or Da Nang

• Depending on your flight, depart from Hue or drive to Da Nang for departure.

Best for: Adventurers, photographers, off-the-beaten-path travelers Souvenirs: Tribal fabrics (Ninh Binh), local jungle honey (Phong Nha), calligraphy prints (Hue)

Itinerary 3: Central Vietnam escape – Heritage, beaches, and relaxation

This slower-paced route is perfect for couples, families, or anyone who wants to balance sightseeing with beach time and comfort. All locations are connected by short drives.

Day 1: Arrive in Da Nang

• Check in near My Khe Beach.

• Visit the Marble Mountains and Linh Ung Pagoda.

• Sunset walk along the Han River or Dragon Bridge.

Day 2: Hoi An ancient town

• Head to Hoi An and explore the town’s lantern-lit streets.

• Stop at the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Tan Ky Old House.

• Try a tailor fitting or join a lantern-making workshop.

Day 3: Cooking class & Village ride

• Join a local cooking class with a market visit.

• Cycle through Cam Thanh or Tra Que for countryside scenes.

Day 4: Beach & spa day

• Relax at An Bang or Cua Dai Beach.

• Enjoy a traditional herbal massage or facial spa treatment.

Day 5: Transfer to Hue via Hai Van pass

• Take the scenic drive over Hai Van Pass to Hue.

• Stop at Lang Co Lagoon or enjoy a seafood lunch on the way.

• Check in and enjoy dinner by the Perfume River.

Day 6: Imperial Hue

• Explore Hue’s Imperial City and visit Thien Mu Pagoda.

• Discover royal tombs or take a boat ride.

Day 7: Departure

• Fly out from Hue or Da Nang Airport depending on your schedule.

Best for: Couples, families, relaxed travelers Souvenirs: Handmade lanterns (Hoi An), sea salt scrubs (Hue), embroidered fans

Final tips for planning your 7 days in Vietnam itinerary

• Use domestic flights if you're covering long distances (Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, Bamboo Airways).

• Combine culture, nature, and relaxation for a balanced experience.

• Pack light but bring versatile outfits (you may need temple-appropriate clothes).

• Check visa requirements and airport proximity when choosing your arrival city.

Conclusion

A week in Vietnam can feel like a deep journey or a whirlwind of colors and contrasts—it all depends on how you plan it. Whether you're chasing lanterns in Hoi An, climbing jungle peaks in Phong Nha, or floating along the Mekong, the experiences you collect in just 7 days will stay with you forever.

Need more itinerary ideas or want to extend your journey? Check out our full Vietnam Itinerary to explore deeper and travel smarter.

Want your 7-day trip fully organized and worry-free? Explore our handcrafted 7-Day Vietnam Tour Packages that include local guides, hotels, transportation, and unforgettable experiences

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