10-Day Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City Couples Itinerary
Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport · Hoa Lo Prison Relic · Temple of Literature · Hoan Kiem Lake · Imperial Citadel of Thang Long · Trấn Quốc Pagoda
Part one
Is this trip for you?
Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City present a raw contrast of ancient temple architecture and colonial-era influence that places like Da Nang lack. Hanoi offers a sensory focus on narrow-alley coffee culture and traditional guilds, while Ho Chi Minh City provides a deeper look into the rapid transformation of urban southern history. This route suits those who prioritize food-centric city exploration and political history over beach resorts or highland hiking.
Your itinerary covers 7 must-have experiences
Historical Landmarks
✓ Day 1: Hoa Lo Prison Relic
Iconic Neighborhood Walks
✓ Day 1: Hoan Kiem Lake
Traditional Street Markets
✓ Day 3: Dong Xuan Market
Cultural Performances
✓ Day 3: Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
Historical Monuments and Museums
✓ Day 6: War Remnants Museum
Bustling Local Markets
✓ Day 7: Ben Thanh Market
Historic Pagodas and Shrines
✓ Day 8: Thien Hau Temple
📅 Best Time to Visit
Visit from February to April or September to November when rainfall is lower and temperatures are moderate. Summers can exceed 35 degrees Celsius with high humidity. Avoid the Tet holiday in late January or early February if you want to avoid massive travel disruptions and shop closures.
Part two
The plan, day by day
10-day trip
Hanoi claims the first five nights to capture the city at dawn, when its narrow market lanes are clearest for walking. This front-loads the intense historical focus while your energy remains high. The Day 6 transit acts as a clean reset, allowing you to settle into the faster pace of Ho Chi Minh City for the final four nights.
The terminal day in the south is kept deliberately low-key, ensuring you remain near your departure point for an easy exit. This itinerary prioritizes the core urban history and food scenes of Vietnam's two major hubs. By focusing on these distinct city centers, the plan skips the karst landscapes of Ha Long Bay and the quiet lantern-lit streets of Hoi An.
It is the right shape for a traveler chasing deep dives into culinary and modern history, but the wrong one if you came seeking remote mountain treks or coastal relaxation. Extend the trip by two days to include Hue, specifically to walk the sprawling, weather-beaten walls of the Imperial Citadel. Adding this stop fills the historical gap between the northern and southern capitals with a more tranquil pace.
- Morning
08:00 AM - Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)· 2 hrs
USD 15 (~VND 368K)Arrive and transfer to the city. Take public bus 86 (50 min, $2) or a taxi (40 min, $15) to the Old Quarter area.
- 🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
10:30 AM - Hoa Lo Prison Relic· 2 hrs
USD 6 (~VND 147K) - Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Bun Cha in Old Quarter· 1 hr
USD 4 (~VND 98K)Bun ChaEnjoy the quintessential Hanoi meal of grilled pork and noodles in a vinegar-based broth.
Often found around Old QuarterTypical $2–5 - Closes 5 PM · 3h here🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
02:00 PM - Temple of Literature· 2 hrs
USD 2 (~VND 49K) - Evening
07:00 PM - Dinner: Lau Ga in Phung Hung Street· 1 hr 30 min
USD 12 (~VND 294K)Lau GaGather for a local-style communal chicken hot pot cooked at your table.
Often found around Phung Hung StreetTypical $8–18
Old Quarter
Central location providing easy walking access to the main historical landmarks, lakes, and local street food hubs.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
09:00 AM - Imperial Citadel of Thang Long· 2 hrs 30 min
USD 4 (~VND 98K) - Afternoon
12:00 PM - Lunch: Cha Ca La Vong in Cha Ca Street· 1 hr
USD 8 (~VND 196K)Cha Ca La VongEnjoy turmeric-marinated white fish fried with fresh dill and scallions, a classic Hanoian culinary experience.
Often found around Cha Ca StreetTypical $5–10 - Closes 5 PM · 3h here🕐 Monday: 7:30 – 11:00 AM, 1:30 – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:30 – 11:00 AM, 1:30 – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:30 – 11:00 AM, 1:30 – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
02:00 PM - Trấn Quốc Pagoda· 1 hr 30 min
FREE 04:00 PM - West Lake snack break· 1 hr
USD 2 (~VND 49K)Banh Tom Ho TayTry crispy shrimp and sweet potato fritters by the shore of West Lake, a favorite local afternoon snack.
Often found around West LakeTypical $1–3- Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Bún Đậu Mắm Tôm in Old Quarter· 1 hr
USD 3 (~VND 74K)Bún Đậu Mắm TômA traditional dish featuring fried tofu, rice vermicelli, and boiled pork served with a pungent fermented shrimp paste sauce.
Old Quarter
Centrally located with easy access to historic sites and a high density of authentic street food spots.
- Morning⚠️ Closed on Monday🕐 Monday: Closed; Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM; Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PMConfirm hours on Maps
09:00 AM - Vietnam Museum of Ethnology· 2 hrs 30 min
USD 4 (~VND 98K) - Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Banh Xeo in Old Quarter· 1 hr
USD 3 (~VND 74K)Banh XeoCrunchy turmeric rice flour crepes folded over savory fillings like shrimp and bean sprouts, served with fresh herbs.
- 🕐 Monday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
02:00 PM - Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre· 1 hr 30 min
USD 4 (~VND 98K) - Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Bun Dau Mam Tom in Hang Khay Street· 1 hr
USD 3 (~VND 74K)Bun Dau Mam TomA classic, bold-flavored Hanoi favorite featuring crisp tofu, rice vermicelli, and boiled pork with pungent fermented shrimp paste.
Often found around Hang Khay StreetTypical $1–3
Old Quarter
Unbeatable access to history, street food markets, and the city's most walkable historic districts.
- MorningCloses 10:30 AM · 3h here⚠️ Closed on Monday, Friday🕐 Monday: Closed; Tuesday: 7:30 – 10:30 AM; Wednesday: 7:30 – 10:30 AMConfirm hours on Maps
07:30 AM - Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum· 1 hr 30 min
USD 2 (~VND 49K) - 🕐 Monday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
09:00 AM - One Pillar Pagoda· 1 hr
USD 1 (~VND 25K) - Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Pho Bo in Old Quarter· 1 hr
USD 3 (~VND 74K)Pho BoEnjoy a bowl of traditional Hanoi-style beef noodle soup with clear, aromatic broth.
Often found around Old QuarterTypical $1–3 - Closes 5 PM · 3h here🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
02:00 PM - Vietnamese Women's Museum· 2 hrs
USD 2 (~VND 49K) - Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Banh Tom Ho Tay in Old Quarter· 1 hr
USD 5 (~VND 123K)Banh Tom Ho TaySavor crispy shrimp and sweet potato fritters, a local delicacy traditionally paired with fresh herbs.
Often found around West LakeTypical $1–3
Old Quarter
Central base with high walkability to museums, markets, and the best street food spots in the city.
- Morning
09:00 AM - Tay Ho Temple· 1 hr 30 min
FREEVisit this beautiful temple dedicated to the Mother Goddess Lieu Hanh on the shores of West Lake.
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Banh Mi in Old Quarter· 1 hr
USD 2 (~VND 49K)Banh MiEnjoy a crusty baguette filled with pate, meats, and pickles from a street-side vendor.
Typical $1–2 - Closes 4:30 PM · 2.5h here⚠️ Closed on Monday, Friday🕐 Monday: Closed; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PMConfirm hours on Maps
02:00 PM - Vietnam Military History Museum· 2 hrs
USD 3 (~VND 74K) - ⚠️ Overlaps the next activity — check the time
04:30 PM - Hanoi Botanical Garden· 1 hr
FREE
Daderot (CC0)Stroll through this tranquil green oasis in the heart of the city to enjoy nature.
- Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Goi Cuon in Old Quarter· 1 hr
USD 2 (~VND 49K)Goi CuonSavor fresh rice paper rolls stuffed with shrimp and herbs at a local eatery.
Typical $1–2
Old Quarter
Walkable to many heritage sites, markets, and the best street food spots in the city.
- Morning
09:00 AM - Departure from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)· 2 hrs 10 min
USD 85 (~VND 2.1M)Depart Hanoi for Ho Chi Minh City.
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Com Tam in District 1· 1 hr
USD 3 (~VND 74K)Com TamEnjoy a classic southern lunch of broken rice with grilled pork and a fried egg.
Often found around District 1Typical $1–3 - 🕐 Monday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
01:30 PM - Independence Palace· 2 hrs
USD 2 (~VND 49K) - Closes 5:30 PM · 2h here🕐 Monday: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM; Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM; Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PMConfirm hours on Maps
03:30 PM - War Remnants Museum· 2 hrs
USD 2 (~VND 49K) - Evening
08:00 PM - Dinner: Bun Thit Nuong in District 3· 1 hr
USD 3 (~VND 74K)Bun Thit NuongCool, fresh vermicelli noodles with grilled pork, perfect for the evening heat.
Often found around District 3Typical $1–3
District 1
The best base for exploring the city's main historical sites and markets on foot. It has the highest concentration of accessible local dining.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
09:00 AM - Saigon Central Post Office· 1 hr
FREE - 🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
10:30 AM - Saigon Book Street· 1 hr
FREE - Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Banh Mi in District 1· 1 hr
USD 8 (~VND 196K)Banh MiSample a crusty baguette filled with savory pate and fresh herbs
Typical $1–2 - 🕐 Monday: 9:30 AM – 9:30 PM; Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 9:30 PM; Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 9:30 PMConfirm hours on Maps
04:30 PM - Bitexco Financial Tower· 1 hr
USD 15 (~VND 368K) - Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Goi Cuon in District 1· 1 hr
USD 12 (~VND 294K)Goi CuonFresh spring rolls packed with prawns and herbs, dipped in peanut sauce
Typical $1–2
District 1
This area puts you within walking distance of major historical sights and local markets, providing an ideal base for exploring the city.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 6:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 5:30 PMConfirm hours on Maps
09:00 AM - Thien Hau Temple· 1 hr
FREE - 🕐 Monday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
10:30 AM - Binh Tay Market· 1 hr 30 min
FREE - Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Hu Tieu Nam Vang in District 5· 1 hr
USD 8 (~VND 196K)Hu Tieu Nam VangSavor a flavorful bowl of Southern-style clear noodle soup with pork and shrimp.
- Closes 6 PM · 3.5h here🕐 Monday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
2:30 PM - Jade Emperor Pagoda· 1 hr 30 min
FREE - Closes 6:30 PM · 2h here🕐 Monday: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM; Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM; Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PMConfirm hours on Maps
4:30 PM - Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens· 2 hrs
USD 3 (~VND 74K) - Evening
7:30 PM - Dinner: Banh Xeo in District 3· 1 hr
USD 10 (~VND 245K)Banh XeoEnjoy crispy Vietnamese savory crepes stuffed with pork, shrimp, and fresh bean sprouts.
District 1
This area puts you within walking distance of the primary historic sites, excellent local eateries, and the vibrant city pulse.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
09:00 AM - Cu Chi Tunnels· 4 hrs
USD 20 (~VND 490K) - Afternoon
01:00 PM - Lunch: Banh Xeo in District 1· 1 hr
USD 10 (~VND 245K)Banh XeoEnjoy a savory, crispy Vietnamese pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.
- 🕐 Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
02:30 PM - Tao Dan Park· 1 hr 30 min
FREE - Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Goi Cuon in District 1· 1 hr
USD 10 (~VND 245K)Goi CuonDine on fresh, authentic spring rolls packed with herbs, vermicelli, and pork.
Typical $1–2
District 1
It remains the most convenient base for exploring historical sites and accessing a wide variety of local food.
- Morning🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
09:00 AM - Ho Thi Ky Flower Market· 1 hr
FREE - 🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
10:30 AM - Vinh Nghiem Pagoda· 1 hr 30 min
FREE - Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Mi Quang in District 3· 1 hr
USD 15 (~VND 368K)Mi QuangSavor a bowl of flat rice noodles with shrimp, pork, and crunchy peanuts, a specialty of central Vietnam.
02:00 PM - Hotel Checkout & Luggage Collection· 30 min
FREEReturn to your hotel, settle your bill, and pick up your stored bags.
04:00 PM - Depart from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)· 2 hrs
USD 10 (~VND 245K)Travel by taxi to the airport for your flight home, allowing extra time for security.
District 1
Central location makes it easy to handle last-minute logistics and reach airport transit routes efficiently.
Like this plan? Make it yours
Same destination, your dates, budget, and pace — generated free in about a minute.
Customize this tripFreePart three
Food, shopping & festivals
Top 10 dishes to try
Banh Tom Ho Tay
Hanoi
📍 West Lake
Bun Dau Mam Tom
Hanoi
📍 Hang Khay Street
Bun Cha
Hanoi
📍 Old Quarter
Cha Ca La Vong
Hanoi
📍 Cha Ca Street
Banh Mi
Goi Cuon
Pho Bo
📍 Old Quarter
Bun Thit Nuong
Ho Chi Minh City
📍 District 3
Com Tam
Ho Chi Minh City
📍 District 1
Lau Ga
Hanoi
📍 Phung Hung Street
Markets & neighborhoods
The city center with high-density street food stalls, especially around Ben Thanh Market.
Famous for its residential-style eateries and quieter, authentic neighborhood Pho spots.
Legendary for its vibrant evening street food scene, perfect for grazing through local specialties.
The densest collection of street food stalls, especially Bun Cha and Pho.
Late-night hot pot restaurants.
Good to Know
Top 10 souvenirs
Coffee dripper
Hanoi
📍 Kitchenware stalls inside Dong Xuan Market.
Vietnamese Phin Coffee Filter
Ho Chi Minh City
This stainless steel slow-drip filter creates the thick, dark brew defining local coffee.
📍 Ben Thanh Market stalls or Highlands Coffee retail counters
Robusta coffee beans
Hanoi
Vietnam is the global leader in robusta, known for bold, chocolatey, low-acid profiles.
📍 Mai Ca Phe on Le Van Huu Street.
Single-Origin Dark Chocolate
Ho Chi Minh City
Rich, fruit-forward chocolate sourced exclusively from small-holder farms across the Mekong Delta.
📍 Maison Marou Saigon
Lacquerware Homeware
Ho Chi Minh City
Layers of natural resin create a deep, glossy finish on wood or bamboo bowls.
📍 Mekong Quilts or shops along Dong Khoi Street
Ceramic Tea Set
Ho Chi Minh City
Hand-painted blue and white porcelain known for its sturdy clay and history.
📍 Ceramic stores inside Binh Tay Market
Hand-embroidered linen
Hanoi
Meticulous needlework creates intricate landscapes and florals on high-quality linen.
📍 Tan My Design on Hang Gai Street.
Traditional lacquerware
Hanoi
📍 Hanoia in the Old Quarter.
Silk scarf
Hanoi
📍 Van Phuc Silk Village or dedicated silk shops on Hang Gai.
Custom Leather Sandals
Ho Chi Minh City
📍 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street district
Markets & districts
Coffee beans, spice mixes, dry snacks, phin filters
High-energy chaos that requires firm bargaining and attention to your pockets.
High-end textiles, tailoring, and embroidery.
Concentrated retail street focused on quality fabrics where bargaining is expected but often subtle.
Ceramics, incense, textiles, traditional medicine ingredients
Historical Chinese quarter that feels slower than the city center.
Good to Know
Tet
Tet Nguyen Dan
Feb 17
Vietnamese Lunar New Year with family gatherings, fireworks, and flower markets.
Hung Kings Temple Festival
Giỗ Tổ Hùng Vương
Reunification Day
Ngày Giải Phóng
Apr 30
April 30 marks the 1975 fall of Saigon and Vietnam's reunification. Ho Chi Minh City's Reunification Palace is the centerpiece; evening fireworks at the Saigon River and free museum entry.
Mid-Autumn Festival
Tet Trung Thu
Sep 25
Children's festival with colorful lantern processions through old quarters, lion dances, and mooncake sharing. Hanoi's Old Quarter is magical.
Vietnam National Day
Quốc Khánh
Part four
Costs & booking
- Total for a couple — 10 days mid-range trip, excludes international flights
- Accommodation assumes 1 shared room
- Rough estimates — actual prices vary by season and availability
Local Transport
Accommodation
AI estimated based on typical hotel costs
Food
Activities
Curious how this stacks up? See how trip costs compare across countries in our Trip Cost Index.
Cheap overall -- expect $30-70 per night for hotels and $2-5 for street meals. Bottled water only; stick to busy stalls with high turnover.
Use the Grab app for all transport; it prevents meter scams and keeps rides across city centers under $3-5.
Always have a specific hotel name ready when you land, even if you have not booked, to avoid taxi drivers overcharging or taking you to commission-based properties.
Book a street food walking tour in Hanoi for $40 per person; it covers 6-8 authentic dishes you might otherwise miss in the narrow alleyways.
Vietnam E-VisaDay 1
Book 3 weeks ahead -- Submit official E-Visa application via the government portal for entry into Vietnam. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days but can be delayed during peak travel seasons.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre ticketsDay 3
Book 1 week ahead -- Showtimes sell out daily, especially for weekend performances. Purchase tickets directly from the theater office or via their official website to ensure preferred seating.
Cu Chi Tunnels small group tourDay 9
Book 2 weeks ahead -- Popular morning tours of the tunnels fill up quickly. Booking a professional tour operator ensures round-trip transport and knowledgeable guides for the site.
Domestic flight from Hanoi (HAN) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)Day 6
Book 1 month ahead -- Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air flights between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are high-demand routes. Booking early secures better pricing and prevents sold-out status on preferred morning flights.
Bitexco Financial Tower Saigon Skydeck ticketDay 7
Book 3 days ahead -- While walk-ins are possible, booking the sunset time slot is recommended during busy weeks to avoid long waits for the elevator.
Part five
Before you go
Motorbikes dominate; growing ride-hailing adoption
Use Grab for safe, metered rides. Negotiate prices for cyclos before riding.
- Download the Grab app to book motorbike or car rides at transparent prices rather than haggling with street taxis.
- Cross busy streets like a local: walk at a slow, steady pace across the flow of traffic so drivers can predict your path.
- Buy a Vietnam Railways ticket online at dsvn.vn at least 7 days ahead for popular routes like Hanoi to Da Nang.
- Use a specific hotel address for taxi drivers, as many locals prefer clear landmarks or street numbers over generic names.
- Carry 50,000 VND notes for small purchases; many vendors lack change for 500,000 VND bills.
- Visit the Temple of Literature in Hanoi at 8am to avoid the surge of tour groups that arrive by 10am.
- Use the Google Translate offline pack for Vietnamese to read menus and signs when you travel outside city centers.
0 / 35 packed
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
Stay connected abroad
Get a local eSIM — no swapping physical SIMs
Visa & Entry Requirements
Most travelers need an e-Visa to enter. Apply at the official government portal (evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn) at least one week before your flight. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Noi Bai or Tan Son Nhat airport arrivals halls
📍 Airalo app online
Free, high-speed WiFi is ubiquitous in hotels, cafes, and restaurants; simply ask for the password. Connectivity in rural areas can be intermittent.
Local SIM cards are significantly cheaper than roaming with your home carrier. Ensure your phone is network-unlocked before you arrive.
Electric Socket Guide(220V · 50Hz)
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins (North America, Japan)
Two round pins (most of Europe, South America)
Tipping Etiquette
5–10% at upscale restaurants; not expected at street food
Round up to the nearest 10,000 VND
20,000–50,000 VND per bag for porters
Safety & Travel Advisories
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
113
115
114
Limited English — ask hotel for help calling
Payments
Cash is king, especially outside major cities
Accepted at hotels, upscale restaurants, and malls
Limited; cash and card are more common
Carry Vietnamese dong in small denominations. USD accepted at some tourist spots.
Most nationalities, including US, UK, and EU citizens, require an e-Visa. Applications typically take 3 to 5 business days to process. Check the official government website before you book your flights.
Traffic is chaotic and rules are often ignored. Only drive if you have a valid international motorcycle license and significant prior experience. Most travelers find Grab motorbike taxis safer and easier.
Only use established taxi companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun, or better yet, use the Grab app. If a driver claims your hotel is closed or fires have blocked the road, ignore them and insist on your destination.
Domestic flights are efficient for long distances like Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. For scenic routes, the train is comfortable, while private cars are best for regional travel where buses are too slow.
Tipping is not required or expected. It is not part of the culture and service staff will not be offended if you do not tip.
The Vietnamese Dong is the only legal tender. Carry cash for street food and markets, as credit card acceptance is limited outside of hotels and upscale restaurants.
No, drink only bottled or filtered water. Almost every hotel provides a kettle and complimentary bottled water; use these instead of the tap.
Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. Many temples require you to remove your hat and shoes before entering the main prayer areas.
These 7 experiences didn't make it into this itinerary
Scenic Nature Landscapes
e.g., Tam Coc, Trang An Grottoes
Saigon River Experiences
e.g., Saigon River Dinner Cruise, Saigon Waterbus
Iconic Street Scenes
e.g., Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Bui Vien Street
A Specialized Egg Coffee Experience
e.g., Cafe Giang, Cafe Dinh
A Serene Boat Excursion
e.g., Tam Coc Boat Ride, Trang An Landscape Complex Boat Tour
Authentic Craft Cocktail Bars
e.g., Drinking and Healing, Layla Eatery and Bar
Mekong Delta Nature Retreats
e.g., Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, Vam Sat Ecological Tourist Site
Create Your Custom Version
Download this Hanoi, Vietnam; Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam itinerary — day-by-day plan, maps, budget, and more.
You Might Also Like
Hanoi and Hoi An, Vietnam
Vietnam
This packed 7-day journey immerses a couple in Vietnam's rich heritage, spending 4 nights in Hanoi and 3 nights in Hoi An. Explore Hanoi's Temple of Literature and the bustling Hanoi Old Quarter, then fly south to discover Hoi An's iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and the ancient My Son Sanctuary....
Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Puerto Iguazu, and Bariloche, Argentina
Argentina
A 10-day Argentine adventure spanning Buenos Aires' Recoleta and San Telmo for tango and steak, the powerful Iguazu Falls, Mendoza's wine country, and Bariloche's scenic Nahuel Huapi National Park. This balanced trip includes three internal flights to connect diverse regions efficiently,...
Prague, Czech Republic; Vienna, Austria; Budapest, Hungary
Czech Republic And Austria And Hungary
This 10-day journey explores the Central European capitals of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. Begin in Prague, discovering Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square. Continue by train to Vienna for Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and an evening classical concert. Conclude...
Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai, China
China
This 10-day journey for a couple spans China's historical and modern heart, moving from Beijing to Xi'an, then Shanghai. Experience Beijing's Forbidden City, Xi'an's Terracotta Army and bustling Muslim Quarter, then Shanghai's iconic Bund, all at a balanced pace. High-speed rail efficiently...
Prefer to plan it yourself?
Start from a free, no-signup travel itinerary template. The Excel and Google Sheets versions auto-total the budget and split costs by who paid.
- Free travel itinerary template (all formats)
- Excel itinerary template
- Google Sheets template
- Word itinerary template
- Printable PDF template
- Google Docs itinerary template
- Notion template
- Bachelorette itinerary template
- Disney itinerary template
- Girls trip itinerary template
- Road trip itinerary template
- Business travel itinerary template
- Birthday trip itinerary template
- Family vacation itinerary template
- Honeymoon itinerary template