Quintessential Vietnam Itinerary (7 Days) for Tourists

Vietnam is a charming, beautiful country in Southeast Asia known for coffee, calming beaches, and chaotic streets. The country is the best place to party, shop, and explore a diverse culture. 

This Vietnam itinerary (7 days) covers cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, and Hanoi. The perfect South to North journey that allows you to experience the different regions, diverse cuisines, and cultural activities that Vietnam has to offer!

Perfect Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days

Here is the perfect itinerary with the best places to visit in Vietnam in 7 days:

Week Plan	Things To Do
Day 1	Land in Ho Chi Minh City and get ready for a city tour in District 1. Visit the landmark spots. Try some local restaurants and street vendors in Ben Thanh Market.
Day 2	The second day is for some cultural activity, museum hopping, and shopping in the local markets. You can also book yourself a spa day and enjoy a hearty meal with drinks at a rooftop bar.
Day 3	Head to Hoi An via flight. Check in and take a short evening stroll to get your first glimpse of the lantern-lit streets, yellow buildings, and the gorgeous canal.
Day 4	Begin your exploration of the enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its pedestrian-friendly streets and admire the well-preserved architecture. Get some tailor-made clothes in 24 hours!
Day 5	Enjoy some local cuisine in Hoi An, shop at the local boutiques before taking a flight to Hanoi.
Day 6	Spend your day exploring Hanoi, trying its local delicacies, and taking some Instagram-worthy pictures at the local landmarks.
Day 7	Kickstart your final day by visiting the Harry Potter cafe or the Note Cafe, and indulge in some street shopping and food. Book a cab to the airport so you arrive in time for your flight home.

Travelling to Vietnam: Flight, Visa, and Tips 

Here’s a brief regarding flights, visas, and travel tips to help you plan your trip:

• Flights from India to Vietnam are affordable; the costs are as low as ₹20,000.
• Internal flights can cost you anywhere between ₹7,000 and ₹10,000.
• Indians are eligible for an electronic Vietnam visa, which is easily accessible. 

Tips: 

• The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong. Familiarize yourself with the denominations.
• Dress modestly when visiting temples, pagodas, and other religious sites.
• Buy a local SIM from Circle K and FamilyMart. 
• Use high SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and sunglasses.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites to prevent diseases.
• Drink bottled or purified water. Avoid ice in drinks from unreliable sources. 

Day 1: Welcome to Vietnam, Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City

Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) and clear immigration and customs. Look for pre-booked airport transfer services or use a reputable taxi from the official taxi counters. For affordable rides, you can use Grab to book your ride. The drive to District 1 takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Check into your hotel in District 1, the city’s vibrant heart. Leave your luggage and take a moment to refresh. Step out and get a feel for the bustling city. 

Things to Do:

• Reunification Palace is a historical site that was once the residence and workplace of the President of South Vietnam. 
• Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts is an iconic landmark that houses Vietnam’s fine art collection. 
• Jade Emperor Pagoda is an intricate Buddhist Temple that houses Taoist figures and worships Jade Emperor. 
• Admire the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a striking red-brick cathedral built during the French colonial era.
• Plan a trip to the beautiful Saigon Post Office, another impressive French colonial building with a grand interior. Admire its architecture and send a postcard. 
• Grab a strong Vietnamese coffee at the popular Cafe Apartments. This nine-storeyed building houses independent cafes, workshops, boutique fashion stores, and co-working spaces. 

Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in District 1. Try Banh Xeo (crispy savory pancake filled with sprouts, shrimp, and pork) or Goi Cuon (fresh spring rolls). 

After dinner, if it’s a weekend, experience the lively night market at Ben Thanh Market, where you can find souvenirs, street food, and trinkets. 

Must Read: Solo Travel in Vietnam: Your Ultimate Guide

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City: Museums, Cafes & Spas

Start your day with a visit to the War Remnants Museum. This museum offers a powerful and often moving perspective on the Vietnam War through photographs, artifacts, and exhibits. 

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. If you wish to try Vietnamese food, here are some restaurants to visit:

• Tung’s Restaurant: Must try Fresh Rolls, Fried Rice, Spring Roll 
• Home Saigon Restaurant: Must try Chicken Curry with Coconut Rice
• A Taste Of Saigon – Old Market: Must try Shrimps, Tofu, and Broken Rice with BBQ pork
• Hoang’s Kitchen: Known for serving Vietnamese cuisine and vegetarian dishes

Spend the afternoon exploring the Ben Thanh Market. You can browse various goods, from clothing and textiles to handicrafts and local produce. 

After shopping, you must book yourself a spa day. Some options include:

• Temple Leaf Sauna & Spa
• MIDO LUXURY SPA
• Reverie Spa Saigon
• The Prive SPA

Enjoy drinks with a view at one of Ho Chi Minh City’s many rooftop bars, such as Banana Mama Rooftop Bar & Kitchen Saigon, Chạng Vạng Rooftop, and Social Club Rooftop Bar.

If you enjoy partying, head to Bui Vien Street. This street is also called the walking street of Ho Chi Minh City, where you can find party hostels, street-side bars, restaurants, and clubs. You can get the cheapest beer and street food in this area. 

Also Read: Visa Rejection Reasons for Vietnam: How to Avoid!

Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An

The third day of a 1-week itinerary in Vietnam is a hectic one. If your flight is in the evening, make time for a day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels, about 1.5-2 hours from Ho Chi Minh City. 

• You can book a guided tour through your hotel or a travel agency like Klook or Headout.
• Explore the extensive network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. 

You can also spend a relaxed morning in the capital city, soak up the vibes, and then head straight to the airport. The flight to Da Nang International Airport is roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Upon arrival in Da Nang, collect your luggage and take a taxi or pre-booked transfer to your hotel in Hoi An (about a 30-45 minute drive). 

Check in and take a short evening stroll to get your first glimpse of the lantern-lit streets, yellow buildings, and the gorgeous canal. 

Also Read: Winter in Vietnam: Travel Guide & Seasonal Highlights

Day 4: Hoi An – Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage

Begin your exploration of the enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its pedestrian-friendly streets and admire the well-preserved architecture. 

• Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An. 
• Explore the Fujian Assembly Hall, showcasing intricate architecture and cultural heritage. 
• Consider visiting a traditional family chapel or the Old House of Tan Ky.
• Hội An Night Market is a perfect spot to try street food and buy amazing clothes, accessories, and vintage bags. 
• Go on a coconut boat and explore the stunning Bay Mau Coconut Forest. 

Hoi An is renowned for its tailor shops. If you want custom-made clothing, browse the shops and choose a tailor. Discuss your desired items and get measured. Allow at least 24 hours for the process, including fittings.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the Ancient Town. Later, explore the numerous art galleries and handicraft shops in Hoi An. You might find unique souvenirs or artwork. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at a riverside café, watching the boats go by.

As dusk settles, Hoi An transforms into a magical scene with thousands of colorful lanterns illuminating the streets. Take a stroll along the Thu Bon River. 

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant overlooking the river, savoring local specialties. You release a paper lantern onto the river for good luck.

Dining Recommendations: 

• FireFly Restaurant & Bar: Must try Chicken Satay fried rice, Rose dumplings, Claypot 
• QQ restaurant Hoi An: Must try Fried Fish and Sweet Sauce, Chicken with Mushroom Clay Pot, Coconut Coffee
• Baba’s Kitchen Indian Restaurant HA: Best known for Chicken Briyani, Dosa, Gobi Manchurian
• MAAZI Hoi An: Known for Pani puri, Chicken Tikka, Naan, Butter Chicken 
• Pause and Enjoy Restaurant: Must try Bun Cha (Noodles and Meatballs), Chicken Claypot, Vietnamese Pancakes, and Fresh Coconut

Must Read: Vietnam in February: Weather, Festivals, & Highlights

Day 5: Hoi An to Hanoi 

Hoi An is filled with activities and adventures, but if you are on a tight 7-day trip to Vietnam, you must pick the activity that intrigues you the most: 

• Tra Que Vegetable Village: Visit this charming village by bicycle or short taxi to learn about traditional organic farming practices. You can also participate in gardening activities and enjoy a fresh lunch prepared with local ingredients.
• An Bang Beach: Take a taxi or motorbike to An Bang Beach (around 4km away) for some relaxation on the sand and a swim in the sea. Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.
• My Son Sanctuary: If you’re interested in ancient history, consider a half-day trip to My Son Sanctuary, the ruins of an ancient Cham civilization.

Enjoy some free time to wander through the Ancient Town, do some last-minute souvenir shopping, or relax at a café. Have a farewell dinner at one of your favorite Hoi An restaurants.

Dining Options:

• Tuan Restaurant & Cafe: Known for Grilled Pork, Lemongrass Chili Stir-Fried Chicken, and Cao Lầu.
• Aunt Hat Mi Quang Noodles: To try Hoi An’s famous Mi Quang
• White Rose Restaurant: Must try White Rose dumplings and Fried Wontons. 
• Morning Glory Original: Try the famous Bun Thit Nuong, Mango Sticky Rice, Cao Lau Noodles
• Miss Anh’s Banh Xeo: Serves the best Banh Xeo (the Vietnamese pancakes)

Also Read: Honeymoon in Vietnam – Top Romantic Spots 

Day 6: Hanoi City Tour

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Hoi An. You can head to Phin Coffee Restaurant or Rosie’s Cafe. 

Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for a final stroll through the Ancient Town or a coffee by the river. 

Arrange for a transfer back to Da Nang International Airport. Check in for your domestic flight to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes).

Upon arrival in Hanoi, collect your luggage and take a taxi or pre-booked transfer to your hotel in the Old Quarter (around 45-60 minutes). Check in and leave your luggage.

Take a walk through the bustling Old Quarter of Hanoi. Notice the narrow, winding streets, the vibrant street life, and the mix of traditional and colonial architecture.

Enjoy a traditional Northern Vietnamese dinner. You must try Bun Cha (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles and dipping sauce) or Pho Ga (chicken noodle soup). You can find these dishes at street vendors anywhere. 

Dining Options for local dishes: 

• Bun Cha Nem at 6 Ngõ Trạm Street: Known for Bun Cha Nem 
• Street vendors in Trung Yen Alley: Known for Bun Cha Nem
• Bánh Cuốn Nóng Kim Thoa: Known for banh cuon

• Maison de Lien: Popular for Banh mi

• Tram Banh My: Popular for Banh mi

• Pho Gia Truyen Bat Dan: Known for Pho
• Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su: Known for Pho
• 23 Nguyen Sieu Street: Known for bún riêu
• 56 Khâm Thiên: Known for Vietnamese hot pot 

Also Read: Vietnam Visa Extension for Indian Tourists: Complete Guide

Day 7: Farewell: Souvenirs, Relaxation, and Departure

Begin your day by visiting some of Hanoi’s most famous cafes for a hearty breakfast. Spend the afternoon exploring the streets for some shopping and sightseeing. 

• The Note Coffee: Leave notes, try pastries along with coconut coffee, and egg chocolate
• Always Cafe – A magical wizard cafe: A Harry Potter themed cafe, and must try for Molly’s hot chocolate.
• Tranquil Books & Coffee: Known for Iced Vietnamese coffee, Vietnamese egg coffee, and a perfect place to read and work. 

Things To Do:

• Admire the beautiful Hanoi Opera House
• Visit the nearby One Pillar Pagoda, a unique and historically significant temple.
• Check out the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, dating back to the 11th century. 
• Visit the Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton), a former French colonial prison with a poignant history. 
• Hoan Kiem Lake is the central landmark of Hanoi. Take a leisurely walk around the lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple, situated on a small island in the lake, connected by the iconic red Huc Bridge.
• Check out the St. Joseph Cathedral, an imposing example of colonial architecture. 

You might have time for last-minute souvenir shopping in the Old Quarter, depending on your flight schedule. Roam the streets of Dong Xuan Market in the heart of the Old Quarter or visit the Vincom Center on Ba Trieu Street.

Book a cab to the Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for your departure flight.

Also Read: Plan a Memorable Trip During Spring in Vietnam

Accommodations in Vietnam

Here are some hotel recommendations that will make your Vietnam 7 day travel plan easier to manage: 

Ho Chi Minh City
Budget	Sky Center Hostel Silverland Jolie Hotel Sanouva Saigon Hotel Riverside Hotel Saigon Zazz Urban Ho Chi Minh Hotel
Mid-Range	La Vela Saigon Hotel Holiday Inn & Suites Saigon Airport Windsor Plaza Hotel Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel Pullman Saigon Centre
Luxury	The Reverie Saigon Park Hyatt Saigon Hotel Des Arts Saigon Mgallery Collection Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel InterContinental Saigon

 

Hoi An
Budget	Hoian Sincerity Hotel & Spa White House Central Villa Fivitel Hoi An Hotel Golden Pearl Hoi An Hotel Ally Beach Boutique Hotel Hoian
Mid-Range	Lasenta Boutique Hotel Hoi An RiverTown Hoi An Resort & Spa Hadana Boutique Resort Hoi An Lantana Boutique Hotel Hoi An Little Hoi An. A Boutique Hotel & Spa
Luxury	La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa Anantara Hoi An Resort Hotel Royal Hoi An – MGallery Little Riverside. A Luxury Hotel & Spa Almanity Hoi An Resort & Spa

 

Hanoi
Budget	Omina Hanoi Hotel & Travel Hanoi Center Silk Classic Hotel & Travel Splendid Holiday Hotel Spa Hanoi Center Silk Hotel & Travel Hanoi Memory Premier Hotel & Spa
Mid-Range	JM Marvel Hotel & Spa The Oriental Jade Hotel Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel Hanoi La Siesta Hotel Trendy Tirant Hotel
Luxury	Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi Capella Hanoi Lotte Hotel Hanoi InterContinental Hanoi Westlake

Also Read: How to Book a Vietnam Visa Appointment + Tips

Shopping in Vietnam

When it comes to shopping, Vietnam is a paradise for aesthetic clothes, leather bags, shoes, and accessories. You can find a dupe of your favourite luxury brands at dirt-cheap prices. Here’s a mini guide on where to shop when in Vietnam: 

Ho Chi Minh City	Ben Thanh Market: A historic and bustling central market offering a wide array of goods, from clothing and accessories to handicrafts and souvenirs. It’s a great place to experience local trading and sample Vietnamese street food. Best buys: Vietnamese silk, traditional Ao Dai dresses, conical hats (Non La), and local spices. Saigon Square: A popular indoor shopping center known for its affordable clothing, shoes, bags, and jewelry. Bargaining is common here. Best buys: Budget-friendly fashion items and accessories. Dong Khoi Street: An upscale shopping street in District 1, home to high-end boutiques, international fashion brands, art galleries, and souvenir shops. Best buys: Luxury fashion, jewelry, and Vietnamese artwork. Vincom Center Dong Khoi: A modern shopping mall with a mix of international and local brands, department stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Best buys: Cosmetics, electronics, and fashion apparel. An Dong Market: One of the oldest and largest wholesale markets in Ho Chi Minh City, primarily focused on textiles, clothing, and shoes. You can also find handicrafts and food stalls. Best buys: Fabrics, wholesale clothing, and locally made shoes.
Hoi An	Hoi An Central Market: A vibrant market located by the Thu Bon River, offering fresh produce, seafood, spices, clothing, textiles, and souvenirs. It’s also a great place to find local tailors. Best buys: Fresh local produce, spices, tailored clothing, and silk products. Hoi An Night Market: A lively market that comes alive in the evening, selling lanterns, souvenirs, clothing, handicrafts, and street food. Best buys: Colorful lanterns, small souvenirs, and local snacks.    Hoi An Silk Village: A traditional village showcasing the silk-making process, from silkworm cultivation to weaving. You can purchase high-quality silk products and tailor-made clothing. Best buys: Authentic silk fabrics, tailored silk garments, and silk accessories.   Reaching Out Arts and Crafts: A social enterprise that sells high-quality handicrafts made by people with disabilities. You can find unique ceramics, wood carvings, jewelry, and other artisanal products. Best buys: Handmade ceramics, tea sets, and unique souvenirs with a social impact.   Numerous Tailor Shops: Hoi An is famous for its skilled tailors who can create custom-made clothing in various styles and fabrics at reasonable prices. Explore the numerous shops in the Ancient Town. Best buys: Custom-tailored clothing (suits, dresses, shirts) made from silk, cotton, or linen.
Hanoi	Old Quarter: A maze of narrow streets filled with shops selling a wide variety of goods, including silk, handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, and traditional medicine. Explore streets like Hang Gai (Silk Street) and Hang Bac (Silver Street). Best buys: Silk products, traditional handicrafts, silver jewelry, and lacquerware. Dong Xuan Market: The largest indoor market in Hanoi, offering a vast array of products, from clothing and accessories to household goods and electronics, often at wholesale prices. Best buys: Affordable clothing, fabrics, and a wide variety of goods. Hanoi Weekend Night Market: A bustling street market held on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings in the Old Quarter, offering clothing, accessories, souvenirs, street food, and a lively atmosphere. Best buys: Budget-friendly clothing, souvenirs, and local street food. Trang Tien Plaza: A high-end shopping mall located near Hoan Kiem Lake, featuring international luxury brands, cosmetics, jewelry, and electronics. Best buys: Luxury fashion items, cosmetics, and high-end electronics. Bat Trang Ceramic Village: Located on the outskirts of Hanoi, this traditional village is renowned for its ceramics and pottery. You can find a wide range of products, from decorative items to tableware. Best buys: Authentic Vietnamese ceramics and pottery.

Entertainment in Vietnam 

Vietnam is a place of parties and entertainment. Night markets and streets are dedicated to late-night clubs, bars, pubs, and restaurants. If you love to party, head to Bui Vien Street and District 1 in Ho Chi Minh and Ta Hien Street and Hanoi Night Market in Hanoi. 

Another popular source of entertainment in big cities is karaoke bars. Grab your friends and head to Avatar Karaoke in Ho Chi Minh and Karaoke Top One KTV in Hanoi for a fun singing standoff. 

Must Read: Nightlife in Vietnam: 18 Best Clubs & Beachfront Parties!

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FAQs

Is 7 days enough to explore Vietnam?

Yes, 7 days are enough to explore Vietnam. You can cover the popular destinations like Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, and Hanoi. These cities are connected by flights and are easy to visit. They are the heart of Vietnam with the best food, parties and architecture. 

What is the average daily cost for a 7-day itinerary in Vietnam?

The average daily cost for a 7-day itinerary in Vietnam is 5000-6000 per person. You can reduce this cost by eating locally, staying in dorms at hostels, and partying in night markets. 

Which is the best month to visit Vietnam?

The best time to visit Vietnam is generally from March to May or September to November. The weather in the country can get hot and humid; these months offer a relief from the harsh sun. 

How much money to take to Vietnam for 7 days?

You can explore Vietnam under ₹1 lakh easily and cover a bunch to cities. The accommodations are cheap, flights to Vietnam are affordable and the street food is a great way to save money. 

Which area of Vietnam is best to stay in?

The best places to stay in Hanoi are the Old Quarter, and in Ho Chi Minh City, you must try in District 1. In Hoi An, you can stay near the lake to soak in the vibes.

How do I get around in Vietnam?

Vietnam is well-connected by buses and cabs. You can download the Grab app and get scooter rides to roam around in cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. You can also get your scooter, but be careful, the traffic and riders in Vietnam can be dangerous. 

What does a 7-day Vietnam itinerary include?

A Vietnam Itinerary 7 days must include popular cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An and Hanoi. You can visit these cities to soak in the culture, admire its past, enjoy its food and buy the best souvenirs and clothes for your family.