With two domestic flights, one week is enough for a first look at Vietnam from north to south. This route covers the country's classic highlights.
At a glance
- Day 1: Hanoi
- Days 2–3: Ha Long Bay cruise, then fly to Da Nang
- Days 4–5: Hoi An and the Golden Bridge
- Days 6–7: Ho Chi Minh City and the Cu Chi tunnels
Day 1: Hanoi
Arrive at Noi Bai airport (HAN), about 45 minutes from the Old Quarter. In the evening, walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and take a street-food tour. Try pho, bun cha and egg coffee.
Day 2: Ha Long Bay
Drive about 2.5 hours to the bay and board an overnight cruise. Spend the afternoon kayaking and swimming among the limestone islands, and watch the sunset from the deck.
Day 3: Fly to Da Nang
After early-morning tai chi and brunch on board, head back towards Hanoi airport for the flight to Da Nang, then drive about 45 minutes to Hoi An.
Day 4: Hoi An
Explore the Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Japanese Covered Bridge. Take a cooking class, then a lantern boat on the river at dusk.
Day 5: The Golden Bridge
Take the cable car up to Ba Na Hills to walk the Golden Bridge, held up by two giant stone hands. Spend a free evening in Hoi An, or have clothes made by one of the town's tailors.
Day 6: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City
Take a morning flight south, then visit the Cu Chi tunnels in the afternoon, about 1.5 to 2 hours from the city.
Day 7: Saigon
See the War Remnants Museum, the Central Post Office and Ben Thanh Market before your flight home.
Book it as a package
Our 7-day Vietnam Highlights trip follows this route, with 4-star hotels, a 5-star cruise, both domestic flights and airport transfers included.
Want to change it?
- More adventure: swap the south for the Ninh Binh and Ha Giang Loop trip.
- More beach: try the Hoi An and Phu Quoc trip.
- Short on time: the 4-day Hanoi and Ha Long Bay trip.
Before you go
Canadians need a visa for Vietnam. Apply for the e-visa online well before you travel. For weather by region, read our guide to the best time to visit Vietnam.
Travel rules and opening times change. Check travel.gc.ca for the latest entry requirements before you book flights.