Vietnam 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary: A Taste of the North

This itinerary offers a glimpse into Northern Vietnam’s rich culture and stunning scenery. It focuses on Hanoi as a base for exploring the region but can be adapted to suit your interests!

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi & Old Quarter Exploration

  • Fly into Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi.
  • Transfer: Take a taxi or Grab car from the airport to your hotel in the Old Quarter. (Expect to pay around $10-15 USD for a taxi, and ensure you have your visa sorted beforehand - more on that later!)
  • Things to do: Explore the labyrinthine streets of the Old Quarter, enjoying its vibrant street life, charming shops, and delicious street food. Wander through the Hoan Kiem Lake area, visit the Temple of Literature, or take a stroll through the bustling night market.

Day 2: Hanoi’s History & Culture

  • Visit:
    • Hoa Lo Prison: Learn about Vietnam’s struggle for independence and the impact of the war.
    • Hanoi Museum: Explore the history of Hanoi from its ancient origins to modern times.
    • Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show: A unique art form that originated in the Red River Delta.

Day 3: Day trip to Halong Bay

  • Day trip: Take a scenic cruise through the breathtaking limestone islands of Halong Bay. Explore hidden caves and enjoy kayaking or swimming in the emerald waters.
  • Transportation: Consider a bus tour, boat trip, or hiring a private car to reach Ha Long Bay.

Day 4: Hanoi’s Culinary Delights

  • Take a cooking class: Immerse yourself in the world of Vietnamese cuisine and learn to prepare authentic dishes like Pho and Goi Cuon.
  • Explore local markets: Wander through Dong Xuan Market, Hang Da Market, or the Old Quarter Night Market for a true taste of Vietnamese life.

Day 5: Ancient History & Scenic Views

  • Visit the Hoan Kiem Temple (Ngoc Son Temple) and explore the surrounding islands:

Day 6: Tranquility & Traditions

  • Experience the peacefulness of Halong Bay’s islands. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese “Pho” cooking class.
  • Explore other cultural attractions like the ancient fishing village, the Cat Cat Village, or the Thang Long Imperial Citadel

Day 7: Departure from Hanoi

  • Departure from Hanoi: Head to the airport with memories of the beautiful landscapes and delicious food.

Things to know:

  • Best time to visit: The best time for this itinerary is during the dry season in Vietnam (November - April).
  • Visa requirements: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Vietnam. Check your country’s specific requirements before you go.
  • Currency: The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND).

Day trips are possible from Hanoi, but it’s best to plan for at least one full day trip:

  • Halong Bay: A scenic cruise through the bay allows you to see its beauty and experience its unique charm.
  • Other options: Consider a day trip to Ninh Binh, known as “Ha Long Bay on land” for its stunning limestone formations.

Accommodation:

  • Hanoi offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels in the Old Quarter to luxurious hotels.

Transportation:

  • Internal flights: Convenient but can be expensive.
  • Buses: Affordable and a great way to see the countryside.
  • Trains: A scenic and comfortable option for traveling longer distances.
  • Motorbikes & bicycles: Widely available for rent, these are a fun way to explore the city and the surrounding area.

Tips for a Smooth Trip:

  • Hanoi is a great base for exploring other parts of Vietnam. You can take a bus or train to beautiful destinations like Sapa (for stunning mountain views and rice terraces) or Hue (for historical monuments and imperial tombs).

  • Consider a “visa on arrival” option for easier access.

  • Food: Be sure to try the local delicacies while you’re there!

Enjoy your trip!