Vietnam wasn’t on our travel radar—at least, not anytime soon, but Netflix had other plans! After watching A Tourist’s Guide to Love, we couldn’t resist and found ourselves booking tickets for two unforgettable weeks in this stunning country. And let me tell you, Vietnam absolutely stole our hearts. From the warm and welcoming people to the mouthwatering food and breathtaking landscapes, this Southeast Asian gem has it all.
Over the course of our 2 weeks in Vietnam, we explored it all – and now we’re excited to share our ultimate itinerary, so you too can experience the magic of Vietnam just like we did!😉
View this post on Instagram
Things to know before planning your trip to Vietnam:
- When planning your trip to Vietnam, keep in mind that a round-trip ticket might not be the best option since you’ll likely be exploring the country from north to south or the other way around. For instance, if you start your journey in Hanoi, after two weeks of adventure, you’ll probably be departing from Ho Chi Minh City.
- Vietnam has four main airports you can fly into—Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, and Phu Quoc—but Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are the most popular starting points for international travellers. So, it’s smart to book a one-way in and out of different cities to make the most of your itinerary!
- A one-way flight to Hanoi typically costs between ₹9,000 and ₹12,000, depending on how early you book. While VietJet may offer cheaper prices, we recommend going with Vietnam Airlines or Indigo for a more reliable and comfortable experience.
- Vietnam offers a hassle-free e-visa process, making it easy to plan your trip. Be sure to apply for your Vietnam e-visa only through the official government website to avoid any extra fees or scams! Vietnam e-visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days and can be used for either single or multiple entries. For a single entry, the visa costs $25 per person, and the application is typically processed within three working days. E-Visa Link.
- When you arrive at the airports in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll notice currency exchange stalls. While they’re convenient, the exchange rates aren’t the best. I’d recommend changing just a small amount—enough to cover your taxi fare—and then head into the city where you can find much better rates. Banks usually offer the best exchange rates and are the safest option. The major banks to look for are Vietcombank, Agribank, and they’re open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1INR=293 VND ($1=24565 VND).
- The best time to visit Vietnam depends on which part of the country you’re planning to explore. Generally, spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best seasons. Avoid the summer (May to August) in the north and central regions as it can get quite hot, humid, and rainy.
- Credit cards and ATMs are widely available in Vietnam. Be aware using cards in Vietnam can come with a 3%-4% commission fee. You can use payment cards at most restaurants, shops and hotels. That said, street food stalls and local markets usually don’t accept cards. So, it’s a good idea to always keep some cash on hand. Another option is gold shops, which are reliable and quick for currency exchange, though they mainly deal with US dollars. Just be sure to count your money carefully before leaving!
- Buying a SIM card in Vietnam is super easy! There are three main providers to choose from: Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone. We opted for a Viettel tourist SIM card with a 15-day validity for $13. It’s a bit more expensive, but it’s worth it for the best network coverage. The easiest place to buy a SIM card is either at the airport or at one of the official stores of the mobile network providers. Although Vietnam has Free Wifi almost everywhere.
- For intercity transfers in Vietnam, you have several convenient options, including flights, sleeper buses, and shared limousines. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly choice, buses are the way to go. Keep reading to find out where we opted for each type of transport during our travels!
- Since Uber isn’t available in Vietnam, I highly recommend downloading the GRAB or GOJEK app for affordable city rides. Another budget-friendly option is renting a two-wheeler, which is easily available at most hotels. Just make sure you have a valid driver’s license! Typically, an automatic scooter costs around 180k VND (7$) for 24 hours, and gasoline is about 22k VND (1$) per litre. Always stick to the rightmost lane when driving and remember that wearing a helmet is mandatory. Also, make sure you’re a confident and experienced driver before hitting the busy streets!
- Since English isn’t widely spoken in Vietnam, it’s a good idea to download a language translator app before your trip. Make sure to keep it available offline too, as you may not always have internet access.
- One important thing to keep in mind is that hotels and homestays in Vietnam can be quite strict about their check-in and check-out timings. So, it’s a good idea to stay flexible when making your bookings. Also, free water isn’t always provided at every hotel, so it’s best to carry your own reusable water bottle to avoid plastic waste.
- Vietnamese food is some of the most delicious you’ll find in Southeast Asia, with a wide variety of flavors to explore. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or a meat lover, there are plenty of restaurants catering to all preferences. If you’re a coffee enthusiast, Vietnam is a paradise with an incredible range of coffee to try. And for beer lovers, you can enjoy freshly crafted beer for as low as 10,000 VND (less than half-a-dollar) —it doesn’t get much better than that!
- Moreover, the Vietnamese people are incredibly warm and welcoming—some of the friendliest you’ll ever meet. Even with the language barrier, they’re always open to helping and go out of their way to make your experience memorable😊.
Important Tip: While flying to Da Nang and Phu Quoc, avoid carrying your drones. Vietnam has strict regulations about drone usage, especially near airports and certain tourist areas, and it may lead to confiscation or fines. Always check local laws before packing one!
Also check out : 6 Essential Packing Tips For International Travel- Avoid Stress and Stay Organised
How to spend 2 weeks in Vietnam- Detailed Itinerary
Vietnam’s diverse geography offers so much to explore, and to truly experience it, you’ll need at least 10-15 days. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve put together a detailed itinerary on how you can spend amazing 2 weeks in Vietnam. Let’s dive into the adventure!
Day 0-2: Hanoi
Day 3-4: Ninh-Binh
Day 5-8: Danang & Hoi An
Day 9-10: Ho Chi Minh
Day 11-13: Mui Ne/ Dalat
Day 14: Return to Ho Chi Minh and Fly back home
Day 0-2: Hanoi
We arrived at our hotel around midnight and went straight to bed. The next morning, we took it slow, soaking in the vibe of this new country. If you’re planning your stay, it’s best to book a hotel in the Old Quarters, where everything is easily accessible. We stayed at Diamond Legend Hotel, which was a fantastic budget-friendly option in the heart of the Old Quarters. The rooms were clean and comfortable.
We spent the first day exploring the area on foot, starting with a stroll around the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake, which is popular among both locals and tourists. The lake is surrounded by small patches of flowers, adding a lovely touch to the scenery. For a perfect coffee break, head to the popular and Instagram-worthy Note Café. We highly recommend trying their famous egg coffee and croissants. Grab a window seat for a relaxing view of the bustling streets below.
In the evening, the Old Quarters come alive with energy. For dinner, we indulged in some local Pho and beer at ZO 26, where the food was tasty and authentic. If you’re here on a Saturday, don’t miss the night market, where you can get a glimpse of local life and shop souvenirs as low as for $1.
The next morning, reserve time for a day trip to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village. Though the reviews online are mixed, we decided to experience it ourselves, and it was worth the visit. This village has been making incense sticks for over a century, and it’s located about 35 km from Hanoi. The best time to explore is between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m., as the incense sticks are laid out to dry in the sun during the morning hours.
As you enter the village, you’ll be greeted by colorful bundles of incense tied together and spread out like blooming flowers—truly a sight to behold! You can also learn about the traditional art of incense making and get a glimpse of the daily life of the locals. Keep in mind, though, that visiting is chargeable. Even taking photos or videos will cost you some VND, so be prepared for that. Also, make sure to have Google Translator handy, as communication can be a bit challenging!
Pro Tip: Plan your visit to Quang Phu Cau on a bright, sunny day. Additionally, explore the enclosed workshops located in the village’s interiors, where you can witness the entire incense-making process up close.
For lunch, grab a delicious Banh Mi at Banh Mi 25, a popular spot where you’ll almost always find a queue—but it’s worth the wait! In the evening, head over to Tran Quoc Pagoda and time your visit around sunset. This ancient Buddhist temple offers a serene escape and is perfect for some much-needed calm after a busy day.
For dinner, head to Ta Hien Street, also known as the “Beer Street” of Hanoi, where the lively atmosphere will have you vibing along with the locals. If you’re a vegetarian, try Little Hanoi for some tasty vegan dishes. The street is lined with cute cafés, so there’s plenty to explore as you enjoy the evening! For people with sweet tooth, head to King’s Roti for a Chocolate or Vanilla Vietnamese Roti😋.
Other must-visit spots in Hanoi include the famous Hanoi Train Street, best visited early in the morning. Be sure to check the train timings with your hotel in advance, as the schedule can vary. It’s an exciting experience watching the train pass just inches away from the narrow houses and cafés! Another gem to explore is the Temple of Literature, a stunning historic site.
Day 3-4: Ninh Binh
The next morning, we headed to Ninh Binh and booked a limousine transfer through Duy Khang( for both transfers). It was a fantastic choice! The service included hotel pickup and drop-off, comfy massaging chairs, free Wi-Fi, water, and wipes. The ride took around 2 hours and was super relaxing.
We stayed at Tam Coc Boutique Hotel, which was perfect for its proximity to all the main spots. After a bit of rest, we set out to explore Tam Coc Bich Dong, a beautiful 3-layered pagoda nestled in a dense green forest. You can either walk to the pagoda or rent a bicycle or scooter to explore the area—it’s peaceful and stunning!(all thanks to rain)
Pro Tip: Entry to the Tam Coc Bich Dong Pagoda is free but remember to dress respectfully when visiting. Both men and women should cover their knees and shoulders while inside the temple.
Reserve your early morning for a visit to Hang Mua Caves to catch a breathtaking 360-degree view of Ninh Binh. It’s a 500-step trail that leads to two different viewpoints, each offering stunning panoramas of the region’s landscapes. The entry fee is 100k VND per person, but if you choose to stay within the area, the entry is free. The beauty of this place will leave you in awe, making the climb totally worth it!
For your evening, plan a visit to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes. This eco-friendly boat tour takes you through tranquil rivers, temples, and caves, offering a peaceful experience. Aim to start your tour by 3 p.m. so you can catch the beautiful sunset as you glide through the waterways.
The ticket costs 250k VND per person for a 3-hour journey, with three different routes to choose from. We highly recommend going with Route 3, as it includes the 1,000-meter-long Dot Cave, the longest cave in the area. Trust me, this was the highlight of our trip—it’s breathtaking!
Ninh Binh has plenty of fantastic restaurants to satisfy your cravings. For vegetarians and vegans, I highly recommend Buddha Belly. They serve great-quality food, and the owner is super friendly. You absolutely must try their glass fried noodles and vegetable rice paper rolls—they’re to die for!
If you’re a non-vegetarian, don’t miss the sweet and sour chicken with rice at Thuy Linh. It’s a local favourite! Additionally, make sure to try egg beer at Gia Bao—it’s a unique treat—and Com Chay (burnt rice) with soy sauce at the Family restaurant. Trust me, you’ll be thanking me later for these recommendations!😊
One of a kind Pagoda in Ninh Binh!
View this post on Instagram
Day 5-8: Da nang & Hoi An
We flew from Hanoi to Da Nang, and the city greeted us with bright, sunny days. It was the perfect chance to soak in the vibrant city vibes. While in Da Nang, there are a few must-see spots:
- The Marble Mountains, a stunning cluster of limestone hills with caves and pagodas.
- A day trip to Ba Na Hills, where you can explore the Golden Bridge and enjoy the panoramic views.
- The mesmerizing night light show at Dragon Bridge, which you shouldn’t miss.
Although Da Nang was not our main destination, it was a great start to our journey. Just an hour from Da Nang lies the enchanting town of Hoi An, which quickly became our personal favourite! This romantic lantern-lit town is a bucket-list destination!
As you explore Hoi An Ancient Town, you’ll instantly fall in love with its charm. The entire town, painted in warm yellow hues, is a feast for the eyes. Start your evening with a leisurely stroll along the Thu Bon River. The stunning sunset by the river is an experience you won’t forget. The area comes alive as the sun sets, transforming the river into a magical scene lit by colourful lanterns (you can also attend a lantern festival).
Indulge in all the touristy activities—take a boat ride and release your own lanterns into the water. Enjoy the lively nightlife of Hoi An on foot, soaking up the atmosphere. The street food here is next level; you must try the crepes, wrapped bananas with sticky rice, and fresh rice paper rolls. Don’t forget to visit the Hoi An Market, which is filled with high-quality souvenirs. They may be a bit pricey, but trust me, they’re worth every dong!
Another must-visit activity in Hoi An is visiting a coconut village, which will truly enhance your experience. Use the GRAB app to get to the Basket Boat Cafe, a super cute hidden gem with lovely outdoor seating under swaying palm trees. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing coconut coffee before diving into the adventure!
Ask the cafe manager to arrange a basket boat tour for you. The ride lasts about 45 minutes, and I promise you’ll have the time of your life! During the tour, you’ll witness locals dancing, singing, and performing right in the middle of the river, creating a lively and unforgettable atmosphere. And don’t miss out on taking a spin in the boat—it’s one hell of an adventure! The boat tour will cost around 200k VND, with an additional 100k VND for the spin. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
Hoi An is particularly famous for its fabrics and custom-tailored clothes, making it a shopper’s paradise! If you’re looking to get something stitched, be sure to check out Da Phuong Shop at number 50. Their craftsmanship is impeccable, and they can create any design you desire in less than 24 hours.
For a quick meal, Bahn Mi Phuong is a great choice. Don’t forget to sip in Mot, a Vietnamese Herbal Tea, decorated with lotus petals, only found in Hoi An😋.
Consider staying at Tam Hong Phuc Homestay during your time in Hoi An. It boasts a great location with spacious, clean rooms and friendly owners who make you feel right at home. Plus, you’ll love the fresh homemade breakfast they offer each morning. As a bonus, they provide free bicycles for you to explore the town at your leisure!
Getting to and from Da Nang Airport is a breeze. You can either use the Grab app for a quick ride or opt for a shared limousine service from the airport. After soaking in the charm of Hoi An, it’s time to take a flight to your next exciting destination: Ho Chi Minh City!
Day 9-10: Ho Chi Minh City
After exploring so many incredible places, it’s time to take it a bit slower in Ho Chi Minh City. This vibrant metropolis can be overwhelming, so make sure to take the time to soak in the fast-paced city life. Enjoy long night walks as the city comes alive after dark!
Here are a few interesting things to do in Ho Chi Minh City:
- Explore the Local Flower Market: It might sound a bit different, but Saigon is famous for its bustling flower market! The variety is huge, and I couldn’t resist treating myself to a beautiful bouquet.
- Visit Tan Dinh Church (Pink Church): This stunning architectural gem is must-see. It’s mostly open from 8 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM, but closed on Sundays, so plan your visit accordingly! Post that head over to Cong Caphe, a charming café nearby. They serve delicious drinks and offer great views of the church.
- Tao Dan Park: A favourite among locals, this park is perfect for enjoying a peaceful evening. You can relax and watch the world go by.
- Book Street: A charming spot for book lovers where you can browse through various titles while sipping on a drink.
- Saigon Post Office: An architectural wonder worth a visit, showcasing the French colonial style.
- You can also visit Ben Thanh Market, one of the most popular markets in Ho Chi Minh City. While it’s a vibrant place to explore and find local goods, we found that prices here were a bit higher compared to the markets in Hanoi and Hoi An.
- For nightlife, don’t miss Bui Vien Walking Street—a party hub buzzing with live music and delicious street food! It’s the perfect way to experience the city’s lively atmosphere.
- If you’re up for some adventure, consider booking day tours to the Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels through platforms like Klook.
Some budget hotels to consider in Ho Chi Minh City include: Le Blanc Saigon, Little Saigon boutique Hotel, La Galeria Hotel.
That will wrap up your Ho Chi Minh trip! Next, get ready to explore the offbeat destination of Vietnam: Mui Ne.
Day 11-13: Mui Ne
Known for its stunning beaches, unique sand dunes, and relaxed vibe, Mui Ne is a perfect getaway for those (basically us) looking to unwind and enjoy some beautiful landscapes.
Reaching Mui Ne can be both exciting and exhausting! We booked a sleeper bus to Phan Thiet, which took about 4 hours. The buses are super comfy and clean, making the journey pleasant. We highly recommend Trung Nga Travels for this trip; they are punctual and offer great service.
Pro tip: try to book directly from their office for better deals!
Once you arrive in Phan Thiet, keep in mind that Mui Ne is just a 35-minute ride away. Since Grab or Gojek doesn’t operate in this area, you’ll need to take a private taxi from the bus stop to get to Mui Ne.
Getting around in Mui Ne
- Book a Guided Tour: Many hotels offer guided tours that take you to all the key viewpoints and attractions. This is a convenient option, as the guides are familiar with the best spots to visit.
- Rent a Scooter: If you’re comfortable driving, renting a scooter is a popular way to explore Mui Ne at your own pace. Just make sure you have a valid driver’s license and wear a helmet.
- Private Taxis: You can also hire a private taxi for the day, but it can be a costlier affair since Mui Ne is a more secluded town.
Things to do in Mui Ne:
- Get up at 4 AM and head over to the White Sand Dunes for a breathtaking sunrise. Though the journey might be long, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. The White Sand Dunes are a dreamlike landscape, with soft, pillowy sand and a serene lake by the side, framed by windmills—an idyllic backdrop, especially in the morning light. Take your time to soak in the tranquil vibe, as this spot remains blissfully free from large crowds. For an added thrill, you can even enjoy a quad bike ride on the dunes, making the experience even more memorable. Visiting here is free!
- Another amazing activity to experience is walking barefoot in the Fairy Stream, which might sound odd but offers a unique adventure. This less-explored paradise is filled with mysterious limestone rock formations, creating an otherworldly landscape. The stream’s water level is shallow and gentle, making it easy to trail through barefoot in the muddy waters. There’s no entry fee, though you’ll need to pay a small fee for parking if you bring a vehicle. As a bonus, treat yourself to some of the sweetest coconut water you’ll ever taste—perfect after your refreshing walk! It opens between 8 am-5 pm.
- In the evening, make sure to watch the breathtaking sunset at the Red Sand Dunes. We stayed at Sanddunes Beach Resort and Spa, which was conveniently just a 5-minute walk from the dunes. The landscape here looks magical, with glowing red sand under the setting sun. You can also indulge in sand sliding with locals—a fun, unique experience!
- Another must-do is visiting the nearby fishing village, where you can witness the daily life of Vietnamese fishermen. For the best experience, visit early in the morning to see fresh catches of fish and seafood being brought in.
If you’re looking for vegetarian-friendly food, definitely try Elcafe Mui Ne. They serve some amazing dishes and offer a lovely outdoor seating area.
Day 14: Fly back to home
From Mui Ne, you can take a cab to Phan Thiet and then catch a sleeper bus back to Ho Chi Minh City and fly back home.
And this wraps up our amazing 2 weeks in Vietnam. To be honest, this little Southeast Asian gem surprised us in every way. I hope this itinerary helps you plan an amazing adventure and inspires you to discover the magic of Vietnam for yourself! Safe travels!
