7 Days in Vietnam Itinerary: What to See Across the Country
Are you looking for 7 days in Vietnam itinerary packed with cultural highlights, scenic landscapes, and authentic local flavours? While 7 days is not a long time for a multi-day tour across several regions in Vietnam, you can have a vivid journey with a well-crafted itinerary.
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Are 7 days enough to see Vietnam?
Vietnam is not a vast country, and you can easily visit the main attractions in its three regions on a multi-day tour. While it is recommended you spend at least 10 days to explore the heart and soul of Vietnam, it’s possible to make a 7-day journey covering the major highlights and making the most of your time. Depending on your interests, you can opt for an itinerary that focuses on a particular region or combines as many destinations across different regions as you like. However, bear in mind that 7 days isn’t a long time, so try not to overpack your itinerary with too many destinations and end up feeling rushed.
» Read more on Vietnam Travel Tips: Know Before You Go
What to see in Vietnam in 7 days? Top destinations
The itinerary for 7 days in Vietnam doesn’t have to cram in numerous destinations. It’s better to pick a few places of your interest and focus on the experiences. Below are the top destinations most loved by travellers.
1. Hanoi
Where to delve into Vietnam’s cultural heritage better than Hanoi, the capital city? Hanoi is famed for its old quarters, colonial architecture, historic monuments, and thousands of relic sites and intangible cultural heritages. With the charm of a bygone era, the streets of Hanoi are a unique carnival of sights, sounds, and scents that attract visitors to experience its timeless atmosphere. Not only for unique places of interest, Hanoi knows how to enchant visitors with authentic cuisine and lively street food scenes.
• Must-see places: Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hoa Lo Prison, Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake
• Must-try dishes: Grilled pork with rice vermicelli, beef noodle soup, noodles and tofu with shrimp sauce, egg coffee
2. Halong
Your itinerary for 7 days in Vietnam wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Halong. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for breathtaking limestone mountains emerging from emerald waters. If you want to look for something more authentic, try a kayak to visit a fishing village, seeing locals live their life and connecting to their age-old traditions, such as fishing, net weaving, and pearl processing. Some of the most worth visiting villages include Cua Van, Vung Vieng, Cong Dam, and Ba Hang.
• Must-see places: Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Cave, Stone Dog Cave
• Must-try dishes: Halong squid cakes, grilled oysters, noodle soup with mantis shrimp
3. Ninh Binh
Blessed with year-round mild weather and stunning natural landscapes, Ninh Binh is one of Vietnam’s hidden gems, and is only a short way from Hanoi. Dubbed “Halong Bay on land,” and featured in the film “Kong: Skull Island,” Ninh Binh is not only an ideal destination for nature lovers but also a place that preserves unique cultural and historical significance. The region was once the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties, and you can see many of historical relics and monuments from this time.
• Must-see places: Trang An Scenic Landscape, Tam Coc, Mua Cave, Am Tien Cave
• Must-try dishes: Goat meat, steamed glutinous rice with ant eggs, raw fish salad
» Read more on Full-Day Ninh Binh Experience
4. Da Nang
Is Da Nang worth visiting? This amazing land has long been recognised by locals as the most worth-living city in Vietnam for being clean, safe, and affordable. Despite being a young city, Da Nang is not less charming than other destinations thanks to its cultural beauty, gorgeous beaches, and dramatic mountains. The iconic Golden Bridge on Ba Na Hills is a world-renowned masterpiece that has never failed to impress with its stunning vistas.
• Must-see places: Ba Na Hills, Marble Mountains, Dragon Bridge, My Khe Beach, Linh Ung Pagoda
• Must-try dishes: Pork rice paper rolls, bloating fern-shaped cakes, noodles with fermented fish sauce
» Read more on Ba Na Hill & Golden Hands Bridge Experience
5. Hue
Hue prides itself on imperial heritage and serene natural setting that win the heart of both history buffs and nature lovers. Some visit Hue for its solemn beauty down the Perfume River, others find great pleasure enjoying the royal court music performance. No matter what experience you have a passion for, your visit to Hue will be something you miss for a long time, even after the the trip ends.
• Must-see places: Hue Historic Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, Perfume River, Thuy Xuan Village, Thanh Toan Bridge
• Must-try dishes: Hue-style beef noodles soup, clam rice, lemongrass grilled pork, crispy dumplings
6. Hoi An
There must be a reason why Hoi An is what inspires many visitors to choose to visit Vietnam. Hoi An is a quaint town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, just a half-hour drive south of Da Nang. Stroll along the ancient quarters, grab a seat at an outdoor café, watch the sunset over the town, and release the colourful lanterns on the Hoai River – there are so many relaxing activities to join in that you won’t want your day to end at this beautiful town. Pause for a second – Hoi An has more to discover than the ancient town, you can also let loose at An Bang Beach, learn to become a real farmer at Tra Que Vegetable Village, or try a thrilling ride at Cam Thanh Coconut Village.
• Must-see places: Japanese Covered Bridge, Fujian Assembly Hall, Hoi An Night Market
• Must-try dishes: Pork rice noodles, Quang-style noodles, chicken rice, ‘white rose’ savoury dumplings
7. Nha Trang
Nha Trang’s greatest magnet is its attractive coastlines, white sandy beaches, and lively tropical beach vibes. All along the beach, you can see many travellers bathe in warm sunlight, build little sandcastles, or engage in countless fun beach sports, from diving, surfing, paragliding to kite surfing. For travellers who seek a blend of natural beauty and vibrant city life, Nha Trang should be high on your wish list – golden beaches meet seaside cafes, historic museums mix with modern theme parks, and many more to be discovered.
• Must-see places: Long Son Pagoda, Dam Market, Ponagar Cham Temple, Nha Trang Mountain Church
• Must-try dishes: Sizzling pancakes, fermented pork roll, fish noodle soup, local seafood
» Read more on 10 Must – Try Foods in Nha Trang To Enjoy
8. Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is bursting at the seams with an interesting blend of the old and the new, where you can stroll past French colonial-era architecture, ancient Chinese temples – only to turn the corner and find opulent malls, trendy bars, and futuristic hotels. The city is also praised for its lively atmosphere that can fuel your party from day to night. Don’t worry if you’re not a fan of crowded parties, you can opt for a museum tour to learn about history or a street food tour to sample authentic dishes. This lovely city always has something for everyone.
• Must-see places: Independence Palace, Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, Cu Chi Tunnels, Ben Thanh Market
• Must-try dishes: Broken rice, beef noodle soup, fresh spring rolls, Vietnamese baguette
» Read more on Is Ho Chi Minh City Safe? Safety Tips for Every Traveller
9. Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta, a biological treasure trove or a rice bowl of Vietnam, is famed for distinct biodiversity and customs of several regions. Even a short visit to the Mekong Delta can add an interesting touch to your 7 days in Vietnam itinerary. If it’s not the abundant rivers, canals, and streams that take you by surprise, then you will be amazed by its ‘delicious secret’ – a plethora of tropical fruits, guava, rambutan, durian, mango, jackfruit, to name but a few.
• Must-see places: Cai Rang Floating Market, Tra Su Cajuput Forest, Vinh Trang Pagoda, Binh Thuy Ancient House, the Four Sacred Islets
• Must-try dishes: Fried ‘elephant ear’ fish, sweet and sour tamarind soup, pop rice
10. Phu Quoc
Beach lovers find their bliss in the gentle waves and golden sunsets over the beautiful island of Phu Quoc. Geographically part of the Mekong Delta, but Phu Quoc sets itself apart with a blend of island charm and laid-back atmosphere. Perfect for adventure seekers to engage in a variety of water sports, Phu Quoc offers an exciting playground of activities both above and below the water. Not only the beach but also the vivid life, history, and culture turn Phu Quoc into a priceless gem on the Vietnam travel map.
• Must-see places: VinWonders Phu Quoc, Bai Sao Beach, Long Beach, Phu Quoc Prison, Phu Quoc Night Market, Rach Vem Village
• Must-try dishes: Stirring rice noodles, herring salad, crab thick noodle soup
» Read more on Top Attractions in Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Vietnam travel itinerary 1 week from North to South
If you have constraints of time but still want to visit many destinations, it’s possible to make a 7-day tour from North to South. Take a look at our suggested itinerary that offers a quick glimpse into Vietnam’s core attractions.
√ Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi
Upon arrival in Hanoi, head to the Old Quarter. You will be immersed in the sights, sounds, and rich history of this iconic neighbourhood. Just a short walk away, visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple – the iconic heart of Hanoi. For those looking to explore the city after dark, Ta Hien Street offers a lively and fun experience. Overnight in Hanoi.
√ Day 2: Hanoi – Halong Bay (2.5-hour drive)
In the morning, depart early for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay. Get ready to discover amazing caves, pristine beaches, picturesque floating villages, and unusual rock formations emerging from tranquil emerald water. Return to Hanoi for an overnight stay.
√ Day 3: Hanoi – Hue (1.15-hour flight)
In Hue, you can visit the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda. Continue your journey to the bustling market of Dong Ba. Savour local breakfast – the famous Bún bò Huế. Overnight in Hue.
√ Day 4: Hue – Danang (2.5-hour drive)
From Hue, set off on a road trip to Danang. Explore the city tour to see the Dragon Bridge, the Museum of Cham Sculpture, and Han Market. If you have a soft spot for the world-famous Golden Bridge, consider planning for a visit to Ba Na Hills (full-day or half-day tour). Overnight in Danang.
As you are in Danang, it’s roughly 45 minutes to get to Hoi An Ancient Town. You can opt for a half-day tour to Hoi An and then travel back to Danang for an overnight stay.
√ Day 5: Danang – Ho Chi Minh City (1.5-hour flight)
From Danang Airport, take your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Visit Ho Chi Minh City’s highlights, including Independence Palace, Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market. Spend some time delving into Saigon Chinatown, the largest Chinatown in the world by area. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
√ Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta (2-hour drive)
In the early morning, leave for the Mekong Delta, cruise along the mighty Mekong River, where you can visit the Four Sacred Islands and learn about the local life revolving around the waterways. Enjoy a peaceful ride on a traditional hand-rowed sampan, and head to the local workshops producing various specialties, such as coconut candies, puffed rice, rice paper, etc. Return to Ho Chi Minh City for an overnight stay.
√ Day 7: Depart from Ho Chi Minh City
The last day of your 7 days in Vietnam itinerary is to prepare for the departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you can explore a few more places of interest or do some light shopping.
This is a typical itinerary from North to South Vietnam, covering major destinations of the country. However, bear in mind that this itinerary may feel a bit rushed for some travellers, particularly those travel with kids and rs. If you look for a more relaxing journey, consider focusing on a specific region for a deeper and more immersive experience. Take a look at the following options:
• 7-Day Tour of Northern Vietnam
• 7-Day Tour of Saigon and Hanoi
• 6-Day Best of South Vietnam Tour
• 6-Day Tour of Central Highlands and Southern Coast
Tips for 7 days in Vietnam itinerary
To make your 7 days in Vietnam worth it, plan a well-balanced itinerary with a careful packing list and consider the best time to travel. Here are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure a worry-free journey.
1. Packing for 7 days in Vietnam
7 days is not a long duration for visiting Vietnam; however, you should pack clothing suitable for a variety of activities and weather conditions. As you are going to visit a tropical country, be prepared for hot and humid weather, along with sudden rainfalls. Just like any other trip, your packing list should include all essentials and a few extras for comfort.
√ Essentials:
• Passport and visa (if required). Check the latest Vietnam visa requirements to see if you need a visa to enter Vietnam.
• Flight tickets
• Travel insurance
• Credit cards
• Medication
• Compact suitcase and backpack
√ Clothes:
• Lightweight tops
• Loose-fitting trousers
• Comfortable footwear
√ Accessories:
• Camera
• Other electronics and chargers
• Toiletries, including high SPF sunscreen
√ Extras:
• Eye mask, neck pillow, noise-cancelling headphones
• Handheld fan
• Extension cable
2. Best time to travel
It’s important to be aware that the weather can vary widely as you travel around Vietnam, and activities are strongly affected by the seasons. As a general guide, you should avoid travelling during the rainy season (usually from May to October). For 7 days in Vietnam itinerary from North to South, the period between February to early March is a good bet. For budget-conscious travellers, May and September offer lower travel demand and better deals. The least favoured period to visit Vietnam is June to October due to heavy rain and occasional typhoons in many regions.
3. Transportation
As you only have 7 days for the entire journey, make the most of your time by combining air travel and road trips. There are several airlines for domestic flights, such as Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, Pacific Airlines, Vietravel Airlines, and Vietjet Air. Vietjet Air typically offers the lowest prices but be aware that additional fees may apply for baggage and seat selection.
4. Safety tips
Vietnam is a safe country, and you’re unlikely to find any difficulties travelling to big cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. However, it’s not unnecessary to take basic precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.
Taxi scams in Vietnam often involve tampered metres, inflated fares, currency confusion, or misleading fixed rates. You should go with a trusted brand or choose a reputable ride-hailing app like Grab for more transparent pricing.
For solo and female travellers, it is recommended to find a group of travellers from your hotel to go out with at night rather than go alone. For LGBT travellers, there are several LGBT-friendly bars, pubs, saunas, and hotels. While a thriving gay scene has developed in Vietnam in the past few years, everyone must act modestly to avoid discrimination, attacks or harassment.
» Read more on Is Ho Chi Minh City Safe? Safety Tips for Every Traveller
To fully enjoy your 7 days in Vietnam itinerary, start planning from what you want to experience and the level of comfort, adventure, or cultural immersion you’re seeking. If you are thrill seekers, your 7 days can be filled with a variety of destinations. If you travel with kids or have mobility issues, it’s better to opt for an itinerary focusing on a specific region. Contact us for a fully customisable itinerary for 7 days in Vietnam tailored to your interests, travel style, and pace.