7-Day Classic Vietnam: Hanoi → Ha Long → Hội An → Saigon
Trip Highlights
- Cruise Ha Long Bay at sunrise
- Wander the ancient lantern-lit streets of Hoi An
- Motorbike through Hanoi Old Quarter
- Cooking class with a local family in Hoi An
- War history & street food in Ho Chi Minh City
- Temple of Literature and Egg Coffee in Hanoi
- Cu Chi Tunnels half-day excursion
Overview
Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi — Day 1 begins here; the Ngoc Son Temple island and Turtle Tower are best seen early morning before crowds arrive
This 7-day itinerary covers the essential Vietnam experience — Hanoi's ancient streets,
the emerald beauty of Ha Long Bay, the lantern-lit magic of Hội An, and Saigon's electric energy.
Day-by-Day
The Reunification Express — overnight trains between Hanoi, Hue, and Da Nang are a comfortable and scenic alternative to flying
Day 1 — Hanoi: Arrive, settle in, explore the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake at night.
Day 2 — Hanoi: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, Vietnamese Museum of Ethnology.
Bến Thành Market, Ho Chi Minh City — a landmark rather than a bargain destination; the surrounding streets have better prices and atmosphere
Day 3 — Ha Long Bay: Transfer to the bay, board an overnight cruise, kayak through caves.
Day 4 — Hội An: Morning on Ha Long Bay, fly to Da Nang, transfer to Hội An.
Hội An Old Town — the ochre-yellow facades and lantern-lit streets are at their most atmospheric after 6pm when day-trippers leave
Day 5 — Hội An: Ancient Town, cooking class, An Bang Beach, Lantern Festival (if full moon).
Day 6 — Ho Chi Minh City: Fly south, War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, rooftop bar.
Huế Citadel — the 19th-century imperial fortifications enclose a walled city of palaces, temples, and gardens worth a full afternoon
Day 7 — Depart: Optional Cu Chi Tunnels morning trip before your flight.
Budget Guide
| Type | Estimated Total |
|---|---|
| Budget backpacker | $400–600 |
| Mid-range comfort | $900–1,400 |
| Luxury experience | $2,500+ |
What's Included
- All accommodation (7 nights)
- Ha Long Bay overnight cruise
- Airport transfer on arrival in Hanoi
- Local guide throughout
- Daily breakfast
- Hoi An cooking class
- Cu Chi Tunnels entrance & guide
- All internal transport (train, flight, bus)
Not Included
- International flights
- Vietnam visa fees
- Travel insurance (required)
- Lunches and dinners (unless noted)
- Personal expenses & tips
- Optional activities
We're Working on It!
Guided tours for this itinerary are coming soon. In the meantime, feel free to use this as your free planning guide to explore Vietnam at your own pace.
Drop us a message and we'll let you know as soon as bookings open — we'd love to help you plan your trip!