Vietnam 2-Week Itinerary: Perfect First Trip (North to South, 2026)

Vietnam is LONG. Like, really long. I tried to see everything in 2 weeks—burned out by day 10. Here's the route that actually works.

The best 2-week Vietnam itinerary: North to South: Hanoi (3-4 days) → Ha Long Bay (2 days) → Hoi An (3-4 days) → HCMC (2-3 days) = realistic, achievable, and hits major highlights without killing you.

Distance reality: Vietnam is 1,650km (1,025 miles) North to South. That's like NYC to Miami. You can't see everything in two weeks.

After reading, you'll have a complete day-by-day plan that acknowledges Vietnam's challenges while inspiring confidence.

VIETNAM 2-WEEK ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

Days 1-4: Hanoi

• Old Quarter chaos & street food
• Day trip to Ninh Binh
• Bia Hoi Corner social scene
• Budget: $147-157

Days 5-6: Ha Long Bay

• 2D/1N overnight cruise (UNESCO)
• Kayaking through karsts
• Sunset on deck with travelers
• Budget: $80-120 cruise

Day 7: Travel Day

• Fly Hanoi → Da Nang → Hoi An
• Budget: $80-129

Days 8-11: Hoi An

• Ancient Town lanterns (magical!)
• Cooking class (must-do!)
• An Bang Beach relaxation
• Custom-tailored clothes
• Budget: $212-267

Day 12: Travel Day

• Fly Hoi An/Da Nang → HCMC
• Budget: $80-125

Days 13-15: Ho Chi Minh City

• War Remnants Museum (heavy but important)
• Cu Chi Tunnels day trip
• Bui Vien Street social scene
• Budget: $122-152

TOTAL: $721-950 (14 days)

Add: Flights ($700-1,500), insurance ($42), and visa ($25).

GRAND TOTAL: $1,488-2,517

✓ North ✓ Central ✓ South ✓ Culture ✓ History ✓ Beach ✓ Solo female friendly ✓ Proven route

Vietnam 2-Week Itinerary Overview

THE ROUTE (North to South):

• Days 1-4: Hanoi (orientation, Old Quarter, street food, day trips)
• Days 5-6: Ha Long Bay (overnight cruise—non-negotiable!)
• Day 7: Travel Day (Hanoi → Hoi An via flight)
• Days 8-11: Hoi An (Ancient Town, beaches, cooking, tailors, slow pace)
• Day 12: Travel Day (Hoi An → HCMC via flight)
• Days 13-15: Ho Chi Minh City (War history, Cu Chi Tunnels, street food, exit)
• Day 16: Departure

WHY THIS ROUTE WORKS:

✅ Covers Vietnam's "big 3 regions": North (Hanoi), Central (Hoi An), South (HCMC)

✅ Logical North-to-South flow (climate gets warmer as you go)

✅ Proper pacing (3-4 days per major city = not rushed)

✅ Includes Ha Long Bay (UNESCO, must-see, worth the detour)

✅ Balances culture + history + beach + city

✅ Realistic transport times (flights between major gaps)

✅ Solo-female-friendly (all destinations safe, social hostels)

✅ Budget-friendly ($40-60/day = $560-840 for 2 weeks)

ALTERNATIVE ROUTES:

South to North (Reverse):

• HCMC → Hoi An → Ha Long Bay → Hanoi
• Pros: Weather slightly better (dry season South starts earlier)
• Cons: Anticlimactic (Hanoi less exciting after Hoi An's beauty)
• Recommendation: North-to-South better for first-timers

Central Vietnam Focus (Skip HCMC):

• Hanoi (3) → Ha Long Bay (2) → Hue (2) → Hoi An (5) → Da Nang beaches (3)
• Pros: More time in beautiful Central Vietnam, less rushing
• Cons: Miss HCMC's history, less diverse experience
• Recommendation: Good if you want beach time and relaxation

Northern Focus (Skip South entirely):

• Hanoi (4) → Sapa (3) → Ninh Binh (2) → Ha Long Bay (2) → Cat Ba Island (3)
• Pros: Deeper North experience, mountains and rice terraces
• Cons: Miss Hoi An (big mistake!), miss Vietnamese diversity
• Recommendation: Only if you've done Central/South before

WHAT YOU WON'T SEE (in 2 weeks):

❌ Sapa (Northern mountains, rice terraces - add 3-4 days)

❌ Ninh Binh (Ha Long Bay on land - add 2 days)

❌ Phong Nha (caves - add 2-3 days)

❌ Hue (Imperial City - add 2 days)

❌ Dalat (mountain town - add 2-3 days)

`❌ Mekong Delta (add 2 days from HCMC)

❌ Phu Quoc (island - add 3-5 days)

This is a "highlights" trip. You WILL want to return to Vietnam.

WHAT YOU'LL EXPERIENCE:

• 🏛️ Ancient history (Imperial Citadel, War Museums, Ancient Town)
• 🍜 Incredible food (Pho, Banh Mi, Cao Lau, street food everywhere)
• 🚢 Ha Long Bay overnight cruise (UNESCO World Heritage)
• 🏮 Hoi An lanterns at night (magical!)
• 🏖️ Central Vietnam beaches (An Bang Beach)
• 🛵 Motorbike culture (crazy traffic, exhilarating!)
• 🤝 Solo traveler community (hostels, tours, spontaneous friendships)
• 💰 Budget travel ($40-60/day = $560-840 total)

CRITICAL VIETNAM DIFFERENCES FROM THAILAND:

⚠️ Language barrier: English is less common (be patient; use Google Translate).

⚠️ Transport slower: Distances longer, traffic heavier (adjust expectations)

⚠️ Less tourist infrastructure: Booking harder, and there are fewer English signs (more authentic!)

⚠️ Weather matters MORE: Central Vietnam rain Nov-Jan impacts plans significantly

⚠️ More challenging: Vietnam requires more effort than Thailand (but MORE rewarding!)

Don't expect Thailand-level ease. Vietnam is less polished but more authentic.

BUDGET OVERVIEW:

• Accommodation: $10-15/night × 14 = $140-210
• Food: $10-15/day × 14 = $140-210
• Transport: $150-250 (internal flights + trains + local)
• Activities: $100-200 (Ha Long Bay cruise $80-120 biggest expense)
• Other: $50-80 (SIM, laundry, misc.)
• TOTAL: $580-950 for 14 days
• Average: $41-68/day

NOT included:

• International flight to/from Vietnam
• Travel insurance (SafetyWing $42/month)
• Visa (e-visa $25 for most nationalities)

Vietnam is SLIGHTLY more expensive than Thailand but still very affordable!

BOOKING TIMELINE:

2 months before:

□ Book international flight ($600-1,400 to Hanoi)

□ Get travel insurance (SafetyWing $42/month)

□ Apply for e-visa online ($25, 3-5 days processing)

1 month before:

□ Book first 2 nights Hanoi hostel (Hostelworld)

□ Pre-book Ha Long Bay 2D/1N cruise (fills up!)

□ Book internal flights if flying (Vietnam Airlines, VietJet)

2 weeks before:

□ Book Hoi An hostel (first 2-3 nights) → [Hostelworld]

□ Book cooking class in Hoi An

□ Download offline maps (Google Maps)

1 week before:

□ Book HCMC hostel (first 2 nights) → [Hostelworld]

□ Confirm all bookings

□ Pack (lightweight, rain gear!)

Upon arrival in Hanoi:

□ Get SIM card (Viettel/Mobifone, $8 for 30 days)

□ Withdraw cash (2,000,000-3,000,000 VND = $80-120)

□ Download Grab app

□ Take Grab to hostel ($8-12 from airport)

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

DAYS 1-4: HANOI (The Chaotic Introduction)

DAY 1: ARRIVAL + ACCLIMATIZATION

Morning/Afternoon:

• Arrive Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport)
• Get SIM card at airport (Viettel booth, 200,000 VND = $8)
• Withdraw cash (ATM 2,000,000 VND = $80)
• Take Grab to hostel ($8-12, 45-60 min)

Recommended Hostel:

• Hanoi Backpackers Hostel ($8-12/night, social, bar)
• Nexy Hostel ($10-14/night, rooftop, female dorms)
• Book on Hostelworld

Late Afternoon:

• Check in, shower, REST (Vietnam traffic is intense)
• Walk around Old Quarter neighborhood
• Get oriented (busy, chaotic, motorbikes everywhere - this is Vietnam!)

Evening:

• Hoan Kiem Lake walk (15-min from Old Quarter)
  • Peaceful lake in city center
  • Free, beautiful at sunset
  • Watch locals exercising
• Bia Hoi Corner (Ta Hien Street)
  • Local beer: 5,000 VND = $0.20 per glass!
  • Sit on tiny plastic stools
  • Meet other travelers (THE social spot)
  • Perfect for finding travel companions

Dinner:

• Street food nearby (Pho, Bun Cha) 40,000-60,000 VND ($1.60-$2.40)
• Early bed (jet lag + Hanoi chaos is exhausting)

Day 1 Budget: $38

My Day 1 Reality: "Arrived exhausted. Hanoi traffic completely overwhelmed me. Upon arriving at the hostel, I took a two-hour nap. Forced myself to Bia Hoi Corner at 7pm. Best decision—met 4 solo travelers; we became the Vietnam travel crew for next week."

DAY 2: OLD QUARTER + STREET FOOD TOUR

Morning (8am-12pm):

• Old Quarter Walking Tour (DIY or join free walking tour)
  • 36 Streets (each street = one trade historically)
  • Chaotic, colorful, authentic Vietnamese life
  • Time: 2-3 hours
• Hoan Kiem Lake loop again (different in daylight)
  • Ngoc Son Temple on island (30,000 VND = $1.20)
  • Red Bridge photogenic

Lunch:

• Pho Gia Truyen (famous pho, 49 Bat Dan St)
  • 60,000 VND = $2.40
  • THE best pho in Hanoi
  • Go before 1pm (sells out!)

Afternoon (1pm-5pm):

• Temple of Literature (Van Mieu)
  • Entry: 30,000 VND ($1.20)
  • Vietnam's first university was established in 1070 AD.
  • Peaceful escape from chaos
  • Time: 1.5 hours
• Optional: Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton)
  • Entry: 30,000 VND
  • Vietnam War history
  • Heavy but important

Rest at hostel (2-3 hours - Vietnam pace requires breaks!)

Evening (6pm-10pm):

• Street Food Tour (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!)
  • Book: Hanoi Street Food Tour ($25-35)
  • Or DIY: Walk Old Quarter, eat where locals eat
  • Must-try: Bun Cha, Banh Mi, Egg Coffee
  • Time: 3-4 hours

Alternative Evening:

• Water Puppet Show (Thang Long Theater)
  • Traditional Vietnamese art
  • Tickets: 100,000-200,000 VND
  • 7pm or 8pm shows

Day 2 Budget: $44.50

DAY 3: DAY TRIP OPTIONS

OPTION A: Ninh Binh Day Trip (Recommended!)

• Book: Day tour via hostel or GetYourGuide ($30-45)
• Includes: Transport + boat ride + bike + lunch + guide
• Highlights:
  • Tam Coc boat ride (2 hours through rice paddies and limestone karsts)
  • "Ha Long Bay on land"
  • Bich Dong Pagoda (climb for views)
  • Bike through villages
• Time: 8am-6pm full day
• Why it's worth it: Most beautiful scenery near Hanoi, break from city chaos

OPTION B: Stay in Hanoi (Chill Day)

• Sleep in (you need rest!)
• Train Street (Instagram famous—trains pass between buildings)
  • Buy coffee at a cafe (40,000 VND = $1.60).
  • Check train schedule online
  • Time: 1 hour
• Lunch at Bun Cha Dac Kim (famous Obama Bun Cha)
• Afternoon: Shopping, cafes, wandering
  • Dong Xuan Market (biggest market)
  • Coffee at Giang Cafe (famous egg coffee)

Day 3 Budget: $45-55

My Day 3 Choice: "Did Ninh Binh tour. STUNNING. After the chaos in Hanoi, I needed a break in nature. Boat ride through karsts = magical. During the tour, I met an Australian girl with whom I traveled to Ha Long Bay.

DAY 4: HANOI MUSEUMS + PACK FOR HA LONG BAY

Morning (9am-12pm):

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex
  • Mausoleum: Free, open 8-11am Tue-Thu & Sat-Sun (closed Mon/Fri)
  • See Ho Chi Minh's preserved body
  • Dress code: Covered shoulders/knees
  • Time: 1 hour
• One Pillar Pagoda (next door, free, 10 minutes)
• Ho Chi Minh Museum (30,000 VND, 1 hour)

Lunch:

• Bun Bo Nam Bo (beef noodle salad) 67 Hang Dieu St

Afternoon (1pm-5pm):

• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (Optional)
  • Entry: 40,000 VND ($1.60)
  • 20 min taxi (80,000 VND = $3.20)
  • 54 ethnic groups of Vietnam
  • Interesting if you love culture, skippable if tight on time
• OR Chill afternoon:
  • Enjoy a cup of coffee at The Note Coffee, where sticky notes adorn the walls.
  • Last-minute shopping
  • Pack for Ha Long Bay (overnight bag only; leave big backpack at hostel)

Evening:

• Farewell Hanoi dinner with hostel friends
• Early bed (Ha Long Bay pickup 8am tomorrow!)
• CRITICAL: Pack overnight bag only
  • Swimsuit, change of clothes, toiletries, camera, sunscreen
  • Leave big backpack at hostel (they store for free)

Day 4 Budget: $20

HANOI TOTAL (Days 1-4): $147.50-157.50 = $37-39/day

Highlights: Street food, Old Quarter chaos, Ninh Binh beauty, Bia Hoi Corner

Honest take: Hanoi is INTENSE. Exhausting but exhilarating. Give yourself time.

DAYS 5-6: HA LONG BAY (The UNESCO Highlight)

DAY 5: HA LONG BAY CRUISE DAY 1

Morning (7:30am-12pm):

• Pickup from hostel (7:30-8:30am)
• The bus ride to Ha Long Bay harbor takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours.
  • Includes bathroom stop halfway
  • Boring drive, nap or chat

Midday (12pm-1pm):

• Arrive at the harbor and board the boat.
• Welcome drink, check-in to cabin
• Cabin types:
  • Budget: Shared cabin 4-6 beds ($80-100 per person for 2D/1N)
  • Comfort: Private cabin double bed ($120-180 per person)
  • Recommendation: Budget shared cabin fine—you'll meet people!

Afternoon (1pm-6pm):

• Lunch on boat (seafood feast included)
• Cruise through karsts
  • Limestone islands rising from emerald water
  • Absolutely stunning
  • CRITICAL: Do 2D/1N cruise MINIMUM
  • Day cruise = rushed, not worth it
• Stop 1: Cave visit (Sung Sot/Surprising Cave)
  • Entry included
  • Massive cave, impressive
  • 1 hour
• Stop 2: Kayaking (or bamboo boat)
  • Paddle through karsts
  • Beautiful, peaceful
  • 1 hour

Evening (6pm-10pm):

• Sunset on deck (bring beer!)
• Dinner on boat (included)
• Optional activities:
  • Squid fishing from boat
  • Cooking class on deck
  • Drinking with other travelers (this is the social time!)
• Sleep on boat (rocking, peaceful)

Day 5 included in Ha Long Bay cruise package

My Day 5 Reality: "Morning bus boring but manageable. Boat boarding = instant excitement. Cabins are basic but fine. The highlight of the trip was kayaking, where we watched the sunset from the top deck while enjoying beers and making new friends. This experience was truly worth every penny.

DAY 6: HA LONG BAY CRUISE DAY 2 + RETURN HANOI

Morning (6am-10am):

• Wake up to sunrise over karsts! (Set the alarm! It's worth it!)
• Tai Chi class on deck (optional, surprisingly enjoyable)
• Breakfast on boat (included)
• Morning activity:
  • Visit floating village OR
  • More kayaking OR
  • Swimming stop (if weather warm)

Late Morning (10am-12pm):

• Brunch on boat
• Pack up the cabin.
• Cruise back to harbor slowly

Afternoon (12pm-5pm):

• Disembark ~12pm-1pm
• Bus back to Hanoi (3.5-4 hours)
• Arrive Hanoi ~5-6pm

Evening:

• Back to the same hostel (you left a big bag there).
• Shower, unpack, organize
• CRITICAL: Prepare for tomorrow's travel to Hoi An
  • OPTION A: Book flight Hanoi → Da Nang (1.5 hours, $40-80)
  • OPTION B: Overnight train Hanoi → Hue (14 hours), then bus Hue → Hoi An (3 hours)

MY RECOMMENDATION:

• FLY Hanoi → Da Nang (then taxi to Hoi An 45 min)
• Why: Save time (flights $40-80); overnight train/bus LONG and uncomfortable
• Train romantic in theory, exhausting in reality
• Vietnam distances = deceptive on map

Day 6 Budget: $48-88

HA LONG BAY TOTAL: $80-120 (2D/1N all-inclusive) Best money spent in Vietnam

BOOKING HA LONG BAY:

• Book your tour 1-2 weeks in advance, as it fills up quickly during the peak season from November to April.
• Book through GetYourGuide, Hostel, or Klook
• Recommended companies: Indochina Junk, Paloma Cruise, Bai Tho Junk
• AVOID: Cheapest cruises (sketchy boats, bad food)
• Sweet spot: $80-100 for decent cruise

HA LONG BAY: 2D/1N CRUISE VS DAY CRUISE

I tested both. Here's the truth:

Day Cruise (Tried Trip 1):

• Cost: $40-60
• Schedule: 8am pickup, 12pm arrival, 4.5 hours on water, 9pm return exhausted
• Experience:

❌ Rushed constantly

❌ Cave visit = run-through, no time

❌ Kayaking = 30 min only

❌ NO sunset (leave at 5pm)

❌ NO overnight magic

❌ Felt like tourist cattle

Rating: 4/10 "Checked box, not experiencing."

2D/1N Cruise (Tried Trip 2):

• Cost: $80-120
• Schedule: Full-day cruise, sleep on boat, sunrise next morning
• Experience:

✅ RELAXED pace

✅ Sunset and sunrise on water (STUNNING)

✅ Bonded with travelers

✅ Sleeping on water (peaceful)

✅ Actually ENJOYED activities

Rating: 10/10 "Memory forever. Top 5 travel experiences."

The Difference: $40 extra = COMPLETELY different experience

EVERY traveler who did 2D/1N: "BEST decision of Vietnam trip!" EVERY traveler who did a day cruise: "Wish I'd done it overnight..."

How to Book:

• When: 1-2 weeks before
• Where: GetYourGuide (easy, reliable)
• Which company: Indochina Junk, Paloma Cruise, Bai Tho Junk
• Sweet spot: $80-100 for decent mid-range cruise

What's included:

• Transport Hanoi-Ha Long Bay-Hanoi
• The package includes all meals, including lunch, dinner, breakfast, and brunch.
• Kayaking/activities
• Cave entry fees
• English-speaking guide

NOT included:

❌ Drinks (bring beer or buy onboard)

❌ Tips for crew (50,000-100,000 VND = $2-4 suggested)

My Verdict: If you're even SLIGHTLY considering Ha Long Bay, DO THE 2D/1N CRUISE. Not the day trip. This is the ONE splurge worth it in Vietnam. You'll thank me at sunrise. ☀️ 🚢

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DAY 7: TRAVEL DAY (HANOI → HOI AN)

FLIGHT OPTION (Recommended):

• Morning: Take Grab to Noi Bai Airport ($8-12)
• Flight: Hanoi → Da Nang (1.5 hours, $40-80)
  • Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, Bamboo Airways
  • Book: Skyscanner, direct websites
• Arrive Da Nang Airport
• Take Grab to Hoi An Ancient Town (45 min, 250,000-300,000 VND = $10-12)
• Total travel time: 4-5 hours door-to-door

Afternoon:

• Check into Hoi An hostel
  • Hoi An Chillout Hostel ($10-14/night, social, pool)
  • Tribee Bana Hostel ($8-12/night, near Ancient Town)
  • Book on Hostelworld
• Rest, shower, explore immediate area

Evening:

• First Hoi An evening: Ancient Town at night (MAGICAL!)
  • Lanterns light up at sunset
  • Most beautiful town in Vietnam
  • Walk, wander, get lost
  • Free (entry ticket needed for museums inside, but wandering free)
• Dinner at local restaurant (Cao Lau specialty—only found in Hoi An!)

Day 7 Budget: $80-129

OVERNIGHT TRAIN OPTION (If you insist):

• Hanoi → Hue: Overnight train (14 hours, $30-50 sleeper berth)
• Hue → Hoi An: Bus (3 hours, 150,000 VND = $6)
• Pros: See countryside, romantic, save accommodation
• Cons: Uncomfortable sleep, lose full day, arrive exhausted
• My take: Trains are intriguing once, but FLIGHTS are better for tight schedules.

DAYS 8-11: HOI AN (The Beautiful Slow Down)

DAY 8: ANCIENT TOWN + TAILORS

Morning (8am-12pm):

• Hoi An Ancient Town walking tour
  • Entry ticket: 120,000 VND ($5) covers 5 sites
  • Japanese Covered Bridge (iconic)
  • Assembly Halls (Chinese architecture)
  • Old merchant houses
  • Museums
  • Time: 3-4 hours

Lunch:

• Banh Mi Phuong (Anthony Bourdain famous)
  • 25,000 VND = $1
  • WORTH THE HYPE

Afternoon (1pm-6pm):

• Custom clothes made! (Hoi An = tailor capital)
  • Choose fabric, get measured, return tomorrow for fitting
  • Dress: $30-80 depending on fabric
  • Suit: $80-150
  • Recommended tailors:
    • Yaly Couture (higher end)
    • A Dong Silk (mid-range)
• IMPORTANT: Need 24-48 hours (multiple fittings)
• Start early in the trip!
• Rest at the hostel during the intense midday heat in Vietnam.

Evening (6pm-10pm):

• Rent bicycle (20,000 VND/day = $0.80 from the hostel).
• Bike around Ancient Town as lanterns light up
• BEST PHOTO TIME: 7-8pm when lanterns glow
• Dinner at riverside restaurant (splurge! 200,000 VND = $8)

Day 8 Budget: $48

My Day 8 Reality: "Got to Ancient Town at 9am, beautiful but HOT. I spent two hours exploring the museums before succumbing to heat exhaustion. Got banh mi and went to the tailor (had dress made $50, loved it!). Napped 2-3pm. Evening bike ride through Ancient Town = MAGIC. This is why everyone loves Hoi An."

DAY 9: COOKING CLASS + BEACH

Morning-Afternoon (8am-2pm):

• Cooking Class (MUST DO!)
  • Red Bridge Cooking School or Morning Glory ($30-40)
  • Book via GetYourGuide
  • Includes: Market visit, boat ride, 4-5 dish cooking, lunch
  • Learn: Fresh spring rolls, pho, Vietnamese dishes
  • Time: 6 hours (8am-2pm typical)
  • This is a HIGHLIGHT - don't skip!

Afternoon (3pm-7pm):

• An Bang Beach (best beach near Hoi An)
  • Bike from Ancient Town (20-30 min, flat, easy ride)
  • Or Grab (50,000 VND = $2)
  • Beautiful, less touristy than Cua Dai Beach
  • Beach clubs with loungers (free if you buy drink)
  • Soul Kitchen beach club (good vibe)
  • Swim, relax, read, nap

Evening:

• Bike/Grab back to hostel
• Shower
• Dinner in Ancient Town
• Early bed

Day 9 Budget: $56

DAY 10: MY SON'S SANCTUARY OR BEACH DAY

OPTION A: My Son Sanctuary Day Trip

• Book: Half-day tour ($20-30) → [GetYourGuide LINK]
• What: Ancient Hindu temple ruins (UNESCO)
• Similar to: Mini Angkor Wat
• Time: 8am-1pm (morning best, less hot)
• Worth it? If you love history/temples, yes. If you're templed out, skip.

OPTION B: Full Beach Day (My choice!)

• Bike to An Bang Beach again
• Beach club lounging all day
• Read, swim, relax, nap
• This is Hoi An's gift: PERMISSION TO DO NOTHING
• Budget: $15

OPTION C: Tailor Fittings + Chill

• Pick up clothes from tailor (final fitting)
• Bike around the countryside (rice paddies are beautiful).
• Coffee shops in Hoi An are known for having the best coffee in Vietnam.

Evening:

• Release the lantern on the river (traditional or romantic).
  • Buy a lantern for 20,000 VND ($0.80)
  • Make a wish; release it in the river.
  • Touristy but actually lovely

Day 10 Budget: $28-38

DAY 11: LAST HOI AN DAY + EVENING FLIGHT TO HCMC

Morning-Afternoon (9am-4pm):

• Sleep in (finally!)
• Last Ancient Town wander
• Finish shopping (souvenirs, coffee, silk)
• Lunch: Last banh mi (get 2, you'll miss it!)
• Pick up tailored clothes (pay remainder)
• Pack bags
• Checkout hostel

Afternoon/Evening:

• Flight Hoi An/Da Nang → HCMC (1.5 hours, $40-80)
  • Take Grab to Da Nang Airport (45 min, $10-12)
  • Flight around 5-7pm
  • Arrive HCMC 8-10pm
• Take Grab to HCMC hostel ($8-12 from Tan Son Nhat Airport)
  • Book: District 1 near Bui Vien (backpacker area)
  • Saigon Backpackers Hostel ($8-12/night) → [Hostelworld LINK]
• Light dinner near hostel
• Early bed

Day 11 Budget: $80-125

HOI AN TOTAL (Days 8-11): $212-267 = $53-67/day

Highlights: Ancient Town lanterns, cooking class, beach time, tailored clothes Honest take: Hoi Hanoi is Vietnam's most beautiful city. Many travelers extend stays here. You'll understand why.

WHY EVERYONE EXTENDS THEIR HOI AN STAY

What I Planned: Hoi An: 2 days

What Actually Happened: Stayed 5 days. Considered staying 2 weeks.

Here's why Hoi An is a solo traveler trap (the best kind):

Day 1: "Okay, Ancient Town is lovely. Lanterns are attractive. I'll see it all tomorrow and then move on."

Day 2: "Wait, there are BEACHES here? And cooking classes? And tailors? Maybe I'll stay one extra day."

Day 3: "Got a custom dress made for $50. It's amazing. I am scheduled to return for the final fitting. Another day."

Day 4: "The staff at the hostel are very friendly. We're going to the beach together. Can't leave now. Another day."

Day 5: "Why would I EVER leave? This is perfect. Life is happening elsewhere, but who cares?"

What Makes Hoi An Addictive:

1. Beauty Without Effort

• Just WALK and everything is photogenic
• No planning needed
• Ancient Town = open-air museum you live in

2. Perfect Size

• Not overwhelming like Hanoi
• Not isolated like small towns
• Can bike everywhere in 15 min

3. Permission to Do NOTHING

• Beach days = productive
• Coffee shop all morning = valid activity
• Reading by the river is totally acceptable

4. Easy Friendships

• The hostels foster a highly social atmosphere with a pool and common areas.
• Everyone is eager to extend their stay.
• Cooking classes = instant friends
• Beach clubs are natural meetup spots

5. Actual Rest

• After Hanoi chaos and travel exhaustion
• Hoi An = permission to breathe
• Vietnam finally feels EASY

6. Value for Money

• Hostels: $10-14/night (nice ones!)
• Food: $2-5/meal
• Beach: Free
• Bike: $1/day
• Custom clothes: $30-80 (AND they're nice!)

Signs You Should Extend:

• "Just one more sunset bike ride..."
• "My tailor needs two more days anyway..."
• "The hostel staff are organizing a beach trip for tomorrow..."
• "I haven't finished my book yet..."
• "The next place will be stressful; I need a buffer..."

Comparison:

• Hanoi: Exciting, exhausting, chaotic = 3-4 days perfect
• HCMC: Interesting, modern, transit hub = 2-3 days enough
• Hoi An: Beautiful, relaxing, addictive = Could stay forever

My Advice:

• Minimum: 3 days (to do activities)
• Ideal: 4-5 days (to actually relax)
• Extended: 1 week (if you're not in rush)

In your 2-week Vietnam itinerary: Cut from HCMC or Hanoi if needed. Hoi An > everything else. This is the hill I'll die on. 🏮

DAYS 13-15: HO CHI MINH CITY / SAIGON (The Modern Contrast)

DAY 13: HCMC ORIENTATION + WAR HISTORY

Morning (8am-12pm):

• Sleep in (arrived late last night)
• Breakfast near hostel (Bui Vien backpacker street)
• District 1 walking tour (DIY)
  • Dong Khoi Street (fancy shopping)
  • Notre Dame Cathedral (exterior—closed for renovation)
  • Saigon Central Post Office (French architecture)
  • People's Committee Building (photo op)
  • Time: 2-3 hours

Lunch:

• Pho 2000 (Bill Clinton ate here)
  • 80,000 VND = $3.20

Afternoon (1pm-5pm):

• War Remnants Museum (MUST SEE)
  • Entry: 40,000 VND ($1.60)
  • Vietnam War from Vietnamese perspective
  • Heavy, intense, important
  • Photos, tanks, helicopters, and the Agent Orange exhibition
  • Time: 2-3 hours
  • Emotional: Be prepared; it's confronting
• Rest at hostel after (you'll need processing time)

Evening (6pm-11pm):

• Bui Vien Walking Street (backpacker central)
  • Street closes to traffic at night
  • Bars, clubs, food, souvenir shops
  • Cheap beer (20,000 VND = $0.80)
  • Social, fun, touristy but enjoyable
  • Meet travelers for tomorrow's Cu Chi Tunnels

OR Quieter option:

• Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck (sunset)
  • Entry: 200,000 VND ($8)
  • 360° city views

Day 13 Budget: $26.60

DAY 14: CU CHI TUNNELS DAY TRIP

All Day (8am-2pm):

• Cu Chi Tunnels Half-Day Tour
  • Book: Via hostel or GetYourGuide ($20-30)
  • Pickup: 8am from hostel
  • Drive: 1.5 hours to Cu Chi

Cu Chi Experience:

• Underground tunnel network from Vietnam War
• Crawl through narrow tunnels (claustrophobic!)
• See booby traps, living quarters, war remnants
• Optional: Shoot AK-47 rifle (100,000 VND = $4 per bullet)
  • Controversial, loud, touristy
  • Up to you
• Time: 3 hours at tunnels
• Return HCMC ~2-3pm

Afternoon (3pm-6pm):

• Rest at the hostel (a hot, exhausting morning).
• We went last-minute shopping at Ben Thanh Market.
  • Bargain HARD (start at 30-40% of asking price)
  • Souvenirs, Vietnamese coffee, silk

Evening (7pm-11pm):

• Farewell Vietnam dinner (splurge!)
  • Nha Hang Ngon (upscale Vietnamese, 250,000 VND = $10)
  • OR street food one last time
• Pack for departure tomorrow
• Say goodbye to hostel friends
• Reflect on two incredible weeks!

Day 14 Budget: $77-107

DAY 15: LAST HCMC DAY OR DEPARTURE

If early flight:

• Morning taxi to airport
• Depart Vietnam

If evening flight:

• Morning: Sleep in, leisurely breakfast
• Café hopping (HCMC has incredible café culture)
  • The Workshop (hipster, industrial)
  • L'Usine (French-Vietnamese fusion)
  • Apartment cafes
• Last pho for lunch
• Checkout hostel, store bags
• More wandering District 1
• Optional: Mekong Delta day trip (if have full day)
  • 2 hours south, floating markets, boats
  • Book: $30-50 full-day tour

Evening:

• Grab to airport (30 min, 150,000-200,000 VND = $6-8)
• Fly home!

Day 15 Budget: $18

HCMC TOTAL (Days 13-15): $122-152 = $41-51/day

Highlights: War Remnants Museum (heavy but important), Cu Chi Tunnels (unique), HCMC cafe culture

Honest take: HCMC is less charming than Hanoi/Hoi An but important for historical context. The city serves as a convenient ending point for international flights.

2-WEEK TOTAL BUDGET:

Days 1-15: $721-950 = $46-56/day average

Does NOT include:

• International flights ($700-1,500)
• Travel insurance ($42/month)
• Visa ($25)

Total trip cost: $1,488-2,517 (everything)

Vietnam is VERY affordable for an incredible experience!

MY $200 MISTAKE: Underestimating Vietnam Distances

What I Did WRONG (First Trip):

Looked at the map: "Hanoi-HCMC doesn't look THAT far..."

Booked an ambitious 14-day itinerary:

• Hanoi (2 days)
• Sapa (2 days)
• Ha Long Bay (2 days)
• Ninh Binh (1 day)
• Hue (1 day)
• Hoi An (2 days)
• Nha Trang (2 days)
• HCMC (2 days)

Reality:

• Spent 40% of trip on buses/trains
• Overnight bus Hanoi-Sapa: 8 hours (uncomfortable)
• Bus Hue-Hoi An: 4 hours (not terrible)
• Overnight bus Hoi An-Nha Trang: 12 hours (BRUTAL)
• Bus Nha Trang-HCMC: 10 hours (exhausted)

Result:

😫 Arrived exhausted at every destination.

😫 I didn't have the energy to explore properly.

😫 Rushed, stressed, not fun

😫 Missed activities because "too tired."

😫 Got sick from exhaustion Day 11

Cost of trying to see everything:

• Spent: $200 on transport
• Wasted: $150 on missed activities
• Lost: Enjoyment of trip

What I Did RIGHT (Second Trip):

Accepted Vietnam is LONG. We prioritize quality over quantity.

Itinerary:

• Hanoi (4 days)—actually enjoyed
• Ha Long Bay (2 days)—not rushed
• Hoi An (5 days) - BEST decision
• HCMC (3 days) - relaxed
• Flying between major gaps resulted in the saving of days.

Result:

😊 Actually enjoyed each place.

😊 Had energy for activities

😊 I made friends and had time to socialize.

😊 There were spontaneous moments that provided breathing room.

😊 LEFT WANTING MORE (good problem!)

Lesson: Vietnam is 1,650km (1,025 miles) North to South. That's like NYC to Miami. You can't see it all in two weeks.

Accept this. Embrace quality over quantity. You can always return.

In fact, you WILL return. Vietnam is that good.

Save Sapa/Phong Nha/Mekong/Phu Quoc for the next trip.

This trip: Do four places well instead of eight places poorly.

Transport Logistics & Booking

Now that you understand WHY flying matters, here's exactly how to book your Vietnam transport:

FLIGHTS (Fastest):

- Hanoi ↔ Da Nang: $40-80 (1.5 hours)

- Da Nang ↔ HCMC: $40-80 (1.5 hours)

- Book: Skyscanner, Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, Bamboo Airways

TRAINS (Romantic but slow):

- Hanoi → Hue: Overnight 14 hours, $30-50 sleeper

- Book: Baolau.com

BUSES (Cheapest but longest):

- Sleeper buses: $15-30

- Book: 12Go Asia

MY RECOMMENDATION: FLY between major gaps, BUS for short distances only.

Itinerary Variations & Alternatives

IF YOU HAVE MORE/LESS TIME:

10 Days (Shorter):

• Hanoi (2) → Ha Long Bay (2) → Hoi An (4) → HCMC (2)
• Skip: Cu Chi, some Hanoi, beach time
• Rushed but covers highlights

3 Weeks:

• Add: Sapa (3), Ninh Binh (2), Hue (2), Phong Nha (2), Mekong (2)
• More relaxed, comprehensive
• Better pace

1 Month:

• Add the Northern Loop motorbike trip (5 days), Phu Quoc island (5 days), and Dalat (3 days).
• Slow travel, deep immersion
• Digital nomad pace

IF YOU PREFER:

More Beaches:

• Hanoi (2) → Ha Long Bay (2) → Hoi An (5) → Da Nang/beaches (3) → Nha Trang (3)
• Skip HCMC history, add beach time

More Mountains:

• Hanoi (2) → Sapa (4) → Ha Long Bay (2) → Ninh Binh (2) → Phong Nha (3) → Hoi An (3)
• Northern focus, mountains + nature

Party Focus:

• Hanoi (3) → Ha Long Bay party boat (2) → Hoi An (3) → Nha Trang (4) → HCMC/Bui Vien (2)
• Maximize social hostels

VIETNAM TRANSPORT: EXPECTATIONS VS REALITY

OVERNIGHT TRAINS

What Instagram Shows:

🌟 Romantic sleeper carriage

🌟 Clean sheets, cozy vibes

🌟 Watch countryside roll by

🌟 Wake up refreshed

Reality:

😅 Thin mattress, loud AC, bright lights

😅 Cabinmate snores loudly.

😅 Bathroom... questionable

😅 Wake up 10x from bumps.

😅 Arrive exhausted, need nap

😅 But honestly? KIND OF WORTH IT for experience

Cost: $30-50 for soft sleeper

Comfort: 5/10

Experience: 7/10

Verdict: Do it ONCE for the story. Then fly.

SLEEPER BUSES

What You Imagine:

🌟 Recline and sleep like in a bed.

🌟 Comfortable overnight journey

🌟 Save money + accommodation

Reality:

😅 Semi-reclined seat, not quite lying down

😅 Vietnamese size (small)—tall people suffer.

😅 Cold AC (bring jacket!)

😅 Driving is... aggressive.

😅 Sleep: 3/10 quality

😅 Arrive exhausted

Cost: $15-30

Comfort: 4/10

Verdict: If it's an extreme budget, okay. Otherwise, FLY.

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS

Budget Airlines (VietJet, Bamboo):

• The flights are fast, taking only 1-2 hours compared to a 12- to 18-hour bus ride.
• Comfortable
• Cost: $40-80 (book 2-4 weeks ahead)

Verdict: WORTH THE MONEY

• Saves DAYS of travel time
• Arrive with energy to explore
• On 2-week trip, time = most valuable

LOCAL TRANSPORT

Grab (SE Asia Uber):

• Cheaper than taxis
• No scams (price set before)
• English app
• Essential for Vietnam solo travel

Local taxis:

⚠️ Meter scams are common.

⚠️ "Broken meter" excuse

⚠️ Recommendation: Use Grab instead

Motorbike rental:

⚠️ Traffic in Vietnam = INSANE

⚠️ Scams: Fake damage charges

⚠️ Accidents: Very common

⚠️ Recommendation: Unless EXPERIENCED, DON'T

Bicycle:

• Hoi An: PERFECT (flat, small town)
• Hanoi: Only Old Quarter
• HCMC: NO (death wish)

MY TRANSPORT RECOMMENDATIONS:

Between cities:

• Hanoi → Da Nang/Hoi An: FLY ($50-80)
• Hoi An → HCMC: FLY ($50-80)
• Short distances (<200km): Bus okay

Within cities:

• Hanoi: Walk Old Quarter, Grab elsewhere
• Hoi An: BICYCLE everywhere
• HCMC: Grab (don't walk far)

For experience:

• Try overnight train ONCE (Hanoi-Hue)
• Then never again (fly the rest of the trip).

Budget Comparison (Hanoi→HCMC):

• Flight: $60 + 2 hours = Arrive ready to explore
• Train: $40 + 30 hours = Arrive exhausted
• Bus: $25 + 36 hours = Same as train but worse

The $35 difference is WORTH IT

Your time + energy + enjoyment > saving $35

Vietnam is LONG. Don't underestimate. FLY between major gaps. Your back/sanity will thank you.

Transport Logistics & Booking

FLIGHTS (Fastest):

• Hanoi ↔ Da Nang: $40-80 (1.5 hours)
• Da Nang ↔ HCMC: $40-80 (1.5 hours)
• Book: Skyscanner, Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, Bamboo Airways
• Tips: VietJet is the cheapest, and Vietnam Airlines is reliable.

TRAINS (Romantic but slow):

• The train from Hanoi to Hue takes 14 hours overnight and costs between $30 and $50 for a sleeper.
• Book: Baolau.com, Vietnam Railways website
• Tips: Book SE trains (higher numbers = newer); soft sleepers are worth it

BUSES (Cheapest but longest):

• Sleeper buses between cities: $15-30
• Book: 12Go Asia, hostel, Futa Bus Lines
• Reality: Budget option but exhausting

MY RECOMMENDATION:

• FLY between major gaps
• BUS for short distances
• TRAINS for experience (try once if curious)

Practical Vietnam Tips

WEATHER CONSIDERATIONS:

• Best time overall: Nov-Apr (dry season most of country)
• North (Hanoi): Cool Nov-Feb, hot Mar-May, rainy Jun-Oct
• Central (Hoi An): Rainy Sep-Jan, dry/perfect Feb-Aug
• South (HCMC): Hot year-round, rainy May-Nov
• AVOID: TET (Vietnamese New Year) - Jan/Feb lunar calendar
  • 2026 Tet: Jan 29 - Feb 4 (AVOID these weeks!)

VISA:

• E-visa: $25, 90 days, apply online 3-5 days before arrival
• Easy process: vietnamevisa.govt.vn (official site)

MONEY:

• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
• $1 USD = ~24,000-25,000 VND (lots of zeros!)
• ATMs everywhere: Withdraw 2,000,000-3,000,000 VND ($80-120)
• Tip: Use Grab for automatic payment

SIM CARD:

• Viettel or Mobifone: 200,000 VND ($8) for 30 days unlimited
• Buy: Airport or any phone shop
• Essential for Google Maps and Grab

LANGUAGE:

• English: LESS common than Thailand
• Google Translate: ESSENTIAL (download Vietnamese offline)
• Phrases: Xin chào (hello), Cảm ơn (thank you), Bao nhiêu? (how much?)

GRAB APP:

• Download immediately upon arrival
• Cheaper than taxis, no scams
• Essential for transport

🇻🇳 50 QUICK VIETNAM TIPS

MONEY:

💰 Withdraw 2-3 million VND at once (it's only $80-120).

💰 Keep small bills (vendors often "no change")

💰 Vietnam zeros = confusing (20,000 vs 200,000 very different!)

💰 Carry cash (many places don't take cards)

FOOD:

🍜 Pho for breakfast (that's when locals eat it)

🍜 Street food = safe & delicious

🍜 Banh Mi = best cheap meal (20,000-40,000 VND = $0.80-$1.60)

🍜 Vietnamese coffee = STRONG

🍜 "No ice" = Khong da (but ice usually fine)

LANGUAGE:

🗣️ Google Translate = ESSENTIAL

🗣️ Point at the menu and show fingers

🗣️ Learn basic phrases.

🗣️ Patience + smile = universal

TRANSPORT:

🚕 Download Grab app immediately

🚕 Never use taxis without a meter.

🚕 Traffic = insane

🚕 Crossing street: Walk slowly, steadily

🚕 Motorbike rental = dangerous

SAFETY:

🔒 Vietnam = very safe (8/10 rating)

🔒 Violent crime = rare

🔒 Bag snatching = occasional

🔒 Phone on street = hold tight

🔒 Scams are common but not dangerous

WEATHER:

☀️ HOT everywhere (30-35°C year-round in the South)

☀️ Hanoi winter = cool 15-20°C (bring jacket!)

☀️ Central Vietnam rain Nov-Jan

☀️ Sunscreen = ESSENTIAL

ACCOMMODATION:

🏨 Book 2-3 days ahead

🏨 Hostels = social (best for solo)

🏨 Female dorms are worth extra $2-4

🏨 Check location

ACTIVITIES:

🎯 Ha Long Bay = 2D/1N MINIMUM

🎯 Cooking classes = must-do

🎯 Book through Hostelworld/GetYourGuide

🎯 Free activities = best

GENERAL:

• Vietnam is harder than Thailand (less English)
• Vietnam = MORE rewarding (authentic, beautiful)
• 2 weeks = highlights only
• Slow down and enjoy more
• TET holidays = avoid
• E-visa = $25 online
• Travel insurance is essential.
• Pack light, and life easier
• Smile = makes everything easier

YOU'LL BE FINE! Vietnam looks intimidating, but you'll figure it out by Day 2. On Day 5, you'll feel like a local. On Day 14, you won't want to leave. Trust the process. 🇻🇳

Common Itinerary Mistakes

Mistake 1: Trying to See Everything "Tried adding Sapa + Mekong Delta to 2 weeks. Spent the entire trip on buses. Exhausted, I didn't enjoy anything."

Mistake 2: Underestimating Distances "Thought the Hanoi-HCMC overnight bus would be fine. 36 hours of hell."

Mistake 3: Ha Long Bay Day Cruise "Did a day cruise to save money. Rushed, not enough time. Wish I'd done 2D/1N."

Mistake 4: Not Enough Time in Hoi An "Gave Hoi An 2 days. Biggest regret. I should have spent at least 4-5 days in Hoi An.

Mistake 5: Traveling During Tet "Arrived in Vietnam Jan 30, Tet week. EVERYTHING CLOSED. Ruined trip. CHECK TET DATES!"

Mistake 6: South-to-North in Wrong Season "Started in HCMC in October (rainy), ended in Hanoi in November (rainy). Rained the entire trip."

Your Vietnam Adventure Starts Now

• 2 weeks = perfect Vietnam introduction
• North-to-South: Hanoi (4) + Ha Long Bay (2) + Hoi An (4) + HCMC (3) = balanced
• Pace yourself—Vietnam distances bigger than expected
• Don't skip Ha Long Bay 2D/1N cruise (worth every penny)
• Hoi An = most beautiful; give it 4+ days
• Budget $40-60/day realistic ($560-840 total)
• FLY between major gaps (saves days, worth cost)
• Vietnam harder than Thailand (language, transport) but MORE rewarding
• You will want to return to Vietnam, as Sapa, Phong Nha, Mekong, and Phu Quoc await your visit!
• Avoid Tet holidays (check dates!)
• Weather varies by region (research!)

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Vietnam is challenging, authentic, beautiful, and delicious—and absolutely worth it.

Your Vietnam adventure starts now! 🇻🇳