7-Day Vietnam Tour Plan: A Journey Through Culture, Nature & Flavor

From bustling cities to peaceful countryside, Vietnam offers an unforgettable travel experience. This 7-day tour plan takes you across the country’s most iconic destinations, perfect for a first-time visitor looking to see the highlights with a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Day 1: Touchdown in Hanoi

Start your adventure in the capital, a city where the old meets the new.

• Land in Hanoi and settle into a hotel in the Old Quarter
• Spend the afternoon walking through historic streets and sipping coffee at a sidewalk café
• Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and the nearby temple
• Enjoy your first taste of Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant

In the evening, catch a traditional water puppet show for a touch of local culture.

Day 2: Cruise Through Halong Bay

Take a day (or overnight) trip to one of Vietnam’s most stunning natural sights.

• Depart early for Halong Bay (about 4 hours from Hanoi)
• Board a boat for a cruise among towering limestone islands
• Explore hidden caves, go kayaking, or simply relax on deck
• Optional overnight on the boat for a peaceful evening on the water

Day 3: Explore Hanoi, Then Fly to Hue

Return to Hanoi in the morning if you did the overnight cruise. Spend the rest of the day exploring more of the capital or head straight to the airport for your flight to Hue.

• Discover the Temple of Literature or stroll through the French Quarter
• Catch an afternoon flight to Hue, the former imperial capital
• Settle into a riverside hotel and enjoy a calm evening walk by the Perfume River

Day 4: Discover the History of Hue

Dive into Vietnam’s royal past with a day of historic exploration.

• Tour the Imperial City and learn about the Nguyen dynasty
• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda and one of the royal tombs just outside the city
• Sample Hue’s unique local dishes for lunch and dinner

Hue is smaller and quieter than Hanoi—perfect for recharging while still soaking in culture.

Day 5: Scenic Drive to Hoi An

Travel by car over the Hai Van Pass to reach the charming town of Hoi An.

• Stop for photos at Lang Co Beach and the scenic pass along the way
• Arrive in Hoi An and check into a cozy hotel near the Ancient Town
• Explore the lantern-lit streets, riverside cafes, and artisan shops
• Enjoy a dinner cruise or street food night tour

Day 6: Life in Hoi An

Take a full day to enjoy everything this laid-back town has to offer.

• Join a cooking class in the morning or bike through the rice fields to a nearby village
• Relax at An Bang Beach in the afternoon
• In the evening, float a candle-lit lantern on the river for good luck

Hoi An is also a great place for getting clothes tailor-made—fast, affordable, and custom to your taste.

Day 7: Wrap Up in Ho Chi Minh City

Fly south to Vietnam’s largest city for a fast-paced finish to your trip.

• Visit the Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, and the city’s iconic post office
• Wander through Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs and snacks
• Enjoy your final dinner on a rooftop overlooking the skyline

Fly home with memories from every corner of Vietnam—north to south.

Optional Add-Ons

• Extend your stay with a trip to the Mekong Delta
• Add a beach day in Da Nang or Nha Trang
• Venture into the mountains of Sapa or Dalat if you have more time