A Week in Vietnam 8 Days & 7 Nights

A Week in Vietnam guide—crafted for travelers who want to experience the country’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable flavors in just seven days.

Vietnam is a country of contrasts—ancient temples and modern cities, misty mountains and sun-kissed beaches, street food stalls and luxury resorts. In one week, you can journey from the cultural heart of Hanoi to the limestone wonders of Ha Long Bay, explore the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, and end with the urban buzz of Ho Chi Minh City.

Suggested Route:

• Day 1–2: Hanoi – Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature
• Day 3: Ha Long Bay – Cruise among limestone karsts
• Day 4–5: Da Nang & Hoi An – Golden Bridge, beach time, lantern nights
• Day 6–7: Ho Chi Minh City – War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, rooftop bars

✅ Dos and ❌ Don’ts

✅ Dos

• Use Grab or Gojek apps for safe and affordable transport
• Try local dishes: pho, banh mi, bun cha, com tam, and egg coffee
• Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas
• Learn basic Vietnamese phrases—locals appreciate the effort
• Bargain politely in markets
• Get a local SIM card for easy navigation and communication
• Take domestic flights to save time between cities

❌ Don’ts

• ❌ Don’t drink tap water—stick to bottled or filtered
• ❌ Don’t flash valuables—especially in crowded areas
• ❌ Don’t expect Western-style punctuality—go with the flow
• ❌ Don’t disrespect sacred sites—remove shoes and stay quiet
• ❌ Don’t overpack—light luggage makes travel smoother

📅 Best Time to Visit

Vietnam’s climate varies by region, so here’s a breakdown to help you plan:

🗺️ If You’re Traveling North to South (Hanoi → Hue → Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City)

Best Months: November to March

• Why:
  • Cool, dry weather in the north (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay)
  • Sunny skies in central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An)
  • Warm and dry in the south (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta)
• Bonus: Lunar New Year (Tet) usually falls in late January or early February—festive but busy!

🏖️ If You’re Focusing on the South (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)

Best Months: December to April

• Why:

• Dry season with minimal rain
• Ideal for beach days, boat tours, and city exploration

🏞️ If You’re Exploring the North (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay)

Best Months: October to April

• Why:

• Crisp air and clear skies
• Great for trekking in Sapa and cruising Ha Long Bay