Vietnam 2-week itinerary from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh


Embark on Vietnam 2-week itinerary from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City and discover its beauty, rich heritage, and tantalizing cuisine firsthand.

Vietnam is one of the most visited countries in Asia. It is a country of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine.

From the bustling city of Hanoi in the north to the lush countryside of Hoi An in central Vietnam, and finally the thriving metropolis of Ho Chi Minh in the south, a 2-week itinerary will allow you to experience the best that this country has to offer.

Day 1-3: Hanoi

vietnam 2 week itinerary ho chi minh mosuleum with two guards in the front

Begin your Vietnam 2-week itinerary in the heart of the country, in the capital city of Hanoi. The city is very accessible from Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport,

This city is a unique blend of modern and traditional, with its bustling streets and French colonial architecture.

Attractions to visit in Hanoi:

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: This is the final resting place of the beloved Vietnamese leader and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the country’s history.

The Temple of Literature: This ancient temple is dedicated to Confucius and is a beautiful example of Vietnamese architecture.

The Old Quarter: This is a maze of narrow streets and bustling markets that are a great place to sample some of Hanoi’s famous street food.

Hoan Kiem Lake: This peaceful lake is surrounded by lush gardens and is a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Tips for Hanoi:

  • Be prepared for the traffic, as the streets can be chaotic, but it is part of the city’s charm.
  • Be sure to try some of the famous street food, such as pho or banh mi.
  • Take a cooking class to learn how to make some of the local dishes.

Day 4-7: Hue

vietnam 2 week itinerary woman with traditional vietnamese hat in citadel gardens

Next, head south to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. This city is steeped in history and is home to many cultural and historical landmarks.

Attractions to visit in Hue:

The Citadel: This is the former imperial palace and is a great place to learn about the history of the Nguyen dynasty.

Thien Mu Pagoda: This beautiful pagoda is one of the oldest in Vietnam and offers stunning views of the Perfume River.

The Royal Tombs: These elaborate tombs are the final resting places of the Nguyen emperors and are a must-visit for anyone interested in Vietnamese history.

Tips for Hue:

  • Rent a bicycle and explore the city at a leisurely pace.
  • Take a boat tour on the Perfume River to see the city from a different perspective.
  • Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as banh khoai and bun bo hue.

Day 8-10: Hoi An

vietnam 2 week itinerary streets of hoin an woman selling flowers

After exploring the cultural and historical landmarks of Hue, head to Hoi An, a charming riverside town that is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history.

Attractions to visit in Hoi An:

The Ancient Town: This is the historic center of Hoi An and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a stroll along the narrow streets and admire the beautiful buildings and lanterns.

The Japanese Covered Bridge: This beautiful bridge is a symbol of Hoi An and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the town’s history.

Tips for Hoi An:

  • Rent a bicycle and explore the countryside around Hoi An, taking in the scenic rice paddies and traditional villages.
  • Take a cooking class to learn how to make some of the local specialties, such as cao lau and banh xeo.
  • Visit a tailor and have some custom-made clothing made. Hoi An is famous for its tailoring and is a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs.

Day 11-14: Ho Chi Minh City

front of ho chi minh post office

Finally, finish your 2-week itinerary in Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis that is the economic heart of Vietnam.

Attractions to visit in Ho Chi Minh City:

The War Remnants Museum: This museum is a sobering reminder of the impact of the Vietnam War and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the country’s history.

The Notre-Dame Cathedral: This stunning cathedral is a beautiful example of French colonial architecture and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Central Post Office: This historic building is a great place to send postcards home or just admire the architecture.

The Ben Thanh Market: This is a great place to pick up some souvenirs or sample some of the local street food.

Tips for Ho Chi Minh City:

  • Why not embark on a delightful walking tour through the city to soak up the local culture and fascinating history? It’s a fantastic way to get a feel for the place!
  • Try some of the local specialties, such as banh mi and nem ran.
  • Take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, which are a network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.

FAQs on Vietnam 2-week itinerary

What are the highlights of a 2-week itinerary in Vietnam?

A 2-week itinerary in Vietnam allows you to explore various destinations. Highlights include Hanoi, with its bustling streets and historic sites; Hue, the former imperial capital known for its cultural landmarks; Hoi An, a charming riverside town with beautiful architecture; and Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis with historical sites and vibrant markets.

What are some must-visit attractions in Hanoi?

In Hanoi, make sure to visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, the Old Quarter for street food, and Hoan Kiem Lake for relaxation.

What attractions should I see in Hue?

While in Hue, don’t miss the Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Royal Tombs, which offer insights into Vietnam’s history and imperial past.

What are the must-see attractions in Hoi An?

In Hoi An, explore the Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of the town’s history.

What should I do in Ho Chi Minh City?

In Ho Chi Minh City, visit the War Remnants Museum, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the Ben Thanh Market. Consider taking a walking tour and a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

What are some tips for visiting Vietnam?

Be prepared for traffic and chaotic streets in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Sample the delicious street food, take cooking classes, rent bicycles to explore, and try local specialties in each city. Consider visiting tailor shops in Hoi An for custom-made clothing.

Is this itinerary suitable for families or solo travelers?

This itinerary is suitable for both families and solo travelers. Families can engage in educational experiences, and solo travelers can explore at their own pace while enjoying the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam.

Ready to travel to Vietnam on a 2-week itinerary?

With this Vietnam 2-week itinerary, you will get a chance to experience the best that this country has to offer, from its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty to its delicious cuisine and bustling cities.

Whether you are interested in history, culture, or just want to relax and enjoy the scenery, Vietnam has something to offer for everyone.