7

Days Vietnam Itinerary

Welcome to Hanoi, the heart of Vietnam! Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you can easily reach your hotel via taxis, shuttle buses, or private transfers. Check into your hotel and freshen up.

Later, you can head out and stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and discover the iconic Turtle Tower rising from the water. Also, you can visit the historic Ngoc Son Temple, located on a small island in the lake and a symbol of Vietnamese spirituality and history. Then, savor delicious Vietnamese lunch at the nearby restaurants.

Lunch Recommendations: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch, or you can try the iconic Bún Cha, a delightful mix of grilled pork, rice noodles, and fresh herbs, paired with a side of crispy spring rolls.

Also Try These Food Joints When in Hanoi: Bun Cha Ta Hanoi, VIET Restaurant Hanoi, and Hoang's Restaurant: Vietnamese Restaurant & Vegan Food.

Post lunch, explore the Old Quarter, a maze of 36 streets brimming with unique shops, street food vendors, and colonial architecture. Don’t miss the famous Train Street, where you can sip coffee while watching trains pass by. Exploring these vibrant streets and hidden gems is among the top things to do in Vietnam. Also, visit the Vietnamese Women Museum for an insightful glimpse into the role of women in Vietnam's history and culture.

After exploration, conclude your day with an amazing dinner.

Dinner Recommendations: Savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Quan An Ngon, offering a variety of traditional dishes in a charming setting. Here you can try their exclusive Nem Rán (fried spring rolls).

Hotel Recommendations:

• Deluxe: Diamond Legend Hotel or The Light Hotel Hanoi

• Super Deluxe: La Passion Hotel and Spa or La Passion Premium Cau Go

• Luxury: The Oriental Jade Hotel or Shining Central Hotel & Spa

Dive into Hanoi’s rich history and cultural heritage as you explore its iconic landmarks. You can start your day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of Vietnam's revered leader. It is a symbol of national pride and unity.

Next, just a short walk away, discover the stunning One Pillar Pagoda, an architectural marvel shaped like a lotus. Also, visit the Thrillophilia Vietnam Itinerary-recommended Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university and a masterpiece of Confucian architecture. This historic site is among the top places to visit in Hanoi, offering a glimpse into the country's rich scholarly traditions. Post-exploration, head out for your lunch.

Lunch Recommendations: Try authentic Vietnamese street food, including Banh Xeo (crispy pancakes) at some famous restaurants.

Also Try These Food Joints: Quan An Ngon, The Rhythms Restaurant and Diamond Sky Bar

After lunch, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to gain insights into the diverse cultures of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups through captivating exhibits and traditional houses. Then, take a leisurely stroll around West Lake, Hanoi’s largest freshwater lake, offering amazing views.

Conclude your day at the Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temple, perched on a small island and witness the stunning sunset reflecting on the lake. Later, enjoy an amazing dinner at Hanoi's Best Restaurants and try amazing dishes.

Dinner Recommendations: Try the famous Cha Ca at Cha Ca Thang Long and for a romantic ambiance, try Home Hanoi Restaurant.

Today, enjoy a day trip to Ninh Binh, a land of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage! Often called the "Halong Bay on Land," this destination captivates visitors with its limestone karsts, lush rice paddies, and stunning waterways. From Hanoi, it’s a comfortable 2-hour journey by car, train, or bus to reach this stunning region.

Upon arrival, you can take a private transfer or taxi and explore the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can opt for a scenic boat ride. As you glide along the emerald waterways, you’ll pass through mysterious caves and beneath towering limestone cliffs.

Then, you can marvel at the intricate carvings and historical relics, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s 10th-century heritage at the Hoa Lu Temples of the Dinh and Le Dynasties. Later, head to try special dishes of Ninh Binh.

Lunch Recommendations: You can try the famous goat meat, a speciality of Ninh Binh or try the crispy rice crust.

Also Try These Food Joints When in Ninh Binh: Thang Long Restaurant, Mien Luon Ba Phan and Ngoc Phuong Restaurant.

After lunch, explore Tam Coc (Three Caves) for another scenic boat ride. As you sail along the Ngo Dong River, marvel at the beauty of rice paddies flanked by towering limestone karsts. Next, you can visit Bich Dong Pagoda, an ancient temple complex nestled against a dramatic limestone mountain.

It is often referred to as the "Second Most Beautiful Cave in Vietnam." Conclude your day with an amazing dinner.

Dinner Recommendations: Try the famous wood-fired pizza at Chookie’s Beer Garden or enjoy stir-fried goat meat at the Hoàng Giang Restaurant.

After dinner, head back to your hotel in Hanoi for a relaxing overnight stay.

Today, get ready to journey to Da Nang, a coastal city in central Vietnam. After breakfast, head to the airport and take a short flight from Hanoi to Da Nang, which typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Upon arrival in Da Nang, take a private transfer or bus to your hotel.

After check-in, you can visit the iconic Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone peaks and take a cable car ride to the top for an unforgettable experience. After exploring the Marble Mountains, treat yourself to a delicious Vietnamese lunch.

Lunch Recommendations: Try fresh seafood and Mi Quang, a local noodle dish that’s a specialty of the region, or opt for grilled fish served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Also Try These Food Joints When in Da Nang:  Bamboo Bar & Restaurant, Ba Pho and Nha Bep Xua Restaurant

Post lunch, you can head to My Khe Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, known for its soft white sand and clear blue waters. Here, you can try water sports like surfing and jet skiing. If you're more inclined toward history and culture, make a trip to the Cham Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Cham sculpture.

End your day by soaking in Da Nang’s vibrant nightlife and enjoying amazing dishes.

Dinner Recommendations: Thìa Go Restaurant Da Nang and Bep Cuon dà Nang.

Hotels Reccomendations:

• Deluxe: Luxtery Da Nang or Diamond Sea Hotel, Da Nang

• Super Deluxe: Cicilia Hotel or Grand Gold

• Luxury: Abogo Resort Villas Beachview Da Nang or Wyndham Hoi An Royal Beachfront Resort & Villas

Don’t miss the chance to visit the iconic Japanese-covered Bridge —a must-visit spot in Thrillophilia’s Vietnam itinerary, built in the 16th century and adorned with intricate carvings. The bridge is one of Hoi An’s most photographed spots and a symbol of the town’s multicultural history.

Lunch Recommendations: Take a break and try the iconic Cao Lau, a noodle dish unique to Hoi An, or the delicious White Rose Dumplings filled with shrimp or pork.

Also Try These Food Joints When in Hoi An: The Cargo Club and Bánh Mi Phuong.

After lunch, take a relaxing boat ride along the Thu Bon River and soak in the stunning views of Hoi An’s lush countryside. The boat ride will take you to Thanh Ha Pottery Village, a historic village that has been renowned for its pottery making for over 500 years.

Here you’ll have the chance to witness artisans crafting beautiful ceramic pieces using age-old techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Dinner Recommendations: Enjoy authentic Vietnamese flavors at Minh Hien Vegetarian Restaurant or visit Bale Well Restaurant, where you can enjoy local specialties such as Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese pancakes) or Bánh Bao Bánh Vac (dumplings).

After an amazing time in Hoi An, head back to your hotel in Da Nang for a relaxing overnight stay.

A one week trip to Vietnam offers options for every budget, with costs depending on your travel style and preferences. For budget travelers, the average expense is around INR59,000 per person, excluding international flights.

Mid-range travelers typically spend more than INR60,000, while luxury experiences start from INR75,000 for premium services and exclusive experiences.

• Budget Travelers - Daily expenses: INR2,000 to INR3,500 with staying in affordable hostels or budget hotels and dine at local eateries and street food stalls.
  

• Mid-Range Travelers - Daily expenses: INR4,000 to INR7,000 with staying in comfortable 3- to 4-star hotels or boutique accommodations. Also, enjoy a mix of local and international dining experiences.
  

• Luxury Travelers - Daily expenses: INR10,000 and above with staying in high-end resorts or luxury hotels with premium amenities. Also, indulge in gourmet dining, private tours, and spa treatments.

Vietnam offers a range of convenient and affordable transportation options that cater to different budgets and travel preferences. Whether you're exploring the bustling cities or the serene countryside, getting around in Vietnam is both cost-effective and enjoyable.

• Domestic Flights: For long-distance travel between major cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City, domestic flights are a time-saving option. Airlines like Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, and Bamboo Airways offer frequent flights. (Cost: INR2,500 to INR6,000 per one-way ticket)
  
  

• Trains: Vietnam's Reunification Express connects Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City with scenic routes along the coast. Soft and hard-sleeper options are available for overnight journeys. (Cost: INR1,000 to INR3,000 per leg, depending on the class and distance)
  
  

• Buses: Local and intercity buses, including sleeper buses, are budget-friendly and well-connected across the country. (Cost: INR300 to INR1,500 per trip, depending on the distance and type of bus)
  
  

• Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services: Taxis are widely available in cities, but apps like Grab offer a more reliable and affordable option for short-distance travel. (Cost: INR100 to INR200 per kilometer for taxis; Grab rides are often cheaper)
  
  

• Motorbike Rentals: Motorbikes are a popular choice for independent travelers, especially for exploring areas like Ninh Binh or the Hai Van Pass. (Cost: INR500 to INR800 per day for rentals; additional fuel costs apply)
  
  

• Cyclo and Bicycle Rentals: For a more traditional experience, cyclos (three-wheeled bicycle taxis) and bicycles are excellent for short distances and exploring quieter areas like Hoi An or the Old Quarter in Hanoi. (Cost: INR50 to INR150 for cyclos per ride; INR150 to INR300 per day for bicycles)
  
  

• Public Transport: Buses and minibuses in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are economical for navigating urban areas. (Cost: INR20 to INR50 per trip)

Vietnam's climate varies by region, so what is the best time to visit Vietnam? It depends on where you’re going:.

• North (Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay): Spring (March to April) and Autumn (September to November) offer pleasant weather, ideal for travel.
  
  

• Central (Da Nang): The dry season (February to August) is characterized by warm temperatures, suitable for beach activities.
  
  

• South (Ho Chi Minh City): Features a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry (December to April) and wet (May to November). The dry season is preferable for tourists.

1. Visa: Indian citizens require a visa to enter Vietnam. The e-Visa is a convenient option, allowing for a single entry with a maximum stay of 90 days. If you're wondering how much is a visa for Vietnam from India, the cost varies based on the type and duration of the visa. At least two blank pages in the passport and two passport-sized pictures are required for travellers booking the Vietnam Tour Packages from India

2. Time Zone: Vietnam operates on Indochina Time (ICT), which is UTC+7. This places it 1 hour and 30 minutes ahead of Indian Standard Time (IST).

3. Connectivity and WiFi: Vietnam boasts widespread internet connectivity, with free Wi-Fi commonly available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. If you're wondering how much is a SIM Card in Vietnam, the cost varies depending on the provider and data plan. For continuous access, consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival.

4. Electricity: Vietnamese power outlets typically accommodate flat pins (Type A), similar to those in Japan and North America, as well as Type C plugs (European style), featuring two prongs without a grounding pin. As a result, carrying an adapter is usually unnecessary.

5. Currency Exchange: The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). As of January 2025, the exchange rate is approximately 1 VND = 0.0034 INR. It's advisable to carry some local currency for small purchases, though credit cards are accepted in many establishments.

By considering these factors in your Vietnam itinerary, you can ensure a well-prepared and enjoyable journey through Vietnam's diverse and vibrant destinations.