Many of you may be planning the perfect two-week vacation with spring break fast approaching. Vietnam is an ideal choice for a two-week vacation as domestic travel is quite efficient, allowing you to visit many places in a short period of time. Moreover, whether you prefer a vacation with adventure, beach, relaxation, luxury or magic, Vietnam has something for everyone. As part of our ‘Customized itineraries for Vietnam’ series, here is a sample itinerary to guide you through the trip planning process and show you the big picture of Vietnam.
Two weeks in Vietnam? These are the places you should visit:
Hanoi
The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a great introduction to the culture of this country. Hanoi is a city steeped in history and the people here are quite proud of their city, heritage and country. The backpacker scene in Hanoi is vibrant too, and even if you’re not a backpacker, the Hoan Kiem area is one of the most popular tourist areas. Hanoi also has the highest number of motorbikes in Vietnam and one of the highest in the world, so be careful when crossing the street as traffic can get very chaotic, at least. !
- Recommended – 2 days, 2 nights
Ha Long Bay
Cruises on Ha Long Bay can be one of the most luxurious experiences in Vietnam if not in Southeast Asia. Waking up on the water surrounded by huge limestone formations is breathtaking. A one-night cruise is usually enough to get a feel for Halong Bay, but if time permits, we strongly recommend a 2-night cruise. On the second night, many yachts host candlelit dinners on the beach located in the cove or dinner inside a cave. Either way, the experience is truly breathtaking.
- Recommended – 3 days, 2 nights
Want more organized tours? They’re a great way to get a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture, so check out our favorite tour companies around the country.
Hue, Dong Hoi, Phong Nha Caves
A trip to Vietnam would not be complete without a visit to Hue, especially if you are a history buff. Besides being a city of historical significance, this ancient capital also has a very ancient and mystical atmosphere. The areas around Hue are equally beautiful. Recently, the world’s largest cave was discovered in central Vietnam. Access to this cave is still limited and expensive, but there are other caves in the area that are still awe-inspiring. Phong Nha and Paradise Caves are two of the most famous caves in the area. Many hotels and tour companies based in Phong Nha, Dong Hoi (the city closest to the caves) and in Hue offer transfers and tours to the caves. Dong Hoi can be reached by train from Hue or other nearby cities, or by flight from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.
- Recommended – 3 nights (1 night in Hue, 2 nights in Phong Nha)
Hoi An
Hoi An is one of the most unique cities in Vietnam. The Old Town part of the city is a UNESCO heritage site and the old architecture is wonderfully preserved and displayed. The city is a major center of paper lantern production, and at night all the paper lantern shop owners decorate their stalls with lit lanterns – a sight to behold! Hoi An is also famous for tailor-made with over 400 shops tailoring suits, clothes, shoes, bags and more to your specifications. And the tailors are so talented that they can make anything within hours! Hoi An has no airport or train station – the nearest transport hub is in Da Nang, so be sure to inform your hotel or guesthouse in Hoi An to arrange pick up and drop off.
- Recommended – 2 days, 1 night (2 full days are ideal if you are interested in custom tailoring)
Ho Chi Minh City
An interesting feature about Ho Chi Minh City is that the perception of the city is quite different from other cities in Vietnam. The people, the street, the layout, the architecture, the food – it’s all unique. The city is a delightful mix of excitement and chaos, relaxation and chill, and we hope you enjoy all the sights and sounds that Ho Chi Minh City has to offer. Check out our previous blog for tips on how to spend a day in Ho Chi Minh City.
- Recommended – 2 days, 2 nights
Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc is one of the most beautiful beaches and islands in the country. Many call it the next Phuket, but it retains a rustic and unusual feel. A newly opened international airport in Phu Quoc will soon accept direct flights from Thailand and Singapore, so we recommend you visit this place before tourism here develops further! The island has a very tranquil and relaxing feel, so it was the perfect way to end a two-week vacation.
