Ultimate 3 weeks Vietnam Itinerary: North to South

Vietnam is one of the most welcoming, beautiful and easy to travel countries in Southeast Asia. It was one of the first countries in SEA that I visited and I can vouch that it is a perfect “entry-level” country for beginner travellers. Join us in this perfect 3-week Vietnam itinerary from the misty North to the warm South. Vietnam is a country that effortlessly captures the hearts of travelers with its warm hospitality, stunning landscapes, fascinating history and delicious food. In this perfect 3-week itinerary, we will take you on a journey from North to South, allowing you to immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Vietnam. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable voyage through the heart and soul of Vietnam. Let the exploration begin!

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Perfect Vietnam itinerary in 21 days

Days 1-2. Soak in the essence of Hanoi

Begin your adventure in the capital city of Hanoi, where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modernity. Explore the Old Quarter, with its narrow streets and vibrant markets, and don’t miss a visit to the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake. Immerse yourself in Vietnamese history at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. And don’t forget to indulge in its fantastic street food, from steaming bowls of pho to crispy banh mi, and experience the vibrant nightlife of the city.

READ: 15 best things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam

Days 2-5. Trek in the rice fields of Sa Pa

Travel to the breathtaking mountains of Sa Pa, located in the northwest region of Vietnam. In Sa Pa you’ll find the picture perfect rice terraces that cover mountains and valleys. Meet the hill tribes of Vietnam, like the Hmong or the Dao, and feel at home by the welcoming people of the Ha Giang region. Trekking in Sa Pa’s mountains will be one of your most unforgettable experiences in Vietnam, exploring the vibrant rice terraces, finding hidden waterfalls, visiting local villages and meeting some of the most welcoming people on the planet.

READ: Trekking in Sapa with Sapa Sisters

Optional. Add 3 more days for the Ha Giang Loop

Days 5-7. Sail through the otherworldly Ha Long Bay

Next, set sail on another bucketlist journey to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This otherworldly landscape of emerald waters dotted with thousands of limestone karst islands and islets has rightfully become one of the 7 natural wonders of the world and the profile picture of the whole country. Explore the hidden caves, kayak through its bays and lagoons and enjoy its mesmerizing sunsets.

READ: Halong Bay cruise with Cristina Diamond

READ: Halong Bay cruise: how to choose the best one

Days 7-10. Unwind in the countryside of Ninh Binh

Continue your adventure to Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Halong Bay in land“. This area has some of the most breathtaking landscapes in all of Vietnam, with rice fields and rivers surrounded by towering karst mountains. Take a rowboat and expore the Trang An Landscape Complex, where limestone cliffs rise dramatically from the water, forming a maze of caves, rivers, and rice paddies. See Tam Coc from above from the Hang Mua viewpoint. And don’t miss a visit to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the breathtaking Bai Dinh Pagoda.

READ: Perfect 3 days Ninh Binh itinerary

READ: Ninh Binh, the Halong Bay in Land

Days 10-11. Discover ancient history in Hue

Start your exploration of Central Vietnam in the imperial city of Hue, the cultural heart of Vietnam. Explore the UNESCO-listed Imperial City, with its magnificent palaces, temples, and royal tombs. Take a leisurely boat ride along the Perfume River, visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, and savor the city’s delicious cuisine. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Hue and be transported back in time to Vietnam’s imperial past.

Days 11-13. Fall in love under the lanterns of Hoi An

Continue your journey to the charming town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ancient streets lined with yellow shophouses and decorated with colorful silk lanterns will make you fall in love with what I think is the most beautiful city in all of Southeast Asia. Admir the well-preserved architecture that reflects a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences. Explore the bustling local markets, visit the historical sites and don’t forget to explore the city’s culinary wonders, since it is one of the cities with the best food in the region.

READ: What to do in Hoi An: the ancient gem of Vietnam

Days 13-15. Relax at Nha Trang & Da Lat

Make your way to the coastal city of Nha Trang, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant underwater world. This is one of the the most popular beach and snorkeling destinations in Vietnam, and for a reason. You can pair it with an adventure inland to the charming city of Da Lat, nestled amidst the picturesque Central Highlands. Explore the lush greenery, flower gardens, and serene lakes that give Da Lat its nickname, the “City of Eternal Spring.” Discover the French colonial architecture, visit the enchanting Valley of Love, and take a cable car ride to enjoy panoramic views from Lang Biang Peak. Indulge in the cool climate and savor the local delicacies and aromatic coffee that this hill station is renowned for.

Days 15-17. Get sporty at Mui Ne

Head south to the coastal town of Mui Ne, famous for its stunning sand dunes and idyllic beaches. Marvel at the surreal landscapes of the White and Red Sand Dunes, where you can try sandboarding or simply enjoy the breathtaking views. Relax on the pristine beaches, indulge in fresh seafood, and join the vibrant kitesurfing scene. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Fairy Stream, a scenic waterway with vibrant colors and unique rock formations.

Days 17-21. Learn Vietnam’s contemporary history at Ho Chi Minh & Mekong Delta

Conclude your journey in the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. South Vietnam’s former capital was witness of the country’s most recent history. Explore historical landmarks like the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. Wander through the bustling streets of Ben Thanh Market, sample mouthwatering street food, and experience the city’s energetic nightlife. Don’t forget to venture into the Mekong Delta, where you can cruise along the intricate waterways, visit floating markets, and discover the rural charms of the region.

READ: A Guide to Ho Chi Minh City

READ: Top Day Trips from Ho Chi Minh City

Optional. Add 3 more days for Phu Quoc

How to move around in Vietnam

Since Vietnam is a very long and thin country, the points of interest are lined up very nicely. This means that Vietnam itineraries are quite standard and there are plenty of transportation options. The transportation of choice is the bus. There are many companies that offer really comfortable buses with air conditioning and even beds! The train is a close second and getting better by the day. Check out the schedules below:

That being said, Vientam is a big country, and some of the distances are long. This means some times 12h and up inside a bus or train. That is rough! However, with the development of the country in the last decades, plenty of airports have sprouted, making it easier and faster to move from one area to the next. If you’re not on a budget, this will make the use of your time much more efficient. Check out your flights in the search box below:

Where to stay in Vietnam

Vietnam is a country with a wide array of accommodations to offer. From very low budget to high end luxury, you’ll find whatever you’re looking for! For those trying to stretch the money, sleeper buses are your friends. But otherwise, accommodation in Vietnam is very affordable compared to most countries! You can find your accommodation in the search box below, but if you know where you’re going, I suggest you look at the dedicated posts for each area (which I have added in each section), where I give specific recommendations based on your budget.

Closing statement

As you can see, Vietnam offers a wide array of experience that can cater to basically every palate and budget, from the misty mountains in the north, to the breathtaking landscapes of Halong Bay and Ninh Binh, the history and culture of Central Vietnam and the modern history and beach life of the South. If you’re thinking of a trip to Vietnam, consider this post a sign to book your tickets and discover this incredible country!

If you are in the area, perhaps you want to have a look at these posts, and many more that are coming:

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