6 Days / 5 Nights | Ho Chi Minh City → Hanoi → Halong Bay
PLAN NOWEmbark on a dynamic 6-day journey through Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes and cultural landmarks. This itinerary is meticulously designed to showcase the country’s rich history, vibrant cities, and natural wonders, from the southern pulse of Ho Chi Minh City to the tranquil waters of Halong Bay. Your adventure begins in Saigon, where colonial architecture, war history, and bustling markets set the tone for your exploration. You’ll venture into the underground world of the Cu Chi Tunnels, then cruise the lush canals of the Mekong Delta, sampling tropical fruits and local folk music along the way. A short domestic flight will take you north to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital of heritage, where ancient pagodas, fascinating museums, and a maze of ancient streets await. The journey continues with an excursion to the serene countryside of Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land,” before concluding with a breathtaking overnight cruise through Halong Bay’s towering limestone karsts. This tour blends cultural immersion, historical insight, and scenic relaxation, making it ideal for travelers seeking a complete Vietnam experience in under a week.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Total Duration | 6 Days / 5 Nights |
| Destinations Covered | Ho Chi Minh City (2 nights), Hanoi (3 nights) |
| Arrival Point | Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) |
| Departure Point | Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) |
| Domestic Flight | Ho Chi Minh City → Hanoi (Day 3) |
| Best Travel Season | October to April (dry season across regions) |
| Ideal For | Culture lovers, history enthusiasts, couples, and families |
Overview: This 6-day journey explores the vibrant history and culture of Vietnam, from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the natural wonders of the Mekong Delta and Halong Bay.
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Route: Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta → Cu Chi Tunnels → Hanoi → Halong Bay
Vietnam’s climate varies by region, so timing your trip is key:
| Region | Best Travel Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| South (HCMC, Mekong) | December to April | Dry, sunny weather ideal for river cruises and city tours |
| North (Hanoi, Halong Bay) | October to April | Cool, dry climate perfect for sightseeing and cruising |
| Avoid | May to August | Hot and humid with chances of heavy rain and storms |
Tip: Avoid Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year, Jan–Feb) unless you want to experience cultural festivities—many services may be closed.
| City / Region | Must-Visit Attractions & Experiences |
|---|---|
| Ho Chi Minh City | Independence Palace, Ben Thanh Market, War Remnants Museum, Saigon River waterbus, Notre Dame Cathedral |
| Mekong Delta | Vinh Trang Pagoda, Unicorn Island, Thoi Son Canal boat ride, honey farm, coconut candy factory, village cycling |
| Cu Chi Tunnels | Underground tunnel network, field kitchens, shooting range (optional), cassava tasting |
| Hanoi | Ho Chi Minh Complex, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Old Quarter |
| Halong Bay | Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, Luon Cave kayaking, limestone karsts, sunset party onboard cruise |
Vietnam’s cultural calendar is rich and regionally diverse:
Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly at temples, remove shoes before entering sacred spaces, and avoid touching heads or pointing feet at people.
Vietnamese cuisine varies by region—southern dishes are sweeter, northern ones are more herbaceous and subtle.
| City / Region | Signature Dishes | Recommended Spots |
|---|---|---|
| Ho Chi Minh City | Bánh Mì, Cơm Tấm, Pho Saigon | Pho Hoa Pasteur, Banh Mi Huynh Hoa, Secret Garden |
| Mekong Delta | Elephant ear fish, honey tea, tropical fruits | Local village eateries, riverside lunch spots |
| Hanoi | Pho Hanoi, Bún Chả, Egg Coffee | Pho Thin, Bun Cha Ta, Giang Café |
| Halong Bay | Chả Mực (grilled squid), seafood hotpot | Onboard cruise dining, Halong Night Market food stalls |
Vegetarian options are available—request “ăn chay” meals.
| City / Region | Shopping Highlights |
|---|---|
| Ho Chi Minh City | Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Square, An Dong Market, Duy Tan Artisan Shop |
| Mekong Delta | Local handicrafts, coconut candy, honey products |
| Hanoi | Dong Xuan Market, Weekend Night Market, Lotte Center Hanoi, Hang Gai silk street |
| Halong Bay | Halong Market, Bai Chay Commercial Center, Floating Fruit Market, Vincom Plaza Halong |
Popular souvenirs: lacquerware, silk scarves, lotus tea, handmade jewelry, propaganda art, and squid snacks.
Indian citizens must obtain a visa before entering Vietnam. The most convenient option is the Vietnam E-Visa.
Tip: Apply at least 7 working days before travel. Print and carry your E-Visa for immigration clearance.