Vietnam North to South: 2-Week Itinerary

Vietnam stretches 1,600 kilometers from the terraced rice paddies of the north to the lush Mekong Delta in the south. This tested 14-day itinerary hits all the highlights while leaving room for spontaneous exploration.

Days 1-3: Hanoi

Begin in Vietnam's atmospheric capital. Wander the chaotic Old Quarter's 36 streets (each named for the goods historically sold there). Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature (Vietnam's first university, dating to 1070), and the haunting Hoa Lo Prison museum. Take a water puppet show in the evening. Spend a morning exploring the serene West Lake area by bicycle.

Must-eat: Pho bo (beef pho) at a street stall, bun cha (grilled pork with noodles - the dish Obama ate with Anthony Bourdain), and egg coffee at Giang Cafe.

Days 4-5: Ha Long Bay

Board an overnight junk boat cruise through the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay. Kayak through limestone karsts, explore hidden caves, swim in emerald waters, and watch sunrise over 1,600 islands and islets. For fewer crowds, consider Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay instead of the main route.

Days 6-7: Ninh Binh & Tam Coc

Known as "Ha Long Bay on land," Ninh Binh features dramatic limestone karsts rising from lush rice paddies. Take a sampan boat through Tam Coc's three cave tunnels. Cycle through the countryside to Bich Dong Pagoda. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the sprawling Bai Dinh Temple complex.

Day 8: Fly to Hue

The former imperial capital of the Nguyen dynasty. Explore the Imperial Citadel and Forbidden Purple City, visit the ornate royal tombs of Khai Dinh and Tu Duc, and cruise the Perfume River at sunset. The Dong Ba Market is a feast of local flavors.

Must-eat: Bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and banh khoai (crispy crepe).

Days 9-10: Hoi An

This UNESCO Ancient Town is Vietnam's most charming. Wander lantern-lit streets, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, get custom clothing made by legendary tailors, and cycle to Tra Que herb village. Take a basket boat ride in the coconut palm forest. At night, release a floating lantern on the river.

Days 11-12: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Fly to Vietnam's energetic southern hub. Visit the War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Basilica, and the Central Post Office. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels - the Viet Cong's vast underground network. The Ben Thanh Market and Binh Tay Market are perfect for souvenirs.

Must-eat: Banh mi (Vietnamese baguette sandwich), com tam (broken rice), and fresh spring rolls.

Days 13-14: Mekong Delta

Take a day trip or overnight to the Mekong Delta. Visit floating markets at Cai Rang or Cai Be, cruise narrow canals lined with coconut palms, visit fruit orchards and candy-making workshops. It is the perfect farewell to Vietnam's incredible diversity.

Budget Tips

• Internal flights (Hanoi to Hue, Da Nang to Saigon) are affordable on VietJet or Bamboo Airways - book early
• Street food is both the best and cheapest dining option ($1-3 per meal)
• Sleeper buses are comfortable alternatives to flights for budget travelers
• Grab (ride-hailing app) is your best friend for city transport