5 days in Vietnam

With 5 days in Vietnam – whether in Hanoi, Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City – you can dive into the vibrant North, historic Central, or dynamic South.

Would you like us to send other Vietnam tour itineraries or suggestions? Please let us know or customize your Vietnam tour.

Best 3 itineraries

5 Days in Northern Vietnam: Culture, Mountains & Ha Long Bay

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi, explore the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and enjoy a traditional water puppet show.

Day 2: Full-day Hanoi city tour with Old Quarter area, Temple of Literature, Ethnology Museum.

Day 3: Depart for Ha Long Bay, overnight on a cruise among limestone karsts.

Day 4: Morning cruise, return to Hanoi.

Day 5: Day trip to Ninh Binh (Trang An, Tam Coc, Mua Cave) or free time before departure.

5 days in Vietnam: programs and budgets

5 Days in Central Vietnam: Heritage & Beaches

Day 1: Arrival in Da Nang, transfer to Hoi An, explore the ancient town.

Day 2: Cooking class or cycling tour to nearby villages, visit An Bang beach.

Day 3: Visit My Son Sanctuary, return to Da Nang.

Day 4: Day trip to Hue via Hai Van Pass, explore the Imperial City and Perfume River.

Day 5: Visit tombs or local markets in Hue, then transfer back or depart from Da Nang.

5 Days in Southern Vietnam: City Life & Mekong Charm

Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, visit War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market.

Day 2: Explore Cu Chi Tunnels and Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh.

Day 3: Travel to Mekong Delta (My Tho or Ben Tre), boat trip and local experience.

Day 4: Overnight in Can Tho, visit floating market in the morning.

Day 5: Return to Ho Chi Minh City for shopping or leisure before departure.

Turtle Tower in Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi

Hanoi and the North

If you’re planning to visit Northern Vietnam, consider booking your flight to Noi Bai International Airport. This region offers plenty of adventure, and our Northern Explorer itineraries are designed to highlight the best of Vietnam in a short, memorable trip.

Hanoi: Central Hanoi is located about 40 kilometers from Noi Bai International Airport. As Vietnam’s ancient capital, the city is renowned for its rich culture and exquisite street food. First-time visitors will find a wealth of must-see attractions, including fascinating museums and historic landmarks that showcase the heritage of the Vietnamese people. Highlights include the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum, the One-Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, the Opera House and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Ha Long Bay: Just 180 KM from Hanoi, Ha Long Bay is a must-visit destination, ideal for either a 1-day, 2-day or 3-day cruise.

A 1-day tour departs around 8:00 AM from Hanoi, with a 3.5-hour drive to the bay. The boat sets off at noon for a 4-hour cruise as a Ha Long bay daily tour, including a seafood lunch and a visit to Heaven Palace Cave (Dong Thien Cung). You’ll return to Hanoi by around 8:00 PM.

The 2-day (or 3-day) cruise is the more popular option, offering a night on board and visits to iconic sites like the Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot) and Titop Island, known for panoramic views and a scenic beach. Activities include kayaking, swimming (March-October), and exploring limestone caves. After disembarkation on day two, you’ll be transferred back to Hanoi.

Mai Chau: Located about 150 km from Hanoi, Mai Chau is a peaceful town known for its stunning mountain scenery and the simple, authentic lifestyle of its villagers. An overnight stay offers a true countryside experience through a local homestay, where your host family provides dinner and breakfast, giving you a chance to connect and immerse yourself in their way of life. Mai Chau is ideal for a 1- or 2-day visit.

A village in Mai Chau

Sapa: Located in the stunning northwest mountains, Sapa is one of Vietnam’s most picturesque towns, about 400 KM from Hanoi. The best way to reach Sapa is by taking an overnight train, which departs from Hanoi between 8:00–10:00 PM and arrives early the next morning. This allows travelers to rest during the journey and enjoy more time exploring the region’s terraced rice fields, minority villages, and breathtaking landscapes.

Ninh Binh: Just 90 KM from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is a top destination known for its rich history and natural beauty. Highlights include the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Tam Coc Grottos, Bich Dong Pagoda, Bai Dinh Pagoda – the largest in Southeast Asia – Trang An Landscape Complex, and Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s oldest national park. It’s a perfect choice for a cultural and scenic day trip or a short overnight stay.

Here are some suggested itineraries for your reference:

Itinerary 1: Northern Vietnam – Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival

Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital. Enjoy a relaxing evening exploring the Old Quarter or tasting local street food.

Day 2: Halong Bay Cruise

Cruise through Halong Bay’s stunning limestone karsts. Visit a cave, kayak or swim, and enjoy sunset on board with an overnight stay.

Day 3: Return to Hanoi, Night Train to Sapa

Disembark in the morning. Return to Hanoi by road. Relax or explore before boarding the night train to Sapa.

Day 4: Sapa Exploration

Discover Sapa’s ethnic culture. Visit Lao Chai and Ta Van villages, walk among rice terraces, and meet H’mong locals.

Day 5: Sapa Villages, Night Train to Hanoi

Explore more remote villages like Cat Cat or Giang Ta Chai. Enjoy mountain views before taking the night train back to Hanoi.

Children in the Northern mountainous area

Itinerary 2: Northern Vietnam – Hanoi, Halong Bay, Mai Chau, Ninh Binh

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival

Arrive in Hanoi. Explore the Old Quarter, visit Hoan Kiem Lake, or enjoy a traditional water puppet show.

Day 2: Halong Bay Cruise

Board a boat to cruise Halong Bay. Visit caves, kayak around islets, and enjoy seafood on board with a night on the bay.

Day 3: Return to Hanoi

Return to Hanoi from Halong. Free time in the city to visit the Temple of Literature or explore local markets.

Day 4: Mai Chau day trip

Travel to Mai Chau, a valley surrounded by mountains. Visit Thai ethnic villages, bike through rice fields, and enjoy local food.

Day 5: Ninh Binh day trip

Head to Ninh Binh. Explore Hoa Lu ancient capital, take a sampan ride in Tam Coc or Trang An, and visit Bich Dong Pagoda then transfer to airport for your ongoing flight.

See more for our North Vietnam tours

Da Nang and the Central

Book your flight directly to Hue or Da Nang – or fly into Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, and we’ll arrange a connecting flight to Central Vietnam to begin your tour.

Da Nang: Approximately a 1-hour flight from Hanoi or 1 hour and 10 minutes from Ho Chi Minh City.
Da Nang is a vibrant coastal city in central Vietnam, known for its modern infrastructure and beautiful beaches. It is home to an international airport, making it a convenient gateway to explore two of Vietnam’s most treasured heritage sites – Hoi An and Hue, both located just a short drive away.

Hoi An: Located 25km south of Da Nang, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its well-preserved ancient town, featuring architecture influenced by Japanese, Chinese, and Thai styles. Nearby, you can visit a pottery village, silk farm, or enjoy a bike ride to Tra Que Village for hands-on farming experiences. Hoi An is also known for its beautiful beaches – perfect for an afternoon of sunbathing and relaxing at beachfront cafes.

Hoi An River

My Son – 50 km west of Hoi An – is a remarkable archaeological site showcasing the remnants of the ancient Champa civilization. Though now weathered and partially in ruins, its red-brick towers, courtyards, and pathways still offer a glimpse into the spiritual and architectural heritage of a once-great culture.

Hue – 150 km north of Da Nang – Famous for its imperial past, Hue is home to the ancient Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. Visitors can explore the Citadel’s fortified walls and historic buildings, as well as the nearby Thien Mu Pagoda and the elaborate tombs of seven Nguyen Dynasty emperors.

Quang Binh – Now emerging as a key destination, Quang Binh is known for Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, recognized by UNESCO in 2003. The park features spectacular limestone karsts and some of the world’s most extraordinary caves, including Son Doong – the largest cave on Earth.

Kon Tum – Kon Tum offers an off-the-beaten-path experience in the Central Highlands. Its charm lies in its authenticity and calm atmosphere. Highlights include a century-old wooden cathedral and the historic Bishop’s House, along with opportunities to visit nearby ethnic minority villages.

Pleiku remains largely untouched by mass tourism, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat. Surrounded by scenic landscapes, the city offers a relaxed pace, with modest temples, local markets, and a gateway to exploring traditional highland life.

Buon Ma Thuot: Famed for its coffee plantations and natural beauty, Buon Ma Thuot is a haven for nature lovers. The area features stunning waterfalls, forest trails, and access to Yok Don National Park. It’s perfect for those seeking a quiet escape into Vietnam’s rural countryside.

Elephant Riding, in Buon Ma Thuot

Based on the available time and highlights mentioned above, here are some suggested itineraries to consider:

Itinerary 1: Central Vietnam – Da Nang, Hoi An, My Son, Hue

Day 1: Da Nang Arrival – Hoi An
Arrive in Da Nang, transfer to Hoi An. Stroll the lantern-lit Old Town, visit the Japanese Bridge, and explore local markets.

Day 2: Hoi An
Discover Hoi An’s heritage with visits to ancient houses, pagodas, and tailor shops. Relax at An Bang Beach or join a cooking class.

Day 3: My Son Sanctuary
Take a half-day trip to the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient Cham temples set in lush surroundings.

Day 4: Hoi An – Hue
Drive via the scenic Hai Van Pass. Visit the Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, and Dong Ba Market in Hue.

Day 5: Departure
Free time until transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Itinerary 2: Central Highlands – Hoi An to Buon Ma Thuot

Day 1: Da Nang Arrival – Hoi An
Arrive in Da Nang and transfer to Hoi An. Explore the ancient town’s charming streets, riverside cafes, and colorful night market.

Day 2: Hoi An – Kon Tum
Depart for Kon Tum via scenic countryside. Visit local ethnic villages, wooden churches, and the historic Bishop’s House.

Day 3: Kon Tum – Pleiku
Travel to Pleiku, stopping to visit the Sea Lake (T’Nung), local coffee plantations, and minority villages along the way.

Day 4: Pleiku – Buon Ma Thuot
Journey to Buon Ma Thuot. Visit Dray Nur waterfall, ethnic museums, and experience the unique culture of Vietnam’s Central Highlands.

Day 5: Departure
Free time until transfer to the airport for your departure.

See more for other options at our tours in center of Vietnam area: Central Vietnam tours

Ho Chi Minh City and the South

Upon arrival to Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, we’ll guide you on an unforgettable journey through Vietnam’s vibrant southern region.

– Ho Chi Minh City: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is host to many popular attractions – most of which are centrally located in District 1 which is great for tourists as it means you can get to see all of them in just a few short days. The most visited include: Notre Dame Cathedral, The War Remnants Museum, Central Post Office, Ben Thanh Market, Independence Palace and many others.

Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral

– Cu Chi Tunnels: 60KM from Ho Chi Minh City. A morning drive will take you to visit the famous Cu Chi tunnels, located 60km to the northwest of Ho Chi Minh’s city center. The tunnels compose a twisting maze of underground passages, chambers, rooms and booby traps used by the Vietminh. Upon arrival, you will watch a short introductory video on the tunnels construction before having the opportunity to explore the maze yourself, portions of which have now been widened to accommodate modern day visitors.

– Cai Be floating market: This fascinating arrangement of boats lined along the river is host to the colorful Cai Rang floating market, a congregation of sampans from all provinces of the Mekong Delta laden with a rainbow of tropical fruits and fresh vegetables.

– Can Tho: Mekong Delta – 160km South West of Ho Chi Minh City. Can Tho is the base from which your Mekong River cruise will depart. From here you have easy access to many top attractions around the Mekong Rivers – and your cruise will make a stop at each one.

– Chau Doc: 250km West of Ho Chi Minh City. This small town acts as a crossroads for goods to and from nearby Cambodia. A stroll around the market on any morning will surprise you with the variety of goods for sale. Many Temples and floating villages make up the other things to see for visitors wanting to gain an insight in to the local culture. The nearby ‘Sam Hill’ now attracts many visitors – comfortably climbable at 750ft it is the only high ground in the region, therefore offering fantastic panoramic views across the countryside.

Da Lat is one of Vietnam’s most beloved honeymoon destinations. Nestled among pine-covered mountains, the city is lush with greenery and known as the “flower capital of Vietnam.” With its cool, temperate climate year-round, Da Lat offers scenic spots like Lam Ty Ni Pagoda – reachable by cable car with stunning views – Bao Dai’s Summer Palace, Tuyen Lam Lake, and a charming old railway station with an 8 km track still in use.

Nha Trang is a coastal gem famous for its long, inviting beach and vibrant watersports scene. Popular activities include parasailing, jet skiing, surfing, and visiting the family-friendly water park.

Here are some suggested itineraries:

Itinerary 1: Southern Vietnam – Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Chau Doc

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City Arrival
Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City. Visit Ben Thanh Market, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the War Remnants Museum if time permits.

Day 2: HCMC – Cu Chi Tunnels
Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast underground network used during wartime. Return to HCMC for a city tour or free time.

Day 3: HCMC – Can Tho
Drive to the Mekong Delta. Stop at Cai Be or Vinh Long for a boat trip. Continue to Can Tho and explore the riverside.

Day 4: Can Tho – Chau Doc
Visit the famous Cai Rang floating market. Continue to Chau Doc and explore Sam Mountain, temples, and Cham villages.

Day 5: Chau Doc – HCMC – Departure
Return to Ho Chi Minh City for your flight. Optional visit to a local market or temple en route.

Itinerary 2: Southern Vietnam – Ho Chi Minh City, Dalat, Nha Trang

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City Arrival
Arrive in HCMC. Depending on your arrival time, explore historic landmarks or enjoy the city’s vibrant street food scene.

Day 2: HCMC – Dalat (Flight)
Fly to Dalat, the romantic highland city. Visit Bao Dai Palace, Xuan Huong Lake, and Dalat Market.

Day 3: Dalat – Nha Trang
Enjoy the scenic drive to Nha Trang. Stop at a tea plantation or a local village along the way.

Day 4: Nha Trang
Relax on Nha Trang’s beaches, visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers, or take a boat trip to nearby islands.

Day 5: Departure
Free time until transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

See more for our South Vietnam tours

Budgets for 5 days

• 3 star hotels: 300 to 450 $US/ person for double/ twin sharing
• 4 star hotels: 450 – 650 $US/ person for double/ twin sharing
• 5 star hotels: 700 – 950 $US/ person for double/ twin sharing
• Flight from 60$US/ 1 way (North/ South to Central), from 100$US/ 1 way North to South or vice versa

Recommended tour programs

All these tours can be customized to fit your demands

• Explore The Highland of Southern Vietnam
• Trekking Cat Ba National Park and Lan Ha Bay Kayaking Tour
• Danang Beach Break
• Central Vietnam Stopover
• Beach and Central Highland of Vietnam Stopover
• Southern Vietnam Experience
• Central Vietnam With World Heritage
• Best of North Vietnam tour
• Adventurous Tour to Ha Giang – Cao Bang – Lang Son

Struggle to plan a 5-day trip to Vietnam? As always, we can assist in any part of your holiday – whether it be a guide to help you explore the city or just a phone call to our office with a question or need assistance.