7 days in Vietnam are fine for travelers to make good itinerary to visit the country. With a week, travelers can visit certain parts of the country or take a quick trip to all interesting travel destinations in Vietnam
It might sound like a tight schedule for a country bursting with diversity, from the misty peaks of the north to the sun-soaked beaches of the south. But in our opinion, a week is enough to fall under Vietnam’s beauty. With an extra day compared to a Vietnam itinerary for 6 days, you can dive deeper into one region or weave together two, savoring the mix of ancient culture, jaw-dropping landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. This guide will give you some ideas of how a Vietnam itinerary in 7 days should be, where to go, what to do, and how long to stay, along with a cost breakdown. Take it as inspiration to craft a week-long adventure.
Why Choose 7 Days in Vietnam?
Vietnam’s long, S-shaped geography means distances add up. A flight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City takes two hours, while a train ride lasts over 30 hours. The extra day in a 7-day trip makes a difference, meaning more landscapes to see and more things to do in Vietnam. A 3-4 days in Vietnam usually covers one city and nearby areas, while 10 days in Vietnam can span the whole country. 7 days offers a balance, not too rushed but not too long.
A Vietnam itinerary in 7 days suits for:
- First-time visitors wanting a taste of Vietnam before a longer trip.
- Business travelers adding a short holiday to their off-time schedule.
- Families or couples seeking a meaningful getaway without taking much time off.
Many short-haul visitors choose 5-7 day trips, and the extra day in a 7-day plan gives you more room to explore or to take it slower. You can choose to focus on one region deeply or two with transfer flights to make the most of your week.
Suggested Vietnam itinerary for 7 days
There’s no perfect way to spend 7 days in Vietnam. The following options offer different experiences to suit your style, mixing culture, nature, and food. They’re ideas, not fixed plans, to inspire your trip.
Option 1: 7 days of cultural exploration in Northern Vietnam
Northern Vietnam offers historic cities and natural beauty. Start in Hanoi, the capital, where the Old Quarter’s narrow streets are named for old trades, like Hang Bac (making and selling silver jewelries) or Hang Ma Street (worship items and holiday decorations). Visit ancient temples and pagodas, reflecting Vietnamese people’s belief. Stop at a street stall for a bowl of pho or bun cha, then sip egg coffee at a coffee shop by Hoan Kiem Lake, watching locals weave through the city’s rhythm. Spend 2 days in Hanoi, and join a street food tour or a cyclo ride through Hanoi’s chaotic charm.
Then, head to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where limestone karsts rise from turquoise waters. A one-night cruise lets you kayak into hidden lagoons, climb to scenic viewpoints, and enjoy an outdoor diner of fresh seafood on board. The following days, extend your adventure for one more night on the cruise in Lan Ha Bay or add one day in Ninh Binh. Glide through rice fields on a sampan boat, passing caves and cliffs, or cycle to ancient temples like Bai Dinh.
Board the overnight train, stay in a comfortable 4-bed cabin and arrive in Sapa the next morning. You will discover the beauty of terraced fields, lush green valleys and majestic cliffs. Set off on a hiking trip to visit mountain villages, and stay overnight in a local family’s home or in a homestay to explore the life and culture of the ethnic minorities.
Mu Cang Chai rice terraces during the harvest season from September to October.
This itinerary is perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers wanting to discover the most iconic landscapes in Vietnam.
Extra ideas for your itinerary: Try a Hanoi cooking class, visit Sapa’s local markets, or trek to the Fansipan peak.
Option 2: Central Vietnam heritage in 7 days
Central Vietnam feels like a slower, warmer world, perfect for soaking up history and seaside vibes. Begin in Hue, the former imperial capital, where the Citadel’s grand gates and royal tombs along the Perfume River whisper stories of Vietnam’s dynasties. Spend a day to explore Hue and taste its unique cuisine, like delicate banh beo and savory bun bo Hue.
Next, head south to Hoi An, Vietnam’s most charming city. Stroll the streets of the Ancient Town, a UNESCO gem famous for its yellow-walled houses and red-tiled roofs. Browse the handicraft shops that reflect local traditions and visit street vendors where you can sample Cao Lau. At night, join the locals in releasing floating lanterns, a magical moment when the Thu Bon River is lit up. Spend another day in Hoi An taking a cooking class, cycling to An Bang Beach to enjoy seafood by the waves, or taking a basket boat tour through the coconut groves.
Wrap up in Da Nang, where modern flair meets sandy beaches. Visit the Dragon Bridge, where fire and water performances take place every week-end, or relax on My Khe Beach. The extra day in Da Nang lets you add a day trip to Ba Na Hills, a theme park perched on a mountaintop, and see the famous Golden Bridge held up by giant stone hands.
The Golden Bridge in Da Nang is famous for its unique shape and stunning panoramic views.
The route is ideal for travelers who want a mix of historical discovery and seaside relaxation.
Extra ideas for your itinerary: Take a Hue cyclo tour, join a Hoi An cooking class, or sip coffee at Da Nang’s seaside coffees.
Option 3: 7 days coastal vacation in Southern Vietnam
If you love vibrant cities, bold flavors, and tropical beaches, southern Vietnam is your spot. Start in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), a metropolis that never sleeps. Dive into the food scene: savor a hot bowl of hu tieu or crispy banh xeo at Ben Thanh Market, or fresh cocktails on a rooftop with city views. Admire the classic French colonial architecture at landmarks like the Notre Dame Basilica or the Central Post Office, carrying the city’s rich past. Explore dynamic nightlife on a motorbike tour and drive through narrow and hidden alley where you can find food stalls recommended by locals .
After 2 days in Saigon, head to the Mekong Delta for a day or overnight trip. Float through canals lined with coconut palms, visit the bustling Cai Rang floating market, or taste tropical fruits like mangosteen fresh from orchards. The extra day lets you add a unique stop, like to local villages and manufacturing facilities for a deeper cultural dive.
Fruit-selling boat at Cai Rang floating market.
Spend the remaining days on Phu Quoc Island, where white-sand beaches and turquoise waters offer pure relaxation. Snorkel coral reefs, wander night markets for grilled squid, or sip coconut juice as the sun sets over the Gulf of Thailand.
The itinerary suits travelers who love urban adventures and nightlife, foodies or those who love the beach and tropical tranquility.
Extra ideas for your itinerary: Join day tour in Cu Chi Tunnels, visit Binh Thuy ancient house, or explore the fish sauce production facility in Phu Quoc.
Option 4: Vietnam North to South in 7 days
Do you want to see Vietnam’s contrasts in one week? With smart planning and flights, it’s possible. Spend 4 days in the north: 2 days in Hanoi, exploring the Old Quarter’s ancient alleys and historical monuments, plus one night cruise in Halong Bay, kayaking through caves and watching sunrise over limestone karsts. Then, fly south to Ho Chi Minh City for 3 days. Dive into Saigon’s energy with a motorbike tour, visit the China Town, discover colonial landmarks, and taste its diverse street food. Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta’s lively floating markets and lush canals. The extra day gives you flexibility to visit traditional villages near Hanoi or a trip to Cu Chi Tunnels for historical insights.
This itinerary suits ambitious travelers craving variety and fascinating highlights. However, the Ha Long cruise will return to the port in the middle of the day, and the transfer to Hanoi and Noi Bai airport will take about 2-3 hours, followed by a flight to Ho Chi Minh City. This transfer will take up your sightseeing time and also requires careful booking to avoid missing your flight.
Cost & practical info
Vietnam itinerary in 7 days suits all budgets:
- Backpackers can spend $40-50 per day staying in hostels, eating street food, and using public transport like buses, taxis and metro.
- Mid-range travelers usually spend $70-100 per day, staying in boutique hotels, and get transfered by domestic flights, private car with driver and guided day trips.
- Luxury travelers spend more than $200 per day for resorts, private tours, and upscale dining.
Other expenses include domestic flights $60-120, a Halong Bay cruise $100-200 for a cabin, a Mekong boat trip $20-50, or a Hoi An cooking class for $30. Book early for peak seasons like Tet (Jan-Feb). ATMs are widespread, but carry small VND notes for markets. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but a small tip in restaurants is appreciated.
Travel tips for 7 days in Vietnam
Best time to visit
Weather and seasons in Vietnam varies by region, providing different sceneries. Spring (March–April) and autumn (September–November) are comfortable nationwide, with mild weather and less rain. Summer heats up the north but is great for central and southern beaches. Winter cools Hanoi and Sapa (bring a jacket), while the south stays warm. Watch for Hue’s rainy season (Oct-Nov) or Phu Quoc’s dry months (Dec-April) for ideal beach time.
Bai Dai beach on Phu Quoc Island.
Getting around Vietnam in 7 days
With 7 days in Vietnam, efficiency matters. Domestic flights (Hanoi-Da Nang, Da Nang-Ho Chi Minh City) cost $70–120 USD and save time. For shorter hops, like Hue to Hoi An or Hanoi to Sapa, trains or private cars are scenic and comfy. Avoid overnight buses; they’re often cramped. Our Vietnam tour packages always include private car service with driver, ensuring you are picked up on time and can be flexible during the journey.
Food & cultural insights
Vietnam’s cuisine is as diverse as its landscapes. In the north, slurp pho or bun cha (grilled pork noodles). Central Vietnam offers mi Quang and cao lau noodles. The south brings crispy banh xeo, fresh spring rolls, and sweet fruits in the Mekong Delta like mangoes or dragonfruits. Join a cooking class or street food tour for a fun, hands-on experience.
Cultural etiquette is simple: dress modestly at temples (cover shoulders and knees), remove shoes in homes, and try to use both hands when giving or receiving items. Bargaining is expected in markets: you can start at 60% of the price and settle around 80%. Learn “xin chào” (hello) to warm up locals.
For deeper insights and local experiences about traveling in Vietnam, see our detailed Travel to Vietnam 2026 guide.
Local experts’ opinion about 7 days in Vietnam
7 days in Vietnam is a bit different from a 6 day-itinerary. While 6 days requires tighter choices, 7 days lets you combine destinations or slow down for cultural immersion. That extra day lets you travel without rushing or free time between destinations, maybe a quiet moment by a river or an extra stop to soak in the scenery. Whichever path you choose, your week will feel exciting and refreshing. Each region offers something special: Hanoi’s ancient charm, Hoi An’s glowing lanterns, Saigon’s vibrant pulse, or Phu Quoc’s tranquil beaches. You might even leave planning your returning trip to discover more about Vietnam.
Do you want to experience Vietnam in just 7 days? Explore our customizable tours in Vietnam and let us help you plan your next trip. Choose your travel route, make a to-do checklist, and prepare to create lasting memories in Vietnam.
