Why Traveling to Vietnam is worth it- 7 Day Northern Vietnam Travel Guide & Tips

A Complete 7 Days Vietnam Trip Itinerary

Discover the perfect blend of culture, history, landscapes, and vibrant city life with this 7-day Vietnam itinerary. From Hanoi’s ancient charm to Ha Long Bay’s emerald waters and Ho Chi Minh City’s energetic streets, every day promises a new experience you’ll never forget. Planning a solo trip? Here’s a helpful guide on female solo travel in Vietnam to keep your journey safe, smooth, and empowering.

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – Old Quarter, Local Food & Night Market

Begin your Vietnam journey in Hanoi, the cultural heart of the country.
Stroll through the charming Old Quarter, taste iconic dishes like pho and banh mi, and unwind by Hoan Kiem Lake.
End your day exploring the lively Night Market filled with food, souvenirs, and music.

Popular Attractions

Dong Xuan Market: Perfect for souvenirs and street food.
Hoan Kiem Lake: A serene spot in the heart of the city.
Temple of Literature: A historic site dedicated to scholars.

Travelling with kids? Don’t miss this family-friendly Vietnam travel itinerary packed with easy routes and child-friendly attractions.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour – History, Architecture & Culture

Discover Hanoi’s rich heritage with visits to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and the iconic Temple of Literature.
In the evening, enjoy the famous Water Puppet Show, followed by a leisurely walk through the French Quarter’s colonial lanes.

Popular Attractions

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A symbol of Vietnam’s resilience.
One Pillar Pagoda: An architectural marvel.
Water Puppet Theatre: A cultural must-see.

Love thrill-filled days? Explore the best adventure and outdoor experiences in Vietnam for trekking, caving, and more.

Day 3: Ha Long Bay Cruise – Caves, Kayaking & Sunset Views

Embark on a scenic cruise through the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, surrounded by limestone cliffs and emerald waters.
Explore Sung Sot Cave, go kayaking through hidden lagoons, and enjoy a peaceful sunset from the cruise deck.
Optional: Join a cooking class or try squid fishing at night.

Popular Attractions

Sung Sot Cave: A stunning cave with unique formations.
Ti Top Island: Perfect for swimming and hiking.
Luon Cave: A serene lagoon accessible by kayak.

Day 4: Ninh Binh Day Trip – Nature, Temples & Countryside

Experience Vietnam’s countryside charm in Ninh Binh, often called “Ha Long Bay on Land.”
Take a boat ride through the stunning Trang An Grottoes, visit the grand Bai Dinh Pagoda, and cycle around Tam Coc’s rice fields.
Return to Hanoi in the evening.

Popular Attractions

Trang An Grottoes: A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bai Dinh Pagoda: A spiritual and architectural wonder.
Tam Coc: Famous for its scenic boat rides.

If you’re still planning your route, start with this complete Vietnam travel guide to understand the best places, tips, and travel styles.

Day 5: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City – Markets, Architecture & Nightlife

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City and explore its iconic attractions like the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and the bustling Ben Thanh Market.
Spend your evening at Bui Vien Street, famous for nightlife, food, and music.

Popular Attractions

Notre-Dame Cathedral: A historic landmark.
Central Post Office: A beautiful example of French architecture.
Ben Thanh Market: A bustling hub for shopping and food.

Day 6: Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta – History & River Life

Step back in time at the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network used during the Vietnam War.
Later, cruise through the Mekong Delta, visiting floating markets, fruit orchards, and rural villages.
Enjoy a fresh traditional lunch along the riverside.

Popular Attractions

Cu Chi Tunnels: A historical must-see.
Cai Be Floating Market: A vibrant market on the water.
Vinh Trang Pagoda: A beautiful Buddhist temple.

Day 7: Chill, Shop & Departure

Spend your final morning relaxing at a local cafe or exploring peaceful temples like the Jade Emperor Pagoda.
Grab last-minute souvenirs from Ben Thanh Market before heading to the airport.
Fly back home with unforgettable memories of Vietnam’s cities, landscapes, food, and culture.

Popular Attractions

Jade Emperor Pagoda: A serene spiritual site.
Saigon Skydeck: For panoramic city views.
Ben Thanh Market: Perfect for last-minute souvenirs.

What is the Best Time to Plan Your 7 Days Vietnam Trip?

Peak Season (November to April)

This is the best time to visit Vietnam, with cool, dry, and pleasant weather ideal for sightseeing, island trips, Ha Long Bay cruises, city tours, and cultural experiences. Major festivals like Tet (Lunar New Year) add vibrant colors, traditional performances, and unique food experiences, making your visit even more memorable.
Because this period attracts the highest number of tourists, accommodations, flights, and tours get booked quickly. Prices are higher, and popular places can feel crowded, so advance planning is essential. Still, the stable weather and festive atmosphere make it perfect for first-time visitors and families.

Shoulder Seasons (May to June and October)

These months offer a balanced mix of warm weather, moderate prices, and manageable crowds. May–June is great for beaches like Da Nang and Phu Quoc, while October brings cooler weather ideal for Sapa trekking or exploring Hanoi and Ha Long Bay. Short rains may occur but rarely disrupt the day.
Travelers benefit from more availability in hotels and flights, along with better deals compared to the peak season. The weather remains comfortable enough for sightseeing, photography, and outdoor activities, making this a sweet spot for those wanting good weather without high-season rush.

Low Season (July to September)

Vietnam’s low season comes with tropical rains, especially in the north and central regions. Despite this, the scenery becomes lush and vibrant, and the south often experiences shorter showers, leaving plenty of sightseeing opportunities around Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and nearby islands.
With the fewest tourists and the lowest prices of the year, this season is great for budget travelers and those who enjoy peaceful, crowd-free experiences. Indoor attractions, food tours, markets, cafés, and museums remain fully enjoyable, making it a rewarding time to explore Vietnam at your own pace.

Confused about weather? Check out the best time to visit Vietnam so you can plan your trip around the ideal season.

Vietnam Travel Tips

Use the Grab app for easy and affordable transport in cities.
Carry Vietnamese Dong (VND); cash is essential for local markets and small vendors.
Dress modestly when visiting temples, pagodas, and government buildings.
Stay hydrated; Vietnam's climate can be hot and humid, especially in the south.
Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases like "Xin Chào" (Hello) and "Cảm ơn" (Thank you).
Respect local customs, such as removing your shoes before entering a home and not public displays of affection.
Keep mosquito repellent handy, particularly in rural and coastal areas.
Try street food but choose busy stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness.
Public transport is reliable; trains are a scenic way to travel long distances along the coast.
Always carry a light scarf or jacket; air conditioning on buses and in buildings can be very strong.