Two weeks in Vietnam (or three): Our itinerary from north to south

Planning a trip to Vietnam and wondering if two weeks is enough? We travelled from north to south with a packed itinerary that could easily be stretched to three weeks – or even more! Honestly, you could spend a month exploring Vietnam and still have plenty left to see. But we didn’t have that luxury, so we made the most of the time we had. This article gives you a quick overview of our itinerary, and you can click on the destination names for more detailed insights and tips as I upload them to the blog over the next few weeks. I’ve added at the end what I’d do differently and where I’d stay longer to turn it into a three-week itinerary.

Organising a two-week trip to Vietnam

A quick note: Scams involving hotels and tours can happen in Vietnam, which is why one of the reasons why we chose a trusted local travel agent to save time in planning our trip. This article is based on our personal experience, research and the information available at the time of our trip. Things may have changed since our visit, and I can’t take responsibility for any issues you might encounter, including scams. Always check recent reviews and trust your instincts if something doesn’t feel right or seems too good to be true. We paid for everything ourselves and never mentioned that we would write about it, so you can trust this is honest feedback. Some links in the article are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a booking through them, at no extra cost to you.

Accommodations

In this article, I’ll share the accommodations we stayed at during our Vietnam trip, with links directly to the booking sites. Some were amazing, others just average – but none were bad. For more on how I found each place, check out my other article, where I review each accommodation in detail.

Do you need a SIM card for your trip to Vietnam? We find that when travelling abroad, nothing beats the ease of setting up and topping up an eSIM. It’s very convenient as you can plan ahead and don’t waste time during your trip visiting a shop. Plus, you can say goodbye to the anxiety of risking your precious home SIM card. We use Airalo* and have always been satisfied with their service. You can check your phone compatibility here*.

Booking tours and transfers

While we kept reading that it’s cheap and easy to book tours and transfers directly when you’re in Vietnam, we found it too stressful not having everything organised beforehand, especially with tight timing. Two weeks in Vietnam isn’t long, so you don’t want to waste time figuring things out once you’re there.

If we hadn’t used a local travel agent to plan our itinerary, we probably still would have booked most tours in advance through platforms like GetYourGuide* to avoid last-minute planning and make sure we didn’t miss out on key experiences. You can also contact local guides and drivers directly on WhatsApp, but we were worried about getting scammed or ghosted. In the end, you can’t have it all – time, cheap options, ease of planning and peace of mind – so we chose what worked best for us!

From north to south or south to north?

We started our trip in the north because we arrived in Vietnam in mid-April, which seemed to be one of the best times to visit Ha Giang. There’s less risk of rain compared to May, which matters when you’re planning a motorbike tour! That said, depending on your travel dates, you might consider going from south to north instead. The landscapes in the north are incredibly dramatic, so ending your trip there can make it feel like a stunning finale.

If your international flight lands in Ho Chi Minh City, be aware that customs queues can be long, sometimes over 1.5 hours. Plus, our flight was delayed, so we were relieved to have plenty of time before our domestic connection to Hanoi. Booking a fast-track immigration* could help reduce stress if you’re catching a domestic flight straight after landing. On the way back, I was glad we stayed in Ho Chi Minh City the night before our departure, as domestic flights are often delayed or cancelled, and staying nearby made things much less stressful.

Northern Vietnam – Hanoi, lowlands and valleys (4 days)

Day 1: Hanoi (free visit)

We arrived in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital. It can feel overwhelming at first, but it’s a great city to wander around. We explored the Old Quarter, sampled street food (we booked a tour* to be more at ease on our first night!) and got used to the buzz of scooters everywhere. We spent our first night in Vietnam in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter (La Passion Classic Hotel).

Day 2: Ninh Binh, the “Terrestrial Halong Bay” (group tour)

We joined a group day tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. It included the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, a boat ride through limestone caves in Trang An, and a climb to the viewpoint at Mua Cave. While these places were very popular and felt crowded, the views are stunning and I’m glad we visited, especially Trang An. We stayed the night in Tam Coc (Tam Coc Holiday Hotel & Villa*) but liked exploring Hoa Lu in the evening.

Trying to choose between Ninh Binh and Sapa? They offer very different experiences, and it’s not always possible to do both. Here’s my take on Ninh Binh vs Sapa to help you plan.

Day 3: Pu Luong Nature Reserve (private tour)

A private guide picked us up in Ninh Binh to go further west to Pu Luong. We visited a village with a traditional stilt house, played games (and karaoke!) with locals, and enjoyed bamboo rafting before stopping at Hieu Waterfall on our way to Don Village for the night (Pu Luong Boutique Garden* – one of the best hotels we stayed at!). I wish we’d had more time there; the lush rice fields with mountain backdrops and hardly any tourists made it a peaceful spot.

Day 4: Doi Cave (private tour)

We spent the morning at the impressive Doi Cave (also known as Bat Cave) and passed through a lovely village on the way. In the afternoon, we returned to Hanoi for the night (Classy Holiday Hotel & Spa*). It was a weekend, so the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake area was bustling with street performances and markets, and many nearby streets were pedestrian-only; we loved the atmosphere.

Northern Vietnam – Sapa region (2 days)

Day 5: Sapa – Ma Tra and Ta Phin villages (private tour)

Many travellers take an overnight bus from Hanoi to Sapa, which is faster than the train-plus-bus combo. It’s a great budget option (cheap and saves a night’s accommodation), but we didn’t want to risk being too tired to enjoy the experience in Sapa region. Even with comfortable sleeper buses offering private cabins, the roads can be rough and Vietnamese driving totally nerve-wracking, so we doubted we’d sleep well.

Instead, we took a morning limousine bus to Sapa and started exploring right after lunch. Our local H’Mong guide led us on a light trek through the scenic villages of Ma Tra and Ta Phin, surrounded by terraced rice fields. It was a great way to learn more about the H’Mong and Dao cultures. We spent the night in Tả Van (at Sapa Plum Eco House*; we had initially considered at Ap Retreat – Ta Van’s Heel, but it was unfortunately booked out).

We deliberately avoided central Sapa, which was developed for tourism and doesn’t have the authenticity we were after. Many popular attractions like the Fansipan Legend Cable Car Station* and Cat Cat Village* are often overcrowded and can feel too commercial. If you have time and are up for the challenge, you might consider climbing Fansipan*, Vietnam’s highest peak, the hard way. It wasn’t an option for us due to my recent knee surgery.

Day 6: Sapa – Lao Chai, Tả Van and H’Mong Batik workshop (private tour)

We spent another day trekking through the Muong Hoa Valley, this time to Lao Chai. We’d never seen anything like the terraced rice fields carved into the hills. Even without the rice at its peak, the landscape was beautiful and a clear reminder of the effort it takes to farm in a place like this. Arriving in Lao Chai felt a bit too busy, with locals approaching tourists, even at restaurants, to sell souvenirs. It’s worth choosing carefully, as the stalls offer a mix of local products and items from other parts of Vietnam.

In the afternoon, we joined a H’Mong Batik workshop*, which makes great souvenirs, followed by a traditional Red Dao herbal bath made from medicinal plants and a delicious local dinner. We spent a second night in Ta Van.

Sustainable travel tip: Joining activities run by local communities (like the H’Mong Batik workshop, but there are other traditional craft workshops) helps preserve cultural heritage in the region and creates direct income for families. We always learn a lot from experiences with locals; they make our trips more special.

Northern Vietnam – Ha Giang Loop (4 days)

Not enough time for both Sapa and Ha Giang? We were lucky to fit in both, but if you have to choose, this comparison might help you decide which one to prioritise: Sapa vs Ha Giang.

Day 7: Transfer to Ha Giang and the Chinese border

You can save both time and money by taking an overnight bus from Sapa to Ha Giang (usually departs around 7 pm and arrives around 2 am so you can finish your night in a dorm). Some tours like this one* are designed to align with that schedule. We considered it but felt it would have been too exhausting!

So we travelled by bus to Ha Giang in the morning. For the Ha Giang loop, we had the choice between travelling by car or riding motorbikes. We chose the motorbike option (as passengers only). It turned out to be a fantastic decision as it allowed us to fully take in the spectacular mountain views without worrying about the road or being stuck with limited visibility from a car window or a passenger next to you. But it’s not for everyone.

After arriving in Ha Giang City in the early afternoon, we headed straight towards the Chinese border, stopped for a refreshing dip at a waterfall, and ended the day with panoramic sunset views from Nui Cam Mountain. We stayed overnight in Ha Giang City (Silk River Hotel Ha Giang*).

Day 8: Ha Giang loop – Quan Ba, Dong Van (group tour)

We kicked off our Ha Giang loop group tour (organised by OHG Travel – Ha Giang Open Tour*) with a ride through stunning mountain passes (Bac Sum, Heaven’s Gate in Quan Ba, and the winding Tham Ma Pass) and visited the Hmong King’s Palace. We spent the night in Dong Van (Dongvan Ville Du H’Mong Hotel), and were lucky to catch a local festival that brought the town to life with music and colour, along with a total blackout!

Day 9: Ha Giang loop – Lung Cu, Lo Lo Chai Village, Ma Pi Leng Pass and Nho Que River (group tour)

We travelled north to Lung Cu, Vietnam’s northernmost point, and explored the nearby charming Lo Lo Chai village. We crossed the dramatic Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of the most iconic stretches of the Ha Giang loop. In the afternoon, we cruised the emerald waters of the Nho Que River before spending the night in a quiet homestay in Meo Vac (Cao Nguyen Da).

Day 10: Return to Hanoi

After breakfast, we made our way back to Ha Giang City. Unfortunately, the weather turned, and we rode through rain and fog most of the way and felt lucky we had good weather on our first two days. We caught an afternoon bus to Hanoi and arrived late at night after a long day of travel.

Northern Vietnam – Halong Bay/Bai Tu Long (2 days)

Day 11: Bai Tu Long Bay cruise

We left Hanoi in the morning and headed to the coast to board a cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay, a quieter and less touristy alternative to the famous Halong Bay. The landscapes were just as stunning, and we loved kayaking in peaceful lagoons surrounded by limestone karsts. We spent the night on board (Swan Cruises Halong*), which was a great way to unwind after the Ha Giang loop.

Short on time? If you’re wondering if you should choose between Ninh Binh or Halong Bay, this comparison may help!

Day 12: End of cruise and flight to Hoi An

After an early wake-up to visit the Thien Canh Son cave, we disembarked around midday. A transfer took us back to our hotel in Hanoi to collect our luggage (and clean clothes as we had asked for laundry!), then on to the airport for an evening flight to Da Nang. From there, we continued by car to Hoi An. We chose to skip Da Nang, which is more famous for its beaches and theme parks. We spent the first of three nights in Hoi An (Kiman Hoi An Hotel*).

Central Vietnam (3 days)

Not sure whether to visit Hue or Hoi An and don’t have time for both? I’ve created a detailed comparison to help you choose the right one for your itinerary.

Day 13: Basket boat ride and Hoi An Ancient Town

We started the day with a visit to the coconut groves for a ride in a traditional round basket boat. While it’s a popular tourist activity, we didn’t find it very authentic or enjoyable, and there was pressure to tip. The afternoon was much more rewarding: we explored Hoi An’s UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, took part in workshops to learn how to make our own lanterns and Vietnamese coffees, and browsed the many tailor shops the town is famous for. In the evening, the Ancient Town and river lit up with colourful lanterns and had a lively atmosphere – beautiful, though very crowded.

Hoi An also has a beach, which some travellers enjoy for relaxing or catching a break from sightseeing. We chose not to spend time at the beach during this trip, as our focus was more on culture and landscapes.

Day 14: Tra Que village cycling tour and Thanh Ha Pottery Village

Tri from Spring Onion Family Tour* picked us up at our hotel with bicycles to take us to the local market and then through golden rice fields to Tra Que village, where we took part in a fun and tasty cooking class. In the afternoon, we visited Thanh Ha Pottery Village by ourselves before returning to Hoi An to pick up our tailor-made clothes, attend the Memories Show*, and spend our final night at Kiman Hoi An Hotel*.

If you’re short on time and try to fit it all in one day, I’d recommend cycling to Tra Que village and focusing on Hoi An’s Ancient Town. We wouldn’t do the basket boat ride again, and the pottery village wasn’t a highlight for us.

Day 15: Hue

We travelled from Hoi An to Hue with a guided tour, following the coastal route over the Hai Van Pass. Once in Hue, we visited the elaborately decorated Khai Dinh Tomb, stopped at the peaceful Thien Mu Pagoda along the Perfume River and explored the vast grounds of the Imperial Citadel. The Hue Historic Citadel is a walled fortress that was the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, Vietnam’s last dynastic rule, from 1802 to 1945. We spent the night in Hue (Romance Hotel*).

South Vietnam (3 days)

Day 16: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City and city tour (private)

We flew from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City in the morning and jumped straight into the buzz with a private scooter tour* to discover local neighbourhoods and hidden spots you wouldn’t usually see. We found it interesting to learn more about South Vietnam when its president was supported by the Americans, and the important figure Thich Quang Duc.

Later, we walked around the lively District 1, stopping by the Saigon River and the Ho Chi Minh statue in front of the colonial-style city hall for our first of three nights in Ho Chi Minh City (GK Central Hotel*).

Day 17: Ho Chi Minh City tour and Cu Chi Tunnels (group tour)

We joined a group tour* to explore the city’s main landmarks, including the Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral (in renovations) and Central Post Office. In the afternoon, we headed to the Cu Chi Tunnels – a vast underground network used during the Vietnam War. You can crawl through a section of the tunnels (not recommended if you’re claustrophobic!).

That night, we joined a second scooter tour* to experience local street food and take in the beautiful city skyline.

Day 18: Mekong Delta excursion

On our last full day, we took a private tour of the Mekong Delta. We cruised along the Tien River to Ben Tre, visited a traditional brick factory, and met local artisans who make coconut candy and handicrafts. It was a relaxing end to our trip, giving us a glimpse of life in southern Vietnam’s rural areas.

What I’d do differently

If I were to plan this trip again, I’d focus on northern Vietnam and save the central and southern regions for another visit. The landscapes and cultural experiences in the north were the real highlights, and I felt we didn’t have enough time to explore Hanoi properly.

I still enjoyed the centre and the south. They were great for learning more about Vietnam’s history and the food was fantastic. But we lost a lot of time on transfers to the airports and flights. With such a tight schedule, even small delays on domestic flights added stress.

If I’d had more time to plan, I would have booked more homestays. The ones we stayed at were as comfortable (sometimes more!) than hotels, and the experience felt more personal.

I loved our stay in Ta Van near Sapa, but looking back, I wish we’d spent a night in a more remote village for a more immersive local experience. It was something our local guide* offered, but we had already planned our accommodation.

If you have three weeks in Vietnam

• Spend at least two, ideally three nights in Hanoi at the start to soak up the capital – we definitely rushed it.
• Add an extra night in Pu Luong* if you love nature and calm. The views and peaceful vibe were unforgettable. Or go to Mai Chau (we didn’t have time).
• Swap the flight to Da Nang with the overnight train ride.
• Take a day trip to Phong Nha Cave* from Hue.
• Consider an overnight tour to better explore the Mekong Delta.

Did you spend two or three weeks in Vietnam? Share your experience in the comments below!

Map of our two weeks in Vietnam

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