7 Days in Vietnam: 6 Best Itinerary Ideas for First Timers, Families and Couples

Seven days in Vietnam may seem like too short a time, but if you are looking to do a quick vacation, get ready to be surprised at how many exciting one-week Vietnam trips you can do!

Vietnam is a long country, from north to south. While your 7-day itinerary could involve multiple regions, we recommend that you focus on one or two regions, especially if you dislike moving from one place to another during a short trip.

In this article, we’ve rounded up the most popular one-week Vietnam itineraries, from bucket-list-city combinations like Hanoi and Ho Chin Minh to must-visit destinations like Halong Bay and lesser-visited places like the stunningly beautiful Sapa.

Excited? Let’s get started in discovering the very best 7-day Vietnam trip itineraries!

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 1: Vietnam Highlights Tour from North to South

It is possible to visit Vietnam from north to south in 7 days, but it would be a tight schedule. It is important to plan your itinerary carefully and prioritize which destinations and attractions you want to see. A private tour is the best way to make the most of your time. 

Halong Bay cruise

In your 7 days, we suggest visiting the three iconic cities and their surroundings, Hanoi and Halong Bay in the north, Hoi An in the central, and Ho Chin Minh City and the Mekong Delta in the south. This would allow you to experience the best of Vietnam's culture, history, natural beauty, and cuisine in just 7 days.

Here is a sample itinerary for inspiration:

• Day 1: Hanoi arrival, city sightseeing
• Day 2: Hanoi – Halong Bay, overnight cruise on Halong Bay
• Day 3: Halong Bay - Hanoi, Hanoi – Hoi An
• Day 4: Hoi An sightseeing
• Day 5: Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh
• Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City sightseeing, the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Day 7: Day trip to the Mekong Delta, HCMC departure

On this tour, you would start in Hanoi, exploring the city's rich history and culture. Then, you’d take an overnight trip to Halong Bay to see the stunning natural beauty of the area. While your time is limited, allowing a night to cruise on the bay is highly recommended considering the 2–3 hours’ drive to get there, and it is a perfect place to relax for couples or families.

You would then travel to Hoi An, a charming ancient town in central Vietnam, and spend a whole day exploring the town's beautiful architecture, delicious food, etc. Many interesting activities for couples and families can be personalized based on your interests, such as an evening foodie tour, a cooking class, lantern-making, and/or a farming/fishing experience.

Finally, you would end your trip in Ho Chi Minh City, experiencing the bustling city's historic landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and the Vietnam War’s legacy — the Cu Chi Tunnels. You would take a day trip to the Mekong Delta to see fertile farmland, handicrafts, and floating markets before departing from Ho Chi Minh City.

Visiting Vietnam in seven days is doable, but it may be too much of a rush, especially if you're traveling with kids. We recommend that you plan a trip of at least 10 days to do the above more comfortably. Our popular 10-day itinerary has been enjoyed by many first-timers. Contact us to have us personalize a tour for you.

10-Day Best of Vietnam with Mekong Delta Hanoi - Hoi An - Ho Chi Ming City - Mekong Delta

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I have never hear of this company… I have never hear of this company before , and after reading all these reviews ,I decided to give it a try . The professionalism and communicative skill received by one of the agent , Sharon of Asia Highlights , convince me that She was the right travel agent for my trip in Asia . Very quickly she communicated with me and got all the detail of my desire vacation . Sharon made me a great itinerary with great experiences that I am dreaming to experience and I am looking forward to it . Thanks Sharon for been so great and crafting me a dream vacation with great suggestions. More orge alvarez, May 2023

Coco Yang worked tirelessly to… From the moment I landed in Bangkok, Ms Noi Ying was there to welcome me and get me settled into my hotel. We enjoyed several days together touring Bangkok and Kanchanaburi. In Chiang Mai, Mr Ekachai took my son snd I on an amazing trip to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and to visit a community Lanna home, gardens and a hands-on cooking class preparing an authentic Thai meal. Lisa arranged a last-minute speedboat tour of 5 breathtaking islands in Phuket. From start to finish, the guides exceeded my expectations!! Thank you, Asia Highlight!! Debbie Woods More Debbie Woods, May 2023

Sharon from Asia highlights has been… Sharon from Asia highlights has been amazing. She offered her amazing ideas to other tours I wanted. We have planned the perfect 9 day itinerary to Thailand. She worked in my budget and was very flexible when I had to change my flights. Thank you sharon. Can’t wait for the trip. More Heather Stern Wilensky, Apr 2023

Ms. Ning first review 4-2023 Ms. Albee Ning has been doing a great job accommodating my requests and itinerary changes. Remember the first itinerary is a rough draft and you may modify it to suit your tastes. Remember you can not do it all and see everything in 3 weeks. If the flight wasn't so long I would visit Southeast Asia more often. I will update my review in a few months. We don't leave for 9 more months. Asia Highlights is working well for me so far! More Chiefray, Apr 2023

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I highly recommend Asia Highlights I highly recommend Asia Highlights. I worked with Alisa and she is fantastic! I was planning my honeymoon trip, and I changed the destination multiple times. Each time, Alisa provided me an updated itinerary with activities that matched my interests. Whether I had a small change to an activity, a question about one of the arrangements, or a change or destination, Alisa was helpful, thoughtful, and knowledgeable, providing me with updated options in an extremely timely manner. In the end, despite the fact that I changed my mind on location multiple times, I ended up booking a 17 day trip to Thailand for this upcoming November. I am extremely excited to experience everything that Alisa planned for us. I recommend Asia Highlights to everyone and look forward to using them again on any other trips to Asia in the future. Thank you Alisa and Asia Highlights! More Britt Rosen, Mar 2023

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Family Trip to Thailand Our trip to Thailand comprised three generations of the family , ten people and an age range of 4 to 70 so a potentially difficult brief.Our itinerary over two weeks involved four locations, and a number of different trips and tours.From out arrival at an extremely busy Bangkok airport Asia Highlights were terrific.In each location we were met by a smiling , knowledgeable and professional guide who simply made everything easy and stress free for everyone.Our transportation was clean and comfortable . Transport was always ready for us at the agreed time and the drivers were excellent.There were so many highlights enjoyed by all the age groups. The floating houses , railway market and elephant sanctuary were particular favourites.We had one minor glitch with the accommodation in Phuket which was immediately dealt with by Tip. I think we would have struggled to resolve the problem by ourselves. So, thank you Asia Highlights , Cathy, Tip and tour guides Tanny, Sam and Lisa. It was a memorable holiday and we will be back. More Roger Pyle, Feb 2023

Trip of a lifetime from Asia Highlights! I recommend highly Asia Highlights as a travel company. Our travel consultant Albee took the time to connect with us during the planning process to make sure we were comfortable with our itinerary. When we arrived, we were met by our guide and all the details were attended to. They picked great hotels and tours. I often describe our trip as the trip of a lifetime! Would definitely use them again when we come back to Asia More Nancy Parker, Feb 2023

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We had an awesome experience with Asia Highlights We started our trip in Bangkok, where Mr. Prassert our tour guide, met us. He was on time and the van was clean and well-maintained. Mr. Prassert was our guide for the 4 days we spent in Bangkok. He was helpful, kind, and willing to accommodate our pee and coffee breaks. The driver was safe and punctual. Next, we went to Chiang Mai.Gemma exceeded every expectation we had for our tour of Chiang Mai! She had a great attitude that made exploring the city fun and exciting, as well as an abundance of knowledge and experience. She was always spot on with figuring out logistics and coming up with unique ideas that suited our interests and schedules. Gemma was incredibly generous with her time and even walked us to security at the airport to make sure we could carry all of our luggage. That’s just one example of how far out of her way she went to make our trip easier and more enjoyable. Gemma was sincerely interested in making every minute of our trip count. We’re very grateful to have met her and feel like we have found a friend in Gemma! Our driver in Chiang Mai was also great and very accommodating to our changes in schedules. More Lois Paskow, Dec 2022

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7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 2:  The Best of Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam has to be one of the most beautiful regions in the country. With ancient temples, its dramatic seascape, and idyllic countryside, this region is truly breathtaking.

A seven-day trip covering northern Vietnam is recommended for culture and nature lovers. You can choose between a more leisurely tour around Hanoi or add Sapa, a mountainous town a little further north to your itinerary. 

Option 1: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Mai Chau – Halong Bay Journey

Our popular Northern Vietnam itinerary would take you on a journey through some of the region's most popular destinations, including Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, and Halong Bay. You’d explore the bustling streets of Hanoi, visit ancient temples and pagodas, marvel at the stunning limestone cliffs and rice paddies of Ninh Binh, have a valley cycling tour in Mai Chau, and enjoy a cruise on the emerald waters of Halong Bay.

Here is a sample itinerary for reference:

• Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
• Day 2: Hanoi city sightseeing
• Day 3: A day tour to immerse yourself in the idyllic countryside of Ninh Binh
• Day 4: Unveil Vietnam’s hill tribe culture with a valley cycling tour in Mai Chau.
• Day 5: Discover a H'mong Village during a mountain walk.
• Day 6: A visual feast on a Halong Bay cruise
• Day 7: Halong Bay to Hanoi and departure

See the detailed itinerary or contact us and we’ll tailor-make a tour for you.

6-Day Northern Vietnam Discovery Tour Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Mai Chau - Halong Bay

Option 2: Hanoi–Sapa–Halong Adventure

If you’re looking for a more-adventurous experience and to get more of a taste of minority culture in Northern Vietnam, you should definitely consider visiting Sapa. In Sapa, you can trek round its rice terraces and mountains, visit local villages, and learn about the local culture and traditions.

This itinerary is suitable for couples and families who enjoy outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

Here is a sample itinerary for inspiration:

• Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
• Day 2: Hanoi city sightseeing
• Day 3: Uncover the lifestyle of the Black H'mong with a half-day trekking tour in Sapa.
• Day 4: Discover the fairy-tale Love Waterfall, Scenic Heaven's Gate, and Mount Fansipan.
• Day 5: Drive from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay.
• Day 6: A visual feast on a Halong Bay cruise
• Day 7: Halong Bay to Hanoi and departure

See the detailed itinerary or contact us and we’ll tailor-make a tour for you.

5-Day Northern Vietnam Exploration with Sapa Hanoi - Sapa - Halong Bay

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 3: North and Central Vietnam

If you don't want to spend your full week in northern Vietnam, then a 7-day itinerary covering North Vietnam and Central Vietnam is a great option. This itinerary will take you on a journey through some of the most popular destinations in northern and central Vietnam.

Hoi An

You'll explore the bustling streets of Hanoi, enjoy a cruise on the emerald waters of Halong Bay, and stroll through the charming ancient town of Hoi An.

The tour is relatively slow-paced, perfect for families with children or retired couples.

Here is a sample itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi
• Day 2: Hanoi city sightseeing and a street food tour
• Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay, overnight cruising on Halong Bay
• Day 4: Halong Bay – Hoi An
• Day 5: Hoi An sightseeing
• Day 6: Enjoy a free day in Hoi An or experience more activities like a farming or fishing experience, or a cooking class.
• Day 7: End of trip, depart Vietnam

Let us know your ideal tour length and interests, and we’ll design a tour for you.

7-Day Northern Vietnam Family Discovery Tour Hanoi - Pu Luong Retreat - Halong Bay

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 4: Central Vietnam 

This itinerary focuses on the central region of Vietnam. During your one-week trip, you'd explore the charming ancient town of Hoi An, visit the imperial city of Hue, and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Da Nang.

Da Nang

You'd have the opportunity to take a sunset cruise, enjoy candlelit dinners, and stroll through ancient streets, making it a perfect romantic getaway for couples.

For families, there are plenty of family-friendly activities such as making lanterns, farming/fishing experiences, and trekking in a nature reserve. You'll also have the chance to try delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Time on a tropical beach would top it off nicely.

Suggested itinerary at a glance:

• Day 1: Da Nang arrival and city tour
• Day 2: Da Nang – Hoi An
• Day 3: Hoi An – My Son Sanctuary day trip
• Day 4: Hoi An – Hue
• Day 5: Hue – Bach Ma National Park day trip
• Day 6: Hue – Da Nang
• Day 7: Da Nang departure

Let us tailor-make your trip today and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

5-Day Central Vietnam from Ancient Time Best of Hue and Hoi An

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 5: Southern Vietnam City and Beach Holiday  

With its vibrant city, lovely villages, stunning beaches, and incredible food, it’s easy to love the south of Vietnam. A trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc Island with a journey into the Mekong Delta will show you the best the region has to offer.

This is a relaxing tour, suitable for families and retired couples who want to enjoy a leisurely vacation.

Phu Quoc Island

Here is a sample itinerary:

• Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City arrival
• Day 2: A half-day Ho Chi Minh City tour and the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Day 3: Discover the Mekong Delta.
• Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City – Phu Quoc Island
• Days 5–6: Relax on the beach
• Day 7: Phu Quoc Island – Ho Chi Minh City, departure

Does this itinerary meet your needs? If not, please contact us for customization.

5-Day Highlights of Ho Chi Minh City and Mekong Delta Essence of the South Vietnam

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary 6: From Southern Vietnam to North Cambodia

If you don't want to limit your vacation to South Vietnam, you could easily have a tour that combines the best of southern Vietnam and northern Cambodia.

Our popular tour would allow you to uncover the charm of Ho Chi Minh City and unveil the Mekong Delta's lifestyle during your stay in South Vietnam. Then, you’d explore the heart and soul of Cambodia by visiting Angkor Wat and more highlights in Siem Reap.

Here is a sample itinerary:

• Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City arrival
• Day 2: A half-day Ho Chi Minh City tour plus the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Day 3: Discovering the Mekong Delta
• Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City and flight to Siem Reap
• Day 5: A full day to explore the mysterious Angkor temples
• Day 6: Get to know Cambodia more at Banteay Srei, the Landmine Museum, and Tonle Sap Lake.
• Day 7: Siem Reap Departure

See the detailed itinerary or contact us for a tour tailor-made for you.

8-Day from South Vietnam to North Cambodia Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, and Seam Reap Tour

How Much Does One Week in Vietnam Cost?

Vietnam is a very affordable country. It offers a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, attractions, and tours, at prices that can match different levels of spending.

The costs vary based on different standards and needs. For a private tour, the cost per person for one week in Vietnam ranges from about 1,000 to 2,000 USD (medium budget to luxury).

• For a medium budget, touring Vietnam typically costs around US$ 200-250 per day per person (including airfares within Vietnam, 4- or 5-star hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers).
• For a higher budget of US$250-350 per day per person, more comfort can be enjoyed (including airfares within Vietnam, 5-star or higher hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers).

Travel with us to enjoy a comfortable and flexible private tour. With Asia Highlights, if you decide to cancel, you would enjoy a 100% refund of any payments made to us up to 3 weeks before departure (Cancellation Refund details⇒).

15-Day Vietnam Exploration with Beach Free Days Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hue - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh - Phu Quoc Island

Tour Vietnam with Us

At Asia Highlights we have lots of experience with creating the perfect trip for any traveler, especially for couples and families. We understand what makes traveling special and are dedicated to providing a personalized and fulfilling experience.

Get a wonderful Vietnam vacation simply by sending us a message. Or check out our sample itineraries for inspiration: