Vietnam is a stunning country, full of dramatic landscapes, energetic cities, and a history that lingers long after you leave. But with so much to see and do, planning the perfect Vietnam itinerary can feel overwhelming – I’ve been there too.
I was lucky enough to spend six weeks exploring Vietnam, which gave me time to discover my favourite spots and figure out which places to skip if you’re short on time.
But with so much to see, I’ve tried to make things easier by creating three different 2-week Vietnam itineraries:
- The first is a full North-to-South route, covering all the most famous spots. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience the country’s highlights in one trip.
- The second itinerary focuses on North Vietnam, including Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Sapa. This itinerary is ideal for those who want to explore the mountains, culture, and history of the north at a slower pace.
- The third is a South Vietnam itinerary, taking in Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc. It’s great for travellers who want to focus on tropical landscapes, beaches, and southern city life.
Whether you’re looking for it all or want to dive in a little deeper, this guide will help you create a Vietnam itinerary that works perfectly for you.
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Is 2 weeks in Vietnam Enough Time?
Two weeks in Vietnam is enough to experience the country’s highlights without feeling rushed. With careful planning, you can explore vibrant cities, scenic countryside, and breathtaking coastline all in one trip.
While you won’t see everything, you’ll get a true taste of Vietnam’s culture, food, and natural beauty.
There are several ways to spend 2 weeks in Vietnam, so I’ve included three different itineraries. The first covers the full North-to-South route, perfect for first-time visitors who want to see the whole country. The trade-off is that, because Vietnam is such a long country, travel times between stops are longer.
For this reason, I’ve also included two region-focused itineraries: one for North Vietnam and one for South Vietnam. These let you explore each region in more depth with less time spent travelling, making them ideal for a second visit or if you prefer a slower pace.
Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Vietnam is a long, narrow country, so the climate varies by region. Choosing the right time to visit can make a big difference in your experience.
- North Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa): The best months are October and November or March and April, when the weather is mild and dry. Summers can be hot and rainy, which may make sightseeing less enjoyable.
- Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang): February to August is ideal. These months are generally dry, perfect for exploring ancient towns and beaches. September to January can bring heavier rainfall and occasional storms.
- South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): Warm weather lasts all year, but December to April is the dry season, making travel between cities easier and outdoor activities more enjoyable.
If you’re planning a 2-week Vietnam itinerary across the whole country, visiting in March or April is usually the safest bet. You’ll enjoy comfortable temperatures and minimal rain across the country, whether you’re exploring the north, central, or south regions.
North-to-South 2 Week Vietnam Itinerary
If it’s your first time in Vietnam and you want to experience a little bit of everything, this North-to-South itinerary is perfect. Over 14 days, you’ll travel from the bustling streets of Hanoi in the north to the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City in the south, with stops at stunning landscapes, cultural highlights, and coastal towns along the way.
This itinerary is designed to hit all the must-see spots while still leaving time to explore at a relaxed pace. You’ll experience northern mountains, UNESCO heritage sites in central Vietnam, and the tropical south, giving you a complete taste of the country in just two weeks. While travel between regions is longer, the variety makes it worth the journey.
Day 1-2: Hanoi
Hanoi is Vietnam’s bustling capital, full of history, street food, and vibrant local life. The streets are busy, with vendors on every corner and bikes weaving through traffic, so take your first day at a relaxed pace to adjust.
Start by wandering the Old Quarter, exploring narrow streets and markets. If you want to dive right in, book yourself onto a street food walking tour and visit the famous Train Street. Hanoi is famous for its vibrant culinary scene, and a local guide is the best way to find the best spots.
In the evening, check out a traditional water puppet show, which is a uniquely Vietnamese cultural experience.
Day 3: Day trip to Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is one of northern Vietnam’s most iconic destinations, with its dramatic limestone karsts, emerald waters, and picture-perfect swimming spots.
Since time is limited, a day trip to the bay is the easiest way to experience the bay without spending the night. It’s pretty impossible to use public transport to return in a single day, so booking a tour is the most practical option.
One of the best choices is the Taliya Day Cruise, a luxury vessel offering a full-day adventure. You’ll cruise through Lan Ha Bay, explore Dark and Bright Cave, and enjoy kayaking or riding a bamboo boat in the serene Ao Ech.
Onboard, a fresh seafood lunch awaits, and you can take part in a cooking demonstration or unwind in the jacuzzi on deck as the sun sets. It’s truly one of the most luxurious ways to experience Ha Long Bay.
Day 4-7: Hà Giang Loop
Start Day 4 with breakfast and a coffee before being picked up for the scenic drive north to Hà Giang. The journey takes around seven hours, so pack some snacks! This trip sets the stage for one of Vietnam’s most unforgettable experiences: the Hà Giang Loop. It was my favourite part of northern Vietnam, and the good news is you don’t need to ride yourself.
The easiest and safest way to enjoy the loop is by booking a guided tour with an Easy Rider, letting you focus on the breathtaking scenery instead of navigating tricky mountain roads. This small-group tour is ideal, as it feels more personal than large companies and includes transport to and from Hà Giang, accommodation, meals, and your Easy Rider.
Over the next three days, you’ll explore the North’s stunning countryside. Winding roads take you past viewpoints like Heaven’s Gate and dramatic valleys, with switchbacks, rice terraces, and scenery that feels worlds away from Vietnam’s cities.
When you return to Hà Giang, you can hop on the overnight bus to Ninh Binh, ready for your next stop. Just make sure to let your tour guide know in advance!
Day 8: Ninh Binh
After the overnight bus from Ha Giang, you’ll arrive in Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land” thanks to its dramatic limestone karsts and winding rivers. This area is perfect for a relaxed day, letting you recover from the previous long journey while still taking in incredible scenery.
Rent a scooter and start by exploring Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can take a boat ride through caves and past towering karsts surrounded by lush greenery. Alternatively, the Tam Coc river trip is slightly shorter, less busy, and just as stunning.
Next, head to Bich Dong Pagoda before making your way to Mua Cave for sunset. It’s a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views over the countryside make it well worth the effort.
If you prefer not to rent a scooter, a day tour is a great way to see all of Ninh Binh’s highlights. This tour takes care of transport, and the guides are always friendly and knowledgeable, making it an easy, stress-free way to explore the area.
After exploring Ninh Binh, you’ll want to hop on another overnight bus to Hoi An. The journey takes 9 hours, so this is the best way to get there without wasting a day on travel.
Got more time? The chances are slim, but if you can, squeeze in a stop at Hue with its abandoned waterpark and royal palaces!
Day 9-10: Hoi An
After your night bus, you’ll arrive in Hoi An early in the morning. The town of yellow, Hoi An is well known for its Old Town, lantern-lit streets and tailor-made clothes.
The town is compact and easy to explore on foot, with narrow streets lined with old houses, small temples, and riverside cafes. Start by wandering through the Ancient Town, visiting the Japanese Covered Bridge and a few historic merchant houses. In the evening, the streets light up with lanterns.
In the evening, head to the riverfront to see it glow with floating lanterns. If you want a unique experience, take a short boat ride on the river and release your own floating lantern, a beautiful tradition that’s surprisingly memorable.
On your second day, focus on Hoi An’s food. A cooking class is a great way to learn dishes like cao lầu noodles, and if you’re curious about Vietnam’s unique coffee culture, try an egg coffee workshop.
If you prefer being outdoors, rent a bike or take a tour through the surrounding countryside to see rice paddies and quiet villages, or spend a couple of hours relaxing at An Bang Beach.
On your final day, hop on another night bus for the 14-hour journey to Ho Chi Minh City.
Looking for more on Hoi An? Check out my complete guide to the Best Things to do in Hoi An here!
Day 11-14: Ho Chi Minh City + Day Trip to Mekong Delta
By Day 11, you’ll be in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s energetic southern hub. The city is a fast-paced mix of historic French colonial buildings, bustling markets, and rooftop bars. You’ll likely be pretty tired by now, so take the first day nice and easy, wander through some shops and eat as many bánh mì as you can.
Once you’re rested, start by exploring District 1, visiting the War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Central Post Office for a dose of history and architecture. Then wander through Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and sample southern Vietnamese street food.
Spend some time discovering the city’s neighbourhoods. Cholon, the Chinese district, is full of temples and markets, while District 3 has quiet streets, coffee shops, and hidden gems. Evenings are perfect for rooftop drinks or a riverside stroll along the Saigon River.
On your third day in Ho Chi Minh, take a day trip outside of the city. There are a few options for you depending on what you like. An afternoon trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels gives a fascinating insight into Vietnam’s wartime history.
Alternatively, a day trip to the Mekong Delta offers a chance to see floating markets, coconut farms, riverside villages, and lush scenery.
On your final day, take the time to tick off anything you haven’t seen yet and get ready for wherever you’re headed next.
2 Week North Vietnam Itinerary
Next, we have a two-week itinerary focused solely on North Vietnam. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to see Vietnam in a little bit more detail, taking the time to really get to know one region.
The North is filled with dramatic landscapes, is much cooler than the South, and is arguably more adventurous than the South. With 2 weeks in North Vietnam, you’ll be able to go trekking through stunning rice fields, go on multi-day bike loops, and sail through towering limestone karsts.
Day 1-2: Hanoi
For this North Vietnam itinerary, Hanoi isn’t just a quick introduction. It’s your base for exploring the rest of the region.
For the first few days here, I recommend following the Hanoi highlights from the North-to-South itinerary above. You’ll return to Hanoi at the end of this route, and depending on your transport, you’ll likely pass through the city more than once.
This gives you flexibility to spread sights, food tours, and cultural experiences across multiple visits, instead of trying to cram everything into a single stay.
Your next stop, Ninh Binh, is just a 1.5-hour bus ride away. You can choose to head there in the evening of your second or early on day 3, depending on what suits you best.
Day 3-4: Ninh Binh
Unlike the previous itinerary, you now have two full days in Ninh Binh. This gives you the chance to slow the pace right down and enjoy the landscapes without rushing between sights.
You can cover the main highlights at a relaxed pace, including Mua Cave at sunset and a boat trip through Trang An or Tam Coc. With the extra time, it’s also worth going beyond the usual route. Visit the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital or explore some of the region’s impressive pagodas, such as Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of the largest temple complexes in Southeast Asia.
If you want to escape the crowds entirely, Cuc Phuong National Park is an excellent day trip from Ninh Binh. Just a short drive away, guided tours take you hiking through Vietnam’s oldest rainforest, learning about endangered primates, and exploring ancient caves. It’s a brilliant contrast to the karst scenery and one of the most underrated experiences in the north.
Next, hop on an overnight bus to Phong Nha, one of my favourite places in all of Vietnam.
Day 5-6: Phong Nha
While Phong Nha is technically in Central Vietnam rather than the North, it’s absolutely worth the small detour. It was one of my favourite places in the entire country.
Known as the cave capital of Southeast Asia, this area is packed with dramatic limestone landscapes, jungle scenery, and some truly unique experiences. And yes, it’s also home to the famous duck stop where you can be a duck leader for an hour.
Rent a scooter and spend your days driving through the beautiful countryside, hopping from one cave to another. A few highlights include Dark Cave, with ziplining and mud baths, and Paradise Cave, a stunning natural wonder with impressive stalactites and spacious chambers.
If you prefer not to drive yourself, a guided tour is an easy way to see the main attractions. This tour focuses on Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave, ideal for anyone more interested in natural history and scenery, whilst this tour has ziplining at Dark Cave for a more active, adrenaline-filled experience.
From Phong Nha, the easiest way to continue your trip is by overnight bus. Depending on how you choose to visit the next stop, either travel back north to Hanoi or head directly towards Ha Long Bay or Cát Bà Island.
Day 7-8: Ha Long Bay or Cát Bà Island
Now it’s time to experience Vietnam’s beautiful northeast coastline. With two full days here, you have some flexibility in choosing what to do here.
One option is an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay. Unlike a day trip, an overnight cruise lets you venture deeper into the bay, avoid the busiest hours, and wake up surrounded by limestone karsts rather than rushing back to Hanoi.
Cabins are comfortable, meals are included, and there’s plenty of time for kayaking, cave visits, and watching the sunset from the deck.
Travel Note: A lot of overnight tours start in Hanoi and include transfer to the Bay, so you may have to head back to the city after Ninh Binh
If you’d prefer something a little quieter, Cát Bà Island is a great alternative. While Ha Long Bay has become extremely popular in recent years, Cát Bà sits just a little further south and feels far less crowded. It’s ideal if you want similar scenery without the heavy tourist traffic.
With two days on Cát Bà, spend your first day on a full-day boat cruise through Lan Ha Bay, where you can kayak, explore caves, and swim in calm waters, often with far fewer boats than Ha Long.
On day two, explore the island itself. A guided hike through Cát Bà National Park takes you through dense jungle to viewpoints overlooking the coastline, offering a great contrast to time spent on the water.
Day 8-11: Hà Giang Loop
The Hà Giang Loop on this North Vietnam itinerary follows the exact same route, tour style, and experience as described in the North-to-South itinerary above. If you haven’t read that section yet, I recommend starting there for a full breakdown of what to expect day by day.
As before, the easiest and safest way to do the loop is with a small-group Easy Rider tour, which includes transport to Hà Giang, accommodation, meals, and your rider. You’ll spend three unforgettable days winding through mountain passes, rice terraces, deep valleys, and some of the most dramatic scenery in the country.
Just be sure to tell your tour operator in advance that you’d like to finish in Sapa, as this transfer is included but needs to be arranged ahead of time.
Day 11-13: Sapa
Sapa is a beautiful destination, with dramatic mountainous landscapes and stunning terraced rice fields. With three days here, you can take your time trekking through the hills, exploring villages, and even travel up to the highest point in Indochina.
Trekking is by far the most popular activity. Local women from the hill tribes guide you through terraces and bamboo forests, sharing insights about their communities. In three days, you can easily do a 2-day trekking tour, passing through small Hmong and Red Dao villages and spending a night in a homestay.
If two days feels a bit long, a single-day trek is still plenty of time to explore the mountains and rice fields. This also leaves room for other activities, like taking the cable car up to Mount Fansipan, the highest mountain in Indochina. Try to go on a clear day to enjoy the full views, or you’ll spend the whole time in the clouds!
As you can see from my photos, I visited Sapa in perhaps the worst time of year. In winter, the weather is cold and wet, and the terraces are muddy and brown. While the landscapes were still stunning and I had a great time, I’d recommend visiting in summer for lush green fields, or autumn for better weather and golden-hued terraces.
Day 14: Hanoi
On your final day, travel back to Hanoi. Use any spare time to tick off sights or activities you haven’t yet seen, revisit your favourite streets, or simply relax and enjoy a last coffee in the Old Quarter.
It’s also the perfect moment to get ready for your next stop, whether that’s continuing your Vietnam adventure or heading elsewhere in Southeast Asia.
2 Week South Vietnam Itinerary
If you want to experience a different side of Vietnam, the south offers bustling cities, tropical beaches, and peaceful river landscapes that contrast sharply with the mountainous North. This itinerary is perfect for travellers who love a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation.
With 2 weeks in South Vietnam, you’ll explore Ho Chi Minh City and its lively streets, venture underground to the Cu Chi Tunnels, cruise the Mekong Delta, unwind on Phu Quoc Island, and take in the scenic beauty of Mui Ne and Da Lat. With two weeks, you can move at a comfortable pace while enjoying the highlights and discovering hidden gems along the way.
Day 1-2: Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is vibrant, chaotic, and full of energy, and the perfect place to dive straight into southern Vietnam. Start your visit with the city’s incredible food scene.
A scooter food tour is a fun way to taste local specialities while weaving through the bustling streets, stopping at hidden gems you might never find on your own. Make sure to also explore The Café Apartment. This converted building is filled with restaurants, bars, full of quirky coffee shops and boutique stores. You could easily spend breakfast, lunch and dinner here.
Vietnam is famous for its coffee culture, and your time in Ho Chi Minh is perfect to explore it a bit more depth. Join an egg coffee and Vietnamese coffee workshop, where you can learn to brew four traditional styles and enjoy the city’s iconic sweet, creamy drinks.
One place I insist everyone go to is the War Remnants Museum. It’s an essential for understanding Vietnam. Whilst it is very harrowing and the images are very graphic, the exhibits offer a crucial insight into the country’s past and the resilience of its people.
Day 3: Cu Chu Tunnels Day Trip
On your third day, take a day trip out of Ho Chi Minh to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive network used during the Vietnam War. A guided tour gives you the full story of how these underground passageways were used by soldiers and locals, and lets you see some of the original traps and living spaces.
The easiest way to visit is on a half-day morning or afternoon tour from Ho Chi Minh City, which includes transport and a knowledgeable guide. You can crawl through a section of the tunnels yourself, providing a hands-on perspective of what life was like underground.
This day trip pairs well with the city’s history and culture-focused activities, and by the afternoon, you’ll be back in Ho Chi Minh, so enjoy a nice meal out before an early night, ready to catch your morning bus to the Mekong Delta.
Day 4-6: Mekong Delta – Bến Tre and Cần Thơ
On the morning of Day 4, catch a bus to the Mekong Delta. While it’s possible to go straight to Cần Thơ, I recommend spending your first night or two in Bến Tre. Quieter and more rural than Cần Thơ, Bến Tre is perfect if you want to enjoy the natural side of the delta, with coconut groves, rivers, and a slower-paced life.
The journey takes just over two hours, giving you plenty of time to explore. Rent a bicycle to ride through the lush coconut groves, or join a local boat tour to see the waterways, floating villages, and hidden corners.
While many tours online go directly from Ho Chi Minh City, I found it easy to book mine in person at my homestay, which was cheaper and more flexible.
On the evening of Day 5, take the bus to Cần Thơ, preparing for an early start at the famous floating market. You have to visit the market before sunrise, and I highly recommend booking a tour in advance – I misjudged the timing and struggled to find a boat in the dark, ending up paying significantly more for a last-minute private tour.
A great option is this small-group floating market tour, which not only includes transport to the market, but also a guided walk through a nearby village and even a coffee tasting session, making the most of your day in Cần Thơ.
Day 7-9: Phu Quoc Island
Unfortunately, Day 7 is mostly travel day, but it’s worth it for the paradise waiting at the other end. Wake up early and catch the bus to Rạch Giá, then take the afternoon ferry to Phu Quoc Island. The journey is scenic, and arriving on the island feels like stepping into a tropical escape.
Spend the next two days relaxing and exploring the island’s highlights. You can lounge on white sandy beaches, snorkel in clear waters, or rent a scooter to discover hidden coves and local fishing villages. Wander the night market in Dương Đông for fresh seafood and local treats, or visit the Phu Quoc National Park for a short hike through the jungle.
When it’s time to continue your trip, you have two main options. The quickest and easiest way is to fly from Phu Quoc to Da Lat, which saves time but is more expensive.
For a more budget-friendly option, you can take the ferry back to the mainland and then continue by bus to either Da Lat or Mui Ne, usually transferring in Ho Chi Minh City. This second option is longer and a bit more logistically tricky, but it can be cheaper and gives you a chance to see more of southern Vietnam along the way.
Day 10-11: Da Lat
Da Lat is a refreshing change of pace from the beaches and delta life, sitting in the Central Highlands with cooler weather, pine forests, and rolling hills. It’s a great spot for adventure activities as well as exploring charming cafés and the French-inspired city centre.
One of the best things to do here is canyoning, which combines hiking, swimming, abseiling, and jumping into natural pools, perfect if you love adrenaline and the outdoors.
For a more relaxed day, visit Elephant Falls, Datanla Waterfall, or Prenn Waterfall, all surrounded by lush landscapes that feel worlds away from the coast. Renting a scooter is a convenient way to explore at your own pace. However, guided tours are also available for a more hassle-free experience.
Da Lat is also full of quirky spots like the Crazy House and vibrant local markets, making it easy to mix adventure with a bit of culture. Two days here is enough to enjoy both active and laid-back experiences.
Day 12-13: Mui Ne
Mui Ne is the perfect spot to slow down and enjoy southern Vietnam’s coastline. Known for its dramatic sand dunes, beaches, and fishing villages, it’s a great mix of adventure and relaxation.
Start by visiting the Red and White Sand Dunes at sunrise, where you can hike, sandboard, or simply watch the sunrise or sunset over the rolling sands. The Fairy Stream is another must-see, with a beautiful, shallow, winding stream that flows through colourful rock formations and bamboo groves, ideal for an easy stroll.
Mui Ne is also popular for water sports, with kitesurfing and windsurfing options for those looking for a bit of excitement. For a more laid-back day, wander through the fishing village to watch local life, or simply relax on the beach.
Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City
After your final journey from Mui Ne or Da Lat, spend your last day soaking up the city at a slower pace. Wander the streets of District 1, sip a coffee at a riverside café, or explore the spots you missed last time, like the Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral and the central post office.
Transport in Vietnam: How to Get Around
Vietnam is long and varied, so choosing the right transport can make a huge difference when you only have two weeks. Buses are really great in Vietnam, and overnight buses will be your best friend when trying to save time on these itineraries.
They let you travel between cities while sleeping, so you don’t lose a day to transit. Many of the itineraries above rely on overnight buses to get the most out of your 14 days.
I booked most of my buses and ferries through 12Go, which is reliable and lets you compare prices and routes all in one.
If you choose to fly between some destinations, I always use Skyscanner. It is the best tool to find the cheapest and most convenient options.
Other transport options include trains, which are scenic but slower, or renting a scooter locally for short distances and day trips. You can usually do this through your accommodation or a local shop.
The Wrap Up: Finding Your Perfect 2 Week Vietnam Itinerary
Vietnam is a country full of contrasts, from bustling cities and tranquil rivers to towering mountains and tropical islands. With just two weeks in Vietnam, it’s impossible to see everything, but these itineraries show how you can experience the very best of the North, South, or even both regions.
Whether you choose the full North-to-South route, focus on Northern highlights, or explore the South’s beaches and deltas, each itinerary balances iconic sights with hidden gems. Planning your transport with overnight buses, ferries, and flights ensures you make the most of your time, while leaving space to relax and enjoy the local culture.
No matter which route you pick, Vietnam offers incredible food, friendly people, and landscapes that stay with you long after you leave. Use these itineraries as a guide, but make the trip your own, add in the spots that excite you most, and take the time to soak it all in.
