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Planning a trip to Vietnam in 2026? Follow this comprehensive 14-day itinerary covering the best of the North, Center, and South, from Hanoi to the Mekong Delta.
Overview of the Perfect 14-Day Trip
Vietnam is a long, diverse country with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. A 2-week itinerary is the sweet spot for first-time visitors to explore the three major regions: the historic North, the charming Center, and the bustling South. In 2026, with the Vietnam eVisa allowing up to 90 days for all nationalities, planning your trip is easier than ever. Apply for your eVisa early at Entry Vietnam to ensure a smooth arrival.
Book open-jaw flights: arrive in Hanoi (HAN) and depart from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to save travel time.
Days 1-2: Hanoi – The Cultural Heart
Start your journey in Hanoi, Vietnam's thousand-year-old capital. Spend your first day wandering through the Old Quarter's 36 chaotic but charming streets. Visit the Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and grab a traditional Egg Coffee at a hidden cafe. On Day 2, dive into history at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Hoa Lo Prison Museum. Enjoy a bowl of authentic Pho or Bun Cha for dinner.
- Must-eat: Pho, Bun Cha, Egg Coffee
- Must-see: Old Quarter, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake
- Getting there: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
Days 3-4: Ha Long Bay – Natural Wonder
A 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi takes you to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Ha Long Bay. Embark on an overnight luxury cruise to fully experience the emerald waters and limestone karsts. Day 4 includes morning Tai Chi, kayaking through hidden caves, and exploring floating fishing villages. Return to Hanoi in the late afternoon or head directly to Ninh Binh.
Day 5: Ninh Binh – Ha Long on Land
Ninh Binh offers dramatic limestone mountains rising from emerald rice paddies. Take a scenic sampan boat ride in Trang An or Tam Coc, gliding through river caves. Climb the 500 steps of Hang Mua (Mua Cave) for a spectacular panoramic view of the Ngo Dong River. In the evening, take a sleeper train or fly from Hanoi to Da Nang.
Days 6-9: Da Nang & Hoi An – Ancient Towns and Beaches
Arrive in Da Nang and transfer to the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An, just 45 minutes away. Spend Days 6 and 7 exploring the lantern-lit streets, getting custom-tailored clothes, and enjoying the unique cuisine like Cao Lau. On Day 8, take a day trip to the ancient Hindu temples of My Son Sanctuary or relax on An Bang Beach. Day 9 is perfect for exploring Da Nang's Ba Na Hills and the famous Golden Bridge before catching a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
Days 10-12: Ho Chi Minh City – The Bustling South
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the economic powerhouse of Vietnam. Day 10 is for city highlights: the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Ben Thanh Market. On Day 11, take a half-day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an incredible underground network used during the Vietnam War. Spend Day 12 exploring vibrant neighborhoods like District 2 or District 5 (Chinatown) and enjoying rooftop bars with skyline views.
Days 13-14: Mekong Delta – Rivers and Floating Markets
Leave the city behind and head to the Mekong Delta. On Day 13, cruise along the labyrinth of rivers, visit fruit orchards, and learn about local crafts like coconut candy making. Spend the night in Can Tho. Wake up early on Day 14 to witness the vibrant Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest in the Delta. Return to Ho Chi Minh City for your departure flight. Don't forget that if you plan to re-enter Vietnam later, you can select the multiple-entry option when you apply for your eVisa.
Getting Around Vietnam
Vietnam is vast, so domestic flights are the most efficient way to travel between regions. Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways offer affordable daily flights connecting Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. For shorter distances, use the Reunification Express train (great for scenic routes like Hue to Da Nang) or comfortable sleeper buses. In cities, the Grab app (similar to Uber) is the best way to get taxis or motorbike rides.
| Transport Mode | Best For | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic Flight | Hanoi to Da Nang / HCM | $30 - $80 |
| Train | Scenic routes, overnight | $20 - $50 |
| Sleeper Bus | Short distances, budget | $10 - $20 |
| Grab / Taxi | Within cities | $1 - $5 per ride |
Best Time to Visit Vietnam in 2026
Since this itinerary covers the whole country, weather will vary. Generally, the best times to travel from North to South are Spring (February to April) and Autumn (September to November). During these months, rainfall is moderate and temperatures are pleasant. Make sure to check our detailed weather guide for specific regional climates.