Vietnam is an increasingly popular destination for travelers from our little red dot. With its fascinating history, tumultuous past, glorious cheap food, lovely people and dramatic landscapes, there’s plenty to explore and uncover in this gem that still has the feel of ‘old Asia’.
If you need to get away from Singapore’s fast-paced city life for a week or two, Vietnam is a wonderful place to explore and recharge. To help you plan your Vietnam trip, check out these popular routes for travelling across Vietnam. Get the full Vietnam experience from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh, or an in-depth Vietnam trip focused on the Scenic North, or put on your adventure boots for a journey through Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes.
Read more below for an idea of the top things to do, how many days you should spend on each stop, and some interesting day trips you can take. When you’re ready to take the leap and get down to booking your own journey, use the buttons to check out the latest flight prices and hotels loved by other travellers. Then book your ideal Vietnam trip, your way. No fixed routes! Stay as long as you want in each city, fly where you want, choose only hotels in your budget, and stay close to the attractions you’re most interested in. Let’s go! Good Morning Vietnam!
Grand Tour
Grand Tour – 18 Days – Vietnam Itinerary
Designed for the traveler who wants to soak in every bit of magic Vietnam can offer, this route takes you through all of the best spots in the country! Comprising of a good mix between cities and nature spots, this route will give you a well-rounded experience of Vietnam. With so much to do and so much distance to cover, be prepared to dedicate at least half a month of your time for this itinerary.
Fly from Singapore (SIN) to Hanoi (HAN)
1) Hanoi – 2 days
Fly into Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam that lies along the Red River. Known being surrounded by more than 20 different lakes, most of Vietnam’s famous dishes, such as Pho, are said to have come from Hanoi.
The 1-hour journey from the city’s airport, Nou Bai Airport, to the city center offers an insight into the life of the Vietnamese – farmers working in their fields next to meandering rivers, interspersed with highways and sidewalks. The countless French colonial-era buildings in Hanoi stake claim to this city being once the capital of French Indochina.
Take a train from Hanoi to Lao Cai
2) Lao Cai – 2 days
Take an overnight 9-hour train ride from Hanoi to Lào Cai. What was once a key trading post of Vietnam, Lào Cai is now better known for its numerous historical sites, natural caves, and mountainous agriculture. Nature lovers will love the Lào Cai Province for its unspoiled natural environment. Near the border between China and Vietnam, with Sapa being 30 minutes away, this is also a popular overnight stop for travelers journeying between China and Vietnam.
Take a bus from Lao Cai to Sapa
3) Sapa – 2 days
From Lào Cai, it is a 1 hour ride to Sapa by bus or taxi. Alternatively, take a 6-hour bus ride directly to Sapa from Hanoi.
A beautiful and mountainous town in northern Vietnam bordering China, Sapa is incredibly picturesque and is the heartland of Vietnam’s hill-tribes, rice terraces and lush vegetation. Sign up for light treks in the stunning Tonkinese Alps or rent a pedal boat in the Sapa Lake. If you’re up for a bigger challenge, take a hike in the remote Sapa valley.
Take a train from Sapa to Mai Chau
4) Mai Chau – 1 day
Mai Chau is an idyllic valley and a peaceful retreat that is a treat to all who visit. This calm town is perfect for those new to exploring different countries. Here you’ll find easy treks and biking activities along the vast area of rice fields and tiny villages.
Take a flight from Hanoi to Hue
5) Hue – 2 days
Discover Vietnam’s ancient history and modernization in imperial Hue. Visit the UNESCO protected monuments of Hue such as the Imperial Citadel, discover the tombs of ancient Kings, and be awed by the Hue architecture which is a combination of royal architect, folk, religious ones, traditional and modern sides.
Take a bus from Hue to Phong Nha Ke Bang
6) Phong Nha Ke Bang- 2 days
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The caves in this region are the highlight of the region with hundreds of cave systems to explore. Stay overnight in the world’s largest known cave, Hang En, or trek through the beautiful lush forest or mountain bike along the Bong Lai Valley.
Take a train from Phong Nha Ke Bang to Hoi An
7) Hoi An – 2 days
Another UNESCO World Heritage site, the charming old port town of Hoi An showcases an amalgamation of cultures through its architecture, food and attractions. Rent a bike and ride through this town or take a leisurely stroll past the old shop houses. Between activities, relax in the spacious cafes and bars sprawled in the Old Town.
Take a flight from Hoi An to Nha Trang
8) Nha Trang – 3 days
When one thinks of beaches and marine life in Vietnam, Nha Trang comes directly to mind. Known for having some of the most diverse underwater life in Vietnam, this famous seaside resort-town’s different species of fishes and colourful coral reefs attract scuba divers and snorkelers to the city all year round. Apart from that, Nha Trang is not foreign to both backpackers and luxury travelers from within and outside Vietnam because of its beautiful bays.
Take a train from Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City
9) Ho Chi Minh – 2 days
Experience the culture in the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels and explore the network of underground pathways used during the Vietnam War. To keep your energy up, make sure to try the famous Vietnamese coffee by one of the roadside vendors as it is a true treat!
Option: Day Trip to Mekong Delta
Lying west of Ho Chi Minh City, the famous Mekong Delta is a popular choice for a day trip. This river flows through 13 provinces in Vietnam and is essential to a quarter of Vietnam’s total agriculture!
The villages that depend on the delta for sustenance are often accessible only by rivers and canals rather than by road. You can find children riding on water buffalos, farmers harvesting rice paddies, locals rowing boats on one of the many channels on the delta, and stalls selling cartons of colourful fruits.
Best Of Vietnam
Best of Vietnam – 7 days – Vietnam Itinerary
A concise version of the Grand tour, this is the most popular route for first-time travelers who want to see the top highlights of Vietnam in a fraction of the time.
Fly from Singapore (SIN) to Hanoi (HAN)
1) Hanoi – 2 days
Fly into Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam that lies along the Red River. Known for being surrounded by more than 20 different lakes, most of Vietnam’s famous dishes, such as Pho, are said to have come from Hanoi.
1-hour journey from the city’s airport, Nou Bai Airport, to the city center offers an insight into the life of the Vietnamese – farmers working on their fields next to meandering rivers, interspersed with highways and sidewalks. The countless French colonial-era buildings in Hanoi stake claim to this city being once the capital of French Indochina.
Bus or Train, then Ferry from Hanoi to Halong Bay
Option: Day Trip to Halong Bay
Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba Island are among the most popular attractions in the north of Vietnam. Halong Bay is made up of scattered islands, tall limestone pillars and tiny islets. You can opt for cruise-tours within the bay or the more exciting option of kayaking among the bays.
2) Hoi An – 2 days
Take a day or two to experience farming and fishing life at Hoi An’s beautiful countryside. Learn how to spread a traditional Vietnamese fishing net, called a ro, from Vietnamese fishermen who have been employing this method for centuries. Visit a water palm area surrounded by coconut trees while learning the history and culture of Hoi An.
Bus from Hoi An to Hue
3) Hue – 1 day
Take a day or two to experience farming and fishing life at Hoi An’s beautiful countryside. Learn how to spread a traditional Vietnamese fishing net, called a ro, from Vietnamese fishermen who have been employing this method for centuries. Visit a water palm area surrounded by coconut trees while learning the history and culture of Hoi An.
Flight from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City
4) Ho Chi Minh City – 2 days
Before you depart Vietnam, experience the culture in the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels and explore the network of underground pathways used during the Vietnam War. And no trip to Saigon is complete without having Vietnamese coffee by the roadside vendors, before flying back home.
Fly home from Ho Chi Minh (SGN) – Singapore (SIN)
The Scenic North
The Scenic North – 6 days – Vietnam Itinerary
The northern region of Vietnam contains some of its most awe-inspiring scenery. Adjacent to the Red River Delta, much of the region is mountainous terrain spotted with rice terraces, which the region is known for. Filled with diverse cultures of hill-tribes spread about the mountains and separated by rice paddies and other agricultural crops. A stunning big-sky region that is perfect when there is a need to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
1) Hanoi – 2 days
Fly from Singapore (SIN) to Hanoi (HAN)
Fly into Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam that lies along the Red River. Known for being surrounded by more than 20 different lakes, most of Vietnam’s famous dishes, such as Pho, are said to have come from Hanoi.
The 1-hour journey from the city’s airport, Nou Bai Airport, to the city center offers an insight into the life of the Vietnamese – farmers working in their fields next to meandering rivers, interspersed with highways and sidewalks. The countless French colonial-era buildings in Hanoi stake claim to this city being once the capital of French Indochina.
Bus or Train, then Ferry from Hanoi to Halong Bay
2) Halong Bay – 1 day
Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba Island are among the most popular attractions in the north of Vietnam. Halong Bay is made up of scattered islands, tall limestone pillars and tiny islets. You can opt for cruise-tours within the bay or the more exciting option of kayaking among the bays.
Ferry, then Bus or Train from Halong Bay to Sapa
3) Sapa – 2 days
A beautiful and mountainous town in northern Vietnam bordering China, Sapa is incredibly picturesque and is the heartland of Vietnam’s hill-tribes, rice terraces and lush vegetation, which translates to lots of dreamy materials for your Instagram account!
Sign up for light treks in the stunning Tonkinese Alps. Rent a pedal boat in the Sapa Lake. If you’re up for a bigger challenge, take a hike in the remote Sapa valley.
Bus from Sapa to Hanoi
4) Hanoi – 1 day
Return back to Hanoi for one last night of immersion in the Vietnamese culture before flying back home. Catch water puppetry, a traditional form of entertainment in Hanoi, to end with an unforgettable experience found at the Thăng Long Water Puppet Theatre.
Fly home from Hanoi (HAN) – Singapore (SIN)
Adventure Tour
Adventure Tour – 8 days – Vietnam Itinerary
For outdoorsy travelers, grab your backpack and strap on your trekking shoes because this route takes you on some amazing adventures! From roaming big-city streets to discovering caves and mountain passes, this route is made for those who like getting off the beaten path and breaking a sweat for unique experiences. Learn about the intricacies of Vietnam by going in-depth into their culture and exploring the diverse range of Vietnamese landscapes.
Fly from Singapore (SIN) to Hanoi (HAN)
Train from Hanoi to Sapa
1) Sapa – 2 days
A beautiful and mountainous town in northern Vietnam bordering China. The city is incredibly picturesque and is the heartland of hill-tribes, rice terraces and lush vegetation, full of stunning opportunities for your Instagram account!
Sign up for light treks in the stunning Tonkinese Alps. Rent a pedal boat in the Sapa Lake. If you’re up for a bigger challenge, take a hike in the remote Sapa valley.
Take a bus from Sapa to Mu Cang Chai
2) Mu Cang Chai – 2 days
The most scenic rice terraces in the world. Explore the Lim Mong Valley. You can also take the option of doing an intense trek at Khau Pha mountain pass, the highest mountain in the Mu Cang Cai area.
Take a bus from Mu Cang Chai to Mai Chau
3) Mai Chau – 3 days
Mai Chau is an idyllic valley and a peaceful retreat that you need. This calm town is perfect for those new to exploring foreign countries. Here you’ll find easy treks and biking activities along the vast area of rice fields and tiny villages.
Take a bus or train, then ferry from Mai Chau to Halong Bay
4) Ha Long Bay – 1 day
Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba Island are among the most popular attractions in the north of Vietnam. Halong Bay is made up of scattered islands, tall limestone pillars and tiny islets. You can opt for cruise-tours within the bay or the more exciting option of kayaking among the bays.
Take a ferry then a bus from Halong Bay to Phong Nha Ke Bang
Option: Day Trip to Phong Nha Ke Bang
The beautiful Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This park is the highlight of any cave adventurer as it contains hundreds of cave systems. Once you are at Phong Nha-Ke Bang, you can choose to stay overnight in the world’s largest known cave, Hang En, trek through the beautiful lush forest or mountain bike along the Bong Lai Valley.