7 Days Itinerary in Vietnam: A Practical One Week Travel Plan
Vietnam is a country that surprises at every corner. From the chaotic streets of Hanoi to the serene waters of Halong Bay, every day feels alive. This 7 days itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of Vietnam without feeling rushed. I’ve packed it with real traveler tips, time-saving advice, and hidden gems that most guidebooks miss.
Imagine stepping out into the morning Hanoi air — the breeze smells like fresh coffee and street food grilling nearby. That’s the feeling I want you to carry through this one week travel plan. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap for your Vietnam adventure, from cultural sights to foodie heaven, all in a practical week-long travel itinerary.
Razi Ansari—just a guy with a backpack, a camera, and too many stories from the road. I write about the real moments, the messy adventures, and the hidden corners of the world that don’t always make it to the guidebooks
Get Free Consultation
Day 1 — Smart Start to Your 7 Day Travel Guide (Hanoi Arrival)
Landing in Hanoi is a sensory overload in the best way. Scooters zoom past, vendors call out, and the smell of street food hangs in the air.
If you arrive early, drop your bags at a hotel and take a slow walk around Hoan Kiem Lake. If your flight is late, check in and rest — Vietnam’s energy will still be there tomorrow.
Pro tip: Buy a local SIM at the airport. It’s cheaper than buying downtown and makes navigation easy.
Evening suggestion: grab bun cha at a street stall near the Old Quarter. It’s your first taste of Hanoi magic.
Loved this post? Save it for later on Pinterest!
Pin the ultimate beach bucket list—come back anytime for coastal guides, travel hacks, and ocean vibes!
Day 2 — Local Exploration Tips for a One Week Travel Plan (Hanoi)
Start before sunrise — Hanoi wakes slowly and beautifully. Wander the Old Quarter when streets are quiet. Photograph colorful tube houses, street vendors arranging their produce, and the morning ritual of locals sipping coffee.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes; streets are uneven and full of surprises. Pre-book the Museum of Ethnology tickets to skip long lines.
Hidden gem: Rent a cyclo and ride over Long Bien Bridge at sunset. It’s less crowded and gives an incredible view of the Red River.
Day 3 — Cultural Insights in This 7 Days Itinerary (Halong Bay Day Trip)
A day in Halong Bay is a must. Book a reputable boat and leave early — the bay is magical in soft morning light. Expect limestone karsts, emerald waters, and floating villages.
Tip: Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a lightweight towel for kayak stops. Avoid unlicensed boats — safety first!
Lunch on the boat usually includes freshly grilled seafood. I recommend trying squid or fish straight from the water — it’s unbelievably fresh.
Cultural note: Ask before photographing locals in floating villages. Respect goes a long way.
Day 4 — Midweek Tips to Keep Your One Week Travel Plan Smooth (Hoi An Transfer)
Fly or take a train to Da Nang, then taxi to Hoi An. Check into a riverside homestay — mornings here feel dreamy with lanterns reflecting on the water.
Afternoon: relax. Take a short spa break or a riverside coffee. Midweek fatigue can sneak in, so pacing is key.
Self-care tip: Carry a reusable bottle and hydrate frequently. A light scarf helps in temples and on breezy evenings.
Day 5 — Adventure & Day-Trip Tips in Your 7 Day Travel Guide (Hoi An & My Son)
Wake up early to capture Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets. Then rent a bicycle and explore the rice paddies — quiet, green, and almost postcard-perfect.
Take a half-day trip to My Son Sanctuary, the Cham temple ruins. Safety tip: rent bikes or gear from verified shops only.
Nearby adventure: Cua Dai Beach for a calm swim or riverside picnic.
Food tip: Don’t miss cao lầu — a local noodle specialty available in small family-run stalls.
Day 6 — Budget & Food Hacks in This Week-Long Itinerary (Ho Chi Minh City)
Fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Use ride-hailing apps like Grab to get transparent pricing.
Street food is incredibly cheap — expect banh mi for $1–2. Markets are great for bargains, but always smile and negotiate politely.
Splurge-worthy suggestion: Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Saigon River a perfect balance to street eats.
Money tip: Carry some cash, but keep a travel card handy for ATM backups.
Day 7 — Farewell Tips to End Your One Week Travel Plan (Ho Chi Minh City)
Spend the morning at Ben Thanh Market, shopping for souvenirs and sipping iced coffee. Pack everything carefully — souvenirs, receipts, and memories.
Confirm airport transfer early; Ho Chi Minh traffic can be unpredictable. Take one last stroll, breathe deeply, and reflect.
Emotional tip: Write down two favorite meals and one surprising moment. Leaving Vietnam feels bittersweet like finishing a book you don’t want to end.
Bonus Tips for Your 7 Day Travel Route
Transport: Short flights save time; taxis and Grab are convenient for city travel.
Accommodation: Stay central to reduce travel time to major sights.
Safety: Keep copies of documents and your phone charged.
Best season: October to April is generally dry and comfortable.
Extend your trip: Add Phu Quoc for beaches or Sapa for mountain trekking to make it a 10-day adventure.
Quick Checklist for Your One Week Travel Plan Passport, visa copies, and insurance
- Local SIM and portable charger
- Comfortable shoes and light layers
- Compact umbrella for sudden rain
- Small change for markets