Hanoi Itinerary

Overview

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, blends French colonial charm with traditional Vietnamese culture. It’s the perfect starting point for this two week Vietnam travel itinerary.

How Long to Stay in Hanoi

2 days

How to Get to Hanoi

Fly into Noi Bai International Airport (HAN). Take a taxi or shuttle to the city center (~45 minutes, ~$15 USD).

Best Hotels to Stay in Hanoi

• Hostel: Nexy Hostel – Central and modern.
• Budget: Hanoi Little Town Hotel – Affordable and comfortable.
• Boutique: La Siesta Hotel Trendy – Stylish with great amenities.

What to Do in Hanoi

• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (Free).
• Explore the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake (Free).
• Take a cyclo ride to the Temple of Literature (~$2 USD).
• Watch a Water Puppet Show (~$5 USD).

Where to Eat in Hanoi

• Pho Gia Truyen ($, 4.8/5) – Iconic pho.
• Bun Cha Huong Lien ($$, 4.7/5) – Obama’s famous meal spot.
• Home Hanoi ($$$, 4.8/5) – Upscale Vietnamese cuisine.

Modes of Transport in Hanoi

Walk or use Grab for short trips.

Hanoi Digital Nomad Rating

4.5/5: Excellent internet and coworking spaces with a lively atmosphere. Nomadlist Hanoi

Ha Long Bay Itinerary

Overview

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its emerald waters and limestone karsts. A must-see on this two week Vietnam travel itinerary, it’s a stunning natural wonder.

How Long to Stay in Ha Long Bay

2 days (overnight cruise).

How to Get from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

Book a shuttle or private transfer (~4 hours, ~$15-20 USD).

Best Cruises in Ha Long Bay

• Budget: Swan Cruises – Affordable and scenic.
• Mid-Range: Bhaya Cruises – Great value with comfort.
• Luxury: Paradise Elegance Cruise – Premium experience.

What to Do in Ha Long Bay

• Cruise through the bay to explore caves and floating villages (~$100 USD).
• Kayak in the calm waters (Included in most cruises).
• Visit Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave and Titop Island (Included in tours).

Where to Eat in Ha Long Bay

• Onboard Dining: Most cruises include meals featuring fresh seafood and Vietnamese specialties.
• Cua Vang Restaurant ($$, 4.6/5) – Known for its local seafood dishes in a casual setting.
• Co Ngu Restaurant ($$$, 4.5/5) – Offers a more upscale dining experience with a wide variety of Vietnamese and Asian cuisine.

Modes of Transport in Ha Long Bay

Most exploration is done via the cruise ship or small kayaks provided by your tour operator. Taxis or motorbike rentals are available if staying on the mainland.

Ha Long Bay Digital Nomad Rating

3.5/5: Beautiful scenery but limited internet and work opportunities while on the bay; ideal for a short digital detox.

Ninh Binh Itinerary

Overview

Ninh Binh, often called the “Halong Bay on land,” is a stunning destination of limestone karsts, winding rivers, and rice paddies. A serene stop on this two week Vietnam travel itinerary, it’s perfect for nature lovers.

How Long to Stay in Ninh Binh

1-2 days

How to Get from Ha Long Bay to Ninh Binh

Take a private car or shuttle (~4-5 hours, ~$20 USD), or return to Hanoi and take a train (~2.5 hours, ~$10 USD).

Best Hotels to Stay in Ninh Binh

• Hostel: Go Ninh Binh Hostel – Budget-friendly and social.
• Budget: Tam Coc Bungalow – Affordable riverside stay.
• Boutique: Tam Coc Garden Boutique Resort – Luxury with stunning views.

What to Do in Ninh Binh

• Take a boat ride in Tam Coc (~$10 USD).
• Visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam (~$5 USD).
• Hike up Hang Mua (Mua Caves) for panoramic views (~$5 USD).
• Explore Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest complex in Vietnam (Free or guided tour).

Where to Eat in Ninh Binh

• Chookie’s Beer Garden ($, 4.6/5) – Casual spot with burgers, snacks, and a great beer selection.
• Trung Tuyet Restaurant ($$, 4.7/5) – Local Vietnamese specialties served with warm hospitality.
• Tam Coc Garden Resort Restaurant ($$$, 4.6/5) – Fine dining with stunning views of the surrounding rice fields.

Modes of Transport in Ninh Binh

Rent a bike (~$5 USD/day) or hire a motorbike taxi for short distances.

Ninh Binh Digital Nomad Rating

3.5/5: Scenic but limited coworking spaces and internet. Nomadlist Ninh Binh

Phong Nha Itinerary

Overview

Phong Nha is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, home to some of the world’s largest caves and stunning landscapes. A thrilling destination on this two week Vietnam travel itinerary, it’s a UNESCO-listed wonder.

How Long to Stay in Phong Nha

2 days

How to Get from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha

Take an overnight train (~9 hours, ~$25 USD) or bus (~10 hours, ~$20 USD).

Best Hotels to Stay in Phong Nha

• Budget: Phong Nha Farmstay – Relaxed countryside stay.
• Boutique: Chay Lap Farmstay – Eco-friendly luxury.

What to Do in Phong Nha

• Explore Phong Nha Cave by boat (~$10 USD).
• Visit Paradise Cave (~$15 USD).
• Take a guided trek to Hang En or Son Doong Caves (Prices vary; advance booking required).
• Bike through the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (Free).

Where to Eat in Phong Nha

• Bamboo Cafe ($, 4.6/5) – Affordable local and Western dishes in a relaxed setting.
• Phong Nha Vegan House ($, 4.8/5) – Popular for its healthy and delicious vegan options.
• Phong Nha Farmstay Restaurant ($$, 4.7/5) – Traditional Vietnamese meals with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Modes of Transport in Phong Nha

Rent a motorbike (~$8 USD/day) or book tours for caves.

Phong Nha Digital Nomad Rating

3.5/5: Beautiful surroundings but limited internet and coworking spaces.

Hue Itinerary

Overview

Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital, is known for its historic sites, ancient tombs, and rich culture. A fascinating stop on this two week Vietnam travel itinerary, it offers a glimpse into the country’s royal past.

How Long to Stay in Hue

1-2 days

How to Get from Phong Nha to Hue

Take a bus (~4 hours, ~$10 USD) or train (~4.5 hours, ~$15 USD).

Best Hotels to Stay in Hue

• Hostel: Why Not Hostel Hue – Budget-friendly and central.
• Budget: Hue Serene Palace Hotel – Comfortable and affordable.
• Boutique: Azerai La Residence Hue – Luxurious and historic riverside stay.

What to Do in Hue

• Visit the Imperial Citadel (~$5 USD).
• Take a boat ride on the Perfume River (~$10 USD).
• Explore the Tomb of Minh Mang (~$5 USD).
• Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda (Free).

Where to Eat in Hue

• Hanh Restaurant ($, 4.6/5) – Famous for its banh beo (steamed rice cakes) and other local dishes.
• Nina’s Cafe ($$, 4.7/5) – A cozy spot serving flavorful Vietnamese meals.
• Les Jardins de la Carambole ($$$, 4.8/5) – Elegant French-Vietnamese fusion cuisine in a colonial setting.

Modes of Transport in Hue

Rent a bike (~$5 USD/day) or take a motorbike taxi for short trips.

Hue Digital Nomad Rating

4/5: Good internet, relaxed vibe, and cultural charm.

Hoi An Itinerary

Overview

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, and scenic riverside. A highlight of this two week Vietnam travel itinerary, it’s a perfect mix of history and charm.

How Long to Stay in Hoi An

2-3 days

How to Get from Hue to Hoi An

Take a private car (~3 hours, ~$20 USD) or a bus (~4 hours, ~$10 USD). Nomadlist Hoi An

Best Hotels to Stay in Hoi An

• Hostel: Tribee Bana Hostel – Social and budget-friendly.
• Budget: Hoi An Ivy Hotel – Affordable and close to the Old Town.
• Boutique: Almanity Hoi An Wellness Resort – Stylish with wellness options.

What to Do in Hoi An

• Walk through the Ancient Town (Free, or ~$6 USD entrance fee for historic sites).
• Take a lantern-making workshop (~$10 USD).
• Cycle to An Bang Beach (Free).
• Visit the My Son Sanctuary (~$10 USD).

Where to Eat in Hoi An

• Bale Well ($, 4.7/5) – Known for banh xeo (crispy pancakes) and other Vietnamese street food.
• Morning Glory Restaurant ($$, 4.8/5) – Traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a charming space.
• The Cargo Club ($$$, 4.6/5) – Upscale dining with riverside views and a mix of Vietnamese and Western dishes.

Modes of Transport in Hoi An

Rent a bicycle (~$3 USD/day) or walk within the Old Town.

Hoi An Digital Nomad Rating

4.5/5: Excellent internet, coworking spaces, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Da Nang Itinerary

Overview

Da Nang, a modern coastal city, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and iconic landmarks like the Golden Bridge. A dynamic stop on this two week Vietnam travel itinerary, it’s a hub for relaxation and adventure.

How Long to Stay in Da Nang

1-2 days

How to Get from Hoi An to Da Nang

Take a taxi or shuttle (~1 hour, $10 USD) or rent a motorbike ($5 USD/day).

Best Hotels to Stay in Da Nang

• Boutique: Memory Hotel – Budget-friendly and stylish.
• Budget: Monarque Hotel Da Nang – Affordable with ocean views.
• Upscale: InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort – Luxurious beachfront resort.

What to Do in Da Nang

• Relax at My Khe Beach (Free).
• Visit the Marble Mountains (~$2 USD).
• Walk across the Dragon Bridge and watch the fire show (Free, Saturday/Sunday evenings).
• Take a day trip to Ba Na Hills and see the Golden Bridge (~$35 USD for entrance).

Where to Eat in Da Nang

• Mi Quang Ba Mua ($, 4.6/5) – Famous for mi quang, a flavorful noodle dish.
• Quan Com Hue Ngon ($$, 4.7/5) – Serves traditional Vietnamese comfort food.
• La Maison 1888 ($$$, 4.9/5) – Michelin-starred French dining in the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort.

Modes of Transport in Da Nang

Rent a motorbike or use Grab for short trips.

Da Nang Digital Nomad Rating

4.5/5: Fast internet, coworking spaces, and a laid-back vibe. Nomadlist Da Nang

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Itinerary

Overview

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest metropolis, is a bustling mix of historic landmarks, vibrant markets, and dynamic nightlife. A must-see on this two week Vietnam travel itinerary, it captures the country’s energy and contrasts.

How Long to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

2 days

How to Get from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City

Fly from Da Nang International Airport to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (~1.5 hours, ~$50 USD).

Best Hotels to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

• Hostel: The Common Room Project – Trendy and social.
• Budget: Silverland Yen Hotel – Affordable and central.
• Boutique: Caravelle Saigon – Historic and luxurious.

What to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

• Visit the War Remnants Museum (~$2 USD).
• Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels (~$15 USD for a guided tour).
• See the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office (Free).
• Shop at Ben Thanh Market (Free to explore).

Where to Eat in Ho Chi Minh City

• Banh Mi Huynh Hoa ($, 4.8/5) – Iconic spot for banh mi sandwiches.
• Propaganda Bistro ($$, 4.7/5) – Creative takes on Vietnamese classics in a vibrant setting.
• Noir Dining in the Dark ($$$, 4.8/5) – Unique sensory dining experience with blind servers.

Modes of Transport in Ho Chi Minh City

Use Grab for convenience or taxis for longer trips.

Ho Chi Minh City Digital Nomad Rating

4.5/5: Excellent internet, coworking spaces, and an active expat community. Nomadlist Ho Chi Minh City

Mekong Delta Itinerary

Overview

The Mekong Delta, Vietnam’s “rice bowl,” is a serene region of winding rivers, floating markets, and lush landscapes. A relaxing finale to this two week Vietnam travel itinerary, it showcases rural life.

How Long to Stay in the Mekong Delta

1-2 days

How to Get from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta

Take a bus or private car to Can Tho (~4 hours, ~$10 USD).

Best Hotels to Stay in the Mekong Delta

• Hostel: Winter Spring Homestay – Affordable and cozy.
• Budget: Mekong Rustic Can Tho – Riverside with local charm.
• Boutique: Azerai Can Tho – Luxury resort on a private islet.

What to Do in the Mekong Delta

• Visit the Cai Rang Floating Market (~$15 USD for a boat tour).
• Explore Tra Su Cajuput Forest (~$10 USD).
• Take a boat ride through the canals (Included in tours).

Where to Eat in the Mekong Delta

• Sao Hom ($$, 4.6/5) – Local specialties served in a traditional Mekong riverside setting.
• Luong Son Floating Restaurant ($$, 4.5/5) – Scenic dining on the water with a focus on fresh fish.
• The Island Lodge Restaurant ($$$, 4.7/5) – Elegant dining with French-Vietnamese fusion dishes.

Modes of Transport in the Mekong Delta

Hire a boat for exploring; motorbike taxis are also available for short trips.

Mekong Delta Digital Nomad Rating

3.5/5: Scenic but limited internet and coworking spaces.

Extend your trip

Continue your trip by joining it to the Two Week Cambodia Travel Itinerary by taking the Mekong River cruise from Chau Doc in the Mekong Delta to Phnom Penh (~5 hours, ~$40 USD). Enjoy a scenic boat ride and enter Cambodia directly along the river before starting the itinerary in Phnom Penh.