3 Weeks in Vietnam: An Adventure from North to South with Insider Tips

Get ready for an adventure of 3 weeks in Vietnam that takes you from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc. This guide will take you through the must-see destinations, share insider tips on local life, and help you navigate everything from transportation to dining like a pro.

So, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey through this incredible country, from the north’s misty mountains to the south’s sunny shores!

Why The 3-week Trip Is Ideal

Time To Soak In The Culture

Vietnam is a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavors, and a 3-week trip is perfect for truly immersing yourself in its culture. With three weeks, you’ll have the breathing room to experience Vietnam like a local rather than a tourist snapping photos on the go. From Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets to learning to roll fresh spring rolls in Ho Chi Minh City, every moment becomes a memory – and you won’t feel rushed.

A Perfect Mix of Adventure and Relaxation

With 21 days, you can blend Vietnam’s thrilling adventures with laid-back downtime. Trek through the terraced rice fields of Sapa, take a motorbike ride through the Hai Van Pass (a route even Jeremy Clarkson called “a ribbon of perfection”), spend a lazy afternoon cruising the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, plus, enjoy beach days on Phu Quoc Island to recharge. A shorter trip would force you to prioritize, but three weeks gives you enough time to do everything without burning out.

The Best Value For Your Travel Dollar

Vietnam is a budget traveler’s dream. Three weeks allow you to make the most of its affordability. Street food meals for under $2, overnight trains to save on accommodations, and affordable guided tours mean you can splurge on experiences without breaking the bank. Stretching your stay lets you explore more regions while keeping costs low. It’s the perfect balance of frugal and fabulous.

A 3-week trip is perfect for all Vietnam’s highlights from north to south

>> Read More: Vietnam Holiday Packages Including Flights: Comprehensive Guide

Explore Vietnam: Week-By-Week Itinerary

Week 1: Urban Explorations and Natural Wonders in the North

Route: Hanoi – Sapa – Ninh Binh – Halong Bay

Must-do activities

• Explore the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex in Hanoi.
• Wander the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and try street food like pho and banh mi.
• Visit Huu Tiep Lake and the B52 crash site for a unique historical perspective.
• Trek through the rice terraces of Sapa, meeting local ethnic groups.
• Sail through the surreal limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay on an overnight cruise.
• Cycle through Tam Coc in Ninh Binh, often called “Ha Long Bay on land.”
• Visit ancient temples like Bich Dong Pagoda in Ninh Binh.
• Witness a traditional water puppet show in Hanoi.
• Sip on Egg Coffee at a local café overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake.

Local tips

• In Sapa, pack layers for cooler evenings, especially in the winter months.
• Opt for smaller, locally-run Ha Long Bay cruises for a more intimate experience.
• Visit Ninh Binh early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene landscape.

Explore Hanoi’s charm, Sapa’s rice terraces, and Ha Long Bay’s stunning limestone karsts.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival

• Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city, and check into your hotel. Relax and get acclimatized to the bustling atmosphere of this vibrant city.
• In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner in the Old Quarter, where you can try iconic dishes like pho and bun cha. Consider rounding off the day with a traditional water puppet show—a unique Vietnamese cultural experience.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour

Morning:

• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the revered resting place of the nation’s founding father. Explore the House on Stilts and One Pillar Pagoda, which reflect the nation’s historical roots.
• Take a stroll through Huu Tiep Lake and visit the B52 Crash Site, a site of great historical significance.
• Learn about Vietnam’s rich cultural diversity at the Museum of Ethnology, which showcases the customs and traditions of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups.
• Grab a bowl of Pho at a local spot—it’s the perfect introduction to Hanoi’s street food culture.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, which is dedicated to Confucius and celebrates scholarly achievements.
• Head to Hoa Lo Prison, known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” to get a glimpse of Vietnam’s wartime history.
• Hop on a cyclo (pedicab) to tour the French Quarter, with its colonial-style buildings like the Opera House and the Metropole Hotel.
• For a sweet treat, enjoy an Egg Coffee at a café overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake.
• End the day with a walking tour of the Old Quarter, where you can sample green papaya salad, banh mi, and bun cha—truly embracing the vibrant culinary scene.

>> Read More: Best Recommendations For An Authentic Food Tour In Hanoi

Day 3: Hanoi – Morning Drive to Sapa – Afternoon Sightseeing

• Enjoy a morning drive to Sapa, a picturesque mountain town in the northwest of Vietnam.
• After checking in, spend the afternoon sightseeing. Visit Cat Cat Village to see the traditional houses of the H’mong people and enjoy the stunning landscapes.
• Explore Sapa Town and its markets, full of locally made textiles and handicrafts.

>> Read More: Explore 9 Best Things To Do In Sapa Besides Trekking

Day 4: Explore Ma Tra Village – Overnight Train Back to Hanoi

• Start the day early and take a trek to Ma Tra Village, a peaceful spot surrounded by rice terraces. Here, you’ll meet the local H’mong people and get a closer look at their culture.
• In the afternoon, return to Sapa Town for some relaxation before catching an overnight train back to Hanoi.

Day 5: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Hoa Lu Ancient Capital – Tam Coc

• After arriving back in Hanoi, travel to Ninh Binh to explore the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, once the heart of Vietnam’s political power.
• Take a boat ride through Tam Coc, also known as “Halong Bay on land,” to see the spectacular karst landscape along the Ngo Dong River.
• Visit Bich Dong Pagoda, a serene spot nestled between limestone cliffs, before heading back to Hanoi.

Day 6: Hanoi – Halong Bay – Overnight on Board

• Take an early morning drive to Halong Bay for a stunning cruise around the bay’s towering limestone islands.
• Enjoy activities such as kayaking, swimming, and exploring Sung Sot Cave.
• Spend the night on a cruise ship, watching the sunset over the bay—an experience that will stay with you long after the trip ends.

Day 7: Halong Bay – Hanoi

• Wake up to a peaceful morning in Halong Bay and enjoy a sunrise Tai Chi session on the deck.
• After breakfast, explore a final island or cave before cruising back to the mainland.
• Return to Hanoi by afternoon for your onward journey, whether you’re heading south or relaxing for a few more days in the capital.

>> See Tour: Hanoi Sapa Halong Bay Ninh Binh Tour

Week 2: Coastal Charm and History in Central Vietnam

Route: Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An – An Bang Beach – My Khe Beach

Must-do activities

• Visit the Hue Imperial City and Imperial Tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty
• Explore Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic riverside pagoda
• Take a boat cruise on the Perfume River
• Visit the Dong Ba Market for local handicrafts and snacks
• Check out the Marble Mountains and My Khe Beach
• Stroll through Han River Bridge and the vibrant Dragon Bridge
• Visit the Cham Museum, home to ancient Cham sculptures
• Wander around the Old Town and visit Japanese Covered Bridge
• Take a cooking class to learn how to make Cao Lau and white rose dumplings
• Visit My Khe Beach in Da Nang, famous for its fine sand and calm waves
• Discover An Bang Beach, a tranquil alternative to the busier beaches

Discover Hue’s history, Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, and Da Nang’s Golden Bridge marvel.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 8: Hue Arrival

• Arrive in Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, and check into your hotel.
• Spend the afternoon visiting the Imperial City (Citadel), a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can walk through the grand gates and courtyards.
• Enjoy dinner by the Perfume River, savoring local dishes like Bánh Khoái (Vietnamese pancakes) and Bún Bò Huế (spicy beef noodle soup).

Day 9: Hue Sightseeing

Morning:

• Start with a visit to the Imperial Tombs, including Khai Dinh Tomb and Tu Duc Tomb, which showcase stunning architecture and elaborate carvings.
• Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, a serene riverside site where you can learn about its importance in Vietnamese Buddhism.
• Take a short boat trip along the Perfume River, offering scenic views of the city and its historic landmarks.

Afternoon:

• Head to Dong Ba Market, a great spot to pick up local handicrafts, silk, and traditional snacks.
• In the late afternoon, relax by the Perfume River, watching the sunset from a riverside café before enjoying Hue’s lively food scene in the evening.

Day 10: Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An

• Depart from Hue and drive south to Da Nang, stopping at the scenic Hai Van Pass for panoramic views of the coastline.
• Once in Da Nang, explore the Marble Mountains, which offer stunning caves and pagodas, and enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
• Afterward, head to My Khe Beach, famous for its calm waters and fine white sand—perfect for a swim or a relaxed afternoon by the sea.
• Finish the day with a visit to the Dragon Bridge at night, a sight to behold when it lights up in vibrant colors.

>> Explore Now: Top 10 Unusual Things to Do in Hue With Local Guide

Day 11: Hoi An Old Town

• Spend the day exploring Hoi An Old Town, one of Vietnam’s most charming destinations. Wander through narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, quaint shops, and vibrant lanterns.
• Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of the town’s rich history, and explore its surrounding shops selling local crafts.
• Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare classic Hoi An dishes such as Cao Lau noodles and white rose dumplings.
• In the late afternoon, head to An Bang Beach to unwind on its quiet shores and enjoy a peaceful sunset.

Day 12: Hoi An – An Bang Beach – My Khe Beach

• Start the day with a visit to An Bang Beach, just a short bike ride from Hoi An’s Old Town. Enjoy the tranquility of this lesser-known beach, far from the crowds.
• Enjoy your final evening in Hoi An, exploring the night market and sampling local treats like Banh Bao Banh Vac (dumplings).

Day 13: Da Nang Departure

• After a relaxing breakfast, head to Da Nang and explore the vibrant city before your departure. Visit the Cham Museum, home to ancient Cham sculptures and artifacts.
• If time permits, take a walk along the Han River Bridge and enjoy the city’s relaxed vibe before heading to the airport for your onward journey.

>> Read More: 15 Da Nang Tourist Attractions That Will Make You Fall In Love With This City

Week 3: Dynamic Southern Vietnam – From City Life to Island Bliss

Route: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta – Phu Quoc

Must-do activities

• Explore the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace
• Visit the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office
• Stroll through the bustling Ben Thanh Market
• Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about Vietnam’s war history
• Take a boat ride through the Mekong River
• Visit floating markets like Cai Rang
• Explore the village of My Tho for local craftsmanship
• Relax at Long Beach or take a snorkeling trip to An Thoi Islands
• Explore the Vinpearl Safari
• Visit the Dinh Cau Night Market

Southern Vietnam offers bustling city life in Ho Chi Minh City and tranquility on Phu Quoc Island.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City Arrival

• Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), formerly known as Saigon, the bustling heart of Vietnam. Check into your hotel and take the evening to wander around the Dong Khoi Street, lined with cafes and shops.
• Enjoy dinner at a local pho restaurant, followed by drinks at a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the skyline.

Day 15: Explore Ho Chi Minh City

Morning:

• Start the day with a visit to the War Remnants Museum, where you’ll gain deep insights into the history of the Vietnam War.
• Head to the Reunification Palace, a historical site that marks the end of the war in 1975.
• Afterward, stroll through the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral and the nearby Central Post Office, both of which showcase French colonial architecture.

Afternoon:

• Visit Ben Thanh Market for a lively local shopping experience. Here, you can pick up souvenirs or try some street food like banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes).
• In the late afternoon, take a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, just outside of HCMC. These underground tunnels offer a glimpse into the wartime ingenuity of the Viet Cong.

Day 16: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta

• Depart early for the Mekong Delta, a tranquil network of rivers, swamps, and islands.
• Take a boat ride through the winding waterways, and explore the floating markets of Cai Rang. The bustling yet peaceful atmosphere here gives you a unique insight into local life.
• Cycle around small towns and villages like My Tho to experience rural life up close, from traditional crafts to peaceful coconut groves.

>> See Tour: The Best of Mekong Delta Tour

Day 17: Mekong Delta – Phu Quoc

• Travel from the Mekong Delta to Phu Quoc, an island known for its stunning beaches and clear waters.
• Check into your resort and spend the rest of the day unwinding on Long Beach—a serene spot to relax and enjoy the sunset.

Day 18: Explore Phu Quoc

Morning:

• Visit the Vinpearl Safari, home to over 3,000 animals from around the world. It’s an eco-friendly park and a great place for animal lovers.
• Take a leisurely stroll around the Dinh Cau Night Market in the evening to sample fresh seafood and browse for local souvenirs.

Afternoon:

• Head out for a snorkeling trip to the An Thoi Islands, known for its vibrant coral reefs and clear blue waters. Spend the day swimming and exploring the underwater world.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a scooter to explore the quieter parts of the island, where you’ll find secluded beaches and hidden gems.

Day 19: Phu Quoc Leisure Day

• Enjoy a day of leisure in Phu Quoc. Spend the morning by the beach, and perhaps indulge in a beachfront massage to unwind.
• Consider visiting a local pepper farm or exploring the surrounding jungle to see the island’s natural beauty up close.

Day 20: Phu Quoc – Ho Chi Minh City

• Fly back to Ho Chi Minh City for your last day in Vietnam.
• Take a stroll down Bui Vien Street, a vibrant spot known for its nightlife.
• Enjoy a final Vietnamese meal, such as com tam (broken rice), before heading to the airport.

Day 21: Departure

• After your exciting journey through southern Vietnam, it’s time to say goodbye. Depending on your flight, you can squeeze in some last-minute shopping at local boutiques or relax at a café before heading to the airport for your departure.

>> You might love this tour: Southern Vietnam Tour Discovery

Tips for Getting Around Vietnam Efficiently

Transportation modes

• Buses: Affordable and common for short and long-distance travel. Prices range from VND 100,000 – 500,000 (approx. $4 – $20) depending on distance and comfort.
• Trains: Ideal for scenic routes, especially the Reunification Express from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Prices for a soft seat are around VND 350,000 – 1,000,000 ($15 – $40).
• Flights: Fast but pricier. Domestic flights like Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City cost around VND 1,000,000 – 3,000,000 ($40 – $120) depending on timing and airline.
• Motorbikes: The most popular mode for locals and tourists looking to explore cities or rural areas. Rentals typically cost VND 100,000 – 200,000/day ($4 – $8).

Travel hacks for long-haul journeys

• Skip taxis and use Grab (the local ride-hailing app) for affordable, convenient rides within cities. Prices typically start around $1 USD (25,000 VND) for short trips.
• Take overnight buses or trains for long-haul journeys to maximize sightseeing time during the day. This is a great way to travel from one major city to another without losing a day.
• Purchase a local SIM card for $5 to $10 USD (100,000-250,000 VND) to access cheap data and stay connected, avoiding international roaming fees.
• Travel during the weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds and get cheaper tickets. Popular routes like Hanoi to Halong Bay can be packed during weekends.

>> Read more: Transportation in Vietnam – A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Packing Guide for a 3-Week Vietnam Adventure 

Vietnam spans over 1,000 miles, so you’ll experience a range of climates. In the north, places like Sapa and Hanoi can get quite cool, especially from November to March. Pack a lightweight jacket or fleece for those chilly evenings. 

In contrast, the central and southern regions, such as Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City, are warm and humid year-round. Here, breathable cotton shirts and shorts are your best friends. Don’t forget a compact rain jacket or poncho—sudden downpours are common, especially during the rainy season.

Tips for packing light and staying fresh

• Pack for one week only: Vietnam’s affordable laundry services mean you can wash your clothes regularly, so there’s no need to overpack. Most guesthouses and hotels offer laundry for just a few dollars.
• Use packing cubes: These are lifesavers for staying organized. Separate your clothes into categories (shirts, pants, underwear) to save time and space.
• Opt for versatile clothing: Choose neutral colors and items that can be mixed and matched. A pair of lightweight pants can double for hiking and casual dinners.
• Bring quick-dry fabrics: Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes dry faster, especially in Vietnam’s humid climate. Perfect if you need to hand wash on the go.
• Roll instead of fold: Rolling clothes not only saves space but also minimizes wrinkles, keeping you looking fresh without an iron.
• Carry a small laundry kit: A travel-sized detergent and a sink stopper let you hand wash essentials if needed.
• Include a reusable tote bag: Great for separating dirty laundry or carrying souvenirs during your day trips.
• Limit footwear to 2 pairs: A sturdy walking shoe and a lightweight sandal are all you’ll need for diverse terrains and climates.

Must-haves for a smooth adventure

• Comfortable walking shoes: Whether you’re trekking in Sapa, wandering Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, or exploring bustling markets, a good pair of walking shoes is a lifesaver. Look for something breathable and durable.
• Sunscreen: Vietnam’s tropical sun can be unforgiving, especially in the south. A high-SPF sunscreen will keep you from burning during beach days or motorbike adventures.
• Insect repellent: Mosquitoes, particularly in rural and southern regions, can be relentless. Pack a DEET-based repellent or one with citronella for effective protection.
• Universal power adapter: Vietnam uses Type A, C, and G plugs. A universal adapter ensures you can charge your gadgets anywhere. Bonus points for one with USB ports!
• Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated in Vietnam’s humid climate is crucial. Many hostels and cafes offer water refill stations so you can save money and reduce plastic waste.
• Copies of important documents: Always carry a photocopy or digital backup of your passport, visa, and travel insurance details. It’s a lifesaver in case of emergencies.
• Quick-dry towel: Compact and versatile, it’s perfect for beach days, surprise rain showers, or wiping off sweat after a long trek.

>> Read More: How To Plan A Trip To Vietnam – 7 Easy Steps To Follow

Personalized Tours for Your 3-Week Vietnam Adventure

Spending 3 weeks in Vietnam offers the perfect blend of vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and rich history, from the cool northern highlands to the tropical southern islands. Whether you’re exploring Hanoi’s ancient streets, cruising through Halong Bay, or unwinding on Phu Quoc’s beaches, there’s something for every traveler. With local tips and unique experiences, you will make the most of your adventure.

Ready to dive in? Asia Pioneer Travel offers personalized tour options to help you experience the best of Vietnam at your own pace. Get in touch with our travel designers and plan your next unforgettable journey today!