Vietnam Itinerary 5 Days: 7 Best Travel Routes to Explore Vietnam

Vietnam has a wealth of cultural wonders, natural landscapes, and vibrant cities to explore. Planning a 5-day itinerary in Vietnam can be challenging with so many stunning destinations to choose from. Travel the country from north to south, take a deep dive into one of its many fascinating regions, or go beach hopping to escape the bustle of modern life.

From the mountainous north to southern beaches, this guide will present the best 7 travel itineraries for a 5-day adventure across Vietnam.

#1 Vietnam Itinerary 5 Days: Experience the Northern Natural Beauty of Vietnam (Hanoi & Halong Bay)

Hanoi and Halong Bay in the north of Vietnam are must-see destinations for first-time visitors. Northern Vietnam has major attractions for learning about Vietnamese history and culture and experiencing its natural wonders.

Hanoi, the capital city, prides itself on preserving its cultural heritage. Sites like the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum educate visitors on ancient and modern Vietnamese history. The iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple are a relaxing oasis within the city, connected to traditional legends.

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Soak up the vibrant city culture in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where traditional shops, trendy cafes, and art spaces line the winding alleys. Dong Xuan Market is a shopping paradise for souvenirs, foodstuffs, and goods of all kinds. The famous Ta Hien Beer Street is a center for nightlife and meeting other travelers and locals.

Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s premier destinations. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is a magnificent natural wonder with limestone karsts soaring out of its emerald waters. An overnight Halong Bay cruise is the best way to experience it. The cruise takes visitors island hopping to explore beaches, trails, and caves. You can enjoy a dinner of freshly caught seafood and take part in water activities like swimming and kayaking.

5 Days Hanoi and Halong Bay Cruise

Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise

# 2 Vietnam Itinerary 5 Days: Explore the Hill Tribe Heritage - Sapa

The mountainous northern region of Sapa is a trekking paradise and an amazing place to see the cultural tapestry of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities. Each day, you can set out to trek the surrounding villages, encountering new cultures in every location.

The Sapa trekking routes pass through the iconic terraced rice fields on the way to villages like Cat Cat, Lao Chai, and Ta Van. Experience the culture of the Hmong, Day, and Tay people, seeing their traditions and learning about local handicrafts.

Trekking through Rice Terraces in Sapa tour.

Fansipan Mountain is a must-see in the region. It’s the highest peak in Indochina, with amazing views of the rolling hills and villages of Sapa. Adventurous travelers can trek to the peak or take the cable car to the top for amazing panoramic views along the way.

Sapa can be reached by road or train from Hanoi. The overnight train is a convenient option and an authentic local experience. The trains offer comfortable accommodations, and you’ll arrive early and refreshed, ready to start exploring.

6 Days Trekking Through the Majestic Mountains of Sapa

Hanoi - Lao Cai - Sapa - Hanoi

# 3 Vietnam Itinerary 5 Days: Immersed in the Central Legacies - Hue & Hoi An

Central Vietnam stands out from the north and south with its well-preserved historical legacies and stunning natural surroundings.

Da Nang is the most convenient arrival point. It’s the most vibrant city in the region and nestled between beautiful beaches and mountains. Explore the city’s attractions like the Golden Bridge and the 27m high Buddha statue at Ling Ung Pagoda. My Khe Beach and the Marble Mountains are great destinations to escape from the urban bustle.

Hue is the former imperial capital of Vietnam and the seat of power for the Nguyen Dynasty. Hue Capital City is a UNESCO Heritage Site that preserves the grand architecture of the royal dynasty. The resting places of Nguyen kings can be seen at royal tombs like Tu Doc. Take a dragon boat cruise on the perfume river to relax amid the peaceful landscapes and sample the distinct Hue imperial cuisine.

Hue Imperial City

Hoi An is the other main destination in central Vietnam. The charming city preserves the atmosphere of an ancient trading port town. The diverse influences on the city can be seen at the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Chinese-inspired Chua Ong Pagoda. Visit during the full moon to see the Hoi An Lantern Festival when the ancient town is filled with a magical atmosphere of colored lanterns.

10 Days Central Vietnam Beach Relaxing & Culinary Tour

Da Nang - Hue - Hoi An - Nha Trang - Mui Ne - Da Lat - Da Nang

# 4 Vietnam Itinerary 5 Days: Relaxing on the Leisurely Southern Vietnam (Phu Quoc Island, Nha Trang, or Da Nang)

Vietnam’s beaches are less famous than Thailand's but offer world-class beaches and clear, blue waters. Each beach destination is also surrounded by natural attractions and cultural sites for a deep experience of local culture. Spend five days in one place for a tranquil getaway or beach hop between them to see the wonders of the south.

Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s tropical island paradise and offers visa-entry entry for people arriving by air. The island is famous for its powdery, white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Phu Quoc National Park has great trekking routes and scenic landscapes. Local night markets are some of the best places to try freshly caught seafood after a day of snorkeling, diving, or lounging by the sea.

Nha Trang
Nha Trang is one of the most popular beach destinations in Vietnam. The vibrant coastal city has beautiful beaches and inland natural attractions like Yang Bay Waterfall. Hon Mun Island is a gem for nature enthusiasts with thriving coral reefs and great diving. The famous mud baths on Hon Tam Island help visitors with the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich mud.

Vietnam Nha Trang beach tour.

Da Nang
Da Nang is a hotspot for beach holidays and cultural exploration. My Khe is the most famous beach, but up and down the coast, places like Bac My An and Non Nuoc Beach offer beautiful scenery for water activities or relaxation.

You can also visit the ancient woodlands of the Son Tra Peninsula or trek the Marble Mountains. Cultural sites like the Linh Ung Pagoda and Da Nang Cathedral are a fascinating look into local history.

# 5 Vietnam Itinerary 5 Days: Explore the Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City and Mekong Delta

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam and a gateway to the Mekong Delta. The thriving southern area of Vietnam enjoys a stable climate year-round and is home to traditional river culture.

Ho Chi Minh’s iconic architecture includes well-preserved colonial buildings like the Old Saigon Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels and Reunification Palace to learn about the history of the Vietnam War. At night, Check out Nguyen Hue Walking Street to see the vibrant city culture or enjoy an evening cruise on the Saigon River.

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) Notre Dame Cathedral

Set off through miles of rice fields on the way to My Tho to board a Mekong cruise to Thoi Son Island. The island is home to traditional culture including music and rice-wine making. Take a boat along the Can Tho River to see the thriving river culture, and visit Cai Rang Floating Market.

# 6 Vietnam Itinerary 5 Days: Discover the Ultimate Vietnam from North to South

Over five days, you can enjoy a whirlwind tour of Vietnam from north to south. You can see many important sites and get a taste of the cultural diversity across the country. It’s enough time to see the highlights of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and take a Halong Bay Cruise.

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is the perfect place to experience local city culture. Walking through the winding alleyway reveals traditional shop fronts, trendy cafes and art spaces, and authentic local restaurants around every corner.

Halong Bay is a must-visit destination on any tour of top attractions in Vietnam. An overnight cruise of the bay is a chance to see the magnificent limestone karst formations rising out of the water. Enjoy fun water activities and explore famous islands like Titov and Tuan Chau Island.

Halong Bay Blue Lagoon Cruises

In Ho Chi Minh City you can learn about the tragic history of the Vietnam War at the Cu Chi Tunnels and War Remnants Museum. Cruise the Saigon River on an evening dinner cruise, or head to Bui Vien Walking Street, where the food and fun carry on throughout the night.

# 7 Vietnam Itinerary 5 Days: Cover the Essence of Vietnam and Cambodia

Vietnam is an excellent gateway to Cambodia and the unforgettable Angkor Wat Archeological Park. You see the essence of both countries and come away with memories that will last a lifetime.

Start in Ho Chi Minh City with a tour of its colonial architecture and bustling markets. A day tour will take you to My Tho, exploring the Mekong Delta. Cottage industries along the river produce tasty local treats like honey tea and coconut candy milk. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels before flying to Siem Reap for a profound experience learning about the life of Vietnamese guerilla soldiers during the war.

Ho Chi Minh city street food.

Siem Reap is a vibrant city best known as the gateway to Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat deserves at least a full day. Arrive early for the breathtaking sight of the sun rising over the temple complex. Explore Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat itself, a replica of the Hindu universe intricately carved in stone. You can also take a day trip to Tonle Sap Lake for the beautiful scenery and floating villages.

6 Days Glance of Vietnam and Cambodia

Saigon - Siem Reap

Conclusion

A 5-day trip to Vietnam can be a focused and rich experience of the country’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring the northern landscapes, central heritage, or southern vibrancy, each region offers unique attractions.

For those with more adventurous spirits, cross-border itineraries like Vietnam and Cambodia tours provide a chance to dive into even more history and wonder. No matter your interests, we can personalize a Vietnam travel itinerary for an unforgettable experience in this Southeast Asian gem. Contact us anytime for more information, and start planning your tour today.