Vietnam Package Tours: 3-Week Itinerary Across Regions

Week 1: Northern Vietnam – Culture, History & Mountains

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – Gateway to Northern Charm

Morning:

• Arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi
• Private transfer by car to the hotel in the Old Quarter.
• Smooth check-in and refresh following flight.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a casual walk around the hotel area to get your first glimpse of Hanoi’s urban life.
• Sit down at a nearby cafe to have your first-ever egg coffee, a Hanoi favorite.

Evening:

• Take a gentle stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, appreciating its lively street life.
• Stop by a street vendor to pick up a quick, delicious banh mi or a steaming bowl of pho.
• Optional: Investigate on Friday evening if your arrival falls on a weekend in Pekanbaru.

Day 2: Hanoi – Dive Deep into Culture and Flavors

Morning:

• Stop by the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to see where the body of Vietnam’s popular leader has been preserved.
• Stop by the gardens of the Presidential Palace and the One Pillar Pagoda, a historic landmark.
• Proceed to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, constructed around 1,000 years ago.

Afternoon:

• Stop by the Hoa Lo Prison Museum, where you can learn about the horrific history of the Vietnam War.
• Discover the refined colonial-era architecture of the French Quarter.
• Stop by the Fine Arts Museum or ride a cyclo along the narrow streets of the Old Quarter a travel must among things to see in Vietnam.
  

Evening:

• Set off on a culinary Vietnamese street food tour – eat bun cha, pork skewers grilled to perfection, sweet sticky rice, and, of course, additional banh mi!
• Finish the evening by experiencing a Water Puppet Show, an ageless form of art indigenous to northern Vietnam.

Day 3: Hanoi – Scenic Day Trip or Local Leisure

Morning:

• (Option 1) Make a side trip to Ninh Binh, a land version of Halong Bay, where golden rice paddies are set against towering limestone cliffs.
  • Relax on a peaceful boat trip through Trang An or Tam Coc caves.
  • Stop by Bich Dong Pagoda, which sits atop a karst mountain.
• (Option 2) Explore Hanoi leisurely: Visit Long Bien Bridge, the Hanoi Opera House, and discover Train Street.

Afternoon:

• In Ninh Binh, trek up to Mua Cave to have a panoramic view of the vast countryside.
• While in Hanoi, visit Dong Xuan Market to buy local souvenirs, or unwind at a cafe near a lake.

Evening:

• Back to Hanoi.
• Free time to discover Hanoi’s vibrant night market, enjoy more street food, or indulge in a rooftop bar view of the Old Quarter.

Day 4: Hanoi → Halong Bay – Cruise the Emerald Waters

Morning:

• Leave Hanoi by private vehicle to Halong Bay (approximately 2.5 hours).
• Make your way to Tuan Chau Marina and board your luxury overnight cruise.

Afternoon:

• Savour a fresh seafood lunch as you glide by giant limestone karsts.
• Discover the awe-inspiring Sung Sot Cave, a stunningly enormous cave found among the largest of Halong Bay’s caves.
• Swim or trek to the summit of Titop Island for a breathtaking panorama.

Evening:

• Enjoy a Vietnamese cooking lesson onboard.
• Enjoy a meal by starlight, served from a fresh seafood menu.
• Try squid fishing, or do nothing more than sit back in the sundeck, basking in the enchanting evening over this UNESCO Heritage Site.

Day 5: Halong Bay → Hanoi – Morning Tranquility and Return

Morning:

• Rise early to a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, inhaling crisp morning mist.
• Explore Luon Cave by bamboo boat, drifting serenely through secluded lagoons and limestone arches.
• Savor a warm brunch while the cruise comes back into port.

Afternoon:

• Disembark and transfer back to Hanoi.
• Check into the hotel; have some downtime after traveling.

Evening:

• Optional: Casual stroll to the Old Quarter.
• Experience Hanoi’s famous grilled fish at Cha Ca La Vong, or enjoy a tranquil evening at a charming jazz club.

Day 6: Hanoi → Sapa – Into the Misty Highlands

Morning:

• Early morning transfer by luxury limousine bus to Sapa (around 5.5 hours).
• Embrace the stunning vistas of the Red River Delta and winding mountain passes on the route.

Afternoon:

• Check into a hotel in Sapa.
• Stop by Cat Cat Village, a picturesque Hmong village complete with wooden houses, waterfalls, and handicrafts.
• Stroll beside picturesque gardens and rice fields.

Evening:

• Theza Walk around the Sapa town square and the local markets. 
• Warm yourself up by having a hotpot or grilled skewers at Sapa Night Market, a popular choice among locals as well as tourists.

Day 7: Sapa – Full-Day Trekking Adventure

Morning:

• Get to know your guide for this guided, full-day trekking Vietnam adventure tour.
• Walk through stunning landscapes to Lao Chai Village and Ta Van Village.
• Cross suspension bridges, rivers, and vast green rice fields, while engaging in encounters with indigenous minority communities such as Black H’Mong and Giay people.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a nearby homestay, having simple but flavorful homemade food.
• Continue trekking along verdant valleys and scattered forests of small bamboo.

Evening:

• Back to Sapa town.
• (Optionally) For a more immersive cultural experience, opt to stay overnight at a homestay in a traditional homestead in Ta Van Village.
• Otherwise, spend a warm evening in your hotel room with a mountain view, ready to move on to the next exciting pages of your Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks.

Week 2: Central Vietnam – Heritage Towns and Beach Escapes

Day 8: Hanoi → Dong Hoi – Enter the Land of Caves

Morning:

• Catch a brief domestic flight from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, the gateway to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park.
• Private transfer to your hotel close to Phong Nha village.

Afternoon:

• Embark on a thrilling boat tour to Phong Nha Cave.
• Float through an underground river, admire giant stalactites, and discover unseen grottoes, a thrill for those who enjoy Vietnam adventure tours.
• Walk into the dry chambers to witness historic stone formation.s
  

Evening:

• Unwind at your lodge amidst tranquil countryside scenes.
• Grill pork skewers to have a quick dinner. Serve with sticky rice.
• Early rest ahead of an exciting tomorrow morning!

Day 9: Phong Nha – Paradise Beneath the Earth

Morning:

• Go to Paradise Cave, also known as the “underground palace."
• Walk along 1 kilometer-long boardwalks that lead to stunning crystalline formations.
• If you’re adventurous, enhance your experience by taking a guided 7 km trekking expedition inside!

Afternoon:

• ( Optional) Select a rush-inducing tour: Dark Cave mud bathing and ziplining adventure.
• Paddle through the caves, drift through underground rivers – truly unforgettable experiences to include on your Vietnam three week itinerary.

Evening:

• Free time to discover Phong Nha Village.
• Savor local river fish cuisine while enjoying views of idyllic farmland.
• Get a good rest before traveling further into central Vietnam tomorrow.

Day 10: Dong Hoi → Hue – Imperial Wonders Await

Morning:

• Leave Dong Hoi by private vehicle (around 3.5 hours), following along the picturesque coastline and rice fields.
• Check in at your hotel in Hue upon arrival.

Afternoon:

• Stop by at the imposing Imperial City (Citadel), a vast walled compound constructed by Nguyen dynasty rulers.
• Stroll through palaces, gates, and pavilions – several of which are designated a UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Evening:

• Ride on a classic dragon boat during a sunset cruise along the Perfume River.
• Hear folk music performances while lights flicker along the riverbank.
• Enjoy a royal dinner featuring Hue specialties such as banh beo and nem lui

Day 11: Hue – History, Temples, and Tranquility

Morning:

• Stop by the graceful Thien Mu Pagoda, a centuries-old religious monument that overlooks the river.
• Proceed to Emperor Khai Dinh’s tomb, a masterpiece of architecture that harmonizes Eastern and Western inspirations.

Afternoon:

• Discover Dong Ba Market to soak up the lively atmosphere of the locals and shop for silk scarves, conical hats, and spices – all a necessity when making your Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks travel a success.

Evening:

• Free time to unwind.
• Optional: Stop by the vibrant night market along Truong Tien Bridge to indulge in sweet sesame candies and browse crafts from locals.

Day 12: Hue → Da Nang → Hoi An – From Mountains to Lanterns

Morning:

• Leave Hue and drive across the legendary Hai Van Pass – one of Asia’s most dramatic coastal routes.
• Stop at the top for panoramic views before descending into Da Nang.

Afternoon:

• Explore the majestic Marble Mountains, a range of limestone hills filled with temples and caves.
• Walk along My Khe Beach, consistently ranked as one of the world’s most gorgeous beach destinations.
• Proceed to Hoi An and stay at your lovely boutique hotel.

Evening:

• Stroll through Hoi An Old Town, bathed in vibrant lantern lights.
• Try some iconic dishes like cao lau noodles or sizzling white rose dumplings during a Vietnamese street food tour along the town’s backstreets and riverfront restaurants.

Day 13: Hoi An – Cultural Immersion and Beach Relaxation

Morning:

• Participate in a hands-on cooking class: begin by buying ingredients at a nearby marketplace, then learn to make authentic Vietnamese dishes from scratch.
• Master the technique of spring rolls, banana flower salad, and grilled pork skewers!

Afternoon:

• (Option 1) Chill at An Bang Beach, basking in sunshine and relishing sea-fresh seafood by the shore.
• (Option 2) Day trip to mystical My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to discover what remains of the ancient culture of the Cham one of many things to see in Vietnam.

Evening:

• Free time to spend a further evening walking around Hoi An’s lamplit streets.
• Stop by Banh Mi Phuong, where you can treat yourself to a final Hoi An-style banh mi, a favorite of Anthony Bourdain’s!
• Get ready for the next stage of your grand Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks trip as you head towards southern Vietnam’s beach paradise!

Week 3: Southern Vietnam – Modern Cities and River Life

Day 14: Hoi An → Quy Nhon – Vietnam’s Coastal Secret

Morning:

• Leave Hoi An and head south to Quy Nhon, a gem in southern Vietnam for those looking for unspoiled shores and genuine culture.
• Stay in a beachside resort room overlooking turquoise sea views.

Afternoon:

• I’m proceeding to Ky Co Beach, a paradise of white sands bordered by cliffs and clear waters. 
• Cool off by taking a dip, sunbathing, or jet-skiing along the bay!  

Evening:

• Experience a new seafood barbecue by the sea, sea snails, grilled squid, and prawns from around are a necessity. 
• Optional: Take a stroll along the windswept seafront promenade as the sun sets on this peaceful gem of your Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks.

Day 15: Quy Nhon – Coastal Views and Ancient Towers

Morning:

• Stop by the stunning Eo Gio cliffs, where sheer cliffs drop into the ocean, a photographer’s top destination!
• Continue to the remnants of the old Champa civilization, Thap Doi Cham Towers, standing tall amidst palm trees.

Afternoon:

• Savor a casual seafood lunch at a beachside shack.
• Optionally, spend a half-day excursion to fisherman villages or unwind at the spa of the resort.

Evening:

• Walk around Quy Nhon’s evening market to pick up souvenirs, coconut refreshments, and interesting snacks.
• Rest well, onwards to beachy bliss in Nha Trang withVietnam itinerary 3 weeks!

Day 16: Quy Nhon → Nha Trang – From Hidden Gem to Beach Paradise

Morning:

• Catch a transfer to Nha Trang, one of Vietnam’s most famous beach towns.
• You come and check into your beach resort hotel, a majority are sea-facing, complete with infinity pools.

Afternoon:

• Stop by the historic Ponagar Cham Towers, dating back further than Angkor Wat but still a religious site today.
• Walk down Tran Phu Street along the beachside or unwind over a tropical cocktail.

Evening:

• Sip sunset cocktails at a beach club or rooftop restaurant.
• Dine on a piece of grilled lobster or a crunchy spring roll at Sailing Club, then stroll along the beach in moonlight.

Day 17: Nha Trang – Island Hopping and Coastal Adventures

Morning:

• Take a speedboat tour to spend a day island-hopping across Nha Trang Bay.
• Swim, snorkel, or bask on white-sand shores at Hon Mun, Hon Tam, and Bamboo Island.

Afternoon:

• Back to the mainland to indulge in a rejuvenating mud bath at a mud spa, one of the city’s most unique and enjoyable experiences.
• Try a banh mi filled with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and chili sauce from a nearby restaurant.

Evening:

• Free time to shop along the beach strip.
• Optional: Explore the Nha Trang Night Market or go on a seafood street crawl, a favorite among Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks enthusiasts.

Day 18: Nha Trang → Da Lat – Mountains, Romance, and Pines

Morning:

• Travel uphill by road to Da Lat, a once-colonial hill station set high in the hills.
• Breathe in fresh mountain air and stay at a mountain resort or villa covered in flowers.

Afternoon:

• Stop by the fairytale-like Crazy House, then walk around Xuan Huong Lake.
• Stop by the lively Da Lat Flower Garden and have a strawberry snack at a nearby strawberry farm.

Evening:

• Shop around the Da Lat evening bazaar for grilled corn, sweet potato pancakes, and hot soya milk.
• Get cozy in a nearby cafe for an evening drink.

Day 19: Da Lat – Romance and Waterfalls

Morning:

• Stop by the majestic Bao Dai Summer Palace, a time capsule of Vietnam’s former emperor.
• Ride a cable car through forests of pine trees to Truc Lam Zen Monastery.

Afternoon:

• Discover the exciting waterfalls of Datanla – slide from a natural rock chute or ride a mini alpine coaster through the woodland.
• Fit in precisely with those looking for iconic Vietnam adventure tours.

Evening:

• Dine on a home-style dinner at a villa restaurant near you.
• Optional: Stop by a nighttime tea house or neighborhood wine bar for a peaceful, romantic evening conclusion.

Day 20: Da Lat → Ho Chi Minh City – From Calm to Chaos

Morning:

• Fly from Da Lat to Ho Chi Minh City, the pulsating heart of South Vietnam.
• Stay in a central hotel close to Ben Thanh Market.

Afternoon:

• Immerse yourself in history at the War Remnants Museum, then stroll to Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office – wonderful examples of French colonial-era architecture.
• Shop around for souvenirs and spices at Ben Thanh, one of the things to see in Vietnam.

Evening:

• Discover the hectic allure of Bui Vien Street or take a Vietnamese street food tour to get a flavor of sizzling broken rice, grilled meats, and sweet desserts from the tropics.
• Ultimate way to top off your travel through Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks!

Day 21: Mekong Delta – Life on the River

Morning:

• Leave early for a Mekong Delta day trip to My Tho or Cai Be.
• Cruise through coconut-lined canals, tour island coconut candy workshops, and enjoy live folk music amidst green orchards.

Afternoon:

• Ride by tuk-tuk around rural villages.
• Try making rice paper with locals and sample fresh tropical fruit.

Evening:

• Back to Ho Chi Minh City.
• One final dinner at a rooftop restaurant or a neighborhood street eatery.
• Look back on 21 amazing days – this Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks was nothing short of spectacular.

FAQs: Planning Your Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks

1. Is 3 weeks in Vietnam too long?
Not a bit! Three weeks are enough time to discover Vietnam from top to bottom at a leisurely pace. You have enough time to witness a cultural hotspot such as Hanoi, a beach paradise such as Nha Trang or Quy Nhon, and get adventurous in Sapa, Phong Nha without rushing through things.

2. Which direction is best to travel across Vietnam?
The majority of travelers travel from north to south, from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Travel in this direction takes advantage of the general cultural, geographic, and climate shifts from cool mountain highlands to warm lowland tropics.

3. Is 3 weeks enough for Vietnam and Cambodia?
If you want to experience highlights from both nations, 3 weeks would do, but your days will need to fly by fast. Split 2 weeks between Vietnam and 1 week in Cambodia. If depth trumps breadth, stay in Vietnam during this trip, reserving Cambodia for a special schedule.

4.How many weeks are ideal for Vietnam?
Between 2 to 4 weeks is perfect, depending on your tempo. Three weeks is the optimal amount enough to integrate culture, nature, food, and downtime throughout all parts of the country.

Conclusion

You’ve Your amazing Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks adventure trip is merely a start! If you’re keen to make your dream trip come true, have Impress Travel design a flawless, tailor-made holiday specifically for you! Whether you hanker after exciting Vietnam adventure tours, delectable Vietnamese street food tours, or finding secret things to see in Vietnam, our expert locals have everything covered to make it hassle-free! Explore now at:

• Website:  Vietnam Package Tours 
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•  Email: info@impresstravel.com

Let’s create the most unforgettable Vietnam three week itinerary of your life!