How to spend 3 weeks in Vietnam — 5 unique itineraries

Vietnam, with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine, offers an incredible travel experience. While a shorter visit can cover the essentials, spending three weeks in this diverse country allows you to immerse yourself in its beauty and diversity. Here’s how to spend 3 weeks in Vietnam, with five unique itineraries crafted by our local travel experts.

Itinerary #1: Southern Vietnam exploration

Spending three weeks in South Vietnam is an incredible journey through a region teeming with cultural richness and natural beauty. Here, you'll meander through a tapestry of life, with the hustle and bustle of historic markets and the fragrance of street food filling the air. 

Use this itinerary to help you plan your 3-week trip, or let us handle the planning and booking for you. 

Itinerary overview

Itinerary 1 offers a three-week exploration of Southern Vietnam, starting in Ho Chi Minh City with visits to cultural landmarks, moving on to Mai Chau Valley for nature and local experiences, then exploring the Mekong Delta in Can Tho, and finally ending the journey in Hoi An and Hue with cultural and historical highlights.

What these 3 weeks in Vietnam look like.

Day 1

• Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City.
• Check into your hotel.
• Explore the city's vibrant street food scene.

Day 2

• Visit the War Remnants Museum.
• Explore the Independence Palace.
• Explore the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon.
• Walk around the historic Post Office.

Day 3

• Take a morning visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels.
• In the evening, enjoy a Water Puppet Show.

Day 4

• Travel to Mai Chau Valley.
• Explore the stunning rice paddies and traditional villages.
• Stay overnight in a local homestay.

Day 5

• Continue exploring Mai Chau Valley.
• Optional activities include hiking or cycling.
• Experience the local culture.

Day 6

• Travel to Can Tho in the Mekong Delta region.
• Explore the Cai Rang Floating Markets.

Day 7

• Visit the FITO Museum of Traditional Medicine in Can Tho.
• Explore the local culture.

Day 8

• Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time in Can Tho before heading to the airport for your departure.

Day 9

• Arrive in Hoi An.
• Explore the charming ancient town.
• Visit the Cham Museum.

Day 10

• Take a cooking class in Hoi An.
• Explore the local markets.
• Enjoy a lantern-lit evening along the river.

Day 11

• Relax on the beautiful beaches of Hoi An.
• Optional: Visit Kim Long Village.

Day 12

• Travel to Hue.
• Visit the Hue Citadel and Imperial City.
• Explore the Hue Museum.

Day 13

• Visit Dong Ba Market for shopping and local street food.
• Explore the Khai Dinh Royal Tombs.

Day 14

• Take a boat trip to Thien Mu Pagoda.
• Explore the serene Perfume River.

Day 15

• Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time in Hue before heading to the airport for your departure.

Itinerary #2: Northern Vietnam’s Wonders

Embarking on a three-week exploration of North Vietnam is an immersive narrative etched in history and framed by breathtaking landscapes. Hanoi's frenetic streets tell stories of ancient temples and French colonial elegance, all woven into the urban fabric. 

Venture into the misty hinterlands of Sapa to commune with indigenous hill tribes, and then sail through the surreal limestone karsts of Halong Bay. There is plenty to do and see in North and Central Vietnam. 

Itinerary overview

Itinerary for a Northern Vietnam adventure spans three weeks, beginning with cultural exploration in Hanoi, a rural escape to Mai Chau Valley, and a visit to scenic Ninh Binh. 

The journey then continues with a Halong Bay cruise, central Vietnam's charm in Hoi An and Da Lat, a glimpse into Tay Ninh's unique religious practices, and culminates with historical and cultural experiences in Hue.

Ready to take this trip without the hassle of planning and booking? Book it with us today.

What these 3 weeks in North Vietnam look like.

Day 1

• Arrive in Hanoi.
• Check into your hotel.
• Explore the Old Quarter and try some local street food.

Day 2

• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
• Explore the Presidential Palace.
• Stroll around the One Pillar Pagoda.
• Evening Water Puppet Show.

Day 3

• Travel to Mai Chau Valley.
• Explore the picturesque rice paddies and traditional villages.
• Overnight in a local homestay.

Day 4 

• Continue exploring Mai Chau Valley.
• Optional hiking or cycling.
• Experience the local culture.

Day 5

• Travel to Ninh Binh.
• Visit Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.
• Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.

Day 6

• Embark on a Halong Bay cruise.
• Explore the stunning limestone formations and caves.
• Enjoy kayaking and swimming.

Day 7

• Continue your Halong Bay cruise.
• Visit a fishing village.
• Enjoy the sunset on the bay.

Day 8

• Arrive in Hoi An.
• Explore the charming ancient town.
• Visit the Cham Museum.

Day 9

• Take a cooking class in Hoi An.
• Explore the local markets.
• Enjoy a lantern-lit evening along the river.

Day 10

• Relax on the beautiful beaches of Hoi An.
• Optional: Visit Kim Long Village.

Day 11

• Travel to Da Lat.
• Explore the Crazy House.
• Visit Dalat Cathedral.

Day 12

• Explore Da Lat's flower gardens and Xuan Huong Lake.
• Enjoy the local cuisine.

Day 13

• Travel to Tay Ninh.
• Visit the Cao Dai Holy See Temple.
• Experience the unique Cao Dai religious ceremony.

Day 14

• Travel to Hue.
• Visit the Hue Citadel and Imperial City.
• Explore the Hue Museum.

Day 15

• Visit Dong Ba Market for shopping and local street food.
• Explore the Khai Dinh Royal Tombs.

Day 16

• Take a boat trip to Thien Mu Pagoda.
• Explore the serene Perfume River.

Day 17

• Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time in Hue before heading to the airport for your departure.

Ready to embark on an adventure? Book your trip now.

Itinerary #3: Very Vietnam

Vietnam never ceases to amaze, effortlessly blending the charm of antiquity with the vibrancy of the present. 

On this 3 week Vietnam itinerary, you’ll explore lush rice paddies, immerse yourself in the essence of traditional villages, wander through bustling markets, and visit the serene temples and pagodas.

Itinerary overview

This itinerary covers a comprehensive 19-day journey through Vietnam, beginning with exploration in Hanoi, including visits to cultural sites, museums, and a water puppet show. 

The itinerary then proceeds to picturesque locations like Mai Chau Valley, Ninh Binh, and Halong Bay, followed by a cultural and historical immersion in Hue, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Dalat. The trip ends with a visit to Ho Chi Minh City, including stops at Tay Ninh, Cu Chi Tunnels, and finally, departure from Tan Son Nhat Airport. Read more.

What these 3 weeks in Vietnam look like.

Day 1

• Arrive at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport.
• Transfer to your hotel and check-in.
• City tour in the afternoon, including Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and the Old Quarter of Hanoi.

Day 2

• Full-day city tour, visiting Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, One-Pillar Pagoda, and the Army Museum.
• Explore the Temple of Literature, Fine Arts Museum, and Quan Thanh Temple.
• Enjoy a Water Puppet Show in the evening.

Day 3

• Explore more of Hanoi, including the Ho Chi Minh Museum, Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton), and the Vietnamese Women's Museum.

Day 4

• Drive to Mai Chau Valley.
• Explore surrounding villages and rice paddies by bicycle or on foot.
• Overnight in a traditional stilt house.

Day 5

• Drive to Ninh Binh, known as "the Dry Halong Bay."
• Explore Trang An Grottoes by boat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
• Overnight in Ninh Binh.

Day 6

• Drive to Halong via Hai Phong.
• Short sightseeing tour in Hai Phong.
• Overnight in Halong.

Day 7

• Explore Halong Bay, a World Heritage Site with limestone islets and caves.
• Visit islands, caves, and swim at Titov Beach.
• Dinner and overnight on board.

Day 8

• Continue your Halong Bay cruise in the morning.
• Return to Hanoi in the afternoon.
• Free time to explore Hanoi or relax.

Day 9 

• Fly to Hue.
• Take a boat trip on the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial City, and King Tu Duc’s Tomb.
• Stroll around Dong Ba Market if time allows.

Day 10

• Explore Kim Long Village by bicycle.
• Experience Hue’s cultural relics and art of living.

Day 11

• Drive to Hoi An via Danang, with a visit to the Cham Museum before proceeding to Hoi An.
• Free time to explore Hoi An in the evening.

Day 12

• Explore Hoi An's Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An Museum, and the local markets.
• Relax on An Bang Beach.

Day 13

• Join a tour to explore the local fishermen community, including fishing techniques and a seafood lunch.

Day 14

• Fly to Nha Trang.
• Visit Po Nagar Cham Towers and Long Son Pagoda in Nha Trang.

Day 15

• Drive to Dalat.
• Explore Dalat, visiting the Summer Palace of Emperor Bao Dai, Xuan Huong Lake, and the "Crazy House."

Day 16

• Visit the Dalat Flower Garden and stop by tea, coffee, and rubber plantations.
• Drive to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 17

• City tour, including the History Museum, former Presidential Palace, Central Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral.
• Afternoon visit to Thien Hau Temple, Chinatown, and Binh Tay Market.

Day 18

• Visit Tay Ninh to explore Cao-Daism.
• Continue to Cu Chi Tunnels, used during the Vietnam War.
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City for the night.

Day 19 

• Enjoy leisure time until your transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for departure.

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now.

Itinerary #4: Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos

A little less than 3 weeks in Vietnam, but this 18-day itinerary takes you on a comprehensive journey through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. It includes exploration of historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and scenic cruises, starting in Ho Chi Minh City and ending in Hue, with highlights like Angkor Wat and Luang Prabang along the way.

Itinerary overview

Commence and conclude your journey in Ho Chi Minh City. On this trip you’ll explore must-see destinations including the Mekong Delta, Phnom Penh featuring the Killing Fields, the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, and the culturally rich city of Luang Prabang in Laos.

Your return leg takes you back to Vietnam, where the captivating cities of Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Hoi An beckon your exploration. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrival at Ho Chi Minh City.
• Transfer to the hotel for check-in.
• Leisure time.

Day 2

• Explore historical buildings: Opera House, Continental Hotel, Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Saigon Post Office, and Reunification Palace.
• Visit the War Remnants Museum.

Day 3

• Visit Cu Chi Tunnels.
• Explore Cao Dai Temple of Caodaism.
• Leisure time.

Day 4 

• Take a boat ride on Tien River.
• Visit My Tho Fish Market and islands.
• Horse cart ride and cultural experiences.
• Drive to Can Tho.

Day 5 

• Morning boat cruise on the Mekong River.
• Explore Cai Rang Floating Market.
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 6

• Flight to Phnom Penh.
• Check-in and leisure time.

Day 7

• Explore Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, Wat Phnom.
• Visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields.

Day 8

• Drive to Siem Reap via Kampong Thom.
• Visit local village and ancient sites.
• Check-in and leisure time in Siem Reap.

Day 9 

• Explore Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, Elephant Terrace.
• Visit Angkor Wat and Bakheng Temple for sunset.

Day 10

• Visit Banteay Srei and Ta Prohm Temples.

Day 11

• Morning long-tail boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake.
• Explore Kompong Phluk village.
• Fly to Luang Prabang, Laos.

Day 12

• Witness morning alms-giving ritual.
• Explore Royal Palace Museum, Wat Xieng Thong, and more.
• Sunset at Mount Phousi and Phousi Night Market.

Day 13

• Morning Mekong River cruise.
• Visit Pak Ou Caves and local villages.

Day 14 

• Visit Elephant Village and interact with elephants.
• Take a traditional boat ride to Tad Sae Waterfalls.

Day 15

• Explore Kuang Si Waterfalls.
• Fly to Hanoi, Vietnam.

Day 16

• Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, House on Stilts, One Pillar Pagoda.
• Explore Temple of Literature and Old Quarter.

Day 17

• Travel to Halong Bay for a 2-day cruise.
• Explore Halong Bay and optional activities.

Day 18 

• Optional Tai Chi class and visit Sung Sot Cave.
• Return to Hanoi and fly to Hue.

Don't bother with all the details; book your trip with us today.

Itinerary #5: The Southeast Asia Tour

Do you have a bit more time than 3 weeks in Vietnam? This extensive 23-day itinerary encompasses multiple countries, including Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand, offering a diverse cultural and historical experience.

 It includes visits to iconic landmarks, scenic cruises, and opportunities to explore local markets and attractions in each destination, culminating in a departure from Bangkok.

Itinerary overview

Embark on an adventure spanning just over three weeks as you delve into the top attractions of four countries. Begin with Vietnam, where you'll discover the enchanting Halong Bay and the vibrant Mekong Delta, alongside the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. 

Next, venture into Cambodia to explore the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat. Continue your journey to Laos, where you can witness the serene sight of monks in Luang Prabang. 

Finally, conclude your trip in Thailand, where you'll have the chance to interact with elephants and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Bangkok. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport.
• Transfer to the hotel.
• Leisure time.

Day 2

• Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Stilt House.
• Explore One Pillar Pagoda, Hoa Lo Prison, and Temple of Literature.
• Visit the Museum of Ethnology.
• Experience a rickshaw trip in the Old Quarter.
• Explore Hoan Kiem Lake.
• Enjoy a water puppet show.

Day 3

• Travel to Halong Bay for a 2-day cruise.
• Sail through islets and a fishing village.
• Optional activities like kayaking, swimming, and diving.

Day 4

• Try a Tai Chi class in the morning.
• Visit Sung Sot Cave.
• Return to Hanoi.
• Fly to Hue.

Day 5

• Visit Tomb of King Minh Mang.
• Take a dragon boat on Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda.
• Explore Imperial Citadel and Forbidden Purple City.
• Visit Dong Ba Market.

Day 6

• Drive to Hoi An via Hai Van Pass.
• Stop in Da Nang to visit Cham Museum and Non Nuoc Beach.
• Check-in and leisure time in Hoi An.

Day 7

• Visit Japanese Covered Bridge, Chinese Temple, and Vietnamese Merchants' House.
• Boat ride to Thanh Ha Pottery Village.
• Explore Hoi An at night.

Day 8

• Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).
• Guided city tour: Opera House, City Hall, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office.

Day 9 

• Explore Cu Chi Tunnels.
• Visit Ben Thanh Market, War Remnants Museum, and Reunification Palace.
• Explore Old Saigon Post Office and Dong Khoi Street.

Day 10

• Take a boat ride on Tien River to four islands.
• Visit My Tho Fish Market and local attractions.
• Drive to Can Tho.

Day 11

• Visit Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho.
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City.
• Free time.

Day 12

• Flight to Siem Reap.
• Explore Siem Reap at leisure.

Day 13

• Explore Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, and Elephant Terrace.
• Visit Angkor Wat and Bakheng Temple for sunset.

Day 14 

• Flight to Luang Prabang.
• Explore Luang Prabang at leisure.

Day 15

• Observe morning alms-giving ceremony.
• Visit local markets and temples.
• Take a trip to Kuang Si Falls.
• Sunset view from Mount Phousi.

Day 16

• Morning Mekong River cruise.
• Visit Pak Ou Caves and local villages.

Day 17

• Flight to Chiang Mai.
• Explore Chiang Mai at leisure.

Day 18

• Visit Baan Chang Elephant Park for an elephant interaction experience.

Day 19 

• Explore Wat Umong and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temples.

Day 20

• Fly to Bangkok.
• Explore Bangkok at leisure.

Day 21

• Visit local markets.
• Tour the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Arun.
• Take a long-tailed boat ride through canals.

Day 22

• Excursion to Ayutthaya.
• Visit Bang Pa-In Summer Palace and Ayutthaya Historical Park.
• Return to Bangkok.

Day 23

• Transfer to the airport for departure.

Excited to discover? Waste no time and book this trip now.

Let us plan your Vietnam 3-week itinerary

Allow our team of local experts to curate your dream trip to Vietnam. When you're ready to embark on your adventure, reach out to us, and we'll fashion a personalised itinerary just for you. Feel free to browse our pre-designed Vietnam itineraries for ideas, and remember that all can be tailored to meet your specific needs.