How to spend 5 days in Vietnam — 3 unique itineraries

Who says you need weeks to explore a new culture? Read about our five-day Vietnam itineraries and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of this captivating country. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam packs a punch when it comes to diverse experiences.

See our other Vietnam itineraries: 10 days | 14 days

Itinerary #1: Southern Vietnam explored

Explore the enchanting allure of Southern Vietnam on this 5-day itinerary. You’ll discover here the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City the tranquil, to the picturesque canals of the Mekong Delta, where traditional villages and bustling floating markets await.

Itinerary overview:

Your Southern Vietnam 5 day itinerary begins with your arrival in Ho Chi Minh City.

While here, make a visit to Cholon, the bustling Chinatown, where you'll explore the Thien Hau Pagoda, the fascinating FITO Museum, and the vibrant Ben Thanh market. The evening takes an exciting turn with a Vespa night tour, allowing you to experience the Vietnam nightlife while indulging in local delicacies.

Day three leads you to the picturesque Mekong Delta's Cai Be, where you'll embark on a mesmerizing cruise through its intricate waterways, visiting bustling markets and charming islands. 

You'll even spend the night on a boat, fully immersing yourself in the delta's unique culture. As the journey continues, day four invites you to discover Saigon's nightlife once more, where you'll savour the flavours of local street food and unwind at a cosy café. 

Finally, on day five attend a cooking class at GRAIN by a local chef.

Day 1: Arrival Day

• Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City
• Explore the city in your free time

Day 2: Guided Tour Of Ho Chi Minh City

• Visit Cholon
• Discover Thien Hau Pagoda
• Visit FITO Museum
• Explore Ben Thanh market
• Vespa night tour

Day 3: Overnight Cruise On The Mekong Delta

• Depart for Mekong Delta's Cai Be
• Cruise through waterways
• Visit markets and islands
• Overnight on the boat

Day 4: Saigon Food Experience

• Return to Ho Chi Minh City
• Discover Saigon's Nightlife
• Enjoy local street food
• Relax at a café 

Day 5: Cooking With Luke Nguyen

• Attend a Cooking Class
• Taste your dishes
• Depart

Simplify your travel experience – and let us handle all the planning and booking.

Itinerary #2: From Hanoi to Halong

Explore two of Vietnam's most cherished destinations, immersing yourself in the cultural richness and historical wonders of Hanoi. Then discover enchanting caves and hidden beaches in the stunning Halong Bay on this 5 day itinerary. 

Itinerary overview

Embark on a captivating 5 day Vietnam journey from Hanoi to the mystical Halong Bay with our "Hanoi to Halong" itinerary. Your adventure starts in Hanoi, exploring cultural landmarks and experiencing local life

The first full day is dedicated to discovering Hanoi's rich culture and history. Explore the best things to do in Vietnam like the Temple of Literature, the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Ethnology Museum. Alternatively, gain insights into the lives of Vietnamese women at the Vietnam Women’s Museum. 

Later, immerse yourself in the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, known as the '36 Streets,' and conclude the day with a mesmerizing Water Puppet Show. Day three offers a culinary class and spa experience.

On day four, you'll visit Halong Bay for scenic cruising and dinner onboard a traditional junk. Day five marks the return to Hanoi, concluding this memorable journey.

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

• Transfer to the hotel
• Explore the city in your free time 

Day 2: Discover Hanoi

• Explore Hanoi's cultural sites: the Temple of Literature, the One Pillar Pagoda, the Ethnology Museum
• Visit the Old Quarter
• Enjoy a Water Puppet Show
• Try Hanoi Family Dinner

Day 3: Hanoi Cookery Class and Spa Experience

• Participate in a Hanoi Cooking Class
• Enjoy a spa experience near West Lake

Day 4: Journey to Halong Bay

• Travel to Halong Bay
• Embark on an overnight cruise on Bai Tho Junk 

Day 5: Return to Hanoi

• Return to Hanoi by car
• Concluding your journey
   

Leave the planning and booking to us – book your dream trip today with our tailor made trip service.

Itinerary #3: Cultural Saigon

Experience the captivating blend of culture, cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in the bustling heart of Vietnam with our Cultural Saigon 4 day itinerary.

Itinerary overview

Upon arriving in Ho Chi Minh City, your journey begins in lively Chinatown. You'll explore the Thien Hau Pagoda, the intriguing FITO Museum, and the bustling Ben Thanh market. You can also opt to visit the History Museum for a deeper dive into the city's history.

Next, you'll embark on an adventure to Cai Be in the Mekong Delta, where you'll board the Bassac boat for an overnight cruise. Along the way, you'll witness local cottage industries, enjoy a Mekong-style lunch, and dine on board. The highlight of your Mekong Delta experience is a visit to the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market.

Returning to Ho Chi Minh City, prepare for an evening of culinary delights, sampling street food like banh xeo and com suon non nuong muoi ot in a local park. Spend a final day with a cooking class at GRAIN by a local chef.

Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City

• Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 2: Explore Ho Chi Minh City

• Visit Cholon
• Explore Thien Hau Pagoda
• Visit FITO Museum
• Explore Ben Thanh market
• Enjoy a Vespa night tour

Day 3: Depart for Mekong Delta's Cai Be

• Cruise through waterways
• Visit markets and islands
• Stay overnight on the boat

Day 4: Discover Saigon's Nightlife

• Indulge in local street food
• Relax at a café

Day 5: Attend a Cooking Class

• Savour your dishes
• Conclude your culinary adventure

Why stress over planning and booking? Our tailor-made service makes it easy – book your adventure today.

Travel without planning

Thinking about a journey to Vietnam? Get in touch with our local experts. We'll develop a personalised itinerary, and you can make changes until it's exactly what you desire.

See our other Vietnam itineraries:  10 days | 14 days