2 weeks in Vietnam is the perfect amount of time to get a taste of what this beautiful country has to offer! In order to make the most of your time there, follow this guide to plan out your itinerary:
Overview of Vietnam
Vietnam is a beautiful country that everyone should see at least once in their life!
| Population: | 97.34 million |
| Currency: | Vietnamese Dong |
| Capital city: | Hanoi |
| Major airports: | Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) and Da Nang International Airport (DAD) |
| Language: | Vietnamese |
The Vietnamese people do not really speak English. You’ll find yourself using crazy hand gestures and facial expressions most of the time, but that’s half the fun of traveling!
What is the best way to travel Vietnam?
Vietnam actually has both local and tourist transport all throughout the country. Most places are within a short bus/shuttle ride and you can find various options through Vietnam travel websites. There are also sleeper buses, which consists of a bed on a bus ( amazing right?) where you book and then wake up in your destination.
Additionally, flights inside the country are usually really cheap, so if you’re doing a longer distance, why not fly? Airlines such as Vietjet, Pacific Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines always have great prices both within Vietnam and to neighboring countries.
Finally, the definitely coolest but also potentially dangerous way is to buy/rent a motorbike. For certain routes and for more flexibility, this is definitely the best option. Although 2 weeks in Vietnam may not be enough to buy a motorbike for the whole trip, there are many people who buy a bike at the beginning of their trip and then sell it.
Before renting or buying a motorbike, be sure to bring your International Driver’s Permit (IDP). Technically you need it everywhere in Vietnam, although most companies will rent bikes to you without it. The issue is though, not having your IDP is an excuse for the police to fine you if you’re caught. The police in the country can be a bit corrupt and you don’t want to have to bribe them to get your motorbike back.
Which is the best time to visit Vietnam?
When visiting Vietnam, it’s always best to avoid the rainy season! Although a little rain never hurt anybody, the months from May until November can have unpredictable rain and even cold weather in the north, making it not possible to do some of the activities!
The best time to visit Vietnam is February – April, as there won’t be as many tourists as Christmas time, and the rainy season hasn’t started yet.
How much does 2 weeks in Vietnam cost?
Luckily, Vietnam is a pretty cheap destination! Hostels only cost about $10-15 per night (even cheaper outside of the big cities) and food is insanely cheap. It’s feasible to live on $20 a day if you’re on a budget, with the occasional splurging on tours and activities.
2 Week Vietnam Itinerary
Hanoi
2 days
The capital city and very vibrant. Hanoi is a great place to fly into as well as base yourself out of for nearby destinations. Hanoi is great for foodies! You’ll find an eclectic mix of Western restaurants, local favorite shops, and street food. Be sure to try banh mi and egg coffee while you’re here and if you’re a Harry Potter fan, boy do I have a cafe for you!
As it’s your first stop in Vietnam, I HIGHLY recommend taking a street food tour as an introduction to all that Vietnamese cuisine has to offer!
You have to go through Hanoi to reach destinations on either side, so feel free to spread out your days in Hanoi.
Where to stay
Little Charm Hanoi Hostel – This hostel is right in the city center and is a top rated hostel in Hanoi! It perfectly combines modern amenities while still being a great place to meet people.
Ninh Binh
2-3 days
Ninh Binh is a gorgeous, nature rich destination that you should definitely devote a few days to! You can explore the landscape via bicycle or motorbike, take a hike for some spectacular views, and do some exploration by boat with Vietnamese guys who like to row with their bare feet. You definitely need a few days to conquer as many activities as possible!
Where to stay
Tam Coc Banana Bungalow – Super cool hostel that offers bicycle rental and is in the center of all the beautiful nature of Ninh Binh
Sapa Valley
2 days
The Sapa Valley rice fields are one of the coolest landmarks and best reasons for going to Vietnam. Not only can you enjoy hikes with amazing views, but it’s also a chance to explore more of the local side of Vietnam. Devote some time to exploring the local villages and exploring markets filled with handicrafts.
Hint: To enjoy Sapa Valley to the fullest, you really need a motorbike to get around!
Where to stay
Lustig Hostel – This hostel seems more like a hotel! It’s ultra modern and clean and the perfect place to clean up after exploring the fields.
Tavan Chopai Homestay – If you want a bit more of a local experience, try a homestay! You’ll be with other backpackers but you really have a more homey feel and more authentic experience.
Ha Giang Loop
3-4 days
More of a journey than a destination, this famous road lets you see the best that Vietnam has to offer. You’ll need to rent or buy a motorbike to take the journey, and will be surrounded by stunning views and seeing the local side of Vietnam. Most people do the loop in 3 days, but if you want to relax you can also do it in 4.
A word of warning though: Do NOT try to undertake this journey in bad weather. The road is full of slippery gravel and sharp turns so driving in the rain turns very dangerous. Plus, it’s harder to see the amazing views!
Where to stay
NoMadders Hostel – One of the coolest hostels on the route! Meet other travelers and take a break at the pool after a long day on the road.
Halong Bay
2-3 days
Halong Bay is famous for a reason! This picturesque destination is a must-see for anyone visiting Vietnam. There is simply nothing like it! Take a tour by boat to make the most of visiting the bay and see the fishing villages- where locals actually spend their entire lives in a floating house.
If you want to avoid the tourist area, try to go to nearby Cat Ba. Life is a bit more local and relaxed there and you can rent an ATV to explore the island, which was hands down one of my best experiences.
Where to stay
Catba Pod Hostel – Such a cool hostel in Cat Ba! Each bed has its own little cubby so maximum privacy! Plus, a great hostel to meet people.
Optional: Hoi An
2-3 days
Hoi An is a lovely little fishing village where the life is slow and locals/tourists mix. It’s a bit out of the way, but totally worth it if you have time and is a perfect opportunity to see a different region of Vietnam.
You can reach Hoi An by night bus and train, but the journey is very long. The best option is to fly directly in Da Nang airport from one of the bigger cities. Flights inside Vietnam tend to be really cheap!
Where to stay
SnapStay Hoi An – An amazing hostel! Clean but still very social and full of activities.
Ho Chi Minh
2-3 days
Finally, end your journey in Ho Chi Minh, or as the locals like to call it, Saigon. This vibrant city is full of things to do and a great gateway to the rest of Southeast Asia if you have the time! Some of the coolest things to do in Ho Chi Minh are visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels (from the Vietnam War!) or taking a tour on the Mekong Delta.
Where to stay
City Backpackers Hostel – Right in the heart of this city, this highly rated hostel is perfect for your Ho Chi Minh experience
Vietnam is a lovely country that you should definitely devote more than two weeks to! Have you been to this beautiful country?
