Plan your perfect Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks with this detailed guide, covering Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Hoi An, Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, and Hanoi. Discover the best way to travel Vietnam in 2 weeks with cultural tours, scenic cruises, and expert tips from Go Vietnam Tours.
Introduction to Your Vietnam Itinerary 2 Weeks
Vietnam, a vibrant Southeast Asian gem, captivates travelers with its rich cultural tapestry, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, making it ideal for a Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene waters of Ha Long Bay, a Vietnam travel itinerary 2 weeks offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure. In 2025, Vietnam expects to welcome over 18 million tourists, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, drawn by its 54 ethnic traditions, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and affordable travel options. This guide provides a meticulously crafted Vietnam itinerary 14 days, taking you from south to north, covering iconic destinations like Hoi An, Hue, and Hanoi, with practical tips to plan your trip with Go Vietnam Tours.
Why a 2-Week Vietnam Travel Itinerary Is Perfect
A Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks allows you to experience the country’s diverse regions—south, central, and north—without feeling rushed. Here’s why it’s the best way to travel Vietnam in 2 weeks:
- Cultural Immersion: Explore Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups, ancient temples, and vibrant markets, from Hanoi’s Old Quarter to Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets.
- Natural Wonders: Discover UNESCO sites like Ha Long Bay and Trang An, showcasing emerald waters and dramatic karsts.
- Affordability: With meals at $1-$5, mid-range hotels at $20-$40/night, and tours at $10-$50, Vietnam is budget-friendly.
- Accessibility: Domestic flights, trains, and buses make travel seamless across Vietnam’s S-shaped geography.
This Vietnam travel itinerary 2 weeks balances urban energy, rural charm, and coastal beauty, ensuring a comprehensive experience.
Best Way to Travel Vietnam in 2 Weeks: Planning Essentials
Before diving into the itinerary, here’s how to prepare for your 2 weeks in Vietnam:
Best Time to Visit
- North (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh): March-April or October-November for mild weather (20-25°C/68-77°F).
- Central (Hue, Hoi An): February-May for dry, sunny days (25-30°C/77-86°F).
- South (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta): December-April for low humidity (25-32°C/77-90°F).
Getting Around Vietnam
- Flights: Domestic flights (Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet) connect Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), Hue, Hanoi, and Da Nang ($30-$100).
- Trains: The Reunification Express links HCMC to Hanoi with stops in Hue ($20-$50 for sleeper berths).
- Buses: Sleeper buses are affordable for long distances ($10-$20).
- Private Transport: Air-conditioned cars or vans, bookable via Go Vietnam Tours, ensure comfort ($20-$50/day).
Budgeting for Your Trip
A 14-day mid-range trip costs $600-$1,000 per person:
- Accommodation: $150-$300 (hotels like Hanoi La Siesta, $20-$40/night).
- Transport: $150-$250 (flights, buses, taxis).
- Activities: $150-$300 (tours, entry fees).
- Food: $100-$150 (street food, restaurants).
- Miscellaneous: $50-$100 (souvenirs, tips).
Visa and Safety Tips
- Visa: US, Australian, and most nationalities need a visa ($25-$50, 90-day e-visa). UK citizens get 45-day visa-free entry.
- Safety: Vietnam is safe, but watch for pickpockets in crowded areas and navigate motorbike traffic carefully. Use apps like Grab ($1-$3/ride).
Vietnam Itinerary 14 Days: Detailed Route from South to North
This Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks starts in Ho Chi Minh City and ends in Hanoi, covering culture, heritage, and nature over 14 days/13 nights. Book with Go Vietnam Tours for a seamless experience with local English-speaking guides and private transport.
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City Arrival – Welcome to Saigon
Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), Vietnam’s vibrant southern hub. Settle into your hotel and explore Ben Thanh Market for street food like pho ($2-$3) or souvenirs ($1-$5). Stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street for a taste of Saigon’s nightlife.
- Where to Stay: Mid-range hotels like Liberty Central Saigon ($30-$50/night).
- Travel Tip: Use Grab for short rides ($1-$2). Visit in December-April for dry weather (25-32°C/77-90°F).
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City Tour – Cu Chi Tunnels
Join a morning city tour to visit Notre Dame Basilica (free), Saigon Central Post Office (free), and War Remnants Museum ($2 entry). In the afternoon, drive 1.5 hours to the Cu Chi Tunnels ($6 entry), a historic Vietnam War site where you can crawl through underground passages.
- Activity: Book a guided tour with Go Vietnam Tours ($15-$25).
- Travel Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for the tunnels and bring sunscreen.
Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta
Travel 2 hours to the Mekong Delta, Vietnam’s “Rice Bowl.” Visit My Tho or Ben Tre for a boat tour through canals, coconut groves, and villages ($20-$30). Sample tropical fruits and local dishes like hu tieu ($2-$3).
- Activity: Book a Mekong tour with Go Vietnam Tours for a guided experience.
- Travel Tip: Carry insect repellent for rural areas.
Day 4: Cai Rang Floating Market – Fly to Hue
Head to Can Tho (1.5 hours from My Tho) to visit the Cai Rang Floating Market, Vietnam’s largest, via a sunrise boat tour ($10-$20). Witness vendors trading fruits and noodles from boats. Return to HCMC and catch a 1.5-hour flight to Hue ($40-$80).
- Where to Stay: Hue Nino Hotel ($20-$40/night).
- Travel Tip: Arrive early (6-8 AM) for the liveliest market experience.
Day 5: Hue City Tour
Explore Hue, the former imperial capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Imperial Citadel ($10 entry), Thien Mu Pagoda (free), and royal tombs like Khai Dinh ($5 entry). Take a Perfume River boat tour ($5-$10) for scenic views.
- Activity: Book a Hue tour with Go Vietnam Tours ($15-$25).
- Travel Tip: Try bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup, $2-$3) at local stalls.
Day 6: Hue – Hoi An
Drive 3 hours to Hoi An via the scenic Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful routes. Arrive in Hoi An, a UNESCO-listed ancient town, and explore its lantern-lit streets and tailor shops in the evening.
- Where to Stay: Hoi An Eco Lodge ($30-$50/night).
- Travel Tip: Visit in February-May for dry weather (25-30°C/77-86°F).
Day 7: Half-Day Tour of Rustic Hoi An
Join a half-day tour to explore Hoi An’s Japanese Covered Bridge (free to view), Tan Ky House ($2 entry), and nearby Tra Que Vegetable Village ($10-$15 cycling tour). Spend the afternoon relaxing at An Bang Beach ($1-$2 for loungers).
- Activity: Book a cycling tour with Go Vietnam Tours ($15-$25).
- Travel Tip: Order custom clothing at Yaly Couture ($20-$100).
Day 8: Hoi An – Hanoi
Fly from Da Nang (30 minutes from Hoi An) to Hanoi (1.5 hours, $40-$80). Spend the evening in the Old Quarter, sampling street food like bun cha ($2-$3) and egg coffee ($1-$2). Visit Hoan Kiem Lake for a serene evening stroll.
- Where to Stay: Hanoi La Siesta Hotel ($30-$50/night).
- Travel Tip: Use BusMap Hanoi for public transport navigation.
Day 9: Hanoi City Tour – Bat Trang Ceramic Village
Explore Hanoi’s cultural landmarks: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (free, closed Mondays), Temple of Literature ($2 entry), and Vietnam Museum of Ethnology ($2 entry). In the afternoon, visit Bat Trang Ceramic Village (30 minutes from Hanoi, $5-$10 tour) to see traditional pottery-making.
- Activity: Book a city tour with Go Vietnam Tours ($15-$25).
- Travel Tip: Buy ceramic souvenirs ($5-$20) directly from artisans.
Day 10: Hanoi – Duong Lam Ancient Village
Take a 1-hour drive to Duong Lam Ancient Village, a historic site with 300-year-old houses and communal temples ($5 entry). Enjoy a countryside cycling tour ($10-$15) and taste local specialties like chao ga (chicken porridge, $2).
- Activity: Book a Duong Lam tour with Go Vietnam Tours ($15-$20).
- Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for village exploration.
Day 11: Hanoi – Ninh Binh
Travel 2 hours to Ninh Binh, dubbed “Ha Long Bay on Land.” Explore Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a boat tour through caves and rice fields ($10). Visit Tam Coc for scenic river rides ($5) or Van Long Nature Reserve for birdwatching ($3).
- Activity: Book a Ninh Binh tour with Go Vietnam Tours ($20-$30).
- Travel Tip: Visit in September-October for lush greenery (25-30°C/77-86°F).
Day 12: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay Cruise
Drive 2.5 hours to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Embark on a 2-day/1-night cruise ($50-$150) to explore limestone karsts, caves, and emerald waters. Kayak or visit Sung Sot Cave for stunning views.
- Activity: Book a cruise with Go Vietnam Tours for Lan Ha Bay to avoid crowds.
- Travel Tip: Visit in March-April or October-November for clear skies (20-28°C/68-82°F).
Day 13: Ha Long Bay – Hanoi
Continue your Ha Long Bay cruise with morning activities like tai chi or kayaking. Return to Hanoi by afternoon and enjoy a water puppet show ($5-$10) in the evening.
- Travel Tip: Book tickets for Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in advance.
Day 14: Hanoi Departure
Spend your final morning shopping at Dong Xuan Market ($1-$5 for souvenirs) or relaxing at a café. Depart from Noi Bai International Airport.
- Travel Tip: Arrive at the airport 2 hours early for international flights.
Explore detailed itinerary and services in this Vietnam Cultural Tour – 14 Days
Practical Tips for Your Vietnam Itinerary 14 Days
To ensure the best way to travel Vietnam in 2 weeks, follow these tips:
Transportation Tips
- Flights: Book domestic flights via Skyscanner or Vietjet ($30-$100). Hanoi to Hue or Da Nang is quickest (1.5 hours).
- Electric Motorbikes: Post-2026, Hanoi’s Ring Road 1 bans gas motorbikes. Rent electric scooters ($5-$10/day) for city exploration.
- Apps: Use Grab for rides ($1-$3) and 12Go Asia for bus/train bookings.
Accommodation Tips
Choose mid-range hotels for comfort and value:
- HCMC: Liberty Central Saigon ($30-$50/night).
- Hue: Hue Nino Hotel ($20-$40/night).
- Hoi An: Hoi An Eco Lodge ($30-$50/night).
- Hanoi: Hanoi La Siesta ($30-$50/night).
Travel Tip: Book through Go Vietnam Tours for deals on hotels and tours.
Food and Dining
Vietnam’s cuisine is a highlight of your Vietnam travel itinerary 2 weeks:
- HCMC: Try pho or banh mi ($1-$3) at Ben Thanh Market.
- Hue: Sample bun bo Hue ($2-$3) at local stalls.
- Hoi An: Enjoy cao lau ($2-$3) in the Old Town.
- Hanoi: Taste bun cha or egg coffee ($1-$3) in the Old Quarter.
Travel Tip: Request “no spicy” (khong cay) for milder flavors. Carry snacks for rural areas.
Sustainable Travel
Support eco-friendly practices:
- Choose operators like Go Vietnam Tours for sustainable tours, such as electric vehicle trips or homestays.
- Avoid single-use plastics; use a reusable water bottle like LifeStraw.
- Respect local customs, especially in ethnic villages, by dressing modestly.
Safety and Health
- Safety: Watch for pickpockets in markets and navigate traffic carefully. Hanoi’s gas motorbike ban starts July 2026, so use electric scooters in Ring Road 1.
- Health: Vaccinate against Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Use DEET-based repellent for mosquitoes, especially in the Mekong Delta.
- Insurance: Purchase travel insurance (e.g., SafetyWing) for medical coverage.
Why Choose This Vietnam Itinerary 2 Weeks?
This Vietnam itinerary 14 days covers:
- Cultural Depth: From Hue’s imperial history to Hoi An’s ancient charm.
- Natural Beauty: Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh’s karst landscapes.
- Rural Charm: Duong Lam and Mekong Delta’s authentic villages.
- Urban Energy: Hanoi and HCMC’s vibrant streets.
With Go Vietnam Tours, you’ll have local guides, private transport, and customizable options to tailor your 2 weeks in Vietnam.
A Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks offers an unforgettable journey through the country’s cultural heart, natural wonders, and vibrant cities. From the Mekong Delta’s floating markets to Ha Long Bay’s emerald waters, this south-to-north route showcases the best way to travel Vietnam in 2 weeks. With affordable prices, diverse experiences, and expert guidance from Go Vietnam Tours, your 2025 adventure awaits. Ready to explore Vietnam’s iconic destinations? Contact Go Vietnam Tours or share your plans in the comments below!
