How Many Days Do You Need in Vietnam?
From a long weekend to three weeks, here is what each trip length can realistically cover.
The honest answer is: more than you think, but fewer than you fear. Vietnam is a long country, so the secret is to pick fewer places and spend longer in each. Here is how the numbers usually work out.
By trip length
Short and sweet
Da Nang, Hoi An and a day trip to Hue. Beaches, history and food without much transit.
One week
Hanoi plus Ha Long Bay, or Da Nang and Hoi An with a night in Hue.
The classic
Hanoi, a bay or mountain stay, then fly to Da Nang and Hoi An.
Two weeks
Add Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong, with one slow beach stop.
Three weeks
Add the highlands or the far north, with breathing space between moves.
Count arrival and departure days as half days, especially after long-haul flights.
Common mistakes
Trying to see everything is the big one. Moving every day leaves you with airports and memories of airports.
Another is skipping rest days. A beach afternoon between big sights is what keeps a two-week trip enjoyable.
Slow down and you will see more.
How to choose
Pick your season
Weather differs by region, so match your dates to where you most want to go.
Pick a region first
Do one or two regions well before adding a third.
Add buffer
Leave a flexible day for weather, tiredness or a place you fall in love with.
Find your number of days
Tell us how long you have and we will build a trip that fits.
Tell us about your trip