Vietnam is a diverse and sprawling country, larger than many anticipate. If you plan to explore its full length, encompassing the highlands, deltas, and a few rest days, a month is ideal. With just two weeks, you can either focus on the coastal highlights or dive into one region at a slower, more immersive pace. Affordable domestic flights can help optimize your itinerary.

Ho Chi Minh City and Southern Vietnam

For most travelers, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) serves as a whirlwind introduction to Vietnam. Its fast-paced lifestyle, bustling streets, and vibrant energy captivate visitors with its unique charm.

A short journey from HCMC brings you to the Mekong Delta, where the mighty Mekong River disperses into the South China Sea. This region is a lush tapestry of rice paddies, fruit orchards, and meandering waterways. To the west, Phu Quoc Island offers pristine beaches, making it an ideal retreat after exploring the mainland or as a quick getaway from HCMC.

Da Lat, perched 1,500 meters above sea level, is the entry point to Vietnam’s central highlands. Its cool climate and picturesque hills provide a refreshing change of pace. To experience the highlands’ remote charm, venture further to Buon Ma Thuot, Pleiku, and Kon Tum, surrounded by traditional Ede, Jarai, and Bahnar villages.

Central Vietnam’s Coastal Highlights

Traveling northeast from HCMC along Highway 1, you’ll encounter several must-visit coastal destinations. Mui Ne is famed for its sandy beaches and striking sand dunes, while Nha Trang offers a lively party scene alongside tranquil beach escapes. Further north, Quy Nhon remains a hidden gem among Vietnam’s beach resorts.

The charming riverside town of Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved wooden shop houses and serene ambiance. Nearby, the ancient My Son ruins, the most significant Cham temple site, rest in a lush, jungle-filled valley. Just up the coast, Da Nang serves as a convenient base for exploring central Vietnam, offering excellent accommodations and dining options.

A scenic train ride north from Da Nang leads to Hue, the former imperial capital. Set along the Perfume River, Hue boasts historical temples, palaces, and tombs that reflect its royal heritage.

Northern Vietnam’s Diverse Landscapes

Beyond Hue, the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) marks the country’s wartime history. Farther north, the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park features dramatic limestone caves, including Son Doong, the world’s largest cave.

As you approach Hanoi, Vietnam’s thousand-year-old capital, you’ll encounter the serene landscapes of Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, and the stunning limestone formations of Tam Coc and Van Long.

Hanoi is a city of contrasts: French-era villas and tree-lined boulevards blend seamlessly with bustling markets, ancient temples, and modern skyscrapers.

From Hanoi, a short trip east leads to the breathtaking Ha Long Bay, where thousands of limestone islands rise dramatically from emerald waters. Cat Ba Island, on the bay’s southwestern edge, is an excellent starting point for exploring this UNESCO-listed wonder.

To the north and west, Vietnam’s mountainous regions offer spectacular scenery and cultural richness. Sa Pa, near the Chinese border, serves as a hub for trekking through rice terraces and visiting minority villages. Closer to Hanoi, the idyllic Mai Chau Valley provides a quieter experience, with opportunities to stay in stilt-house villages.

Planning Your Vietnam Adventure

Whether you have two weeks or a month, Vietnam offers an extraordinary variety of experiences. From vibrant cities and ancient heritage to idyllic beaches and majestic mountains, this country is sure to leave a lasting impression.