3 Week Vietnam Itinerary South to North (with Ha Giang Loop) from Hanoi/ Sapa

3 Week Vietnam Itinerary South to North with Ha Giang Loop

Vietnam is a vibrant country that boasts of a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. From bustling cities to tranquil countryside, Vietnam has something to offer to everyone. Whether you are an adventure-seeker or a culture enthusiast, Vietnam is a destination that should be on your bucket list.

To make the most of your trip to Vietnam, having a well-planned itinerary is essential. Vietnam is a large country with a lot to explore, and it can be overwhelming to decide which destinations to visit and what experiences to have. A well-planned itinerary can help you make the most of your time in Vietnam, ensuring that you don’t miss out on the best that the country has to offer.

This itinerary is designed to take you on a journey through the length and breadth of Vietnam, covering the best destinations and experiences in just three weeks. You will start your journey in the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City before making your way up to the ancient town of Hoi An and the Imperial City of Hue. From there, you will venture into the stunning natural beauty of Ha Giang and its famous loop, before ending your journey in the capital city of Hanoi.

This itinerary covers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring Vietnam’s rich history to trekking through stunning natural landscapes and sampling the country’s famous cuisine. By following this itinerary, you can be sure to make the most of your time in Vietnam and experience everything that this beautiful country has to offer.

So pack your bags, get ready for an adventure of a lifetime, and let this itinerary take you on a journey through the best of Vietnam in just three weeks!

Week 1: Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta

Week one of your Vietnam itinerary is all about immersing yourself in the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest city. You’ll begin your journey by arriving in this exciting metropolis, where you’ll be greeted with a rush of energy and excitement. The streets are buzzing with activity, from the motorbikes zipping past to the food vendors selling their delicious wares on every corner.

You’ll have plenty of time to explore the city and get a taste of its unique culture. Take a stroll through the streets and marvel at the French colonial architecture, visit the bustling markets and sample some of the local street food. You’ll also get to visit the War Remnants Museum, which offers a sobering insight into the Vietnam War, and tour the Cu Chi Tunnels, where you can crawl through the underground network that played a key role in the war.

But your adventure in Ho Chi Minh City is just the beginning. You’ll also have the chance to venture out of the city and experience the natural beauty of the Mekong Delta. Take a day trip to the delta, where you’ll cruise along the canals and visit a local fruit farm and candy factory. You’ll get to sample some of the freshest fruit and tastiest sweets you’ve ever had, all while surrounded by the lush greenery of the delta.

Overall, week one is an exciting and action-packed start to your Vietnam itinerary. You’ll get a taste of the country’s history, culture, and natural beauty, all while experiencing the energy and excitement of Ho Chi Minh City. So get ready to be swept away by the sights and sounds of this incredible city, and experience everything that Vietnam has to offer in just one week.

Week 2: Danang, Hoi An and Hue

Week two of your Vietnam itinerary is all about exploring the cultural and historical gems of Hoi An and Hue. You’ll start your journey in the beautiful ancient town of Hoi An, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved architecture and charming streets.

As you explore Hoi An, you’ll be transported back in time to the days of the silk trade and the spice route. You’ll get to visit iconic landmarks like the Japanese Bridge and the Old House of Tan Ky, both of which are testaments to the town’s rich history and culture. You’ll also have the chance to cycle to the countryside, where you can get a glimpse of rural life in Vietnam and interact with locals.

But that’s not all – you’ll also take a day trip to Ba Na Hills, a stunning mountain resort that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Here you’ll experience the viral Golden Bridge, a unique architectural masterpiece that has captured the attention of the world.

After soaking up the charm of Hoi An, you’ll head to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Here you’ll get to explore the magnificent Imperial City, which was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. You’ll be awestruck by the grandeur of the citadel, which is home to numerous palaces, temples, and gardens.

Finally, you’ll take a relaxing cruise on the Perfume River, which is a popular attraction in Hue. You’ll get to enjoy the serene beauty of the river and soak up the tranquil atmosphere of the surrounding landscapes.

Overall, week two is all about immersing yourself in Vietnam’s rich history and culture. From exploring the ancient town of Hoi An to visiting the Imperial City of Hue, you’ll get to experience the country’s most iconic landmarks and attractions. So get ready for a journey back in time, and experience the best of Vietnam’s cultural and historical offerings in just one week.

Week 3: Hanoi, Ha Giang Loop and Halong Bay

The final leg of your Vietnam adventure takes you to the stunning Ha Giang Loop and vibrant city of Hanoi. You’ll begin your journey in Ha Giang, a remote province located in the northernmost part of Vietnam. Here, you’ll experience breathtaking landscapes that are rarely seen by tourists.

The journey to Dong Van Plateau is itself an experience to remember. You’ll be taking a scenic drive through winding roads that offer stunning views of the lush green mountains and valleys. Once you reach the plateau, you’ll get to trek through the Ma Pi Leng Pass, which is one of the most stunning and challenging treks in Vietnam.

Along the way, you’ll get to visit ethnic minority markets and interact with locals. You’ll also have the opportunity to stay in a homestay and immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life.

After Ha Giang, you’ll head to Hanoi, the bustling capital city of Vietnam. Here, you’ll explore the historic Old Quarter and sample some of the best street food Vietnam has to offer. You’ll visit the Temple of Literature, a unique landmark that showcases Vietnam’s long-standing educational tradition.

You’ll also get to visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, which is a popular attraction in Hanoi. This is the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the founder of the modern state of Vietnam. The mausoleum is a stunning architectural masterpiece that pays tribute to the life and legacy of this iconic leader.

Finally, you’ll wrap up your Vietnam adventure with an overnight cruise in Halong Bay. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning landscapes and scenic views. You’ll get to relax on the deck of a traditional Vietnamese junk boat and soak up the beauty of the bay.

Overall, this three-week itinerary covers the best of Vietnam, from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the stunning landscapes of Ha Giang and Halong Bay. You’ll get to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Vietnam, interact with locals, and create unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this 3-week itinerary covering South to North Vietnam with the Ha Giang Loop is truly a journey of a lifetime. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the stunning landscapes of Ha Giang and Halong Bay, you’ll experience the best of Vietnam’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

Throughout the itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to explore ancient towns, trek through lush green mountains, visit historic landmarks, and immerse yourself in local culture. You’ll also have the chance to sample some of the best street food in the world, interact with friendly locals, and create unforgettable memories.

To make the most of your itinerary, be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and an open mind. Take the time to explore off the beaten path and interact with locals, as this will add depth and meaning to your journey.

If you have more time to explore, there are plenty of other destinations in Vietnam that are worth a visit. Some of these include the Central Highlands, Ninh Binh, Pu Luong and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

In closing, we encourage you to visit Vietnam and experience its wonders. This itinerary is just the beginning of what this incredible country has to offer, and we hope that it inspires you to embark on your own journey of discovery. If you are considering this trip, just contact one of our travel specialists and we will get back to you straight away with a free proposal.