Vietnam is a country of staggering beauty and diversity — from the limestone karsts of Halong Bay to the lantern-lit canals of Hoi An and the frenetic energy of Ho Chi Minh City. Two weeks is the sweet spot for seeing the highlights without rushing.
Days 1-3: Hanoi
Start in the 1,000-year-old capital. Wander the Old Quarter's 36 streets — each named for the goods once sold there (Silk Street, Paper Street, Herbal Medicine Street). Sip egg coffee at a hidden balcony cafe overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake. Eat bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) at the spot where Obama and Anthony Bourdain dined. Don't miss the Temple of Literature and a water puppet show at Thang Long Theatre.
Days 3-4: Halong Bay
Board a traditional junk boat for an overnight cruise among 1,600 limestone islands. Kayak through hidden lagoons, explore floating fishing villages, and watch sunrise from the deck with a Vietnamese coffee in hand. Choose a boat that includes Bai Tu Long Bay — it's the quieter, equally beautiful neighbor.
Days 5-7: Hoi An & Hue
Hoi An is Vietnam's most charming town — lanterns, tailor shops, and some of the best food in the country. Take a cooking class, get measured for a custom suit (ready in 24 hours), and bike through rice paddies to An Bang Beach. Spend a day in Hue, the former imperial capital, exploring the Citadel and the elaborate royal tombs along the Perfume River.
Days 8-14: Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta
Saigon moves at double speed. Navigate the motorbike chaos to reach Notre-Dame Cathedral, the War Remnants Museum, and Ben Thanh Market. Take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Then slow down with 2 days in the Mekong Delta — floating markets at dawn, coconut candy workshops, and homestays among fruit orchards.
