Vietnam in 2 Weeks: The Perfect North-to-South Itinerary (2026)

From Hanoi's old quarter to the Mekong Delta — how to travel the length of Vietnam in two weeks, what to skip, and the overnight train that's worth every hour.

Vietnam is long, narrow, and packed with such variety that two weeks feels both generous and never enough. The classic route runs north to south (or south to north) down the spine of the country. Here's how to do it without rushing or wasting days on travel.

Days 1-3: Hanoi

Start in the chaotic, wonderful capital. Get lost in the Old Quarter, eat bun cha where Obama did (and a dozen better places nearby), and drink egg coffee on a tiny stool. Take a day to slow down at the Temple of Literature and around Hoan Kiem Lake at dawn when locals do tai chi.

Days 4-5: Ha Long Bay or Ninh Binh

For the famous limestone karsts over water, do an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay (or quieter Lan Ha Bay). Prefer land? Ninh Binh — "Ha Long Bay on land" — offers the same karst drama by bicycle and rowboat, with a fraction of the crowds.

Days 6-8: Hoi An

Fly or take the train to Da Nang, then Hoi An — the most charming town in Vietnam. Lantern-lit streets, the best tailors in Asia (get clothes made), incredible food, and a quiet beach nearby. Most travelers' favorite stop.

Days 9-10: Hue and the train

The Hai Van Pass between Da Nang and Hue is one of the world's great coastal roads. Hue's imperial citadel rewards a day. Then take the reunification train south — slow, scenic, and a highlight in itself.

Days 11-14: Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong

End in the energetic south. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) for history (the War Remnants Museum is essential and sobering), street food, and rooftop bars. Day-trip to the Mekong Delta floating markets or the Cu Chi tunnels.

Practical notes

Visa: Most nationalities need an e-visa — apply a week ahead.
Getting around: Domestic flights are cheap and save days; overnight trains and sleeper buses save accommodation.
Budget: $35-50/day is comfortable; backpackers do it for less.
Best months: Vietnam's climate varies by region — broadly, spring (Mar-Apr) and autumn (Sep-Nov) are safest country-wide.

Find detailed Vietnam itineraries from creators who traveled it →