How to spend 3 weeks in Vietnam — 5 unique itineraries

Vietnam, with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine is an amazing country that offers an incredible travel experience. While a shorter visit can cover the essentials, spending three weeks here allows you to immerse yourself in its beauty and diversity. Here’s how to spend 3 weeks in Vietnam, with five unique itineraries crafted by our local travel experts.

Itinerary #1: Southern Vietnam exploration including Ho Chi Minh City

Spending three weeks in South Vietnam is an incredible journey through a region teeming with cultural richness and natural beauty. Here, you'll meander through a tapestry of life, with the hustle and bustle of historic markets and the fragrance of street food filling the air. 

Use this itinerary to help you plan your 3-week trip, or let us handle the planning and booking for you. 

Itinerary overview

Itinerary 1 offers a three-week exploration of Southern Vietnam, starting in Ho Chi Minh City with visits to cultural landmarks, moving on to Mai Chau Valley for nature and local experiences, then exploring the Mekong Delta in Can Tho, and finally ending the journey in Hoi An and Hue with cultural and historical highlights.

What do these 3 weeks in Vietnam look like.

Day 1

• Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City.
• Check into your hotel.
• Explore the city's vibrant street food scene.

Day 2

• Visit the War Remnants Museum.
• Explore the Independence Palace.
• Explore the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica.
• Walk around the historic Post Office.

Day 3

• Take a morning visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels.
• In the evening, enjoy a water puppetry show.

Day 4

• Travel to Mai Chau Valley.
• Explore the stunning rice paddies and traditional villages.
• Stay overnight in a local homestay.

Day 5

• Continue exploring Mai Chau Valley.
• Optional activities include hiking or cycling.
• Experience the local culture.

Day 6

• Travel to Can Tho in the Mekong Delta region.
• Explore the Cai Rang Floating Markets.
• For those looking to explore beyond the Mekong Delta, Bai Tu Long Bay is a fantastic alternative to Halong Bay, offering stunning landscapes and reduced tourist crowds.

Day 7

• Visit the FITO Museum of Traditional Medicine in Can Tho.
• Explore the local culture.

Day 8

• Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time in Can Tho before heading to the airport for your departure.

Day 9

• Arrive in Hoi An.
• Explore the charming ancient town.
• Visit the Cham Museum.

Day 10

• Take a cooking class in Hoi An.
• Explore the local markets.
• Enjoy a lantern-lit evening along the river.

Day 11

• Relax on the beautiful beaches of Hoi An.
• Optional: Visit Kim Long Village.

Day 12

• Travel to Hue.
• Visit the Hue Citadel and Imperial City.
• Explore the Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities.

Day 13

• Visit Dong Ba Market for shopping and local street food.
• Explore the Khai Dinh Tombs.

Day 14

• Take a boat trip to Thien Mu Pagoda.
• Explore the serene Perfume River.

Day 15

• Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time in Hue before heading to the airport for your departure.

Looking for options for a shorter vacation in Vietnam? Find inspiration in our 10-day Vietnam itineraries.

Itinerary #2: Northern Vietnam’s Wonders including Ha Long Bay

Embarking on a three-week exploration of North Vietnam is an immersive narrative etched in history and framed by breathtaking landscapes. Hanoi's frenetic streets tell stories of ancient temples and French colonial elegance, all woven into the urban fabric. 

Venture into the misty hinterlands of Sapa to commune with indigenous hill tribes, and then sail through the surreal limestone karsts of Halong Bay. There is plenty to do and see in North and Central Vietnam. 

Itinerary overview

The itinerary for a Northern Vietnam adventure spans three weeks, beginning with cultural exploration in Hanoi, a rural escape to Mai Chau Valley, and a visit to scenic Ninh Binh. 

The journey then continues with a Halong Bay cruise, central Vietnam's charm in Hoi An and Da Lat, a glimpse into Tay Ninh's unique religious practices, and culminates with historical and cultural experiences in Hue.

Ready to take this trip without the hassle of planning and booking? Book it with us today.

What do these 3 weeks in North Vietnam look like.

Day 1

• Arrive in Hanoi.
• Check into your hotel.
• Explore the Old Quarter and try some local street food.

Day 2

• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
• Explore the Presidential Palace.
• Stroll around the One Pillar Pagoda.
• Evening Water Puppet Show.

Day 3

• Travel to Mai Chau Valley.
• Explore the picturesque rice paddies and traditional villages.
• Overnight in a local homestay.

Day 4 

• Continue exploring Mai Chau Valley.
• Optional hiking or cycling.
• Experience the local culture.

Day 5

• Travel to Ninh Binh.
• Visit Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.
• Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.

Day 6

• Embark on a Halong Bay cruise, where you can choose from a variety of options to suit your preferences and budget.
• Explore the stunning limestone formations and caves.
• Enjoy kayaking and swimming.

Day 7

• Continue your Halong Bay cruise.
• Visit a fishing village.
• Enjoy the sunset on the bay.

Day 8

• Arrive in Hoi An.
• Explore the charming ancient town.
• Visit the Cham Museum.

Day 9

• Take a cooking class in Hoi An.
• Explore the local markets.
• Enjoy a lantern-lit evening along the river. The Thu Bon River provides a picturesque setting for various activities such as leisurely boat rides and evening lantern releases.

Day 10

• Relax on the beautiful beaches of Hoi An.
• Optional: Visit Kim Long Village.

Day 11

• Travel to Da Lat.
• Explore the Crazy House.
• Visit Dalat Cathedral.

Day 12

• Explore Da Lat's flower gardens and Xuan Huong Lake.
• Enjoy the local cuisine.

Day 13

• Travel to Tay Ninh.
• Visit the Cao Dai Holy See Temple.
• Experience the unique Cao Dai religious ceremony.

Day 14

• Travel to Hue.
• Visit the Hue Citadel and Imperial City.
• Explore the Hue Museum.

Day 15

• Visit Dong Ba Market for shopping and local street food.
• Explore the Khai Dinh Royal Tombs.

Day 16

• Take a boat trip to Thien Mu Pagoda.
• Explore the serene Perfume River.

Day 17

• Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time in Hue before heading to the airport for your departure.

Ready to embark on an adventure? Book your trip now.

More ideas for exploring North Vietnam can be found in our North Vietnam itineraries.

Itinerary #3: Very Vietnam

Vietnam never ceases to amaze, effortlessly blending the charm of antiquity with the vibrancy of the present. 

On this 3 week Vietnam itinerary, you’ll explore lush rice paddies, immerse yourself in the essence of traditional villages, wander through bustling markets, and visit the serene temples and pagodas.

Itinerary overview

This itinerary covers a comprehensive 19-day journey through Vietnam, beginning with exploration in Hanoi, including visits to cultural sites, museums, and a water puppet show. 

The itinerary then proceeds to picturesque locations like Mai Chau Valley, Ninh Binh, and Halong Bay, followed by a cultural and historical immersion in Hue, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Dalat. The trip ends with a visit to Ho Chi Minh City, including stops at Tay Ninh, Cu Chi Tunnels, and finally, departure from Tan Son Nhat Airport. Read more.

What these 3 weeks in Vietnam look like.

Day 1

• Arrive at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport.
• Transfer to your hotel and check-in.
• City tour in the afternoon, including Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and the Old Quarter of Hanoi.

Day 2

• Full-day city tour, visiting Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, One-Pillar Pagoda, and the Army Museum.
• Explore the Temple of Literature, Fine Arts Museum, and Quan Thanh Temple.
• Enjoy a Water Puppet Show in the evening.

Day 3

• Explore more of Hanoi, including the Ho Chi Minh Museum, Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton), and the Vietnamese Women's Museum.

Day 4

• Drive to Mai Chau Valley.
• Explore surrounding villages and rice paddies by bicycle or on foot.
• Overnight in a traditional stilt house.

Day 5

• Drive to Ninh Binh, known as "the Dry Halong Bay."
• Explore Trang An Grottoes by boat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
• Overnight in Ninh Binh.

Day 6

• Drive to Halong via Hai Phong.
• Short sightseeing tour in Hai Phong.
• Overnight in Halong.

Day 7

• Explore Halong Bay, a World Heritage Site with limestone islets and caves.
• Visit islands, caves, and swim at Titov Beach.
• Dinner and overnight on the boat.

Day 8

• Continue your Halong Bay cruise in the morning.
• Return to Hanoi in the afternoon.
• Free time to explore Hanoi or relax.

Day 9 

• Fly to Hue.
• Take a boat trip on the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial City, and King Tu Duc’s Tomb.
• Stroll around Dong Ba Market if time allows.

Day 10

• Explore Kim Long Village by bike.
• Experience Hue’s cultural relics and art of living.

Day 11

• Drive to Hoi An via Danang, with a visit to the Cham Museum before proceeding to Hoi An.
• Free time to explore Hoi An in the evening.

Day 12

• Explore Hoi An's Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An Museum, and the local markets.
• Relax on An Bang Beach.

Day 13

• Join a tour to explore the local fishermen community, including fishing techniques and a seafood lunch.

Day 14

• Fly to Nha Trang.
• Visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers and Long Son Pagoda.

Day 15

• Drive to Da Lat.
• Explore Da Lat, visiting the Summer Palace of Emperor Bao Dai, Xuan Huong Lake, and the "Crazy House."

Day 16

• Visit the Da Lat Flower Garden and stop by tea, coffee, and rubber plantations.
• Drive to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 17

• City tour, including the History Museum, former Presidential Palace, Central Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral.
• Afternoon visit to Thien Hau Temple, Chinatown, and Binh Tay Market.

Day 18

• Visit Tay Ninh to explore Cao Dai.
• Continue to Cu Chi Tunnels, used during the Vietnam War.
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City for the night.

Day 19 

• Enjoy leisure time until your transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for departure.

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now.

Don't have a lot of time at your disposal? Our 5-day Vietnam itineraries will come to your rescue.

Itinerary #4: Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos including UNESCO World Heritage Sites

A little less than 3 weeks in Vietnam, but this 18-day itinerary takes you on a comprehensive journey through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. It includes exploration of historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and scenic cruises, starting in Ho Chi Minh City and ending in Hue, with highlights like Angkor Wat and Luang Prabang along the way.

Itinerary overview

Start and end your journey in Ho Chi Minh City. On this trip, you’ll explore must-see destinations including the Mekong Delta, Phnom Penh featuring the Killing Fields, the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, and the culturally rich city of Luang Prabang in Laos.

Your return leg takes you back to Vietnam, where the captivating cities of Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Hoi An beckon your exploration. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrival at Ho Chi Minh City.
• Transfer to the hotel for check-in.
• Leisure time.

Day 2

• Explore historical buildings: Opera House, Continental Hotel, Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Saigon Post Office, and Reunification Palace.
• Visit the War Remnants Museum.

Day 3

• Visit Cu Chi Tunnels.
• Explore Cao Dai Temple of Caodaism.
• Leisure time.

Day 4 

• Take a boat ride on the Tien River.
• Visit My Tho Fish Market and islands.
• Horse-drawn carriage ride and cultural experiences.
• Drive to Can Tho.

Day 5 

• Morning boat cruise on the Mekong River.
• Explore the Cai Rang Floating Market.
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 6

• Fly to Phnom Penh.
• Check-in and leisure time.

Day 7

• Explore the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, Wat Phnom.
• Visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields.

Day 8

• Drive to Siem Reap, passing through Kampong Thom.
• Visit local villages and ancient sites.
• Check-in and leisure time in Siem Reap.

Day 9 

• Explore Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, Elephant Terrace.
• Visit Angkor Wat and Bakheng Temple for sunset.

Day 10

• Visit Banteay Srei and Ta Prohm Temples.

Day 11

• Morning boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake.
• Explore Kompong Phluk village.
• Fly to Luang Prabang, Laos.

Day 12

• Witness the morning alms-giving ritual.
• Explore the Royal Palace Museum, Wat Xieng Thong, and more.
• Sunset at Mount Phousi and visit the Phousi Night Market.

Day 13

• Morning Mekong River cruise.
• Visit Pak Ou Caves and local villages.

Day 14 

• Visit Elephant Village and interact with elephants.
• Take a traditional boat ride to Tad Sae Waterfalls.

Day 15

• Explore Kuang Si Falls.
• Fly to Hanoi, Vietnam.

Day 16

• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, House on Stilts, One Pillar Pagoda.
• Explore the Temple of Literature and Old Quarter.

Day 17

• Travel to Halong Bay for a 2-day cruise.
• Explore Halong Bay and optional activities.

Day 18 

• Optional Tai Chi class and visit Sung Sot Cave.
• Return to Hanoi and fly to Hue.

Don't bother with all the details; book your trip with us today.

Itinerary #5: The Southeast Asia Tour

Do you have a bit more time than 3 weeks in Vietnam? This extensive 23-day itinerary covers multiple countries, including Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand, offering a diverse cultural and historical experiences.

It includes visits to iconic landmarks, scenic cruises, and opportunities to explore local markets and attractions in each destination, culminating with a departure from Bangkok.

Itinerary overview

Embark on an adventure spanning just over three weeks as you explore the top attractions in four countries. Begin with Vietnam, where you'll discover the enchanting Halong Bay and the vibrant Mekong Delta, alongside the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. 

Next, venture into Cambodia to explore the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat. Continue your journey to Laos, where you can witness the serene sight of monks in Luang Prabang. 

Finally, conclude your trip to Thailand, where you'll have the chance to interact with elephants and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Bangkok. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport.
• Transfer to the hotel.
• Leisure time.

Day 2

• Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Stilt House.
• Explore One Pillar Pagoda, Hoa Lo Prison, and the Temple of Literature.
• Visit the Museum of Ethnology.
• Experience a cyclo ride in the Old Quarter.
• Explore Hoan Kiem Lake.
• Enjoy a water puppet show.

Day 3

• Travel to Halong Bay for a 2-day cruise.
• Sail through islets and visit a fishing village.
• Optional activities like kayaking, swimming, and diving.

Day 4

• Try a Tai Chi class in the morning.
• Visit Sung Sot Cave.
• Return to Hanoi.
• Fly to Hue.

Day 5

• Visit the Tomb of King Minh Mang.
• Take a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda.
• Explore Imperial Citadel and Forbidden Purple City.
• Visit Dong Ba Market.

Day 6

• Drive to Hoi An via Hai Van Pass.
• Stop in Da Nang to visit Cham Museum and Non Nuoc Beach.
• Check-in and leisure time in Hoi An.

Day 7

• Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, Chinese Temple, and Vietnamese Merchant's House.
• Boat ride to Thanh Ha Pottery Village.
• Explore Hoi An at night.

Day 8

• Fly to Ho Chi Minh City.
• Guided city tour including the Opera House, City Hall, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Central Post Office.

Day 9 

• Explore Cu Chi Tunnels.
• Visit Ben Thanh Market, War Remnants Museum, and the Reunification Palace.
• Explore the Old Saigon Post Office and Dong Khoi Street.

Day 10

• Take a boat ride on Tien River, visiting four islands.
• Visit My Tho Fish Market and local attractions.
• Drive to Can Tho.

Day 11

• Visit the Cai Rang Floating Market near Can Tho.
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City.
• Free time.

Day 12

• Fly to Siem Reap.
• Explore Siem Reap at leisure.

Day 13

• Explore Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, and Elephant Terrace.
• Visit Angkor Wat and Bakheng Temple for sunset.

Day 14 

• Fly to Luang Prabang.
• Explore Luang Prabang at leisure.

Day 15

• Observe the morning alms-giving ceremony.
• Visit local markets and temples.
• Take a trip to Kuang Si Falls.
• Sunset view from Mount Phousi.

Day 16

• Morning Mekong River cruise.
• Visit Pak Ou Caves and local villages.

Day 17

• Fly to Chiang Mai.
• Explore Chiang Mai at leisure.

Day 18

• Visit Baan Chang Elephant Park for an elephant interaction experience.

Day 19 

• Explore Wat Umong and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

Day 20

• Fly to Bangkok.
• Explore Bangkok at your leisure.

Day 21

• Visit local markets.
• Tour the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Arun.
• Take a long-tail boat ride through the canals.

Day 22

• Excursion to Ayutthaya.
• Visit Bang Pa-In Summer Palace and Ayutthaya Historical Park.
• Return to Bangkok.

Day 23

• Transfer to the airport for your departure.

Excited to discover? Don’t wait - book this trip now.

Looking for more ideas for your trip to Vietnam? Explore our range of 14-day itineraries in Vietnam.

Let us plan your 3 week Vietnam itinerary

Allow our team of local experts to curate your dream trip to Vietnam. When you're ready to embark on your adventure, reach out to us, and we'll fashion a personalized itinerary just for you. Feel free to browse our pre-designed Vietnam itineraries for ideas, and remember that all can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

Is your trip to Vietnam just around the corner? Be prepared by reading our tips for traveling in Vietnam.