Get ready to embark on an unforgettable 2 week adventure through Central and Northern Vietnam, one of the most exciting destinations in Southeast Asia! This guide will help you plan the perfect Vietnam itinerary, making sure you experience both the iconic landmarks and the hidden gems that make a trip to Vietnam so special.
From the buzzing chaos of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake, to the jaw-dropping natural beauty of Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba Island, and the colorful, lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, this 2 week North Vietnam itinerary is packed with epic moments, cultural highlights, and plenty of mouthwatering Vietnamese street foods along the way.
This itinerary focuses on Central and North Vietnam, from Hoi An to Hanoi. Exploring the whole country including South Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang or Phu Quoc Island, would take far more than just two weeks in Vietnam so I would suggest either breaking it up into 2 trips OR just one much longer adventure.
For now, let’s dive into the must-see sights, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path gems that will make this 2 week North Vietnam itinerary truly unforgettable!
Table of contents
- Overview: Hoi An to Hanoi North Vietnam Itinerary (2 weeks)
- Days 1-4 Vietnam Itinerary – Hoi An and Danang
- Things to do in Hoi An
- Days – 4-6 Hue
- Getting to Hue from Hoi An / Danang
- Days 6 – 14 – Hanoi, Halong Bay & Ninh Binh
- Days 8-10 – Ninh Binh
- Days 10-13 – Halong Bay
- Days 13-14 – Hanoi
- End – Vietnam Itinerary 2 Weeks
Overview: Hoi An to Hanoi North Vietnam Itinerary (2 weeks)
Vietnam Itinerary – Quick Links
HOI AN & DANANG
Shared Airport Bus from Danang Airport to Da Nang or Hoi An
WHERE TO STAY
TOURS AND ATTRACTIONS:
Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge Day Tour
Vietnamese Cooking Class & Coconut Forest Basket Boat
HUE
Book Train ticket from Danang to Hue – baolau.com
WHERE TO STAY
HANOI
WHERE TO STAY
Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel
TOURS AND ATTRACTIONS:
Train Street & Incense Farm Tour
NINH BINH
TRANSFER: We booked this transfer: CLICK HERE
WHERE TO STAY
HALONG BAY
CRUISE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Capella_Cruises in Halong Bay OR Indochina Junk Tour in Bai Tu Long Bay
| Destination | Minimum Stay | Transport In | Transport Out |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hoi An & Da Nang | 4 nights | Fly in from your home country | Scenic Train Danang to Hue |
| Hue | 2 nights | Train from Da Nang | Flight to Hanoi |
| Hanoi | 3 nights | Flight from Hue | Car transfer to Ninh Binh |
| Ninh Binh | 2 nights | Car from Hanoi | Car transfer to Ha Long Bay |
| Ha Long Bay | 3 nights | Car from Ninh Binh | Car transfer to Hanoi |
| Hanoi (Return) | — | Fly home of your next destination | — |
Days 1-4 Vietnam Itinerary – Hoi An and Danang
For the first stop in this Vietnam Itinerary, you will spend 4 nights and 3 full days exploring the cultural charm and coastal beauty of Hoi An and Danang the gems of Central Vietnam. They’re the perfect starting point for your 2 week Vietnam adventure!
Choose from the activities below to create your own Hoi An and Da Nang itinerary or follow along my day by day itinerary here: Hoi An Itinerary.
Hoi An
Just 30km from Da Nang, Hoi An Ancient Town is one of Vietnam’s most beloved destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wandering its lantern-lit streets feels like stepping back in time, with preserved architecture, riverside cafés, and bustling markets. It’s the perfect introduction to Vietnamese food, from famous street food stalls to cozy family-run restaurants. Don’t miss the Japanese Covered Bridge, the colorful night market by the Thu Bon River, and a scenic boat ride at sunset.
Hoi An is also famous for its tailor shops, where you can have custom outfits made in just a couple of days, a unique highlight of any Vietnam trip. Plus, its location near golden beaches makes it easy to balance cultural immersion with some well-deserved relaxation.
Da Nang
If you’re looking for a mix of city buzz and seaside vibes, Da Nang offers exactly that. Known for its modern resorts, long stretches of soft sand like My Khe Beach, and vibrant city center, it’s a fun contrast to Hoi An’s historic atmosphere. For those flying in, Da Nang Airport is a convenient gateway to Central and Northern Vietnam, making it an easy starting point for your journey.
Popular things to do include visiting the Marble Mountains, taking a day trip to the Hai Van Pass for incredible coastal views, and indulging in the city’s thriving street food scene.
Why I Chose To Base Ourselves in Hoi An
Between the two, we chose to base ourselves in Hoi An. While Da Nang has its modern appeal, Hoi An’s ancient charm, cultural depth, and slower pace offered exactly the experience we were craving. Immersing ourselves in this historic town felt like the perfect way to begin our Vietnam itinerary and ease into the rhythm of travel before heading north toward Hanoi.
Where We Stayed in Hoi An
We stayed at the Citadines Pearl Hoi An and it was the perfect base to explore both Hoi An and Danang!
Citadines Pearl Hoi An features include:
- Located on award winning beach: An Bang Beach
- One of the largest swimming pool in Hoi An 1600sqm
- Gym
- Tennis Courts
- Kids Club
- Shuttle Bus
- Day Spa
- The Old Quarter is only 5-10 minutes by car or the Resorts Shuttle service
- Many onsite restaurants and bars
- Onsite movie theatre
You can find out more here: Citadines Pearl Hoi An
Other Hotel Suggestions
- 1. LUXURIOUS Beachfront Resort: Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai (Located in Dien Duong)
- 2. CONVENIENCE: Bay Resort Hoi An (Located on the banks of Hoai River, close to the Old Quarter
- 3. RAVING REVIEWS: located 3km from the Old Quarter is Anio Boutique Hotel Hoi An – (located 3km from the Old Quarter)
Danang
Hotel Suggestions
- The Memory – Danang (Budget)
- Danang Marriot (luxury)
Four Points by Sheraton Danang is an affordably priced hotel, located in Danang City, with panoramic views over My Khe beach.
Day by Day Itinerary Hoi An and Danang
To see our FULL GUIDE click The Best Things To Do in Hoi An and Danang.
Things to do in Hoi An
- Old Quarter: Wander through Hoi An’s Old Quarter, adorned with historic buildings and lantern-lit streets, offering a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage.
- Basket Boat Tour: A FUN, and scenic trip through the palm fringed waterways of Hoi An. HIGHLIGHLY RECOMMEND
- Marble Mountain: Explore the majestic Marble Mountain, a cluster of limestone hills dotted with ancient caves, pagodas, and panoramic views of the coast.
- Night Markets: Discover Hoi An’s vibrant night markets, bustling with local vendors selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and delectable street food under the glow of colorful lanterns.Night
- Lantern Ritual: Witness the magical night lantern ritual along the Thu Bon River, where floating lanterns light up the water during a serene and spiritual ceremony.
- Get Clothes Tailored: Our recommendation: Hay Hay Tailors
Things to do in Danang
- Golden Bridge & Ba Na Hills (this tour can be arranged from Danang or Hoi An) To begin this trip you will take in panoramic views from the cable car ride up – one of the longest in the world. Afterward, spend time exploring the rest of the Themepark, including the games and fun experiences at the action-packed theme park Fantasy Park.
- My Khe Beach: Khe Beach is renowned for its beautiful white sand beaches, 5 star hotels and foreshore stretch with dining / bar options lining the beach front.
- Han Market: Grab a bargain and get ready to barter for some local souvenirs, clothing, foot ware, and locale delicacies.
- Linh Ung Pagoda: Visit impressive pagoda AND Buddha statue which overlooks both the city and the ocean.
- Dragon Bridge: The Dragon Bridge is an iconic landmark spanning the Han River in Danang. If you plan to visit on a weekend evening, you will get to watch the fire breathing display.
Days – 4-6 Hue
Getting to Hue from Hoi An / Danang
Best way to get to Hue is to catch a Train to Hue from Danang. Additionally, it is also one of the most scenic rides in Vietnam along the coastline.
➡️ Vietnam Railways – Book through – baolau.com
(If you want a full cabin book all 4 tickets of the cabin)
Where we stayed in Hue
Pisces Hotel Hue is PHENOMENAL and SOOOOO Cheap.
It is one block from the main ‘Walking and Beer Street’ and the rooms are DIVINE!
See more: Pisces Hotel Hue
Things to do in Hue
- I HIGHLY RECOMMEDED: Imperial City Citadel
Other Sites and Tours in Hue:
- Abandoned Waterpark (Dragon) visit the instagramable and infamous Abandoned Waterpark LOCATION IN MAPS: Ho Thuy Tien waterpark
- Thein Mu Pagoda
- Walk along perfume River
- Alba Thanh Tan Hot Spring
- Thuy Xuan Incense Village
- Tomb of Emperor Khai Ding
Where to eat and drink:
- Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street & Beer Street
Travel to Hanoi (Flight) Continuing the Journey from Hoi An to Hanoi
There are several ways to get from Danang / Hoi An to Hanoi, BUT for the price I would highly recommend just flying. The prices for flights in Vietnam are cheap
The best way to travel from Hoi An to Hanoi depends on your preferences for convenience, time, and experience. Here are the main options:
- Flight: Flying from Danang International Airport (closest airport to Hoi An) to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi is the fastest and most convenient option. The flight takes approximately 1.5 hours, offering you more time to explore both cities rather than spending long hours on the road or railway.
- Train: The journey takes around 14-16 hours, depending on the type of train you choose (sleeper or express). Trains provide a comfortable experience with sleeper berths available for overnight travel, allowing you to wake up refreshed in Hanoi.
- Bus: Several bus companies operate between Hoi An and Hanoi, offering a budget-friendly option with varying levels of comfort and travel time. The bus journey typically takes around 13-15 hours.
Choosing the best way to travel depends on your budget, time constraints, and preference for either speed or enjoying the scenic route. Each mode of transport offers its own unique advantages, ensuring your journey from Hoi An to Hanoi is comfortable and memorable.
Days 6 – 14 – Hanoi, Halong Bay & Ninh Binh
Where we stayed in Hanoi
Other Hotel Suggestions
Other options in Hanoi: Hotels in HANOI with Rooftops (Luxury & Affordable)
Our favorite places to stay:
- Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel Luxurious hotel located in the Old Quarter with a stunning Rooftop Restaurant and Bar.
- Rex Hotel Hanoi is an AFFORDABLE option right in the heart of the Old Quarter with a Rooftop bar, and swimming pool.
- May De Ville Luxury Hotel & Spa You’ll love the rooftop pool, restaurant and bar in this mid range hotel in Central Hanoi.
Things to do in Hanoi
Discover the must see places in Hanoi, Vietnam. Explore the rich tradition and vibrant attractions of this exciting city.
Your Complete Guide to the BEST things you NEED to Do in HANOI
Our Favorite Tour and thing to do while we were in Hanoi:
This was our Favorite Day Tour while we were in Hanoi and it included a visit to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village AND the one of the famous Train Street Cafes. You can find out more about the exact tour we did here
View the rest of our list of the: Best things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam – Your complete guide
Days 8-10 – Ninh Binh
Next stop in this 2 weeks in Northern and Central Vietnam Itinerary is Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh, known as the Halong Bay of the land, is natural paradise with its rich and vase waterways, caves and UNESCO World Heritage site of Tran An. It is definitely worth visiting and was one of the absolute highlights of my trip!
How to get to Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is located 2-2.5 hours away from Hanoi. The best way to travel to Ninh Binh is by luxury transfer. We booked this transfer: CLICK HERE
Where to stay in Ninh Binh
We stayed here, at the Hang Lan Bungalows. They are located in a very central part of Ninh Binh, a short ride or walk to many local highlights. The overwater rustic bungalows are set on the river and have a beautiful outlook over the Tam Coc Mountains and rice fields.
Things to Do in Ninh Binh
- MUST DO: Mua Cave offers visitors a breathtaking panorama of the Tam Coc region from its summit, accessible via a steep but rewarding climb of about 500 steps. Within the grounds of the Mua Cave complex you will also find the Lotus Lake & Boardwalk (in bloom May-June).
- MUST DO: Tran An Boat Tour (If you only have time for one boat trip – DO THIS ONE)
- Bich Dong Pagoda at Tam Coc
- Boat Trip in Tam Coc
- Hire a bike and ride through the rice fields.
Night-time Things to do in Ninh Binh:
- Pho Co Hao Lu
- Is right on the river and has a beautiful lit pagoda, as well as lantern and boats similar to Hoi An, BUT quieter
Days 10-13 – Halong Bay
Halong Bay is a must for any Vietnam Itinerary, and is UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in northeastern Vietnam. It is renowned for its thousands of limestone islands and islets rising dramatically from emerald waters.
Halong Bay is a vision straight off a postcard.
Who we cruised with in Halong Bay
Find out about our FULL EXPERIENCE on this LUXURY Cruise from Halong Bay to Lan Ha Bay here:
We were lucky enough to go on two cruises out of Halong Bay and I have included the information below.
The first one was with: Capella_Cruises
Capella_Cruises cruises through Lan Ha Bay and is a 5 star boat and experience.
The highlights for us were the oasis infinity pool and the 9m inflatable slide.
All suites had generous sized balcony’s, spa baths and the food was out of this world!
Included Activities: Swimming and Kayaking off the boat, 9m water slide, Bamboo boat tour of the caves, cooking lessons, Happy Hour, Cigar / Poker tournaments, Tai Chi and lastly a Karaoke Room, exploring the Lan Ha Bay region including frog lagoon and dark cave and bright cave.
Our second cruise was with Indochina Junk Tour. Indo China Junk has 2 night / 3 day cruise through Bai Tu Long bay (departing from Halong Bay). Bai Tu Long Bay is lesser known, quieter and equally as beautiful neighbor to Halong Bay!
Included Activities: A visit to the Vung Vieng fishing village and the Da Xep Geology Park. A private island BBQ lunch and a trip to exploring Thien Canh Son cave.
We also enjoyed kayaking, cooking demonstrations, morning Tai Chi on the deck and night squid fishing.
Find out more: Indochina Junk Tour
Days 13-14 – Hanoi
Enjoy some last-minute shopping and your last dose of local Vietnamese cuisine before you Flying Home and wrapping up this Hoi An to Hanoi Vietnam Itinerary over 2 weeks
