Best Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks: Discovery Combine with Relaxation

July 13, 2023 - 423 views

Vietnam is endowed with striking and impressive landscapes and nature, but just by going on a tour through Vietnam, you will be able to admire those beautiful beauties. For your upcoming vacation, let's refer to the best Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks below.

Vietnam is always at the top of the list for many other travelers when it comes to a worthy country to visit. It's a vast country, home to majestic rainforests, unique limestone cliffs, and fantastic mountain roads. Away from wonderful nature are cities full of fascinating culture and history. In addition, the rich and unique cuisine is also a factor that captivates countless tourists when coming to this small and hospitable country.

Is it possible to explore the beauty of this country in 3 weeks? The good news is that it is feasible with the help of the BestPrice Travel team. We will do our best to bring you great 3 weeks in Vietnam itinerary. So, without wasting more time, let's discover this country in this Vietnam itinerary for 3 weeks!

Day 1: Set Foot in Hanoi Capital

Your three weeks in Vietnam should get started in Hanoi, the beautiful capital with more than 1000-years of history. Hanoi is an attractive destination if you want to explore tourism in the North. There are old streets and historical sites dyed with time. The capital land is home to the most monuments in Vietnam and many UNESCO heritages. In particular, you can quickly move to many other places from Hanoi. 

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Hanoi Arrival

Welcome to Hanoi Old Quarter

Noi Bai Airport always welcomes all of you! Besides activities related to flight procedures, other convenient services such as free transfer, medical services, and food are available. As long as you set foot in Hanoi, you can spend time resting or exploring this charming capital on your way on the first day.

Day 2: Admire the Nostalgic Beauty of Hanoi

A Hanoi tour typically begins with an excursion to historical attractions around the city. 

A historical-cultural relic you shouldn't miss is the Temple of Literature - the first university in Vietnam. Unlike other religious temples, this is the first university of Vietnam, founded in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong. It was a place of learning for royalty, mandarins, and upper classes in Vietnamese history.

Today, the Temple of Literature is not only a famous historical area for many visitors but also attracts many candidates and students to pray for their future academic careers. The site is always open on all days of the week, including holidays, to serve the sightseeing needs.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Temple Of Literature

Temple of Literature - The first university in Vietnam

The next destination in your Hanoi tour will be the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the resting place of Vietnam's greatest leader, and the One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic thousands-of-years-old architectural work of Hanoi.

Located in the mausoleum complex, One Pillar Pagoda has a unique architecture built on a stone pillar rising above the lake. It symbolizes a lotus flower growing out of the water in Eastern culture, blooming pure and ethereal.

If you seek somewhere related to President Ho, the Ho Chi Minh Museum displays documents and artifacts and the cultural and revolutionary. You can access records about the period when Ho Chi Minh's thought was deeply formed and had significant changes in practical activities.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Ho Chi Minh Museum

Ho Chi Minh Museum

The day's final destination is West Lake, the capital's largest lake and is considered "Hanoi's green lung," and Tran Quoc Buddha Temple, the most ancient temple in this city. Don't miss out on the sunset glowing in the West Lake. Due to the best exploration, the best means of transportation is the motorbike. If you live far away and don't have a vehicle, you can choose to rent a motorbike in Hanoi with an affordable budget.

For those engrossed in Buddhism, Tran Quoc Pagoda, with more than 1,500 years old, fits you most. Once the Buddhist center of Thang Long under the feudatory dynasties, it becomes a spiritual destination of the capital, attracting many tourists to visit and worship every year.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Tran Quoc Pagoda

Tran Quoc Toan Pagoda

Day 3: Explore Ninh Binh & Night Train to Sapa

Spend the second day of 3 weeks in Vietnam visiting Ninh Binh, a city located at the southernmost point of the Red River Delta with many famous scenic spots.

The natural cave complex and unique limestone mountain system blending with the winding flow in Tam Coc complex are irreplaceable areas that the listed tour can't wipe out! There are various sightseeing routes, including boating, cycling, and walking. You can also use your free time to cycle and walk around the peaceful villages to admire the vast limestone mountains and enjoy the fresh air in the countryside. Or else, the boat tour is great to take from the central pier and winds through the charming cliffs, caves, and rice fields in only 2 hours.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Ninh Binh Boat Tour

Boat tour in Ninh Binh (Credit: Local Insiders)

When you reach the Ngo Dong River, you will be photographed with peaceful scenery of rice fields, mountains, and pagodas. The landscape here will become more remarkable during the rice harvest season thanks to the mats of ripe yellow rice growing on both sides of the river.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Tam Coc Ninh Binh

Stunning paddy fields in Tam Coc

Your next destination is Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, with over a thousand years of history. Hoa Lu is not only an ancient capital with many precious historical sites but also an attractive tourist destination for both domestic and foreign tourists. When visiting here, you will have the opportunity to understand more about this ancient capital, which also retains many illustrious relics. Moreover, through historical stories told by our tour guide, you will gain a deeper insight into Vietnamese history.

After the Ninh Binh trip, you may go back to the Hanoi train station and head to Sapa. You can rest or take a bath while waiting for the night train to Lao Cai. The train will go on a deserted road, going around the mountain and fields. The train moves at a relatively slow speed and with less shock, making you more comfortable, and less prone to motion sickness. Just take a rest on a peaceful night, buddies!

Day 4 & 5: Go Trekking in Sapa

Day 4: Start Trekking to Hilltribe Villages

Once you arrive, you will check in and can relax a bit before joining your Sapa trekking tour with the companionship of a local guide. Let's have an excellent day trekking in Sapa!

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Sapa Trekking

Take a trek through Sapa terraces (Credit: Mattie Lacey Davidson)

First, why don't you come to Y Linh Ho - a village with a captivating atmosphere? Visitors will be highly interested in the beauty of the locals in unique brocade costumes. Besides, the timbre of nature, especially the golden ripe terraced fields, are must-see views. You can also discover the cultural features of the traditional ethnic identity and walk on the trail along the smoldering stream. 

Destinations included in the itinerary are Y Linh Ho, a small village next to the Muong Hoa River; Lao Chai, a town of the Black Hmong people; and Ta Van, a village of the Zay people.

Y Linh Ho is located about 7 km southwest of Sapa town, alongside the Muong Hoa river. This place is created by dozens of small hamlets scattered on high and harsh mountainous terrain. This village was formed around the 19th century after different ethnic Dao and H'Mong families from the northern areas of Vietnam came to settle down. They had begun to grow maize and rice in the region and weave cloth to create handicrafts such as purses and plenty of textiles.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Y Linh Ho Ta Van Village

Y Linh Ho - Ta Van Village trekking route (Credit: Dizzy Traveler)

After leaving Ta Van Village, you will return to Sapa and be free to spend the rest of the day. A night to sleep in a rustic thatched house, chat with the ethnic minorities by the pink fire in the cold high mountains and welcome the dawn in the fresh morning air is super fantastic. Once getting along well with the lifestyle, you fall for a simple and peaceful space.

The villagers go to the fields and grow cardamom in the rainy season. Otherwise, when the crop is over, men go to the forest to collect firewood and raise buffaloes and horses, while others take their leisure time to sew traditional clothes.

Day 5: Get A Deeper Insight into The Locals

For more discoveries, it's time to jog in ethnic villages: Cat Cat and Sin Chai. Let's begin the 5th day of your three-week Vietnam itinerary by joining a trekking tour to the Southwest to visit Cat Cat Village. This place is located in the northwest of Vietnam, close to the border with China. Cat Cat is one of the ethnic minority villages nearest to Sapa town, only 2.5 km from the center. It is located at the end of Muong Hoa valley and is an excellent place for sightseeing, walking, and experiencing the life of the mountainous people.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Cat Cat Village

Cat Cat Village (Credit: Culture Trip)

It will be a lovely experience to relax at the foot of a beautiful waterfall and the remains of a hydroelectric power station built by the French during the colonial period of Vietnam. The colorful flower gardens surrounding the old walled house, next to the paved road, create a picturesque landmark of the Vietnamese Northwest area. Your lunch will take place by the riverside, giving you a unique experience as you are immersed in nature.

Then, your journey will continue with a visit to Sin Chai Village, located at the foot of Fansipan mountain, known as the "Roof of Indochina." Two days in Sapa will allow you to admire the natural scenery of hundreds of flowers blooming and villages hidden in the mist just like in the fairy tales. You can rent traditional costumes of the ethnic people, both keeping warm and highly photogenic when appearing on the check-in frame.

After the 2-day trekking, it's time to return to Hanoi and start a new journey!

Day 6 & 7: Enjoy Halong Bay Cruise

Day 6: Stay Overnight on Halong Cruise

Start exploring Ha Long Bay, which shouldn't be missed during your 3 weeks in Vietnam. Thanks to its picturesque beauty, Halong Bay is recognized by UNESCO as a natural wonder of the world. It's the presence of thousands of unspoiled islands and caves, mysteriously beautiful and rich ecosystems. Thus, Halong Bay has become an extremely unique destination that any tourist wants to visit. 

What about spending a day on a 5-star Halong cruise? It is a type of service to visit the bay, stay overnight, and perform activities in a package tour on the yacht. Your relaxing space will be encapsulated with amenities of rooms, restaurants, bars, catering services, and spa massage. Once you arrive, the crew staff will give you a warm welcome before checking in on the cruise. 

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Halong Bay Cruise

Enjoy high-class service on the Halong Bay cruise

Depending on the type of yacht, the services and facilities may be more diverse depending on the style. You can suppose the yacht as a high-class floating hotel with full luxury amenities. Overnight cruises are very popular with customers. Because it brings excellent experiences about the scenery and nature in the bay. The room system is designed with large glass windows to create conditions that are always filled with natural light and help you enjoy the beautiful scenery of Halong Bay.

Kayaking in Halong Bay should be a must-do activity on your list when visiting this place since it is the best way to explore all things that this bay offers. Sliding through the water in a nifty kayak will give you access to many unique places that your cruise cannot reach. Halong Bay has tons of great kayaking spots available. You will easily be captivated by the natural landscape here wherever you go. However, before starting your kayaking journey, you need to follow all instructions and recommendations of your guide for safety reasons.

After participating in exciting activities on this most beautiful bay in Vietnam, you will return to the boat to relax and enjoy dinner. Then you'll enjoy a fantastic night aboard a luxury cruise.

Let's find the best cruise at BestPrice Travel

Day 7: Discover the Hidden Gems of the Bay

For the second day in Halong Bay, we recommend waking up early to witness the incredible sunrise over this dreamy bay or taking a Tai-chi class. After breakfast, you will explore the caves in Ha Long Bay by boat.

You can fully enjoy the beauty of the majestic but poetic nature and explore the life and culture of the fishing village people. Another must-see Halong tourist destination for three weeks in Vietnam is one of the hidden beaches where you can enjoy swimming, taking pictures to check in, relaxing while watching the sunset, or organizing teambuilding.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Halong Bay Kayaking

Halong Bay kayaking (Credit: @timilas)

Your lunch will be served early on board. After that, the cruise will come back to the main dock, and you will be taken to the airport to catch your flight to Danang.

After you board the flight at Danang airport, our guide will pick you up and take you to a luxury hotel in Hoi An. After checking in, you will spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring this city freely.

Day 8, 9 & 10: Explore Hoi An Inside Out

Day 8: Join Tra Que Village Farming Experience

Once footing on Hoi An, please come to Tra Que Vegetable Village - a worth-trying choice where you can find Hoi An unique experiences. About the history of this village, it was formed more than 300 years ago. In the beginning, the villagers only made a living by fishing and growing rice to make a living. Later, they realized that they could use water hyacinth and weeds from the nearby river as fertilizer. So they switched from fishing and growing rice to growing vegetables with that in mind.

When you reach this famous village, you cannot believe what you can see. It is a village with many organic vegetable plots with everything looking very fresh, green, and very organized. The vegetables here are grown entirely with water hyacinth and weeds without herbicides, pesticides, or other harmful chemicals. Therefore, they are not only delicious but also very safe to consume.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Tra Que Village

Tra Que Vegetable Village

Here, you will have the opportunity to see and do things that you have never seen or done before. For example, you can help farmers prepare the land and fertilize it with seaweed. Besides, you can also participate in raking, sowing seeds, watering plants, picking vegetables, and countless other gardening activities.

In the afternoon of the same day, your cycling tour will take you to an artisan's home, who will briefly introduce the history, colors, shapes of lanterns, and how to make them. You even have the chance to make a lantern and keep it as a souvenir.

Day 9: Free Day to Discover the Ancient Town

The 9th day of your 3 weeks in Vietnam will be a free day to explore this ancient and charming town. If you do not know where to begin, it's best to join one of our recommended Hoi An tours as follows.

  • Hoi An Craft Villages

Thanh Ha Pottery Village is an ancient Hoi An craft village that has existed for over 500 years. Pottery village in Thanh Ha has an entirely handmade production process in peaceful beauty. When visiting the pottery village, you will see the skillful polishing techniques of talented artisans. This visit is also an opportunity for you to create your ceramic work. 

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Thanh Ha Pottery Village

Thanh Ha Pottery Village (Credit: Hidden Hoi An)

Kim Bong Carpentry Village only takes 10 minutes by boat from Hoi An Ancient Town to the village. As soon as you set foot on this land, you heard the sound of chisels and drills coming from the West banks. Those sounds have become an indispensable part of people's lives for many generations associated with the trees.

With an age of more than 400 years, Phuoc Kieu bronze casting village has been closely associated with the people of Hoi An town since ancient times. Generations of artisans in the town, despite having difficulties in the challenging economic times, still passed on the fire of their ancestors' craft. Artisans delicately and beautifully craft both daily life products and high-class fine art items.

Visiting the traditional craft villages in Hoi An Ancient Town can give you a new look at this peaceful land by the gentle Hoai River with its time-stamped streets. When you find out about the traditional craft villages, you have touched a part of the soul of the quiet, ancient Hoi An!

By joining this tour, you will receive a unique, exciting, and fun travel experience. You will have the adventure of learning about historical sites, culture, and peaceful and beautiful countryside scenery. In addition, you can also explore the idyllic rural life of Vietnamese people from a unique perspective.

The cuisine of Hoi An is another thing worth trying. The dishes are vibrant and diverse, but they all have their characteristics of the central coast. In Hoi An's specialty dishes, diverse ingredients are used from the mountains, the plains, and the sea. 

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Hoi An Street Food

Hoi An Street Food (Credit: CK Travels)

The taste of Banh Xeo will linger in diners' hearts for a long time. It has a delicious taste, filled with lean meat or fresh shrimp served with raw vegetables, but at a very affordable price. 

What about spring rolls-a familiar dish for everyone? Ingredients such as bacon, boiled shrimp, fresh vermicelli, and raw vegetables are wrapped in thin rice paper and dipped with peanut sauce to create a delicious feeling.

Day 10: Enjoy the Last Day in Hoi An

The 10th day of your Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks is when you move from Hoi An ancient town to Hue city by a shuttle bus. Our driver will pick you up at your hotel and take you through Hai Van Pass to Hue. 

Hai Van Pass has two other names: Deo Hai Van and Ai Van. This pass is a natural boundary between Da Nang and Hue City. It is about 21 km long, crossing the Bach Ma Mountain Range and winding across the towering mountains. This pass is considered one of the most impressive and beautiful coastal passes globally, and its highest peak is 496 m above sea level.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Hai Van Pass

Spectacular landscapes over Hai Van Pass (Credit: Where Goes Rose)

The beauty of this pass is indescribable. This pass lets you see the charming Bach Ma Mountain Range hidden in the mist. From the North of this pass, it is possible to admire Lang Co Bay with its great stretching white sand beach. From its South, you can see adorable Da Nang City from above. So, visiting this pass will bring you a memorable experience.

While you are on the go, the driver may stop at some points for you to visit and take some photos.

Day 11, 12 & 13: Fully Discover Hue City

Day 11: Go on a Hue City Tour

You will spend a day discovering the poetic beauty of Hue City. It is considered the cradle of Vietnamese culture and is also home to many national treasures, such as the complex of pagodas, tombs, temples, and monuments. Besides, Hue owns historical relics of high value located in the Complex of Hue Monuments.

Traveling to Hue is also admiring landscapes such as mountains, beaches, and lagoons. Royal court music is one of the unique cultural features of Hue. Every two years, the city organizes Hue Festival to attract a large number of tourists.

  • Thien Mu Pagoda

Your journey will begin with a visit to a famous Buddhist landmark - Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest Hue pagoda located on the banks of the charming Perfume River. Thien Mu Pagoda is situated in the middle of lovely countryside and is the inspiration for many works of poetry and music. The beauty of the temple is created from the synthesis of historical, cultural, spiritual, and artistic values. 

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Thien Mu Pagoda

Thien Mu Pagoda (Credit: Travelatearth)

If the One-pillar pagoda is the unique symbol of Hanoi City, the Thien Mu pagoda is the soul of Hue City. The unique location, fascinating history, and eye-catching architecture have made this pagoda one of the must-visit attractions in Hue. When visiting here, most visitors will pay their first attention to Phuoc Duyen Tower (or Tu Nhan Tower), a seven-story octagonal tower. King Thieu Tri built this tower in the mid-19th century to commemorate the 80th birthday anniversary of his grandmother.

This prestigious sightseeing will allow you to enjoy the perfect scenery landscape and the typical traditional architecture that you can only find in Hue pagodas. Also, this religious site is covered with bonsai, pine trees, and a delicate artificial pond, which can give you a peaceful feeling.

When you come here, all you need is respect. So, it's wise to avoid making noise when staying here. Beyond that, we recommend not wearing short and tight clothes, such as short skirts, as those wearing these costumes will not be allowed to enter the main hall (Dai Hung).

  • Hue Imperial Citadel

The next place in your Hue City Tours is the Imperial Citadel, the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, the last dynasty in Vietnamese history, which put an end to the feudal system of this country. Visiting the Imperial City will highlight your time in Hue city, and you will get a lot more out of it with our guided tour. Coming here, visitors admire the dreamy and ancient landscapes and have the opportunity to learn about the history and architecture where the power was once resounding.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Hue Imperial

Hue Imperial

This famous place is one of Vietnam's seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it a must-see attraction for visitors. In 1803, this architecture was planned to be built by Gia Long – The first king of the Nguyen Dynasty. For 27 years, from 1805 to 1832, the Imperial Citadel was completed during the reign of Minh Mang King. Building this grandeur architecture involves thousands of workers, and millions of cubic meters of rock, making it the most massive structure being built in the history of modern Vietnam.

Day 12: Uncover the Historical Hue - DMZ

What a miss if you don't visit historical sites in the former capital during your three weeks in Vietnam! Let's engage in an excursion of Hue - DMZ Full-day Tour

Located in the Hue surroundings, this place was the Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone used as a separating line between the North and the South in the Vietnam War. You can visit the ancient battlefields named Khe Sanh and the fantastic tunnels of Vinh Moc. Beyond the mountain sightseeing, you will get a glimpse of the glorious Vietnamese history and Vietnamese struggles for independence. From the military strategies to the real life of soldiers and villagers during the war. 

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Hue DMZ

Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone DMZ

Day 13: Experience Hue Like A Local

Begin your last morning in Hue by visiting Dong Ba Market, one of the largest and oldest trading markets in Hue city. Tourists who go on a one-day tour of Hue or young people who go on their own almost always take advantage of the short time to visit the market. With a long history and known as a specialty of Hue, surely anyone passing through this land cannot help but stop just to enjoy the famous mussel vermicelli. You will have the opportunity to observe the daily life of the locals, and do not forget to buy some unique souvenirs here.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Dong Ba Market

Dong Ba Market

End of the three days in Hue, you will transfer to Phu Bai Airport to take a flight to Ho Chi Minh City! It's not the end of the Vietnam itinerary in 3 weeks!

Day 14: Visit all must-sees in Saigon

Welcome to Saigon! Your first day on Ho Chi Minh City Tour will take place in the afternoon, taking you to the city's must-see sights.

  • War Remnants Museum

The first place on the list is the War Remnants Museum, one of the attractive destinations in Saigon, especially for foreign tourists. Many Americans have come there to understand more about the brutal war in human history. Since its opening, the museum has welcomed over 15 million visitors.

War Remnants Museum was established after the country's unification (April 30, 1975) to save the heroic vestiges of the Vietnamese people and denounce the crimes of colonialism and imperialism. It is considered a stark reminder of the tragic and brutal war in Vietnam. 

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks War Remnants Museum

War Remnants Museum

Coming to this place, you will learn more deeply about the atrocities committed by the Western army and the devastating consequences of the war that the Vietnamese people have to endure. This museum is one of the few museums in Vietnam that still preserves the most significant number of artifacts. Specifically, this place is home to more than 20,000 artifacts, including exhibits, documents, and films, divided into outdoor and indoor exhibitions.

In addition to organizing regular exhibitions, various diverse activities are also held with many different themes, such as cuisine, culture, and more. So if you are lucky, you will have the chance to join the cultural program with the theme of love in the war or enjoy dishes in wartime, such as warmly wrapped rice, cassava, earth cakes/Banh Tet), and sesame.

  • Reunification Palace

The Independence Palace, or Reunification Palace, is an important historical site that has witnessed countless significant changes in the city's history. In addition, it also carries in itself the unique quintessence of Eastern culture.

In 1868, the French government started the design and construction of this fantastic work of architecture in the city center to serve as the residence for the Governor of Cochinchina. Once completed, it was named Norodom Palace. In 1945, the Japanese fascists beat the French colonialists to monopolize Indochina, and Norodom Palace became the workplace of the Japanese government in Vietnam.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Reunification Palace

Reunification Palace

On September 7, 1954, Ngo Dinh Diem, Prime Minister of the Republic of Vietnam, decided to change the name of this place to Independence Palace. Finally, during the Ho Chi Minh campaign in 1975, the liberation army achieved victory and unified the North and South of Vietnam, ending the Vietnam War.

While visiting this place, our guide will tell you the historical stories behind the Independence Palace in more detail.

  • Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral

If you ask any local people about the symbol of Saigon city, the answer you get will undoubtedly be Notre Dame Cathedral or Ben Thanh Market. Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the must-visit attractions for any tourist visiting Saigon because of its importance and prominent presence.

In 1962, this place received the Basilica title and became one of the four Basilicas in this country thanks to its essential role in the Vietnamese Catholic community.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral

Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral

Its design even goes far beyond creating a religious look. Specifically, it also aims to show the significant influence of French civilization and Christianity over this city. All the materials used in the construction of this church were imported directly from France, such as the red bricks utilized to build the outer wall, which still retains its vivid red color to this day.

  • Saigon Old Post Office 

The Old Post Office is considered one of the most beautiful remnants of this city left from the French colonial period. This must-see attraction is even considered the most magnificent post office in Southeast Asia, allowing it to attract countless visitors each year.

This charming post office was designed by Gustave Eiffel, a famous French architect who also designed the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel Tower. In 1891, this post office was officially completed and put into use. Located in the heart of the city, this site has witnessed countless historical events in Saigon.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Saigon Old Post Office 

Saigon Old Post Office 

This famous building has exquisite and unique architecture. Today, it is not only a place of correspondence and communication, but it is also a must-see attraction for any tourist when visiting this magnificent city.

The structure of this post office is a perfect combination of Asian and Western building styles, which you can clearly see as soon as you enter its main entrance. Its dome-shaped design will give you a feeling of spaciousness and nostalgia. The Old Post Office still maintains old phone booths, mailboxes, and souvenirs such as old letters and stamps.

  • Ben Thanh Market

In the afternoon, you can spend time moving to Ben Thanh Market, one of the famous symbols of Saigon. Initially, the market was created to become an informal gathering place for street vendors near the Saigon River. After 1859, when the French colonialists captured the Gia Dinh citadel, the Ben Thanh market was officially established. This market burned down in 1870. Later, it was rebuilt and is still the largest market in Saigon. In 1912, the market was transferred to a new building. Thus, this market has witnessed many important historical events in the city, including various ups and downs.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market

The markets usually open from 4 am to 7 pm, but to see the most bustling scene of stalls, visitors should come when most people start going to school or work. When you come here, you will be able to observe the daily life of the locals and purchase cheap but unique souvenirs.

After visiting all the city's highlights, you will be dropped off at your hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the city freely.

Day 15: Unique Experience in Cu Chi Tunnels

When mentioning Ho Chi Minh City, people will think of the most bustling and modern city in Vietnam. However, it also contains a lot of historical value related to the wars against the French colonialists and the American army. So if you want to understand more about Vietnamese history and the struggle of the Vietnamese army and people, visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is your best bet.

Cu Chi Tunnels is located about 60 km northeast of the city center. This place is part of a vast tunnel system that extends up to the Cambodian border. This tunnel system was built in 1948 and was completed in 25 years during the war against the French. This wondrous tunnel system was used to communicate between villages and as an effective hiding place for the Vietnamese.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Cu Chi Tunnels

Cu Chi Tunnels

When visiting this historic site, you will witness the unique structure and architecture of the tunnels. Our guide will also help you understand why it is so crucial in Vietnamese history through fascinating historical stories.

As ridiculous as it may sound, schools, theaters, hospitals, and kitchens were built in this incredible tunnel system. It also includes different exits to the Saigon River, booby traps, and counterfeit bunkers. In addition, every entrance to the tunnels is cleverly camouflaged. So, it is not surprising that the US military failed to defeat this tunnel system despite great efforts.

If the Cu Chi tunnels had fallen, the Vietnamese army would never have won the war, but they would win if the tunnel stood. And history has proven that this notion is correct. So, Cu Chi Tunnels, no doubt, played a considerable role in the victory of the Vietnamese in their war of independence.

Day 16 & 17: It's Time for the Mekong Delta

Your Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks will continue with a visit to the vast and exciting Mekong Delta, which is located about 100 km southwest of Ho Chi Minh City. The Mekong Delta is associated with river tourism products, gardens, nature, and rustic cuisine. When traveling to the garden, you will visit large fruit gardens, and listen to people share about how to grow and harvest fruit. In addition, you can also participate as a farmer with the people to harvest fruit and pack goods for sale. In particular, you can buy fruit right in the garden at a very cheap price.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta boat tour

An adventurous journey to the Mekong Delta would be the ideal choice for those who love the feeling of nature and desire to discover the Southwest culture known for its friendliness and generosity. It is true to say that the people of the Mekong Delta are very hospitable and friendly. Thus, don't be surprised when someone here invites you to taste their fruit for free.

Traveling to the western provinces, where is the most beautiful spot? The answer is the floating market in Can Tho, a busy trading place with bold cultural characteristics of the Southwest region. You can shop, enjoy delicious food and especially take beautiful check-in photos. Can Tho is also famous for its gentle river beauty, verdant orchards, and generous and hospitable atmosphere of the western people. Can Tho travel itinerary explores the land known as the Western capital with a cool fresh climate, bold Southern landscape, immense fields, interlaced canals, ancient houses, and many rustic delicacies?

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Floating Market

Mekong Delta Floating Market (Credit: Michael Yamashita)

After your Mekong Delta tour, let's head to Phan Thiet to enjoy a beach vacation!

Day 18: Travel to Phan Thiet

As belonging to two regions of Vietnam, Phan Thiet is one of the most beautiful beach destinations in Vietnam. The distance from Saigon to Phan Thiet is an approximate length of 210 km and can fluctuate depending on the locations where you go. It will take you about 4 - 5 hours to travel by limousine bus, depending on the density and weather conditions!

Phan Thiet is a beautiful coastal city in Binh Thuan - province in central Vietnam. Phan Thiet is famous for its clear beaches, white sand dunes, dreamy lakes, and peaceful fishing villages. The beauty of Phan Thiet attracts a lot of attention and is the favorite of tourists.

Day 19 & 20: Beach Relaxation in Phan Thiet

Mui Ne - Phan Thiet has long become a favorite destination of tourists. Thanks to possessing a clear blue beach, white sand dunes, and a harmonious combination of natural scenery with recreation facilities and quality services, Mui Ne has become one of 21 key tourist destinations in the country. 

The most outstanding feature here is the super clean beach. The straight, soaring coconut trees contribute to the verdant landscape and fresh atmosphere. The most special feature of this place is its rare wild appearance. Most of the area at Phan Thiet has not been exploited to build tourism services, so you still have the opportunity to admire the rustic beauty of the scenery. Mui Ne is also considered the place to watch the most beautiful sunrise and sunset in Mui Ne. In addition, you can also try camping overnight here!

Right next to Hon Rom is Suoi Tien - a check-in place in Mui Ne not to be missed. Suoi Tien is actually a small stream of water flowing into the sea. What makes this place famous is the brilliant orange-red sand stalactite wall that has been eroded by wind and rain, creating an extraordinary shape.

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks Phan Thiet Beach

Phan Thiet Beach

White sand dunes are a rare specialty that is hard to find. You can see 18 colors of sand, such as red, white, pink, white-gray, white, black, and red-black. And at each time of day, the wind will make the shape of these dunes change continuously. You can spend the first time of the day waking up very early, walking up the dunes, and catching the sunrise. After that, you can also participate in a sandboarding or off-road motorcycle ride.

If you depart from Ho Chi Minh City, you will meet the Ke Ga lighthouse first. A French architect designed this 100-year-old lighthouse, and all construction materials were imported from France. After all this time, the lighthouse is still standing, emitting light to guide ships moving in the sea at night.

To visit the Ke Ga lighthouse, you need to rent a canoe to the island, then climb more than 180 steps to reach the lighthouse. From above, you can zoom in to see the beautiful sea. From the lighthouse, you can explore more grasslands on the right side of the island. The green lawn with a direct view of the lighthouse creates a beautiful background for you to check-in!

If you love to exercise, like walking or trekking, Ta Cu mountain, with an altitude of about 650 m above sea level, is very suitable! Along the route leading to Ta Cu mountain are beautiful flowering plants, the most prominent being the mausoleum. The highlight of the trekking trip is the giant statue of Buddha entering nirvana with the posture lying on the top of the mountain.

Day 21: Goodbye, Vietnam!

Vietnam itinerary three weeks have already been done! It's time to back to Saigon and take a flight home. See you again, buddies! 

Are you a travel enthusiast and want to make a trip across Vietnam from the North to the South but don't have much time? Going on Vietnam tour packages of BestPrice Travel is an ideal choice to help you realize your dream. Our 3-week journey through Vietnam will take you to picturesque lands. 

Hopefully, by sharing the complete and detailed cross - Vietnam travel itinerary above, BestPrice Travel can provide you with the most helpful information for your trip.

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