Vietnam at a Glance!

A lot of Indians search for Vietnam family trip itinerary ideas, given the country's affordability and popularity in the last two years. Notably, India has emerged as one of the top 10 Asian markets, sending the most tourists to Vietnam. In December 2024 alone, Vietnam welcomed over 500,000 Indian visitors.
Categories |
Specifications |
Distance from India |
3,093.41 km |
How to Reach Vietnam |
Direct flights from major cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore) to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang. |
New Delhi to Ho Chi Minh City Flight Duration |
5 to 5.5 hours |
Best Time to Visit Vietnam |
March to April |
International Airport |
Noi Bai International Airport |
Before starting on your Vietnam travel itinerary, make sure to secure travel insurance covering medical needs, flight delays, and lost luggage. This ensures that you can enjoy your Vietnam adventure worry-free.
5 Days Vietnam Itinerary for First-time Visitors
Indians can easily apply for a Vietnam e-visa online for short-term visits of up to 90 days, which makes planning a Vietnam trip itinerary so simple. Arranging a Vietnam visa requires a small service fee if opting for the e-visa.
Once your visa is sorted, pack essentials like sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and light clothing to make the most of your 5 days in Vietnam and the diverse experiences awaiting you.
Let's begin the journey in Vietnam's capital, Hanoi!
-
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Start your 5 days itinerary for Vietnam in Hanoi, the capital city famous for its ancient architecture and vibrant street scenes.
Morning: Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) and transfer to your hotel. After settling in, start your day at Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, where locals gather for morning walks and tea.
Afternoon: Explore the lively Old Quarter, where narrow streets teem with food vendors, local shops, and more. For a quiet break, stop by the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university.
Evening: Catch a traditional Water Puppet Show, a performance that narrates Vietnamese legends and folklore through puppetry.
-
Day 2: Go on a Ha Long Bay Cruise
Ha Long Bay is one of
Vietnam's most well-known natural attractions, known for its emerald waters and unique limestone islands.
Morning: Travel from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, a 4-hour drive, and board a traditional boat to sail through the bay's famous islands.
Afternoon: Visit Ti Top Island for lovely views and take a swim in its clear waters. Also, explore the Sung Sot Cave, one of Ha Long Bay's largest and most famous caves.
Evening: Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner aboard your boat as you watch the sunset.
-
Day 3: Hoi An - Immerse in Vietnamese History and Culture
Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its well-preserved ancient town and lantern-lit streets.
Morning: Fly from Hanoi to Da Nang, and then transfer to Hoi An (about 45 minutes). Begin with a visit to the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, an iconic city symbol.
Afternoon: Wander through Hoi An Ancient Town, where you can explore old houses, temples, and enjoy a cup of local coffee by the river.
Evening: If you happen to visit during the full moon, enjoy the Hoi An Lantern Festival, a magical experience where thousands of lanterns light up the streets and rivers.
-
Day 4: Hue - Discover Vietnam's Imperial History
Your 5 days Vietnam travel itinerary continues with a visit to Hue, the former imperial capital.
Morning: Journey to Hue, around a 3-hour drive from Hoi An. Start by exploring the Imperial City, a sprawling complex of palaces, temples, and courtyards.
Afternoon: Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic site perched along the Perfume River, known for its seven-story structure.
Evening: Take a cruise along the Perfume River to round off your day with a relaxing sunset experience.
-
Day 5: Da Nang - Coastal Relaxation
Finish your journey in Da Nang, known for its beautiful beaches and scenic spots.
Morning: If you're keen on adventure, climb the Marble Mountains, a group of five hills that are home to caves. Conclude your best Vietnam itinerary with a beachfront dinner, reflecting on the beautiful journey.
Afternoon: Head to My Khe Beach to relax and enjoy some downtime by the water.
Evening: Conclude your trip with a beachfront meal in Da Nang, reflecting on your experiences in Vietnam.
Places to Visit |
Opening Hours |
Ngoc Son Temple |
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM |
Temple of Literature |
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM |
Imperial City |
8:00 AM - 5:30 PM |
Budget Estimate for 5 Days in Vietnam
Have a look at the rough estimate of your Vietnam itinerary 5 days budget, covering mid-range accommodation, transport, meals, and activities.
Expense |
Approx. Cost |
Visa Expenses |
INR 2,000-4,000 |
Flight Expenses (Round-trip) |
INR 16,803 - 40,000 |
Hotel/Accommodation Expenses |
INR 1500- 4800, per night |
Domestic Flights Expenses |
INR 1500 - 4000 |
Local Transportation Expenses (Trains, Ferries, Taxi, Buses, etc.) |
INR 1450 - 5,000 |
Travel Insurance for Vietnam (5 Days) |
Starting INR 415Â |
Food |
INR 1400 - 3,000/day |
Souvenirs |
INR 1000 - 2000, depending upon the product |
Any Additional expenses (travel pass, mobile sim, wifi, etc.) |
INR 2,000 - 3,000 |
A Vietnam 5 day trip cost from India will cost anywhere from 35,000 to 1.2 lakh per person, depending on your activities and expenditure.
Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Vietnam's climate may be tropical, but it varies by region. Here is how you should pick the best time for your Vietnam trip from India:
- North Vietnam: If you're travelling to Sapa or Hanoi, visiting during October - April offers a cool and dry weather.
- Central Vietnam: If you're travelling to Hoi An or Hue, visiting during February - April offers a dry and pleasant weather.
- South Vietnam: If you're travelling only to Ho Chi Minh City, visiting during December - April is a dry time perfect for sightseeing.
If you have a very limited budget, then you can visit during the monsoon months from June to September. However, you won't be able to plan cruises or beach visits.Â
Vietnam Itinerary: Top Recommendations
Vietnam is a country rich in history and culture, offering an exciting range of experiences. Here are some key places you shouldn't miss:
- Ha Long Bay: This famous bay is dotted with limestone islands rising out of calm waters. You can take a boat trip to enjoy the surroundings, and for those who want a bit more adventure, kayaking or visiting local villages is also an option.
- Hanoi: The Old Quarter is excellent for walking around, trying street food or visiting small shops. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, both key historical sites.
- Hoi An: Hoi An is known for its historic charm, with old buildings and lantern-lined streets. In the evening, the lanterns create a special atmosphere along the river.
- Hue: Hue is known for its important role in Vietnam's royal history. The Imperial City is a must-see, offering a look into the country's past through its ancient structures. The nearby royal tombs also reflect the country's unique cultural heritage.
- Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: The park is home to some of the world's largest caves, including Son Doong. Visitors can hike, swim, or take a boat through the caves, and the surrounding jungle makes for a truly immersive nature experience.
- Ho Chi Minh City: Vietnam's largest city is lively and full of energy. Visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the country's history, or visit local markets like Ben Thanh.
Tips for Planning Your Vietnam Itinerary
Spending 5 days in Vietnam can be an exciting adventure, but it comes with challenges. From local customs to practical concerns, here are some tips that can help you figure out any issues and ensure a smooth journey:
- Be Ready for Cash-Only Places: While major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City widely accept credit cards, many local markets, small shops, and rural areas only accept cash.
- Use Local SIM Cards or eSIM for Connectivity: Staying connected while travelling is essential, and getting a local SIM card upon arrival is often the most affordable option.
- Download Offline Maps: Before you head out to rural areas or towns with limited internet, download offline maps using apps like Google Maps or Maps.me.
- Check for Reliable Transport Options: When booking transport, especially buses and trains, use trusted and reliable providers. Apps like 12Go Asia can help you book and compare transport options in advance.