2-week Vietnam tours: Explore North to South highlights

Embarking on a 2-week Vietnam tour is the perfect way to experience the country’s remarkable diversity. From the misty peaks of the northern highlands to the buzzing cities and sun-kissed beaches in the south, Vietnam offers a dynamic blend of landscapes, flavors and cultural treasures that unfold with every stop.

In this article, you'll discover a complete 2 week Vietnam travel itinerary, top destinations from north to south, local experiences worth trying and essential travel tips to make the most of your journey. Start planning your unforgettable 2 week itinerary in Vietnam with this complete and practical guide.

Exploring Vietnam at the perfect pace: Two weeks

A two-week Vietnam tour offers just the right amount of time to explore the country's rich tapestry of landscapes, culture and history. You won’t feel rushed as you journey from the misty mountains of the north to the sunny beaches of the south. This timeframe allows you to appreciate the diversity of Vietnam—from ancient temples and imperial citadels to vibrant markets and serene rice fields. You’ll have space in your schedule for must-see landmarks while still enjoying moments of authentic, unhurried travel.

For first-time visitors, two weeks is an ideal introduction to the country’s geographic and cultural flow. It also suits returning travelers looking to go deeper into specific regions or explore at a slower pace. Families can enjoy varied experiences together, couples can savor romantic getaways and solo travelers have time to connect with locals and fellow explorers. Following a logical north-to-south (or south-to-north) route helps maximize your experience. 

Ready to map out your journey? Here’s your guide to the must-see destinations in Vietnam over 2 unforgettable weeks.

Must-see destinations across Vietnam in 2 weeks

With 2-week Vietnam tours, you’ll have the perfect window to explore the country’s most captivating destinations. This itinerary lets you experience Vietnam’s diverse landscapes, rich culture and vibrant cities—seamlessly blending heritage, nature and modern life. From misty mountains in the north to riverine serenity in the south, here’s what not to miss on your two-week journey:

Hanoi – Timeless capital charm 

Begin your adventure in Vietnam’s thousand-year-old capital, where centuries of history meet everyday vibrance. Wander through the narrow alleys of the Old Quarter, sip egg coffee by Hoan Kiem Lake and marvel at the mix of French colonial architecture and Buddhist pagodas. Don’t miss a water puppet show for a taste of traditional performance art, or a morning stroll around West Lake to watch the city wake up.

Sapa – Ethnic culture and terraced landscapes 

Located in the northern highlands, Sapa is a dream for trekkers and nature lovers. Explore scenic trails leading through cascading rice terraces and visit ethnic minority villages like Lao Chai and Ta Van. The cooler climate and misty mountain views offer a refreshing contrast to the cities.

Halong Bay – Natural world wonder 

No trip to Vietnam is complete without a cruise through Halong Bay. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for its surreal seascape of limestone karsts and emerald waters. Enjoy a night on a luxury cruise, go kayaking into hidden lagoons, explore Sung Sot Cave and savor fresh seafood under the stars. The bay’s serene beauty is a photographer’s dream and a soul-soothing escape from the bustle.

Ninh Binh – Vietnam’s “inland Halong Bay” 

Known for its dramatic limestone formations and peaceful countryside, Ninh Binh is a tranquil escape. Take a sampan boat ride through the winding rivers of Trang An or Tam Coc, surrounded by karsts and rice fields. Don’t miss the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and panoramic views from Hang Mua Peak.

Hue – Royal legacy of the Nguyen dynasty 

Step back in time in the imperial city of Hue, once the capital of the Nguyen emperors. Visit the imposing Imperial Citadel, cruise along the Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda and admire the intricate tombs of ancient kings. The city’s slow pace, poetic ambiance and culinary delights like bun bo Hue make it a culturally rich stop on your journey.

Hoi An – Heritage and lantern-lit beauty 

Hoi An is a UNESCO-listed town that feels like a fairytale. Stroll through its well-preserved Ancient Town with mustard-yellow buildings, wooden shopfronts and colorful lanterns overhead. Try your hand at a cooking class, have custom garments tailored and explore the countryside by bike. Come evening, the riverside glows with floating lanterns and lively markets, especially during the monthly full moon lantern festival.

Da Nang – Coastal cool meets modern life 

Just a short drive from Hoi An, Da Nang combines city convenience with scenic beauty. Relax on the soft sands of My Khe Beach or ride the world’s longest cable car to Ba Na Hills, where the iconic Golden Bridge is held up by massive stone hands. Da Nang’s modern vibe, tasty street food and accessible airport make it a popular and practical stop.

Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam’s economic heartbeat 

Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City pulses with energy. Skyscrapers tower over colonial-era buildings and bustling street markets. Visit landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office and Ben Thanh Market. Dive deeper into Vietnam’s modern history at the War Remnants Museum or crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels for a sobering look at wartime resilience.

Mekong Delta – River life and floating markets 

End your journey in the fertile Mekong Delta, where daily life revolves around water. Take a sampan ride through narrow canals, visit floating markets like Cai Rang and stay in a local homestay to experience the warmth of rural hospitality. From coconut candy workshops to lush fruit orchards, this peaceful region offers a gentle and authentic glimpse of Vietnam’s heartland.

Best ways to travel across Vietnam

Vietnam is a long and narrow country, stretching over 1,600 kilometers from north to south. With such geographic diversity, choosing the right mode of transportation can make a big difference in both your comfort and travel time. Here are the most efficient and enjoyable ways to explore Vietnam:

• Flights: The fastest way to travel between major cities like Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City. Affordable domestic airlines (Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, Bamboo Airways) offer frequent flights. Ideal for long distances.

• Trains: The Reunification Express runs from north to south, with scenic views—especially between Hue and Da Nang. Overnight sleeper trains are great for saving on both travel time and hotel costs.

• Private cars & tourist buses: Convenient for regional routes like Hue to Hoi An or trips around the Mekong Delta. Offers flexibility, comfort and sometimes English-speaking drivers.

• Motorbikes & bicycles: Perfect for short distances and countryside exploration (Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, Hoi An). Offers freedom and a more local experience, but requires confidence in traffic.

• Ride-hailing & booking apps: Apps like Grab (for car or bike rides) and 12Go Asia (for trains, buses, flights) make planning easy. They help compare prices, read reviews and avoid language barriers.

Learn more: Transportation in Vietnam: Best options for getting around

Recommended stays for a 2-week Vietnam itinerary

Choosing the right place to stay can elevate your Vietnam journey—whether you're craving peaceful riverside views or a hotel nestled in the heart of a vibrant city. Each destination in your 2-week itinerary offers a range of accommodation options to suit your travel style, from cultural immersion to coastal relaxation.

Here’s a quick guide to the best areas to stay in each region to make the most of your trip:

Hanoi Movenpick Hotel Hanoi Centre A stylish 5-star hotel with French-inspired charm, ideally located in the heart of Hanoi for sightseeing and shopping.	Sapa Hotel de la Coupole A stunning blend of Indochine elegance and haute couture design, nestled in the misty mountains of Sapa.	Halong Bay The Bhaya Legend Private Charter A private cruise offering personalized journeys through the stunning waters of Halong Bay.
Ninh Binh Nham Village Resort A peaceful countryside retreat surrounded by limestone mountains and lush rice paddies.	Hue Vedana Lagoon Resort & Spa A luxurious resort set on the serene Tam Giang Lagoon, where nature meets refined wellness.	Hoi An Almanity Hoi An A wellness-focused resort that captures the essence of Hoi An’s heritage with a peaceful and holistic atmosphere.
Da Nang Pullman Danang beach resort A 5-star beachfront resort on My Khe Beach, perfect for a stylish and relaxing seaside escape.	Ho Chi Minh Fusion Original Saigon Centre A creative, design-forward hotel located in the heart of Saigon, offering upscale comfort and convenience.	Mekong Delta Azerai Can Tho A tranquil luxury retreat nestled on a private islet in the Mekong Delta, surrounded by tropical greenery and waterways.

Suggested 2-week Vietnam travel itinerary

This carefully designed 2-week Vietnam itinerary brings together a harmonious blend of culture, nature and local life. From the old-world charm of Hanoi to the rural serenity of Pu Luong, the limestone wonders of Ninh Binh and the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, each stop offers a new layer of Vietnam’s diverse character.

More details in: Vietnam tour 15 days with Pu Luong

For those of you planning a trip to Vietnam, Hanoi Voyages has created detailed itineraries based on your available travel time. These are examples of Vietnam tours — feel free to take inspiration and we will customize your trip together:

Splendors of Vietnam from North to South tour 15 days  Explore Vietnam’s iconic sites, diverse cultures and scenic landscapes from Hanoi to the Mekong Delta.	Northern and Central Vietnam tour 14 Days Explore all UNESCO sites, discover stunning heritage sites and impressive landscapes.	Vietnam Luxury tour from Northern to Southern in 15 days An elegant journey through Vietnam’s top destinations, with premium stays and curated cultural experiences.

Hanoi Voyages offer both curated itineraries and fully personalized tours to match your interests. Reach out to us for a free quote!

Practical tips for your 2-week Vietnam tour

Planning a 2-week Vietnam itinerary? With the country’s wide range of climates, cultures and landscapes, being well-prepared will help you make the most of every stop—from the rice fields of Pu Luong to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An. These practical tips cover weather, budget and essential tools to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Pack for different climates: Vietnam’s weather varies greatly by region and season. Northern mountains like Sapa or Pu Luong can get chilly, while the south remains hot year-round. Bring breathable clothing, a light jacket and rain protection just in case.

• Pick the right time to visit: Spring (March–April) and autumn (October–November) offer the best weather across most of the country. You’ll enjoy cooler temperatures, lower humidity and beautiful landscapes. Try to avoid the summer months if you dislike heat or heavy rain.

• Use helpful travel tools: Install useful apps like Google Translate, Maps.me for offline navigation and a currency converter. Apps such as Grab (for taxis and food) or 12Go (for booking transport) make your travel much smoother and stress-free.

• Learn a few Vietnamese phrases: Simple words like “Xin chào” (hello) and “Cảm ơn” (thank you) can go a long way. Locals truly appreciate the effort and it often leads to warmer interactions and more memorable moments throughout your journey.

A 2-week Vietnam itinerary offers the perfect balance between iconic highlights and off-the-beaten-path discoveries—from peaceful rice valleys in the north to imperial landmarks and sun-drenched coastal towns in the center. With thoughtful planning, you can experience the country’s rich history, delicious cuisine and diverse landscapes at a comfortable pace.

Want a personalized way to travel Vietnam in 2 weeks? Let Hanoi Voyages help you craft a tailor-made itinerary, combining expert guidance with flexibility—so you enjoy Vietnam your way, stress-free. Reach out today for a free consultation.