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The Ultimate 3 weeks in Vietnam Itinerary, A Complete Guide To This Amazing Country! [UPDATED FOR 2024]

Nic (The Roaming Renegades) - Last updated on January 15th, 2024 at 4:08 pm

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3 weeks in Vietnam. Is It Enough Time?

Chapters

  1. 3 weeks in Vietnam. Is It Enough Time?
  2. When Should You Visit Vietnam?
  3. Transportation Options in Vietnam For Your 3 weeks in Vietnam Itinerary
  4. Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks: Bike Hire/ Motorbike Travel
  5. 3 weeks in Vietnam: Minibus/ Vans and Private Transfers:
  6. 3-Week Itinerary Vietnam: Suggested Route: 
  7. Vietnam in 3 weeks: A Breakdown
  8. Week 1: South and South Central Vietnam
  9. Where To Stay In Saigon/ HCMC
  10. Where To Stay In Da Lat
  11. Where To Stay In Quy Nhon
  12. Vietnam 3-week Itinerary: Week 2: Northern Central Vietnam
  13. Where To Stay In Hoi An
  14. Where To Stay In Hue:
  15. 3-week Vietnam Itinerary: Week 3: Northern Vietnam
  16. Where To Stay In Ninh Binh:
  17. Where To Stay In Hanoi:
  18. 3-week Vietnam Itinerary: Final Thoughts
  19. 3 Weeks in Vietnam Itinerary: Related Content

3 weeks in Vietnam. Is It Enough Time?

Well, in a word… No! A 3 week Vietnam itinerary leaves much to see!

But don’t let that dishearten you, how long is enough time in Vietnam? Honestly, how long is a piece of string? After 10 weeks and counting, we have still much more to see and for those who are willing to go totally off the beaten track and out into the wild lands along the border regions, it can be one of the most fulfilling, enlightening and adventurous places to explore in the world.

But of course, that’s not for everyone and there are certainly elements of the wilder side of Vietnam that can be seen in a shorter trip alongside some of the big hitters such as Hoi An, Ha Long Bay, Ha Noi, Da Lat and the coastal regions. 3 weeks in Vietnam allows you to really get a sense of the different sides to the country and explore the North, Central and Southern regions.

Having seen quite a bit of the country having travelled from Saigon to Ha Noi back in 2017 and now completing the trip again whilst adding in new destinations we feel this itinerary is perfect for those wanting to see the “main sight” but also includes some additional adventures along the way so you don’t miss out on what we consider to be the “real Vietnam!”

Vietnamese lady on a boat in Hoi An, 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
3 weeks Vietnam: Gives you plenty of time to see the main sights of the country

When Should You Visit Vietnam?

Unlike much of the rest of Southeast Asia Vietnam has different climate zones with the south generally staying with the rest of the region experiencing a wet and dry season whilst being hot year round and the north of the country having a more traditional 4 seasons. When planning out your Vietnam Backpacking Itinerary you should bear these in mind.

This means it can be in the high 30s (c) and humid down in Saigon and snowing up in Sapa! So planning a 3 week Vietnam itinerary can be tricky.

So when is the best time to come? Well, that depends on what your priority is and where you want to spend the most amount of time. With Vietnam, it’s best to expect any and all weather at any time!

The north can be bitter and cold in the Northern Hemisphere winter months but it is usually dryer, though we’ve experienced our fair share of rain in that time too. Summer is generally hotter and wetter. Also bear in mind that Hanoi also has a different climate to places like Sapa which is generally cooler due to its altitude and is wetter in the summer too.

Clouds over the mountains near Dalat, 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
Itinerary Vietnam 3 weeks: Foggy mountain scenes on the way to Dalat

The south of the country experiences a wet season over the Northern Hemisphere summer months and a dry season over the winter. It’s hot all year round but the summer is much more sticky and humid. Places like Da Lat are much more temperate all year round though they will be rainier in the summer!

So, there’s no real perfect time to come if you’re seeing the whole country but we suggest the Spring or Autumn months to get the best of both worlds. Between March and May or from September to November you should hopefully miss the downpours and humidity of the south and the bitter cold of the north.


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Transportation Options in Vietnam For Your 3 weeks in Vietnam Itinerary

Getting around Vietnam at times can be a real hassle. Each journey might only be a few hundred km but the truth is the roads are wild and dangerous and the buses are some of the worst culprits for outrageous driving. The sleeper buses are some of the most common options but can be some of the most hair-raising. Depending on where you are headed there may be other options such as the train, air travel, a short bike hire or a minibus… or you might just have to brave the sleepers too, unfortunately!

We recommend booking online with 12Go as a reliable and secure way to reserve your seats especially if you are on a tight and well-planned schedule like a 3-week Vietnam itinerary.

The BEST Way To Book Your Transport!

12go Transport Online Booking

12Go is the best place to book your flights, trains, buses, ferries, coaches and more online.

At The Roaming Renegades we love 12Go and trust them for all our bookings.

Buses:

Buses are the main form of transport all across Vietnam and are the cheapest and most widely available. Routes fan out across pretty much the entire network of roads, cities and towns across the nation. You can get almost anywhere on the buses and they are affordable too. For your 3 weeks Vietnam itinerary you will likely need to use them!

The main issue is safety, especially with the sleeper buses and particularly at night time. If you can get on a regular seated coach then do and also avoid travelling at night on any of the roads if you can but especially highway 1 which is insane!

Sleeper bus in Vietnam, 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
Vietnam backpacking blog: Sleepers buses are a necessary evil!

That being said, bus travel all across Asia is questionable at best and part of travelling in this region is accepting some of that danger in the pursuit of adventure. We would just say to take the bus during the day, get a seated bus if you can or go for the smallest bus. These buses do run every single day and although there are accidents it’s not like they happen all the time. Just prepare for a wild ride with plenty of beeping and swerving!

We recommend booking through 12Go as the most reliable and trustworthy online agency with transparent pricing and a review system too so you can see what others made of each available option.

Search For Your Bus Here:

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Train Travel. A Great option on your 3-week Vietnam Itinerary

Train travel is by far the best way to get around on your 3 week Vietnam itinerary! However, the route is limited to following the coastal path up the country though you can get all the way from Saigon to Lao Cai which is close to Sa Pa.

This means that if you plan on going to places in land such as Da Lat, Phong Nha and the further central highlands or Ho Chi Minh Road area then you will need to take a bus. There is talk of fixing the line up to Da Lat as it does have a train station but who knows when that might be.

Hanging out of the window on a local train in Vietnam. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
3-week Vietnam backpacking itinerary: Trains are the ideal way to travel!

Train travel in Vietnam is much more relaxing and laid back than the bus and much safer too. You will pay more but if you opt for the lower classes the price still isn’t expensive and is perfect for any 3-week Vietnam itinerary.

Train travel is the best choice for your Vietnam 3-week itinerary but be sure to book as far in advance as you can, you can do that online with 12Go.

You can also take your motorbike on board the trains but it will cost quite a lot and there are limited spaces available for this service.

Vietnam train map. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
3 weeks in Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi

Search For Your Train Here:

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Air Travel

Domestic travel across Vietnam via air is another good option, especially for those with tighter time constraints. Vietnam Airlines connects all of the main cities and even some of the more regional places too. There are also flights available with Jetstar and Viet Jet. If you’re on a planned trip like a 3-week Vietnam itinerary then flying is a great way to optimise your time.

Flights will be one of the most expensive methods of transport and airlines in Vietnam are notorious for being quite strict with baggage allowance and charging quite a lot extra. It does however cut down on a LOT of travel time and is much safer than the buses! Flying is ideal for a 3-week Vietnam itinerary as it cuts down a lot of travel time!

View of the Hai Van Pass, Vietnam. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
On a 3-week Vietnam itinerary make time to rent a bike for the Hai Van Pass.

Search For Your Flight Here

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Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks: Bike Hire/ Motorbike Travel

We opted for motorbike travel throughout the whole of our time in Vietnam and whilst this is by far the most fun and adventurous way to see and travel the country and a favourite for those backpacking Vietnam.

However, on a three-week Vietnam itinerary, it’s just not really practical without intense planning. (We will write a post with some suggested short and longer routes for motorbiking in the future)

We don’t recommend doing a 3-week Vietnam itinerary if you want to tour on a bike as you should give yourself more time as it’s a much more gruelling and slow method than you might initially think!

READ MORE: See Our Guide To Motorbiking Through Vietnam Here

That doesn’t mean though that you can’t experience motorbike travel here on your 3-week Vietnam itinerary.

We highly recommend you rent them out on your day-to-day adventures in most destinations as you can see so much more. But do be very careful in the chaotic Vietnamese traffic, avoid Highway 1 and Saigon and drive within your ability!

Communist propaganda and motorbikes in Vietnam. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
Vietnam-itinerary 3 weeks: Not ideal on bikes as it takes so long but you can still do the Hai Van Pass!

But there are also areas of the country where you can make the journey on a bike. One just route is the famous Hai Van Pass between Hoi An and Hue. There are many companies who offer rentals between these two cities as well as easy rider tours (you’re on the back of the bike whilst a professional rides it!). It really is a must-do on any Vietnam 3 weeks itinerary.

This is a great way to get a taste of motorbike touring in Vietnam on one of the best roads in the country and also a road in which most large vehicles are banned. We recommend using Style Motorbikes where you can rent anything from a simple scooter to semi-manuals to several different sizes of full manual. They also do a luggage transfer service so you can ride without bags or you can just strap them to the back too.

READ MORE: See Our Adventure on The Hai Van Pass Here

Road sign for Hue on the Hai Van Pass. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
Doing the Hai Van Pass on your 3-week Vietnam itinerary on a motorbike is a must-do!

3 weeks in Vietnam: Minibus/ Vans and Private Transfers:

Another option to consider if your budget stretches this far and you are worried about travel in Vietnam is to opt for the smaller minibuses/ Vans or even a private driver. It is a good method of transport on your 3-week Vietnam itinerary for journeys where trains and planes don’t go.

For the minibus, option be sure to select “van” on 12Go but be aware that on some routes it might not be possible.

For private transfers and drivers speak directly to your accommodation for recommended services.

You can also book transfers through tour companies such as Klook and Get Your Guide. It is worth searching for each city to see what is available.

Klook.com
Light trails from traffic in Saigon. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
Crazy traffic in Saigon! A real experience on your 3-week Vietnam itinerary!

3-Week Itinerary Vietnam: Suggested Route: 

Saigon/ HCMC – 2 Day

Da Lat – 2 days

Quy Nhon – 2 days

Hoi An – 3 days

Hai Van Pass – 1 day

Hue – 1 day

Ninh Binh – 1 day

Hanoi – 2 days

Halong Bay – 1 day

Sapa – 2 days

Hanoi – 1 day

This itinerary leaves some room for transport/ transit and an extra day here or there especially if you fly. It covers 18 days of travel in 21 days which is 3 weeks.

Motorbike overlooking the mountain in Dalat. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
Vietnam itinerary for 3 weeks: Rent a motorbike whenever you can!

Our Favourite Backpacks

Osprey Fairpoint/ Fairview

We’ve used the Osprey Fairpoint/ Fairview for all our backpacking adventures over the past 5 years and highly recommend them!

The main area of the pack opens like a suitcase, which is great for using packing cubes to keep everything organised and they even come with a detachable day pack!


Vietnam in 3 weeks: A Breakdown

Week 1: South and South Central Vietnam

Saigon/ HCMC – 2 days 

Start off your journey by arriving in Saigon, otherwise known as Ho Chi Minh City.

Saigon is a city of contrasting options, some people love the hustle and bustle of the busy streets where as other people find it overwhelming. It certainly isn’t a slow introduction to Vietnam and you’ll be thrown right in at the deep end! The 7 million motorbikes that clog the roads with their fumes and beeps take some getting used to but it does have their charms!

With a short amount of time to cover the whole country, we suggest having two days to explore Saigon before moving on to some of the more beautiful parts of the country.

Spend a day taking in the culture and history of the city through a combination of touring the old colonial buildings as well as immersing yourself in the markets of the city. Be sure to sample plenty of street food and end your day in the busy backpacker streets of district 1 (Phạm Ngũ Lão street) for a taste of the chaotic and crazy nightlife of Saigon even if it’s just as an observer!

Saigon post office. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

On your second day make a trip out to the Cu Chi Tunnels in the morning via a tour. Head back in the city and explore war-era-related sights. Visit the Reunification/ Independence Palace as well as the moving War Remnants Museum before heading to the statue of Ho Chi Minh himself across from the beautiful People’s Committee of HCM Building. Then explore the surrounding area with its juxtaposition of hammer & sickle banners, propaganda posters and upmarket western designer boutiques and malls! Stop by the cool Cafe Apartments too in this area.

Places to see in Saigon:

  • Notre Dame Cathedral
  • Saigon Post Office
  • District 1 backpacker street/ Phạm Ngũ Lão street
  • Ben Thanh Markets
  • Statue of Ho Chi Minh/ People’s Committee of HCM Building
  • The Independence/ Reunification Palace
  • War Remnants Museum
  • Cu Chi Tunnels – Just outside the city so take a tour

Where To Stay In Saigon/ HCMC

Backpacker Budget: Dola Hostel 2

Right in the heart of the city and ideal for backpackers this hostel is dirt cheap but offers great extras like multiple plug sockets for each bed, curtains for privacy, great lockers and comfortable beds alongside clean bathrooms.

  • Good free brekkie
  • Foof terrace, lounge and balcony areas
  • Close to a circle K

Mid-Range Hotel/ Accommodation: Maison De Camille Boutique Hotel

An elegant hotel perfect for couples, groups of friends or families it is located in a quieter and more upmarket area of the city.

  • Terrace area and garden area
  • Kitchen
  • Room service

Reasonably Priced Higher-End Accommodation: Icon Saigon

With an infinity pool and located in an ideal area in the heart of the city we spent our Christmas Day there one year! For budget travellers looking for a reasonably priced bit of luxury for a few days, this is an ideal place.

  • Great buffet breakfast
  • Afternoon tea, coffee and snacks
  • Gym

Transport To Saigon

Getting to Saigon is easy from the rest of the region and further afield. Being Vietnam’s main airport it is well connected to destinations around the world including Australia, France, China, Turkey, Japan, Korea, India, Russia and The Middle East, you can also get flights more locally to almost anywhere in Vietnam as well as many destinations in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Brunei, Singapore and The Philippines.

Bus travel overland is also easy from neighbouring countries. We arrived in Saigon from Cambodia both times and the border crossing and journey were pretty straightforward. We recommend travelling from Phnom Penh if you do the journey as it’s better connected with a more direct service.

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Da Lat – 2 days 

Head out to the highlands and the cooler temperatures of Da Lat. The city might surprise you with how big it is for this region but it’s still a welcome break from the chaos and heat of Saigon. Up here you can escape into nature by exploring the villages, waterfalls, mountain passes and coffee plantations of the central highlands of Vietnam.

Hire a motorbike and explore. Head to Elephant Waterfall but take your time and stop at the multiple viewpoints and villages along the way.

After here head on up to the intriguing Linh Phuoc Pagoda with its colourful mosaics, huge Buddha statue and the underground lair of Buddhist hell.

Carry on further down this road to the abandoned Tiger Waterfalls passing some amazing views of the coffee terraces and some lovely local villages. The road is rough at times down towards the falls but you will be greeted with a real hidden gem unlike the more touristy offerings closer to the city that we found underwhelming. You will likely have the waterfall to yourself!

Elephant Waterfall slow shutter speed photograph. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
The magnificent Elephant Waterfalls

Take a canyoning tour to really see what Da Lat is all about! Leap off waterfalls, abseil down cliff faces and take on the adventure capital of Vietnam in a beautiful location. Any Vietnam 3 weeks trip has to include this incredible adventure!

After all that excitement it’s time to head inside and warm up with some Da Lat weirdness! Explore the 1000 roofs/ Maze cafe with a hot cup of coffee and/ or head to the Crazy House for even more wacky architecture!

READ MORE: See Our Canyoning Adventure in Da Lat Here

Places to see in Da Lat:

  • Elephant Waterfalls
  • Tiger Waterfalls
  • Local villages and coffee plantations
  • Get on the epic Canyoning adventure
  • Linh Phuoc Pagoda
  • Crazy House and Maze Cafe (1000 roofs)

Where To Stay In Da Lat

Backpacker Budget: Mooka ‘s Home

A fun and friendly hostel run a local family, this hostel hits all the right marks. It’s got dorm rooms with well thought out beds with curtains as well as plenty of private rooms too.

  • Massive lockers
  • Communal kitchen
  • Roof terrace to chill on

Mid-Range Hotel: Hera Boutique Hotel

Ideal for travelling couples the Hera Boutique Hotel offers great spacious rooms for a similar price to what you might pay for two beds in a dorm. It offers great value for budget travellers not wanting a hostel.

  • Kettle in the room
  • Set in a quiet area of town
  • En-suite rooms

Reasonably Priced Higher-End Accommodation: New Life Hotel

New Life Hotel is a great option, especially for couples wanting to treat themselves without breaking the bank. This 3-star hotel has a fantastic restaurant and bar.

  • Panoramic views over the city
  • Terrace and garden
  • Buffet breakfast
Rural countryside in the central highlands of Vietnam. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
Vietnam travel itinerary 3 weeks: The central highlands are a beautiful part of the country.

Transport To Da Lat

The train won’t go up to Da Lat so your options are limited. You can take the bus which can be sometimes a little scary on the winding roads, you can find a smaller van or you can take a short flight up here from Saigon.

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Quy Nhon – 2 days

Forget Mui Ne or Nha Trang, they are overrun, over-developed and overly expensive. Instead head further on to the more authentic, quieter and less touristy coastal town of Quy Nhon. We absolutely fell in love with this city and the surroundings and stayed longer than anticipated. You will enjoy the beaches, wild coast, fishing villages and laid-back local vibe much more than Mui Ne or Nha Trang (unless you’re a vacationing Russian of course!)

Day 1:

Rent a bike and head south of the city to Ganh Da Dia. It’s a long day but you will be rewarded with some of the best and most unique coastline Vietnam has to offer in the shape of Giant’s Causeway-style basalt columns. Getting there means taking the highway traversing the coast, crossing a bamboo bridge, and riding through rice paddies and small villages before exploring the incredible features of this section of volcanic coastline!

READ MORE: See Our Ganh Da Dia Adventure Here

Ganh Da Dia near Quy Nhon. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

Stay more around Quy Nhon itself and explore the unspoilt beaches and fishing villages of the region. Hit the main beach before heading to Bai Xep village and the secluded beaches here for a hit of local culture and relaxation at the same time! Your Vietnam three-week itinerary has to include some time by the coast and this is the perfect off-the-beaten-track place!

Quy Nhon coastline. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

Places to see in Quy Nhon:

  • Gahn Da Dia/ Bamboo Bridge/ Fishing Village
  • Bai Xep
  • Quy Nhon beach
  • Ky Co Beach
  • Queen’s Beach

Where To Stay In Quy Nhon

Backpacker Budget: Life’s a Beach Hostel

A hostel on a beach, hell yeah! It doesn’t get much better than this! This awesome hostel is a little bit outside of town but it offers a great place to relax with dorms, private rooms, a bar, and a restaurant.

  • Direct access to the beach
  • Owners are super cool
  • Onsite restaurant

Mid-Range Hotel: La Maison Boutique Hotel

A fun, modern and basic hotel that offers great rooms for those still on a budget but wanting something more than a hostel. It’s the perfect place for backpacking couples.

  • Short stroll to the beach
  • Has a swimming pool
  • Onsite Restaurant

Reasonably Priced Higher-End Accommodation: Seaside Boutique Resort Quy Nhon 

The Seaside Boutique Resort offers a slice of luxury for a great price given the facilities. It’s got its own private beach and is up the road from the city centre.

  • Huge pool
  • Beachside location
  • Fitness centre

Transport To Quy Nhon

Getting to Quy Nhon is relatively straightforward but can require some connections.

Once you are back down on the coast you can take a train to Dieu Tri and then connect on the local service down to Quy Nhon. The closest airport is Phu Cat which is around 30 km from the city, it only flies domestically and flights aren’t available from Da Lat but they are from Saigon.

Buses will also require you to connect probably also along the coast in Nha Trang as it is a bit more of a niche place but trust us it’s well worth the effort.

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Our Favourite Travel Camera & Lens

Sony A7IV & Sony FE 24-105 f4

The Sony a7IV is the perfect travel camera. Offering incredible image quality, great portability and a varied lens selection.

Our favourite travel lens is the Sony FE 24-105 f4. it’s a great all-rounder, super sharp and a perfect focal range for travel.


Vietnam 3-week Itinerary: Week 2: Northern Central Vietnam

Hoi An – 3 days

Hoi An ancient town is somewhere that splits opinions just as much as Saigon but for different reasons. It’s undoubtedly beautiful and has that crumbling colonial allure that alongside the glowing lanterns is hard to resist. But the other side of things is the overtourism, sanitisation and scams of the town. But any Vietnam in three weeks guide just has to include this iconic location!

It almost feels like a Disneyland for tourists where you can’t turn a corner without being hounded for money. But make your own mind up, there are some genuinely amazing experiences to have here, especially in the surrounding countryside and the town is still well worth visiting. Just go there with a realistic idea of what to expect and a keen sense of scams!

Explore the city on foot: wander the yellow wash alleyways, take in the old houses and the ornate pagodas and get lost beneath the mesmerising lanterns. Be sure to stay for the evening when the city lights up and the rainbow of colour sway gently in the wind. You can either check out a map off all the sights, wander and get lost or you could always take a guided walking tour if you want more of a local insight into the history of the town.

Be wary of scams especially involving the fruit sellers forcing you to take photos and buy fruit for extortionate amounts! Unfortunately, this isn’t the place for authentic and intimate street photography!

Be sure to also stop at Banh Mi Phuong for what Anthony Bourdain described as the “Best Banh Mi in the world!” It’s a fun place to add to any Vietnam Itinerary: 3 weeks.

Lanterns in Hoi An. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

Take an Eco Tour out to the local villages nearby. You can explore the fishing culture, learn how rice is farmed, ride around the coconut forests in a coracle and have a local cooking lesson. The options are endless and can often be combined into an unforgettable day of learning about all aspects of the culture of this region from wartime heartache to centuries-old traditional ways of tending the land.

READ MORE: See Our incredible Hoi An Eco Tour Here

Rice farming tour in Hoi An. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

Hit the beaches, Hoi An is not only famous for its old town and Eco Tours but being close to the coast here are some great beaches here too. An Bang, Cua Dai and Binh Minh are great options close to the city. If your budget allows then a tour or boat trip out to the idyllic Cham islands is a perfect way to end your time in Hoi An. 

Coast near Hoi An. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

Places to see in Hoi An:

  • Japanese covered bridge
  • Fujian Assembly hall
  • Chuc Thanh pagoda
  • Quan Kong Hoi An Temple
  • Explore the Old Town
  • Take in The Lanterns At Night
  • Local villages, fishing communities, rice farmers
  • Coconut Mangroves
  • Trip to My Son ruins
  • An Bang Beach
  • Cua Dai Beach
  • Binh Minh beach
  • Cham Islands

READ MORE: See Our Thoughts on Hoi An Here

Where To Stay In Hoi An

Backpacker Budget:  Backhome Hostel & Bar

A really clean and modern top-rated hostel in Hoi An which includes breakfast too. Here you can even get a reasonably priced private room too as well as dorm rooms.

  • Located close to the old town
  • Great social environment
  • Onsite restaurant

Mid Range Hotel: Hoian Central Hotel

Located near the beach area of Hoi An the Hoian Central Hotel is an ideally priced hotel with a luxury feel. With an impressive breakfast, it ticks all the boxes at a great price.

  • Swimming pool
  • Free bike rental
  • Garden and lounge

Reasonably Priced Higher-End Accommodation: Bel Marina Hoi An Resort

For the price, this place is absolutely incredible and for those wanting a bit of a treat whilst backpacking or those on a holiday then this is a perfect option without breaking the bank.

  • Swimming pool
  • Extensive buffet breakfast
  • Located only 100m from the old town

Transport To Hoi An:

A great option to get to Hoi An from Quy Nhon is to take the train from Dieu Tri to Da Nang. Each one is easy to get to from both destinations and the train is a much more scenic and enjoyable journey than racing down highway 1.

For those coming here direct from Da Lat, the main option is the bus though there is a short flight available from Da Lat to Da Nang.

Da Nang is a major city on the coast between 30-40 km away depending on your mode of transport. You can easily arrange a cheap private transfer or use the Grab App which is similar to Uber but operates in Southeast Asia.

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Hai Van Pass – 1 day (Pass Through From Hoi An to Hue)

The Hai Van pass was made legendary during an episode of Top Gear, the winding road clings to the side of a mountain whilst overlooking the ocean below. It really is an experience worth putting yourself out for and is often touted as one of the best roads in the world with Jeremy Clarkson describing it as a “deserted ribbon of perfection”. It lives up to its reputation too and is a complete joy to ride for both motorbike enthusiasts and beginners.

The distance from Hoi An to Hue is only 121 km but this is a route to take your time over and spend the whole day enjoying it. The pass itself takes up only 21 km of the journey, but with almost 11 degrees of incline and a road that snakes through the mountainous landscape, it’s not one to rush.

View of the beach from Hai Van Pass. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

The Hai Van Pass is not only a beautiful and exhilarating experience but it’s a significant place for Vietnam. The pass is roughly halfway up the country and for centuries split the Cham people of the south and the Dai Viet Kingdoms to the North. It also divides the different climates of the country too with the south being warm all year round and the North being colder and wet in the winter. 

READ MORE: See Our Hai Van Pass Adventure Here

How to do the Hai Van Pass:

You have three main options: Rent a motorbike or scooter, take an easy rider bike tour or take a minibus/ car tour. Each option allows you to experience the road and the pass in different ways.

Renting a motorbike or a scooter is the ultimate way to tackle the Hai Van pass, you feel and traverse every bend and can stop whenever and wherever you like. Rental companies offer different motorbikes and allow you to ride one way and drop off. You can also arrange luggage transit or strap them to your motorbike. If you’re a beginner we recommend hiring a motorbike a few days before and getting some practice.

We recommend “Style Motorbikes” for your rental.

A motorbike on the Hai Van Pass. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

An easy rider tour is a great compromise if you want to feel the wind in your hair but you’re not quite confident about riding yourself. Share a motorbike with a professional rider and stop at all the incredible vantage points along the way with a personal guide and fun photo ops on the motorbike. Luggage can be set in a separate vehicle so you can just enjoy the trip.

A minibus/ Car transfer tour is the most sensible option. Essentially a transfer over to Hue you will have pre-arranged stops along the way and the fortifications at the top where you will likely have lunch. Luggage comes with you on board and it’s a great option for families and groups. You can even do it in an old US Army jeep!

A switchback/ Hairpin bend on Hai Van Pass. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
Vietnam 3-week itinerary: The Hai Van Pass is a must-do!

Book Your Tours for The Hai Van Pass

Hue – 1 day

Being the home to the one-time imperial capital of Vietnam the ancient seat of the one-time Vietnamese Royal Family is a great place to visit for a day. It was in fact still the capital of the country for 143 years until 1945 when the Nguyen Dynasty collapsed.

For a city with such a rich history today it is a pretty unassuming place which is laid back and easy to explore.

The citadel of Hue. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

The main attraction here is the remains of the old Citadel and the imperial tombs. Construction dates back to 1804 but many of the artefacts and buildings were badly damaged in the Vietnam/ American war which reflects the city’s turbulent past. You will see many in various stages of restoration as you explore. There are also several tombs to see around the city too with Khai Dinh’s and Emperor Minh Mang’s Tomb being the most worthwhile. 

Being a centre of Buddhism in Vietnam there are also lots of amazing places of worship all over the city with Thien Mu Pagoda being the most important and occupying a great vantage point over the Perfume River. 

Another cool place to see outside of Hue is the abandoned theme/water park. It’s technically off limits but a flexible security guard will let you in for a small “fee”, it’s got that creepy vibe going on and has recently become quite an instagram it! 

Abandoned waterpark in Hue. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

Places to see in Hue:

  • The Imperial City
  • Emperor Minh Mang’s Tomb
  • Khai Dinh’s tomb
  • Thien Mu Pagoda
  • The Abandoned Theme Park

Where To Stay In Hue:

Backpacker Budget: Friendly House Hostel

A great guest house where we stayed during our time in Hue so it comes highly recommended. A well-maintained and lovely place to stay.

  • Awesome breakfast
  • Really lovely staff
  • Super comfortable beds

Mid Range Hotel: Jade Scene Hotel

A really lovely place to base yourself in Hue, especially for couples wanting somewhere a little bit more upmarket but still on a budget. It’s the perfect place to base yourself whilst exploring Hue.

  • Great buffet breakfast
  • Swimming pool
  • Central location

Reasonably Priced Higher-End Accommodation: Senna Hue Hotel

Located right in the centre of Hue and situated by the banks of the famous perfume river Cherish Hotel is ideal for those wanting luxury at an affordable price.

  • Swimming pool
  • Spa and wellness centre as well as a gym
  • Onsite restaurant

Transport To Hue:

Getting to Hue is easy as it has quite a few transport options. Most will arrive from Hoi An or Da Nang on a Hai Van Pass tour but there are other options too.

Hue is connected to the reunification railway that runs from Saigon to Hanoi which is also a quite scenic journey if you miss out on the Hai Van Pass.

Hue Airport (Phú Bài Airport) operates flights to and from Saigon, Hanoi, Da Nang and Da Lat

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3-week Vietnam Itinerary: Week 3: Northern Vietnam

Ninh Binh – 1 day

Time for the long trip north from Hue, between the imperial city and the Ninh Binh sights, dry out a little unless you’ve got time to cut inland through the Ho Chi Minh road and into Phong Nha National Park. No worries though as you’re about to head straight towards another limestone wonderland in Ninh Binh!

Think of it as a Halong Bay without the water, where sharp towering peaks of Karst rock punctuate the rice paddies below and women gently drift down the river miraculously rowing with their feet!

Spend a day exploring the stunning landscape here, either rent out a motorbike, push bike or do an organised tour to make the most of your time here.

Take a boat trip down Tam Coc to get a sense of the scale and beauty of the place from ground level and watch in awe as the local women somehow manage to row with only their feet, talk about hands-free! Then head off to the peaks and scale the top of Mua Cave for panoramic views down to the snaking river below, emerald green paddies and ice-grey limestone cliffs. 

READ MORE: See Our Time In Ninh Binh Here

Tam Coc in Ninh Binh. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

Places to see in Ninh Binh:

  • Boat Ride Through Tam Coc
  • Mua Cave Climb
  • Bich Dong pagoda
  • Explore The Villages, Peaks and Temples on a Bike

Where To Stay In Ninh Binh:

Backpacker Budget: The Banana Tree Hostel

A really fun, unique and chilled-out hostel in Ninh Binh! Located in Tam Coc close to the main attractions and mountainous rural landscape of Ninh Binh it is the ideal place to explore the area from.

  • Swimming pool
  • Bar and restaurant
  • Table tennis, pool table and bike hire

Mid Range Hotel: Tam Coc Holiday Hotel & Villa

This hotel is an absolutely stunning option even for those on a budget who just want something a little bit special. Offering a swimming pool, a garden and a sun terrace it’s a great place to relax.

  • Extensive breakfast buffet
  • Perfect location in Tam Coc
  • Free bikes

Reasonably Priced Higher-End Accommodation: Bai Dinh Garden Resort & Spa

An absolutely incredible and unique place to base yourself in Ninh Binh this resort offers bungalow-style accommodation in a garden setting for a really reasonable rate.

  • Swimming pool
  • Fitness centre and spa
  • Bar and incredible breakfast

Transport To Ninh Binh:

Nihn Bihn is less than 100km from Hanoi so transport is pretty each. However, it’s quite a long journey from Hue but it’s a popular stop-off point so it should be easy to organise transport on any Vietnam Itinerary: 3 weeks.

Trains and buses are available on this route but it will take between 10-13 hours. Trains are the most comfortable and safety of the two but they are quite a bit more expensive.

Ninh Binh doesn’t have an airport but with Hanoi only being 94 km away and with good transport links on seated buses and the train you could always fly to Hanoi and head down for a day.

The great thing here is that the trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is a short one so it’s also ideal as a day trip too or a short leg of the journey through the country.

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Ha Noi – 2 days

Time to head back to the big city and one of our favourite places to hang out in Vietnam. Most people find Hanoi much more charming and alluring than Saigon and that is in part down to its charming french quarter and more laid-back vibe.

Enjoy a day on foot getting lost in the old quarter of the city. Eat street food, dash down alleyways, and gaze in awe at the wonderful crumbling colonial architecture. Then head to Hoan Kiem Lake as the sunsets for a peaceful evening.

Cathedral in Hanoi. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

Hit up some of the varied architecture and history of Hanoi by heading to the Temple of Literature that dates back to 1070, whilst in this area of the city also visit the UNESCO site of The Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long which harks back to the same period. Moving on in time head to the Hanoi Opera House, a fine example of colonial architecture dating back to 1901. Then to finish off the eras queue up to enter the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh. A strange but quintessentially communist experience the building was constructed between 1973-1975 in a style combing influence from Lenin’s mausoleum in Moscow with a modern take on Vietnamese architecture.

READ MORE: See Our Guide To Hanoi Here

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

Places To See In Hanoi:

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
  • Explore The French Quarter
  • Hoan Kiem Lake
  • Dong Xuan Market
  • Hanoi Opera House
  • The Temple of Literature
  • Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long

Where To Stay In Hanoi:

Backpacker Budget: Hanoi Lucky Hostel

A great centrally located hostel which offers a buffet breakfast, beds with curtains and individual fans as well as a bar and lounge. This light, modern and clean hostel is in an unbeatable location.

  • Reasonably priced private rooms
  • Balcony for each room
  • Great social vibe

Mid-Range Hotel: Golden Legend Palace Hotel

An elegant and stylish hotel right in the heart of the old town this boutique hotel is perfect for those wanting a high standard on a modest budget. Backpacking couples will love the luxury this place affords them. 

  • Continental breakfast
  • Right by Hoan Kiem Lake
  • Terraces and balconies

Reasonably Priced Higher-End Accommodation: Sunline Paon Hotel & Spa

This modern and elegant hotel offers a rooftop pool and a spa and gym. For those looking for some luxury for a reasonable price, this is the perfect spot in Hanoi. Enjoy 4* service for budget-friendly prices.

  • Panoramic views
  • Extensive buffet breakfast
  • Bar overlooking Hanoi

Transport To Hanoi:

Hanoi being the capital city of Vietnam is well connected as expected. So the next bit of your Vietnam Itinerary: 3 weeks is easy to organise from here.

Buses run from almost every other city and corner of the country but expect them to take a while depending on where you are coming from though they should be bookable at short notice.

Trains connect Hanoi to Saigon via the reunification line that runs down the coast of the country. There is also a northern extension line that runs up to the Chinese border too.

Hanoi Airport serves almost every domestic destination but internationally it is somewhat limited by only offering flights mostly within Asia. However, it is connected to hubs such as Singapore, KL, Hong Kong and Dubai. You can also connect domestically at Saigon for flights to Europe and Australia.

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Halong Bay – 1 Day Tour From Hanoi

Halong bay is a highlight of Vietnam for many of those who visit this wonderful country. Sailing through the mesmerising limestone formations has a real Jurassic Park vibe. Despite the fact it might not be quite as serene as it once was it still has an unmatched allure that has to be seen to be believed.

Ha Long Bay. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
Vietnam Itinerary: 3 weeks. Ha Long Bay is a must-do and a great way to end the trip.

Visiting and scaling features such as monkey islands, kayaking through the many tiny caves within the peaks and witnessing the floating fishing villages in the bays was an unforgettable experience. Many of the more expensive tours also offer a much more intensive day including stopping off at more bays and islands as well as swimming opportunities in the warmer months. Halong Bay should still be pretty temperate all year round but can be slightly colder and wetter in the winter months.

With time being short, we recommend doing a tour from Hanoi which should include transfers and food.

READ MORE: See Our Halong Bay Adventure Here

Monkey Island in Ha Long Bay. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

Sa Pa – 2-day Tour From Hanoi

Heading up to the far north of Vietnam was probably the overall highlight of our time in the country when we first visited and something we’re looking forward to expanding on during this trip.

It’s possible to head up to Sapa on your own and organise a trekking tour with some local tribes women but being on a tight schedule (on a Vietnam Itinerary: 3 weeks) we recommend doing a 2-day overnight tour from Hanoi.

Rice terraces in Sapa. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary

Sapa is unlike anywhere else we’ve been, the combination of the unique tribal culture that still survives amongst the Red Dao and H’Mong peoples with the awe-inspiring landscape makes it a perfect destination. Rice terraces cling to the misty mountains as tiny villages appear and disappear amongst the clouds with wandering tribes women keeping their traditions alive with their clothing and way of life. Staying with local families in the middle of this enchanting landscape, immersing yourself in a totally unique environment and culture is something that will stay with us forever.

READ MORE: See Our Trekking Tour in Sapa Here

Rice terraces in Sapa. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks. It just has to include Sapa!

Transport To SaPa:

If you want to make your own way up to Sapa you can take a bus all the way or a train to Lao Cai with a short bus up the mountains to Sapa itself. You should factor this into your Vietnam Itinerary: 3 weeks.

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Book Your Tours for SaPa:

Ha Noi – 1 Day

Head back to the big city and spend one last day in the chaos of Vietnam. Wander aimlessly, indulge in street food, dodge motorbikes and just soak it all in. Before you go head to the Dong Xuan Market for some last-minute souvenirs and bartering! Your 3 week Vietnam itinerary is unfortunately at an end but hopefully, you’ve made some amazing memories.

Search For All Transport Options Here:

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3-week Vietnam Itinerary: Final Thoughts

Ok, so there you have it! There’s a lot to see and do in Vietnam and 3 weeks might seem like a long trip for most people but it really is only long enough to scratch the surface. Your Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks will provide you with a real taste of this fascinating country and all its highlights!

However, you can still pack in a lot of the highlights and get a good mix of urban chaos, varied history, phenomenal landscapes, extraordinary culture and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. With Vietnam, you get to combine beaches with urban sprawls, mountains with citadels and tribal treks with war relics. It really has something for everyone and makes the perfect destination for those wanting a trip filled to the brim with varied adventures!

The citadel in Hue. 3 weeks in Vietnam, Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks, 3 week Vietnam itinerary
3-week Vietnam itinerary: Hue as the past capital is worth a day!

READ MORE: See Our 7-week Motorbike Adventure Around Vietnam Here

READ MORE: See Our Experience Staying With A Local Family Here

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21 comments

  1. danikbates1982 says:

    I am not being funny but I think you have just planned my vacation to Vietnam! Still havent got out there yet but when I do I am going to do it full on in one hit with the kids soon. Might not be able to do everything on this list because of them but I know for sure I will get to know the culture, food, check out the scenery like crazy. Dont think I would do a motorcycle and have one of my kids on the back in the cities, that would be frigging crazy. Anyway..wandering off there…you covered all the places I want to go, still not sure if I would go back to hosteling now…I miss those days but got into luxury and comfort hotels. Sigh…getting old. 😛

    1. Ha ha. Good to hear! Yeah very different travelling with kids. You don’t want to get on those buses either and the motorbikes are a definite no-no even for most people. I’ve seen whole families on motorbikes though… Vietnamese ones of course!! Lots of good quality and cheap luxury options too as well as hostels!

  2. Vietnam is still on the list of places we have not visited. Thanks for some more ideas of places we should visit. Although it does look like we will need a long stay to see them all. Even if we probably won’t stay for 10 weeks. We would want to use the train when possible. But understand that routes are limited. We are not sure that a motorbike would work for us. Even if our son spent all of his time exploring that way. I have saved this post for when we actually put Vietnam on our travel plans. Your post has shown why we need to move it up on the list.

    1. It’s somewhere with a lot of places to see and they’re quite spread out so it does take time if travelling overland. 3 weeks is a good enough time to see the highlights though. No, the motorbike is something for people wanting to spend a much longer and much more gruelling time in Vietnam, it’s great but its hard work!

  3. Lara Dunning says:

    I always enjoy reading your guides as you always include such useful information. Vietnam looks like an amazing country and I’d love to spend three weeks exploring. As someone who gets motion sick easily, I’d have to opt for the train or a plane, and that certainly sounds doable, even though I might miss some of the off-the-beaten path locales. Ever since I saw Halong Bay in a movie – can’t remember which one now – I’ve wanted to go there.

    1. Thanks. After spending quite a bit of time here we’ve seen quite a bit to write about! Yeah, so much to do here as the trains are for sure the best way if you can get a ticket for them.

  4. Vietnam has been on my travel list for a while. Your photos have only made me want to visit even more! I’d especially love to see Halong Bay. 🙂 Thank you for sharing & fueling my wanderlust!

    1. Thanks. Yeah Ha Long is a real highlight even if it is a little over popular these days.

  5. I’d definitely take the train over a bus. I think you would see more and as you mentioned it’s safer! My partner has done a 2 week motorbike ride through Vietnam and is lucky to be alive after a truck ran him off the road!

    1. Yeah those buses are crazy but unfortunately they are convenient and easier to book. Yeah, getting ran off the road by a truck is also a common thing pretty much everyday on the bikes.

  6. Looks like the perfect amount of time to get a taste of Vietnam! Looks like you did so much in this time and your route is exactly the one I’d like to take when I make it to Vietnam!

    1. Yeah, there is so much to do and a lot to fit in! Three weeks is a great amount of time to see almost all of it!!

  7. Alison says:

    I am dying to go to Vietnam and your itinerary looks like a great one to follow. So much great information and travel tips here. I love how you have left some flex time in for travelling days. Love those buses in SE Asia!! Saved for future use!

    1. Thanks. Yeah you will love it in Vietnam. It’s intense so you need some down time too for sure and a bit of room to add a day or change here and there.

  8. That looks like quite the itinerary, providing a good mix of experiences to keep your interest. Have you thought about what places you would remove from that trip of you needed to reduce to a 2-week period? I do like how you followed the coast from one end to the other.

    1. Yeah there’s a great range of diverse things to do across Vietnam which is what makes it a great destination. I’ve been thinking about writing a follow up two week post in the future too as that also seems to be something people are searching for an I understand most people take two week holidays. I think you would have to miss out on some places like Quy Nhon, Hue and Dalat maybe and spend less time in HCMC as well as flying more but it’s definitely possible and each traveller might want to take out a different place.

  9. Candy says:

    This is an amazing itinerary with tons of options! I like that you provided the different types of transportation. I would love to travel by train; however, my time is usually limited so flying may be my best option to see as much as Vietnam has to offer. I really love your photo of Elephant Waterfall. It makes me want to jump on a motorbike and visit the villages along the way to it.

    1. Thanks! Yeah so much to do and many options too. I think if you are short on time then just flying is the best way to see as much as you can, you can still combine some shorter train trips or days of biking like the Hai Van Pass. Thanks, I was really pleased with that photo, I’ve only just started using filters and am finding it to be good fun! Biking is for sure the best way to see rural life here and is highly recommended even if you can only do it on day trips like to the waterfalls etc.

  10. Astrid Vinje says:

    Ooh, we’re headed to Vietnam in a couple of months. This itinerary will be really helpful. I think I may cut out some of the cities (but keep the train ride), as we tend to travel pretty slow.

    1. Awesome. Yeah there is a lot to do so you can always taylor it to what sort of places you like most but it’s nice that is has something for everyone like that. HCMC is one that though interesting in many ways could easily been taken out and just used as a transport hub, similarly Hanoi could be seen in a day if it’s not your sort of thing but Hanoi is nicer than Saigon.

  11. Erika English says:

    I think my trip to Vietnam will be shorter than 3 weeks but I will definitely be checking out some of the places listed here. Thank you for the informative guide!