Perfect 7-Day Vietnam Itinerary for First-Time Visitors!

Summary:
7-Day Vietnam Itinerary – Planning a trip to Vietnam from India in 2025? This easy 7-day plan covers the best spots from the charm of Hanoi to a dreamy cruise in Ha Long Bay and the lively buzz of Ho Chi Minh City. Packed with tips and must-do experiences, it is everything you need for a trip to remember!

Welcome to Vietnam, a country full of natural beauty and rich traditions. It is a place where old customs live side by side with lively, modern cities. Peaceful green waters flow through cities filled with history and life. For Indian travellers, Vietnam feels both excitingly new and comfortingly familiar. This country offers a holiday experience that delights all your senses.

A trip to Vietnam is like stepping into a vibrant postcard where tradition and nature live in perfect harmony. Vietnam has something for everyone: romantic spots for couples, fun activities for families, and peaceful, cultural experiences for solo travellers. With direct flights from India and the rising popularity of Vietnam tour packages, there is never been a better time to visit.

Planning your first trip may feel a bit confusing, so we have made a 7-day itinerary just for you. It mixes must-see places with real local vibes to give you a fun and easy trip. This blog is here to make your first visit from India to Vietnam truly special. 

Come along, it is going to be a trip you will not forget!

Why Visit Vietnam in 2025?

Vietnam wins the heart of everyone who visits. The blend of nature, culture, and history in Vietnam makes your journey truly special.

Here is why Vietnam is the place to be in 2025!

• Easy e-visa process for Indian passport holders.
• Ideal for a short 6- to 8-day international holiday.
• Exceptional Value for money.
• Fresh, offbeat, and less commercial than other Southeast Asia countries.
• Excellent connectivity from India.
• Awe-inspiring landscapes.
• Delicious street food and vegetarian options.
• A great mix of nature, history, and modern comforts.
• Warm & welcoming locals.
• Family-friendly and honeymoon-worthy destinations.
• Ideal for a short 6- to 8-day holiday.

Also Read: Top 5 Reasons Indian Tourists Love Traveling to Vietnam and Thailand

When is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam?

Picking the right time to visit Vietnam makes a big difference. The weather changes a lot from north to south. If you are planning to explore both areas, it is best to go during the dry season. That way, you will enjoy good weather for all your plans and activities. If you travel during March or April, the weather is pleasant, not too humid or hot and flowers are in full bloom. The weather is perfect for easy walks, boat rides, and sightseeing without feeling too tired.

September to November has clear skies and cool breezes making it perfect for visiting Halong Bay, Hanoi, and southern Vietnam. Avoid travelling from May to August, hot and sticky weather. If you plan your trip to Vietnam around school holidays or Diwali vacations, October to November hits the sweet spot.

Also Read: Vietnam In December 2025: Weather, Insider Tips, Best Time to Visit, and Things to Do!

7-Day Vietnam Itinerary

This 7-day trip takes you across Vietnam from north to south. You will see amazing landscapes, learn about its history, and soak in the lively culture. 

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Your exciting holiday starts when you land at Hanoi Airport. A driver will meet you and take you straight to your hotel. After hotel check-in, ease into your Vietnam experience. Step outside and explore the vibe of the city. In the evening, stroll through the lively Old Quarter and enjoy the peaceful views around Hoan Kiem Lake, right in the heart of Hanoi.

Things to Do on Day 1 in Vietnam

• Stroll through the lively Old Quarter.
• Enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride.
• Visit Ngoc Son Temple.
• Try local Vietnamese coffee at a café.
• Watch the sunset at Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour

Today, get ready to explore the amazing history and culture of Hanoi. A guided city tour will take you to some of the most famous and important spots in the city. In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show, a fun and unique Vietnamese performance that both kids and adults will love.

Things to Do on Day 2 in Vietnam

• Explore the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex (from the outside).
• Visit an ancient Buddhist temple – the One Pillar Pagoda.
• Walk through the serene grounds of the first university of the country – the Temple of Literature.
• See the beautiful Tran Quoc Pagoda, located on the edge of West Lake.
• Explore the French Quarter with its elegant colonial buildings and wide roads
• In the evening, attend a cultural Water Puppet Show, a thousand-year-old art form.
• Explore Dong Xuan Night Market for shopping.

Also Read: Hanoi Travel Guide: Where Tradition Meets Vibrant City Life!

Day 3: Halong Bay Overnight Cruise

Leave the bustling city and explore the calm green waters and stunning limestone cliffs of Halong Bay. Get ready for one of the best parts of your Vietnam trip! Today, you will head from Hanoi to the coast and hop on an overnight cruise in the stunning Halong Bay. This UNESCO heritage site is popular for its nearly 2,000 limestone islands rising from the sea. Spending the night on the cruise lets you truly enjoy the beauty and calm of this magical place.

Things to Do on Day 3 in Vietnam

• Early breakfast at your Hanoi hotel.
• Travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay via a comfortable shuttle.
• Enjoy an approximately 3.5-hour scenic drive through rural Vietnam.
• Go on board your cruise, receive a welcome drink, and enjoy lunch as you sail.
• Visit stunning caves like Sung Sot.
• Go kayaking or take a bamboo boat ride through serene lagoons.
• Enjoy a beautiful sunset over the bay from the sundeck.
• Savour a delicious dinner onboard and enjoy a peaceful night under the stars.

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Day 4: Return to Hanoi + Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

Wake up to the serene views of Halong Bay. Start your morning with a relaxing Tai Chi session on the deck. Enjoy a bit more of Ha Long Bay’s beauty before flying south to Ho Chi Minh City – the biggest and busiest city in Vietnam. Head back to Hanoi airport for your flight to South Vietnam and get ready for the next part of your journey.

Things to Do on Day 4 in Vietnam

• Wake up to stunning sunrise views over Ha Long Bay.
• Enjoy a light breakfast and brunch on the cruise while sailing back to the harbour.
• Head back to the Ha Long Bay pier and hop off the cruise.
• Transfer to Hanoi airport for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
• Arrive in HCMC, check into your hotel, and enjoy the rest of the day, relax, or explore.
• Take your first walk around the city centre, starting with Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
• Explore the Ben Thanh Night Market for some local food and shopping.

Also Read: Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know!

Day 5: Cu Chi Tunnels + War History & Local Culture

Discover the exciting culture and deep history of Ho Chi Minh City. Once known as Saigon, it is full of stories and energy.

Things to Do on Day 5 in Vietnam

• Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a large underground system used during the war, just a short trip from the city.
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City for a city tour.
• Go to the War Remnants Museum to discover about Vietnam’s past in a powerful and moving way.
• See the Reunification Palace, a significant historical landmark.
• Check out the beautiful old buildings like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office from the French colonial time.
• Wander through night markets and try tasty street food.
• Optional – enjoy a sunset boat ride on the Saigon River for a unique view of the city.
• Or take a motorbike tour to experience the city like a local.

Also Read: Cu Chi Tunnels: A Journey Through Vietnam’s Fascinating Underground World

Day 6: Mekong Delta Excursion + Floating Villages

Take a break from the city and head into the green, peaceful Mekong Delta. This region, called Vietnam’s Rice Bowl, is filled with waterways, swamps, and small islands. You will get a glimpse of daily life along the mighty Mekong River.

Things to Do on Day 6 in Vietnam

• Enjoy a scenic drive to the Mekong Delta.
• Ride a boat to see villages that float on the water and visit local fish farms.
• Stop by a small workshop to watch how locals make coconut candy and rice paper.
• Sit in a small boat paddled by hand and cruise through narrow canals lined with palm trees.
• Have a tasty local meal in a peaceful orchard setting.
• Try fresh tropical fruits picked straight from the trees.

Also Read: Cruising the Mekong Delta: A Guide to the Best River Cruises in Vietnam!

Day 7: Departure – Farewell to Vietnam

Enjoy your last morning in Vietnam, making special memories and leaving with a new love for this amazing country. If time allows before your flight, grab some last-minute souvenirs or snacks. Grab souvenirs, local coffee, or tailored clothing before heading to the airport for your flight home, filled with incredible memories.

Things to Do on Day 7 in Vietnam

• Enjoy a final Vietnamese breakfast.
• Go shopping at Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs, textiles, and local crafts.
• Explore modern shopping malls like Saigon Centre for branded goods.
• Relax at a café or spa.
• Transfer to the International Airport for your departure.
  

Also Read: A Complete Travel Guide To Hoi An – Vietnam’s Most Charming Town

Travel Tips for your first visit to Vietnam

Below are some quick tips for a smooth Vietnam trip from India.

• The local money is the Vietnamese dong, but US dollars are also accepted in tourist spots.
• ATMs are common in cities, but carry some cash for villages and street markets.
• Purchase a local SIM card at the airport for affordable and reliable data throughout your trip.
• Pack breathable, light, clothes for the tropical weather. Bring a light jacket for cool air-conditioned places and evenings.
• Most importantly, be open-minded and respect local customs. Vietnamese people like visitors who are really keen to learn about their history and traditions.
• Vietnam is generally safe, but keep an eye on your things in busy areas. 
• You do not have to tip, but it is nice to give a little extra to guides or drivers if you are happy with their service.
• Indian food is available in major cities like Hanoi, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh.
• Bargain politely while shopping at markets.
• Even though the internet is common, offline maps are useful in remote or low-signal areas.
• Stick to bottled or boiled water, tap water is not safe to drink.
• If renting a scooter, carry an international license and always wear a helmet.

In the End

Vietnam is more than just a place; it is a feeling. It is the thrill of discovering an ancient temple in a busy city. It is the peace of watching the sunset over the calm waters of Halong Bay. This 7-day trip to Vietnam offers you a window into the soul of a country that is ancient, modern, strong, and incredibly beautiful all at once.

From the culture of the North to the history of the South, you have experienced a story of a lifetime. The landscapes will stay in your mind, and the warmth of the people will stay in your heart. Your holiday to Vietnam does not have to be a dream. We will help you make it a reality. Explore our expertly crafted Vietnam tour packages and take the first stride towards a holiday you will never forget.

So, are you all set for your trip to Vietnam?

FAQ’s Regarding 7-Day Vietnam Itinerary

1. Do Indians need a visa for Vietnam in 2025?

Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to visit Vietnam in 2025. The easiest way to apply for an e-visa is through the official Vietnam Immigration portal before your departure. Always check the latest updates and rules from our expert Visa team. 

2. What is the ideal budget for a 7-day Vietnam trip from India?

Excluding international flights, a comfortable mid-range budget for this 7-day trip to Vietnam would be approximately ₹60,000 to ₹90,000 per person. This may vary based on hotel class, cruise type, and inclusions.

3. When is the best time to visit Halong Bay?

The best time to visit Halong Bay is from October to April when the weather is cool, dry, and perfect for cruises and sightseeing, ideal for Indian travellers. Avoid June to August due to rain and storms.

4. Which is better for Indian food – Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh?

Both cities have Indian restaurants. However, Ho Chi Minh City, being a larger and more cosmopolitan hub, generally offers a wider variety and a greater number of options for authentic Indian and vegetarian food.

5. Is Vietnam safe for families and solo travellers?

Vietnam is one of the safest places in Southeast Asia, even for families and solo women travellers. The people are friendly and helpful, and violent crime against tourists is rare. Just take standard precautions with your belongings.