Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days from India: What to See, Do & Budget For

Planning a trip to Vietnam can feel both exciting and a little overwhelming. The country has so much to offer, like busy cities, peaceful beaches, towering mountains, mysterious caves, and a culture that feels both familiar and new. A week-long journey gives you a taste of it all without rushing.

This 7-day Vietnam itinerary from India is designed for travelers who want a mix of highlights and hidden gems. You will walk through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, cruise the rivers of Ninh Binh, step inside the magical caves of Phong Nha, and end with the energy of Ho Chi Minh City. It’s the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

The best part? Vietnam is budget-friendly. Compared to many international trips, it’s affordable and easy to plan if you know what to expect. From flights and food to local transport and activities, we will cover everything. By the end, you will have a clear day-by-day plan and an idea of what it will cost.

Table of Contents

• Day 1 – Arrival in Hanoi
• Day 2 – Hanoi to Ninh Binh
• Day 3 – Travel to Phong Nha & Explore
• Day 4 – Adventure in Phong Nha
• Day 5 – Fly to Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 6 – Mekong Delta Tour
• Day 7 – Cu Chi Tunnels & Departure
• Final Verdict
• FAQs

Day 1 – Arrival in Hanoi

Your trip begins in Hanoi, Vietnam’s lively capital. Once you arrive, check into your hotel and spend the day soaking up the city’s charm. Wander through the Old Quarter, take a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, and end the evening with traditional Vietnamese food.

• Hanoi Old Quarter – Explore narrow lanes filled with colonial buildings, street vendors, and buzzing cafes on foot. It’s the city’s soul, alive from morning to midnight.

• Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple – A calm spot in the middle of the city. The iconic red bridge leads to a small temple, and the atmosphere feels peaceful compared to the busy streets around.

• Water Puppet Show – In the evening, catch the famous Thang Long Water Puppet Show. This traditional performance tells old Vietnamese stories through puppets that dance on water. Show tickets range from ₹400 to ₹900 for standard or deluxe tickets.

Day 2 – Hanoi to Ninh Binh

Just two hours from Hanoi lies Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land.” It’s less crowded, but the landscapes are just as stunning, from rivers winding through limestone mountains to quiet villages, and rice paddies as far as you can see. 

• Tam Coc Boat Ride – Glide along the river in a small sampan boat, passing caves and cliffs. Farmers working in the fields make the scene feel timeless. A full-day Ninh Binh Tour, including the Tam Coc boat ride, typically costs between ₹2,000 and ₹5,000 per person, though prices vary based on the operator, group size, and inclusions like bike tours and meals. 

• Cycling Around Rice Fields – Rent a bike and explore small villages and lotus ponds. It’s a slow and beautiful way to see rural Vietnam. Cycling tours in Ninh Binh, Vietnam, vary in price, but you can expect a day trip to range from ₹1,500 to ₹3,500 per person, depending on the operator, inclusions like meals and transportation from Hanoi, and the specific attractions visited. 

• Hang Mua Viewpoint – A short but steep climb up 500 steps rewards you with the best view of Ninh Binh, a sea of rivers and mountains stretching endlessly. The Hang Mua Viewpoint entrance fee is 100,000 VND (₹350).

Day 3 – Travel to Phong Nha & Explore

Take an overnight train or bus to Phong Nha, home to some of the largest caves in the world. This UNESCO-listed site is a dream for nature lovers. On your first day, explore two of its most famous caves and relax in the village afterward.

• Paradise Cave – Known as the “underground palace,” this cave is filled with towering stalactites and formations that look like sculptures made by nature. The entrance fee for Paradise Cave is 250,000-270,000 VND (₹860-930) per adult.

• Phong Nha Cave by Boat – A quiet boat ride along the Son River takes you deep into the cave, where the rock formations glow under soft lights. For the Phong Nha Cave by boat experience, you can expect to pay around 550,000 VND per boat (₹1,800 - ₹1,900)

• Phong Nha Village – End the day in the village, where homestays and eco-lodges serve simple and delicious home-cooked meals. It is peaceful, with views of the mountains.

Day 4 – Adventure in Phong Nha

If you are up for adventure, Phong Nha is a perfect spot. This day is all about trying some fun adventure activities.

• Dark Cave Adventure – Zip-line across the river, swim, and then wade into the mud baths inside the cave. It’s messy, exciting, and unforgettable. The Dark Cave (Hang Toi) entrance ticket, which includes the zipline, kayak, and mud bath, costs approximately VND 450,000 (around ₹1,500 INR) per adult.

• Eco Tours & Nature Walks – Explore the jungles of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, which is home to diverse plants and wildlife. Entry to the national park is free.

• Local Food & Coffee – After the day’s adventure, try central Vietnamese dishes like banh xeo (crispy pancakes) or a strong Vietnamese drip coffee in local shops.

Day 5 – Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

From Dong Hoi (near Phong Nha), take a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). The city feels completely different, modern, energetic, and full of history.

• Ben Thanh Market – A great place for shopping for you and your loved ones like local crafts, spices, clothes, and souvenirs. You can also do bargaining.

• War Remnants Museum – A powerful museum that shares Vietnam’s wartime past through photos and exhibits. It’s emotional but important. The adult entry price for the War Remnants Museum in Vietnam is 40,000 VND (₹140), while children aged 6-15 pay 20,000 VND (₹70). Admission is free for children under 6.

• Rooftop Bars & Nightlife – End the day with breathtaking city views from a rooftop bar or dive into the buzzing nightlife scene in Vietnam.

Day 6 – Mekong Delta Tour

Take a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta, where life moves at a slower pace along winding rivers.

• Boat Ride Through Canals – Cruise along narrow waterways lined with stilt houses and palm trees. A basic day trip for one person can start at around ₹2,117 for a small group tour, while a full-day private luxury tour or a multi-day cruise will be much more expensive, ranging from ₹12,000 to over ₹30,000. 

• Floating Markets – Visit Cai Be or Cai Rang floating markets, where boats sell fruits, snacks, and local goods. It’s colorful and lively. Prices for tours to Cai Be or Cai Rang floating markets in Vietnam vary widely, from approximately ₹1,500 for a basic day tour to over ₹20,000 for private or multi-day luxury tours.

• Local Villages & Orchards – Stop at small villages to taste tropical fruits and watch locals making coconut candy or rice paper.

Day 7 – Cu Chi Tunnels & Departure

On your final day, explore one of Vietnam’s most historic sites before flying back.

• Cu Chi Tunnels – A vast underground network used during the Vietnam War. Crawling through the narrow tunnels shows the life of Vietnamese soldiers. The entrance fee for the Cu Chi Tunnels is around VND 90 (₹290).

• Local Lunch & Coffee – Before leaving, enjoy a last Vietnamese meal like pho, banh mi, or fresh spring rolls paired with strong iced coffee in a local cafe.

• Fly Back to India – Depending on your flight, you may have a little extra time to shop.

Take the road less travelled in Vietnam. See the full 7-day itinerary here: Vietnam Offbeat Tour Package.

Final Verdict

A 7-day Vietnam trip from India is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. You’ll see Hanoi’s charm, the calm beauty of Ninh Binh, the magic of Phong Nha caves, and the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, all without rushing.

The trip is also budget-friendly and easy to plan, with direct flights and simple visa options. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this itinerary works well for everyone.

What makes it special is the balance of famous highlights mixed with hidden corners, busy cities paired with peaceful countryside. It’s not just about sightseeing but about experiencing Vietnam’s culture, food, and people.

If you have been dreaming of a short but memorable international trip, this 7-day Vietnam itinerary is a great choice. With the right planning, it’s a journey you’ll always look back on fondly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I budget for a 7-day trip to Vietnam?

If you are planning a 7-day Vietnam trip from India, your budget can vary a lot depending on how you like to travel. On the lower side, a budget-friendly trip can be done for about ₹35,000-₹50,000 per person. If you prefer a bit more comfort or even luxury, you can expect to spend anywhere between ₹60,000 and ₹1,50,000 (or higher) for the week.

How many days are sufficient for Vietnam from India?

Spending about 7–10 days in Vietnam is sufficient to see the main highlights without feeling like you’re rushing around. You can choose how much time to give places like Hanoi and Halong Bay, or even stretch your trip to explore central Vietnam. This timeframe gives you a nice mix of both nature and culture.

Which month is best to visit Vietnam?

The best time to plan a Vietnam trip is in March, April, or October. During these months, the weather is pleasant across most parts of the country, with comfortable temperatures and less rain, which is perfect for sightseeing and exploring. The busiest travel season is from November to April, when the weather stays dry and enjoyable.

What is the cheapest month to go to Vietnam?

If you are looking to save money, the cheapest time to visit Vietnam is usually between May and September. This is the low season since the weather is hotter and rainier, especially in the south. The upside is that flights and hotels are often much cheaper during these months.