15 days in Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary

The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi has bounded back from the effects of war, and today serves as a bustling commercial and cultural hub bursting at the seams.

On the 10th (Mon), spend a fun day on foot with Walking tours. Spend the 14th (Fri) wandering through the wild on a nature and wildlife tour. Next up on the itinerary: get to know the fascinating history of Old Quarter, indulge in some culinary diversions at a local gastronomic tour, steep yourself in history at Hoa Lo Prison, and explore the activities along Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake).

For ratings, other places to visit, where to stay, and more tourist information, use the Hanoi road trip planning app.

Melbourne, Australia to Hanoi is an approximately 15-hour flight. The time zone difference when traveling from Melbourne to Hanoi is minus 3 hours. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 15th (Sat) so you can catch the flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Formerly known in the West as Saigon and affectionately referred to as the "Pearl of the Far East," Ho Chi Minh City is a study of old and new, woven and piled together in a fast-paced urban hub.

On the 21st (Fri), spend an adventurous day with a kayaking and canoeing tour. There's still lots to do: make a trip to Cu Chi Tunnels, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, get the lay of the land with Walking tours, and ponder the world of politics at Central Post Office.

To see traveler tips, where to stay, other places to visit, and other tourist information, you can read our Ho Chi Minh City online trip itinerary maker.

Fly from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a train. In October, plan for daily highs up to 38°C, and evening lows to 28°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 22nd (Sat) so you can catch the flight back home.