Curator’s statement
Now that Vietnam has once again opened up to travelers, there is no better time to explore this rich and vibrant country. Roughly the size of Italy, this Southeast Asian country is known for its incredible food (birthplace of banh mi and pho,) beautiful pristine beaches, rivers and green lush mountains. Incredibly diverse from the north to the south, you can be surrounded by ancient rice paddies and majestic mountains in the morning, take a quick flight south and be on some of the most pristine and unspoiled beaches by the afternoon. This itinerary for a seven day trip, however, extra days can be added in for a full 10 day trip if desired. The shape of the country is like a long narrow S curving down, so internal flights are usually the best way to get from point A to point B. However, this specific itinerary takes advantage of a luxury train from Da Nang to Quy Nhon, so there is only 1 internal flight needed to maximize the best use of your time when you’re there.
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Day 1: Hoi An
Land in Da Nang, in the center of Vietnam. From here, make your way to Hoi An, an UNESCO World Heritage that Travel + Leisure declared the “best city in the world” in 2019. Anthony Bourdain has professed his love for this quaint beautiful riverside town and it’s not hard to see why. Beautiful quaint yellow buildings line the streets, and everywhere, there was gorgeous bright lanterns hanging. If you prefer to be in the heart of the old town, I suggest Anantara Hoi An, on the banks of the Thu Bon River and a quick 5 min walk to old town Hoi An. For a beach stay, there’s no better place than the Four Seasons Hoi An. Grab dinner at Morning Glory, one of the most famous and best restaurants in Hoi An, and take in all the local delights.
Day 2: Try Local Bahn Mi
Explore the old town of Hoi An on foot, get lost wandering the streets and for lunch, grab a Banh Mi. The birthplace of Banh Mi, going to at least one of the two famous Banh Mi places is a must. Take your pick between Madam Khanh - The Banh Mi Queen and Banh Mi Phuong. For a wonderful way to explore the surrounding areas of Hoi An, take a tour with Vespa Adventures, learn about the art of coffee roasting and see first hand how to make rice crackers. For dinner, try White Rose, home of the famous Hoi An White Rose Dumplings. Take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River, light a candle and make a wish.
Optional Day - stay another night in Hoi An, and take a day trip to Hue.
Day 3: Vietage Train from Da Nang to Quy Nhon
Wake up early to catch the Vietage train from Da Nang to Quy Nhon. This is an exclusive luxury train car that was initially dedicated to guests traveling between Anantara Hoi An and Anantara Quy Nhon, but now is open to book for everyone. You must book early, there are only 12 seats on this luxury train car, as well as a full bar, restroom and a private room for massages. For the next 6 hours, take in the beautiful Vietnam countryside white you enjoy an amazing 3-course meal and an open bar.
Day 4: Stay at Zannier Bai San Ho
Wake up to the sunrise at Zannier Bai San Ho and enjoy a wonderful and relaxing day at the resort. I kid you not when I say this is one of the most breathtaking resorts I have ever been to in my life and I've been privileged to stay at some incredible places. On a secluded bay in the Phu Yen Province, this resort encompasses 245 acres, with just 73 private villas. The aesthetics and design have been spared no expense, and this is truly one of the most luxurious barefoot eco-chic resorts I've seen. Spend a morning on the pristine and undisturbed beach, have a leisurely lunch and spend the afternoon lazying away in your private pool. Take a hike around the massive property, or sign up for a cooking class.
Day 5: Arrive in Hanoi
Take a flight from Quy Nhon to Hanoi. Check in to Sofitel Metropole or the Intercontinental Landmark72 after landing in Hanoi. Before dinner, enjoy a cocktail at the Metropole hotel. A hotel with a storied past that opened in 1901, past visitors have included Charlie Chaplin (on his honeymoon), Roberto Di Nero and Bill Clinton to name a few.
Day 6: Explore Hanoi
Explore the rich and vibrant sites of Hanoi, from visiting Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, checking out Saint Joseph’s Cathedral or wander and get lost in the Old Quarter, to strolling around Hoan Kiem park, watching the locals play soccer and listening to the live music playing. This is a city that is full of life and culture.
Day 7: Halong Bay
Take a side trip to Halong Bay and stay overnight in a luxury junk boat. In emerald green waters in the Gulf of Tonkin, with over 750 rock formations jutting out of the water, watch the sunset and wake up to the sunrise over UNESCO World Heritage Halong Bay. Leisurely cruise along, go kayaking, explore the caves and enjoy life on the waters for 24 hours.
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Anny Chen
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Vietnam.