Vietnam Backpacking Guide: From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating travel destinations — rich in culture, full of natural beauty, and incredibly budget-friendly. Whether you’re chasing misty mountains, ancient temples, or tropical beaches, Vietnam delivers a perfect mix of adventure and comfort.

If you’re planning a trip from 25 November to 10 December, you’ve picked the perfect time. The north is cool and crisp, central Vietnam is clear and bright, and the south is warm and sunny. This 15-day guide will take you through Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Da Nang, Ba Na Hills, Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and the Mekong Delta, with direct affiliate links to the best tools for booking accommodation, transport, and experiences.

Hanoi — The Heart of Northern Vietnam

Duration: 3 Days (Nov 25–27)

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is an intoxicating mix of French colonial charm, vibrant street life, and modern buzz. The Old Quarter is a sensory overload — scooters, steaming pho, and endless coffee corners.

Top Things to Do in Hanoi

  • Visit the Old Quarter for street food like Bun Cha and Egg Coffee.
  • Explore Hoan Kiem Lake and the Ngoc Son Temple.
  • Catch a Water Puppet Show near the lake.
  • Tour Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and the Train Street.
  • Book a Street Food Tour or City Walking Tour via Klook

Recommended on Klook:

Where to Stay


Ninh Binh — Vietnam’s “Halong Bay on Land”

Duration: 2 Days (Nov 28–29) Just two hours south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh is a peaceful escape of limestone cliffs, rivers, and ancient temples. It’s often called “Halong Bay on Land” for a reason — the karst scenery is breathtaking.

Getting There

Book your transfer from Hanoi to Ninh Binh easily through 12Go Asia

Top Things to Do

  • Take a Tam Coc or Trang An boat ride — serene and cinematic.
  • Hike Mua Cave Viewpoint for the best panoramic shot.
  • Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of Southeast Asia’s largest temples.
  • Cycle through rice paddies and small villages.

You can book your Trang An boat tour via Klook or Hoa Lu–Mua Cave day trip via Getyourguide

Where to Stay

  • Budget (Booking.com): Tam Coc Guest House & Hostel — local family vibe, free bikes.

  • Mid-range (Agoda): Tam Coc Garden Resort — eco-luxury in rice paddies.

  • Premium (Booking.com): Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel — pool, views, and comfort.

Tip: Try booking a stay in Tam Coc instead of Ninh Binh city for scenic surroundings.

Da Nang — Beaches, Bridges, and Ba Na Hills

Duration: 3 Days (Nov 30–Dec 2)

Da Nang is Vietnam’s modern seaside gem — known for its clean beaches, stunning bridges, and easy access to Ba Na Hills and Hoi An.

Getting There

From Ninh Binh, take an overnight train to Da Nang via 12Go Asia

Top Things to Do in Da Nang

  • Chill at My Khe Beach or Non Nuoc Beach.
  • Visit the Marble Mountains.
  • Walk the Dragon Bridge at night when it breathes fire (weekends!).
  • Take a day trip to Ba Na Hills — home to the famous Golden Bridge.

Must-book experience:

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) — The City That Never Sleeps

Duration: 3 Days (Dec 3–5)

Bustling, energetic, and full of character — Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s commercial heartbeat and nightlife capital.

Getting There

Book a flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City on Trip.com

Top Things to Do

  • Visit Ben Thanh Market and Notre Dame Cathedral.
  • Explore War Remnants Museum — sobering but essential.
  • Sip coffee at Nguyen Hue Walking Street cafes.
  • Experience rooftop bars like Chill Sky Bar or EON 51.

Where to Stay

  • Budget (Hostelworld): The Hideout Hostel — backpacker classic, social vibe.
  • Mid-range (Agoda): Silverland Yen Hotel — great spa and location.
  • Premium (Booking.com): The Reverie Saigon — ultimate luxury in District 1.

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