How much does a 16-day trip to Vietnam cost?
A 16-day trip to Vietnam can cost anywhere from $1,280 to $4,000 depending on your travel style. Budget travelers can get by on $50 per day, while those seeking a more comfortable experience can expect to spend $80-$250 daily. Prices can also fluctuate due to domestic airfare variations.
Is 16 days enough time to see everything in Vietnam?
No, 16 days is not enough time to "see everything" in Vietnam. Vietnam is a diverse country with a rich history, culture, and geography, offering a variety of experiences from bustling cities and ancient towns to stunning natural landscapes and unique activities. It is impossible to see everything in Vietnam in 16 days, but you can still have a wonderful trip that covers some of the most popular and amazing places. Depending on your interests and preferences, you can choose from different itineraries that suit your needs. For example, you can follow a Vietnam highlights itinerary that includes Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Hue, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City
While 16 days is a good amount of time to experience some of the highlights and have a memorable trip,
What is the best itinerary for a 16-day trip to Vietnam?
Unfortunately, we cannot recommend a single "best" route for a 16-day trip to Vietnam, as it depends entirely on your interests and preferences. However, we can offer some highly-rated itineraries from our customers that cater to different travel styles:
We encourage you to explore these options and tailor them to your own interests to create the perfect 16-day Vietnamese adventure!
What are the best things to do in Vietnam in 16 days?
A 16-day itinerary in Vietnam offers a diverse range of experiences.
Start in Hanoi to explore its rich history, indulge in street food, and visit the iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Cruise the breathtaking Halong Bay, then head to Sapa for mountain trekking and vibrant local markets. Explore the imperial city of Hue, ancient town Hoi An, and the bustling city of Da Nang.
Discover the Mekong Delta's lush landscapes, venture to Ho Chi Minh City for history and culture, and relax in the scenic beaches of Phu Quoc. This comprehensive journey captures Vietnam's beauty, history, and diverse landscapes.
Is it possible to see both north and south Vietnam in 16 days?
Yes, it is possible to see both north and south Vietnam in 16 days, but you will have to plan your itinerary carefully and prioritize the places you want to visit. Vietnam is a long and narrow country, stretching over 1600 km from north to south, and it has a lot of diverse and beautiful destinations to offer. Depending on your preferences, budget, and travel style, you can choose to travel by plane, train, bus, or motorbike between different regions.
Can I include a beach vacation in my 16-day Vietnam itinerary?
Absolutely! Vietnam boasts a stunning coastline with a variety of beaches to suit different interests, so incorporating a beach vacation into your 16-day itinerary is definitely a good idea. Here are some of the most popular beach destinations in Vietnam to consider:
- Phu Quoc Island: This island paradise is located off the coast of Cambodia and is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and lush jungles. You can find everything from budget-friendly bungalows to luxurious resorts on Phu Quoc.
- Nha Trang: This coastal city is a popular beach resort town with a long stretch of white sand beach. Nha Trang offers a variety of water sports activities, as well as scuba diving and snorkeling.
- Hoi An: This charming town is not only known for its historic center, but also for its nearby beaches. An Bang Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
- Mui Ne: This fishing village has become a popular beach destination in recent years. Mui Ne is known for its red sand dunes, which are a popular spot for sandboarding and off-road vehicle tours.
- Con Dao Islands: This archipelago is located off the coast of southern Vietnam and is known for its pristine beaches and untouched natural beauty. The Con Dao Islands are a great option for travelers looking for a more off-the-beaten-path beach experience.
Is it easy to get vegetarian food in Vietnam?
Yes, it is quite easy to get vegetarian food in Vietnam, as the country has a rich and diverse vegetarian cuisine. There are many reasons for this, such as the influence of Buddhism, the abundance of fresh vegetables and herbs, and the popularity of meat-free days among the locals.
You can find many vegetarian restaurants and dishes in Vietnam, especially near the pagodas and temples, or on the 1st and 15th of each lunar month. You can also ask for vegetarian versions of regular dishes by using the word 'chay', which means 'vegetarian' in Vietnamese. Some of the common vegetarian dishes in Vietnam are vegetarian spring rolls, tofu in tomato sauce, water spinach with garlic, and fried rice with vegetables
Is 16 days enough time to see Ha Long Bay, Sapa, and Hoi An?
What are the best things to do in Vietnam for 16 days for adventure travelers?
Vietnam is a great destination for adventure travelers, as it offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, such as trekking, biking, kayaking, caving, and more. Here are some of the best things to do in Vietnam for 16 days for adventure travelers:
- Explore the world's biggest caves in Phong Nha: Phong Nha is home to the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, which contains some of the largest and most spectacular caves in the world, such as Son Doong, Hang En, Paradise Cave, and Dark Cave. You can join a tour to explore these caves, which range from easy to challenging, and experience the stunning scenery, wildlife, and adventure inside them.
- Check out Vietnam on a motorbike: One of the best ways to see Vietnam is on a motorbike, which gives you the freedom and flexibility to travel at your own pace and discover the hidden gems of the country. You can rent a motorbike and follow a popular route, such as the Ho Chi Minh Trail or the Ha Giang Loop, or create your own itinerary based on your interests and preferences. You will encounter amazing landscapes, friendly locals, and authentic culture along the way.
- Go trekking or biking in Sapa: Sapa is a mountainous town in northern Vietnam, famous for its terraced rice fields, ethnic minorities, and stunning views. You can go trekking or biking in Sapa, and visit some of the villages, markets, and waterfalls in the area. You can also climb the highest mountain in Indochina, Fansipan, which offers a challenging and rewarding experience.
- Go canyoning in Dalat: Dalat is a charming city in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, known for its cool climate, colonial architecture, and natural attractions. You can go canyoning in Dalat, which is a thrilling activity that involves abseiling, sliding, jumping, and swimming through waterfalls, cliffs, and gorges. You will need a guide and some equipment, but no previous experience is required.
- Go scuba diving in Nha Trang: Nha Trang is a coastal city in southern Vietnam, famous for its beaches, islands, and nightlife. You can go scuba diving in Nha Trang, and explore the underwater world of the Nha Trang Bay, which has more than 350 species of coral and fish. You can also visit some of the nearby islands, such as Hon Mun, Hon Tam, and Hon Tre, which offer more diving sites and activities .
These are just some of the best things to do in Vietnam for 16 days for adventure travelers. You can also customize your own itinerary based on your preferences and budget.
What are the best places to relax on the beach in Vietnam?
Here are some of the best places to relax on the beach in Vietnam:
- Phu Quoc Island: This is the largest island in Vietnam and offers a variety of beaches to choose from, from the popular Long Beach to the more secluded beaches in the north.
- Con Dao Islands: This archipelago is located off the coast of southern Vietnam and is known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and historical significance.
- Nam Du Island: This island is located off the coast of Kien Giang province and is known for its off-the-beaten-path atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and seafood.
- Cat Ba Island: This island is located in Ha Long Bay and is known for its stunning scenery, limestone cliffs, and national park.
- Nha Trang: This coastal city is known for its long stretch of beach, which is lined with resorts, hotels, and restaurants. Nha Trang is a great option for travelers who want to enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, diving, and snorkeling
- Hoi An: This charming town is located on the central coast of Vietnam and is known for its beautiful beaches, historic Old Town, and tailor shops. Hoi An is a great option for travelers who want to relax on the beach and explore a bit of Vietnamese culture.
- Quy Nhon: This city is located on the south-central coast of Vietnam and is known for its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and friendly locals.
Can I do any trekking in Vietnam on a 16-day trip?
Yes, you can do some amazing trekking in Vietnam on a 16-day trip. Vietnam has many beautiful and diverse trekking destinations, such as Sapa, Ha Giang, Phong Nha, Dalat, and Nha Trang. You can choose from different levels of difficulty, duration, and scenery, depending on your preferences and abilities. You can also combine trekking with other activities, such as cultural immersion, community service, or adventure sports.
You can follow one of the suggested itineraries, such as this one https://vietnamtour.com/vietnam-tours/adventures/biking-trekking-snorkeling-9-days.html or this one https://vietnamtour.com/vietnam-tours/adventures/sapa-trekking-tour-4-days.html, which cover some of the best trekking trails in Vietnam. You can also customize your own itinerary based on your interests and budget. Vietnam has so much to offer, and you will surely have a wonderful and memorable trip.
Is Vietnam a good destination for solo travelers?
Yes, Vietnam is a good destination for solo travelers, as it is a safe, friendly, and diverse country that offers many attractions and activities for different interests and budgets. You can follow an established tourist trail that covers the main cities, historical sites, and natural wonders of Vietnam, or you can venture off the beaten path and discover some of the hidden gems of the country. You can also choose to travel independently or join a small group tour, depending on your preferences and comfort level.
Is Vietnam a good destination for families with children?
Vietnam is a great destination for families with children, as it offers many attractions and activities that are suitable for different ages and interests. Some of the best things to do in Vietnam with kids are:
- Lantern making in Hoi An: Hoi An is a charming town famous for its colorful lanterns. You can join a workshop and learn how to make your own lantern from bamboo and silk. This is a fun and creative activity that kids will love. You can also enjoy the lantern festival that takes place every full moon night, when the town is lit up by thousands of lanterns floating on the river.
- Snorkeling and kayaking in Nha Trang: Nha Trang is a popular beach destination that has clear water and coral reefs. You can go snorkeling and kayaking with your kids and explore the marine life and the islands. You can also visit the Vinpearl Land amusement park, which has a water park, a zoo, a cinema, and a cable car.
- Cooking class in Ho Chi Minh City: Ho Chi Minh City is the largest and most dynamic city in Vietnam, with a rich history and culture. You can take a cooking class with your kids and learn how to make some of the delicious and healthy dishes of Vietnamese cuisine, such as spring rolls, pho, and banh mi. You can also visit the markets and buy fresh ingredients, and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
- Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels: These underground tunnels were used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. You can crawl through the tunnels and learn about the history of the war.
- Go hiking in Sapa: This town in northern Vietnam is located in the Hoang Lien Son mountains and is a great place for hiking and trekking. You can hike through rice terraces, visit traditional villages of the Hmong and Dao ethnic groups, and conquer the summit of Fansipan, the highest mountain in Vietnam.
- Visit a water puppet show: This traditional Vietnamese art form is a fun and unique way to learn about Vietnamese culture. Kids will be mesmerized by the colorful puppets and the accompanying music.
How much should I tip in Vietnam?
Tipping in Vietnam is not very common, but it is appreciated by the service providers. The amount of tip you should give depends on the type of service and the quality of service. Here are some general guidelines for tipping in Vietnam:
- Restaurants: You can tip around 10% of the bill for good service, or nothing if you are not satisfied. Some high-end restaurants may add a service charge of 5-10% to your bill, in which case you do not need to tip extra.
- Hotels: You can tip the bellboy or porter around 20,000 VND (about 1 USD) per bag, and the housekeeper around 50,000 VND (about 2 USD) per day. You can also tip the concierge or receptionist if they have been very helpful.
- Tour guides and drivers: You can tip your tour guide around 200,000 to 500,000 VND (about 10 to 20 USD) per day, per person, depending on the length and quality of the tour. You can tip your driver around 50,000 to 100,000 VND (about 2 to 5 USD) per day, per person.
- Taxi drivers: You can round up the fare or tip around 5% for a taxi ride, especially if the driver has been honest and helpful.
- Spa and massage: You can tip around 10% for a spa or massage service, or more if you are very satisfied.
Tipping in Vietnam is not mandatory, but it is a nice gesture to show your appreciation for the service. You can tip in cash, preferably in Vietnamese Dong, and hand it directly to the person you want to tip.