45 Day Vietnam Itinerary

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How to spend the full 45 day tourist visa in Vietnam

Vietnam From North to South

Hanoi – 4 days

Hanoi is often the most affordable and convenient gateway into Vietnam. Making this your first stop allows you to get organized before heading into the rugged northern mountains. It’s the ultimate hub for pre-loop shopping, incredible street food, and specialty coffee. Between exploring world-class museums, you’ll find Hanoi is also the best place for high-quality beauty treatments and massages. For a full Hanoi itinerary, click right here.

Sapa – 3 days

Skip the touristy Cat Cat Village and hop on an overnight VIP cabin bus from Hanoi. For those iconic rice terrace views and authentic homestays, trek toward Ta Van or Nam Cang instead. Arriving early via the sleeper bus means you can jump straight into a trek or spend your first morning unwinding at one of Sapa’s famous herbal spas. I recommend 3 days and 2 nights before catching the overnight bus to Ha Giang. Check out my full Sapa itinerary right here.

Ha Giang Loop – 4 days

This was easily the highlight of my entire trip, it’s an absolute “must-do.” While 3-day tours exist, I promise you’ll want the full 4-day experience. As a solo traveler in my mid-twenties, I chose Bong because I wanted a group that was fun, close to my age, and balanced partying with the actual scenery. It was the perfect choice.. For more information on what to pack and bring with you, click here! 

Cat Ba – 3 days

While I personally opted for an overnight cruise through Lan Ha Bay, looking back, I wish I had stayed on Cat Ba Island instead. Cruises can feel a bit rushed, but by basing yourself on the island and booking a day tour, you can enjoy the stunning bay on your own schedule. It’s also the perfect place to decompress after the adrenaline rush of the Ha Giang Loop.

Ninh Binh – 3 days

A comfortable van ride from Cat Ba brings you to Ninh Binh. The north of Vietnam truly stole my heart, and this “magical little city” was my favorite stop. It’s a place that forces you to slow down. My best advice? Book a homestay in Tam Coc (many offer free bike rentals) and spend your days cycling through the limestone karsts. With so much more to do and see in Ninh Binh, click here for a full itinerary!

Phong Nha – 4 days

Though I didn’t make it to Phong Nha myself, it’s the one place I regret missing. Known for having some of the world’s largest and most spectacular caves, it offers a truly authentic glimpse of Vietnam’s raw beauty. If you can fit it in, the feedback from fellow travelers is always glowing.

Da Nang – 4 days
Take a VIP sleeper bus from Phong Nha to Da Nang, a vibrant coastal city that feels like the “South Beach Miami” of Vietnam. It’s a hub for health, wellness, surfing, and yoga, but it also boasts a high-energy nightlife and great shopping. You also don’t want to miss a day trip to Ba Na Hills to see the famous Golden Bridge and ride the longest gondola in Asia. Da Nang is a city I find you can make feel 
 
Hoi Ann – 4 days
Just a short hop from Da Nang is the charming town of Hoi An, world-renowned for its custom tailoring and leather goods. I would suggest splitting your time by spending half your stay in the historic Old Town and the other half by the beach. This gives you plenty of time for fittings, adjustments, exploring the lantern-lit streets, and relaxing. Click here for the complete Hoi An guide!
 
Ho Chi Minh – 3 days
Commonly known as Saigon, this is Vietnam’s second-largest city and my personal favorite for shopping. It’s chaotic, big, and incredibly fun. Saigon excels at streetwear, hidden “apartment” cafes, and a legendary nightlife scene. For history buffs, the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels are essential staples. For all things on Saigon, click here for more.
 
Mui Ne – 3 days
Mui Ne is a laid-back coastal town that feels like a quieter, smaller version of Da Nang. The famous sand dunes are a non-negotiable experience, but you can also fill your days with kitesurfing and beach lounging. While you could do this in a single night, staying for two nights allows you to truly soak in the slow pace. Here is everything I did in Mui Ne
 
Phu Quoc – 7 days

Last but not least is Phu Quoc, an island paradise off the southern coast. I almost skipped this, but I am so glad I didn’t, I even ended up extending my stay to a full week! It’s a large island, so I recommend renting a scooter and splitting your time between the North, South, and the central areas to see it all. There is plenty to do, so for a full itinerary click here.