There’s something undeniably magical about packing your bags, boarding a flight with your closest friends, and touching down in a land that seems pulled straight out of a dream. Our week-long Vietnam travel adventure was more than just a break—it was a whirlwind of scenic views, delicious food, laughter-filled nights, and moments we’ll never forget. If you’re planning a Vietnam tour with friends, this is everything you need to know—through our eyes.
Day 1: Hello, Vietnam – A Burst of Culture
We landed in Hanoi—sleep-deprived but buzzing with excitement. The chaotic beauty of the city instantly swept us in. Mopeds zigzagged past us like bees in a hive. The air smelled like grilled meats, herbs, and roasted coffee. Our hotel was a cozy little place nestled in the heart of the Old Quarter.
We spent the day strolling around Hoan Kiem Lake, tasting egg coffee, and getting lost in night markets full of lanterns, laughter, and street eats. The energy of Vietnam tourism is electric—every corner bursts with life, culture, and color.
Day 2: Ha Long Bay – Floating in a Dream
No Vietnam vacation is complete without visiting Ha Long Bay. We booked a full-day cruise with kayaking, cave exploration, and seafood lunch on board. Floating amidst those towering limestone islands felt unreal. The emerald green water reflected the sky like a mirror. We even jumped in for a swim!
There’s something about cruising through such majestic natural beauty with friends—sharing stories, taking silly pictures, and feeling grateful. It was our first taste of Vietnam’s natural wonders, and it set the tone for the rest of the trip.
Day 3: Ninh Binh – The Hidden Paradise
We didn’t want to follow every typical Vietnam tour route, so we made a spontaneous decision to head to Ninh Binh—and it turned out to be one of the best parts of our journey.
From the boat ride through Trang An’s caves to hiking up Hang Múa for a panoramic view of endless rice fields, Ninh Binh gave us a different side of Vietnam tourism—peaceful, untouched, and incredibly photogenic.
We cycled around the countryside with water buffalos nearby and friendly locals waving at us. No crowds, no rush—just pure serenity. It was Vietnam travel at its most authentic.
Day 4: Overnight Train to Da Nang – A Ride to Remember
We opted for an overnight train to Da Nang for the fun of it—and what a ride it was! Laughter, card games, midnight snacks, and conversations under dim train lights turned our cramped compartments into cozy little memory-makers.
Sure, the beds were small and the train shook like a roller coaster, but this was one of those moments we wouldn’t trade for anything. This part of our Vietnam vacation felt like a classic backpacker story come to life.
Day 5: Da Nang & Hoi An – Beaches & Lanterns
By morning, we arrived in Da Nang, grabbed breakfast by the beach, and immediately fell in love with the vibe. Chill beaches, smooth roads, and a laid-back atmosphere. We sunbathed, surfed, and swam till we had salt in our hair and smiles on our faces.
In the afternoon, we headed to Hoi An—and wow. As the sun set and the lanterns began to glow, the ancient town transformed into something magical. We released floating lanterns in the river and made wishes that only friends can understand without words.
The lantern-lit streets, traditional buildings, tailor shops, and riverside cafes gave us the perfect balance of culture and charm. It was a highlight of our Vietnam tour.
Day 6: Marble Mountains & Café Hopping
We wanted a mix of exploration and relaxation, so we rented scooters and rode up to Marble Mountains. The climb was worth it—temples inside caves, statues carved into rock, and panoramic views from the top.
By afternoon, it was back to Da Nang for café hopping. Vietnam’s coffee culture is one of the most underrated gems in Asia. We tried everything—coconut coffee, iced milk coffee, and strong black brews with condensed milk.
Later, we explored local markets and street food stalls—pho, banh mi, spring rolls, and desserts we still don’t know the names of, but they were delicious. Vietnam travel really is a foodie’s heaven.
Day 7: A Final Day in Ho Chi Minh City
We took a quick flight to Ho Chi Minh City for our final day. Compared to Hanoi, it’s more modern, more fast-paced—but equally fascinating. Skyscrapers stand tall beside colonial buildings, and every street corner has something unique going on.
We visited the Ben Thanh Market, wandered through local neighborhoods, and just enjoyed our last evening with Vietnamese BBQ and cold beers. As night fell and the city lights shimmered, we knew our Vietnam vacation had come full circle.
Tips for a Memorable Vietnam Tour with Friends
Here are a few things we learned that made our Vietnam tour smoother and way more fun:
Be spontaneous: The best moments weren’t planned. From last-minute train rides to surprise food finds, Vietnam travel rewards flexibility.
Eat local: Vietnam tourism thrives through its food culture. Street food is safe, cheap, and heavenly.
Move light, travel far: Pack smart and move around! From north to south, Vietnam’s diversity makes every region feel like a new adventure.
Use a Vietnam copyright early: Getting our travel documents sorted ahead of time made everything smoother. Whether you’re on a short break or a longer Vietnam tour, it’s a must.
Capture the moments: Don’t forget your cameras—but also know when to just soak it in. The best memories don’t always need a filter.
Until We Return Again...
There’s something special about sharing the chaos of crossing a busy street in Hanoi, the quiet awe of a Ha Long Bay sunrise, or the joy of a spicy bowl of pho after a long hike. Vietnam travel doesn’t just offer beauty—it offers connection.
Vietnam tourism welcomes you with warmth, color, and curiosity. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, dancing by the beach, or sipping a drink with your feet in the sand, this country gives you stories to tell for a lifetime.
For us, Vietnam wasn’t just a destination—it was a shared chapter. It deepened friendships, sparked laughter, and left us with stories we’ll be telling again and again.