Planning a Two-Week Vietnam Itinerary for Couples

Focus on a North-to-South route to minimize travel fatigue, using internal flights to skip long bus rides. Allocate 3-4 days each for Hanoi, Hoi An, and Saigon to balance sightseeing with downtime for romantic meals.

  1. Secure your e-visa. Apply for the Vietnam e-visa via the official government portal at least 14 days before your flight. It costs $25 and is valid for 90 days.
  2. Book internal flights. Use Vietnam Airlines or Bamboo Airways for the Hanoi-to-Da Nang and Da Nang-to-Saigon legs. These cost roughly $50–$70 per person and save you 15+ hours of travel time compared to trains.
  3. Choose your accommodation style. Mix boutique hotels in cities for comfort with homestays in rural areas for local culture. Book your stays at least 4 weeks out if traveling during the Lunar New Year or dry season.
  4. Install essential apps. Download Grab for transport (it works like Uber) and Google Maps for offline navigation. Get an eSIM like Airalo to ensure you have data as soon as you land.
Is it easy to get around Vietnam as a couple?
Yes. Grab is ubiquitous, safe, and transparent with pricing. Avoid street taxis; always use the app.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Medical care for tourists can be expensive, and road accidents are common in high-traffic cities.