Vietnam Travel Itinerary: 1 day – Best plan

Best designed Vietnam Travel Itinerary (1 day) for travelers who are planning their trip to Vietnam. If you only have 1 day in VIetnam, this travel guide, which is written with the insights of both experienced travelers & locals, will guide you what are best to do in such short period of time.
Vietnam Travel Itinerary - 1 day

Table of Contents

1. Understanding your 1 day trip in Vietnam

1.1. The problem of having only 1 day in Vietnam

Having only one day in Vietnam can be quite challenging, as it’s a country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and diverse culinary traditions. Even a part of one city in Vietnam has many things to explore, which makes crafting your Vietnam Travel Itinerary for a day even harder. However, we believe that you don’t want that too. Sometimes travelers only have 01 days in Vietnam for these reasons:

  1. Transit Stop: Some travelers may have a long layover in one of Vietnam’s major international airports, such as Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport) or Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport). In such cases, they may choose to explore the city briefly during their layover.

  2. Business Trips: Business travelers may have a tight schedule that allows for little leisure time. They might have just one day to conduct meetings or attend conferences in Vietnam before returning home.

  3. Limited Vacation Time: For travelers with limited vacation days, it can be challenging to fully explore a country as diverse as Vietnam. In such cases, they might opt for a quick visit to get a glimpse of the country’s culture and attractions.

  4. Bucket List or Checkmark Tourism: Some travelers have a goal of visiting as many countries as possible and might include Vietnam as a stop on their itinerary, even if it’s just for a day, to check it off their list.

  5. Cruise Ship Stops: Vietnam is a popular destination for cruise ships, and passengers on a cruise may have only one day to explore a specific port city, such as Da Nang or Nha Trang.

But don’t worry, whatever the reasons, AN Tours Vietnam will help you to come up with the best Vietnam Travel Itinerary so that you can enjoy the best of Vietnam even for only 1 day.

1.2. Top things to consider before getting your Vietnam Travel Itinerary for only 1 day done

Before we go on and craft a great Vietnam Travel Itinerary for you to spend your 1 day in Vietnam, there are some factors that you must consider. After understanding all these things, you can easily decide what are best things to do in Vietnam for only 1 day. Here is the list:

  1. Choose Your Destination: If you are locked to fly in a city in Vietnam, that will be simple. Or else, it is best to select a popular city to visit for your 1-day trip (as mentioned in our core blog Vietnam Travel Itinerary: Top #1 Guide You Must Read), as your trip is very short. Popular choices include Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hoi An. Your choice will depend on your arrival point and personal interests.

  2. Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa to enter Vietnam. Many nationalities require a visa, even if you only stay for 1 day, so make sure to apply in advance if necessary.

  3. Arrival and Departure Times: Be aware of your flight or transportation schedules. Ensure that you have enough time to exit the airport, explore, and return in time for your departure. Deciding what to do will depend on how much time exactly you have in Vietnam for a day.

  4. Prioritize Attractions: Given the limited time, create a list of must-see attractions and experiences. Focus on the ones that interest you the most, whether it’s cultural sites, food, or nature. Also check the opening and closing times of attractions, restaurants, and shops to see if they match your time.

  5. Local Currency: Get some Vietnamese Dong (VND) or ensure you have a method of payment, like a credit card, that is widely accepted.
  6. Understand everything about planning a good Vietnam Travel Itinerary: This article will focus mostly on what to do for only 1 day in Vietnam. However, there are many things that you should know more so that you can maximize the experience of your trip. Please visit our core blog Vietnam Travel Itinerary: Top #1 Guide You Must Read for more details.
Vietnam Travel Itinerary - Top 1 Guide You Must Read
AN Tours Vietnam's detailed blog about Vietnam Travel Itinerary in general

As recommended in the previous part of this article, we will go into things to do in popular cities (Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang – Hoi An) of Vietnam, which will be best if you only have 1 day here. Now we will analyze each place to find the best Vietnam Travel Itinerary for you.

2. Ideas for Ho Chi Minh City Travel Itinerary (1 day)

2.1. Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City for only 1 day

Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon) is the largest city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is a dynamic metropolis with a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic landmarks. There are a lot of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, from historical activities to unseen local sights or even countryside visits. You can read this blog for more:

9 amazing reasons to travel to Ho Chi Minh City at least once

Here are our highly recommended things to do: 

Visit the most popular tourisism sites of Ho Chi Minh City

As a vibrant and bustling metropolis in Vietnam with a rich history and a wide range of tourist attractions, Ho Chi Minh City offers a lot of popular tourist sites (historical or cultural) for you to add to your Vietnam Travel Itinerary for even 1 day only. Here are some of the most popular tourist sights inside Ho Chi Minh City (that you can easily travel to, please click the name of each place to check it on Google Maps):

  1. Independence Palace (Reunification Palace): This historic building was the former presidential palace of South Vietnam and played a significant role in the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the well-preserved rooms and learn about the country’s history.

  2. War Remnants Museum: This museum provides a sobering look at the Vietnam War through a collection of photographs, artifacts, and exhibits. It offers a perspective on the conflict from the Vietnamese point of view.
    You can check our Full detailed guide to War Remnants Museum Ho Chi Minh City here.

  3. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon: This stunning French colonial-era cathedral is a prominent landmark in the city. It’s known for its beautiful architecture, red bricks, and two bell towers.

  4. Saigon Central Post Office: Located adjacent to the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office is another beautiful colonial-era building. Inside, you’ll find a grand interior and functioning post office counters.

  5. Ben Thanh Market: This bustling market is a must-visit for shoppers. It offers a wide range of goods, including clothing, souvenirs, handicrafts, and delicious street food. It’s an excellent place to experience the local culture.

  6. Saigon Opera House (Ho Chi Minh Municipal Theater): This elegant French colonial building hosts various cultural performances, including ballet, opera, and classical music concerts. Check the schedule for events during your visit.

  7. Jade Emperor Pagoda: This Taoist temple is known for its intricate carvings, statues, and the atmospheric smoke of burning incense. It’s a peaceful place for contemplation.
  8. Museum of Vietnamese History: This museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts that showcase the history and culture of Vietnam, from prehistoric times to the present.

Please note that you don’t have to do these all, as they will take you all of your time for only 1 day in Ho Chi Minh City. You may want to consider other activities and places besides these popular ones.

Saigon Private City Tour by Jeep (Half Day) - War Remnants Museum - AN Tours Vietnam
War Remnants Museum - the most visited museum in HCMC

Visit the unseen local sights of Saigon

While many tourists visit popular attractions in Ho Chi Minh City like the ones we have listed above, there are plenty of lesser-known, hidden gems and local sights to explore. Here’s a list of some unseen local sights to visit in Saigon that you can choose to add to your Vietnam Travel Itinerary for 1 day:

  1. The Venerable Thich Quang Duc Monument: This monument commemorates Thich Quang Duc, a Buddhist monk who famously self-immolated in 1963 as a protest against the South Vietnamese government. It’s a symbol of the city’s history and resilience. Although it is quite close to the War Remnants Museum, many tourists don’t even know it exists.

  2. The secret weapon bunker: Historical sites are popular with tourists visiting Ho Chi Minh City. But little do many know that there is a secret weapon bunker located in the center of Saigon, which soldiers used to transfer weapons for the war.
  3. The oldest coffee shops in Saigon: Vietnamese coffee is very famous in the world, thus there are many popular coffee shops in touristy areas. However, there are only a few oldest coffee shops in Saigon that use the traditional way to brew coffee. If you love Vietnamese coffee, you can’t miss those shops for your Vietnam Travel Itinerary 1 day.
  4. Local wet market: If you are looking for one of the best places to see Vietnamese culture, come to a local wet market. They also sell local things at a very cheap price than touristy markets like Ben Thanh. However, do note that people in most of the wet markets don’t speak English well.
  5. Ho Chi Minh City floating market: Yes, there is a small floating market inside Ho Chi Minh City (not that big like the one in the Mekong Delta, but still very local). However, it is only known by locals.
  6. Old apartments: Unlike modern apartments these days, old apartments in Saigon represent historical and cultural aspects of the city, which most tourists miss in their trips.

If these are so complicated for you to sort out, you can consider booking our Saigon Unseen On Motorbike (Daytime) tour to visit the best local sights in only a few hours.

Oldest coffee shop in Ho Chi Minh City - Saigon - AN Tours Vietnam
The technique to brew coffee that only a few oldest shops use
Mini floating local market in Saigon - AN Tours Vietnam
The hidden mini floating market in Saigon
Saigon Unseen City Tour - AN Tours Vietnam
Secret weapon bunker in HCMC

Experience culinary of Ho Chi Minh City

If you only have one day in Saigon, you may want to add local food as a part of your Vietnam Travel Itinerary for these reasons:

  1. Diverse Cuisine: Saigon offers a rich tapestry of flavors, blending Vietnamese traditions with global influences, resulting in a diverse culinary landscape.
  2. Street Food Culture: The city is renowned for its vibrant street food culture, where you can savor local delicacies like pho, banh mi, and fresh seafood at affordable prices.
  3. Fresh Ingredients: Saigon’s markets are brimming with fresh ingredients, ensuring that every dish bursts with flavor and authenticity.
  4. Fusion Creations: Chefs in Saigon are known for their innovative fusion dishes that combine traditional Vietnamese ingredients with international flair, providing a unique gastronomic experience.
  5. Cultural Insight: Exploring Saigon’s culinary offerings provides a window into Vietnamese culture and the city’s history, making it a memorable and enriching experience.

Here is the list of food that you must try in Ho Chi Minh City, please visit this article for details:

Local food in Ho Chi Minh City that you must try

Meanwhile, if you feel lost finding the best food to eat, you can consider these Vietnamese local food experiences:

Local Night Food Tour By Scooters – Saigon

Local Night Walking Food Tour – 100% No Tourist

Private Farm Tour & Cooking Class Half-Day (HCMC)

Do a trip outside of Ho Chi Minh City

If you want something outside of Ho Chi Minh City, it is possible to do so. However, please keep in mind that you must have enough time (most of the time, people do these activities because they stay in HCMC from early morning to late night). Or else we recommend you not do these as they may cause you to miss your schedule. Here are the most recommended ones:

1. Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive underground network located in the Cu Chi District near Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. These tunnels served as a key base of operations for the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. They are known for their intricate design, which includes narrow, cramped passages, hidden entrances, and multiple levels.

The Cu Chi Tunnels were used for various purposes during the war, including living quarters, supply routes, communication hubs, and hospitals. The tunnels were an essential part of the guerrilla warfare strategy employed by the Viet Cong, allowing them to evade enemy forces and launch surprise attacks.

Today, the Cu Chi Tunnels have been preserved as a historical site and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore sections of the tunnels, gaining insights into the challenges faced by soldiers and civilians who lived and fought there during the war. The tunnels offer a fascinating glimpse into the resourcefulness and resilience of the Vietnamese people during a turbulent period in their history.

Please remember it takes 4-6 hours for Cu Chi Tunnel, which will take up much of your only 1 day in Ho Chi Minh City. If you want to add it to your Vietnam Travel Itinerary and do it yourself, you can visit this post:

Visit Cu Chi Tunnels – 100% Detailed Guide

In case you want a tour so that things are much easier, you can check one of the best Cu Chi Tunnel tours here:

Private Cu Chi Tunnel Tour With Rice Paper Village

2. Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta in Vietnam is a lush and vibrant region located in the southern part of the country. It is often referred to as the “Rice Bowl” of Vietnam due to its fertile soil and extensive network of waterways. This delta is characterized by a complex system of rivers, canals, and swamps that make up a unique and picturesque landscape.

However, please keep in mind these things:

  • Mekong Delta includes many places to visit (My Tho, Ben Tre, Tra Vinh, Can Tho,…). Visiting one place in the Mekong Delta does not mean you will explore the whole area, especially if you have only 1 day
  • Although some popular parts of the Mekong Delta are close to Ho Chi Minh City, they still take 3-4 hours just to travel on the vehicle alone. That is why we don’t recommend doing Mekong Delta if you only have 1 day here, unless you have done all other things.

2.2. Sample itineraries for 1 day in Ho Chi Minh City

Itinerary (1): Do as many as possible

If you don’t mind spending your whole time in Vietnam doing most things as you can, please follow this itinerary:

  • Morning: Visit some of the popular places & historical sites near you
  • Afternoon: Explore the local non-touristy sites yourself, or simply book a Saigon Unseen Tour
  • Night: Enjoy your time at some bars, going around to eat random Vietnamese food, or join a Local Night Food Tour on Scooters

Itinerary (2): Historical journey

If you are interested in Vietnam history alone, you can spend your time doing these:

  • Morning: Take a bus to visit Cu Chi Tunnels or do a Private Cu Chi Tunnel Tour With Rice Paper Village (please notice your time left in HCMC, if you have less than 6 hours, this is not a good option)
  • Afternoon: As most Cu Chi Tunnels trips will return at 1-3 PM, the rest of your time you can visit 1-2 popular sites (please note that most of them will be closed at night) or take a Saigon Unseen Tour
  • Night: Enjoy your night wandering around or relax

Itinerary (3): Culture & food lover

If you don’t want your Vietnam Travel Itinerary in a day to be so tiring, you can choose to do some relaxing activities for only a few hours:

3. Ideas for Hanoi Travel Itinerary (1 day)

3.1. Best things to do in Hanoi for only 1 day

Traveling to Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is an exciting experience that combines rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. One day in Hanoi is a short but exciting opportunity to explore the capital city of Vietnam. Therefore, you will not want to miss these (but please don’t try to do them all, as you can’t in one day. Just choose the most suitable ones for your Vietnam Travel Itinerary):

Visit the iconic of Hanoi

Popular landmarks are usually the best places to go if you are a first-timer to a city. Hanoi is not different. If you have never visited Hanoi before, and only have one day here, we recommend you visit these iconic sites to have a good overview of the city (please click the name of each place to check it on Google Maps)

  1. Hoan Kiem Lake: This central lake is surrounded by greenery and serves as a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The Ngoc Son Temple on an island in the lake and the red Huc Bridge leading to it are iconic elements of this location. Best for photography.

  2. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: The final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of modern Vietnam, is a monumental structure where visitors can pay their respects. It’s a symbol of reverence for “Uncle Ho.”

  3. One Pillar Pagoda: This unique pagoda stands on a single stone pillar in a lotus pond. It’s an iconic representation of Vietnamese architecture and Buddhism.

  4. Temple of Literature: As Vietnam’s first national university, this temple complex celebrates the importance of education. Its well-preserved courtyards and historical artifacts make it a prominent landmark.

  5. Hoa Lo Prison: Originally built by the French colonialists, this prison gained international attention during the Vietnam War when it held American prisoners of war. It’s a symbol of Vietnam’s struggle for independence.

  6. St. Joseph’s Cathedral: This Neo-Gothic cathedral, also known as Nha Tho Lon, stands out with its twin spires and architecture reminiscent of European cathedrals. It’s located in the historic Old Quarter.

  7. Long Bien Bridge: This historic bridge, built during the French colonial period, spans the Red River and is an iconic symbol of Hanoi’s infrastructure and history.

  8. Dong Xuan Market: Located in the Old Quarter, this bustling market is one of the largest in Hanoi. It’s a vibrant place to experience the city’s street market culture and shop for a wide range of goods.

  9. Tran Quoc Pagoda: Situated on a small island in West Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam. It’s known for its serene setting and beautiful architecture.

  10. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long: This UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves the history of Hanoi’s royal past. It features ancient relics and structures from various dynasties.

  11. Hanoi Opera House: A French colonial architectural gem, this opera house hosts various cultural performances and is an iconic representation of Hanoi’s cultural scene.

  12. Hanoi Train Street: A popular place to visit in Hanoi recently, with great views for photography. However, please note that a lot of parts of the train street do not allow visitors.
Hanoi Food & City Tour by Vintage Motorbike 2
Long Bien Bridge - one of the historical sites of Hanoi

Explore the ancient villages of Hanoi

Unlike the modern side of Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi is known for its rich history and culture, which comes with ancient villages and traditional craft villages in and around Hanoi. They offer a glimpse into the region’s heritage. Here are some of the notable ancient villages in Hanoi (if you would like to visit these, just choose one as each visit can take almost all your day in Hanoi):

  1. Duong Lam Village: Located about 44 kilometers west of Hanoi’s city center, Duong Lam is one of the most famous ancient villages in the area. It is known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, ancient houses, and narrow alleys. The village is also home to several historical temples and pagodas.

  2. Bat Trang Ceramic Village: Situated just outside Hanoi, Bat Trang is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of ceramic and pottery making. Visitors can explore the workshops, watch artisans at work, and purchase beautifully crafted ceramics.

  3. Van Phuc Silk Village: Van Phuc, often referred to as the “Silk Village,” is famous for its long history of silk production. Here, you can witness the traditional silk-making process and buy high-quality silk products such as clothing, scarves, and more.

  4. Phu Vinh Village: Phu Vinh Village is known for its traditional conical hat making. Visitors can see how these iconic Vietnamese hats, known as “non la,” are crafted by skilled artisans.

  5. Cu Da Village: Cu Da Village is famous for its soy sauce production, a tradition that has been passed down through generations. You can visit local soy sauce workshops and taste authentic soy sauce made using traditional methods.

  6. Ngu Xa Village: Located on the shores of West Lake in Hanoi, Ngu Xa is known for its centuries-old tradition of copper casting. The village produces a variety of copper items, including traditional musical instruments and decorative pieces.

  7. Quang Ba Flower Market: While not a traditional village, Quang Ba Flower Market is a bustling hub for flower trading. It comes alive in the early morning hours, and it’s a great place to witness the vibrant flower culture of Hanoi.

Bat Trang Pottery Village Hanoi
Locals working in Bat Trang Pottery Village

Make your day in Hanoi foodie day

One day in Hanoi may not be the best to maximize your Vietnam Travel Itinerary. However, for foodie lovers, it is always enough to try the most famous food in Hanoi. In case you are not so much interested in historical sites or visiting rural areas of Hanoi, these unique foods will make your only day here the best:

  1. Pho: Pho is perhaps the most famous Vietnamese dish, and you’ll find some of the best in Hanoi. It’s a flavorful noodle soup typically made with beef or chicken, fresh herbs, and rice noodles.

  2. Bun Cha: This is a Hanoi specialty consisting of grilled pork patties served with vermicelli noodles and a bowl of dipping sauce. It’s often accompanied by herbs and fried spring rolls. There is something else you should know: this dish is served with Vietnamese shrimp paste, which is quite smelly if you have not tried it before.

  3. Cha Ca La Vong: This is a Hanoi classic. It’s a dish of turmeric-marinated fish (often catfish) that’s grilled at your table and served with rice noodles, herbs, and peanuts.

  4. Xoi Xeo: Sticky rice is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, and Xoi Xeo is a sweet and savory version of it. It’s typically topped with mung bean paste, fried shallots, and chicken or pork.

  5. Mien Luon: This dish consists of glass noodles served with deep-fried eel and a fragrant broth. It’s a unique and flavorful option for seafood lovers.

  6. Banh Tom Ho Tay: These are crispy shrimp fritters served with a dipping sauce. They are a specialty around West Lake (Ho Tay) in Hanoi.

  7. Vietnamese Egg Coffee: For a unique coffee experience, try Vietnamese Egg Coffee, or Ca Phe Trung. It’s a rich, creamy coffee made with egg yolks and condensed milk. However, if your stomach is not good, it is best not to try this one as it may cause you some trouble.

Cha Ca La Vong - Hanoi Food
Cha Ca La Vong - a must-try food in Hanoi

3.2. Sample itineraries for 1 day in Hanoi

Itinerary (1): Food & Culture & Sights

Well, everyone wants to do as many as possible when making their Vietnam Travel Itinerary. That’s why we recommend this plan so that you can enjoy the most important parts of Hanoi:

  • Morning: Visit the iconic sites of Hanoi
  • Afternoon: Going around the old town to enjoy local life & explore the unseen sights yourself, or consider booking a Hanoi Food Tour & City Tour (Jeep/ Vintage Motorbike Options)
  • Night: Enjoy the cool nighttime of Hanoi by eating around. If you are staying in the center of the city, there will be a lot of local food that you will love

Itinerary (2): Rural road trip

Unlike the Itinerary (1), this is for those who have more than 6-7 hours in Hanoi, as it will take time to visit the countryside. If you have already done everything inside Hanoi, this plan should be for you.

  • Morning & Afternoon: hire a private driver to visit one of the ancient villages, or Contact AN Tours Vietnam for a countryside tour
  • Night: Explore foodie around or relax

4. Ideas for Da Nang - Hoi An Travel Itinerary (1 day)

4.1. Best things to do in Da Nang - Hoi An for only 1 day

Da Nang & Hoi An are close to each other but different in vibes. While Da Nang is a city that you should add to your Vietnam Travel Itinerary if you like the modern side, Hoi An is about ancient boutique with local scenes that will make you fall in love.

As you only have 1 day here, we will show you what is best to enjoy either one or both of them.

Explore the most visited of Da Nang and Bana Hills with Golden Bridge

When travelers come to Da Nang, they may get lost in getting things to do in their Vietnam Travel Itinerary. As the city has a lot to do: the sea, the mountain, the city,… However, these attractions always stand out:

  1. Marble Mountains: These five limestone hills are dotted with caves, temples, and pagodas. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of Da Nang and explore the fascinating caves and grottoes.

  2. Ba Na Hills: A hill station and resort complex known for its French village, cable cars, and the Golden Bridge (Cau Vang), a unique pedestrian bridge held up by giant stone hands. Please keep in mind this is a theme park, which you will need to pay for tickets of cable car to get inside the area.

  3. Dragon Bridge Show: Witness the Dragon Bridge breathing fire and water on weekends. It’s a spectacle that kids usually find fascinating. You can easily access to the bridge as it is right in the center of Da Nang.
  4. My Son Holy Land: The “My Son Holy Land” is an ancient archaeological site located near Hoi An in central Vietnam. It was once the religious and political center of the Champa Kingdom and is renowned for its well-preserved Hindu temple ruins. Visitors can explore the intricately carved temples and learn about the history and culture of this ancient civilization. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich heritage.
  5. Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain): This nature reserve offers hiking trails, beautiful viewpoints, and the Linh Ung Pagoda with a towering Guanyin statue. Here you can try one of the once-in-the-life-time experience: watching Da Nang City from the sky above by taking Da Nang City Tour On Sky – Paragliding

Private Bana Hill Tour with Golden Bridge - AN Tours Vietnam
Golden Bridge - the most checked-in place in Da Nang

Enjoy the stunning beaches in Da Nang - Hoi An

Crafting one-day Vietnam Travel Itinerary in Da Nang – Hoi An is very easy for those who love beaches and relaxing. Here are our most recommendations for you:

  1. My Khe Beach (Da Nang): My Khe is one of the most famous and popular beaches in Da Nang. It’s known for its soft, white sand and clear blue waters, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. There are also various water sports and beachside cafes to enjoy.

  2. Non Nuoc Beach (Da Nang): Adjacent to My Khe, Non Nuoc Beach is famous for its natural beauty and relatively quieter atmosphere. It’s a great place to relax and unwind.

  3. An Bang Beach (Hoi An): Located just a short drive from Hoi An’s Old Town, An Bang Beach offers a more laid-back and peaceful setting. It has a range of beachfront restaurants and bars where you can enjoy fresh seafood.

  4. Cua Dai Beach (Hoi An): Cua Dai Beach is another beautiful beach near Hoi An. It’s known for its scenic views and the nearby Cham Islands, which can be visited for snorkeling and diving adventures.

Explore hidden gems & culinary of Hoi An

As an ancient town, Hoi An does not only have those antique scenes, but also offers a great variety of hidden gems that give travelers insights into the culture and life of locals here, even if they only have 1 day here. Some of the hidden gems & culinary activities we recommend:

  1. Explore the Countryside: Rent a bicycle or a motorbike and venture into the countryside surrounding Hoi An. You’ll find lush rice paddies, water buffalo, and traditional Vietnamese villages that are far removed from the tourist areas.

  2. Visit Local Markets: Skip the well-known Hoi An Central Market and explore smaller, local markets like Cam Nam Market and Cam Chau Market. These markets are less crowded and offer a more authentic glimpse into daily life.

  3. Cooking Classes in Local Homes: Instead of taking a cooking class at a touristy cooking school, inquire if local families offer cooking classes in their homes. This can provide a more personal and genuine experience.

  4. Enjoy street food: Hoi An street food is highly recommended among travelers. If you only have one day here, you should wander around the small streets of Hoi An to enjoy local street food.
  5. Visit Hidden Temples and Pagodas: Explore smaller and less-visited temples and pagodas in the town and countryside. These places can offer a peaceful and contemplative experience.
  6. Artisan Workshops: Look for workshops and artisans who create traditional crafts such as lantern making, silk weaving, and pottery. Visiting these workshops can provide insight into the local craft traditions.

3.2. Sample itineraries for 1 day in Da Nang - Hoi An

Itinerary (1): Da Nang popular exploration

If you decide to spend your 1 day in Da Nang only, and want to explore the best offers of this city, here is our recommended itinerary:

  • Morning: Visit My Son Holy Land (it is best to do this in the very early morning when the sun rises) then visit Marble Mountain
  • Afternoon: You can book Da Nang Private Car – Taxi to visit Bana Hills and the Golden Bridge. Please note this is a theme park, so you can easily visit it yourself with no need for a tour.
  • Night: Enjoy the nighttime visiting the Dragon Bridge of Da Nang and walk along My Khe beach.

Itinerary (2): Beach & sport lover

In case you are not interested in sightseeing Da Nang, you can follow this itinerary for 1 day here:

  • Morning: Take a flight with Da Nang City Tour On Sky – Paragliding to explore the city from above
  • Afternoon: Visit My Khe Beach and enjoy here till sunset
  • Night: Visiting Dragon Bridge of Da Nang and relax.

Itinerary (3): Hoi An ancient town trip & local foodie

If the modernization of Da Nang does not interest you, Hoi An will be a great choice to spend your day. Here is our recommendation so that you can enjoy both scenes and food of Hoi An:

Itinerary (4): Hoi An countryside & local exploration

If you feel like the countryside of Hoi An is more attractive to you, here is our sample itinerary to spend your only day in Hoi An:

Please note that the itineraries above are just samples. You can always craft your own, or contact us for help.

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