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Backpacking Vietnam Itinerary: 2 Weeks of Adventure!

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Planning Your Backpacking Vietnam Itinerary? Start Here!

Backpacking through Vietnam is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that actually lives up to the hype. Whether you’re diving into street food, cruising through limestone cliffs, or riding motorbikes through mountain passes, this country has something wild and wonderful around every corner for you to discover.

This suggested 2-week backpacking Vietnam itinerary takes you from the buzzing streets of Hanoi down to the chaos and charm of Ho Chi Minh City—with stops in dreamy towns, beach hideaways, and mountain adventures in between. We’ve also packed in plenty of Vietnam travel tips and backpacking Hanoi advice to make sure your trip is as smooth (and cheap) as possible.

Day 1–3: Backpacking Hanoi – Start Your Trip in the Heart of Vietnam.

There’s no better place to kick off your backpacking Vietnam itinerary than Hanoi. This buzzing city has it all—chaotic streets, rich culture, and some of the best street food you’ll ever taste.

Start your day exploring the Old Quarter, then chill by Hoan Kiem Lake with a fresh iced coffee. Don’t miss the Temple of Literature or Train Street for that perfect Insta shot. If you’re up for it, check out a traditional water puppet show in the evening.

Backpacking Vietnam Itinerary: Hoan Kiem Lake

💡 Vietnam travel tip: Grab a local SIM card at the airport and download the Xanh SM or Grab app for cheap rides around the city.

👉 Where to stay?
Book a cozy room at Quiri Hostel Hanoi – free breakfast, welcome beer, and right in the heart of the Old Quarter.

Day 4–5: Cruise Ha Long Bay or Chill in Cat Ba

After backpacking Hanoi, head east to one of Vietnam’s most iconic sights: Ha Long Bay. Choose between a budget-friendly day cruise or stay overnight on a boat or on nearby Cat Ba Island.

Expect epic limestone cliffs, kayaking adventures, and unforgettable sunsets.

Ha Long Bay

💡 Vietnam travel tip: Bring sunscreen and motion sickness pills—those waves can be sneaky!

Day 6–7: Get Lost in Ninh Binh – “The Inland Ha Long”

Just a few hours south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh offers jaw-dropping views without the crowds. Hike up to Mua Cave for panoramic photos, take a boat ride through Tam Coc’s rice paddies, and visit ancient temples like Bich Dong Pagoda.

It’s a chill break on your backpacking Vietnam itinerary, and totally worth the detour.

Ninh Binh – “The Inland Ha Long”

Day 8–10: Explore Hoi An’s Ancient Streets and Beaches

Catch an overnight bus or train to Hoi An (or fly to Da Nang if you’re short on time). This UNESCO World Heritage town is known for lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, and nearby beaches like An Bang.

Take a cooking class, bike through rice fields, or just grab a beer by the river. It’s easily a backpacker favorite.

Hoi An’s Ancient Streets

Day 11–12: Adventure Through Da Lat’s Cool Mountains

Da Lat is Vietnam’s cool mountain getaway, surrounded by pine forests, waterfalls, and quirky French-style villas. If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss the canyoning tours. You’ll hike, slide down natural rock waterslides, and even climb down waterfalls with a rope—don’t worry, it’s all safe and guided, and way more fun than it sounds!

Da Lat’s Mountains

💡 Vietnam travel tip: It gets chilly here, so bring a hoodie or light jacket.

Day 13–14: Finish the Trip in Ho Chi Minh City

Wrap up your backpacking Vietnam itinerary in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). It’s wild, fast-paced, and packed with history. Visit the War Remnants Museum, Cu Chi Tunnels, and Ben Thanh Market.

If you’ve still got energy, party on Bui Vien Street with fellow backpackers.

Ho Chi Minh City

Bonus Route Option: The Ha Giang Loop

Got extra days? Tack on the Ha Giang Loop before leaving Northern Vietnam. It’s a 3–5 day motorbike adventure through mountains and local ethnic villages. Ask the Quiri Hostel team about the tours—we know the best and cheapest tours for you!