Backpacking through Vietnam is awesome, seriously! With some damn impressive views, crazy delicious food, and awesome locals, it is perfect no matter what type of traveler you are.
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However, the only thing is planning a trip there can be pretty overwhelming since it’s a lot of ground to cover.
But don’t worry, there’s a popular backpacking route that makes things easier. That’s where I explored during my 3 weeks in Vietnam
Our itinerary starts in the North, in the city of Hanoi, and ends in Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon. You’ll have no issues traveling in and out of these spots since they both have International Airports, and if you wish, you can easily flip it around and do the itinerary backwards.
We actually spent 4 weeks traveling here, 28 days on the dot. Though we spent too long in some cities, I have altered this to just a 3 week Vietnam itinerary, so you can make the most of it.
I seriously don’t recommend shortening it anymore, as it will be a bit too intense with A LOT of travel days and not too much time in between.
We will keep you on the main backpacking Vietnam route. Though with a few extra highlights thrown in to take your adventures to the next level.
The Best 3 Weeks In Vietnam Itinerary For First-Time Visitors
- Hanoi (Day 1 – 3)
- Sapa (Day 3 – 6)
- Hanoi ( Day 6 – 7)
- Ha Long Bay (Day 7 – 8)
- Ninh Binh (Day 8 – 10)
- Hue (Day 10 – 12)
- Hoi An (Day 12 – 15)
- Nha Trang (Day 15 – 17)
- Mui Ne (Day 17 – 19)
- Ho Chi Minh City (Day 19 – 21)
- Extend Your Vietnam Itinerary
- FAQs About This Ultimate Backpacking Vietnam Route
- Wrap Up: The Best 3 Weeks In Vietnam Itinerary
???? How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: Baolau & 12.Go Asia
Hanoi (Day 1 – 3)
Xin chà o and welcome to the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi! Our first stop on this pretty damn awesome 3 week adventure.
I know, it’ll be super full on, and things can seem a lil crazy when you first arrive. But seriously, just chill and enjoy the chaos!
Hanoi has this cool vibe, like a lively-but-gritty thing going on. It’s mostly because of the buildings that mix French and Chinese styles.
Plus, you absolutely have to wander down those tiny streets and try all the amazing street food. You won’t regret it!
You will actually need to stay in Hanoi for a couple of extra nights as stop-offs between some other stops of this Vietnam itinerary.
This is simply because you don’t want to book all your transport on the same day in case you miss it. So don’t stress fitting all the highlights in at once, as you will have a bit of extra time here.
I have actually written a full 3 days in Hanoi itinerary, with absolutely everything you need to know, including what to do morning, afternoon, and night.
Getting From Noi Bai Airport To The Old Quarter
There are quite a few options to get from Noi Bai International Airport to the Old Quarter.
They are also a surprisingly long distance apart, as Hanoi is a huge city. Depending on the type of transport and traffic, it could take anywhere from 30 minutes to a full hour.
Prepaid Transfer: This is the most popular option and also one I highly recommend. You can book via your accommodation or online, and it typically costs $20.00.
Taxi: They are super easy to find in the arrivals area, waiting out front. A typical car costs between $14.00 to $18.00, just make sure to agree on a fixed price and don’t pay by the meter.
Bus: The cheapest way will for sure be the public bus.
- Number 86 Bus is the newest, and most recommended bus. It will take you directly to the Old Quarter and finishes at the Hanoi Central Railway Station. The drive will take around 1 hour and cost $1.30 per person.
Top Things To Do In Hanoi
Time to start exploring the best of what Hanoi has to offer. You should have a day and half to explore, which should be a decent amount of time to check things out.
Wander The Old Quarter
The Old Quarter is a crazy busy place. Think small alleys, stores spilling out the side of buildings, and motorbikes speeding down the street.
Stop at that store selling those cute trinkets, grab a banh mi from that food cart, and follow your nose to the best egg coffee.
St Joseph’s Cathedral – Oldest Church In Hanoi
I was lucky enough to stay in a hostel right next to the most beautiful St Joseph Church, smack bang in the Old Quarter.
If you’re around on a Sunday morning, sneak a peek inside the church during the service. Just remember to chill in the back and watch quietly.
Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple (Temple Of Jade Mountain)
At the lake, take a stroll around the outside, for sure, this is the best spot to people watch.
In the middle, you can see Ngoc Son Temple, which is worth checking out as well.
Train Street
One of the most popular attractions is Train Street. As the name suggests, this is a piece of train track that snuggly fits between the tall buildings on either side.
For sure, this has become a tourist attraction over the years, though, because it can be quite dangerous (like there’s a literal train coming towards you), it is a lot more difficult to visit nowadays than it once was.
Where To Stay In Hanoi
The Old Quarter is the best part of Hanoi to stay. It is full of culture with temples, old gates, small alleys, and traditional shops.
Everything is within relatively close walking distance, with plenty of affordable eateries, pretty nice but cheap hostels, and luxury hotels.
I recently stayed at Hanoi City Backpackers Hostel, which is perfect if you’re solo. Here, the dorm beds start from just $5.00, and with a privacy curtain, it is awesome value for money!
How To Get From Hanoi To Sapa
Sapa is the most Northern this itinerary will take you.
Bus: The bus takes 6 hours, and it’s direct, so there’s no need to stop in Lao Cai like the train. Though, as someone who has done this, let me just say, pick your bus company wisely!
Train: To Lao Cai, the train takes 8 hours and 5 minutes (this is the nearest station, 35 kilometers away). Though because of this, you’ll need to travel an additional 65 minutes to reach Sapa.
Car or taxi: It takes around 5 and to reach Sapa via the highway. The easiest way to prebook is online with 12.Go Asia.
Mini Van: This is slightly more expensive, but some of these minivans are fancy AF. Think plush, lazy-boy-style seats. One of the most popular companies is called Eco Sapa Bus. You get 5 and a half hours of comfort.
| Time | Cost | Highlight | Book Now | |
| Train | 8 hours | from $23 | Comfortable journey | Book Here |
| Luxury Train | 8 hours | from $30 | Super comfortable journey | Book Here |
| Bus | 6 hours | from $10 | The cheapest way to travel | Book Here |
| Tourist Bus | 6 hours | from $15 | More comfortable than the regular bus | Book Here |
| Taxi | 5 hours | from $200 | The fastest way to travel | Book Here |
| Mini Van | 5 hours | from $20 | A fast and relatively affordable | Book Here |
Sapa (Day 3 – 6)
Now it’s time to venture somewhere quieter and chill, called Sapa. This is the perfect place to check out the iconic rice terraces, some impressive peaks, and see what rural life is like here in Vietnam.
This place is absolutely gorgeous and honestly quite different from other popular towns and cities along the tourist trail.
I have actually written a full 3 days in Sapa itinerary, with absolutely everything you need to know if you’re keen to go a bit more in depth.
Though for now, let’s chat about some of the highlights.
Trekking In Sapa
One of the best ways to go trekking around Sapa is on a guided tour. These are surprisingly affordable, costing less than $20.00 for the day, and this price generally includes lunch and water as well.
The guides will be able to take you through the rice terraces to some epic spots. You get the chance to interact with the local villagers and learn about their way of life.
Other Things To Do In Sapa
Sapa is a nature lover’s paradise full of plenty of things to do, and quite different from other places we will visit in this Vietnam itinerary.
Check Out Mount Fansipan
Mount Fansipan, also known as the roof of Indochina, is not just the highest peak in Vietnam at over 10,000 feet, but also in the whole Indo-Chinese Peninsula, which includes Laos and Cambodia!
Here, you can hike to the top if you’re brave enough, or simply catch the cable car to check out the pretty impressive views.
Waterfalls
Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall are well worth checking out here as well.
Love waterfall is a short 15 minute hike away through the forest. The entry fee is just $3.00 / 70,000 VND, and it is definitely worth it.
A few kilometers’ drive away is also Silver Waterfall. Technically, you can easily see it from the roadside, but for the best view, climb the stairs to the top.
Sapa Night Market
Now, I love a night market, and this one is only held on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
You can find it on N1 Street in the middle of town, so you seriously can’t miss it. This is the perfect place for a little bit of souvenir shopping or a delicious dinner.
Home Stay In Ta Van
There are so many places to choose from, and the easiest way to book your Homestay is through Booking.com. This is what I used, and it was super straightforward.
During your homestay, you will get ot experince life in the countryside and see a different side of Vietnam.
Cat Cat Village
Cat Cat Village is a popular spot, but in all honesty, it is extremely touristy. Though no wonder why considering it’s so easy to get to in the Muong Hoa Valley, just 3 kilometers from Sapa Town.
This place is home to the ethnic H’Mong and Dzao people, and here they come together to demonstrate their handicrafts and skills.
Where To Stay In Sapa
You’ll have heaps of options for accommodations, but most people mix it up with a hotel in the main town and a homestay in the countryside.
Sapa town is absolutely full of hotel and hostel options. The township is also pretty compact, making it easy to travel on foot.
I also recommend doing a homestay experience living alongside a local family. You eat what they eat, see the countryside, and explore.
When I stayed in Sapa, I booked mine on booking.com, and there were so many choices available. Just be aware that some will have heating, electricity, and wifi, while others may not.
Hanoi ( Day 6 – 7)
This one night in Hanoi will allow you enough time to get back to the city before our Ha Long Bay adventures tomorrow.
It’s a long journey, no matter how you decide to travel, so no doubt you will need a good night’s sleep before venturing on.
Ha Long Bay (Day 7 – 8)
One of the most popular things here is to take a tour of Ha Long Bay. This amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site is no doubt one of the top experiences to have when in Vietnam.
Though the problem is, that there are so many options! They range from the horribly cheap ‘I am not sure how this boat is floating’ type to luxury junk boat with a six-course dinner.
Halong Bay is easy to get to, being just a couple of hours away. I recommend booking the overnight cruise for the 3 weeks in Vietnam itinerary, and they will generally include transfers from Hanoi.
Choosing A Ha Long Bay Cruise
Now there is an absolute crazy amount of cruises you can book, and honestly, it can get quite overwhelming.
I think you should book based on what other people say about it. A lower price doesn’t always mean low quality, and a higher price doesn’t always mean you’re getting the best.
I did a 2-night trip where our first day was spent on board the junk boat, and the last day checking out the nearby Cat Ba Island.
This gave us great variety as we weren’t just stuck on one boat for three days.
???? How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: Baolau & 12.Go Asia
Hanoi To Ninh Binh
After your time venturing in Ha Long Bay has come to an end, you will transfer back to Hanoi with your boat company.
Luckily, the journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is relatively short, so you will be able to do this on the same day.
Bus: You will find plenty of buses traveling to Ninh Binh for around a pretty affordable 200,000 – 250,000 VND / $8.50 – $10.70.
Train:
You’ll find plenty of trains to Ninh Binh available from Hanoi. Soft seats cost 99,000 VND / $4.25, but for a little bit more, you could book a sleeper berth for 115,000 VND / $4.90, which has more privacy.
Taxi: If you are in a rush or perhaps in a group, then you can always book a taxi. The journey is much quicker than the bus, only taking 2 hours.
Mini Van: Taking the minivan is another great way to travel. This is slightly expensive than the bus, but some are fancy AF.
Ninh Binh (Day 8 – 10)
Honestly, this is one spot that has blown up recently. And no wonder! With beautiful karst mountains, greenery, and crazy views.
When you visit, hike up the viewpoints, take a boat ride through caves, or just chill out and relax. It is another beautiful spot in Vietnam and highly worth visiting during your itinerary.
For a lot of people, this is the most beautiful destination in Vietnam and will leave you in awe. Near Ninh Binh, you also have the picturesque town of Tam Coc, which is surrounded by mountains with homestays and dreamy accommodations galore.
Things To Do In Ninh Binh
There are plenty of awesome things to do in Ninh Binh that are well worth checking out.
Trang An Boat Ride
No doubt, a Trang An Boat Ride is the most popular thing, and where the majority of people get those nice Instagram pictures.
This tour will take you through the limestone mountains on a maze of rivers and through caves. There are three different routes to choose from, but they all cost the same.
Hang Mua Viewpoint
For the ultimate view, it’s definitely worth checking out Hang Mua Viewpoint. It may be quite a climb up the 500 stairs, but it’s so worth it.
Be aware that the staircase splits about halfway up.
The right leads to a tower on the lower point. The left continues upward to the highest point, where you can find the pagodas and the white dragon statue, oh, and of course, the incredible view.
Hire A Bicycle
One of the best things here is simply to explore at your own pace. Many hostels and homestays offer super affordable bike rentals, and since the region is relatively flat, it’s easy to ride around.
Make sure you cycle to the nearby Tam Coc, explore the main street, and around the lake.
Bich Dong Pagoda
This picturesque spot is found hidden underneath one of the limestone mountains. As you explore, you will discover more temples sticking out from the mountainside.
The great thing about this Pagoda is that it is an easy bike ride from downtown Tam Coc, or you can take a grab car.
Where Should You Stay In Ninh Binh
Now, you basically have two options in terms of locations, either Ninh Binh or Tam Coc. They are about 15 minutes apart, though the main difference is the amenities available.
Ninh Binh is larger, and here you’ll be spoilt for choice in terms of accommodation, restaurants, and cafes.
Though being a larger means Ninh Binh doesn’t have that whole quaint feel that many expect.
In contrast, Tam Coc is much smaller. You will be sleeping in a homestay, and you’ll get to experience the best this region has to offer.
Ninh Binh To Hue
Next up, you’ll travel from Ninh Binh to Hue. Unfortunately, this is going to be quite a long journey.
But, if you time it right, you can book an overnight train or bus.
Train: Around 6 trains leave Ninh Binh towards Hue every day, though you will be best off taking one of the two night trains. It’ll take around 12 hours to travel, which is more than enough time for a decent sleep, and cost around 600,000 VND / $25.70 for a sleeper.
Bus: You will find plenty of buses traveling to Hue. The bus again takes 12 hours, but is a lot cheaper, costing 325,000 VND / $13.50. Just keep in mind that sleeper buses in Vietnam are quite dangerous, and the train isn’t that much more expensive.
Fly: As Ninh Binh doesn’t have an airport, you’ll need to travel back to Hanoi to catch a flight to Hue.
Hue (Day 10 – 12)
Hue is well worth checking out on your 3 weeks in Vietnam itinerary. Imagine a city equal parts quaint and bustling, a beautiful river running along the middle, and an impressive citadel.
This is Hue, and it is such a unique place.
Honestly, you do not need too long to explore here, which is why two days in Hue is perfect. However, I have heard of people just spending the day here.
They arrived early morning on the overnight train and then took a late train out. This has given them a decent chunk of the day to explore the main thing to do here, which is the Imperial City of Hue.
Best Things To Do In Hue
Well, the Imperial City of Hue is no doubt the main reason why most people travel to Hue. Though, in saying that, there are plenty of other things to do here as well.
The Imperial City of Hue
Let’s start with the most obvious thing to do here, the impressive Imperial City of Hue.
So, it building started way back in 1362, and then in 1993, it got the big thumbs-up from UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. In all those years in between, it saw tons of stuff happen, including being Vietnam’s capital for more than a century!
Purchase your entry ticket for 150,00 VND / $6.60 and enter inside to explore.
The grounds are massive! We spent about 3 hours checking it out. It felt a little quick, to be truthful. We would have hung around longer if it wasn’t so hot!
The 7 Story Thien Mu Pagoda
Thien Mu Pagoda is best known for its impressive 7 stories, and climbing the stairs, you will be treated to incredible views across the river.
To get there, I recommend simply taking a Grab taxi (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber).
The Abandoned Waterpark
It will be best to get yourself some wheels to explore The Abandoned Waterpark.
Apart from being a reasonable distance away from the city of Hue, the park itself is pretty spread out, and to see it all, you’ll need a motorbike to get around.
Also, bring along some extra cash as you’ll likely need to bribe a security guard to enter.
ABANDONED WATER PARK HUE VIETNAM – TOP THING TO DO IN VIETNAM
The Royal Temple of Tu Duc
The Royal Temple of Tu Duc is quite pretty, sporting cool Chinese-style buildings. It’s also where Emperor Tu Duc, who ruled from 1847 to 1883, is buried.
Where To Stay In Hue
I personally stayed in a lovely little guesthouse in Hue, which was the perfect budget option. There are some great guesthouse choices for less than $20.00 per night.
Alternatively, if you are traveling solo, you can find plenty of cute, modern, and clean hostels here also.
Hue To Hoi An
It is relatively straightforward to travel from Hue to Hoi An. However, for a real adventure, do a Jeep or easy rider tour over the Hai Van Pass.
This will turn a mundane few hours into an exciting few, checking out the incredible landscapes and roads.
This is the perfect top-gear moment where you will ride over the Hai Van Pass.
Depending on which tour you book, you’ll also get a chance you check out some other spots along the way.
If you want to travel by train, you will need to go from Hue to Da Nang by train and then transfer from Da Nang to Hoi An by bus or taxi.
???? How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: Baolau & 12.Go Asia
Hoi An (Day 12 – 15)
Seriously, Hoi An is an awesome place to spend a few days, plus it’s makes for a nice break. It’s equal parts quaint and beautiful, especially in the ancient town.
It is equal parts quaint and beautiful, especially in the ancient town. Imagine lanterns lighting the night sky, delicious food, and some incredible photo opportunities.
I found this township quite unlike anything we had come across in this country so far. Honestly, it’s extremely touristic, though still very beautiful.
During our stay, we also traveled around by motorbike and bicycle since the roads are pretty safe.
Things To Do In Hoi An
Hoi An is a seriously cool town! There’s a ton to do here, which is probably why it’s one of my fave places in Vietnam. It’s easy to see what all the fuss is about.
So let’s get into what you should do in Hoi An for an epic time:
Take a cooking class
This is a must do here and an excellent way to learn some of those delicious Vietnamese dishes.
You can check out Get Your Guide for an excellent cooking class that is very popular with travelers.
Highlights include shopping for ingredients, cruising down the Thu Bon River, exploring the coconut forest by those crazy basket boats, and, of course, eating your creations!
Visit The Ancient Town
This ancient town is what makes Hoi An so special. Thankfully, it managed to survive the War mostly unscathed and is said to have been settled for at least 2000 years.
There is an entry fee to the ancient town of 120,000 VND / $5.00 per person.
While here, you can check out:
- The Old House Of Tan Ky
- The Japanese Covered Bridge
Get Some Tailor-Made Clothing
Once you’re in the city, you will notice HEAPS of clothing stores matching items from scratch.
A popular choice is Kimmy’s Custom Tailor, which is located just outside the old town. They are well known for their professional service and quality materials.
My Son Sanctuary
This is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it is marketed as the Angkor Wat of Vietnam. Booking a tour is probably the most popular option and is surprisingly affordable.
I recommend a sunrise tour of My Son Sanctuary. This allows you to beat the crowds and the heat, while having the grounds pretty damn quiet.
Cycle To The Beach
Hire a bicycle, make your way to the coast, and hit up An Bang Beach.
This is an easy straight cycle, 4 kilometers from the ancient town. Seriously, it is nearly impossible to get lost, and if you do, just follow all the other bikes.
Tra Que Vegetable Village
Just outside the busy Hoi An is Tra Que Vegetable Village, sitting in the countryside.
Think green fields, water buffalo chilling out, and locals putting in the work.
Full of lush fields, roaming water buffalo, and locals hard at work making a living. It is the perfect contrast to the bustling Vietnamese streets, which lie a few hundred meters away.
Thanh Ha Pottery Village
Here you will find cups, jars, bowls, and pots crafted here that are exported all over the world.
There is an entry fee into Thanh Ha Pottery Village of 30,000 VND / $1.30. This amount includes a little souvenir which you will receive from one of the houses, but I will leave what you get a surprise!
Marble Mountain
If you’re up for a little trip outside Hoi An, swing by Marble Mountain in Da Nang. Marble Mountain, or Thuy Son as some call it, is one of 5 mountains made of marble and limestone sticking out of the ground in central Vietnam.
When you get to the top, there are pretty Buddhist temples, marble statues, caves, and tunnels to check out.
Where To Stay In Hoi An
Whether you want a beachside hotel, city homestay, or hostel in the countryside, you’ll have no problem finding it.
However, if you are limited on time, I recommend you stay near the Ancient Town area. This will keep you near the action, plus you don’t have to deal with hiring a motorbike to get around.
The homestay I stayed in while visiting Hoi An is called Little Leo. This was such a friendly and welcoming hostel/ homestay. It was the perfect choice as we were on a budget.
We paid $7.00 for a 4-bed dorm room, which also included a delicious breakfast and free bicycle hire. The lady who ran it was super helpful, and they offered super cheap tours, which was a bonus.
Hoi An To Nha Trang
Now, you’ll need to travel from Hoi An to Nha Trang for the next part of our Vietnam itinerary.
Once again, this is going to be another long journey with 500 kilometers being covered, but don’t worry, this will be the last big one. Last chance for a sleeper journey?
Train: It is a 10 hour train from Da Nang since there’s no station in Hoi An. A sleeper train will be your best bet and costs 600,000 VND / $25.70.
Bus: A bus will take around 11 hours, depending on how often the bus stops. Hanh Cafe and The Sinh Tourist are the companies I would recommend.
Fly: Thankfully, it is only a 1-hour flight, though you will need to travel to Da Nang to the nearest airport. Flights in Vietnam are pretty cheap, with a bunch of affordable airlines.
| Transport Method | Time | Cost | Highlight | Book Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | 14 hours | from $40 | Comfortable journey | Book Here |
| Luxury Train | 14 hours | from $60 | Super comfortable journey | Book Here |
| Bus | 12 hours | from $13 | The cheapest way to travel | Book Here |
| Tourist Bus | 13 hours | from $14 | More comfortable than the regular bus | Book Here |
| Plane | 1 hour | from $35 | The fastest way to travel | Book Here |
Nha Trang (Day 15 – 17)
Now, Nha Trang is a pretty sweet place right on the coast, and it has some of the best beaches in Vietnam!
I’m not going to lie, one of my favorite things to do here is to simply relax, and after all that traveling, you’ll likely need some as well.
Pull up a chair on the beach, listen to the waves, and watch the palm trees sway.
Honestly, if you are not a beach-goer type, then you may want to give Nha Trang a miss. Perhaps swap it out for Da Lat. Though if you are ready to work on that tan, this is the place to be.
I have actually written a backpacking Nha Trang and 3 day itinerary post if you’re keen to go a bit more in depth on this city.
Best Things To Do While In Nha Trang
There’s way more to do around here than just hang out at the beach! Even though that may be my favorite.
Here are my top picks:
The Beach
It’s incredible how such a beautiful beach is located right in a city. You’ll find it stretching 6 kilometers along the coast, providing plenty of areas to swim.
The most popular spot is Tran Phu Beach, near a lot of the guesthouses and resorts.
Be aware of the little beach bars on the shoreline. Some of these charge just for use of the chairs, and others have a minimum spend on drinks or snacks.
Po Nagar Cham Towers
This place is one of the most popular sights and is still an active place for worship by the Cham, Vietnamese Buddhists, and Chinese.
It’s just 2 kilometers out of the city center, so super easy to get to by taxi or grab car.
Snorkeling Tour
Why not go snorkeling in Nha Trang? Luckily for ocean lovers like me, there’s over 12,00 hectares of marine reserve here.
This coral-filled area is known as the Hon Mun Marine Protected Area and is where you will visit.
Vinpearl
Here you can find shows, rides, a zoo, an aquarium, gardens, and even a large water park area, all under VinWonders. You will definitely need a full day to explore it all!
The tickets for VinWonders and the cable car return trip cost 880,000 VND / $38.00 for adults.
It is more of a pricey activity to do in Nha Trang. Though it is certainly worth it for a day of fun out in the sun.
Relax At Thap Ba Hot Springs For The Mud Baths
If you’re ever in Nha Trang, you gotta try a mud bath! For the best experience, I’d say head over to Thap Ba Hot Springs. You won’t regret it!
The mud is amazing for your skin since it’s full of minerals (fingers crossed for that youthful glow again). People usually cover themselves in it, chill in the bath, and let the mud do its thing.
Where To Stay In Nha Trang
There are heaps of options in Nha Trang whether that’s a hotel in the city, a cheap guesthouse, a beach resort, or a seaside hostel.
I can highly recommend Tabalo Hostel, which is where we stayed. It’s a super modern spot and very aesthetic for an affordable hostel.
The bathrooms were great and always super clean, and the beds were comfortable with a sturdy wooden design.
There are also heaps of affordable guesthouses here in Nha Trang. It won’t be anything fancy, but it will have everything you need for a decent night’s sleep.
Nha Trang To Mui Ne
So, next stop will be Mui Ne, but we need to get there first. Luckily, it’s not anything crazy, only about 220 kilometers!
Train: Now, the train takes about 4 hours, which, yes, is pretty short. Just a heads-up, once you get to the Phan Thiet train station, it’s about a 25 minute drive to Mui Ne.
Bus: The bus takes around 5 hours, and is pretty painless. Personally, I have done this route with The Sinh Tourist, and it was great.
Fly: Unfortunately, you can’t fly to Mui Ne since there’s no airport here. Don’t be too disappointed, as it is in the works in the nearby town of Phan Thiet.
| Transport Method | Time | Cost | Highlight | Book Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | 4 hours 30 minutes + Taxi | from $7 | Comfortable journey | Book Here |
| Private Transfer | 3 hours | from $75 | Super comfortable journey | Book Here |
| Bus | 5 hours | from $7 | The cheapest way to travel | Book Here |
| Tourist Bus | 5 hours | from $12 | More comfortable than the regular bus | Book Here |
| Plane | N/A | N/A | An airport is currently being built outside of Mui Ne | N/A |
???? How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: Baolau & 12.Go Asia
Mui Ne (Day 17 – 19)
Don’t worry, we’re not leaving the beach now, we’re still in true holiday mode. Next up, we have the coastal town of Mui Ne on our Vietnam backpacking route.
Okay, to be completely honest, this place might be average if it weren’t for the damn awesome scenery surrounding it.
Think of large sand dunes facing the ocean, a chill small-town vibe, affordable places to stay and eat, and beaches super close.
The main thing to do here is to take a sunrise tour. This tour will take you to all the best things in Mui Ne so you can check out those highlights.
I have actually written a backpacking Mui Ne in 2 days itinerary, with absolutely everything you need to know.
Choosing A Sunrise Tour
Walking down the street, you’ll see hotels, travel agencies, and even restaurants, advertising this famous sunrise tour.
Sure, it is an early wake-up time with your pick up somewhere between 4.30 am and 5.30 am. But trust me, it is worth it for the sunrise over the impressive white sand dunes.
Plus, these tours only cost 160,000 VND / $7.00, so it is a crazy affordable way to see the best Mui Ne has to offer. For this price, we shared a jeep with other people staying at our accommodation.
However, if you want a bit more freedom, you can book a private jeep tour, which is still pretty cheap, starting from $20.00 for the entire jeep!
White Sand Dunes
The first stop on your tour will be the White Sand Dunes to watch the sunrise. This will no doubt be one of your highlights here, as it was mine.
You’ll have the choice here to pay a jeep to take you out or hire an ATV. Instead, if you are on a budget like I happened to be, you can simply walk out to the dunes from the car park.
It is a nice stroll, and since it is the morning, the heat of the day hasn’t started yet.
Fishing Village
Here you can see all the brightly colored fishing boats bobbing around in the water and fishermen pulling in their catches.
It can be a bit confronting, both to the eyes and nose, but it’s an interesting experience for sure.
Red Sand Dunes
The third stop of the morning will be the famous red sand dunes. These are a lot more touristy than the white ones simply because they back right onto the road, literally.
This means you’ll often find large tour buses here, whereas in the white sand dunes, you need a 4WD to access them without getting stuck.
Fairy Stream
This is a relatively shallow stream flowing through bright red dirt. You simply go on a really nice walk upstream to a waterfall.
However, my favorite part was the colors. It was so incredible seeing these bright orange sand cliffs contrast against the green, lush jungle.
Where To Stay In Mui Ne
There are heaps of places to stay in Mui Ne, from affordable hostels, beachside resorts, or friendly guesthouses.
Just be aware, it can actually be super difficult to access the beach unless you are staying somewhere on the beachfront. This was the mistake we made in staying on the other side of the road. Luckily, there was a pool, but the beach would’ve been nice as well.
In terms of hostels, definitely EVA HUT Mui Ne Beach Hostel is your best bet. With prices starting from $6.00 for a dorm room, this beachfront spot is the perfect place to stay if you’re backpacking.
| iHome Backpacker ResortThe perfect hostel with a decent pool. Dorm rooms starting at $7.00 per night.BOOK NOW | Mui Ne Hills BackpackersA good hostel with epic views at an affordable price. Dorm rooms start at $4.00 per night.BOOK NOW |
| EVA HUT Mui Ne Beach HostelThe ultimate backpackers paradise in Mui Ne. Dorm rooms starting at $6.00.BOOK NOW | Four Oceans ResortExtravagant rooms starting at $42.00 per night including a delicious breakfast.BOOK NOW |
How To Travel Mui Ne to Ho Chi Minh City
Whooooo, this is another pretty short journey of 225km, so it shouldn’t be too painful.
If you’re keen for more detailed info, check out my Mui Ne to Ho Chi Minh City guide.
Train: Okay, so annoying, but you’ll need to head 25 minutes to Phan Thiet first for the train station. Also, it’s a hassle, but there’s only one train operating this route each day. It leaves at 1:20 PM and gets to Ho Chi Minh City around 5:35 PM.
Bus: This is my recommendation since it’s pretty quick taking 5 hours and follows the main highway. Personally, I have done this route with The Sinh Tourist and had a stress-free experience.
Fly: Unfortunately, there is no airport in Mui Ne, but Phan Thiet is currently having one built.
| Transport Method | Time | Cost | Highlight | BOOK NOW |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | 4 hours + Taxi | from $7 | Comfortable journey | Book Here |
| Private Transfer | 3 hours | from $75 | Super comfortable journey | Book Here |
| Bus | 5 hours | from $7 | The cheapest way to travel | Book Here |
| Tourist Bus | 5 hours | from $12 | More comfortable than the regular bus | Book Here |
| Airport | N/A | N/A | An airport is currently being built outside of Mui Ne | N/A |
Ho Chi Minh City (Day 19 – 21)
We’ve made it 3 weeks to Ho Chi Minh City, our last stop in Vietnam! It’s a great place to finish up, with easy transport links to Cambodia or international flights.
Now, Ho Chi Minh City is big, busy, and full of history, but you’ve been to Hanoi, you’ll be able to deal no problem.
If I am being honest, Ho Chi Minh really wasn’t my favorite stop in Vietnam, but I was still glad that I visited.
Also, you need to dedicate some of your time to checking out the delicious foodie spots. It is well worth spending a couple of nights here, since it’s such a huge place with so much on offer.
I have written a full Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide if you’re keen to get into more detail.
What You Should Do In Saigon
Okay, let’s get into our last stop. I know, I’ve said Saigon wasn’t my favorite spot, but there are still super interesting things to do here.
This place is perfect for discovering some more of the history of this country.
Cu Chi Tunnels
These underground tunnels were super important during the War. It’s seriously amazing how they built them!
At one point, there were over 250 km of tunnels! Some even went from Saigon all the way to the Cambodian border! Which is absolutely crazy to think about.
It’s seriously super easy to book a Cu Chi Tunnel tour once in Ho Chi Minh City or in advance online. Though sometimes the travel agencies can be a bit sus, so read reviews and book online.
Reunification Palace
This is one of the most significant places to visit while you are in the city. It is the former presidential palace for Southern Vietnam, where Saigon fell to the north in what marked the end of the war.
You can see the palace from the outside for free. However, if you would like to go inside, there is an admission fee of 40,000 VND / $1.70.
War Remnants Museum
The museum is dedicated to the Vietnam War. Here you can come and learn all about it and what people had to suffer through.
The admission cost is 40,000 VND / $1.70 and you do need to set aside about 2 to 3 hours to see everything.
Ben Thanh Market
Alright, so, it’s kinda a tourist trap, but come on, can you really say you’ve seen this city if you skip Ben Thanh Market? Seriously, think about it.
Nah, but honestly, it’s well worth a walk around, try some local meals, maybe a bit of souvenir shopping, and simply people watch.
Do A Free Student Lead Tour
Okay, for something a bit different, book a free walking tour run by students. This is seriously the coolest thing I did while in the city and couldn’t recommend it enough!
We were led by English students, on the back of their motorbikes, weaving through the evening traffic, and eating at so many amazing local spots.
Where To Stay In Ho Chi Minh City
Okay, so, Saigon is freakin HUGE, which can make figuring out what location to stay feel a little bit like a fever dream. But don’t worry! Most backpackers and travelers end up in District 1.
It’s a pretty sweet spot perfectly set up for tourists with plenty of restaurants, hotels, hostels, and things to do. Plus, you’ll find the famous Ben Thanh Market and Bui Vien Street there (that’s where all the action is at night).
During our stay, we regretfully decided to stay in the cheapest place, and it wasn’t great. A lovely gentleman ran the hostel, but the dorms were just rooms in his house he’d filled with metal bunks.
???? How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: Baolau & 12.Go Asia
Extend Your Vietnam Itinerary
Maybe you want to make the most out of your tourist Visa and spend the entire 30 days exploring this incredible country!
Seriously, there is so much more you can do to turn this 3 week itinerary into a much longer journey. However, be aware you only really have an extra week available, since you don’t want to overstay!
Lots of backpackers grab a motorbike in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi and ride around Vietnam themselves.
It sounds like a blast, but keep in mind that riding isn’t always comfy, and you’ll get around slower than if you took a bus or train.
Da Lat
Da Lat is a nice mountain town that’s super popular for couples, and there’s a ton to do to keep you entertained.
Back when the French were here, they used it as a hill station where they could escape the heat. As a result you’ll find a bunch of colonial buildings, quite different from a lot of Vietnam.
Some travelers venture here instead of going to Mui Ne. It is not connected to the main railway network in Vietnam, so you’ll need to take a bus.
Da Nang
Da Nang is like the doorway to Hoi An since you’ll find the airport and train station here. This means heaps of people stop here on their way, me included!
Even with a short visit, you’ll find plenty to see and do. Marble Mountain is a spot that’s a must. It is also a popular spot for digital nomads, being a modern city right next to the beach.
Relax On Phu Quoc Island
Now, I highly recommend heading down off the coast of Vietnam, where you’ll find the island of Phu Quoc.
It’s a lil slice of paradise with white sand, gorgeous beaches, and palm trees blowing in the breeze. This is Vietnam’s version of the Maldives.
On land, you’ll find protected tropical rainforests, plenty of accommodation options, and great diving opportunities.
FAQs About This Ultimate Backpacking Vietnam Route
How long do you need to travel Thailand Cambodia and Vietnam?
If you are keen on traveling to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, I would recommend a minimum of 2 months, but you could make the most of 30 days entry visa and spend a month in each country.
Wrap Up: The Best 3 Weeks In Vietnam Itinerary
Now you’ve read all my recommendations on this incredible country, you should have no issues whatsoever coming up with your perfect Vietnam route!
Whether you decide to do it exactly as I’ve laid out, or add your own twist to it, no doubt you’ll have such an amazing time. This 3 weeks in Vietnam itinerary really has something for everyone, and I’m excited for you to give it a go.
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