Best Time to Visit

Based on our experience, the best time to plan your visit to Vietnam is from November to April. The weather is relatively stable and not too extreme during this time, with no scorching heat or flood.

However, Vietnam is located in a tropical monsoon climate zone and has a long coastline, so each region will have different climate characteristics.

best time to visit vietnam for 3 weeks

November to April is the best time to visit Vietnam

The northern region is typically hot and humid with heavy rainfall from May to October. From November to April, the weather is cooler and more suitable for tourism. However, December and January can be freezing.

The central region of Vietnam usually experiences a prolonged hot and dry season from February to August. The peak of intense heat is around July and August when temperatures can reach 40 degrees Celsius. From October to December is the rainy season, with a higher chance of flooding.

Central Vietnam beach

February to August showcases the most beautiful of Central Vietnam's beaches

The southern region has more stable weather compared to the other two regions. The average temperature throughout the year is around 28 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit the southern region is from November to April when the weather is pleasant. From May to October, there is a higher amount of rainfall.

Attractions

Below is a list of must-visit attractions that you should include for 3 weeks in Vietnam.

Sapa

Sapa is a misty mountain city with a cool climate and a unique way of life. Here, you can admire the terraced fields cascading down the mountainsides.

rice paddies in vietnam

Local people harvest ripe rice on terraced fields

Halong Bay

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay will captivate you with its majestic landscape of tall limestone karsts and enchanting caves.

halong bay - vietnam itinerary 3 weeks

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Hanoi

The capital city of Vietnam offers a unique blend of history, culture, and vibrant city life. Hanoi is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Vietnamese experience.

vietnam itinerary 3 weeks

Hanoi Old Quarter during the Lunar New Year

Ninh Binh

Known as the "Halong Bay on land, Ninh Binh will mesmerize you with its stunning natural scenery. Features towering limestone mountains, picturesque rivers, and lush greenery.

vietnam itinerary 3 weeks - ninh binh rice field

Experience the breathtaking allure of Ninh Binh

Hue

Discover Vietnam's imperial city, where history comes alive through ancient citadels, royal tombs, and the tranquil beauty of the Huong River.

vietnam itinerary 3 weeks

The newly completed Kien Trung Palace in Hue Imperial City

Hoi An

Experience the enchanting charm of Hoi An, where ancient buildings, colorful lanterns, and a bustling riverside come together to create a captivating atmosphere.

vietnam itinerary 3 weeks - hoi an at night

Hoi An ancient town at night

Da Nang

Da Nang is a coastal city in Vietnam. It entices travelers with its pristine beaches, vibrant city life, and rich cultural heritage.

da nang golden bridge - vietnam itinerary 3 weeks

The Golden Bridge - an iconic symbol of Da Nang

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is a coastal paradise in Vietnam. It beckons visitors with its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant marine life.

vietnam itinerary 3 weeks

Explore the coastal paradise for 3 weeks in Vietnam

Da Lat 

What makes this region an ideal destination for 3 weeks in Vietnam? That is due to its cool climate, picturesque landscapes, and charming French colonial architecture.

vietnam itinerary 3 weeks

Da Lat is an ideal destination for 3 weeks in Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is the bustling metropolis of Vietnam. It offers a vibrant blend of culture, history, and modernity.

vietnam itinerary 3 weeks

Landmark 81 - the symbol of the city's development

Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta is a captivating region known for its lush green landscapes, vibrant floating markets, and rich cultural heritage.

vietnam itinerary 3 weeks - cai rang float market

Cai Rang floating market in Can Tho

Detail Itinerary for 3 Weeks in Vietnam

How to travel Vietnam in 3 weeks? Based on our experience, we present the best 3 weeks in Vietnam details for you to explore our country in-depth. 

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival 

  • Arrival at Noi Bai Airport.

  • Explore Hanoi Old Quarter.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour

  • Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature.

  • Visit Hoa Lo Prison.

  • Watch a puppet show in the evening. 

Day 3: The World Heritage Site - Halong Bay

  • Bus to Halong Bay.

  • Have lunch on the cruise.

  • Admire limestone karsts and caves (Options: Thien Cung Cave, Fighting Cocks Island, Titop Island).

  • Kayaking (Options: Luon Cave, Ba Trai Dao, Co Cave).

Day 4: Halong Bay - Ninh Binh

  • Exercise Tai Chi on the sundeck

  • Visit Pearl Farm, Ba Hang fishing village

  • Bus to Ninh Binh

Day 5: Explore nature in Ninh Binh

  • Take a boat ride to admire the scenery (Options: Trang An, Tam Coc)

  • Climb to the top of Mua Cave to enjoy panoramic views of the city

  • Birdwatching (Options: Thung Nham Bird Garden, Van Long Nature Reserve, Cuc Phuong National Park).

  • Visit the temples (Options: Bai Dinh Pagoda, Non Nuoc Pagoda, Bich Dong Pagoda).

  • Return to Hanoi.

Day 6: Sapa

  • Take a limousine shuttle to Sapa.

  • Visit Cat Cat Village.

  • Explore the Sapa night market.

Day 7: Fansipan - Sapa Villages

  • Take the cable car to the top of Fansipan.

  • Trekking Lao Chai - Ta Van route ( Lao Chai Village, Ta Van Village).
 

vietnam itinerary 3 weeks - fansipan peak

Conquer the peak of Fansipan 

Day 8: Free time - Return to Hanoi

  • Cloud hunting.

  • Have lunch at a local restaurant.

  • Return to Hanoi.

  • Flight to Hue.

Day 9: Hue City Tour

  • Visit the Imperial City of Hue.

  • Explore Thien Mu Pagoda.

  • Discover the tombs of the kings (Options: Khai Dinh, Minh Mang, Tu Duc,...).

  • Visit the traditional incense-making village - Xuan Thuy.

Day 10: Hue - Da Nang

  • Bus to Da Nang.

  • Visit Ba Na Hills, Golden Bridge.

  • Freetime at night

Day 11: Da Nang - Hoi An 

  • Bus to Hoi An 

  • Explore Bay Mau Coconut Forest with its unique activities

Day 12: My Son Sanctuary

  • Explore the My Son Sanctuary 

  • Come back to the Hoi An city center

  • Watch Hoi An Memories Show at night.

Day 13: Hoi An Free Day

  • Relax at An Bang beach

  • Take a bike tour around Hoi An Old Town.

Day 14: Hoi An - Nha Trang

  • Bus to Da Nang International Airport.

  • Flight to Cam Ranh International Airport.

  • Bus to the city center.

  • Freetime at night.
 

vietnam itinerary 3 weeks

Uncover the mysteries at the My Son Sanctuary

Day 15: Nha Trang City Tour

  • Visit Ponagar Temple Nha Trang.

  • Explore the Institute of Oceanography.

  • Visit Nha Trang night market.

Day 16: Hon Tam Island

  • Take a boat to Hon Tam Island.

  • Relax on the beach and dive into the ocean to admire coral reefs.

Day 16: Nha Trang - Da Lat

  • Bus to Da Lat.

  • Explore Bao Dai Palace (Options: Palace 1, 2 or 3).

  • Visit the flower gardens.

Day 17: Da Lat - Ho Chi Minh City

  • Bus to Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Relax and free time at night.

Day 18: Ho Chi Minh City Tour

  • Visit historical landmarks (Options: War Remnants Museum, Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral, Independence Palace).

  • Explore the culinary delights at Ben Thanh Market.

  • Watch A O Show at Saigon Opera House.

Day 19: Mekong Delta 

  • Bus to Can Tho.

  • Take a boat on the Cai Rang floating market.

  • Have lunch at a local restaurant.

  • Bus to Ben Tre.

  • Visit the coconut forests in Ben Tre.

  • Watch how to make coconut candy.

  • Come back to Ho Chi Minh City at night. 

Day 20: Cu Chi Tunnels

  • Bus to Cu Chi District. 

  • Experience a day as a Viet Cong Soldier.

  • Try shooting.

  • Watch a short film about the history of the tunnels.

Day 21: Departure

  • Buy souvenirs

  • End the journey
 

Looking for more information? Our article on travel guide to Vietnam!

Vietnam with numerous captivating destinations that will make your 3 weeks in Vietnam truly memorable. New Asia Tours hopes that the detailed information provided will assist you in planning your trip. If you need further information about Vietnam package tours, please don't hesitate to contact us for the best service.