Best Vietnam Holiday Itinerary Ideas for Senior 2024

Best Vietnam Holiday Itinerary Ideas for Senior 2024

Discover the best Vietnam holiday itinerary for senior travelers with Prime Travel. Learn how to plan a memorable trip to Vietnam that suits your budget, interests, and physical abilities. Explore the rich culture, history, and nature of this beautiful country with our expert tips and recommendations. 

Best places to visit for Vietnam holiday itinerary 

Vietnam is divided into three main regions: North, Central, and South. Each region has its own charm, beauty, and attractions. Here are some of the best places to visit in each region for senior travelers:

North

• Hanoi: The capital city of Vietnam is a blend of old and new, where you can explore the ancient temples, colonial buildings, museums, and markets of the Old Quarter, or enjoy the modern amenities, shopping, and entertainment of the New District. Hanoi is also a great base to visit other nearby attractions, such as Halong Bay, Sapa, or Ninh Binh.
• Halong Bay: One of the most iconic and scenic places in Vietnam, Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features thousands of limestone islands, caves, and rock formations rising from the emerald water. The best way to experience Halong Bay is by taking a cruise, where you can admire the stunning views, kayak, swim, or visit floating villages and pearl farms.

• Sapa: If you love nature and adventure, Sapa is a must-visit destination in the north. Sapa is a mountainous town that is home to various ethnic minority groups, such as the Hmong, Dao, and Tay. You can trek through the rice terraces, valleys, and villages, or take a cable car to the top of Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina.
• Ninh Binh is known as the “Halong Bay on Land” because of its stunning limestone karsts, caves, and rivers. You can take a paddleboat tour along the tranquil waterways, visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, climb to the top of Hang Mua for a panoramic view, or explore the wildlife and temples at the Van Long Nature Reserve and the Bai Dinh Temple.

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Central

• Hue: The former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue is a city that showcases the rich history and culture of the country. You can visit the Citadel, the royal tombs, the pagodas, and the museums, or take a boat ride along the Perfume River. Hue is also famous for its cuisine, which is influenced by the royal and Buddhist traditions.
• Hoi An: One of the most charming and romantic places in Vietnam, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the architecture and atmosphere of a 16th-century trading port. You can wander through the lantern-lit streets, browse the shops and galleries, or take a bike ride to the countryside and the beach. Hoi An is also a great place to learn about the local culture, such as taking a cooking class, a pottery class, or a lantern-making class.

• Da Nang: The largest city in central Vietnam, Da Nang is a modern and vibrant metropolis that offers a variety of attractions and activities. You can enjoy the sandy beaches, the amusement parks, the museums, and the nightlife, or visit the nearby landmarks, such as the Marble Mountains, the Son Tra Peninsula, or the Ba Na Hills.
• Nha Trang is a coastal city, famous for its beaches, resorts, and watersports. You can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea at Nha Trang Beach, Long Beach, or the nearby islands, such as Monkey Island, Hon Mun Island, or Yen Island. You can also try a mud bath, visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers, or join the nightlife at the Sailing Club or Skylight. Nha Trang is a perfect destination for sunseekers, thrill-seekers, and party-goers, as well as those who appreciate the beauty and diversity of the ocean.

South

• Ho Chi Minh City: The largest and most dynamic city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) is a hub of culture, commerce, and entertainment. You can experience the history, the architecture, the cuisine, and the nightlife of the city, or explore the surrounding attractions, such as the Cu Chi Tunnels, the Mekong Delta, or the Cao Dai Temple.
• Mekong Delta: The Mekong Delta is a region that covers the southernmost part of Vietnam, where the Mekong River splits into nine branches and flows into the sea. The Mekong Delta is known for its lush and fertile landscape, where you can see rice paddies, fruit orchards, coconut groves, and fish farms. The best way to discover the Mekong Delta is by taking a boat tour, where you can visit the floating markets, the islands, the villages, and the pagodas.

• Phu Quoc: If you are looking for a relaxing and tropical getaway, Phu Quoc is the perfect place for you. Phu Quoc is the largest island in Vietnam, located in the Gulf of Thailand. Phu Quoc boasts some of the most beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and national parks in the country, where you can swim, snorkel, hike, or just relax.
• Tay Ninh is a province in the southeast region of Vietnam, bordering Cambodia. It is known for its religious diversity, natural beauty, and historical significance. If you are looking for a destination that offers you a glimpse of the different aspects of Vietnam, Tay Ninh might be a good choice for you.

Best time to visit Vietnam for senior

Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate, which means that the weather and temperature vary depending on the region and the season. Generally, Vietnam has four seasons: spring (February to April), summer (May to August), autumn (September to November), and winter (December to January). However, the north and the south have different patterns of rainfall and temperature, while the central region has its own microclimate.

Here are some general advice on when to visit Vietnam for senior travelers:

• If you want to avoid the peak season, the best time to visit Vietnam is in the spring (February to April) or in the autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild, the crowds are less, and the prices are lower. For example, on the occasions of Lunar New Year (which takes place from late January to mid-February), Vietnamese people tend to travel a lot, especially to visit pagodas, spiritual tourism to pray for health and wealth in the new year. The crowded places are usually where there are many pagodas, temples such as Ninh Binh with Bai Dinh Pagoda attracting thousands of people to worship and visit. Therefore, if you do not like crowded places, you should avoid visiting spiritual destinations during this time.

• If you want to avoid the rainy season, the best time to visit Vietnam is in the winter (December to January) or in the summer (May to August), depending on the region. The north has a dry winter and a wet summer, while the south has a wet winter and a dry summer. The central region has a rainy season from October to December, and a dry season from January to September.
• If you want to avoid the hot season, the best time to visit Vietnam is in the spring (February to April) or in the autumn (September to November), when the temperature is moderate and pleasant. The north has a cold winter and a hot summer, while the south has a warm winter and a hot summer. The central region has a hot and humid climate all year round, with occasional typhoons.

Read more>>>Vietnam Weather in December: A Traveler’s Guide to the best trip

Here are some specific recommendations on when to visit each region or place for senior travelers:

Region / Place	Best time to visit	Why
North	March to May, October to December.	The weather is warm and dry, the flowers are blooming, and the festivals are happening.( March to May )  The weather is cool, cloudy and the flowers in mountainous areas start to bloom. ( October to December )
Central	April to May	The weather is sunny and mild, the beaches are inviting, and the cultural events are abundant.
South	December to February	The weather is cool and dry, the fruits are ripe, and the holidays are festive

Here is a calendar that shows the best time to visit Vietnam for senior travelers:

Month	North	Centre	South
January	Dry	Dry	Wet
February	Dry	Dry	Wet
March	Dry	Dry	Dry
April	Dry	Dry	Dry
May	Wet	Dry	Dry
June	Wet	Wet	Dry
July	Wet	Wet	Dry
August	Wet	Wet	Dry
September	Wet	Wet	Wet
October	Dry	Wet	Wet
November	Dry	Wet	Wet
December	Dry	Wet	Wet

Read more>>>Flights to Vietnam 2023: Best things you NEED to know before you go

Suggested Vietnam holiday itinerary for senior travelers

You are having trouble planning your trip in Vietnam, not sure where to go and what to do? Don’t worry, below Prime Travel will suggest our Vietnam holiday itinerary for you to refer to. To save time, instead of spending many days searching and worrying about everything before the trip, you can consider booking a tour to save time and money. 

Moreover, booking a tour will help you have more chances to hear the advice of local experts on the destination, and especially if you use the service of Prime Travel we will be ready to customize the itinerary to suit the needs and preferences of each traveler.

1. Best of Vietnam from North to South 14 days 13 nights

Day 1: Welcome to Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi, where our driver will meet you at the airport. If time allows, check in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day exploring the thousand-year-old capital city at your own pace.

Day 2: Hanoi Village exploration with bike – Night train to Lao Cai

Embark on a morning journey outside Hanoi to experience village life, traditions, and customs. Explore markets, old houses, worship temples, and communal spaces. Enjoy a food demonstration and lunch with a local family. In the afternoon, cycle through the picturesque Lien Mac area, interacting with locals and visiting a tofu-making family. Return to Hanoi for dinner and catch the night train to Lao Cai.

Day 3: Lao Cai – Sapa, Trek to Ta Phin

Arrive in Lao Cai by train and transfer to Sapa. After a short rest and breakfast, embark on an inspiring trek through fields, interacting with locals. Trek to Ta Phin village, home of the Red Dao people, for an ethnic-style dinner and homestay.

Day 4: Explore Ta Phin and return to Sapa

Engage in morning village activities, followed by a short wander or relaxation. Return to Sapa by car, check in at your hotel, and enjoy an easy walk to Cat Cat village. Participate in a traditional musical performance and spend the night in Sapa.

Day 5: Sapa – Night Train back to Hanoi

After breakfast in Sapa, explore the town markets or enjoy optional activities. Transfer to the Lao Cai train station for the night train back to Hanoi.

Day 6: Hanoi – Halong, Lan Ha Bay: Welcome on boat

Return to Hanoi early in the morning, refresh, and have breakfast. Depart for Halong City, where you’ll board a boat for a cruise in Lan Ha Bay. Explore the bay’s attractions, activities, and enjoy dinner onboard.

Day 7: Explore Lan Ha Bay, Back to Hanoi – Night train to Hue

Wake up in Lan Ha Bay, have breakfast, and continue exploring. Return to Hanoi, arriving at your hotel in the afternoon. Later, board the night train to Hue.

Day 8: See Hue Heritage on Boat & Bike to Rural Villages

Arrive in Hue and explore the Imperial City and Thien Mu Pagoda. In the afternoon, bike to the flower village of Tien Non, visit Thanh Tien paper flower making village, and explore the countryside before returning to your hotel.

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Day 9: Hue – Visit Royal tombs, Vietnam cyclo & Market visit – Transfer to Hoi An

Explore the royal tombs in the morning and enjoy a Vietnam cyclo ride. Transfer to Hoi An in the afternoon.

Day 10: Countryside Tour & Visit Ancient Town of Hoi An

Start your day with a visit to a fishing village, followed by cycling through paddy fields to the main town of Hoi An. Explore cultural sites and end the day at your hotel.

Day 11: Hoi An – HCM City, City Tour

Fly from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City in the morning. Enjoy a city tour, visiting Binh Tay Market, Thien Hau Temple, a lacquer-wares workshop, Jade Emperor Pagoda, War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Central Post Office.

Day 12: Tay Ninh and Cu Chi Tunnels

Depart for Tay Ninh to visit the Cao Dai Great Temple. After lunch, explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network used during wars. Return to Ho Chi Minh City for an overnight stay.

Day 13: HCM City – Visit the Fertile Mekong Delta

Explore Mekong Delta life in My Tho, visit a brick kiln, coconut-candy workshop, local market, and farmer workshop. Enjoy a boat trip, bicycle or Lambretta ride, and a hand-rowing sampan cruise. Return to HCM City in the evening.

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh Departure: Goodbye Vietnam

Have breakfast at your hotel, and depending on your flight time, enjoy some last-minute shopping. Our driver will transfer you to the airport for your departure. Goodbye, and hope to see you again soon!

2. The North Vietnam package 6 days

Day 1: Welcome to Hanoi – Arrival in Vietnam

At 6:00 PM, embark on a walking tour to explore Hanoi’s street food scene, indulging in local cuisines for an authentic Vietnamese culinary experience. Return to your hotel around 9:00 PM.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2: Explore the Thousand-Year Capital City – Hanoi

At 8:00 AM, commence a journey through the charming city of Hanoi. Begin with a visit to the Museum of Ethnology, providing insights into Vietnam’s diverse ethnic groups. Enjoy a hands-on experience making Vietnamese Egg coffee at a local coffee shop with French architecture.

Continue the tour with a visit to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university established in the 11th century. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore Quan Thanh Temple and conclude the day at Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and the Hanoi church area. Enjoy some tea and sunflower seeds at a local drinking shop. Return to your hotel around 5:00 PM.

Day 3: Hanoi – Ninh Binh Day Trip

Head to Ninh Binh province, south of Northern Vietnam. Visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital, to learn about the heroic history of two kings in the Chinese Wars.

Explore Hang Mua, where a panoramic view of Tam Coc and Ninh Binh city awaits. Enjoy a set menu lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, experience a sampan (bamboo boat) journey through three caves: Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. Return to Hanoi around 6:00 PM.

Day 4: Hanoi – Lan Ha Bay – Welcome on Boat

Check-in and board the cruise to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Dark and Bright Cave, enjoy bamboo boat rides or swimming, witness the Bay’s sunset, and participate in a Cooking Class.

Day 5: Explore Ha Long Bay – Hanoi

Engage in kayaking and swimming in the Tra Bau area, a famous filming location for Kong Skull Island. Return to the cruise, relax, pack your luggage, and enjoy brunch as the cruise heads back to the port. Arrive at Aeon Mall Long Bien around 3:00 PM for shopping.

Day 6: Hanoi Departure

Enjoy leisure time for shopping and relaxation. 

Read more>>>Vietnamese people: An essential cultural insight for travelers 2023

Conclusion

Vietnam has many attractions for senior travelers, especially for senior travelers, as it offers beauty, diversity, and affordability. In this blog, we have shared with you some of the best places, the best time, and the best Vietnam holiday itinerary to visit for senior travelers. We hope that you have found this blog helpful and informative, and that you are ready to book your Vietnam holiday. Thank you for reading and happy travels!

Check out Prime Travel’s tours here:

      Good Morning Hanoi with Motorbike

Authentic Vietnamese coffee workshop

Best of Vietnam from North to South

The North Vietnam package 6 days