Welcome to the journey of a lifetime! Are you dreaming of an incredible trip through the heart of Southeast and East Asia but have limited time? This guide is for you. In just two weeks, you can explore the ancient wonders of Vietnam and the futuristic marvels of China, combining breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine into one unforgettable adventure. This itinerary is crafted to be efficient yet comprehensive, ensuring you experience the highlights of both fascinating countries.
14-Day Vietnam and China Trip
Combining two vast and culturally rich nations into a 14-day itinerary requires careful planning. This guide focuses on the most iconic and easily accessible locations in both countries to maximize your sightseeing. We will begin our journey in the vibrant capital of Vietnam, then fly to the historic heart of China before concluding in its modern metropolis.
- Destinations: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An (Vietnam); Beijing, Shanghai (China).
- Travel Style: A mix of cultural exploration, natural scenery, and urban adventure.
- Key Activities: Cruising a UNESCO World Heritage site, exploring ancient streets, walking the Great Wall, and marveling at futuristic skyscrapers.
Part 1: Exploring the Charm of Vietnam (Days 1-7)
We’ll begin our Vietnamese journey in the northern region, a center of history and culture. We’ll use a combination of domestic flights and land travel to cover key destinations efficiently.
Days 1-3: Hanoi & Ha Long Bay
Our journey begins in Hanoi, the bustling capital. After arriving at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), check into your hotel and dive into the city’s unique charm.
- Day 1: Hanoi: Stroll around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, explore the narrow, winding streets of the Old Quarter, and catch a traditional Water Puppet Show. Don’t miss the chance to try authentic Vietnamese street food like Phở and Bún chả.
- Day 2: Ha Long Bay: Take an early morning bus or private car to Ha Long Bay. Board a cruise ship to navigate the emerald waters, marveling at thousands of limestone karsts. You can enjoy activities like kayaking or exploring beautiful caves. Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see.
- Day 3: Return to Hanoi & Fly to Hoi An: Enjoy the sunrise on the bay before heading back to Hanoi. In the afternoon, take a domestic flight from Hanoi to Da Nang International Airport (DAD). From there, it’s a short taxi ride to the ancient town of Hoi An.
Days 4-7: The Ancient Beauty of Hoi An
The charming town of Hoi An is a perfect contrast to the bustling city life of Hanoi. With its lanterns, vibrant old houses, and peaceful river, it offers a serene and picturesque experience.
- Day 4: Hoi An Ancient Town: Dedicate your first full day to exploring Hoi An Ancient Town, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Cross the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, visit ancient houses, and get custom-made clothes. By night, the town shines brightly, adorned with a multitude of colorful lanterns.
- Day 5: Countryside & Cooking Class: Rent a bicycle to explore the lush green rice paddies and peaceful villages outside of town. In the afternoon, join a Vietnamese cooking class to learn how to make spring rolls and other local dishes.
- Day 6: Relax & Explore: Take a break from the itinerary. You can relax at An Bang Beach or take a day trip to the nearby My Son Sanctuary, another significant historical site.
- Day 7: Departure to China: Enjoy a final Vietnamese breakfast before heading back to Da Nang airport. You will take an international flight to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), marking the start of the second half of your journey.
Part 2: The Magnificent Journey Through China (Days 8-14)
After a seamless flight, you’ll land in Beijing, the historical and political heart of China.
Days 8-10: Imperial Grandeur in Beijing
Beijing is a city of imperial palaces, sacred temples, and timeless legends. You’ll need three days to cover its most iconic attractions.
- Day 8: Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City: After arriving in Beijing, settle in and then head to Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public squares. From there, enter the magnificent Forbidden City, the former imperial palace and the largest ancient palace complex in the world.
- Day 9: The Great Wall of China: A day trip to the Great Wall of China is a non-negotiable part of this itinerary. You can choose to visit the restored sections like Mutianyu or Badaling. Mutianyu is generally less crowded. The sheer scale and history of this UNESCO World Heritage site are awe-inspiring.
- Day 10: Temple of Heaven & Hutongs: Visit the Temple of Heaven, a stunning complex of imperial temples. In the afternoon, get lost in the traditional alleyways, or Hutongs, of Beijing by taking a rickshaw tour.
Days 11-14: The Modern Marvels of Shanghai
From Beijing, we will take a high-speed train to Shanghai, a city that showcases China’s modern and futuristic side. The journey takes about 5 hours.
- Day 11: Arrival & The Bund: Arrive at Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station and check in. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along The Bund, a historic waterfront that offers breathtaking views of the illuminated skyline and the Pudong financial district.
- Day 12: Pudong & The French Concession: Cross the Huangpu River to explore the Pudong district. Take a high-speed elevator to the observation deck of the Shanghai Tower or the Oriental Pearl TV Tower for panoramic city views. Later, wander through the charming streets of the French Concession.
- Day 13: Yu Garden & Nanjing Road: Explore the classical Chinese gardens and pavilions of Yu Garden. Afterward, you can enjoy some shopping or watch the crowds on Nanjing Road, which is one of the most bustling retail streets in the world.
- Day 14: Final Departure: Enjoy your last Chinese breakfast. Depending on your flight time from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping before heading home.
RELATED: How to Travel from Hanoi to Beijing by Train: A Comprehensive Guide
Essential Travel Tips
A trip of this magnitude requires careful preparation. Here are some key travel tips to make your journey smoother.
- Visa Requirements: Both Vietnam and China have visa requirements for many nationalities. Consult your local embassy or a reputable visa service well in advance to ensure you have the necessary documentation.
- Estimated Budget: A two-week trip for one person can range from $1,500 to $3,000+ (excluding international flights), depending on your travel style (budget, mid-range, or luxury).
- Getting Around: Domestic flights are the most efficient way to travel long distances in both countries. For short distances, use ride-sharing apps like Grab (in Vietnam) and Didi (in China) or local taxis. China’s high-speed train system is excellent for traveling between cities.
- Internet & Communication: Consider getting a local SIM card in each country. In China, you will need a VPN to access services like Google, Facebook, and Instagram.
With this itinerary, you’ll experience a great combination of natural wonders, historical depth, and vibrant city experiences. While challenging, the rewards of exploring these two incredible nations in a single trip are immeasurable.
