Asian Adventure: A 14-Day Solo Journey Through Vietnam & China

Day 1 — Sunday, May 26, 2026

May in Hanoi is typically hot and humid with occasional rain showers. Expect temperatures around 30-35°C. Drink plenty of water and wear light clothing.

Arrival & Check-in · Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) & Transfer to Hotel

Land at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) and take a taxi or Grab transfer to your hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter. After check-in, you'll have time to relax.

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM · Welcome Dinner at 'Cha Ca Thang Long'

Enjoy a traditional Cha Ca, a famous grilled fish dish prepared right at your table.

Tip: Be sure to try all the side dishes and herbs with the fish.

8:00 PM - 10:00 PM · Old Quarter Night Market

Stroll through Hanoi's vibrant night market, which operates on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Here you'll find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food.

Day 2 — Monday, May 27, 2026

The day will be hot and humid. Plan for plenty of hydration breaks. Indoor activities (Mausoleum, Museum, Temple) offer a good respite from the heat.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM · Breakfast at Hotel or Local Cafe

Start your day with a Vietnamese coffee or a 'Banh Mi' at one of the many charming cafes.

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM · Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Museum

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (closed from September to November) and the Ho Chi Minh Museum to learn more about Vietnam's great leader.

Tip: Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered).

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM · One Pillar Pagoda (Chua Mot Cot)

A short walk from the Mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda is an architectural marvel made of wood and stone.

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM · Lunch: Pho at 'Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su'

Enjoy a classic bowl of Pho, Vietnam's national dish, at one of Hanoi's most renowned Pho restaurants.

Tip: Add fresh herbs and chili to taste.

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM · Temple of Literature & National University

Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university and an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city.

4:30 PM - 6:00 PM · Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple

Take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple, accessible via a charming red bridge.

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM · Street Food Tour with a Local Guide

Immerse yourself in the local food culture with a guided street food tour. Sample Bun Cha, Nem Ran (spring rolls), and more.

Tip: Be brave and try everything! It's a great way to experience the local cuisine.

Day 3 — Tuesday, May 28, 2026

The day will continue to be hot and humid. The cooking class and museum are good indoor activities. Allow for some relaxation time before the water puppet show.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM · Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for the day at your hotel.

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM · Vietnamese Cooking Class

Participate in a cooking class to unlock the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine. Learn how to prepare classic dishes like Pho or spring rolls.

Tip: A great souvenir is the recipes you'll take home!

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM · Lunch (prepared during cooking class)

Enjoy the dishes you prepared yourself for lunch.

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM · Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Discover the diversity of Vietnam's ethnic groups at the Museum of Ethnology, which also features traditional houses in its outdoor exhibition.

4:30 PM - 6:00 PM · Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Experience a traditional water puppet show, a unique art form originating from the Red River Delta.

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM · Farewell Dinner at 'Home Hanoi Restaurant'

An elegant dinner featuring traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a beautiful setting.

Tip: Book in advance to secure a good table.

Day 4 — Wednesday, May 29, 2026

May/June in Nanning is hot and humid with possible showers. Wear comfortable shoes for the park and be prepared for humid weather.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM · Breakfast at Hotel and Check-out

Enjoy a final breakfast in Hanoi and check out from your hotel.

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM · Travel from Hanoi to Nanning

Take a direct train (e.g., T8701) from Hanoi to Nanning. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours.

Tip: Book your train ticket in advance to secure seats.

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM · Arrival in Nanning & Check-in

Upon arrival at Nanning Railway Station, take a taxi or the metro to your hotel and check in.

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM · Lunch near Hotel

Find a local restaurant near your hotel for a quick lunch.

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM · Qingxiu Shan Scenic Area

Visit Qingxiu Shan, a picturesque mountain park featuring temples, pagodas, and beautiful gardens. Ideal for a relaxing afternoon stroll.

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM · Dinner at 'Laotou Hotpot' (老头火锅)

Try an authentic Chinese hotpot, a popular dish where you cook your own food in a simmering broth.

8:00 PM - 10:00 PM · Explore Zhongshan Road Night Market

Head to the Zhongshan Road Night Market, Nanning's most famous street food hub. Sample local snacks and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Tip: Have cash on hand and be ready to try many different things!

Day 5 — Thursday, May 30, 2026

The day trip to the waterfall can be strenuous. Ensure adequate sun protection and hydration. If it rains, there are covered walking paths.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM · Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel.

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM · Guangxi Museum & Botanical Garden

Visit the Guangxi Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. Afterwards, explore the adjacent Botanical Garden.

Tip: The museum is a great opportunity to escape the heat.

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM · Lunch: Guilin Rice Noodles (桂林米粉)

Try the famous Guilin Rice Noodles, a popular dish in the Guangxi region, at a local eatery.

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM · Daxin Detian Waterfall Tour (Full Day Trip to Surroundings)

Embark on a day trip to the Detian-Jiulong Waterfall (德天瀑布), one of the world's largest transnational waterfalls, on the border with Vietnam. This is a longer excursion but well worth it.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The journey is long, but the scenery is breathtaking.

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM · Dinner: Dim Sum at 'Tao Heung Restaurant' (稻香酒家)

Enjoy a wide selection of dim sum at one of the more popular Cantonese restaurants.

Day 6 — Friday, May 31, 2026

The journey from Nanning to Guangzhou is mostly on air-conditioned trains. Guangzhou in May/June is also hot and humid. The Pearl River in the evening offers a pleasant cool-down.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM · Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast in Nanning.

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM · Shopping at Wanda Plaza

Visit Wanda Plaza, a large shopping mall featuring international and local brands, restaurants, and entertainment options. Perfect for last-minute souvenirs.

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM · Lunch: Local Nanning Specialties

Before your departure, try some local Nanning specialties like Lao You Fen (老友粉) at a small eatery.

2:00 PM - 5:00 PM · Travel from Nanning to Guangzhou

Take the high-speed train from Nanning to Guangzhou. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours.

Tip: Book your ticket online or at the station in advance.

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM · Arrival in Guangzhou & Check-in

Upon arrival in Guangzhou, take a taxi or the subway to your hotel and check in.

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM · Dinner: Cantonese Cuisine at 'Liang Ji Restaurant' (亮记饭店)

Enjoy authentic Cantonese cuisine at a popular local restaurant known for its braised dishes.

9:00 PM - 10:30 PM · Stroll along the Pearl River

A relaxing evening walk along the Pearl River, offering views of Guangzhou's illuminated skyscrapers.

Day 7 — Saturday, June 1, 2026

The day will be hot and potentially humid. The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is partially outdoors, but indoor areas offer shelter. The Canton Tower is air-conditioned. In the evening, the Pearl River is pleasant.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM · Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel.

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM · Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (Chen Clan Academy)

Visit the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, an impressive example of traditional Cantonese architecture and craftsmanship.

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM · Lunch: Dim Sum at 'Tao Tao Ju' (陶陶居)

Enjoy a classic dim sum lunch at one of Guangzhou's oldest and most renowned tea houses.

Tip: Try the Har Gow (shrimp dumplings) and Siu Mai (pork dumplings).

2:30 PM - 5:00 PM · Canton Tower

Ascend the Canton Tower, Guangzhou's iconic landmark, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Tip: Visit the tower in the late afternoon to see the sunset and the illuminated city.

6:30 PM - 8:30 PM · Guangzhou Opera House & Haixinsha Island

Admire the stunning architecture of the Guangzhou Opera House and take a walk on Haixinsha Island, which is used for events.

9:00 PM - 10:30 PM · Dinner and Drinks in Tianhe District

Enjoy dinner at one of the many modern restaurants in Tianhe District, followed by a drink at a rooftop bar.

Day 8 — Sunday, June 2, 2026

The day involves a mix of outdoor and air-conditioned activities. The weather in Ho Chi Minh City in June is hot and humid with possible afternoon rain showers. Light clothing is especially important here.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM · Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a final breakfast in Guangzhou.

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM · Visit Yuexiu Park & the Five-Ram Statue

Yuexiu Park is Guangzhou's largest city park and home to the famous Five-Ram Statue, a symbol of the city.

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM · Lunch: Cantonese Duck Dishes

Try one of Guangzhou's famous duck dishes at a local restaurant.

2:00 PM - 5:00 PM · Shopping on Beijing Road

Beijing Road is a bustling shopping street featuring a mix of modern shops and historical sites preserved under glass.

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM · Transfer to Guangzhou Airport (CAN) and Flight to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)

Transfer to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) and take a flight to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN).

8:00 PM - 9:00 PM · Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City & Check-in

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN), take a taxi or Grab to your hotel in the city center. Check-in.

9:00 PM - 10:30 PM · Dinner and Relaxation

A late dinner near your hotel and relaxation after a day of travel.

Day 9 — Monday, June 3, 2026

Ho Chi Minh City is very hot and humid in June. The indoor museums offer a good respite, but Ben Thanh Market is bustling and can be hot. Drink plenty of water.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM · Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a delicious breakfast.

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM · Reunification Palace

Visit the Reunification Palace, a historical landmark where the Vietnam War ended.

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM · Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office

Admire the French colonial architecture of the Cathedral (currently under renovation) and the historic Central Post Office, which is still in operation.

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM · Lunch: Banh Xeo at 'Banh Xeo 46A Dinh Cong Trang'

Try Banh Xeo, a crispy Vietnamese crepe filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM · War Remnants Museum

A poignant museum depicting the effects of the Vietnam War on civilians. An important but intense experience.

4:30 PM - 6:00 PM · Ben Thanh Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of Ben Thanh Market. You'll find everything from clothing and souvenirs to fresh produce.

Tip: Bargaining is common here!

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM · Dinner: Street Food at Ben Thanh Market (Night Dining Area)

In the evening, the area around Ben Thanh Market transforms into a massive street food market. Sample various local delicacies.

Tip: Be adventurous and try different things. Look for stalls with many locals.

Day 10 — Tuesday, June 4, 2026

Ensure adequate sun protection and hydration during the Cu Chi Tunnels tour. The pagoda is a place of tranquility. Enjoy the cooler evening temperatures at a rooftop bar.

7:30 AM - 8:30 AM · Breakfast at Hotel

Have breakfast to fuel up for today's excursion.

8:30 AM - 2:00 PM · Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

Take a half-day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. This is a fascinating and intense experience.

Tip: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes as you might crawl through the tunnels. Caution: not suitable for those with claustrophobia.

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM · Lunch after Cu Chi Tour

Lunch at a local restaurant near the Cu Chi Tunnels or on the way back to Ho Chi Minh City.

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM · Jade Emperor Pagoda

Visit the beautiful Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of the most atmospheric temples in Ho Chi Minh City. Famous for its intricate wood carvings.

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM · Dinner at 'Cuc Gach Quan'

Enjoy an authentic Vietnamese meal at a charming restaurant known for its home-style, rustic cuisine.

9:00 PM - 10:30 PM · Saigon Rooftop Bar Experience

End the day with a cocktail at one of Ho Chi Minh City's many rooftop bars, such as 'OMG!' SkyBar or 'Chill Skybar', offering panoramic city views.

Day 11 — Wednesday, June 5, 2026

Be mindful of the intense sun during the Mekong Delta tour and wear a hat. Cholon can be hot and busy. The massage offers a welcome respite.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM · Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast in Ho Chi Minh City.

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM · Mekong Delta Day Tour (Half-Day)

Take a half-day tour to the Mekong Delta. Experience the floating markets, fruit orchards, and rural life along the river.

Tip: Wear a hat and sunscreen, and bring insect repellent.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM · Lunch on Mekong Delta Tour

A local lunch is often included in the tour package.

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM · Stroll through Cholon (Chinatown)

Explore the vibrant Cholon, Ho Chi Minh City's Chinatown. Visit Binh Tay Market and Thien Hau Temple.

4:30 PM - 6:00 PM · Massage Therapy for Relaxation

Indulge in a relaxing Vietnamese massage after an eventful day.

Tip: Look for reputable spa facilities.

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM · Farewell Dinner at 'Cuisine de Saigon'

Enjoy an upscale Vietnamese dinner in an elegant setting, featuring traditional dishes.

Day 11 — Wednesday, June 5, 2026

Be mindful of the intense sun during the Mekong Delta tour and wear a hat. Cholon can be hot and busy. The massage offers a welcome respite.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM · Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast in Ho Chi Minh City.

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM · Mekong Delta Day Tour (Half-Day)

Take a half-day tour to the Mekong Delta. Experience the floating markets, fruit orchards, and rural life along the river.

Tip: Wear a hat and sunscreen, and bring insect repellent.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM · Lunch on Mekong Delta Tour

A local lunch is often included in the tour package.

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM · Stroll through Cholon (Chinatown)

Explore the vibrant Cholon, Ho Chi Minh City's Chinatown. Visit Binh Tay Market and Thien Hau Temple.

4:30 PM - 6:00 PM · Massage Therapy for Relaxation

Indulge in a relaxing Vietnamese massage after an eventful day.

Tip: Look for reputable spa facilities.

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM · Farewell Dinner at 'Cuisine de Saigon'

Enjoy an upscale Vietnamese dinner in an elegant setting, featuring traditional dishes.

Day 12 — Thursday, June 6, 2026

Use the free day to seek indoor activities like shopping malls or air-conditioned cafes during the hot weather.

All Day · Free Day / Departure / Optional Extension

Today is a free day to buy last-minute souvenirs, relax, or enjoy optional activities. Depending on your flight schedule, you can either depart or spend another relaxing day.

Day 13 — Friday, June 7, 2026

Use the free day to seek indoor activities like shopping malls or air-conditioned cafes during the hot weather.

All Day · Free Day / Departure / Optional Extension

Today is a free day to buy last-minute souvenirs, relax, or enjoy optional activities. Depending on your flight schedule, you can either depart or spend another relaxing day.

Day 14 — Saturday, June 8, 2026

Use the free day to seek indoor activities like shopping malls or air-conditioned cafes during the hot weather.

All Day · Free Day / Departure / Optional Extension

Today is a free day to buy last-minute souvenirs, relax, or enjoy optional activities. Depending on your flight schedule, you can either depart or spend another relaxing day.

Good to know

• Download Offline Maps: Google Maps or other map apps allow you to download maps for offline use. This is super handy when you don't have an internet connection.
• Download a Translator App: A translator app like Google Translate is essential for communication in both countries, especially outside tourist areas.
• Install Local Transport Apps: In Vietnam, Grab (similar to Uber) is widely used. In China, you can use Didi Chuxing.
• Buy a Local SIM Card: For about €5-10, you can get a prepaid SIM card with plenty of data in Vietnam and China. This is often cheaper than roaming.
• Be Open to Street Food: The street food scene in Vietnam and China is fantastic and safe. Look for stalls with high turnover and many locals.
• Drink Only Bottled Water: Avoid tap water, both for drinking and brushing your teeth.
• Haggle at Markets: In many markets in Vietnam and China, haggling is common and expected. Start at about half the initial price and work your way up.
• Learn a Few Basic Phrases: 'Hello', 'Thank you', 'Please', 'Excuse me', and 'How much does this cost?' in the local language can open doors and show appreciation.
• Beware of Pickpockets: Be extra vigilant in crowded places and at markets.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking. Invest in a good pair.
• Stay Aware: Even though it's tempting to blend into the crowd, remain vigilant in larger groups.
• Stay Hydrated: Especially during the summer months, it can get very hot and humid. Drink plenty of water.
• Wear Light Clothing: Breathable fabrics are ideal for the tropical climate.
• Bring a Small Backpack for Day Trips: You can store water, sunscreen, a light jacket, and other essentials.