Exploring the vibrant landscapes and rich cultures of Vietnam and Laos provides visitors with a unique glimpse into the heart of Southeast Asia. While Vietnam is full of vitality and activity in its bustling cities and markets, Laos whispers spiritual tranquility in its peaceful temples and gentle river patrols.
The 7-9 day trip promises a balanced getaway across the two countries, interweaving the vibrant rhythm of Vietnamese life with the soothing embrace of Laotian scenery, providing a compact yet profound travel experience, intertwining cultural exploration with revitalizing leisure activities.
>>> Need more information on these two magnificent countries? To learn more, check out Laos Travel Guide and Vietnam Travel Guide.
Are 7-9 Days Enough to Visit Both Laos and Vietnam?
You may be wondering if it is possible to immerse yourself in the wonders of Vietnam and Laos in just 7-9 days. Sure, it’s a quick tour, but with thoughtful planning, it is enough to take you into a whirlwind of stunning sights, flavors, and cultures in these two countries. It’s about selecting the experiences that suit you, choosing quality over quantity so that your journey is both profound and delicious, not a frantic race from point A to point B.
- For backpackers: It is possible to venture into urban jungles and tranquil rural landscapes, soak up the vibrant nightlife, and immerse yourself in the melting pot of the country. A week is sure to awaken your desire to travel!
- For families: The journey will unfold through a tapestry of educational historic sites, kid-friendly adventures, and places where you can relax and unwind. There is something about this trip that will appeal to all generations!
- For luxury lovers: An opulent cruise in Ha Long Bay, the cozy comfort of a boutique hotel, and exquisite cuisine that combines local gastronomic flavors. Pure pleasure awaits you!
- For culture lovers: Travelers should expect a rich immersion in the stories, traditions, and rituals that punctuate daily life in Vietnam and Laos. Every day opens a new chapter in your cultural journey.
Best Time to Visit Vietnam and Laos
Weather features in Vietnam and Laos
Vietnam presents a fascinating range of climates. You can explore the misty, cool lands of the north and after a short trip south, soak up the tropical climate. What about Laos? The heat and tropics of the lowlands contact with the comfortable and cool places of the highlands.
Street in the autumn in Hanoi (Vietnam) and Luang Prabang (Laos)
If you have 7 to 9 days, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) may be your golden tickets for comfortable exploration.
Cultural Events and Festivals
Why not bring some charming local festival? You will have the opportunity to discover the colorful Spring Festival – Vietnamese New Year or participate in the charming Boun Pi Mai – Lao New Year. Although these activities are spectacular, they are accompanied by huge entertainment and high prices. Therefore, if you enjoy cultural immersion, please plan to visit during these festivals, but be sure to book everything to avoid any travel issues.
Spring Festival in Vietnam and Laos
High and Low tourist seasons
In peak season, it is time for busy streets and lively interactions! In Vietnam, it is usually from December to February, while in Laos, it is from November to March. If you enjoy quiet vacations and closer communication with locals, consider taking advantage of the off-season. Of course, you may have to face unpredictable weather, but in return, you will have fewer people and quieter explorations.
Hight season in Hoi An (Vietnam) and Luang Prabang (Laos)
Places to Visit in Vietnam and Laos in 7,8,9 days
Embark on an enchanting 7-9 day journey through Vietnam and Laos, where a focus on top attractions ensures that each day overflows with wonder and appreciation. Discover together the must-see sites of these two captivating countries:
Hanoi – The ancient and peaceful capital of Vietnam
Hanoi, which has preserved its rich history while embracing the new vitality of the present, invites you to stroll through its captivating blend of old and new. Whether you stroll through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter or find a moment of peace by Hoan Kiem Lake, your soul will be touched by the city’s enchanting spirit.
Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi
Ha Long Bay – Extraordinary and fascinating seascape of Vietnam
You will sail through the majestic limestone karts of Halong Bay, where every islet and cave holds secrets and tales of legendary figures and mythical creatures. As your cruise glides across the emerald waters, you will be enveloped in serenity and wonder, inspired by nature’s wondrous creations and lingering whispers of ancient folklore.
Sunset in Halong Bay
Da Nang – Coastal gem between tradition and innovation
Danang is elegantly located on the coastline, a sparkling gem, where traditional sand and modern waves gently collide. Imagine your footprints on the soft beach of My Khe Beach, as you explore their mysterious caves and peaks, the marble mountains filled with myths and natural beauty await to whisper ancient stories to you.
Golden Biridge in Danang
Ho Chi Minh City – Vibrant city of tradition and modernity
Discover Ho Chi Minh City, a fascinating metropolis where the echoes of history and the vivacious pulses of modern life blend into a vibrant tapestry of experiences. Your journey through its bustling streets, poignant museums, and bustling markets will reveal stories of resilience, evolution, and the harmonious balance between the cherished past and the vibrant present.
Sai Gon River – Ho Chi Minh City
Luang Prabang – Tranquility heartbeat of Lao spirituality
In the serene embrace of Luang Prabang, your mind will be gently caressed by the city’s timeless traditions, spiritual practices, and natural splendor. From the reverent whispers of dawn almsgiving ceremonies to the tranquil beauty of Kuang Si Falls, each moment becomes a gentle note in a melody of peace and reflection.
Wat Xieng Thong Temple- Luang Prabang- Laos
Vientiane – A leisure capital with spiritual echoes
Vientiane boasts tranquil boulevards and golden pagodas, inviting you to immerse yourself in a lazy rhythm and enjoy every moment in spiritual and colonial architecture. Strolling along the slowly flowing Mekong River, you will explore the enchanting Buddhist pagodas and relics of the past French era, while the soothing energy of this city will gently envelop your soul.
Vientiane, Laos
Suggested Vietnam – Laos 7,8,9 Days Itineraries
Each Vietnam and Laos itinerary in 7,8,9 days reveals a unique story of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures. Now discover our specially designed tours, each offering a different slice of magic and memories in these spellbinding countries.
Northern Vietnam & Laos Tour in 7 Days
This one-week itinerary focuses on northern Vietnam and Laos, with destinations including Hanoi, Halong, and Luang Prabang. You will have the opportunity to experience the best of these top tourist destinations: exploring the scenery, discovering luxury, learning culture, and experiencing the spirit. This journey from the plains to the islands and then to the mountains will leave you with unforgettable moments.
Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi, check into a hotel, and start exploring the vibrant city.
Day 2: Explore the rich culture of Hanoi, visit iconic attractions such as the Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and Single Pillar Pagoda, and embark on a cycling tour in the historic old city area. In the evening, you can choose to perform water puppets.
Day 3: Cruise in Halong Bay, enjoy stunning scenery, explore caves, and spa center, and showcase Vietnamese cuisine on board.
Day 4: Explore Dragon Bay before returning to Hanoi, then fly to Luang Prabang and check in at the hotel.
Day 5: Immerse yourself in the diverse history and culture of Luang Prabang, visit the Imperial Palace Museum, various temples, weaving villages, Phousi Mountain at sunset, and explore the night market.
Day 6: Attend the charity ceremony, then take a boat along the Mekong River to Pak Ou Cave, then tour the beautiful Radiant Waterfall, and explore Luang Prabang in the evening.
Day 7: Say goodbye to Luang Prabang and start your return journey or next destination.
>>> Check out the detailed itinerary at our Combined Tour to Vietnam and Laos in 7 Days to plan your best trip to Vietnam and Laos
From South Vietnam to Northern Laos Tour in 8 Days
During this 8-day itinerary, you will visit another city: Ho Chi Minh City, also known as the southern Vietnamese city of Saigon. Then, you can easily explore the four tourist cities of both countries, each with its own characteristics: full of vitality and cultural diversity, ancient and peaceful, beautiful and relaxing, real and spiritual.
Day 1: Arrive in Saigon, Vietnam, settle comfortably in the hotel, and explore the city in your leisure time.
Day 2: Embark on a sightseeing tour of Saigon, passing through attractions such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Kutch Tunnel, and enjoy a memorable water puppet and delicious dinner on the Saigon River, ending the day.
Day 3: Say goodbye to Saigon and head to Hanoi. After landing and checking in, ride your bike to visit the main attractions in Hanoi, such as Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and West Lake, and then spend a relaxing night at the hotel.
Day 4: Sail in the peaceful Halong Bay, discover caves and villages, and then return to the hotel in Hanoi for the night.
Day 5: Depart from Hanoi to the charming city of Luang Prabang in Laos, take a stroll in the bustling night market, taste a vegetarian buffet near Mayi Monastery, and then return to the hotel.
Day 6: Visit the historic temples Wat Sene and Wat Siengthong, then cruise the Mekong River, explore the Pak Ou cave, and discover various local villages before settling down at the Luang Prabang Hotel.
Day 7: During the morning prayer ceremony, quietly interact with Buddhist monks, followed by a day filled with markets, villages, charming waterfalls, and other beautiful places in Laos, and stay overnight at the hotel again.
Day 8: Free in the morning, last adventure in Luang Prabang, then check out smoothly and transfer to the airport to continue your journey.
>>> If you wish to travel to Vietnam Laos 8 days, check out Must-Sees of Vietnam and Laos in 8 Days to have a wonderful trip!
Nature and Culture trip to Vietnam Laos 9 days
Starting in Hanoi, transferring to Ha Long, and finally to Luang Prabang, this 9-day Vietnam and Laos itinerary has similar destinations to the 7-day itinerary but can offer lots of special different experiences. The program includes many cultural activities and is therefore ideal for those who want to experience human life in these two Southeast Asian countries.
Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi, settle down at the hotel, and explore the city in your leisure time.
Day 2: Explore Hanoi’s rich culture at attractions such as the Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and Single Pillar Pagoda, embark on a cycling tour in the old city area, and perform optional water puppet shows in the evening.
Day 3: Halong Scenic Cruise, an immersive experience of cave exploration, a spa, and a demonstration of Vietnamese cuisine onboard.
Day 4: Further explore Halong Bay, then return to Hanoi and fly to Luang Prabang.
Day 5: Cultural immersion in Luang Prabang: Visit the Palace Museum, several temples, Weaving Village, the sunset of Mount Fousi, and the bustling night market.
Day 6: Participate in traditional charity ceremonies, take a boat tour of Pak Ou Cave on the Mekong River, visit the beautiful Radiant Waterfall, and finally take a night walk in Luang Prabang.
Day 7: Spend a day at the Elephant Village Camp, experience Mahout’s life, bathe elephants in the Nam Khan River, and explore Tad Sae Falls.
Day 8: Participate in the rice production process at Living Land Rice Farm, have a practical experience with local farmers, and spend the day in a peaceful organic field.
Day 9: Departing from Luang Prabang.
>>> Are you in love with the magnificent nature and culture of Vietnam and Laos? Let’s check our detailed itinerary for the Nature & Culture Trip to Vietnam and Laos in 9 Days.
>>> Want more ideas for your trip to Vietnam and Laos? Check out Best Vietnam & Laos Tours for 2024/2025
Budget for a 7-9 days trip to Vietnam and Laos
A well-structured budget is required for a foreign trip that travels through the scenery and culture of Vietnam and Laos. It is crucial to focus on major expenditure items such as accommodation, food, transportation, and activities to maximize your adventure experiences in these beautiful Southeast Asian countries within 7-9 days.
Accommodation
- Vietnam: From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the peaceful scenery of Ho Chi Minh City, hotels, economy hotels, and other options offer prices as low as $10 – 30 per night. Consider living in the center of major tourist attractions to save on local transportation costs.
- Laos: Luang Prabang and Vientiane offer affordable accommodation ranging from $15 to $25 per night, with hotels offering local and intimate experiences. The distance from major attractions or transportation services ensures additional convenience and savings.
JW Marriott Hotel in Hanoi
Food & Drink
- Vietnam: Street cuisine is not only a culinary adventure, but also an economical way of dining, with meals costing no more than $1-$5. Dine at local markets or street stalls, offering authentic flavors at a small fraction of the restaurant’s price.
- Laos: In Laos, local restaurants and night markets offer a range of delicious dishes, priced at around $2 to $6 per meal, offering a rich dining experience without the need to pay.
Pho – one of the most delicious Hanoi Food
>>> Are you vegetarian? Check out Top 10 Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Vietnam
Transportation
- Vietnam: In cities like Ho Chi Minh City, the cost of local bus and bicycle short trips may be less than $1. For intercity travel, it is best to choose a night train or budget airline, with ticket prices ranging from $15 to $50, depending on distance and booking date.
- Laos: Dudu is a common mode of transportation that costs approximately $2-$10 depending on the route. For intercity travel, buses and small trucks are cost-effective options, with ticket prices typically ranging from $10 to $25.
Discover Hanoi by pedicab
Additionally, for a personalized travel experience, IDC Travel provides a private car rental service in Vietnam and a car with a driver in Laos, ensuring that you can visit these countries at your own pace and in complete comfort.
Tourism Activities
- Vietnam: Plan some experience fees, such as the Dragon Bay Cruise or exploring the Kuchi Tunnel. Group tours typically offer better value, ranging from $20 to $70, depending on the activity and duration.
- Laos: Temples, caves, and waterfalls may require an entry fee of $2 – $10. Organized one-day tours, such as Pak Cave or Kuang Si Falls, cost between $20 – $50, sometimes including meals and transportation.
Cu Chi Shooting Experience
Essential Tips for a 7-9 Day Multi-country Trip to Vietnam and Laos
When visiting a temple, one should dress modestly, always greet the locals with a smile, and be friendly by saying “Xin Chao” (Vietnamese for “Hello”) or “Sabaide” (Laos for “Hello”).
Ensure your suitcase is lightweight and intelligent, equipped with multifunctional clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and lightweight raincoats to prevent sudden rain. Beyond the rarely traveled roads, take time to experience authentic local experiences. Watch traditional water puppet performances in Vietnam and attend charity ceremonies in Laos, enriching your travel story with unique personal stories.
Enjoy the vibrant and delicious food scenes of Vietnam and Laos. Try Pho in a local Vietnamese market and taste Laap, a Laotian-style meat salad, at street stalls. But do not forget to choose cooked products.
The Art of Water Puppetry in Vietnam
Exploring the rich tapestries of Vietnam and Laos in 7,8 and 9 days can quickly and deeply understand Southeast Asia’s vibrant culture and stunning natural wonders. In these charming destinations, make every moment meaningful, where every day brings new adventures and discoveries. Start your exciting journey with IDC Travel, designed specifically for an immersive experience.
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