Photo of AI-MarcoPolo
AI-MarcoPolo
30 Nov 2025
Plan Together
Edit Trip Edit
Bookmark TripSave

Vietnam 12-Night Vegetarian Couple Escape

Vietnam 12-Night Vegetarian Couple Escape — Overview

This 12-night itinerary blends Vietnam’s dramatic natural wonders, rich historical sites and charming towns with relaxed beach time and romantic experiences tailored for a couple who prefer pure vegetarian food. Start in Hanoi to explore the Old Quarter, cultural landmarks and reflective museums, then head to scenic Ninh Binh and UNESCO-listed Halong Bay for tranquil boat rides and photography. Venture south to central Vietnam to discover Phong Nha’s caves, the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, and the imperial history of Hue with the coastal Hai Van Pass between. Finish with beach relaxation and island snorkeling in Da Nang and Phu Quoc, and immersive urban energy in Ho Chi Minh City including the Mekong Delta. Throughout the trip, choose vegetarian-friendly cruises, temple kitchens, local eateries and boutique restaurants that cater to plant-based diets, with plenty of opportunities for spa treatments, fine dining, shopping and memorable photos.

Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Hanoi Old Quarter & Hoan Kiem Lake

    The Old Quarter immerses you in Hanoi’s vibrant street life with narrow lanes, traditional shophouses, artisan workshops and bustling markets—perfect for photography, shopping and sampling vegetarian street eats. Hoan Kiem Lake offers a peaceful contrast: a scenic urban green space with the iconic Ngoc Son Temple and the Turtle Tower, ideal for morning walks, sunset photos and experiencing local life and coffee culture.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin2

    Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu)

    Vietnam’s first national university honors Confucian scholarship and offers beautifully preserved traditional architecture, tranquil courtyards and stone stelae listing past laureates. It’s a culturally rich, photogenic site that provides insight into Vietnamese history, education and intellectual heritage—great for couples who enjoy historical landmarks and serene sightseeing.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin3

    Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton)

    Hoa Lo Prison presents a sobering, informative look at Vietnam’s colonial and wartime past through exhibits, preserved cells and personal stories of prisoners. Visiting offers historical context about French colonial rule and the Vietnam War era, deepens understanding of the country’s struggles and resilience, and is important for those interested in history, museums and meaningful, reflective experiences.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin4

    Halong Bay (Cruise departure area - Ha Long City)

    Halong Bay’s UNESCO-listed seascape features thousands of limestone karsts and emerald waters—taking a cruise lets you explore caves, kayak among dramatic islets, enjoy sunset and sunrise views, and relax on deck. It’s ideal for couples seeking romantic scenery, photography, boat excursions and some onboard spa or fine dining experiences with vegetarian options available on many cruise operators.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin5

    Trang An Landscape Complex (Ninh Binh)

    Trang An offers a peaceful boat ride through a karst river landscape with caves, temples and rice paddies framed by towering limestone cliffs. The slow, scenic sampan trips provide countless photo opportunities, cultural sites to visit along the water and a tranquil countryside contrast to Vietnam’s cities—excellent for nature lovers, photography and gentle outdoor exploration with easy access to vegetarian meals in nearby towns.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin6

    Bai Dinh Pagoda

    Bai Dinh Pagoda is Vietnam’s largest pagoda complex, known for its grand scale, impressive bronze statues and panoramic mountain views. The site blends spiritual atmosphere, ornate architecture and expansive grounds to wander—making it a compelling stop for culture, photography and contemplative walks. Vegetarian food is commonly offered at temple kitchens and nearby eateries, fitting well with a plant-based itinerary.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin7

    Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (Phong Nha)

    Home to some of the world’s most spectacular caves and karst landscapes, Phong Nha-Ke Bang offers guided cave tours, boat trips through underground rivers and opportunities for easy trekking and wildlife spotting. The dramatic caverns (like Paradise and Phong Nha caves) and remote jungle scenery are perfect for adventurous couples, photography and quiet nature time; local guesthouses and tour operators can accommodate vegetarian meal requests.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin8

    Hoi An Ancient Town

    Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, well-preserved merchant houses and riverside cafes create a romantic, highly photogenic atmosphere for strolling, shopping for tailor-made clothing and enjoying vibrant night markets. Its compact layout, cycle-friendly lanes and many vegetarian-friendly restaurants make it ideal for couples seeking culture, relaxation, boutique shopping and culinary exploration in a charming, slow-paced town.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin9

    My Son Sanctuary

    The My Son Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage site of Cham temple ruins set in a lush valley—offering a glimpse into the region’s pre-Angkorian history, distinctive brick architecture and spiritual heritage. Visiting provides historical depth to central Vietnam’s past and excellent opportunities for evocative photography amid ancient ruins surrounded by greenery, while nearby Hoi An makes vegetarian dining accessible before or after the visit.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin10

    Marble Mountains (Ngũ Hành Sơn)

    A cluster of five limestone and marble hills studded with caves, pagodas and viewpoints—offering short climbs, panoramic views over Da Nang and the coast, and intricate stone-carving workshops. It’s great for photography, light hiking, spiritual sites and picking up artisan souvenirs; vegetarian options are available in nearby cafes and temple stalls.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin11

    Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue

    Hue’s Imperial City is a vast, atmospheric complex of palaces, gates, temples and royal halls that reveal Vietnam’s Nguyen Dynasty history and imperial architecture. Exploring the citadel and nearby royal tombs provides cultural depth, striking photo backdrops and a sense of historical significance—suitable for couples who enjoy heritage sites and slow-paced sightseeing with vegetarian-friendly restaurants in town.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin12

    Hai Van Pass (scenic coastal drive)

    Hai Van Pass is a dramatic mountain-road stretch with sweeping coastal vistas, emerald sea views and photographic overlooks between Da Nang and Hue. The drive or motorbike ride is ideal for couples seeking memorable scenery, short stops for photos and the thrill of a scenic road trip; picnic-style vegetarian snacks or stops in coastal towns make it easy to maintain a plant-based itinerary.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin13

    My Khe Beach (Da Nang)

    A long, sandy shoreline with clear waters and gentle waves, My Khe is perfect for relaxing beach time, sunrise photography and water sports like paddleboarding or surfing. Its nearby upscale hotels and beachfront cafes offer spa and fine-dining experiences with vegetarian options, making it a great spot for couples seeking sun, seaside walks and comfortable amenities.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin14

    Cu Chi Tunnels (near Ho Chi Minh City)

    The Cu Chi Tunnels provide a vivid, hands-on look at the subterranean network used during the Vietnam War, with preserved tunnel sections, historical exhibits and guided explanations of guerrilla life. Visiting offers important historical context, a striking educational experience and powerful photo opportunities; it complements museum visits in Ho Chi Minh City for travelers interested in modern Vietnamese history.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin15

    War Remnants Museum (Ho Chi Minh City)

    The War Remnants Museum presents extensive exhibits, photographs and artifacts documenting the Vietnam War’s impact, offering a sobering, informative perspective on conflict, human stories and postwar recovery. It’s essential for visitors who want to understand Vietnam’s recent history, with thought-provoking displays that deepen cultural awareness and provide meaningful context for other historical sites in the region.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin16

    Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City)

    Ben Thanh Market is a lively central market where you can shop local handicrafts, textiles and souvenirs, practice bargaining and photograph colorful stalls. For couples it’s a fun spot to explore urban life, buy tailor-made clothing or artisan goods, and find vegetarian-friendly snacks and Vietnamese ingredients to try; its central location also makes it a convenient starting point for city walks and nightlife.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin17

    Mekong Delta - My Tho / Ben Tre (boat trip)

    A boat trip in the Mekong Delta offers tranquil river scenery, visits to orchards, coconut groves and small villages, and hands-on cultural experiences like sampan rides, local music and home-cooked meals. It’s ideal for couples seeking relaxed nature time, photography of riverside lifestyles and sensory immersion in rural Vietnam; many homestays and riverside eateries can prepare pure vegetarian meals on request.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin18

    Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

    This iconic French-colonial cathedral in central Saigon is notable for its twin bell towers, red-brick façade and photogenic square—offering a peaceful architectural stop amid the city’s bustle. Visiting provides a glimpse into Ho Chi Minh City’s colonial past, easy photo opportunities and proximity to other central attractions; nearby cafes and vegetarian restaurants make it simple to continue a plant-based itinerary after your visit.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin19

    Phu Quoc Island - Beaches & Snorkeling

    Phu Quoc offers pristine beaches, clear waters and vibrant coral reefs ideal for snorkeling, swimming and relaxed island time—perfect for couples wanting sun, seaside spa treatments and romantic sunsets. The island has upscale resorts and beachside eateries that frequently accommodate vegetarian diets, plus opportunities for photography, boat trips and gentle exploration of national park trails and local markets.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin20

    Saigon Opera House (Ho Chi Minh City)

    The Saigon Opera House is an elegant French-colonial landmark hosting ballet, classical concerts and cultural performances in a beautifully restored venue. Attending a show provides a refined evening option for couples who enjoy arts and nightlife, with excellent photo opportunities of the façade and easy access to nearby fine-dining and vegetarian-friendly restaurants for a pre- or post-performance meal.
    Open Google Maps Button

Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    An Vegetarian Restaurant (Hanoi)

    4.9
    $$$$

    An Vegetarian Restaurant (Hanoi)

    Highly regarded vegetarian spot offering creative plant-based Vietnamese dishes in a cozy setting—great for experiencing local flavors without meat.
    4.9
    $$$$
    Picture for An Vegetarian Restaurant (Hanoi)
  • Restaurant Icon

    Minh Chay Vegan Restaurant (Hanoi)

    4.2

    Minh Chay Vegan Restaurant (Hanoi)

    Popular vegan chain known for refined, varied dishes and reliable vegetarian options—good for couples seeking healthier, flavorful meals near the Old Quarter.
    4.2
    Picture for Minh Chay Vegan Restaurant (Hanoi)
  • Restaurant Icon

    The Vegetarian (Hoi An)

    4.7

    The Vegetarian (Hoi An)

    Well-reviewed vegetarian restaurant in Hoi An serving an extensive menu of Vietnamese and international plant-based dishes—convenient for visitors exploring the ancient town.
    4.7
    Picture for The Vegetarian (Hoi An)
  • Restaurant Icon

    Chay Garden (Ho Chi Minh City)

    4.7
    $$$$

    Chay Garden (Ho Chi Minh City)

    A noted vegetarian restaurant offering contemporary plant-based Vietnamese cuisine with attractive plating—ideal for a relaxed dinner after city sightseeing.
    4.7
    $$$$
    Picture for Chay Garden (Ho Chi Minh City)
  • Restaurant Icon

    Raika Vegetarian (Da Nang)

    4.9
    $$$$

    Raika Vegetarian (Da Nang)

    Popular vegetarian-friendly spot near My Khe Beach serving diverse vegan options and fresh local produce—perfect after a day at the seaside or visiting Marble Mountains.
    4.9
    $$$$
    Picture for Raika Vegetarian (Da Nang)

Hotels

  • Hotel Icon

    Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

    4.6

    Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

    A luxurious colonial-era hotel in the heart of Hanoi’s French Quarter with elegant rooms, acclaimed spa services and easy access to the Old Quarter and cultural sites—ideal for comfort, fine dining and vegetarian requests.
    4.6
    Picture for Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
  • Hotel Icon

    Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh

    4.4

    Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh

    A high-end resort near Trang An and Bai Dinh offering spacious villas, tranquil grounds, a wellness spa and personalized service—great as a relaxing base for exploring Ninh Binh’s landscapes with vegetarian dining options.
    4.4
    Picture for Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh
  • Hotel Icon

    Alba Wellness Valley (Phong Nha)

    Alba Wellness Valley (Phong Nha)

    A boutique resort focused on wellness near Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park featuring comfortable bungalows, spa treatments and easy access to cave tours—suitable for couples seeking nature, relaxation and vegetarian-friendly meals.
    Picture for Alba Wellness Valley (Phong Nha)
  • Hotel Icon

    Hotel Royal Hoi An - MGallery

    4.4

    Hotel Royal Hoi An - MGallery

    A stylish riverside hotel in Hoi An’s historic area with refined rooms, a rooftop bar, spa and close proximity to the Ancient Town—perfect for romantic evenings, shopping and a variety of vegetarian dining choices.
    4.4
    Picture for Hotel Royal Hoi An - MGallery
  • Hotel Icon

    The Reverie Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)

    4.6

    The Reverie Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)

    An opulent, design-forward hotel in District 1 offering lavish rooms, top-tier spa facilities and fine-dining venues that accommodate vegetarian preferences—centrally located for sightseeing, markets and nightlife.
    4.6
    Picture for The Reverie Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)

Local Events & Happenings

Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    23 ho chi min 24 in the morning flight to go to da nang and from there hoi an 25 hoi an 26 go to Hanoi morning 27 Hanoi 28 go with the train to binh ninh and sleep there one n...

    13 days in vietnam

    23 ho chi min 24 in the morning flight to go to da nang and from there hoi an 25 hoi an 26 go to Hanoi morning 27 Hanoi 28 go with the train to binh ninh and sleep there one n...

    /r/VietNam
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Or else, if you love beaches - Go to Phu Quoc ... Yes, its best time to go to Da Nang/Hoi An. Beaches are nice now. Next week gonna be very hot in the north and central as its...

    12 days in Vietnam, advice please.

    Or else, if you love beaches - Go to Phu Quoc ... Yes, its best time to go to Da Nang/Hoi An. Beaches are nice now. Next week gonna be very hot in the north and central as its...

    /r/VietNam
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Hi everyone, I'm planning a honeymoon trip to Vietnam and have drafted a 10-day tour from December 7th (Ho Chi Minh City) to December 16th (Hanoi)

    10-day Tour for Vietnam in early december

    Hi everyone, I'm planning a honeymoon trip to Vietnam and have drafted a 10-day tour from December 7th (Ho Chi Minh City) to December 16th (Hanoi)

    /r/VietNam
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    427 votes, 22 comments. I recently completed a 9-day Vietnam trip covering Sapa, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Da Nang, and Hoi An, with my partner. Sharing our

    9-Day Vietnam Trip Itinerary (North to Central) June 2025

    427 votes, 22 comments. I recently completed a 9-day Vietnam trip covering Sapa, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Da Nang, and Hoi An, with my partner. Sharing our

    /r/travel
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    HCM (3 nights): street food, markets, local neighborhoods Hue (2 nights): imperial history, central cuisine, Perfume River Hoi An / Da Nang (4 nights): old town, beach time Ph...

    12 Day Vietnam Itinerary

    HCM (3 nights): street food, markets, local neighborhoods Hue (2 nights): imperial history, central cuisine, Perfume River Hoi An / Da Nang (4 nights): old town, beach time Ph...

    /r/travel
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    It will be much smoother, as you can book the loop with a hostel in Hanoi (I did it with Bong- I also wasn't even staying with them) and they organise an early coach to H...

    2 Week Vietnam Itinerary

    It will be much smoother, as you can book the loop with a hostel in Hanoi (I did it with Bong- I also wasn't even staying with them) and they organise an early coach to H...

    /r/solotravel
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Day 1: Arrived in Hanoi and powered through the day with 0 sleep to counter jet lag. I got a massage, some food, checked out the Dong Xuan market, and did a street food tour i...

    Trip Report: Vietnam 12 days

    Day 1: Arrived in Hanoi and powered through the day with 0 sleep to counter jet lag. I got a massage, some food, checked out the Dong Xuan market, and did a street food tour i...

    /r/solotravel
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    I'll be traveling to Vietnam in 3rd week of Feb for an all boys trip (24 to 28). I did some research and came up with this itinerary. Do you guys have any recommendations...

    10 day - Boys trip to Vietnam in Feb

    I'll be traveling to Vietnam in 3rd week of Feb for an all boys trip (24 to 28). I did some research and came up with this itinerary. Do you guys have any recommendations...

    /r/VietNam
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    10 votes, 49 comments. Here's what I plan to cover- Hanoi (2 days) Da Nang (2 days) Phu Quoc (3 days) Ho Chi Ming City (2 days) Any suggestions on

    Planning a 9 day trip to Vietnam - Should I skip Hanoi and fly to Da Nang directly?

    10 votes, 49 comments. Here's what I plan to cover- Hanoi (2 days) Da Nang (2 days) Phu Quoc (3 days) Ho Chi Ming City (2 days) Any suggestions on

    /r/VietNam
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    If youre doing Mekong+Cu Chi then yes maybe you have the right amount of days in Saigon/HCMC. Honestly, now that I know you wont be doing motorbikes, the Ha Giang Loop is the ...

    3 weeks in Vietnam plan! Any tips & tricks, advices, recommendations, reviews.

    If youre doing Mekong+Cu Chi then yes maybe you have the right amount of days in Saigon/HCMC. Honestly, now that I know you wont be doing motorbikes, the Ha Giang Loop is the ...

    /r/VietNam
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    North (56 days) Hanoi Ninh Binh Ha Long/Bai Tu Long Central (45 days) Da Nang + Hoi An (super romantic and easy to explore) South (34 days) Ho Chi Minh City Mekong Delta or Ph...

    Some tips for first time travellers to Vietnam?

    North (56 days) Hanoi Ninh Binh Ha Long/Bai Tu Long Central (45 days) Da Nang + Hoi An (super romantic and easy to explore) South (34 days) Ho Chi Minh City Mekong Delta or Ph...

    /r/travel
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Hi everyone! Im looking for advice on things to do, avoid, or improve in my 17-day itinerary for Vietnam this March. Any tips are greatly

    17 Days in Vietnam: Tips and Itinerary Suggestions

    Hi everyone! Im looking for advice on things to do, avoid, or improve in my 17-day itinerary for Vietnam this March. Any tips are greatly

    /r/solotravel
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    10 votes, 55 comments. We need some travel advice please. We're a family with kids age 7 and 12, visiting in January for ~12 days. We are tight on

    Halong Bay vs. Ninh Binh?

    10 votes, 55 comments. We need some travel advice please. We're a family with kids age 7 and 12, visiting in January for ~12 days. We are tight on

    /r/VietNam
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    And you should skip Danang stay and stay in Hoi an ( one of my favorite place of the trip) ... Thanks for your insights! Appreciate it. Well, a Vietnamese friend of mine recom...

    One month Vietnam trip itinerary suggestions

    And you should skip Danang stay and stay in Hoi an ( one of my favorite place of the trip) ... Thanks for your insights! Appreciate it. Well, a Vietnamese friend of mine recom...

    /r/solotravel
    View on RedditView on Reddit

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Jon Worthy - Doing the Best I Can - Instrumental

    Jon Worthy - Doing the Best I Can - Instrumental

    Gentle traditional melodies that evoke Vietnam’s rivers and rice fields—perfect for slow drives through the countryside and boat trips in the Mekong or Ninh Binh.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Jon Worthy - Doing the Best I Can - Instrumental
  • Music Icon

    Melody Gardot - Morning Sun

    Melody Gardot - Morning Sun

    A tranquil, uplifting acoustic track ideal for sunrise walks along Hoan Kiem Lake or quiet beach mornings in Phu Quoc.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Melody Gardot - Morning Sun
  • Music Icon

    Chi Pu - Em Nói Anh Rồi

    Chi Pu - Em Nói Anh Rồi

    Soft, atmospheric music with subtle Vietnamese instrumentation that complements evening strolls beneath Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Chi Pu - Em Nói Anh Rồi
  • Music Icon

    J. L. Marshall - A Breeze Through the Window

    J. L. Marshall - A Breeze Through the Window

    Cinematic, ambient piece with gentle waves and strings to match the serene limestone karsts and onboard cruise moments in Halong Bay.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for J. L. Marshall - A Breeze Through the Window
  • Music Icon

    Destroyer - I Want This Cyclops

    Destroyer - I Want This Cyclops

    A lively, rhythmic track blending urban grooves and traditional motifs—good for exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter and bustling markets.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Destroyer - I Want This Cyclops
  • Music Icon

    Taylor Swift - Delicate

    Taylor Swift - Delicate

    Reflective piano-and-strings composition that pairs well with exploring Hue’s Imperial City and ancient tombs.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Taylor Swift - Delicate
  • Music Icon

    River Whyless - Motel 6

    River Whyless - Motel 6

    An energetic yet spacious track with driving rhythm and airy synths to capture the thrill of the scenic Hai Van Pass drive.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for River Whyless - Motel 6
  • Music Icon

    EIRLYS - Cave Light

    EIRLYS - Cave Light

    Mysterious, echoing ambient tune suited to cave explorations in Phong Nha–Ke Bang and contemplative underground boat rides.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for EIRLYS - Cave Light
  • Music Icon

    bl4ck m4rket c4rt - Good Morning Texts

    bl4ck m4rket c4rt - Good Morning Texts

    Upbeat, percussive world-music piece reflecting the colors and bustle of Ben Thanh Market and local bazaars; great for shopping and street photography.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for bl4ck m4rket c4rt - Good Morning Texts
  • Music Icon

    Leviro - Sunset on The West Coast

    Leviro - Sunset on The West Coast

    Romantic, mellow ballad perfect for beach sunsets in My Khe or Phu Quoc and intimate dinners with vegetarian cuisine.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Leviro - Sunset on The West Coast