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10 Days in Vietnam: An Awesome 10 Day Vietnam Itinerary

10 days in Vietnam is the ideal trip to take for first-timers in Southeast Asia. It’s so easy to get about and there is so much to see and do that you are guaranteed to have the most amazing trip.

I’ve put together a 10 day Vietnam itinerary to take all the hassle out of planning your trip and to make sure that you can pack all Vietnam’s highlights into a short period of time.

Vietnam has become a really popular destination for travellers and with good reason. It has charming old towns, fascinating temples, mountains full of rice paddies and beautiful limestone karst islands. The food is delicious and the culture fascinating. There is an obvious well-trodden backpacker route making getting about, super easy and convenient.

If you’re short of time and only have 10 days in Vietnam, it can be a challenge to pack in all of the best bits. But I’ve been busy putting together a perfect 10 day Vietnam itinerary that does just that.

Now you should know, this is a fast-paced Vietnam itinerary and in an ideal world, you’d take longer to explore more leisurely. But if you are restricted by finances or annual leave and can only manage 10 days in Vietnam, then this itinerary is for you!

If you have more time in Vietnam, you can still follow this 10 days in Vietnam itinerary but you will be able to allow yourself the luxury to stay longer in each place and explore at a more leisurely pace.

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What you can expect from this article...

• 1 10 day Vietnam Itinerary Overview
• 2 A Map of this 10 Day Vietnam Itinerary
• 3 Things to know before visiting Vietnam
• 4.1 Getting to Vietnam
• 4.2 Getting around Vietnam
• 4.3 Booking your Vietnam Trip
• 5.1 Day 1 Hanoi
• 5.2 Day 2-3 Sapa Hill Tribe Trekking
• 5.3 Day 4-5 Halong Bay Cruise
• 5.4 Day 6-7 Hue
• 5.5 Day 8-9 Hoi An
• 5.6 Day 10 Ho Chi Minh
• 5.7 Packing for Vietnam
• 6.1 How much does 10 days in Vietnam cost?
• 6.2 Is Vietnam safe to travel alone?
• 6.3 What injections do I need for Vietnam?
• 6.4 Is there malaria in Vietnam?
• 6.5 Do I need a visa for 10 days in Vietnam?
• 6.6 What is the best time to visit Vietnam?
• 6.7 Are there any festivals in Vietnam worth going to?
• 7 The Best Group tours in Vietnam
• 8.1 Read Next…

10 day Vietnam Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Hanoi – Experience bustling city life

Day 2-3: Sapa – Mountain trekking amongst the rice paddies.

Day 4-5: Halong Bay – Overnight sailing trip

Day 6-7: Hue – Royal city

Day 8-9: Hoi An- UNESCO heritage town

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh – Including a trip to the Mekong Delta

A Map of this 10 Day Vietnam Itinerary

Things to know before visiting Vietnam

Population 95 million

Capitol city Hanoi

Currency Vietnamese Dong. As of May 2019, 10,000 dong = $4 or £3

Language Vietnamese

Cuisine Lots of tasty flavoursome noodles and soups. Less spicy than Thai cuisine. Ingredients often used include fish sauce, lemongrass, ginger, soy sauce and coriander.

Weather Vietnam has both a lot of sunny weather but also a lot of rain and it is often very humid. Most hotels are air-conditioned or more budget hotels have fans at a minimum.

Planning your trip to Vietnam

Getting to vietnam.

There are 5 international airports in Vietnam which are;

• Tan Son Nhat – Ho Chi Minh city (south)
• Noi Bai – Hanoi city (north)
• Danang – Danang city (central)
• Cam Ranh – Nha Trang city (south)
• Phu Quoc – Phu Quoc Island (island)

There are also land boarder crossings with China, Laos and Cambodia.

For the purposes of this 10 day Vietnam itinerary, you will need to fly into Hanoi and out from Ho Chi Minh airports. You could also choose to spend your 10 days in Vietnam in reverse order.

Getting around Vietnam

Given that there is a typical Vietnam backpacking route, travel between all of Vietnam’s highlights is super easy. You have the choice of flying, taking a bus or travelling by train. You could even hire a motorbike but be warned that the traffic in the cities is hectic and other road users are a little bit crazy!

I would recommend either flying between places which is quick and affordable, or taking overnight trains. I personally feel that every Vietnam itinerary should include at least one overnight train journey as it is an experience in itself.

Most overnight trains have cabins shared between 4 people on 2 bunk beds. It was surprisingly comfortable and always a fun experience. I would, however, always advise you to keep valuables in a locked small bag which you can tuck under your pillow. Then make sure you always lock the door when you are sleeping.

Booking your Vietnam Trip

There are a few resources that I use personally and recommend for booking any trips.

I book my flights with Skyscanner . They have the option to leave the dates blank so that you can find the cheapest dates to fly. You can even leave the location blank if you just want to find the best flight deals for a given time.

I book accommodation with Booking.com . It’s a simple process and you can narrow down your search based on hotel review scores, facilities, price and location. You can get a discount code here.

If you are looking for a group tour, then I always recommend G Adventures . We’ll talk more about group tours in Vietnam shortly…

As for public transport, a great option is 12GoAsia . You simply type in your dates of travel and start and end point and it’ll give you options for all modes of transport and links for you to book tickets. Simple!

Right, with the practical aspects under our belts, let’s crack on with the fun bit, what you’ll be doing on your 10 day Vietnam itinerary…

Your 10 day Vietnam Itinerary

Day 1 hanoi.

Hanoi is a love-it-or-hate-it city. Many find it chaotic, overwhelming even. However, many fall in love with its bustling streets teeming with market vendors, packed out with motorbikes sometimes carrying whole families! This ancient city, Vietnam’s capital city, has a rich history, beautiful architecture and a bustling old quarter filled with temples, pagodas, restaurants and cafes.

Hanoi is where you will begin your 10 day Vietnam adventure so arrive early and spend the day there exploring its culture, history and unique character. Just watch out for those reckless motorbikes…

Things to do and see in Hanoi

• Visit Hoan Kiem Lake including the serene temple Ngoc Son Pagoda. If you want a bit of peace and quiet in Hanoi, this is the place to go.
• Explore the Old Quarter , the bustling heart of this ancient city.
• Take a Vespa tour of the city . If you can’t beat the millions of motorbikes in the city, join ’em!
• Experience a Vietnamese puppet show performed in a pool of water in a modern-day theatre, depicting old traditional puppet shows in flooded rice paddies.
• Take a cooking lesson and learn how to make some delicious Vietnamese meals.
• Take a street food walking tour and sample some of the cities best food.
• Sample the nightlife which you can read more about in this Hanoi travel guide .

Where to stay

If you follow this exact Vietnam itinerary, you won’t need accommodation tonight as your overnight train trip will be included in your Sapa package. That said, if you get to Hanoi a day or two early, then there are some fantastic options for where to stay.

Accommodation in Hanoi is an absolute bargain so no matter what your budget is, you will no doubt find somewhere fantastic to stay. Here are a few options for any budget starting at just $3!

• Shoestring Legia’s Hostel
• Budget Malo hotel
• Affordable luxury Hanoi L’heritage Diamond Hotel and Spa
• All-out luxury O’Gallery Majestic Hotel and Spa

Day 2-3 Sapa Hill Tribe Trekking

I think this may have been my favourite part of my trip to Vietnam. The mountains near Sapa are at higher altitude providing welcome relief from the muggy heat in Hanoi. The rice paddies and mountains create the most spectacular scenery. But most of all, I loved learning about the local culture, sleeping on a mattress in a house in the village perched on the top of a mountain.

By day we trekked through rice paddies and tiny villages and in the evening we ate local food and drank rice wine whilst exchanging travel stories .

This 2-day 3-night tour of Sapa will include your train journey, guided hike and simple hotel and fits in perfectly int this action-packed itinerary! If you want the homestay experience, you will need to take a slightly longer 3-day tour but this one fits in perfectly with your overall itinerary.

How to get there

The sleeper train will be included in your Sapa trip if you book the tour above. Most trains depart in the evening around 9 or 10 pm and arrive in Sapa early morning after an 8-hour journey. Accommodation will be in shared sleeper carriages with 2 bunk beds. If you don’t fancy a sleeper train then you will need to factor in an extra day to take a bus trip instead.

Day 4-5 Halong Bay Cruise

I first became aware of Halong Bay when I watched the Top Gear Vietnam Special episode. As Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond goofed around building their own boats to explore Halong Bay, I became a little bit obsessed with the beautiful limestone karst islands. It was one of the major pulling factors which had me arranging a sabbatical in Southeast Asia.

I actually visited Halong Bay twice. The first time was just for a day trip but it was not enough time and within a week I was back again, this time for a 2 day sailing trip on a traditional Vietnamese junk boat.

Spending 2 days on a sailing trip here gave me a good feel for the area visiting different islands, caves and viewpoints. One of the main highlights of my trip was kayaking around these beautiful islands.

Most cruises on Halong Bay, including this one, will include a bus transfer from Hanoi.

You have a couple of options here. Most Halong Bay tours include transfers to and from Hanoi. You could take the transfer then fly from Hanoi to Hue the next day. Alternatively, you could skip the transfer back and instead take an overnight train to Hue the same evening arriving early morning so that you have a full day to explore.

Day 6-7 Hue

Hue, previously the capital city, is steeped in a rich history and home to the ancient imperial city is a great place to spend a day or two. In an ideal world, you would spend at least 3 days here but since we’re restricted to only 10 days in Vietnam, 2 days there will be sufficient to see the highlights although it will be a packed few days!

Things to do in Hue

• Visiting Hue Imperial City is an absolute must-do in Hue. This place was previously home to the Vietnam emporers and is being slowly restored to its former glory. I’d recommend getting up early to spend a few hours here before the crowds arrive leaving you with plenty of time to visit other temples or take a motorbike tour.
• Explore the beautiful Perfume River by taking a boat trip or just strolling along the shores.
• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda . This was one of my favourite temples and has beautiful views overlooking the Perfume River.
• Take a motorbike tour of the countryside visiting villages and rice paddies. Or if photography is your thing then you could take a motorbike photography tour of Hue with a professional photographer.
• If you’d rather escape to the countryside, a day trip to Mooc Spring where you can hike, swim, kayak and admire the beautiful scenery..

Since you only have two days in Hue and a lot to see, it may be a good idea to take a city tour which encompasses multiple city highlights. This particular Hue tour will take you to the Imperial Citadel, on a river cruise along the Perfume River, into the markets and nearby countryside. You will also visit the Tomb of King Tu Duc and witness locals making traditional Vietnamese hats.

The best way to get to Hue is to catch an overnight train from Haiphong near Halong Bay. This way, you will arrive early, ready to make the most of your time in Hue.

An alternative option would be to fly to Da Nang then hop on a bus to Hue. However, this will take the best part of 5 hours which would eat into your time in Hue.

Read Next: A 3 day Da Nang itinerary

Where to stay in Hue

Shoestring Shark Homestay

Budget Stop and Go Boutique Homestay

Affordable luxury Rosaleen Boutique hotel

All-out luxury Azerai La Residence

Day 8-9 Hoi An

Hoi An was my favourite town in Vietnam. The Old Town in Hoi An oozes charm with its colourful buildings packed with temples and pagodas and decorated with thousands of lanterns.

It has a really relaxing vibe and you could spend two days just sampling all the amazing food in all the lovely cafes and restaurants and browsing the quaint shops. But Hoi An really comes to life in the evening when the river is lit up with colourful lanterns.

Things to do in Hoi An

• Go Shopping. Hoi An is the best place to buy souvenirs. Known for its paper lanterns, silk and jewellery shops, shopping is one of the most popular things to do in Hoi An .
• Get custom-made clothes. It’s common to have clothes made for you by experienced Tailors in Hoi An. It is really reasonable and I had several pieces created especially for me by Yaly Couture.
• Enjoy the cafe culture. Hoi An has some of the best cafes, restaurants and bars. Make sure you take some time just to enjoy the cafe culture at a relaxed pace.
• Relax on the beaches. I’m so sad that I didn’t discover how beautiful the beaches in Hoi An are until after I had left! Whilst Hoi An’s old town is easy to get distracted by, take at least a few hours out of your day to relax on the beautiful beaches. You could even take a snorkel trip.
• Given that Hoi An has some of the best restaurants, it would make sense that it’s a great place to take a cooking class too. This particular class includes a tour of the market and a ride down the river in a traditional basket boat.
• Make sure you visit the Japanese bridge , an iconic spot in Hoi An. This well-preserved bridge was built to improve relations between the Japanese and Chinese inhabitants in the 1590s.
• If you are looking for a day trip from Hoi An to experience more rural Vietnam, then consider a cycling tour of the countryside or a trip to the ancient ruins at My Son .

You could consider hiring a motorbike from Hue to drive yourself along the Hai Van pass to Hoi An. This is a particularly scenic mountain coastline view spectacular views. If you’re not comfortable diving it alone, then there are motorbike tours which start in Hue and end in Hoi An.

Alternatively, the bus will take about 3 hrs 30 minute or the train a little less at 3 hours. I suggest you take an early bus so that you can make the most of your 2 days in Hoi An.

Try to stay either near the beach (if you want relaxation) or near the old quarter (if you want to be pat of the action.) Here are a few great options for every budget…

Shoestring Hoi An Love.Ly Hostel

Budget Vinci Villa Hoi An

Affordable luxury Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel and Spa

All out luxury Anantara Resort

Day 10 Ho Chi Minh

Your final stop is Ho Chi Minh, otherwise known as Saigon. I found Ho Chi Minh to be a lot more modern and built up than ancient Hanoi city centre. I don’t think I have ever seen so many motorbikes in my life!

Whilst Ho Chi Minh is a convenient place to end and also a great location to take day trips to the Mekong Delta and to Chu Chi Tunnels, if you had to shorten this trip at all, I would recommend ditching Ho Chi Minh. That said, I’ve always preferred smaller towns and rural paces when I travel so you may still love Ho Chi Minh – I know many people do. This is the reason there is only 1 day in Ho Chi Minh but if you do have more time, you may want to tag an extra day or two here so you can arange some great day trips.

Things to do in and near Ho Chi Minh

• Since you’re short of time in Saigon, consider taking a city tour to see all the best bits in a short period of time. Visit Cha Tam Church, Ben Thanh market and the Museum of War Remnants to learn about the Vietnamese war.
• Visit the Mekong Delta and experience village life on the banks of the Mekong Delta including a floating market.
• Visit Chu Chi Tunnels . This one is not for the claustrophobic! You can climb through the extensive network of tunnels which people hid in during the Vietnamese war.
• Enjoy the nightlife. Saigon has a brilliant bar scene so celebrate a brilliant trip to Vietnam with a few drinks on the town before your trip comes to an end.

How to get from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh

The best way to reach Ho Chi Minh from Hoi An is by flying from Danang which is a half hour drive from Hoi An.

Alternatively, you could get an overnight train but this will be a long one, 19 hours! So you would miss out on some precious time in your 10 day Vietnam itinerary!

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh

Try to stay somewhere central since you only have one full day to explore Saigon. Here are some great accommodation options for every budget.

Shoestring B&P Just like home

Budget Full House Homestay

Affordable luxury Silverland Yen Hotel

All-out Luxury The Reverie Saigon Residential Suites

Packing for Vietnam

This Vietnam itinerary includes the opportunity to visit some temples so you will need to bring clothes which are appropriate temple attire. This usually involves covering your shoulders and knees.

Maxi skirts and dresses, t-shirts with short sleeves or kaftans to cover your shoulders make ideal outfits to keep you both cool in the warm weather and also respectable!

The skirt here comes in a zillion different designs and won’t need to be ironed so it makes an ideal travel skirt. Again, this kaftan has a variety of styles and patterns. I wear mine on the beach or to temples, and I also pair it with leggings in the evening to avoid being bitten by midgies!

Vietnam has its fair share of beautiful beaches and islands and this itinerary includes a 2 days boat trip in Halong Bay where you will be swimming a lot. So make sure you take swimwear and a quick dry towel. I personally, choose to wear more conservative swimsuits in Southeast Asia so as not to offend any locals. Whilst bikinis are fine to wear, try to get one which actually covers your butt!

This itinerary does include a few bus and train journeys so be prepared by carrying a kindle fully stocked with some great reading material (such as this list of the best travel novels .)

The tap water in Vietnam is not safe to drink. Save money and help the environment by taking a Water-to-go Bottle. They contain a filter making any water safe to drink (except for seawater as it can’t filter salt.) I absolutely love mine and have it in 2 different sizes. You can get 15% off by quoting GLOBETROTTERGP at the checkout on their website .

Anti-theft luggage comes in really handy on the night trains and these days, they make some really nice bags, like this one…

Frequently asked questions about Vietnam

How much does 10 days in vietnam cost.

Vietnam is very cheap to travel to. You can find a bed in a decent hostel for about $3! For $15 you’ll be able to get yourself a really nice double hotel room and you can even find a 5-star hotel for less than $100 a night in Hanoi!

Transport is also cheap. A Bus between Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh (an 860Km journey) will cost around $20, a sleeper train around $35 and a flight just $45.

Eating out is very affordable with many restaurants charging around $2-3 for a meal. You can eat even cheaper if you eat street food alone. Here is a good breakdown of costs in Vietnam .

You can easily survive on $25 per day (in fact this would be quite luxurious!) Your biggest splurges will be on your Halong Bay cruise and Sapa trek but even with these accounted for, you may only need to spend $400-500 + cost of flights to see Vietnam in 10 days.

Is Vietnam safe to travel alone?

I felt pretty safe in Vietnam though I was travelling with a group . As places in Southeast Asia go, Vietnam is considered fairly safe and has a low rate of violent crime against tourists.

There is a risk of theft and pickpocketing and as such, you should always stay aware of your surroundings and belongings, especially when travelling on night trains.

I always recommend getting a theft proof bag for peace of mind when you are in a busy environment.

Vietnam is a fairly conservative country so it would be wise to dress appropriately to avoid any unwanted male attention. But in general, I didn’t get unwanted attention in Vietnam.

What injections do I need for Vietnam?

Most of the immunisations required are the ones you will have had anyway as long as you had your vaccinations as a child, for example, MMR, diphtheria, tetanus etc. They also recommend considering Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid and Rabies. You can check whether any of these are indicated for you and your style of travel on the Fit For Travel Website .

When it comes to Rabies, I usually only recommend having it if you will be staying somewhere very rural as it only gives you additional time to get to a hospital. You will still need to have the immunoglobulins if you have potentially been exposed to Rabies (eg through a dog bite.) As it is an expensive vaccination to get and on this Vietnam itinerary, you will always be able to reach a hospital quickly, I would not think it is necessary.

Yellow fever certification is not required for travel in Vietnam.

Is there malaria in Vietnam?

There is Malaria in Vietnam but the risk is low. For all places featured on this 10 day Vietnam itinerary, the risk is considered very low and no antimalarials are advised. If you are going anywhere not on this itinerary, then you should check this Malaria map to see if you need antimalarials.

Do I need a visa for 10 days in Vietnam?

There are several nationalities which do not require a visa for a short stay. Most people from surrounding Southeast Asian countries will not require a visa for up to 30 days. UK nationals can enter Vietnam visa-free for up to 15 days. US, Canadian and Australian residents are not eligible and will require a visa. You can check if you need a visa here .

What is the best time to visit Vietnam?

Whilst the climate varies throughout the country, in general the best time to visit Vietnam is either side of the rainy season which is between May and September. In the months of February-March and September-October, you are more likely to have dry weather. That said, I was there in early May and the weather was mostly beautiful with just the occasional cloudy day.

Are there any festivals in Vietnam worth going to?

‘Tet’ is the New Year celebrations usually celebrated in January or February. This is usually the biggest, most celebrated festival with religious rituals during the day and big parties at night often with fireworks.

Hoi An Lantern festival is one of the most popular with tourists. Hundreds of lanterns float down the river once every month.

The Hue Arts festival which takes place twice a year is fantastic for culture vultures. With dance, music and theatres performances as well as boat races and even human chess games!

The Best Group tours in Vietnam

Group tours can be a brilliant way to travel and I’ve been on many adventure group trips myself. In fact, my first trip to Vietnam was with G Adventures. The companies I have travelled with the most and always recommend as sustainable, ethical adventure companies, are G Adventures and Intrepid Travel . Here are a few of the best group tours in Vietnam that you may want to consider if you think group travel could be your thing too…

Classic Vietnam, Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh.

This is a classic (mid-range) G Adventures tour which roughly follows the same itinerary as above but without the trekking in Sapa. Instead, it spends a little more time in Hoi An and Saigon. It’s a way of seeing Vietnam in 10 days without the hassle of organising it yourself. You could always choose to do a Sapa add-on with Intrepid travel .

Vietnam family adventure .

If you are travelling as a family unit then consider a G Adventures family trip in Vietnam. This trip for families with children over 6 years of age, travels from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh including a visit to the Mekong Delta.

North Vietnam Coastal Cruising

Since most of the best bits of Vietnam are found not far from the coast, adventure cruising with Intrepid Travel can be a great way to see Vietnam. This trip is a ‘comfort’ trip meaning the accommodation is a little luxurious. There are up to 49 passengers and the boat stops at most of the places on this Vietnam itinerary but with the addition of a few places like the spectacular Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

Best of Vietnam

This G Adventures tour follows almost the exact same route as in this 10 day Vietnam itinerary (including Sapa) only it takes 15 days and spends longer in Hoi An, Saigon and on the Mekong Delta.

Tailormade Vietnam

If you like the idea of having the trip organised for you but you don’t want to travel as a group then a G Adventures tailormade adventure might be right for you. You can choose to pay extra for a tour guide to stay with you or just enjoy being transferred between your hotel, transport and accommodation with no need to travel with people you don’t know beforehand.

To check out more G Adventures trips, visit the G Adventures and Intrepid websites by clicking these links…

Vietnam Reading Material

If you’re the type of traveller who still loves to carry a guidebook, (I don’t blame you, I’m book obsessed,) then the two I recommend are The Lonely Planet and Rough Guide books.

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Read Next…

• Cambodia and Vietnam with G Adventures; a Review
• A Complete Southeast Asia Packing List
• A 10 Day Thailand Itinerary
• A 2 week Indonesia Itinerary
• Backpacking Laos Guide

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A perfect new zealand north island itinerary for 7-10 days, the best da nang itinerary – how to plan 3 days in da nang, the perfect 10 day sri lanka itinerary – for wildlife, scenery & culture, this post has 2 comments.

HI – Thanks for all your info 🙂 SO helpful! Any reco’s on the best airlines to fly? I’m coming from the States in Cali. Reading reviews and it’s overwhelming how bad a lot of them are! 🙁

Im not sure from the US as Im based in the uk! Sorry! But I always check deals on skyscanner

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Refuse Dystopia

Charlie Don't Surf – Vietnam Travel Diary

From the archive: four weeks on the road with two dear friends, reflections on the ethics of tourism and travel, and lessons gleaned from emptying one's heart of purpose and plan..

Author’s Note: This travel diary was initially posted on my old website blog (charlesmcbryde.com) in 2020, during the worst of the pandemic. It was written over a series of fevered, Bourbon-infused evenings at my childhood home in South Carolina while I was pining away for the now inaccessible possibility of international travel. It is reproduced here in full. Footnotes provided for context.

Charlie don’t surf.

Touching down in Saigon, it strikes me that I am the farthest away from home I have ever been. Dragging my aching muscles through the automatic doors, a wave of wet, muggy heat arrests me. Rising out of the broad avenues of swarming mankind, the potent aroma of grease, street food, and diesel fuel fills my lungs while red sunlight filters lazily through the smog-covered streets.

These streets cross one another at weird angles like the brown lines that lacerate the old map of Vietnam on the wall of our apartment. That map—cracked and warped from years in the wet Saigon heat—was made in 1954. The same year the French were humiliated at the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, marking the end of the French occupation of Vietnam, and the beginning of my country’s troubles here. 1

Motorbikes scream by us at breakneck speeds and I feel my heart jump out of my chest every time we cross the street. Collecting ourselves enough to hail a cab, we slip into the chrome stream of Saigon traffic and are lost in the anonymity of noise and heat. My feelings of both loving and hating the street alternate rapidly, spinning together into a strobe wheel of maniacal, pulsing energy. It seems to seep up through the cracked concrete and form a circuit cable, plugged straight into the heart of this place I have newly discovered. 2 Good morning, Vietnam.

Diary of S/Sgt. Nicholas W. Halden 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), United States Army.  Da Nang Air Base, January, 1968. It was one of those smiles that was simple, genuine, slightly bashful, but capable of tearing a rift in spacetime that could force the world to stop moving for a single moment. It made you feel like you would do something, anything just to see it again. I sat down on the hot metal bench outside the canteen. She sat down next to me. I was still grinning stupidly at her. The Vietnamese have a saying that Vietnam has two seasons: hot and hotter. As her dark hair clung lazily to her bare shoulders in the scorching afternoon heat, I was beginning to believe it. She had a way of speaking that was alternatively cross and inviting. Amid my fumbling attempts to make conversation, her face seemed to alternate between curiosity and incredulity. It spoke to an enviable self-confidence that anyone would find extraordinarily attractive. At the same time, there was a kind of inexplicable sorrow in her eyes that came through even when her face lit up in a spontaneous laugh. If only I had understood the source of that sorrow then, I would have perceived the hidden strength that it must have taken to keep her slight frame together. 

It’s three weeks later and my ash-white knuckles are wrapped tightly around the disintegrating rubber handles of my motorbike. With my heart in my throat, I navigate treacherous, washed out mountain roads, noisy, rain-slicked highways. My knee aches from where I fell off a smaller bike less than a month before. My only goal is to survive the next mile, then the mile after that. I don’t like motorcycles or scooters. I don’t like things on two wheels or things that require balance. I definitely don’t like this combination of the two.

A week before that I am diving into the ice blue waters of the Gulf of Tonkin, wary of the prying eyes of police patrol boats. I race my friends to the shore. I win. It's the only sport I was ever any good at. That night we learn how to cook a traditional Vietnamese meal of Gỏi cuốn together. We almost crash my drone in Ha Long Bay.

It’s two weeks earlier and I’m watching the sun rise over the eighth wonder of the world. I’m describing the faded reliefs on the walls of Angkor Wat to my companions. I tell them the meaning of the Dharmachakra– the Wheel of the Law–and the story of how the devas and asuras of Hindu cosmology joined forces to uncoil the body of Shiva’s world-serpent Vāsuki to churn the Sea of Milk.

They remind me that it’s six in the morning, and we’ve barely slept in three days. I stare at the relief and my tired eyes watch the great nāga uncoiling. I dismiss it as a trick of the light. Three weeks later and we are on a beach in Hoi An, saying goodbye to a motley collection of travelers we have come to view as our friends. 

Another city, another week. Another taxi screeches to a halt next to the party hostel. We are greeted by the dull thudding of loud western music coming from the backyard. Inside is a dizzying soundscape of chthonic beats and rhythms accompanied by an epileptic assault of light and color.

Stumbling through the doorway in a pleasant state of inebriation, our party of seven or eight disbands to the four winds in search of whiskey, vodka, old friends, and new flirtations. The scene that hails us as we wander out of the indoor lounge area out into the pool deck seems straight out of a film montage of a wild fraternity party.

Drunken Australian boys perform backflips into a pool full of half-naked Scandinavian girls playing volleyball. Bleached-blonde Californians play beer pong with a pod of aggressive Kiwis. A pair of predictably boisterous Polish guys shouts for more beer over some girl sporting a grating New York accent and not much else.

An army of swift, competent bartenders and hostel staff cater to their every need. In one corner a Dutch student explains to an inattentive new friend everything that is wrong with the cheap Vietnamese grass he’d pawned off of a street vendor. He is stoned out of his gourd. My friend and traveling companion Jon turns to me with an expression of shock, exasperation, and something akin to horror as he illustratively sweeps his arm over the debauched scene. 

“This is the side of Southeast Asia I always knew existed and never really wanted to see. ”

I nod in agreement. Saigon. Siem Reap. Hanoi. Da Nang. Hoi An. For three weeks, Jon and I have been crisscrossing Vietnam and Cambodia along with Jon’s little brother Josh. The three of us are closer in appearance than we were in demeanor.

At school we were often mistaken for each other by our own friends. Josh ran over me on his skateboard freshman year and we instantly realized each boy was the other one’s doppleganger. It was the start of a long, obnoxious friendship. A fateful pairing of opposites. Five years on, here we are together, on the far side of the world.

An hour later we were sitting, hand-in-hand at a grimy restaurant table. Two ARVN MP’s lounged at the entrance drunkenly field-stripping their 1911’s and punching tiny holes in the table with the firing pins. ‘Los Angeles’ was there too. He sat across from us smoking bad cigarettes and drinking what passed for the local beer. He liked me, but I could tell he still clearly viewed me with suspicion. I was an intruder, either on a friendship or a potential romance. It was inside that shoddy little restaurant tucked into an alley away from the bustling main street that I discovered the story behind that inescapable sadness in the girl’s eyes. Her mother had been taken from her. Cancer. Not long before, either.

The city of Hoi An–once a thriving conduit of trade between China, Japan, Europe, and India–now serves primarily as a landing zone for millions of Western (and increasingly, Chinese) tourists who descend in droves upon the city’s charming old town, pleasant beaches, and ubiquitous watering holes. The city boasts hundreds of backpacking hostels that cater to all the carnal needs of thousands of drunk, promiscuous Australians, Kiwis, Dutch, South Africans, Germans, and the occasional Canadian or American.

Beautiful young women and handsome young men flit in and out of this Vanity Fair of loud music, dirty bathrooms, alcohol, and illicit substances night by night, seeking a fix, a thrill, or some way to bury whatever it is that brings them halfway around the world to a place like Vietnam. Every year following the rainy season, these nomads descend upon Southeast Asia for a variety of reasons, savory and otherwise. You can easily distinguish the veterans from the new arrivals to this scene. There is a hollowness, a kind of numbness that steals the light from their eyes and the life from their laughter. It's a kind of sickness that comes from long exposure to the Pacific sun and too much time wandering aimlessly through the nightclubs and drug dens of Southeast Asia. A narcotic haze that cripples ambition and manifests in sun worn skin, cheap cigarettes, and fifty cent Saigon beer.

She toyed with a crumpled hospital note stuffed inside a well-worn East German passport. The wound was still deep, and the memory was still fresh. The opiate healing of time and distance had not yet blunted the jagged edge of grief. Halfway around the world, her eyes brimmed with hot, wet tears of love and loss. Her beautiful face was now crossed with rivulets of long-withheld grief. Now I understood the deep, black wells behind her dark eyes. The quivering at the corners of her perfect mouth that betrayed each smile. Now I understood why she was so far from home, with nothing but an old rucksack and the weight of memories she longed to recall but wanted desperately to forget. 3

Of the hundreds of expats and long term travelers I encountered in Vietnam, only one seemed to have escaped this hollowed out existence. He was handsome, thirty something Dutch physical therapist named Jop. Jop thrived in the humid, sluggish environment of Hoi An without letting it rot his soul or cloud his judgment. He was ambitious, kindhearted, fit, bright, and full of life and a spirit of adventure.

Jop had recently separated from a longtime girlfriend and–like many travelers I encountered in Vietnam–had journeyed to Asia with the hope of discovering something new about himself. Jop took his occupation as a physical therapist quite seriously and when I complained of the residual pain in my left knee from a motorcycle accident a month earlier in Turkey, he insisted on giving me a proper examination.

Jop was one of those people in life to which you instantly, inexplicably warm. There is a goodness in them that exudes through their smile, their actions, and their thoughtful perspective on life. 

The lingering intoxication of alcohol and cheap cigarettes heightened the emotional resonance of the moment. As in a dream, there seemed no progression from one moment to the next. From one location to the next. Just jumps. Sudden lurches that had a kind of logic to them, but you still could never determine how you arrived at the place you were from the place you had been previously .

The archetype of the washed-up expat stands in distinct contrast to the character of the local residents, who are almost uniformly industrious, kindhearted, entrepreneurial, and ambitious. Though it feels like well worn Western characterization, I can confidently say that in all of my travels I have never met a people more hospitable than the Vietnamese. I used to wonder at stories of American G.I.’s returning to Vietnam after the war because of their great love for this beautiful country and its wonderful people. But having travelled here, I realize that there is something uniquely welcoming about this land and its people that I have not encountered elsewhere. 4

The memories that I cherish from my whirlwind journey to Vietnam are a credit to its beautiful vistas, its captivating history, and most of all, its fascinating and inspiring people.

Before I had even realized it, Los Angeles was gone. I had no idea where to. I just suddenly found myself alone with her. We were walking down a rain-slicked sidewalk. Colorful shop windows and signs cast weird colors across dirty puddles that I tried to avoid and she walked through without seeming to notice. My arm was around her slender waist. Her head occasionally nestled into my shoulder as we walked. I felt somehow younger, childlike even. Like I was taking a long-expected walk with a long-admired crush. 5 As we approached the hotel, beneath the ghastly flicker of street lamp, I stopped suddenly and pulled her to me. Her body melted into mine in a liquid embrace. There was an unlooked for tenderness in her kiss. It was without restraint, but contained no trace of the erotic. It was like a whispered sigh, or prayer. Without pretension or remorse. It had nothing of the transactional arousal of excitable bodies that a kiss between strangers often elicits. We stood outside the hostel, trying to prolong the fleeting moment. It was a moment of calm and understanding, despite the rush of passing buses and motorcycles. A light rain like dew gathered on our clothes and ran down our hair in tiny droplets. She drew her head away from mine and looked into my eyes. The sickly colors of the street pooled into still warm tears which formed at the corners of her eyes and mixed with the cool evening rain. She smiled, suddenly, turned, and disappeared back through the hotel door. 

Travel is an invitation to surrender. To surrender your comforts, your routines, your preconceived notions about how the world is, or how it should be. It is an invitation to surrender to the little interactions, the new friends, the home-cooked food, the harebrained ideas. Even if that means white-knuckling it down rain-slicked Vietnamese highways and flooded dirt roads in a motorbike or flying a drone for the first time off the back of a cruise ship.

Travel reminds us that sometimes happiness is little more than finding yourself in the right place at the right time. That sometimes joy comes from opening yourself up to the strangers around you, stripping away your expectations and emptying your heart of your endless quest for purpose.

In an age where we live for the future while remaining haunted by the past, throwing yourself onto the mercy of a new place, in a new way means surrendering–at last–to the wonder and opportunity of the unknown and the endless potential of the present moment. 

This paragraph was heavily inspired by the opening lines of Dispatches by Michael Herr. Herr was a war correspondent during the Vietnam War, and I read his book while in country. It was a fevered descent into the chaos of war and some of the most beautiful writing I have ever encountered. Highly recommend.

Oh, Charles. You are not actually Captain Benjamin L. Willard of the United States Army Special Forces on a secret mission up the Nung River into Cambodia. You are an errand boy… sent by grocery clerks… to collect a bill.

To be transparent, the “Diary” of the American Staff Sergeant is merely a fictional frame narrative for an actual encounter I had in the Vietnamese city of Hoi An with a woman who I would think about for years afterward. It reminded me of that scene in Citizen Kane where Mr. Bernstein explains to Jerry Thompson:

“You’re pretty young, Mr. Thompson. A fellow will remember things you wouldn’t think he’d remember. You take me. One day, back in 1896, I was crossing over to Jersey on a ferry and as we pulled out, there was another ferry pulling in and on it, there was a girl waiting to get off. A white dress she had on — and she was carrying a white pastrol — and I only saw her for one second and she didn’t see me at all — but I’ll bet a month hasn’t gone by since that I haven’t thought of that girl.”

Reflecting on this four years later, it simply screams “Men Writing Women.” Cringe! It was the first–and the only public–attempt I have ever made to write about the experience of becoming infatuated with a stranger. Hopefully my next attempts will be more thoughtful and less obviously centered in the very navel of the male gaze. Took some guts to admit this! We are cringe , but we are free.

I think at the time I thought that this was fair and profound but upon reflection it seems slightly Orientalist. Maybe I am being too self-conscious.

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10 Days in Vietnam: The Best 10 Day Vietnam Itinerary For First Timers

Have 10 days in Vietnam? Vietnam is full of amazing places to see but if you want to see the best places in Vietnam, then follow my 10 day Vietnam Itinerary! This Vietnam itinerary is based on my repeated trips to Vietnam so I can guarantee you will love these places!

Vietnam is probably one of the most underrated countries in Southeast Asia . While most of the tourists flock to Thailand or Singapore, I loved Vietnam so much that I went back multiple times just to explore different regions of Vietnam.

Vietnam is a country with rich history and culture, incredible food, beautiful beaches, mountains and scenery that will leave you surprised and amazed. It is one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia and it is probably the No.1 country I would recommend visiting in SE Asia.

There are many ways to spend 10 days in Vietnam. This Vietnam itinerary will focus on how to see the highlights of Vietnam from North to South.

This blog contains occasional affiliate links, where I receive a small commission on sales of the products/hotels that are linked at no additional cost to you. In addition, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Thank you for supporting my blog.

Planning your first trip to Vietnam?

I have written a TON on Vietnam to help you plan your amazing Vietnam trip.

Whether you are planning to spend 10 days or 2 weeks in Vietnam, you will definitely find these articles helpful.

From sleeper trains to Halong Bay cruise to Ba Na Hills to Hue , these articles will for sure make your trip memorable and fun!

Where To Visit in Vietnam

Vietnam has a diverse landscape, spanning from the North to South, including mountains, rivers (and bay), rice terraces, the largest cave in the world, and beaches. Vietnam offers both modern cities and ancient towns, providing you with different experiences and a glance into its history.

Some of the best places to visit in Vietnam include (by Region):

Northern Vietnam

Central Vietnam

• Son Dong Cave
• My Son Sanctuary

Southern Vietnam

• Ho Chi Minh City

This 10 day Vietnam itinerary will cover some of the places above, assuming you are a first time visitor! Since there are multiple ways to plan a Vietnam trip and my itinerary is only an example you can follow, you can always swap out certain things as you plan your own Vietnam trip. Regardless of what you plan to do and see in Vietnam, I am still super jealous of all the great experience and food you will have on your trip.

Things To Know Before Visiting Vietnam For The First Time

• Vietnam Tourist Visa may be required if you are from certain countries (like from the US or Canada). Make sure to check the visa requirement before you go. Some countries do enjoy visa-free entry into Vietnam, including many EU and Asian Countries (excluding China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, etc). You can apply for the Vietnam E-Visa online yourself on the official government website. It takes no more than 10 minutes and only costs USD 25. Follow my step by step instruction on how to apply for a Vietnam e-Visa .
• Currency in Vietnam is Vietnamese Dong and 1 USD is about 23,500 Vietnamese Dong.
• You need to have cash with you in Vietnam; most places do not accept credit card. You should have some USD (or Euros) with you so you can convert in Vietnam (like at hotels and banks) as ATMs are not readily available everywhere.
• Use ATMs if you intend on taking out cash. You get better rates at local ATMs than if you were to exchange money
• Do not drink the tap water in Vietnam and try not to get ice cubes with your drinks; buy water but make sure the bottles are properly sealed
• Download Whatsapp ! Businesses are done over Whatsapp (like bus/ train booking, hotel communication etc). It is so much easier to communicate over Whatsapp than email.
• Your hotel can help you book almost everything , such as transportation, tours, attractions, etc.
• A travel adapter/ converter is needed if you are traveling from North America and Europe.
• Use an eSim or get a physical sim for Vietnam if you need internet.
• Vaccine requirements for Vietnam : I didn’t take any special vaccines but if you are curious, visit the official CDC website here .

Where to Stay in Vietnam in 10 Days

It is super easy to find cheap (but good) accommodations in Vietnam. In fact we’ve stayed at a wide range of hotels and guest houses in Vietnam, from $30 a day to $200 a day (for two people).

The detailed itinerary below shows you where to stay in Vietnam in each of the cities on this itinerary but here I will give you a short highlight. These are the places I’ve stayed at in Vietnam since I’ve been a couple of times.

• Hanoi : Meritel Hanoi in the center of Old Quarter
• Halong Bay : Stellar of the Sea Cruise
• Ninh Binh : Tam Coc Horizon Bungalow
• Hoi An: Q Villa
• Ho Chi Minh City : The Reverie Saigon
• Phu Quoc : L’Azure Resort and Spa

10 Day Vietnam Itinerary

Here is an overview of how to spend 10 days in Vietnam, then you will see the detailed day to day itinerary. This itinerary starts from the North in the capital city of Vietnam and moves down south.

Day 1 : Hanoi Day 2 : Ninh Binh Day 3-4 : Halong Bay Cruise Day 5-6 : Hoi An in Central Vietnam Day 7 & 8 : Ho Chi Minh City Day 9 & 10 : Phu Quoc Island

Day 1 of 10 days in Vietnam: Hanoi

Start your 10 day Vietnam journey in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam and the largest city in Northern Vietnam. It is a super nice city to visit and a great place to start your 10 days in Vietnam.

If you are flying into Hanoi, here is a guide on Hanoi Airport to Old Quarters to give you some ideas on the best way to go to Old Quarters. For first time visitors, you will most likely be staying in the Old Quarter and do sightseeing around there.

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and it is a cultural mix of Western and Eastern influences. As you wander around Hanoi, you will see there are many well preserved colonial buildings as well as ancient pagodas in Hanoi.

What to see in Hanoi

A few famous places in Hanoi you can check out include

• Hanoi Old Quarter
• Temple of Literature
• Hoan Kiem Lake
• Night markets (beware of pickpockets)
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Ho Chi Minh Museum
• Visit pagodas and Cathedrals
• Thong Nhat Park
• Train Street
• Beer Corner

I absolutely loved just walking around the Old Quarter to see what local life is like there. You will find tons of street food vendors, shops and coffee shops. If you see something that looks appealing, be sure to stop and try it!

In particular I enjoyed walking around the Old Quarter at night. On specific nights there will be night markets where you can buy souvenirs, clothes, food, and other small trinkets. You should also stop by the super famous Beer Street if you want to see how lively Old Quarter gets at night! I was walking alone and felt totally safe around 7-9pm!

You can also watch a show at the Opera House, see a water puppet show in Hanoi and shop at the famous Dong Xuan Market.

One very famous Instagram worthy thing to do in Hanoi is to visit the Hanoi Train Street , where you can watch an actual train speed by along a cramped street full of cafes and shops (although some cafes may have closed due to government order and the pandemic).

Due to accidents in recent years, train streets do randomly get “closed down” but you can still visit. The most popular stretch of the train street have a lot of cafes and sometimes you will need a cafe owner to bring you in from the “backdoor”.

Other parts of train street without cafes are always open.

Usually the trains come at 3:20pm (weekends only) and 7:30pm (weekday) but the timing is not always accurate. It’s best to go before the scheduled time and just wait around.

Tours You Should Consider in Hanoi

Hanoi has a ton of things to eat and I think you really should take one of the street food tours to explore the best local flavors. I highly recommend this Hanoi street food tour if you are curious about authentic Vietnamese cuisine!

If you are scared of street food don’t worry, you can always do a cooking class . I personally love the cooking class because you really get to learn how to make authentic Vietnamese dish at home.

Where to stay in Hanoi

I stayed at the Meritel Hanoi in the center of Old Quarter. The hotel is super modern with a rooftop pool and they helped us book our day trips to Tam Coc and Ha Long Bay overnight cruise the first time we visited Vietnam.

Another 2 hotels we stayed at in Hanoi during our two visits were Babylon Premium Hotel and La Storia Ruby Hotel . Both were good and La Storia Ruby Hotel was quite cheap and sufficient.

If you want to stay somewhere very luxurious in Hanoi, then I would recommend either the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi or the Movenpick Hotel Hanoi . But personally I think the hotels I mentioned above are already really nice and clean.

Read Next : How to Spend 2 days in Sapa

Day 2 of 10 days in Vietnam: Tam Coc (Ninh Binh) Day Trip From Hanoi

Take a day trip from Hanoi the next day to Tam Coc , an area in Ninh Binh .

Tam Coc is known as “ Halong Bay on land “. It’s an area with rice paddies and Ngo Dong River running through limestone caves and mountains. It’s located 90 km from Hanoi but it’s way less crowded than Hanoi or Halong Bay.

You can take a full day tour to Tam Coc and different tours do offer different options.

• Tour Option 1 : Goes to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital , Mua Cave (beautiful view of the area), Tam Coc boat ride on Ngo Dong River and Bich Dong Pagoda .
• Tour Option 2 : Includes Bai Dinh Pagoda , Mua Cave and a 3 hour Trang An Boat ride (which is different than the 2 hour Tam Coc Boat ride above).

With the first tour , you can do the boat ride on the Ngo Dong River , where the rowers are local ladies who use their feet to row the boat. They are so good at it that it feels like they’ve been doing it forever. I suppose it’s just a lot easier to row with your legs/feet instead of arms.

This 3 hour Trang An Boat Ride with the second tour has 3 different routes and you get to pick the route and get off the boat at each stop along the boat ride. I really liked the Trang An boat ride (more than the Tam Coc one actually).

The whole area of Tam Coc looked like it’s straight out of a painting. I actually think the scenery in Ninh Binh (Tam Coc) is the most beautiful during our 10 days in Vietnam trip.

If you do not want to join a tour, you can definitely visit Ninh Binh by yourself from Hanoi. You can rent a scooter (or hire a private taxi) once you are in Tam Coc to explore all the spots.

You can take buses or trains (or even private transfer) from Hanoi by booking them on this website . This would give you more flexibility especially if you plan to stay overnight or spend more time at a particular spot.

Day 3 & 4 of 10 days in Vietnam: Halong Bay Overnight Boat Cruise

Halong Day is famous for its thousands of limestone islands in the emerald water. It is located in Northern Vietnam about 3-4 hours from Hanoi . Most people take an overnight boat tour on Ha Long Bay because it’s simply too far from Hanoi to do a day trip.

I have been to Halong Bay twice and had a good time both times.

Different cruise companies offer different types of activities and amenities. Some of the cruise companies go to Lan Ha Bay and the itinerary includes exploring caves at Cat Ba Island, swimming and morning kayaking.

Some other cruise companies go to Halong Bay and they would go to floating villages and hiking up Titop Island for a panoramic view of Halong Bay.

While onboard, Halong Bay cruises generally have Tai-chi class, cooking class, lounge chairs, deck, Happy Hour (you need to pay for the drinks), common area with TV and DVDs, evening squid fishing, etc.

Having done the Halong Bay cruise twice, I really do feel the cruise was the most relaxing part of our entire 10 day Vietnam itinerary (and yes I did two 10 day trips in Vietnam and both were intense!)

Everything was arranged and you just relax on one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the world. You also get to try some Vietnamese wine and beer on the boat with this view, so what more could you need?

In recent years many newer cruises offer a route to Lan Ha Bay (a part of Halong Bay that is not as touristy). If you want a more laidback and relaxing trip to Halong Bay you can consider cruises offering routes to Lan Ha Bay.

Some of the most luxurious Halong Bay cruises now include Emperor Cruise , Orchid Cruise , Stellar of the Seas Cruise , Heritage Cruise , etc. These are the instagram worthy cruises that you often see on social media with the pool on deck and floor to ceiling glass bathrooms.

To learn more about Halong Bay, see my complete Halong Bay Cruise guide .

Day 5 & 6 of 10 days in Vietnam: Hoi An Ancient Town

After spending a few lovely days in Northern Vietnam it was time to start traveling south to the middle of Vietnam. Hoi An is an ancient town located in the middle of Vietnam (near the water on the eastern side of the country).

Hoi An is one of the most well known towns in Vietnam due to its well preserved historical center and the colorful lanterns and buildings. It used to be a major trading port from the 15th to 19th century. Since it is an UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will get to experience how life looked like back in the days.

How to Hoi An From Hanoi

To travel from Hanoi to Hoi An, the fastest way is to fly. There are trains and buses to Hoi An but they take much longer although if you are planning to do an overnight bus or train these are good choices.

Hoi An does not have an airport of its own, so travelers need to fly from Hanoi to Danang (which is also a cool place to visit, it has a beach!). There are over 20 flights from Hanoi to Da Nang everyday and it’s a short flight about 1.5 hours.

Once you land in Da Nang, look for the bus station to Hoi An. Alternatively you can take a taxi or have your hotel pick you up. Our hotel offered to pick us up at 315.000 vnd/car, which is about 15 USD.

Things to See in Hoi An

• Japanese Covered Bridge : The most famous site in Hoi An is the Japanese Covered Bridge , it’s a historical piece of Japanese architecture. If you want to walk through the bridge then you have to pay an entrance fee , so most visitors actually opt to just take a photo in front of the Japanese Covered Bridge.
• Assembly Halls : There are a number of assembly halls in Hoi An and they were built by the Chinese community that lived there during the trading period. Some of the most famous Assembly Halls in Hoi An include Cantonese Asembly Hall and Fujian Assembly Hall.
• Visit the Old Houses : Within the touristy zone there are 18th century Old Houses. You can visit these Old Houses and do a guided tour to learn more about the architecture as well as the historical background of them. We visited Tan Ky Old House and it was really interesting to know what the family experienced back then.
• Visit a local market : If you are interested to see how locals shop or just want to look for some cheap fruits and everyday items, then be sure to stop by the Hoi An Central Market. I was able to get a large T-shirt (as PJ), nail clipper and other random things from the central market.
• Get clothes tailored : Hoi An is tailor capital of Vietnam so you can find a large number of tailor shops in the old town. We went to Ba Ri to get a couple of dresses made and the turn around time was within 2 days.
• Enjoy the lanterns at night : Hoi An is literally the cutest with all the lanterns lit up on its streets at night.
• Check out Hoi An Night Market : Night market is a popular thing to do in Hoi An south of the river. You can find cooked food as well as clothes, gadgets and souvenirs at the night market.
• Take a boat ride & release lanterns : A super romantic thing to do in Hoi An is to take a 20 minute boat ride on Thu Bon River at night. You can  pre-book the boat here .

Read Next : How to spend one day in Hoi An – what to do and eat in Hoi An

(Optional Day Trip From Hoi An) Golden Bridge (Hand Bridge) in Ba Na Hills

In June 2018, Vietnam opened an incredibly cool looking bridge called the Golden Bridge near the city of Da Nang in Ba Na Hills Resort. Photos on social media immediately attracted tons of tourist and many visitors are going to Vietnam just for the Golden Bridge or the Hand Bridge.

Golden Bridge is located in a theme park called Sun World Ba Na Hills and can only be visited by riding a cable car up in the Ba Na Hills Resort. The bridge is 1500m above sea level and it’s about 500ft long.

Fortunately for those of you visiting Hoi An, you can take a taxi from Hoi An to Ba Na hills in about 1-1.5 hours to visit the Golden Bridge.

After you visit the Golden Bridge, you should also explore other attractions at Ba Na Hills such as the French Village , Le Jardin D’Amour , Linh Ung Pagoda , etc.

You can check out my Golden Hand Bridge guide to get more details.

If you have some extra time in Vietnam, be sure to check out this 3 day Danang itinerary which also includes how to visit the Golden Bridge.

Where to Stay in Hoi An

For beach lovers, you would love the luxury Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa    or the Dai An Phu Villa . You can walk to the beach in under 5 minutes and there is a free shuttle service to Hoi An Ancient Town. There are spas and massages at the hotel for a truly luxurious experience.

For those who want to stay in a medium ranged hotel closer to the Hoi An ancient town, I would recommend either the Silk Luxury Hotel & Spa or Vinh Hung Heritage hotel .

If you are a budget traveler, there are nice hotels/ hostels that cost less than 30 USD a night that’s close to the center of Hoi An historical town such as Hoi An Ivy Hotel or Q Villa . We stayed at Q Villa and loved it.

Day 7 & 8 of 10 days in Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam by population. It’s located in the Southern part of Vietnam and has a tropical (wet and dry season) climate.

Ho Chi Minh City played an important role during the Vietnam War (anti-communist). Before that it was ruled by the Japanese and French, so that’s why most of the architectures you see in Ho Chi Mihn City are of French influence.

You can fly to Ho Chi Minh directly on Jetstar from Da Nang.

What to do in Ho Chi Minh City : some of the things you can do in Saigon include the

• Cu Chi Tunnels (underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War)
• Binh Tay Market and Ben Thanh Market
• Independence Palace
• War Remnants Museum
• Cao Dai Temple
• Jade emperor Pagoda
• Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica
• bar hopping at Pham Ngu Lau Street
• Visit a rooftop bar

If you have time, you can also do some excursions outside of the city, such as a visit to the Mekong Delta , the Cai Be Floating Market , etc.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh : if you are looking to stay at a hostel, check out this post on hostels in Ho Chi Minh .

If you prefer a more luxurious experience, then I would highly recommend either The Reverie Saigon , Silverland Yen Hotel , or the Alagon D’antique Hotel & Spa .

Day 9 & 10 of 10 days in Vietnam: Beach At Phú Quốc

After the hustling and bustling of Saigon, it’s time to relax on the beach! Most people don’t realize that Vietnam has nice beaches (at least I didn’t know) but I was pleasantly surprised by the island of Phu Quoc .

Phu Quoc Island is located off the coast of Cambodia and is known for its white sand beaches and resorts. It’s a hidden gem because most tourists go to islands in Thailand so Phu Quoc is not nearly as crowded as Thailand.

Even though it was February but since the island is so south that it was actually a nice beach weather. There is a direct flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc so it was perfect for our itinerary.

Where to stay in Phu Quoc : there are a lot of wonderful hotels in Phu Quoc by the beach, such as the Seashells Phu Quoc Hotel & Spa , L’Azure Resort and Spa , Movenpick Villas & Residences , Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort , etc. These 5 star hotels are no more than $150 a night which is crazy to me since they would cost over $1000 a night in Hawaii or something!

What to do in Phu Quoc : BEACH!! There are many nice beaches in Phu Quoc such as Truong Beach , Vung Bau Beach , and Sao Beach . The most famous one would be the Sao beach.

If you are a fan of kayaking then this kayaking and starfish tour would be perfect for you.

Snorkeling and scuba diving are also popular activities on Phu Quoc since the water is warm and calm.

Besides beach, you can also take the famous Phu Quoc cable car from Phu Quoc to Hon Thom Island. It takes about 15 minutes each way and it is a breathtaking experience. You get amazing views of the sea and islands on a clear day and it is the longest non-stop 3 way cable car in the world.

Other Vietnam Trip Planning Tips and Things to Know

Best (and worst) months to visit vietnam.

In general, December to April are the best months to visit Vietnam, avoiding the rainy season that takes place from June to October .

But since Vietnam is a very “long” country, there are different climates in different regions of Vietnam:

• Northern Vietnam : generally a lot cooler than the rest of the country. However, if you are in mountainous regions, the whether during November to March can be quite foggy and cold but relatively dry.
• Central Vietnam : enjoys tropical climate and has pretty warm weather almost year round. Central Vietnam gets the most amount of rainfall between September and November and there is a high chance of flooding.
• Southern Vietnam : generally enjoys a relatively consistent warm weather all year round, with the highest level of rainfall from May to October. The islands in Vietnam will be warm enough even in the “winter” months, but with the most clear skies in February.

How to get around Vietnam

It is pretty easy to get around Vietnam, and some of the most popular methods to get around Vietnam include:

• Rent a moped or motorbike : This is a flexible way to get around Vietnam cheaply. Motorbikes up to 50 cc can be ridden in Vietnam without a license, but this may not be the best option for long distance. If you are thinking about simply riding around a city, then this is the perfect option.
• Take a local bus : Local buses are the easiest way to travel long distance in Vietnam. You can take a sleeper bus to save time during your travel. This is the best website to book a Vietnam bus.
• Take a sleeper train : Sleeper trains are another convenient way to get around Vietnam. I took a luxury sleeper train to get from Hanoi to Sapa. This is the best website to book a sleeper train.
• Ride a shared van : You can easily book a shared luxury van to get around Vietnam. These vans come with AC and USB port and we took these vans to get to Halong Bay and Ninh Binh and loved them.
• Call car services : There is no Uber in Vietnam but you can use Grab App to call a car. It works just like Uber but I had to use cash to pay as for some reason my credit card didn’t go through.
• Take a flight : You can easily fly around Vietnam for cheap. I always took Vietnamese Airlines as it was more reliable and our flight from Hue to Hanoi was only 50 USD. My friends have taken Bamboo Airways or VietJet but said VietJet changed their flight to 3 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Is Vietnam safe?

Vietnam is a pretty safe country for tourists, even for female solo travelers.

However, like any Southeast Asia country, there is petty crime such as pick pocketing. Be sure to watch your bags/wallets closely, especially in crowded areas (and if you do not look Asian).

I have heard stories from friends that their purses were slashed from behind when they were shopping at street markets in Hanoi.

If you have jewelry you may want to leave them at home. It is not prudent to flaunt your wealth with big bling blings in Vietnam. You may not get robbed but it’s frowned upon.

For those who are not familiar with the traffic conditions in Vietnam, you will need to watch out for cars and motorbikes . Motorbikes are the main transportation in Vietnam and in cities like Hanoi, it can get quite overwhelming.

Even though the drivers will try to avoid you (they are very good at that!), but still use caution when crossing the streets. Try to follow locals when crossing the street in Vietnam.

If you are thinking about taking overnight trains or buses, then the good news is that these types of public transportation is safe for solo travelers.

I took both overnight trains and buses, and they felt perfectly safe.

What to Eat in Vietnam

Different regions in Vietnam also have different speciality food. You will need to do some research to figure out what are the best local specialities are in each region. But in general, here are what some of the typical dishes are in Vietnam.

• Pho : The famous Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and a variety of fresh herbs and condiments. It is one of the best things you can eat in Northern Vietnam (at least I find the ones in Northern Vietnam tastier)
• Bánh Mì : World renowned Vietnamese sandwiches, which are typically filled with a combination of grilled meats, vegetables, pâté, and fresh herbs, served in a baguette. I had the best Banh Mi in Hoi An!
• Gỏi Cuốn : Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, herbs, pork, rice vermicelli, and other ingredients, often served with a peanut dipping sauce.
• Bún Chả : Grilled pork patties and sliced pork belly served over vermicelli noodles, often accompanied by fresh herbs, peanuts, and a dipping sauce. There are some really good places for this in Hanoi Old Quarter.
• Cơm Tấm : Broken rice served with grilled pork, fried egg, and fish sauce, often garnished with pickled vegetables.
• Bánh Xèo : Vietnamese sizzling pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs, typically served with a dipping sauce. You can find some of these really good ones in Hue
• Bún Bò Huế : A spicy beef noodle soup originating from the city of Hue, featuring tender slices of beef and pork, lemongrass, and chili
• Cá Kho Tộ : A popular Vietnamese braised fish dish, often cooked in a caramelized sauce with black pepper and served with rice
• Bánh Cuốn : Steamed rice rolls filled with ground pork, mushrooms, and other ingredients, often served with fried shallots and fish sauce
• Chả Giò : Fried spring rolls, often filled with ground meat, shrimp, and vegetables, wrapped in rice paper
• Hủ tiếu : A noodle soup dish with a clear and flavorful broth, typically containing seafood, pork, and rice noodles
• Bánh Canh : A thick Vietnamese noodle soup made with wide, udon-like noodles and a variety of toppings, including seafood, meat, or vegetables.
• Hấp Hủ tiếu Nam Vang : A dish featuring clear rice noodles topped with a mixture of shrimp, squid, pork, and a special savory sauce.
• Bánh Khoai : A Vietnamese crepe or pancake often filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.

There are also a ton of popular Vietnamese desserts that you should try, and here are some of the famous ones:

• Vietnamese coffee : You absolutely cannot leave Vietnam without trying their coffee, especially the famed Egg Coffee and Coconut Coffee!
• Chè : Chè is a broad category of Vietnamese sweet soups or puddings made with a variety of ingredients. These can include mung beans, black-eyed peas, sweet potatoes, lotus seeds, tapioca pearls, and fruits.
• Bánh Bò : Bánh bò, also known as Vietnamese honeycomb cake, is a spongy, steamed cake made from rice flour, tapioca starch, sugar, and coconut milk. It has a unique honeycomb-like texture.
• Bánh Chuối Hấp : This is a steamed banana cake, typically made with ripe bananas, rice flour, sugar, and coconut milk. It’s a moist and fragrant dessert.
• Bánh Flan : Bánh flan is the Vietnamese version of crème caramel or flan. It consists of a layer of caramelized sugar topped with a creamy, egg-based custard.
• Bánh Tiêu : Bánh tiêu are Vietnamese hollow doughnuts that are deep-fried until they puff up and turn golden brown. They are often filled with sweet mung bean paste or custard.
• Chuối Nếp Nướng : Grilled sticky rice and bananas are a delightful dessert often found in Vietnam. The combination of grilled sticky rice and caramelized bananas creates a sweet and slightly smoky flavor.
• Kem Xôi : This dessert combines two popular Vietnamese items, kem (ice cream) and xôi (sticky rice). The sticky rice is often dyed with natural colors and served with a scoop of ice cream.

To find good restaurants to eat in Vietnam, I would recommend that you use Google Maps and TripAdvisor ! We used both and found the reviews spot on!

How to get a SIM card and internet in Vietnam

I highly recommend that you get a SIM card when traveling in Vietnam. You can also purchase a Vietnam SIM card at the airport when you first arrive.

The most popular tourist SIM cards are offered by Viettel, Mobiphone, Vietnamobile and VinaPhone . I’ve seen a lot of people using Viettel so you can definitely consider that. You can ask for a 1 month tourist sim which costs about 10 – 20 USD (price and package may change since things change fast there).

If you want the convenience of just having your internet work right after you land, you can consider getting a Vietnam eSIM with Vietnamesim.com before you fly.

They provide a wide range of data plans and the most popular plan is 120GB for 30 days (max 4 GB per day) including free first 20 minutes of every call to Vinaphone numbers. I activated the eSim to one of my phones before I flew and internet worked immediately when I landed in Vietnam, so it was super convenient.

If you have T Mobile Magenta Plans (or Magenta Max Plans), you can enjoy free internet roaming . Magenta Max plans give you 5GB of high speed internet (then after that it’s 256kps speed) and Magenta plans give you 256kps speed internet.

Booking Resources for Vietnam

If you found this article useful, please consider using the links below to book your hotels and tours. We earn a fee from referring you at no cost to you. With your support we can continue to provide useful information for travelers like you to plan that perfect trip to Vietnam.

• Hotel booking sites for Vietnam :  this  or  this
• Tours booking sites for Vietnam :  this  or  this
• Travel insurance
• Train and bus booking site

Read My Other Vietnam Travel Blogs

Be sure to check out my other Vietnam travel resources to help plan your trip!

• How to get a Vietnam E-Visa
• 1 Day Hoi An itinerary and Travel Guide
• 2 Day Hue Itinerary to see the best Hue Tourist Attractions
• Best things to do in Sapa in 2 days
• Complete Halong Bay Cruise Guide
• What to do and see in Cat Cat Village in Sapa
• Visiting Golden Hand Bridge in Ba Na Hills
• Vietnam Sleeper Train Guide
• 3 Week Vietnam and Thailand Itinerary
• 2 Week Southeast Asia Itinerary (4 Alternative Itineraries)

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The Perfect Vietnam Itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 Weeks

• Last Updated: January 25, 2024

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam for 1, 2, or 3 weeks then you must start with this post to help plan your Vietnam itinerary. 

Vietnam has something for everyone. It’s bursting with history, delicious foods, hiking opportunities, beautiful landscapes, beaches, and of course the wonderful Vietnamese people.  

Our Vietnam itinerary guide will give you an overview of the country, with some great itinerary options depending on how long you plan to visit. 

We have something for everyone with:

• 10 days in Vietnam: Highlights Itinerary – These are the must-see places in Vietnam
• 1 week in Vietnam focusing on the North
• 1 week in Vietnam focusing on the South
• 2 weeks in Vietnam, by combining the two above
• 3 weeks in Vietnam, or longer, by adding our extended options to your itinerary.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our complete guide to travelling in Vietnam !

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Hanoi 

Day 2 and 3 – halong bay, day 4 and 5 – sapa , day 6 and 7 – hue , day 8 – hoi an, day 9 and 10 – explore saigon, and take a full or half-day tour to the cu chi tunnels or the mekong delta, tour options, da nang , day 2 and 3 – ha long bay, day 4 and 5 – sapa, day 6  – hue, day 7 – hoi an, ninh binh (near hanoi), phong nha – ke bang national park (near hue), my son (near hoi an), ba be national park (near sapa), bach ma national park (between dan nang and hue), dong ha – for dmz tour (between dong hoi and da nang), day 1 – nha trang , day 2 – dalat , day 3 – mui ne , day 4 and 5 – ho chi minh city, day 6 and 7 – phu quoc island, cu chi tunnels or the mekong delta , con dao island, cat tien national park, did you find my vietnam itinerary helpful, 1, 2, and 3-week vietnam itinerary options .

We broke this Vietnam Itinerary into three main sections. 

Simply decide how long you have, and use one of our itineraries to guide you to the top things to do in Vietnam!

10 Days in Vietnam Itinerary: Vietnam Highlights

Our 10 days in Vietnam itinerary will highlight the absolute best of North and South Vietnam – from hiking in Sapa , to sinking beer in lively Ho Chi Minh City (more commonly referred to by its former name, Saigon).

This can be the core of a longer 2 or 3-week journey by adding extension opportunities to it.

You can do this trip from North to South, or in reverse.

After flying into Hanoi, you’ll have one day to see this beautiful city, so get ready to hit the ground running. 

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and is full of beautiful architecture, culture, and unique food.  The old city is surrounded by remnants of fortified walls, and most things you will want to visit are in the Old Quarter. 

I would suggest finding a walking tour, so you can learn about the city’s history as you explore the city.

Take a stroll around the Hoàn Kiếm Lake and visit the Temple of the Jade Moutain, and stop to help the locals practice their English. 

Try the local beer called Bia hơi or fresh beer, which is brewed fresh each morning, and doesn’t contain any preservatives. 

One of the best things to do in Hanoi is to have an egg coffee while sitting at a café in Hanoi’s Train Street. 

Then get ready to get out of the way when the train rattles past, so close to you that it takes your breath away!

For dinner, don’t forget to have a regional specialty, called Bun Cha. It’s found all through the old quarter, so you won’t have to go far to find it. 

Where to stay in Hanoi: We recommend staying right in the Old Quarter.

READ MORE: Learn more about what to do in Hanoi with our Hanoi city guide .

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and is one of the most popular things to see in Vietnam.  

The stunning bay is full of thousands of limestone islands, pristine beaches, caves, and floating villages.  The Vietnamese call it The Bay of the Descending Dragons. 

One of the best ways to visit the islands is by boat. 

You can take one of the many cruises on offer from the tour operators in town, taking you from Hanoi to Halong Bay, spending a night onboard a boat, and returning you to Hanoi the following day. 

Alternatively, make your own way to Halong Bay, and arrange a boat from there. 

Halong Bay cruise options vary depending on your budget.

The cruises normally include kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, swimming, visiting floating villages, and exploring caves.

If you find the Halong Bay cruises a little out of your budget, check out this guide to Halong Bay on a budget . 

Where to stay in Ha Long Bay: Spend the first night at Halong bay, preferably on board a junk boat.  Alternatively, spend the night on Cat Ba Island . Return to Hanoi, and spend the second night there, ready to head to Sapa in the morning.

After a restful night in Hanoi after your cruise, and having enjoyed some more Bun Cha and fresh beer, it’s time to get on a bus from Hanoi to Sapa.

You can also travel by train if you prefer, but buses are the fastest and the best way to get to Sapa from Hanoi. 

Alternatively, you can hire a private car, which will get you there faster, but at considerably more expensive.

Sapa is a region in Vietnam’s northwest and is home to beautiful terraced rice fields, great trekking, and exquisite vistas. 

Sapa has some of the best trekking in Vietnam . 

You can navigate some of these hikes yourself, arrange a private guide, or organize one of the many tours, either from Hanoi or in Sapa itself. 

The most popular attraction in Sapa is the highest mountain in the region, Fan Si Pan .

But unless you take the cable car to the top, you’ll need more time in the area for this hike. 

Some of the shorter day hikes are Cat Cat, and Tả Phìn , which can be done with or without a guide.

Where to stay in Sapa: Spend two nights in Sapa.  Consider a mountain lodge for the true Sapa experience, and then hop on the bus back to Hanoi early the following day.  Then fly from Hanoi to Hue. If you would prefer not to fly, you can take an overnight train or bus from Hanoi to Hue instead, arriving in the morning of Day 7.

Hue is the old Imperial City, and is where the Nguyen Dynasty held the throne for 143 years. 

The last Emperor, Bao Dai, abdicated his throne and power passed to Ho Chi Minh.

During the American War, the North Vietnamese Army captured Hue as part of the Tet Offensive. 

Thus began a battle to regain the Imperial city by the South Vietnamese and the Americans, which lasted almost a month with thousands dead, and the city was mostly destroyed. 

After spending the previous night in Hue, or arriving in the morning by bus or train, visit the Old City with its pavilions, beautiful temples, and the Royal Palace , all protected by high walls, exquisite gates, and moats. 

Hue is also known for the tombs of the Ancient Emperors.  They are all intricate and beautiful.

But don’t miss the Tomb of Tu Duc , or a visit to Tu Hieu Pagoda , which dates back to 1843. 

One of the last things to do in Hue is to try the famous Bún Bò Huế , a local noodle dish with beef and chili oil, washed down with fresh beer. 

Where to stay in Hue: Spend another night in Hue, then head off early on Day 8 to Hoi An.  The most spectacular way is on a motorbike tour through the Hai Van Pass.  The operators will take you on the back of a motorbike, and deliver both you and your luggage to your hotel in Hoi An.

Alternatively, you can take a private car or bus.

READ MORE: Learn more about what to do in Hue with our Hue city guide .

Explore the beautiful city, and enjoy some rest and relaxation at the beach, sitting on beach chairs and drinking cold coconuts. 

The old town is simply stunning. As you walk around you’ll pass stores selling little souvenirs,  great restaurants, and lots of clothes.

Hoi An is the place to be if you want to have some clothes made.  Tailors are everywhere, and prices are affordable. 

Make sure to head out into town at night, as the city lights up with hanging lanterns, and comes alive with markets, street food, and people. 

While out and about visit the wooden Japanese Covered Bridge from the 18 th Century, and take a boat ride up the river to get a better view of the lights. 

Use Grab or take a taxi or scooter and head to the beach.  You can sit at one of the many restaurants, use their lounge chairs and stay all afternoon soaking up the sun!

Where to stay in Hoi An: Spend the night in Hoi An, and fly from nearby Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City the next morning.

READ MORE: Add these things to do in Hoi An to your itinerary !

After experiencing incredible Hoi An, it’s time for one last big effort as we reach the home stretch of our 10-day itinerary. 

Our time allows for one of two tour options, or if you have an extra day, both.

Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh, is a bustling array of buildings, people, food and scooters! 

Saigon is where a lot of ex-pats live as it offers so much variety and, like New York, the city never sleeps! 

These are your last couple of days in Vietnam, and there is plenty to see.  The Vietnam War Museum, Notre Dame (yes they have one too!), the beautiful Central Post Office, and Independence Palace are all must-see destinations while in HCMC.

One of the things to do in Ho Chi Minh City is to head to Bui Ven Walking Street , where all the action happens. 

After dark, this street is packed with people sitting at small plastic tables and chairs sinking beers, eating street food, and people-watching. 

After a few beers and some food, head back to your hotel and get some rest before your flight home.

READ MORE: Consider these 8 day trips from Ho Chi Minh City .

The Cu Chi Tunnels

Even if you’re not particularly interested in Vietnam’s war history, this is an interesting place to visit. 

There are two different locations, Ben Dinh and Ben Doc . 

Most tour companies usually head to the one closest to the city, Ben Dinh, which is also the largest. 

The Tunnels offer an interesting insight into what it was like for the people fighting in the Vietnam/American War, their living conditions, and how they used the tunnels to hide underground during the day and fight the enemy at night.  

Today you can go into some of the tunnels, which have been widened for westerners to fit in. 

You can only visit the tunnels with a guide, which is provided as part of the entry ticket or part of your tour . 

The Mekong Delta Tour

If small little tunnels aren’t your thing and you would prefer to take a pleasant boat ride down the Mekong river instead, there are half-day tours available from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta. 

Mekong Delta tours usually include exploring small canals by a sampan boat, visiting villages and islands, sampling exotic fruit and touring a coconut candy farm. Yum!

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City: For your two nights in Saigon, stay in District 1 to be right in the middle of everything, District 3 if you’d like a more relaxed stay that’s still only moments away from the action or District 4 for a real local experience.

Extension Option

If you’re able to extend your tour to 2 weeks in Vietnam, you’ll have more time for these excursions. Any 2 week Vietnam itinerary should include these!

Da Nang has lots to offer .  If you are comfortable on a scooter or motorbike, you can ride from Hue to Da Nang (before going to Hoi An), through the Hai Van Pass . 

This route used to be a little dangerous due to all the cars and trucks using the pass.

But since they have built the new freeway and tunnel there is very little traffic, making it a very enjoyable and incredibly scenic ride.  

The best way to do this is by motorbike tour from Hue, to either Da Nang or to Hoi An, or in reverse. 

Setting out from Da Nang, Ba Na Hills is a scooter ride away.  You may recognize the bridge seemingly held up by two large hands.

Between Da Nang and Hoi An lies Marble Mountain , and to the east of Da Nang there’s a large Buddhist temple complex and pagoda called Chua Linh Ung .

If you have longer in Vietnam and would like to explore more of this beautiful country, combine our North and South options below to create a 2 weeks in Vietnam itinerary. 

2 Week Vietnam Itinerary – 1 Week in the North

Start your 2 weeks in Vietnam in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city, with beautiful architecture, culture, and food. 

While in Hanoi don’t forget to try egg coffee, fresh beer (Bia hơi), and especially the regional dish of Hanoi, Bun Cha .   (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Hanoi: Spend the night in Hanoi.  We recommend staying right in the Old Quarter.

Ha Long Bay, with its beautiful limestone islands, is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. 

It’s a must-see while in Vietnam, with an overnight boat tour to the islands, and other fun activities like SUPing, kayaking, and exploring caves. 

The easiest way to see Ha Long Bay is to organize a tour from Hanoi . (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Ha Long Bay: Spend the first night at Ha Long Bay, preferably on board a junk boat.  Alternatively, spend the night on Cat Ba Island .  Return to Hanoi, and spend the second night there, ready to head to Sapa in the morning.

Think of beautiful rice terraces set high up in the mountains, trekking, and staying in mountain lodges. 

Sapa is located in the northwest part of the country, and best seen by a two-day tour from Hanoi. (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Sapa: Spend two nights in Sapa.  Consider a mountain lodge for the true Sapa experience, and then hop on the bus back to Hanoi early the following day.  Then fly from Hanoi to Hue.

If you would prefer not to fly, you can take an overnight train or bus from Hanoi to Hue instead, arriving in the morning of Day 7.

The old imperial city still has many secrets to uncover. 

Hidden behind towering walls and large gates, you can explore where the last Emperor ruled from before abdicating his rule in favor of Ho Chi Minh.

This is where the North Vietnamese overtook the city, sparking a battle that lasted for almost a month in what was known as the Tet Offensive. (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Hue: Spend the night in town.  Leave your bags at your hotel while you explore the city the next morning, then head to Hoi An after lunch. 

The most spectacular way is on a motorbike tour through the Hai Van Pass .  The operators will take you on the back of a motorbike, and deliver both you and your luggage to your hotel in Hoi An.

Head to the beach during the day and relax on one of the many lounge chairs offered by the restaurants lining the foreshore of Central Vietnam.

In the evening enjoy the magical old town that comes alive at night with lights, markets, food, and more!  (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Hoi An: Spend the night in Hoi An, and fly from nearby Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City, or head to Nha Trang to link up with the Southern Vietnam Itinerary below.

READ MORE: Add these things to do in Hoi An to your 2 week Vietnam itinerary!

Extension Options

If you want more time in the north during your 2 week Vietnam itinerary, add on these trips such as Ninh Binh and some cool national parks.

Considered the inland version of Halong Bay, Ninh Binh is best seen by boat, on a pushbike, or scooter. 

We spent two full days in Ninh Binh and enjoyed a pushbike ride in the surrounding area.

We then hired a scooter in Ninh Binh and set out to see more of the beautiful lush hills, taking a boat ride through Tam Coc, and visiting pagodas.

You can easily book an awesome 2-day, 1-night tour of Ninh Binh from Hanoi if you’re not comfortable riding a scooter in the crazy Vietnam traffic.

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is home to over 300 caves and grottoes.  This UNESCO World Heritage Site protects the oldest karst system in Vietnam. 

It comprises of a precious ecosystem, limestone forest, and the world’s largest cave, Son Doong . 

The park offers eco-tourism, mountain climbing, trekking, flora and fauna, and caving. 

Some of this can be done independently, but tours are often the best option to get the most out of your time. 

The My Son ruins are another important UNESCO World Heritage site in central Vietnam. 

This temple complex was built by the Champas during their rule, and was influenced by Hinduism. 

The ruins of the brick temples and sculptures are often likened to Angkor Wat in Cambodia or Bagan in Myanmar.

Book a tour of My Son to make the most of your experience.

Ba Be Lake is the centre of the National Park, and of the Ba Be Lake legend. 

People believe that the lake was formed by an enchantress, who cursed the people of the surrounding area for not showing compassion to her when she asked for help.

Legends aside, Ba Be Lake offers a wide range of activities, from trekking, kayaking, motor-biking, waterfalls, caves, and the natural beauty and diversity of the area. 

The highest point of Bach Ma National Park is the 1450m high mountain of the same name. 

The park is known for its biodiversity, with lots of birds, flora, mammals, and primates.

The government finally protected the area in 1962, after the area was greatly damaged due to the use of agent orange during the Vietnam War.

The area is now safe for people to explore and is best seen with a tour guide . 

You can hike the Five Lakes Cascade Trail taking in the waterfalls, visit the monastery, and hike the Pheasant Trail .  

A visit to the demilitarized zone (DMZ), is a great one-day outing for history buffs. 

The DMZ area was the dividing line between North and South Vietnam during the war, and as a result, saw heavy fighting. 

The tour explains the extent of the fighting in this area, and the importance of the location in the Vietnam War. 

2 Week Vietnam Itinerary – 1 Week in the South

Next on your 2 weeks in Vietnam, spend 1 week in the south of Vietnam. You could easily spend 2 weeks in Vietnam in just the north or the south, but you can also spread out your time between both areas.

Our Southern itinerary begins in Nha Trang.  Either fly there from Saigon or Hanoi, or take a bus down from Hoi An if you’re continuing on from our Northern Itinerary.

Nha Trang is the most famous seaside resort in Vietnam and is known for its white-sand beaches, coastal islands, and clear waters with abundant marine life, making it perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling. 

The town itself also offers interesting cultural sites close by, and places where you can pamper yourself with a mud-bath, or enjoy a seafood dinner. 

Where to stay in Nha Trang: Spend a night in Nha Trang, and take a bus or private car to Dalat the next morning.

After a relaxing time on the beach, it’s time to get some more culture in during your 2 week Vietnam itinerary! 

Dalat is heavily influenced by the colonial period from the French occupation, as the French built their holiday homes here to take advantage of the temperate weather.

With beautiful buildings, gardens, interesting architecture, coffee and tea plantation tours, waterfalls, mountain biking, hiking, and canyoning , you don’t want to miss out on this city!

Where to stay in Dalat: Spend the night in Dalat, and take a bus or private car to Mui Ne the next morning.

READ MORE: Learn more about what to do in Dalat with our Dalat city guide .

Three main things are offered in this beautiful resort destination; relaxation, watersports, and sand dunes.

Mui Ne beach is dotted with resorts, hotels, and hostels, and is a great place to just sit and enjoy your surroundings. 

Although Mui Ne is more than just the beach, this area is set up for tourists and has one main street of shops, cafes, bars, and shopping.

Being a beach town, watersports are a big thing here, and just about everything is on offer from kitesurfing to parasailing. 

The Mui Ne sand dunes are popular, and a spectacular sight. 

There are two locations, the smaller, closer, red sand dunes, and the white sand dunes about 26km from town. 

Tours are available for both locations and you can also hire dune buggies, or go sledding! 

Where to stay in Mui Ne: Spend a night in Mui Ne, then shake the sand from your belongings and take a bus or the train to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) the next morning.

There’s so much to see and experience in this historic city, including day tours to some pretty important locations, that you’ll need two days .  

On the first day, you’ll head out into Ho Chi Minh City.  It has some great cultural sites, like the Vietnam War Museum, Independence Palace, Notre Dame, and it also boasts some pretty great nightlife too.  

For the second day, we suggest you head out of the city on a day tour.  There are two great options: The Chu Chi Tunnels, or a trip to the Mekong Delta. (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City: For your two nights in Saigon, stay in District 1 to be right in the middle of everything, District 3 if you’d like a more relaxed stay that’s still only moments away from the action or District 4 for a real local experience. Fly to Phu Quoc Island on Day 6.

Phu Quoc is a small island off the coast of Cambodia, lined with white sand beaches and palm trees.  

There are many resorts along the southwest coast providing you with ample opportunity for some relaxation time, while you swim, and eat your last fill of tasty Vietnamese food.   

Phu Quoc island is home to mountains, tropical rainforest, hiking and wildlife, all within its National Park. 

Lots of tours are available to explore the island which offers snorkelling as well, or you can hire a scooter and set off by yourself.

Where to stay in Phu Quoc Island: Spend two relaxing nights on Phu Quoc Island, then fly back to Saigon to catch your onward flight!

If you have more time to spend during your 2 weeks in Vietnam, take the ferry to the mainland, and continue overland to some of the extension options listed below, or to Cambodia.

If you have more time for your 2 week Vietnam itinerary, or you want to further explore one area rather than hopping around, here are some ideas!

Depending on what you did in 7 days for our Southern Vietnam Itinerary, if you have time you might like to see the other option best explored out of Ho Chi Minh City.  (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

During the French occupation, and later the Saigon regime, this island was used to house political prisoners and prisoners that were considered especially dangerous.

Aside from its harrowing past, the island is known for its natural beauty with over 80% of the island being a National Park. 

These days the island is frequented for its spectacular snorkelling and diving, with abundant coral reefs, beautiful beaches, and hidden lagoons.   

Can Tho is the de facto capital of the delta region and an unassuming city full of life. 

Most of the activity happens around the pier where you can enjoy great food and cold beer. 

Boat rides are available to show you more of the city and surrounding area, and visit some early-morning markets. 

If you’d like a little break from the tourists and are looking to just relax and hang out with the locals, Qui Nhon is the place to come . 

Unspoiled by tourism, this sleepy town has squeaky white sand beaches, snorkeling, swimming, temples, and museums. 

Cat Tien National Park is comprised of two sections Cat Loc, and Nam Cat Tien, the former being the most visited of the two. 

The river by Nam Cat Tien houses an important Hindu archaeological site and temple, where a large number of artifacts have been uncovered and are now in the Dalat museum. 

The national park has spectacular flora and fauna and trekking.

READ MORE: 33 amazing things to do in Vietnam !

Vietnam is a large and diverse country, with a great deal to offer the traveller who goes in with an open mind and heart. 

While we’ve listed what we feel are the main highlights, there is much more to be explored when you visit Vietnam.

Friendly people really make Vietnam a special place to visit.

The itineraries listed above are a bare minimum if you need to get the most out of a short amount of time. 

While doable, if possible it would be a much more relaxing trip if you could pad it out by adding a few days to your Vietnam itinerary, and slow down a little!

We hope you have a wonderful time there!

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Destinations: 6

Travel time (hr): 14+

Transportation costs (USD): 110+

Total cost (USD): 450+

Itinerary details

Things to do : War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Skydeck, Cu Chi Tunnels, Bui Vien Street.

Ho Chi Minh City   → Nha Trang :

• Transportation: Train
• Travel time: 8 hr 30 min
• Fare: 300,000 VND

Things to do : Nha Trang Beach, Hon Tre Island, Po Nagar Cham Towers, Long Son Pagoda.

Nha Trang → Da Nang :

• Transportation: Plane (Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Pacific Airlines, and Bamboo Airways)
• Flying time: 1 hr 5 min
• Airfare: 800,000 – 1,200,000 VND

Things to do : Ba Na Hills, My Khe Beach, Marble Mountains, Museum of Cham Sculpture.

Da Nang → Hoi An :

• Transportation: Bus (01)
• Travel time: 45 min
• Fare: 30,000 VND

Things to do : Hoi An Ancient Town, An Bang Beach, Bay Mau Coconut Forest.

From Hoi An, you take bus 01 back to  Da Nang  to fly to  Van Don Airport  (Quang Ninh).

• Flying time: 1 hr 20 min

Ha Long Bay

You take bus 14A or 14B to get to Ha Long Bay from Van Don Airport (free).

Things to do : Ha Long Bay, Bai Chay Beach, Tuan Chau Island.

Ha Long Bay → Hanoi :

• Transportation: Bus (Trung Thanh Limousine)
• Travel time: 1 hr 30 min
• Fare: 260,000 VND

Things to do : Hanoi Old Quarter, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, Dong Xuan Market, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ta Hien Street.

To reach Noi Bai International Airport from Hanoi city center and complete your 10-day itinerary in Vietnam, you can take bus number 86 for a fare of 35,000 VND.

A few notes

• The exchange rate for USD to VND in 2024 is approximately 1 USD to 25,000 VND.
• Please note that the travel time listed for each leg of the journey does not include airport check-in time. We recommend booking flights in advance to take advantage of lower prices.
• For train travel, we recommend booking tickets through the official website of the Vietnam Railway Corporation at dsvn.vn . This will ensure that you get the most up-to-date schedule information and the best prices.
• The recommendations for tours, hotels, bus operators, and airlines provided above are selected based on their suitability for travelers, with no advertising or affiliate marketing. You can rest assured that these suggestions will meet your needs.
• Although ten days may not be enough to fully explore Vietnam, we have selected the country’s most famous places to ensure that you have an unforgettable experience.

10 days in Vietnam costs

For an average expenditure of $450, many tourists can cover basic expenses for a 10-day trip to Vietnam. Here are some estimated fixed costs:

• Transportation costs around $110, depending on the types of transportation used.
• Accommodation in a private hotel or homestay costs about $15-$20 per person per night. Solo travelers may find hostels to be a more economical option at around $5 per night.
• Food expenses are estimated at around $15 per person per day, though this can vary depending on where and what you eat.
• Entrance fees for monuments and tourist attractions are generally between $1 and $5 per ticket, though prices may vary depending on the specific site.

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10 Days in Vietnam: 5 Best Itineraries in 2025

Wondering how to spend 10 days in Vietnam? Vietnam is a dream destination that includes everything from karst scenery and ancient towns to big cities and pristine beaches. Spending 10 days in Vietnam would give you the chance to sample all that the country has to offer…

In this article, we've described five magical 10-day Vietnam itineraries, to help you get some ideas for your dream trip.

• Itinerary #1: A Classic 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary
• Itinerary #2: 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary with Sapa
• Itinerary #3: 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary for Family
• Itinerary #4: 10-Day Northern & Central Vietnam
• Itinerary #5: 10-Day Southern Vietnam Itinerary
• How Much Does a 10-Day Trip in Vietnam Cost?

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Itinerary #1. A Classic 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary: From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

From the charming capital city of Hanoi to the ancient town of Hoi An , the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City , and the peaceful Mekong Delta , this itinerary covers the most popular destinations in Vietnam.

• Days 1–2: Explore the charming capital city of Hanoi
• Day 3: Halong Bay, one of the world's most beautiful natural wonders
• Days 4–5: Hoi An, a charming town with a well-preserved Old Town.
• Days 6–7: Ho Chi Minh City
• Days 8–9: The Mekong Delta
• Day 10: Departure

You'll explore the charming Old Quarter of Hanoi, take a cruise in the stunning Halong Bay, visit the well-preserved Old Town of Hoi An, and learn about the country's history in Ho Chi Minh City. You'll also experience local life and culture in the Mekong Delta at a floating market.

For a special experience, we can arrange many unique and authentic activities , such as paddling a Vietnamese basket boat to a fishing village and trying your hand at casting local fishing nets, indulging in a foodie tour, or taking a cooking class.

This itinerary is perfect for families or retired couples who want to experience the diversity of Vietnam's culture, history, and natural beauty in a short amount of time. With comfortable accommodations, private transportation, and knowledgeable guides, you'll have a hassle-free and unforgettable Vietnam trip.

You can contact us to tailor-make a tour for you if the above itinerary does not meet your requirements.

Itinerary #2. 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary with Sapa

This 10-day Vietnam itinerary with Sapa can be a great option for couples and families who are looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation . The itinerary covers some of the most popular destinations in Vietnam, from the charismatic capital city of Hanoi to the stunning natural wonders of Halong Bay , history-filled Hoi An , and the picturesque town of Sapa .

• Days 1–3: Hanoi
• Days 4–5: Sapa, a town in the mountains of north Vietnam
• Days 6–7: Halong Bay, one of the world's most beautiful natural wonders
• Days 8–9: Hoi An, a charming town with a well-preserved old district
• Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City

In this itinerary, you'll start in Hanoi , exploring its charming Old Quarter and enjoying its street food. Then, you'll take an overnight train north to the mountain town Sapa, where you can go hiking to discover north Vietnam's ethnic culture and stunning scenery.

The trekking in Sapa can be a great adventure for couples and families who enjoy hiking and exploring the outdoors. The overnight train to Sapa can also be a fun experience for families with children.

Next, you'd cruise around Halong Bay 's karst island wonders. After that, you'd fly to Da Nang on your way to Hoi An in central Vietnam, where insight-filled visits would unlock this town's essence: visit its Japanese Covered Bridge, Fukian Assembly Hall, and Old House of Tan Ky.

Finally, you'll fly to Ho Chi Minh City and visit its interesting highlights: the War Remnants Museum, the General Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Reunification Palace.

The itinerary also includes some cultural experiences , such as visiting local markets in Sapa. A cooking class in Hoi An could be a fun activity for couples and families who enjoy learning about local cuisine.

Contact us to customize an itinerary for you.

Itinerary #3. 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary for Family with Teenagers

This 10-day itinerary covering Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta is a great option for families with teenagers who want to explore Vietnam's culture, history, and natural beauty .

• Days 1–2: Arrival, Hanoi city tour
• Day 3: Ninh Binh day tour
• Day 4-5: Halong Bay cruise
• Day 6: Hoi An
• Day 7-8: Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 9-10: The Mekong Delta

The itinerary includes a mix of city tours, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities, making it a great way to keep teenagers engaged and interested throughout the trip. From exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to cruising through the stunning limestone cliffs of Halong Bay, there's something for everyone on this itinerary.

In addition, the itinerary includes a day trip to Ninh Binh, where you'll take a leisurely rowing-boat ride through an amazing tunnel cave and along a picturesque karst river. This is a great opportunity for families to get out of the city and experience Vietnam's natural beauty.

The itinerary also includes two days in Hoi An, where you can experience interesting activities , such as cycling the picturesque country roads, paddling a Vietnamese basket boat to a fishing village and trying your hand at casting local fishing nets, and enjoying an evening foodie walk.

To finish off, you would have a day trip to the Mekong Delta, where you'd take a boat trip to visit local villages and markets . This is a great way for families to learn about Vietnam's rural culture and way of life.

Itinerary #4. 10-Day Northern & Central Vietnam: History, Culture, and Nature

This 10-day itinerary will take you to see the highlights of northern and central Vietnam . It will give you a deeper discovery of Vietnam's culture, history, and natural beauty in just 10 days.

• Day 1-2: Hanoi
• Day 3-4: Halong Bay
• Day 5: Dong Hoi
• Day 6-7: Hue
• Day 8-9: Hoi An

One of the highlights of this itinerary is the Halong Bay Cruise , where you will spend a night on a boat and explore the stunning limestone cliffs and caves of Halong Bay. Travel with us to take a more-private-and-authentic craft (half the size of the usual group-tour boat) and explore the unspoiled areas of Halong Bay by junk.

Another highlight of this itinerary is visiting the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features stunning caves and underground rivers. This is a great opportunity for travelers who love adventure and exploring the outdoors.

Finally, visiting the Old Town of Hoi An is a great way to experience Vietnam's traditional architecture and culture . More interesting activities, such as an enjoying an evening foodie tour or taking a sunset cruise, would enrich your stay in Hoi An.

These highlights, combined with the other cultural experiences and outdoor activities included in the itinerary, make it a great option for families and couples who want to experience the best of northern and central Vietnam.

You can adjust the itinerary to your preferences and add or remove destinations as needed.

Itinerary #5. 10-Day Southern Vietnam Itinerary: Mekong Delta Tour & Beach Holiday

If you want a relaxed pace of travel , this 10-day itinerary is perfect for you. It focuses on southern Vietnam and takes you to explore the region's rich culture, authentic local life, and stunning beaches.

• Day 1-2: Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 3-4: The Mekong Delta
• Day 5-9: Phu Quoc free days
• Day 10: Back to Ho Chi Minh; departure

Starting and ending in the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh , this itinerary takes you on a journey to explore the local markets and way of life in the Mekong Delta region . After immersing yourself in the culture and scenery of the delta, you'd finish your trip with some dreamy relaxation on the tropical shores of Phu Quoc , sipping cocktails and soaking up the sun.

How Much Is a 10-Day Vietnam Tour?

Vietnam is a highly-affordable country that caters to a wide range of budgets. Whether you're looking for accommodation, restaurants, attractions, or tours, you'll find options that fit your budget.

For a 10-day private tour in Vietnam, the cost per person can range from approximately 1,000 to 3,500 USD, depending on whether you prefer budget or luxury options.

• For a medium budget, touring Vietnam typically costs around US$ 200-250 per day per person (including airfares within Vietnam, 4- or 5-star hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers).
• For a higher budget of US$250-350 per day per person , more comfort can be enjoyed (including airfares within Vietnam, 5-star or higher hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers).

Travel with us to enjoy a comfortable and flexible private tour. 

You're in Good Hands with Asia Highlights

At Asia Highlights we have lots of experience with creating the perfect trip for any traveler. We understand what makes traveling special and are dedicated to providing a unique and special experience.

Get a wonderful Vietnam vacation started by sending us a message . Or check out more of our Vietnam sample itineraries or Southeast Asia itineraries  for inspiration:

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

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Suggested Vietnam Itinerary: 10 Days, 2 Weeks, or 1 Month

Vietnam has become one of our favorite travel destinations. This post will help you create the best Vietnam itinerary for your own trip, whether it’s for 10 days, 2 weeks, or 1 month.

We had the good fortune of having friends who were living in Vietnam for several years. They showed us around Hanoi and introduced us to the culture. We loved visiting Vietnam so much, we’ve returned many times, staying longer each time.

In this article, we’ll focus on destinations in Vietnam that we personally know best, although we’ll also briefly cover other popular places to see.

Updated: January 2024. Originally published: 2019.

* Access our free Vietnam Destinations guide here * When to Visit Vietnam

We were a little shocked to learn that summer is a high season for visitors to Vietnam since it gets incredibly hot and humid. We personally prefer traveling to Vietnam in winter (October through March) for better temperatures.

Each region of Vietnam varies with the weather.

Hanoi in the North and DaLat in the mountains can actually get quite cold in mid-winter. Fall is probably the best time to visit Hanoi when the temperatures are moderate and rain is minimal. Mid-summer is their rainy season.

Hoi An and the Central Coast has a heavy rain season in October and November which may cause floods. And field burning can seriously affect air quality after harvests in April. January and February are ideal times to visit.

Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta in the South should be best from November through February. The hot, rainy season in the South tends to be April through September.

Finally, if you’re visiting in late January or February, be sure to look up the dates for Vietnam’s Tet Holiday . This is the country’s biggest celebration season, and many businesses stop operating for 3 to 10 days. The holiday makes it much more challenging to travel and find amenities that are open during this time.

Top Destinations in Vietnam

Our suggested itinerary does not include all of the best places to go in Vietnam–there are too many for that. But we wanted to give you an overview. Here is a quick summary, from North to South.

Sapa – Lush green mountain village with French colonial remnants

Hanoi – Vietnam’s capital. Absolutely fascinating, buzzing with motorcycle traffic, and charming Old Town. International airport is a common start or end point.

Ha Long Bay – Where thousands of steep limestone karsts dot the bay, one of Vietnam’s most visited places

Mai Chau – Minority ethnic village in a lush valley of rice fields

Ninh Binh – “Ha Long Bay on land” where impressive karsts rise from the land and rivers

Phong Nha – An up-and-coming National Park destination with enormous caves

Hue – Former national capital with citadel, and bordering the De-Militarized Zone during Vietnam-American War

Da Nang – Coastal city with growing international airport and beaches

Hoi An – Charming Ancient Town was once a major trading port, beach nearby

Nha Trang – Long white sand beaches

Da Lat – A fertile City of Eternal Spring in the mountains

Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. International airport is a common start or end point.

Phu Quoc – Island vacation destination

* Get our free Vietnam Travel Destinations e-guide *

Planning A Trip to Vietnam? We can help…

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Generally, we suggest staying in each destination for a minimum of two nights, ideally longer . 

If you can be content with “seeing less” and narrowing down the number of stops, we believe you’ll have a much more enjoyable trip.

To be honest, our first recommendation would be spending your whole ten days or two weeks in our favorite Vietnam destination: Hoi An .

With a nice Hoi An homestay as your base, you could do a number of great day trips . This is what we do when hosting our one-week Hoi An Un Tour .

But we also understand that most people do want to see more of Vietnam, especially if it may be your only chance to visit.

Which Vietnam airport should you fly to?

For this guide, we’ve written a North to South Vietnam Itinerary, however, it can be easily reversed to go South to North.

If you’re not able to book an “open jaw” ticket, flying into one city and out of another, you can always book an inter-country flight to get you back to your starting point. Just allow another half day for this additional travel.

To follow our itineraries below, it would be most ideal to fly into Hanoi and fly out of either Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City.

What will a Vietnam trip cost?

When it comes to Vietnam, your biggest expense is usually the flight to get there. Budget travelers can spend under $25/day USD per person, with meals to be had for as low as $2 and lodging under $20.

Of course, traveling around Vietnam means adding more transportation costs . Taking the train from North to South, for example, would be about $40 USD in a seat and around $65 in an air-conditioned sleeper. One-way flights covering the same distance range from $27 USD to $160.

Compare and book Vietnam transit tickets on BookAway here >

You can splurge for a one-hour massage starting at $12 USD. Book luxury hotel rooms for $60. And enjoy three-course meals for $10 to $30 per person.

That’s not to say you won’t find great value spending closer to the local standard, which we encourage.

All in all, 10 days in Vietnam could easily cost under $500 for food and lodging. Add a few hundred more for guided day tours and other special experiences.

The last time we stayed longer-term in Hoi An, our monthly total was under $750 for all our living expenses.

Learn about our Vietnam trip consultations and other services here

Here is a quick overview of our suggested itineraries for Vietnam. Read on for more details about each place.

Vietnam Itinerary: 10 Days, 3+ Cities

Arrive to Hanoi – Day 0 Day 1 – 4: Hanoi Day 4-5: Overnight trip. Choose from:   * Ninh Binh   * Ha Long Bay Day 5: Fly Hanoi to Da Nang Day 5 – 10: Hoi An Day 10: Fly out of Da Nang

Vietnam Itinerary: 2 Weeks, 5 Destinations

Arrive to Hanoi – Day 0 Day 1 – 4: Hanoi Day 4 – 6: Overnight trip. Choose from:   * Mai Chau   * Ninh Binh   * Ha Long Bay Day 7: Fly Hanoi to Da Nang, Train to Hue Day 7 – 8: Hue Day 9: Hue to Hoi An Motorbike Tour Day 9 – 13: Hoi An Day 13: Fly Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh (or back to Hanoi)   * Overnight in HCMC

Vietnam Itinerary: 1 Month North to South Trip

Arrive to Hanoi – Day 0 Day 1 – 4: Hanoi Day 4 – 6: Overnight Trip #1. Choose from:   * Ninh Binh   * Ha Long Bay Day 7 – 9: Overnight Trip #2   * Mai Chau Day 9: Fly Hanoi to Da Nang, Train to Hue Day 9 – 11: Hue Day 11: Hue to Hoi An Motorbike Tour Day 11 – 17: Hoi An Day 17: Fly to Da Lat Day 17 – 21: Da Lat Day 21: Fly or bus to Ho Chi Minh Day 21 – 28: Ho Chi Minh City Day 28: Fly out of HCMC or back to Hanoi

  Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means if you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products and services we believe in, and the opinions expressed in this post are our own.

Vietnam Itinerary Highlights & Where to Stay

Whether you’re spending ten days in Vietnam, two weeks, or more than a month, here’s a bit more about what to see, foods to try, and best places to stay in each destination.

Hanoi: Vietnam’s Capitol in the North

What to do: Hanoi is one of the most fascinating cities we’ve ever been to. With the number of motorcycles and the things they carry, one of the city’s biggest marvels is the traffic.

You will need to relearn how to cross the street . 

Hanoi has much to offer visitors. From delicious street food to historic landmarks, most people concentrate their visit around the Old Town French Quarter area, North of Hoàn Kiếm Lake. From here, you can make a base to see the city as well as day trips to surrounding areas.

Learn more about the city’s points of interest in our article: Hanoi on a Budget + Map

We recommend:

– Walking around one of the many lakes first thing in the morning – Trying coconut coffee at Cong Caphe – Trying egg coffee – Eating Bún chả (Vermicelli noodles, grilled pork, herbs, fish sauce) – Taking a food tour with a local

Click to see Hanoi tours here >

Where to stay in Hanoi:

Proximity to Hanoi’s Old Quarter is recommended. The following are highly rated accommodations in this area:

Little Charm Hanoi Hostel – $ – Elegant dorm style with continental breakfast. Check rates & availability >

Hanoi Garden House – $$ – Rooms with private bath and breakfast. Check rates & availability >

Eco Boutique Hotel  – $$$ – New rooms with private bath and breakfast. Check rates & availability >

Mai Chau: Overnight Trip from Hanoi

What to do:  Nestled in a scenic valley in Vietnam’s Northern mountains, you’ll find traditional stilt house villages of Vietnam’s ethnic minority peoples: White Thai and Black Thai.

Tourism found Mai Châu years ago, but it’s still a great place to slow down and encounter another culture.

Due to its distance from Hanoi (3 – 4 hours if you hire a driver), we have excluded Mai Châu from the 10 day itinerary but provide it as an option if you’re staying for 2 weeks or more. Mai Châu may be considered an alternative to Sapa, another mountain destination in the North which tends to get more attention.

Learn more about things to do in our article: Mai Châu on a Budget

– Staying overnight in a traditional homestay – Exploring the villages by bicycle

Not ready to visit Mai Chau on your own? This guided overnight trip includes transportation, lodging, and meals.

Where to stay in Mai Chau:

Avoid the main town and stay in a village instead. For the best impact on your own experience and the community, book private rooms in a family homestay.

Truong Huy Homestay – $ – Friendly hosts, rustic rooms, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Mai Chau Countryside Homestay – $/$$ – Friendly hosts, variety of rooms, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Mai Chau Valley Retreat – $$$ – Oasis in the rice fields, modern rooms, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Ninh Binh: Day Trip or Overnight Trip from Hanoi

What to do: Just two hours South of Hanoi by train or car, Ninh Binh province can technically be visited as a day trip though an overnight would be preferred.

Sometimes called the “Ha Long Bay On Land,” it is a less crowded alternative to Vietnam’s coastal karsts. Similar magnificent cliffs just up from the flat countryside, with epic paddleboat rides available on the rivers that wind through the karsts with their secret temples and caves.

For the top sights in Ninh Binh, see our article: Ninh Binh on a Budget + Bicycle Routes Map

– Trang An boat tour (over the one at Tam Coc) – Cycling around Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda, and Mua Cave – Don’t bother much with Ninh Binh the town, except to eat at Trung Tuyết

Not ready to visit Ninh Binh on your own?  This guided day trip includes transportation, meals, boat ride, and bicycle ride.

Where to stay in Ninh Binh:

Tam Coc Moonlight Bungalow – $ – Quaint private rooms or dorm style, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Mountain Lake Homestay – $/$$ – Private rooms with lake view, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Tam Coc Wonderland Bungalow – $$/$$$ – Private bamboo rooms, views, pool, breakfast. Check rates & availability >

Ha Long Bay: Day Trip or Overnight Trip from Hanoi

What to do:  The famous Ha Long Bay is another place that can technically be done as a  day trip from Hanoi , though most people recommend spending two or three nights to make the best of it.

This is one of Vietnam’s most visited spots, so it gets very crowded and full of cruise boats. Most people tend to book a cruise package, which includes transportation from Hanoi, sleeping cabin, meals, guide, and options for hiking, kayaking, or bamboo boats.

A less crowded alternative is visiting from the nearby Cat Ba Island port through Lan Ha Bay . Or, as we mentioned above, visit Ninh Binh (a.k.a. Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay On Land) instead.

Check out Ha Long Bay cruise options here >

Hue: Central Vietnam

What to do: The city of Huế has had a very important role in the region’s history. It was once the capital during the Nguyen Dynasty, when a large citadel and moat was built to protect the Imperial City.

Later, being right at the line between North and South, it saw one of the biggest battles in the Vietnam-American War. 

One or two days is generally enough to see the main sights of Huế, though we skip it in the 10 day itinerary to leave more time for Hoi An.

For top things to do in Huế, see our article: Hue on a Budget

– Do a city walking tour with Thu – Cycle to Thien Mu Pagoda and around the Citadel if weather permits and you feel comfortable in some traffic – Transit from Hue to Da Nang/Hoi An via motorbike tour with Phu – Check out these unique tours and activities led by locals

Where to stay in Hue:

Hue Sweethouse Homestay – $ – Riverside guesthouse with private bathroom, parking, wifi, and breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Hue Riverside Villas – $$/$$$ – Riverside property with contemporary villas, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Da Nang: Central Vietnam

Da Nang is a big city with an international airport on Central Vietnam’s  Coast. If you’re looking for a beach resort with modern amenities like malls and movie theaters nearby, you may want to stay here longer.

Not being big city people, we typically just use Da Nang to get to Hoi An and Hue.

As mentioned above, we highly recommend a motorbike tour with our friend, Phu . Based in Hoi An, he specializes in the back roads that lead to traditional villages, scenic viewpoints, and waterfalls around Da Nang, Hoi An, and over the Hai Van Pass.

For off-the-beaten-path things to do in Da Nang, see our article: Unique Da Nang Guide

– Ride to the Son Tra Peninsula (“Monkey Mountain”) and see the Lady Buddha temple grounds – Visit Hai Van Pass via motorbike tour with Phu – Check out these unique tours and activities led by locals

Where to stay in Da Nang:

Mid-Range Luxury Beach-side: Voco Ma Belle Hotel (IHG) Central Apartment with Balcony:  Han Apartment Central Budget Homestay:  Bao Tran Homestay

Hoi An: Our Favorite Place in Vietnam

What to do: Hội An, just 45 minutes South of Da Nang along the coast, is one of our favorite places in the world.

Once one of the most important trading ports in the world, the well-preserved Old Town is full of color and charm. Granted, large tourist groups make Old Town quite crowded at peak times, but Hội An has so much more to offer in terms of food, scenic surroundings, and day trips.

For the best things to see, do and eat, check out our article: Hoi An Itinerary + Walking Map  

– Visit the markets in the morning – Visit Old Town and the river in the evening – Go on a bike ride through the rice paddies – Have a meal at Nu Eatery – Try these other Best Places to Eat in Hoi An – Visit the Marble Mountains and these other Day trips from Hoi An – Try one of these unique experiences led by locals

For more important things to know read: What NOT to do in Hoi An

Where to stay in Hoi An:

We have a full Guide on Where to Stay in Hoi An , complete with recommendations based on your trip goals and budget. Our all-time favorite homestay has retired, but we’ve now stayed for almost a month here:

Yen Homestay Villa – $ – Friendly and family-run, modern hotel-style rooms, pool, bicycles and breakfast included.

Check rates and availability for Yen Homestay on booking.com >>

Also, here’s a quick video recap from our un-tour in Hoi An, so you can get a feel for the city:

DaLat: South Vietnam Mountains

What to do:  Da Lat, known as a City of Eternal Spring, is a nice mountain retreat when the rest of Vietnam is all heat and humidity. For this reason, it’s quite popular with domestic tourists.

Da Lat is known for both natural and man-made landmarks. Popular destinations include its walking street (Hoa Binh area), some unconventional architectural marvels (like the “Crazy House”), flower gardens, and nearby waterfalls.

For the best things to see, do and eat, check out our article: DaLat Itinerary + Walking Map  

– Visit the market and lake area – Try local foods like banh can and hot soy milk – Take day trips to explore nearby natural beauty

Where to stay in Da Lat:

Pretty Backpackers Hostel – $ – Friendly, family-run hostel with bunk bed dorm rooms. Check price & availability >

HomeSweetHome – $$ – Spacious, modern homestay with exceptional breakfast. Check price & availability >

Ho Chi Minh City a.k.a. Saigon

What to do: Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest city with 13 million in the metropolitan area. HCMC is the country’s financial center, home to numerous industries and modern amenities. Like Hanoi, the city is buzzing with motion and tourism centers around the French colonial district (District 1).

Ho Chi Minh City also has a major international airport, so even if you choose not to stay long, it is often a convenient city to fly in and out of. 

Check out these unique experiences in Ho Chi Minh City led by locals>

– Explore the expansive markets for produce and goods – Find historic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Post Office – Enjoy all kinds of cafes and restaurants – Check out the unique experience listings for HCMC on LikeLocal

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City:

Coucou Homestead – $/$$ – Private room or small shared dorm, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Hammock Hotel Fine Arts Museum – $$/$$$ – Stylish rooms with rooftop deck. Check rates & availability >

Adora Art Hotel – $$$ – Elegant rooms and suites, breakfast buffet included. Check rates & availability >

What travel restrictions and rules are in place in Vietnam? Find post-pandemic travel updates for Vietnam here: What you need to know about Vietnam travel right now

More Resources to Help You Plan Your Trip to Vietnam amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; amzn_assoc_search_bar = "false"; amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "cgbook-20"; amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual"; amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; amzn_assoc_region = "US"; amzn_assoc_title = "Vietnam Travel Guides"; amzn_assoc_linkid = "611a8fdeff05739fce0da941c788afe2"; amzn_assoc_asins = "1426213638,1786570645,1786570300,1640971033"; 

1. LikeLocal – Unique experiences led by locals. Learn a craft, share a meal in someone’s home, or even attend a Vietnamese wedding!

Browse Vietnam experience listings on LikeLocal here >

2. GetYourGuide – GetYourGuide also has fantastic experiences across Vietnam, including tours, classes, and even photo shoots.

Browse Experiences in Vietnam here >

3. BookAway – Compare and book Vietnam transit tickets on BookAway. It’s not easy to find train tickets, bus tickers, or private car hires online for Southeast Asia. This is one of the few platforms where you can book in advance with your credit card, in your home currency, and even read user reviews of the different options.

3. ✈️ Protect your Vietnam trip with Travel Insurance – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

Still need help planning your Vietnam trip?

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How to spend 10 days in Vietnam — 5 unique itineraries

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This e-mail is to express how we enjoyed the trip we had with Henry as driver and guide, all over Malaysia. Henry was very committed in his role: he could ...

Getting ready for your trip to Vietnam ? The prospect of exploring this captivating country, with its rich history and delectable cuisine, can be both exciting and daunting. Fear not! We've handcrafted a selection of inspiring 10-day Vietnam itineraries to help you navigate this remarkable Southeast Asian destination.

See our other Vietnam itineraries:  5 days | 14 days

Itinerary #1: Vietnam family adventure

Itinerary #2: vietnam culinary discovery, itinerary #3: indochina’s unesco treasures, itinerary #4: the wonders of vietnam, itinerary #5: luxury vietnam, let us plan your trip for you, travel ideas for vietnam.

Created by local experts

Vietnam Culinary Discovery

Vietnamese cuisine can be divided into three categories, each pertaining to a specific region, namely the North, Centre and South. You will visit all of these on this culinary tour of Vietnam. Awaken all of your senses to the wonderful sights, sounds and aromas of this fascinating country.

Very Vietnam

Vietnam is full of surprises, seamlessly mixing both ancient and modern. See rice paddies, traditional villages, markets, temples and pagodas. Discover romantic cities, cruise around mystical Halong Bay, laze on pristine beaches and get out and about in exuberant Ho Chi Minh City.

Cultural Saigon

Southern Vietnam is home to modern Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant southern capital full of historic attraction and old Saigonese charm. Soak up some café culture, enjoy authentic street food, and get a taste of the city’s thriving markets.

Southern Vietnam Explored

Discover the charms of Southern Vietnam. From the excitement of Ho Chi Minh City to the sleepy scenic canals of the Mekong Delta with its traditional villages and floating markets, Vietnam’s deep south is one of the most appealing parts of the country.

Vietnam Culinary Experience

Embark on a Vietnamese culinary adventure, taking cooking classes in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Get cultural in the imperial city of Hue with a visit to some royal tombs, cruise around stunning Halong Bay a final stay in nostalgic Hanoi before your return home.

Ancient Meets Modern

A trip to Vietnam offers a unique adventure. From ancient Hanoi to imperial, romantic Hue, coastal Hoi An with its atmospheric ruins to burgeoning Saigon or Ho Chi Minh City as it is known today, Vietnam is both an exciting and a rewarding destination.

Explore the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Vietnam with this 10-day itinerary , from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beauty of Halong Bay, the historic sites of Hoi An and Hue, and the vibrant markets of Ho Chi Minh City, all designed with families in mind.

Itinerary overview

This family-friendly Vietnam trip begins in Hanoi ,  offering an exploration of the city and a scenic Halong Bay cruise with activities like cave visits. After an orientation tour in Hanoi, you'll visit Hoi An to learn about silk production and explore historic streets, followed by a boat trip to Hue. 

In Ho Chi Minh City , discover the Cu Chi Tunnel's iconic landmarks, and shopping at Ben Thanh Market. Your journey ends with a serene Mekong Delta boat tour, including a visit to Cai Rang Floating Market. Read more.

Cai Rang floating market, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Check this overview of the 10 days in Vietnam itinerary.

Day 1: Hanoi Old Quarter

• Arrival in Hanoi
• Transfer to the hotel
• Explore the city or opt for optional excursions
• Visit Ngoc Son Temple, a beautiful and sacred place located on a small island in the center of Hoan Kiem Lake. Enjoy the picturesque views, especially during sunset, and learn about its historical significance

Day 2: Start Halong Bay Cruise

• Visit Hong Ngoc Humanitarian Center
• Explore Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with activities like cave visits, swimming, kayaking, and unique culinary experiences
• Enjoy on-board activities at night  

Day 3: Cruise & transfer to Hanoi

• Morning Tai Chi
• Halong Bay sunrise
• Return to Hanoi
• Free time to explore and savor street food

Day 4: Orientation Tour of Hanoi

• Visit sites like the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Leisure time for personal exploration

Day 5: Explore Hoi An

• Visit Hoi An Silk Village
• Learn about silk production
• Enjoy lunch at the village

Day 6: Perfume River in Hue

• Morning boat trip on Perfume River
• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda
• Explore the Imperial Citadel
• See Dong Ba Market and Tu Duc Royal Tomb

Days 7: Cu Chi Tunnels and Saigon Highlights

• Explore Cu Chi Tunnels
• Take a Saigon walking tour, including visits to Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office
• Visit landmarks
• Enjoy panoramic views
• Shop at Ben Thanh Market

Day 8: Mekong Delta by Boat

• Head to My Tho
• Explore the Mekong Delta by boat
• Witness daily life along the riverbanks
• Drive to Can Tho  

Day 9: Visit Cai Rang Floating Market

• Observe local trade traditions on the water  

Days 9-10: Leisure Time in Ho Chi Minh City

• Enjoy leisure time and optional excursions.
• Transfer to the airport for departure on Day 10

Enjoy the ease of our tailor-made trip service –   book this journey without the hassle of planning and booking. 

Panorama Aerial view of Hoi An ancient town © Shutterstock

Embark on a gastronomic adventure through the heart of Vietnam with our meticulously crafted 10-day culinary discovery itinerary. From savoring authentic Vietnamese cuisine in Hanoi to mastering the art of crafting iconic dishes, cruising the emerald waters of Halong Bay, and exploring the cultural and historical wonders of Hue, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City, every day promises a feast for your senses. 

Embark on a Vietnam culinary discovery, starting with hands-on cooking classes in Hanoi where you'll learn to make spring rolls and Pho, then explore cultural gems and enjoy a Water Puppet Show.

Next, cruise through Halong Bay , with cave exploration and seaside dining. In Hue, discover ancient villages, take a river cruise, and visit landmarks. Hoi An offers more culinary delights with cooking classes and exploration of the historic town, while in Ho Chi Minh City, explore Chinatown, markets, and landmarks, concluding your journey with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Discover Vietnam’s diverse flavors, from street food stalls to cooking classes and authentic restaurant dining.

Water puppet show in Hanoi © Shutterstock

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

• Check-in at the hotel
• Dine at an authentic Vietnamese restaurant  

Day 2: Hanoi Cooking Class and City Tour

• Learn to make dishes like spring rolls and Pho
• Explore Hanoi's landmarks
• Enjoy a Water Puppet Show

Day 3: Hanoi to Halong Bay - Overnight Cruise

• Head to Halong Bay
• Embark on a traditional junk boat
• Explore caves

Day 4: Halong Cruise and Flight to Hue

• Morning island and cave exploration
• Return to Halong City
• Catch an afternoon flight to Hue

Day 5: Hue Ancient Villages Tour

• Explore ancient villages near Hue, including Thuy Bieu
• Enjoy a river cruise
• Explore the Imperial City
• Visit Dong Ba Market

Day 6: Hue to Hoi An Via Lang Co Beach

• Visit Khai Dinh Mausoleum
• Depart for Hoi An with scenic stops
• Explore Cham Museum
• Visit Non-Nuoc Beach and Marble Mountain  

Day 7: Hoi An Cooking Class and Old Town Tour

• Join a cooking class
• Visit the market
• Cruise the Hoi An River
• Explore Hoi An's historic town in the afternoon  

Day 8: Chinatown and Ho Chi Minh City Sightseeing

• Explore Chinatown
• Visit Binh Tay market and Thien Hau Temple
• Discover Ho Chi Minh City's landmarks  

Day 9: Cu Chi Tunnels and More Sightseeing

• Morning visit to Cu Chi Tunnels
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 10: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City

• Enjoy your last day at leisure
• Depart from Tan Son Nhat Airport  

Experience carefree booking with our   tailor-made trip service .

Halong Bay, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Explore the enchanting landscapes and cultural wonders of Vietnam and beyond with our meticulously crafted 10-day itinerary . From the vibrant streets of Hanoi to the mystical caves of Ninh Binh, the serene waters of Halong Bay, the spiritual city of Luang Prabang, and the awe-inspiring Angkor Temple Complex in Siem Reap, this trip is sure to be a great use of 10 days in Vietnam.

Embark on a 10-day journey through Indochina's UNESCO treasures, starting in Hanoi with museum visits and a scenic bike ride around Hoan Kiem Lake. Explore Ninh Binh's ancient capital and Halong Bay's captivating overnight cruise. Continue to Luang Prabang for temple visits and a riverboat journey, then uncover Cambodia 's Angkor Temple Complex , in   Siem Reap , concluding with a temple trail and Apsara Dance Show.

Wat Xieng Thong buddhist temple in Luang Prabang, Laos © Shutterstock

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival and Exploration

• Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport
• Explore Hanoi

Day 2: Hanoi Full Day City Tour

• Explore Hanoi's museums
• Take a bike tour around Hoan Kiem Lake  

Day 3: Ninh Binh and Thien Ha Cave Exploration

• Visit Hoa Lu
• Explore temples
• Experience Thien Ha Cave in northern Vietnam, a region known for its unspoiled natural beauty and outdoor activities like hiking and visiting waterfalls

Day 4: Halong Bay Overnight Cruise

• Enjoy a Halong Bay cruise

Day 5: Return to Hanoi

• Start with Tai Chi on the cruise deck

Day 6: Luang Prabang Discovery

• Explore Luang Prabang
• Visit temples
• Enjoy a sunset visit to Vat Prabaht Tai

Day 7: Mekong River Exploration

• Board a riverboat to Pak Ou Caves
• Explore villages along the Mekong River
• Return to Luang Prabang

Day 8: Transfer to Siem Reap

• Visit museums
• Fly to Siem Reap  

Day 9: Angkor Temple Complex Discovery

• Explore Angkor Thom
• Visit Bayon and Preah Khan temples
• Explore Angkor Wat  

Day 10: Continuing Along the Temple Trail

• Visit various temples in the Angkor area
• Watch an Apsara Dance Show

Simplify your travel with our   Vietnam local travel experts.

Looking for ideas for exploring North Vietnam? You'll find it in our North Vietnam itineraries .

Ninh Binh in Vietnam © Shutterstock

Explore Vietnam's premier destinations on this comprehensive 10-day tour , spanning from the lively capital Hanoi to the enchanting Halong Bay. Experience serene river cruises along the Perfume River, delve into the rich history of renowned tombs and temples, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City.

The 10-day Vietnam Wonders expedition offers an enthralling journey through the country's cultural riches and breathtaking landscapes. Starting in Hanoi, your adventure commences with the enchanting Water Puppet Show, followed by a cultural exploration of the city's landmarks. 

Discover the mystical beauty of Halong Bay, then venture to Hue for historical insights and relaxation at a local spa. Journey through the scenic Hai Van Pass to Hoi An, with a stop at Thien Mu Pagoda, before exploring Hoi An's ancient town and market. 

Visit Cai Be's floating market and Cu Chi Tunnels' historical significance, and delve into the vibrant Chinatown and temples of Ho Chi Minh City. Your expedition concludes with leisure time in the city before departure from Tan Son Nhat Airport.

Ready to explore Vietnam? Follow our Vietnam trip planning guide and start planning your perfect trip today.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum on the Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival and City Tour

• Arrive in Hanoi
• Attend a Water Puppet Show

Day 2: Hanoi Cultural Tour

• Visit Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum
• Visit One-Pillar Pagoda
• Explore the Army Museum

Day 3: Discover Halong Bay

• Experience Halong Bay's beauty on a boat cruise

Day 4-5: Hue Sightseeing

• Explore historic Hue
• Visit royal tombs

Day 5: Hue to Hoi An Via Hai Van Pass

• Take a dragon boat ride
• Depart for Hoi An via Hai Van Pass

Day 6: Walking Tour of Hoi An

• Explore Hoi An's historic town
• Explore ancient houses
• Cross the Japanese bridge

Day 7: Cai Be Floating Market

• Travel to Cai Be
• Enjoy a boat ride to the floating market
• Cruise through fruit orchards

Day 8: Cai Rang Floating Market and Mekong Delta Tour

• Visit the Cai Rang floating market
• Explore the Mekong Delta

Day 9: Cu Chi Tunnels and Sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City

• Visit Cu Chi Tunnels
• Explore Ho Chi Minh City's Chinatown
• Visit temples and historic sites

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City Departure

• Enjoy a leisurely day

Overwhelmed by the planning and booking process? Let us handle it –   book this trip today.

Cu Chi tunnels in Vietnam © Shutterstock

Vietnam offers stunning beaches, lush national parks, historic temples, hill-tribe villages, top-tier museums, private transfers, speedboat excursions, and luxurious hotels, making it a destination that combines surprise and gratification at every turn. Discover this and more on this luxury Vietnam voyage .

Indulge in a luxurious Vietnam journey, starting with a lavish stay in Hanoi and exploring its attractions. Cruise through the mesmerizing Halong Bay and discover Hoi An's UNESCO-listed Ancient Town. In Ho Chi Minh City, explore Chinatown and historical sites, including the Cu Chi Tunnels. The adventure concludes with a grand Mekong Delta tour, offering opulence and cultural immersion.

One-Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi © Shutterstock

Day 1: Arrival and City Tour

Day 2: hanoi highlights.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• One-Pillar Pagoda
• Temple of Literature
• Hoan Kiem Lake

Day 3: Halong Bay Cruise

• Depart from Hanoi for Halong Bay
• Set sail in Halong Bay
• Explore limestone formations
• Visit Thien Cung Grotto

Day 4: Leisure Day

• Enjoy a free day for relaxation or optional activities in Halong Bay
• Depart Halong Bay for Hoi An
• Explore Hoi An's Ancient Town and surroundings

Days 8-10: 

• Depart Hoi An for Ho Chi Minh City
• Saigon City Tour
• Explore city highlights

Day 10: Mekong Delta

• Depart for the Mekong Delta
• Discover villages, markets, and historical sites on a speed boat tour  

Day 11: Departure

• Head to the airport for your departure flight from Ho Chi Minh City, concluding your journey

Mekong Delta in Vietnam © Shutterstock

If you're considering a Vietnam adventure with our Vietnam travel experts . We will craft a customizable itinerary that you can adjust to your liking . Say goodbye to the hassle of planning and booking.

Is your trip to Vietnam just around the corner? Prepare by reading our tips for traveling in Vietnam .

Travel advice for Vietnam

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Vietnam

• Crime and personal safety tips Vietnam
• Eating and drinking in Vietnam
• Getting around Vietnam: Transportation Tips
• How to get to Vietnam
• Travel Health Vietnam
• Shopping tips for Vietnam
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Vietnam
• Tips and travel advice for Vietnam
• Best time to visit Vietnam
• Vietnam Weather in September
• Vietnam Weather in November
• Vietnam Weather in June
• Vietnam Weather in July
• Vietnam Weather in December
• Vietnam Weather in August
• Vietnam Weather in January
• Vietnam Weather in February
• Vietnam weather in March
• How to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay
• How To Get From Hanoi To Da Nang
• How to get from Hanoi to Sapa
• Vietnam Weather in April
• How to get a Vietnam visa

Find even more inspiration for Vietnam here

Discover Vietnam's most captivating stories

written by Dre Roelandt

updated 14.05.2024

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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The Ultimate 1 Month Vietnam Itinerary And Travel Guide

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 29, 2024

Categories Vietnam

Vietnam is a wonderful country in Southeast Asia. There are lush rice fields in the North and tropical islands in the South.

In between, you can find anything from stunning limestone mountains to colorful temples, historic sites, and interesting cities.

This Vietnam itinerary includes the best things to do in Vietnam and will help you plan your trip. Happy travels!

The ultimate 1 month Vietnam itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Vietnam 1 month itinerary

In the map below you can find our Vietnam travel itinerary, accommodations, and highlights of our month in Vietnam.

I traveled from North to South but you can also do this Vietnam trip itinerary in reverse.

Click here for the interactive map.

The perfect 1 month Vietnam itinerary

Day 1-2: hanoi.

• Day 3-4 : Halong Bay
• Day 5: Perfume Pagoda
• Day 6-7:  Hoa Lu and Tam Coc
• Day 8-9:  Hue
• Day 10: Hai Van Pass and the Marble Mountains
• Day 11-17:  Hoi An
• Day 18-19: Hoi An to Dalat (via Nha Trang)
• Day 20-21: Dalat and around
• Day 22:  Dalat to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 23-25: Ho Chi Minh City and around

• Day 26:  Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc

Day 27-29: Phu Quoc Island

Plan your Southeast Asia trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Book your transport tickets (train, bus, ferry, minivan, and more) via 12Go.Asia ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours with Klook and Get Your Guide . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Important things to know when planning a Vietnam trip

The best time to visit Vietnam is between February and April . Vietnam is a long narrow country with different climates in the north and south. While the north can be ‘chilly' in winter (around 15°C), temperatures in the south are much more consistent throughout the year (between 22°C and 30°C).

The official currency in Vietnam is the  Vietnamese Dong (VND).   Here  you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 26.000VND and $1 is approximately 23.000VND.

Yes, most nationalities need a visa for Vietnam . You can apply for a visa online. Keep in mind you will need to pay two fees: online you will pay the Visa Pre-Approval Letter Fee and once you arrive at the airport you must pay a Stamping Fee (to be paid in cash, so be sure to bring dollars).

Traveling and getting around in Vietnam is pretty easy. There are many options to choose from (flights, night trains, night buses, minivans, taxis, motor tours, etc.) and plenty of travel agencies selling tickets to each of those options, as well as organized tours . In the itinerary below, you can find more detailed information about how to travel from A to B in Vietnam.

Where to stay in Vietnam on a budget

In this table, you can find the accommodation we stayed at during our trip around Vietnam.

These hotels are all rated 8+ on Agoda and Booking , we stayed in private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. More details about these hotels can be found further on in the post.

Note: Prices for these hotels depend on the time of year and how far in advance you book. Therefore, the prices mentioned above are a rough indication of the price per night to help you compare the different options. Use ‘click here' to see the latest prices and book ahead to get the best deal.

Itinerary for Vietnam

Ideally, if you have a month in Vietnam as we did, you’d travel from North to South (or vice versa). It's best to start your trip in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, as these are the largest hubs for international flights.

If you have less time available to explore Vietnam, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Further on in the post, I also suggest shorter options (7 and 10 days, plus 2 and 3 weeks) for your Vietnam travel itinerary.

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and a fusion of different cultures (Vietnamese, French, and Chinese).

It's a busy city, with many (historic) sights, a chaotic but interesting Old Quarter, beautiful temples, and an abundance of restaurants serving delicious Vietnamese dishes.

I recommend spending at least two days in Hanoi, though you could easily stay much longer in this buzzing city without running out of things to see and do.

Spend two days exploring Hanoi on foot, board a two-day cruise to Halong Bay , and join a tour of the Perfume Pagoda, or a day trip to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc .

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

I personally found visiting the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh very impressive, though also a little creepy.

I mean, the man died in 1969, and yet it looks like he is sleeping in his glass coffin and could wake up any minute.

Combined with an impressive number of guards, soldiers, and other officials and the endless line of Vietnamese honoring their great leader made visiting the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum a very unusual experience.

Visiting the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum is free, but there can be long queues. The mausoleum is only open from 7:30 am until 10:30 am, so it's best to arrive very early in the morning. Closed on Mondays and Fridays.

Ho Chi Minh Museum

While this museum is mostly a promotional campaign of the Communist Party of Vietnam, it's interesting to learn about history from this point of view.

However, I'll be honest: this wasn't the highlight of my Hanoi itinerary and if you only have one day in Hanoi, I'd skip this particular sight.

The entrance fee is 40.000VND per person and the museum is closed on Mondays and Fridays. On the other days of the week, you can visit from 8 am to12 pm or from 2 pm until 4.30 pm.

The Temple of Literature

This ancient temple was built around the year 1100 and nobles, royalty, and other members of the elite traveled from faraway places to study Confucianism here.

It's pretty incredible that the building is almost 1000 years old. Take a moment to look around and imagine how life must have been in those times.

The Temple of Literature is open every day of the week from 8 am until 6 pm. The entrance fee is 30.000VND per person.

Ngoc Son Temple

Located on a tiny island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake, it is hard to imagine a place more suited for a temple. It feels like an oasis of peacefulness in the middle of busy Hanoi.

The entrance fee is 30.000VND per person, there is a small booth left of the bridge where you can purchase a ticket. The Ngoc Son Temple is open every day of the week from 8 am until 6 pm.

Where to stay in Hanoi on a budget

Hanoi Serenity Hotel is a great place to stay in the middle of the Old Quarter. The rooms are spacious, clean, and modern.

Breakfast is good and included in the price. The staff is very welcoming and helpful.

Check prices on Agoda | Check prices on Booking

How to travel from Noi Bai International Airport to Hanoi city center

The easiest way, in my opinion, is taking the Vietjet airport shuttle bus.

This bus leaves every 1-2 hours and costs just 40.000 VND per adult. The price is clearly listed on the side of the bus, so you don't need to bargain.

The bus will stop next to Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can disembark and either walk or take a taxi to your accommodation (depending on where you are staying).

Travel tip: if you're exhausted from a long flight and want to get from Noi Bai International Airport to your hotel in Hanoi in a faster way, I recommend booking a private transfer . Your professional driver will be waiting with a personal welcome sign and deliver you safely to your Hanoi hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Click here to book your airport transfer .

Day 3-4: A two-day cruise in Halong Bay

Halong Bay is gorgeous, with its blue-green water and steep limestone cliffs rising high above the water, as far as your eyes can see.

It's one of the most popular places to visit in Vietnam and a UNESCO heritage site.

However, I have to admit that while the cruise was a lot of fun and we spent a lot of time chatting with the other travelers on the boat, I didn’t find Ha long Bay as impressive as I thought I would.

Perhaps my expectations were too high, or maybe I was spoilt because we had just visited El Nido in the Philippines , which to me is the ultimate tropical island paradise.

We also were a bit unlucky with the weather. On the first day of our cruise, it was extremely foggy and we barely saw anything of the famous cliffs.

Also, there were many other boats and a lot of trash floating in the water.

That being said, we enjoyed our cruise and I'm happy we went on this cruise. Halong Bay is a unique place to visit and should be part of any itinerary to Vietnam.

Important: cruising Halong Bay is a very popular activity in Vietnam. If you want to make sure you can travel on specific dates I strongly encourage you to book ahead.

Furthermore, I highly recommend booking with a reputable tour operator , I have heard horror stories from other travelers who ended up on a boat with huge rats.

Also check if meals and transport are included and if there are additional fees (for example, to enter Sung Sot Cave or to use a kayak).

This popular Halong Bay tour has great ratings from other travelers (4.8 stars out of 5).

Day 5: Day trip to the famous Perfume Pagoda

I really enjoyed our tour of the Perfume Pagoda because coincidentally we timed our visit perfectly. We did our tour of the Perfume Pagoda tour shortly after the Vietnamese New Year.

The week after the Vietnamese New Year, many Vietnamese people visit this particular pagoda and the Huong Tich cave to make an offering, which makes the tour extra interesting.

During this tour, our guide told us a lot about the complex combination of religions practiced in Vietnam (Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism).

To get to the Pagoda complex, we took a seat in a tiny boat rowed by a small but surprisingly strong Vietnamese man.

During this boat trip over the Yen Stream, we passed lots of boats jam-packed with Vietnamese families who were on their way to visit the pagoda as well.

They smiled enthusiastically, waved, and took pictures of us and it made for an amusing boat trip. Click here to book a tour to the Perfume Pagoda .

Day 6: Day trip to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc

This was the last of the three tours I did around Hanoi and my favorite one as well.

First, we visited Hoa Lu, which was the capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1009 during the rule of the Dinh Dynasty.

While this historic site was definitely interesting to visit, the highlight of the tour is Tam Coc. The area around Tam Coc is absolutely stunning, it's kind of similar to Halong Bay but with rice fields instead of water.

There are massive limestone cliffs soaring high above bright green rice fields, a beautiful sight!

We made a lovely boat trip along the Hoang Long River (the lady rowing the boat rowed with her feet!) and passed through an impressive case.

While this is a very worthwhile tour, please note that the bus ride from Hanoi to Tam Coc takes at least two hours (depending on traffic).

We opted not to go back to Hanoi, instead, we spent the night at Tam Coc as we planned to travel south.

Check out this excellent Hoa Lu and Tam Coc tour for more detailed information and book your ticket online .

Where to stay in Tam Coc on a budget

Tuan Ngoc Hotel is a small-scale hotel in Tam Coc and one of the best accommodations we stayed at during our one-month Vietnam trip.

The family who runs the hotel is incredibly friendly and really makes you feel at home. The rooms are clean, the bed is very comfortable and the Wi-Fi was good.

All the food was delicious and freshly prepared. A highly recommended place to stay!

Day 7-8: explore Tam Coc and travel to Hue by night train

I was very happy we got to spend another day admiring the beautiful surroundings of Tam Coc. We rented a bicycle and cycled over sandy roads between the rice fields.

We often rent bicycles during our travels and I always very much enjoy this.

Not only is it an eco-friendly way of exploring a place, but it's also healthy and allows for plenty of opportunities to make a quick stop to take a picture.

How to travel from Ninh Binh to Hue by night train

From Tuan Ngoc Hotel it's a 15-minute taxi ride to Ninh Binh station (we paid 100.000 VND). About 15 minutes before the train arrives, a bell will chime and railway employees will check your tickets.

Usually, they will guide you to the right spot on the platform, so you can board the cabin listed on your train tickets ticket.

I enjoyed our train trips in Vietnam. The 4 people soft sleeper cabins are pretty comfortable and I usually got a decent night's sleep. For more information about train travel in Vietnam, check seat61.com .

My most important tip for train travel in Vietnam is to book your train tickets online , at least a couple of days in advance! Beds sell out fast, particularly the soft sleepers.

Click here to book your train tickets via 12Go.

Day 8-9: Hue and around

I spent two lovely days in Hue, the capital of the Nguyễn emperors.

On our first day in Hue, we visited the Imperial City and on the second day, we rented a bicycle and cycled along the Perfume River.

The Imperial City

Hue was the capital of the Nguyễn emperors, who build the Citadel between 1804 and 1833.

Within the 2.5 by 2.5km and 6-meter high wall of the Citadel, the emperors build the Imperial Enclosure and within this enclosure, they build the Forbidden Purple City; a place only the emperor, his concubines, and eunuchs were allowed to enter.

Unfortunately, much of the complex has been destroyed during the Vietnam War, but with help from UNESCO, it is being restored.

The Imperial City is a very impressive complex, with beautiful temples and gardens and a must-visit during any Hue itinerary.

The complex is very green and quiet, it felt like we were the only ones there! Be sure to bring enough water along, it can get quite hot during the day.

The entrance fee to the Imperial City in Hue is 150.000 VND per person. The complex is open daily from 8 am until 5:30 pm (10 pm on Thursday evenings!)

Rent a bicycle

On our second day in Hue, we rented bicycles from our hotel and explored the area around Hue.

Thien Mu Pagoda

We visited the seven-story tall Thien Mu Pagoda, which is often regarded as the symbol of Hue. Found on the northern bank of the Perfume River, the Pagoda is an easy 5-kilometer bike ride from Hue city center.

Keep in mind there are monks living at the site so be sure to dress and behave respectfully.

Chùa Huyền Không temple

Another nice place to visit is the Chùa Huyền Không temple. This unknown temple is beautiful and highly worth a visit. It was built in 1973, around the temple there are lovely gardens and small lilyponds.

From the Thien Mu Pagoda, it's another 3km by bike to reach the Huyen Khong temple.

Other things to do in Hue

If you have more time to spend in Hue, other worthwhile activities are a day trip to Bach Ma National Park , the Tomb of Minh Mang, or the Tomb of Tu Duc.

? Only got a day to explore Hue? Check out this full-day private tour and visit the most significant and popular sights in Hue, (and learn more about the city's interesting history ) . Check availability here .

Where to stay in Hue on a budget

We received such a warm welcome at the Charming Riverside hotel . A cold towel, fresh fruit, juice, and information about Hue and the places of interest in the city.

There are different room options and some even have a river view! Bicycle rental for $2 a day. Breakfast is excellent and the staff is very helpful and accommodating.

Day 10: how to travel from Hue to Hoi An (by minivan)

The distance between Hue and Hoi An is only 150km and shouldn't take more than three hours without stopping along the way. However, that was not what happened during our trip from Hue to Hoi An…

The day before we departed, I asked the hotel how to get from Hue to Hoi An. No problem, they exclaimed, we have a minivan that can take you there for $15 per person.

I booked two tickets and we were picked up by an empty minivan the next morning. But as always in Southeast Asia, that quickly changed, and more and more people piled into the van.

After driving for about half an hour, the driver's phone went off, he had a short chat and pulled over. When one of the passengers asked why we had stopped the driver cheerfully said that more people were coming.

Apparently, they had forgotten to pick up two people in Hue, who were now on their way to our location in a cab. We patiently waited for a while until the missing passengers arrived and resumed our journey.

A friendly Vietnamese guy started talking about the surroundings, and the villages we passed and shared some historical facts.

Interesting, I thought, but why exactly is he telling this stuff? It turned out he was our guide.

Yes, apparently, I did not just book a transfer from Hue to Hoi An, I booked a tour!

Hai Van Pass

Along the way from Hue to Hoi An, we stopped at Hai Van Pass, a 600-meter high pass that gained instant fame when Jeremy Clarkson declared it ‘ A deserted ribbon of perfection ’ in the Vietnam special of Top Gear.

Beautiful? Definitely!

Deserted? Not so much.

The Marble Mountains

We also stopped at the Marble Mountains, which turned out to be an interesting place to visit.

There were many caves and Buddha statues, each of them slightly different. I didn’t know the difference between the different poses and types of Buddha statues but learned a lot during our visit to the Marble Mountains (see pictures above).

The entrance fee to the Marble Mountains is 40.000VND per person. The complex is open every day of the week from 7 am to 5:30 pm.

Final destination: Hoi An

Eventually, we arrived in Hoi An around 5 pm, after a great day of sightseeing. The tour reconfirmed my earlier lessons and my advice to you: when in Southeast Asia, always expect the unexpected:-)

For my husband and myself, it wasn't an issue that the trip had taken an entire day as we were planning to stay in Hoi An for at least a couple of days.

However, some of the passengers would be traveling back to Hue the next day, which unfortunately meant their day of sightseeing in Hoi An was cut short…

Day 11-17: exploring and relaxing in Hoi An

While we planned to spend three days in Hoi An , we ended up spending an entire week! Hoi An is a lovely town, with great food and a very relaxed vibe.

When darkness falls, Hoi An feels like a fairy tale village, lit by thousands of colorful lanterns.

Hoi An Old Town

Hoi An Old Town is a UNESCO world heritage site, with many beautiful historic buildings.

To visit these historic buildings, you need to buy a Hoi An Old Town admission ticket at one of the ticket booths spread around town.

The ticket gives you entrance to five historic buildings. There are 22 sights listed on the heritage map (you'll get one of these when purchasing the ticket) so choose carefully.

On the ticket, it says that it is valid for 24 hours only, but we used the same ticket on Monday and Wednesday without any issues. Some of the most popular sites to visit are:

• The Fujian Assembly Hall (also called Phuoc Kien)
• The Japanese Covered Bridge
• Duc An Old House
• Cam Pho Communal House
• Hoi An Museum

? Got more time to spend in Hoi An? Book this Hoi An bicycle tour and ride through the scenic countryside of Vietnam as you learn about the local way of life and enjoy a delicious lunch. Check availability here .

Have a massage

Something to add to your Hoi An itinerary is getting a massage. In Hoi An, there are many different spas, suitable for every budget.

I had a very relaxing massage at the Kiman hotel , which cost around 300.000 VND and took about an hour.

Get a custom-made dress

If you are looking to get a custom-made dress, suit, or other garments, Hoi An is the place to buy this. I had a beautiful dress made for my sister's wedding that I still wear.

Take a cooking class

During our week in Hoi An, we also took a cooking class . Before the actual cooking started, the instructors took us to the local market to buy the ingredients we were going to use in the dishes.

We learned to make fresh spring rolls and sauteed chicken. I love Vietnamese food and it tasted even better when we prepared it ourselves. Check the availability of the cooking class here.

Hang out at one of the many cafes

One of the best things about Hoi An was relaxing in one of the many cafes! I am a bit of a coffee addict and our favorite place in Hoi An was 11 Coffee.

Phap, the owner of 11 Coffee, is a great guy and a real coffee enthusiast. I can highly recommend visiting his cute cafe, we went there almost every day during our time in Hoi An.

Join a day trip to My Son

One of the most important historic sites near Hoi An is the UNESCO World Heritage site My Son Sanctuary . Learn about the Champa Kingdom and explore the ruins of this former capital.

Click here to book a tour to My Son Sanctuary.

Where to stay in Hoi An on a budget

Option 1: jolie villa homestay.

Our first hotel in Hoi An was Jolie Villa Homestay . We stayed in a spacious room with a huge comfortable bed.

The bathroom was large, clean, and modern. Also, the shower was high enough for tall people such as my husband, which is rare in Vietnam!

Wi-Fi was good (each room has its own router) and there are free bicycles available. You can also freely use the swimming pool at the Kiman hotel , which is also run by this lovely family).

But first and foremost, the host family is awesome, super-friendly, and helpful. They know each guest by name from the moment you arrive and make you feel very welcome. We had an excellent stay here!

Option 2: Sac Xanh homestay

Because all the rooms at Jolie Villa were booked and we wanted to stay in Hoi An for a couple more days, we looked for another hotel and found Sac Xanh homestay .

This was another great budget hotel and we had such a lovely stay with this family. The rooms are basic but spotlessly clean, the bed (with mosquito net) is super comfortable and there are free bicycles available.

The best thing about this homestay was the host family who was very friendly, welcoming, and helpful throughout our stay.

They arranged transport for us to Da Nang train station and helped us make a reservation for bus tickets from Nha Trang to Dalat.

Also, they made us a delicious Vietnamese breakfast each morning. On the day of our departure, the family organized a special going away lunch and the food was among the best we had in Vietnam.

Day 18-19: how to travel from Hoi An to Dalat (via Nha Trang)

After a relaxing week in Hoi An, it was time to move on. The next destination on our Vietnam tour itinerary was Dalat. In the table above you can find more details about our journey from Hoi An to Dalat.

Even though it was a 24-hour journey, it didn't feel that long because we had a good night of sleep aboard the overnight train and the road from Nha Trang to Dalat was breathtaking.

Click here to book your train tickets from Danang to Nha Trang and bus tickets from Nha Trang to Dalat

Day 20-21: Dalat

We rented two mountain bikes from our accommodation, Cam Ly homestay , to explore Da lat and its surroundings. Dalat is located in the mountains and there are many fun things to see and do.

Ho Xuan Huong Lake

On our first day in Dalat, we cycled around Ho Xuan Huong Lake, located in the heart of Dalat.

The Crazy House

Southwest of the lake you can find the Crazy House, a maze of stairs, and hidden passages in a Gaudi meets fairytale style.

The entrance fee for the Crazy House is 60.000VND per person. It's open every day of the week, from 8.30 am to 7 pm.

Did you know? Besides visiting the Crazy House, you can actually spend the night in one of the 10 unique themed rooms!

We wandered around the Crazy House for about an hour, before cycling to the train station of Dalat.

A train ride from Dalat to Trai Mat

At the pretty Dalat railway station, we got on a beautifully restored train, which brought us to Trai Mat, a little village about 7km away.

In the table below you can find the departure times, the ride from Dalat to Trai Mat (and vice versa) takes approximately 30 minutes.

A return train ticket from Dalat to Trai Mat costs 126.000VND per person

Linh Phuoc temple (Trai Mat)

In Trai Mat, we visited the unique Linh Phuoc temple. The main feature of the temple is the 7-meter high and 49-meter long dragon, which is made of 12.000 bottles!

After our visit to Trai Mat, we returned to Dalat on the historic train and cycled back to our homestay.

Datanla Falls

On our second day in Dalat, we cycled to the Datanla Falls (approximately 6km from town), a nice place to visit. The entrance fee to the Datanla Waterfalls is 30.000VND per person.

? Looking for an adventure? Go on an epic canyoning adventure at the Datanla Waterfalls! Check availability here .

Dalat Truc Lam Zen Monastery

We continued our Dalat itinerary and cycled to the Truc Lam Zen Monastery, located on top of a mountain. This serene complex has lovely gardens and beautiful buildings.

The Truc Lam Zen complex is a lovely place to relax and contemplate all the beautiful things you have seen so far on your trip to Vietnam.

Luckily the way back from the Truc Lam Zen Pagoda to Dalat was mostly downhill, we were pretty tired from climbing all the steep mountains!

? Take the Robin Hill Cable Car and enjoy more panoramic view of Dalat. Click here to buy cable car tickets .

Where to stay in Dalat on a budget

Our stay at Cam Ly Homestay in Dalat was lovely! When we arrived Tri, the owner, welcomed us by name and showed us to our room.

The room was spacious and light, with a comfortable bed (with mosquito net). It had a nice view of the Cam Ly stream and a small balcony.

I highly recommend joining one of the BBQ evenings; there is great food (homemade spring rolls!), and cheap beers and it's a great way to meet other travelers and exchange stories.

Day 22: Dalat to Ho Chi Minh City 

Tri, the kind owner of Cam Ly homestay , called the airport shuttle bus the day before our departure and the next morning the shuttle bus picked us up from the homestay (only 15 minutes late, which in Southeast Asia is considered right on time;-).

Liên Khương Airport is located about 30 km south of Dalat, so it wasn't a long bus ride and we arrived at the airport with plenty of time to check in.

The flight from Dalat to Ho Chi Minh was also very short, just 50 minutes. From Ho Chi Minh airport we took bus 152 to the city center.

On the bus, we had to buy one ticket for ourselves and one for our big backpacks.

Granted, these took up just as much space as the average Vietnamese person. And when a ticket costs a mere 5000 VND you can't really complain anyway.

Click here to book a flight to Ho Chi Minh

The word that immediately comes to mind when I think about Ho Chi Minh City is organized chaos.

The rule when crossing the street isn’t ‘ Walk when the traffic light is green ’ but ‘Don’t mind the color of the traffic light, just cross slowly but surely and maintain eye contact all the time’ . 

Whatever you do: don’t stop!

It still amazes me that I have only seen one traffic incident in my month in Vietnam, so despite the chaos, it all seems to work out pretty well.

There are many things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, as well as in the surrounding area.

I really wanted to visit the Independence Palace (pictured above), the home and office of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

Unfortunately, it was closed during our visit, but it's usually open daily from 8 am to 4 pm.

We also visited the Mariamman Hindu temple , the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Saigon Central Post Office (pictured below).

The post office was definitely my favorite building, I loved the symmetry on the inside of this beautiful place.

Other places we visited in Ho Chi Minh were the War Remnant Museum and the Cu Chi tunnels (about 40 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City).

Visit the War Remnant Museum

When you are in Vietnam, you’ll inevitably come across some vivid reminders of the Vietnam War such as disabled people and bombed buildings.

If you are in Ho Chi Minh City, a visit to the War Remnants Museum is a must. This impressive museum tells a terrible story. It's not a place to visit with young children, as the stories and pictures are truly horrible.

There are disturbing images of entire villages being massacred, pictures of prisoners being tortured, and photos of napalm victims.

Altogether, visiting the War Remnants Museum is extremely depressing. However, when you are in Ho Chi Minh City, you must visit this place and learn about the Vietnam War and what war does to people.

There are no winners in war, only pain, and loss…

The entrance fee is 40.000VND per person and the museum is open daily from 7:30 am until 6 pm.

Take a tour of the Cu Chi tunnels

We took a tour of the Cu Chi tunnels , another vivid reminder of the Vietnam War.

This 200km network of extremely cramped underground tunnels was constructed and used by the Vietcong during the war to fight the Americans with a guerrilla tactic.

When we descended into the tunnels, which have already been widened for tourists, I almost panicked (I am a little claustrophobic) and went back up.

But I felt that, if people lived there for almost 10 years, I should be able to crawl a mere 100 meters through the cramped, hot, dark tunnel with little fresh oxygen.

I was so relieved when I got out and so impressed by the tenacity of the people who had called these tunnels home for years…

Click here for more information about the Cu Chi tunnels tour .

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City on a budget

Our stay at Thao Nhi Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City was good. We got a free upgrade to a bigger room and the hotel is run by very friendly staff.

The hotel serves delicious and affordable food and is located close to all the sights (in a small street just off the main backpacker street).

Day 26: Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc (by plane)

While it was a long day, it was an easy travel day. We took the local bus (#152) back to the airport, where we had to wait for a couple of hours as our flight was delayed.

Luckily, the flight from Ho Chi Minh to Phu Quoc island was only one hour and there was a taxi waiting for us upon arrival.

The airport is located in the middle of nowhere and arranging a taxi via your accommodation before arrival is recommended, particularly when you are arriving late in the evening.

Click here to book a flight to Phu Quoc

We spent three days in Phu Quoc , which was the perfect way to end our Vietnam travel route. On Phu Quoc, we rented a scooter for a couple of days and explored the beautiful island.

If you plan to travel to Phu Quoc during peak season (December-March), I recommend booking a scooter in advance to make sure there's one available for your trip.

Where to stay in Phu Quoc on a budget

Fortuna Hotel was another lovely place to stay. The rooms are lovingly decorated and spotlessly clean, with private bathrooms.

From the hotel, it's a 20-minute drive to Duong Dong, the main town in Phu Quoc. Not a problem if you rent a scooter but something to keep in mind when booking this hotel.

Alternative Vietnam itineraries (7 and 10 days + 2 and 3 weeks)

Vietnam itinerary 7 days.

If you just have 1 week in Vietnam, don’t worry! While you cannot see everything the country has to offer, you can get a taste and feel of the country.

Here is my suggestion for a 1 week Vietnam itinerary:

• Day 1-2:  Explore Hanoi and eat your way around this lively cit y
• Day 3:  Make a day trip from Hanoi (such as the Perfume Pagoda, or Hao Lu and Tam Coc )
• Day 3:  Take a flight to Danang and travel to Hoi An
• Day 4-5:  Explore Hoi An
• Day 6: Make a trip to My Son or a bicycle tour around Hoi An
• Day 7: Fly home from Danang

Vietnam itinerary 10 days

This 10-day Vietnam itinerary includes buzzing Hanoi, the imperial city Hue, and fairytale town Hoi An, but also the two most beautiful natural sights: Halong Bay and Tam Coc.

• Day 1:  Explore Hanoi and eat delicious street food
• Day 2-3: Make a cruise in Halong Bay
• Day 4:  Hanoi + take a night train to Hue
• Day 5-6:  Explore Hue + transfer to Hoi An on day 6
• Day 7-8:  Visit the historic buildings in Hoi An
• Day 9: Make a trip to My Son
• Day 10: Fly home from Danang

Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks

If you have 2 weeks in Vietnam, I’d recommend traveling either from North to South or vice versa. Your 2 week Vietnam itinerary could look like this:

• Day 1-2:  Explore Hanoi and sample some excellent street food
• Day 3: Make a day trip to Tam Coc
• Day 5-6:  Hue + transfer to Hoi An on day 6
• Day 7-8:  Explore the historic buildings in Hoi An
• Day 9: Make a trip to My Son or explore the countryside around Hoi An by bike
• Day 10: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City from Danang
• Day 11-12: Ho Chi Minh and a trip to the Cu Chu tunnels
• Day 12-14: Phu Quoc island

This itinerary for Vietnam in 2 weeks is especially suitable for people looking to travel in one direction instead of a loop.

Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks

With this 3 weeks Vietnam itinerary, you get to experience very different sides of Vietnam. You'll explore several interesting cities, spend a night in Halong Bay, and get to relax in tropical Phu Quoc.

For this 3 week Vietnam itinerary, I suggest the following route:

• Day 1-2: Eat your way around Hanoi
• Day 3-4 : Make a cruise in Halong Bay
• Day 5: Day tour to the Perfume Pagoda
• Day 6-7: Day trip to the  Hoa Lu and Tam Coc
• Day 11-13:  Explore Hoi An Old Town
• Day 14: Make a day trip to My Son
• Day 15: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City from Danang
• Day 16-17: Ho Chi Minh and a trip to the Cu Chu tunnels
• Day 18-21: Explore Phu Quoc island

The best Vietnam itinerary: in conclusion

I hope this Vietnam travel guide and sample itineraries will inspire you to visit Vietnam and help you plan your trip.

If you have any questions, leave a comment below or send me a message . Also read these posts for more Vietnam travel inspiration:

• 10 interesting facts about Vietnam
• 50 unique things to do in Vietnam
• Authentic things to do in Hanoi
• Backpacking Guide to Vietnam
• Hang Son Doong: the world’s largest cave
• Planning a trip to Vietnam
• Sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh city
• The best Halong Bay cruises
• Things to do in Hoi An
• Things to do in Phong Nha
• Things to know before traveling by night train in Vietnam

This post was updated in November 2022.

Tuesday 20th of December 2022

Thank you for this. Very informative and quite helpful.

Wednesday 21st of December 2022

Thanks so much Kevin for letting me know:-) Have a great trip to Vietnam en let me know if there's anything you need help with! Lotte

Friday 18th of November 2016

I love that you spend a week in Hoi An LOL :) I did the same! Hoi An is such a cute place with nice food and things to see plus an amazing beach! Phu Quoc island looks wonderful, i had no time for that, maybe some other time? x

Haha Hoi An is so relaxing, I loved the vibe... Phu Quoc was definitely nice, I'm curious to see how the island has developed in the past 2 years. There was talk of direct flights from Russia and China so it might be very different now.

Tuesday 10th of May 2016

Great post, I love that you documented the prices too. We're going to Vietnam in two weeks and we haven't chosen our full itinerary yet so your article is a great inspiration!

Hey Laure, thanks so much for your comment! I am happy to hear my post gave you inspiration for your upcoming trip and helped you plan. Have an amazing journey through Vietnam, I am sure you'll have a great time:-)

Friday 5th of February 2016

A Dutch friend of ours actually moved to Vietnam a couple of years ago and we are invited to come over, however we still haven't made it. We really should, one day...

Awesome! It's always really cool to be shown around by somebody who actually lives there and who can take you to off the beaten track places!

Wednesday 3rd of February 2016

Ik zou het geweldig vinden om Vietnam te bezoeken. Ik zou dan een reis maken en alle overblijfselen en memorials van de Vietnam oorlog bezoeken, maar natuurlijk ook de prachtige natuur en stadjes! Als ik deze foto's zie, wil ik alleen nog maar meer gaan! Grappig he, dat je beleving van temperatuur zo veel anders kan zijn dan de personen die daar wonen. Gaan wij in de winter naar Marokko bv. dan doen wij luchtige kleding aan, terwijl zij helemaal ingepakt zijn. Kom je van de Fillipijnen af, bevries je weer zowat in Vietnam. Zo te zien heeft het je reisplezier niet nadelig beinvloed!

Vietnam is ook zeker qua historie een bijzonder land om te bezoeken... Ik vond het Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum heel bijzonder net als de Cu Chi tunnels en het War Remnant Museum. En reizen is eigenlijk bij alle temperature leuk, zolang het maar droog is;-)

Travel blog

10 Days in Vietnam: Itinerary Options for Every Traveller

While we're not  supposed  to have favourites, when it comes to countries in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is pretty high on our list. Boasting taste bud-tingling cuisine, uber-friendly locals, untouched villages, natural adventure and breathtaking scenery, it truly has something for every traveller.

Published 6 December 2023

Abbie Taylor

Long story short, if you're writing a bucket list for Southeast Asia , make sure Vietnam is at the top.

The thing with Vietnam is that it is a long country with vast experiences on offer between north and south. You could easily spend six months traversing the country, uncovering the hidden gems and immersing yourself in bustling streets along the way.

Unfortunately, most of us have to work, which means six months looks more like two weeks leave (give or take a few days). With this in mind, we recommend a 10-day itinerary for first-timers visiting Vietnam.

Is ten days enough in Vietnam? Yes and no. Just under two weeks is still plenty of time for you to embark on city tours and urban adventures, sampling fragrant pho and tasting banh mi from north to south. It's the perfect amount of time to get a taste of this magnificent country, explore Vietnam's culture and ignite a spark that will no doubt have you dreaming about your next amazing trip.

Why Visit Vietnam?

The best ways to explore vietnam, must try vietnamese cuisine, vietnam itinerary - 10 days for every traveller, 10-day vietnam itinerary option 1 - classic vietnam, 10-day vietnam itinerary option 2 - including central vietnam.

10-Day Vietnam Itinerary Option 3 - Slow Down And Relax

Must-See Cities During Your Vietnam Trip

Tailor Your Travels With These Popular Attractions

Travel Tips for Anyone Visiting Vietnam

Ready to book your Vietnamese escape?

A gem of South East Asia, Vietnam is a safe, affordable and experience-rich country suitable for travellers of all ages and abilities. Bursting with untouched local villages, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and fresh, fragrant local food that will blow your socks off, Vietnam is the perfect place to experience a world that seamlessly blends ancient towns with cosmopolitan cities.

Travelling with kids? No stress, Vietnam is a great family holiday location, with ample opportunities for your little ones to learn, get back to nature and understand a simpler way of life. Backpacking? Not only is Vietnam super easy to travel through, but it is cheap. Like $1 beers cheap.

Adventure seeker? How does hiking through rice paddies and exploring the biggest cave in the world sound? Shopaholics, just wait until you read about Hoi An.

What about those who prefer the finer things in life? With luxury cruises and 5-star experiences on offer throughout the country, there is no shortage of opulence to keep you satisfied.

Whether it's your first or 50th time to Vietnam, here are a few tried and tested ways to see the country.

Join a group tour. A broad network of providers offer a variety of tours based on your age, interests and budget. Whether you're a solo traveller nervous to explore on your own, are seeking adventure or simply want to taste everything, speak to our travel experts about options best suited to your travel style. As a general rule of thumb, we recommend smaller group tours that give back to the community and focus on sustainable travel practices.

Rent a motorbike. If you have the skills, experience, confidence and travel insurance, then a motorbike is an ideal way to travel the length of Vietnam. Not only will you fit in with the locals, but a motorbike gives you the freedom to travel when and where you please.

Backpacking. Travelling on a budget as part of a broader Asian adventure? Grab your backpack and take advantage of the bevy of trains, buses, cheap flights and car transfers on offer throughout the country.

Cruising . Feel like the world is best seen from the water? There are a wide range of river and ocean cruises that visit the shores of Vietnam. Popular options include junk boat cruises on Halong Bay and a single or multi-day river cruise down the Mekong Delta.

Custom itineraries and holiday packages. Want to curate your own itinerary with the help of an expert? Contact the team at Flight Centre and work with one of our Vietnam experts to create a Vietnam holiday package that works for you.

Covering Vietnam flights , accommodation, insurance, transfers, day tours and more, we will happily sort out the nitty gritty while you focus on the more important things (like researching where to find the best banh mi).

RELATED:  The Best Ways to See Asia: From Cruising to Backpacking and More

We can almost guarantee that one of the main highlights of your trip to Vietnam will undoubtedly be the cuisine. Think fresh, fragrant dishes, favouring flavours like fish sauce, lemongrass, ginger, chilli, soy and coriander. The French influence also means there is no shortage of soft bread and delicious pastries.

Here's a hitlist to get you started:

Pho - brothy noodle soup

Bánh Mì - Vietnamese sandwiches

Bánh Xèo - Vietnamese pancakes

Com Ga - chicken and rice

Bun Cha - charcoal pork, noodles and herbs

Egg Coffee - a Hanoi speciality

Coconut coffee

Condensed milk coffee

Rice paper rolls

Cao Lầu (only served in Hoi An)

Feeling brave? Order balut, an Asian delicacy that is popular during Lunar New Year. Two words: duck embryo.

Ready to start planning your trip? We've compiled three different itineraries that span 10 days in Vietnam. Feel free to use these as a guide, chopping and changing to suit your holiday style and travel goals.

Note: All of these options start in Ho Chi Minh City (formally known as Saigon) in Southern Vietnam and head north up to Hanoi. They can all easily be flipped and completed in reverse if you'd prefer to head from north to south.

Day 1-  Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City Day 2 - Free day in Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta or Cu Chi Tunnels Day 3 - Fly Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An Day 4 - Free day in Hoi An Day 5 - Travel Hoi An to Hue (option to add Hai Van Pass) Day 6 - Fly Hue to Hanoi Day 7 - Transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay or Sapa Day 8 - Cruise through Halong Bay or trek Sapa Day 9 - Transfer from Halong Bay or Sapa to Hanoi Day 10 - Depart Hanoi

Day 1-  Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City Day 2 - Free day in Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta or Cu Chi Tunnels Day 3 - Fly Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An Day 4 - Free day in Hoi An Day 5 - Travel Hoi An to Hue (option to add Hai Van Pass) Day 6 - Morning transfer from Hue to Phong Nha Day 7 - Overnight train from Phong Nha to Ninh Binh Day 8 - Free day in Ninh Binh & Tam Coc Day 9 - Transfer from Ninh Binh to Hanoi Day 10 - Depart Hanoi

10-Day Vietnam Itinerary Option 3 - Slow Down And Relax 

Day 1-  Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City Day 2 - Free day in Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta or Cu Chi Tunnels Day 3 - Fly Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc Island Day 4 - Free day on Phu Quoc Island Day 5 - Fly Phu Quoc to Hoi An Day 6 - Free day in Hoi An Day 7 - Fly Hoi An to Hanoi Day 8 - Transfer Hanoi to Halong Bay  Day 9 - Halong Bay cruise Day 10 - Depart Hanoi

No trip to Vietnam is complete without a stop at these iconic cities and cultural hubs.

Ho Chi Minh City

A bustling city steeped in French and Asian influences, Ho Chi Minh City is worthy of a few days in your Vietnamese itinerary. Allow yourself plenty of time to stroll past French Colonial architecture, sample street food, explore hidden alleyways and learn more about wartime history.

Where : Southern Vietnam Places to see : The War Remnants Museum, Cu Chi Tunnels, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central post office, Ben Thanh Market, Mekong Delta Day Tour. Best place to stay : District 1  

Day tour options:

Learn more about the Vietnam War with a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, Reunification Palace & War Remnants museum

Wise up on street food with a tasty tour through each district

Take a Mekong Delta tour to experience village life, taste traditional food, soak up the scenery and snap pics of traditional pagodas.

Hoi An & Da Nang

If there is one city you visit in Vietnam, make it Hoi An. A destination all in itself, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that oozes charm with colourful buildings, lantern-lit alleys, lovely cafes and delicious cuisine. Serving as a mecca for history buffs and shopaholics alike, Hoi An is also close to popular beachside hangs.

Note: when visiting Hoi An, you'll need to fly into Da Nang and take a short car transfer. Da Nang is a major trading port in Vietnam, and while it is popular among local tourists, we recommend spending no more than a few hours there. Trust us, Hoi An is worth more of your time.

Where: Central Vietnam Places to see : Ancient Town, Japanese covered bridge, Hoi An Night Market, An Bang Beach, Chua Cau, My Son temple complex & Marble Mountains (day tour). Best place to stay: Cam Pho, Ancient Town, An Hoi or An Bang Beach.  

Top things to do:

Shop 'till you drop. Hoi An is renowned for having world-class tailors that will quickly make custom outfits, suits, dresses and more. There is no shortage of tailors available, so do your research and be sure to shop around. You can also find custom-made leather goods like boots, sandals, handbags and belts, and knock-off sporting apparel.

Take a lantern boat ride at night. We know it looks busy, but it's popular for a reason.

Join a cooking class. Most classes in Hoi An will include a visit to local markets, a ride through palm trees in a traditional basket boat, and a chance to cook a number of traditional dishes.

Snorkel Cham Island. Need to cool off? Join a boat tour out to Cham Island and snorkel amongst the coral and marine life.

Tip: Getting clothes made? Stay at least two nights and visit the tailor on your first day. That way, there is plenty of time for them to make the garments and perform any alterations.

Rich in history and home to the Imperial City, Hue is the old capital city of Vietnam. Serving as a home to Vietnamese empowers, this river city is a great stop during your travels.

Where: Central Vietnam Places to see : Thien Mu Pagoda, Mausoleum to the Emperors, Perfume River, Dong Ba Market. Best place to stay: Phu Hoi & City Centre  

Visit the UNESCO-listed ancient citadel.

Take a dragon boat trip along the Perfume River.

Visit Bach Ma National Park.

Known for its centuries-old architecture and mix of Southeast Asian, Chinese and French culture, Vietnam's capital of Hanoi is a sensory explosion. At it's heart, you'll find the bustling Old Quarter.

Serving as a meeting point for locals and tourists alike, the Hanoi Old Quarter wraps around the Hoan Kiem Lake and offers winding streets filled with cafes and shopping delights.

Hanoi day trips are also a fantastic way to see more of what Northern Vietnam has to offer.

Where: Northern Vietnam Places to see : Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ngoc Son Pagoda, Vietnam Military History Museum, Halong Bay (day tour), Ninh Binh (day tour) Best place to stay: Old Quarter & Hoan Kiem District  

Explore the Old Quarter, filling your suitcase with bargains.

Join a Hanoi city tour to get your bearings and learn more about it's unique history.

Enjoy the coffee culture. Hanoi is the home of egg coffee, after all.

Visit the iconic Train Street. Keep in mind that this area is quite strict. Your best bet to dine trackside is to contact any of the restaurants directly, and they will escort you in.

Taste your way through the city with a street food tour.

Watch a traditional water puppet show.

Vietnam Itinerary - 10 Days: Tailor Your Travels With These Popular Attractions

With the bones of your trip sorted, consider sprinkling your itinerary with these destinations and experiences to make the most of your time in Vietnam.

Hai Van Pass

Nestled between Hoi An and Hue, the Pass was made popular by Top Gear. This winding mountain road is best seen on the back of a bike and serves as a scenic transfer route between north and south.

Perfect for: travellers keen to ride past breathtaking scenery on the back of a motorbike.  

Travel notes:

If transferring between Hoi An and Hue, you can expect a 5-6 hour journey that also visits the Marble Mountains, fishing villages and a pearl farm.

If you don't wish to do a full day trip, you can easily do it as a day trip from Hoi An or Da Nang

If riding, ensure you book through a trusted, experienced and insured tour operator.

Ha Long Bay

Unless you've been living under a rock, it's likely you're aware of the picturesque haven that is Halong Bay. Home to limestone karsts, pristine beaches and calm waters, a Ha Long Bay cruise is a must for any traveller.

Perfect for: anyone keen to float amongst emerald water and limestone cliffs from the comfort of a cruise.  

Choose from a day trip, one-night or two-night cruise with transfers from Hanoi

There are a range of boat options, from the budget-conscious to 5-star luxury

Most cruises will include kayaking, squid fishing, cooking demonstrations, all meals, a visit to a local floating market and village and plenty of scenic cruising.

Longer cruises may even include a visit to Cat Ba Island

Tip: Look for an overnight cruise that also visits the less crowded and equally beautiful little sister of Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay.

Hiking on your mind? Head to the lush rice terraces and remote mountain villages of Sapa for some peace and quiet among the serene beauty of Northern Vietnam.

Perfect for: travellers keen to hike amongst the rice paddies and experience life in the mountains.  

There are a range of tour options available for varying trip lengths and traveller abilities

Most tours will include a transfer from Hanoi via bus or an overnight train, plus all trekking, accommodation and food.

Sapa's high altitude will provide a welcome relief from the heat. However, this means it can get pretty chilly in winter.

Stay in a homestay for the best chance to meet locals and learn about village life.

If you're keen to see the rice paddies at their best, opt to visit between May and September when the terraces are filled with water and the plants are lush and green.

Adventure seekers and nature lovers alike will love Phong Nha. Nestled into the Ke Bang National Park protected area in North-Central Vietnam, Phong Nha is home to lush mountains, tropical forests, underground rivers and a vast network of caves.

Despite being one of the country's top adventure destinations and home to the biggest cave in the world, Phong Nha is still relatively untouched, so now is the perfect time to visit.

Perfect for : travellers seeking adventure and untouched beauty.  

Book a homestay along the river or amongst the rice fields.

If you're keen on caving, visit outside of the wet seasons, as most caves are inaccessible between October and December.

Visiting the world's biggest cave? This four-day expedition is booked out months in advance, so make sure you book early.

Take a day trip to Paradise Cave. Trust us, you won't regret it

Ninh Binh & Tam Coc

Often referred to as 'Halong Bay on land' Ninh Binh and Tam Coc offer travellers endless rice fields, towering limestone cliffs and surreal landscapes on tap. If you don't have time to hike Sapa or aren't keen on cruising the Bay, this could be the perfect alternative.

Perfect for : travellers keen to hike through surreal landscapes and fill their feed with out-of-this-world snaps.

Travel notes :

Once you arrive, you can choose to stay in Ninh Binh or slightly outside of town in Tam Coc.

Consider taking an overnight train to get here! It's a great way to experience life like a local.

Rent a bike and hit hotspots like Hang Mua Viewpoint, Bich Dong Pagoda and Trang An.

Ninh Binh is close enough to Hanoi to work as a day tour if time doesn't permit an overnight stay.

Phu Quoc Island

Nestled off the coast of Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is known for its white-sand beaches and luxurious resorts along the palm-lined southwest coast. The Island is also home to the Phu Quoc National Park, which features lush mountain ranges, dense tropical jungle and wildlife galore.

Perfect for: travellers seeking a beach holiday and epic hiking trails.  

Public transport is limited on the island, so consider renting a motorbike or car to get around.

Visit between December and March for less chance of rain.

Duong Dong is the largest town on the island and the most popular spot for first-time visitors.

With your itinerary sorted, here are a few extra tips to ensure smooth sailing once you touch down.

Vaccinations . If you have not already been vaccinated, we recommend seeing your doctor and enquiring about a jab for hepatitis A, tetanus and typhoid. Beyond that, your doctor will be able to recommend any further immunisations based on your health and itinerary.

Visas . As a rule of thumb, all Aussie travellers require a valid visa for Vietnam. You can easily apply for an eVisa online that is valid for up to 90 days. Passport holders from countries outside of Australia should consult with the Vietnamese immigration website to confirm what visa is required for your visit.

Staying safe. While Vietnam is considered a very safe place for travellers, there is still the risk of petty crime, pickpocketing and scams against visitors. We recommend doing some research, checking sites like Smart Traveller, staying aware and practising common sense while you travel.

Best time to visit Vietnam . The weather in Vietnam can be split by region, with Hanoi in the north experiencing a different climate to Ho Chi Ming City in the south. Here's a quick guide to follow when planning your trip:

Winter (December to March) - Best for visiting the cities to avoid humidity and sticky summer heat. Just keep in mind it will be pretty chilly up north. This is also a great time to explore the Mekong Delta and the island of Phu Quoc.

Shoulder seasons (April - June & September to November) - Best for avoiding crowds and saving money. You'll likely experience a mix of sunshine and rain, so make sure you pack accordingly.

Peak season (July & August) - Best for ideal beach weather on the central coast and warm days across the country. Just keep in mind you may experience some monsoon downpours to help ease the humidity. Note: if you're keen to trek through Sapa, avoid travelling through the rainy season, as trails will be washed out.

Foreign Currency . Vietnam is still very much a cash-based society. While USD is accepted in some areas, we recommend having plenty of Vietnamese Dong (VND) on hand. Take a travel card and use a trusted ATM to withdraw more cash once you arrive.

Airconditioning . It's hot and humid - make sure you're accommodation has an air conditioner or fan. Trust us, this is a must.

Accessibility . As with most Southeast Asian countries, Vietnam is not ideal for travellers with accessibility requirements. Limited infrastructure and crowded streets make it a mission to travel with a wheelchair or mobility aid.

Despite this, there are a range of tour operators and providers that have tailored Vietnamese itineraries for those in wheelchairs. Speak to your travel expert to learn more.

Ready To Book Your Vietnamese Escape?

Suddenly craving a big bowl of pho? We don't blame you. Start planning your 10 days in Vietnam with the help of an expert, and chat with one of our team members today.

Offering everything from flights to accommodation, insurance and the best street food tours across the country, Flight Centre's travel experts are ready to take your Vietnamese itinerary to the next level.

Explore our Vietnam holiday packages today!

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Ultimate Vietnam Itinerary For 2 Weeks – 1 Month!

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Planning 2 weeks in Vietnam or even longer? I got you covered. In this guide, I’ll share my 2 week Vietnam itinerary for those travelling on annual leave. Then, we’ll get stuck into my personal preference: 1 month in Vietnam !

VIETNAM ESSENTIALS E-sim data plan Copy of Lonely Planet Vietnam Book buses and trains in Vietnam: 12GoAsia Pre-book your Hanoi airport to city transfer Accommodation: Browse hotels on Booking.com // hostels on Hostelworld Tours: GetYourGuide Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads) Essential reading: 101 Southeast Asia travel tips

Read next: the ultimate guide to solo female travelling in Vietnam

It’s not surprising Vietnam is such a popular place to travel. As one of the cheapest destinations to include in your Southeast Asia itinerary , it’s easily accessible for backpackers yet there are plenty of luxurious places to stay if you fancy treating yourself. Some of the best things to do in Southeast Asia are in Vietnam: untouched nature and countryside, enormous cities of 8+ million people, picturesque towns and villages, jungle, beaches and the world’s biggest cave. The food is incredible and the people are so wonderful.

Check out my other 2 week Asia itineraries to Taiwan , Malaysia , Bali and Korea .

Vietnam itinerary – how long to spend?

I think 2 weeks in Vietnam is the bare minimum if you want to see North, Central and Southern Vietnam. If you have less time than this, I’d suggest sticking to one part of Vietnam and doing it properly, for example North Vietnam where the attractions are close(ish) to one another. If you have a month in Vietnam, fantastic! You can see more of Vietnam without feeling rushed. If you have anywhere between 2 weeks and 1 month in Vietnam, follow my Vietnam 2 week itinerary below and add extra days wherever you fancy OR add in a couple of stops from my 1 month Vietnam itinerary.

How much does 2 weeks in Vietnam cost?

Vietnam is a great place to travel on a budget . A two week Vietnam trip on $500 (£400) is easily achievable.  Here are a few general prices:

• Bed in a hostel dorm – 90,000 to 180,000 VND (an average of $7) per night. 
• Mid-range hotels – from 250,000 VND ($10) per night.
• Street food is also cheap. Bahn mi (baguettes packed with tasty ingredients) can cost as little as 15,000 VND (80c / 50p).
• Sit-down meals in local restaurants start around 30,000 VND ($1.30 / £1).
• Bus and train journeys start at $7 a journey.
• Budget a little extra for Ha Long Bay and Sapa tours ($350 should cover all-inclusive mid-range tours to both).

• You’ll be a millionaire in Vietnam! $100 is 2.284 million dong. Good luck getting your head around that 😉
• Cash is king. You are rarely able to pay with bank card.
• There are always ATMs in cities and towns but remember to bring enough money to Ha Long Bay and Sapa as it’s unlikely you’ll find an ATM.
• Wear a secure bum bag while taking night buses or in crowded places.
• Tipping isn’t mandatory but it is appreciated. You can tip waiters, guides and other service workers.

SIM cards in Vietnam

Most hostels and hotels will have Wi-Fi but it’s sometimes not the best. If you plan to get off-grid in Ha Long Bay and Sapa during your 2 week Vietnam itinerary, stay connected with local data, research the best Vietnam SIM cards for tourists . Alternatively, sign up for an E-sim data plan . Simply scan the QR code and get going, no pick-up or delivery needed!

Getting to Vietnam

The main international airports are Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) and Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Saigon). I use Skyscanner to compare, browse and book flights. Some backpackers arriving from Laos take the bus from Luang Prabang to Hanoi but beware, this is a long and uncomfortable ride! It’s possible to arrive/depart in Saigon via a multi-day boat that connects with Phnom Penh. This is a fun experience stopping at attractions along the way usually with hotel stays included.

How to get around Vietnam

It may be dull but getting from A to B is crucial to any trip… Bus – for backpackers on a budget, you can catch sleeper buses. These are fairly comfy with individual bunks, although you may struggle if you have long legs! You can purchase multi-ticket books in local tour agencies in Hanoi or Saigon then phone up to reserve seats a day in advance of travel. Alternatively, use 12GoAsia to book and compare the prices of buses, trains and flights.

Train – take trains for the scenic route, especially around Hue and Hoi An. Train journeys can be booked on 12GoAsia and are pretty cheap: usually less than $10 for a few hours. For longer sleeper trains, use GetYourGuide to book journeys, for example the Hanoi to Sapa train . Flights – internal flights in Vietnam can be a good option. I paid $70 to fly from Saigon to Hoi An which took around an hour and saved me two night bus journeys. If you’re going a long distance and not making stops in between, they’re a no-brainer.

Motorbike  – this is also a popular option. Some people take one the whole way up the country but the most popular section is along the Hai Van Pass between Hue and Hoi An. You can drive yourself or go aboard a guide’s bike (though this will obviously be more costly).

It varies for different countries so check your visa requirements and restrictions before arriving. I’d recommend at least a month in Vietnam purely due to the volume of things to see and do!

What’s great about Vietnam?

Aside from the food, people, scenery and culture, I love how easy it is to travel Vietnam. Yes, there’s a well-developed tourist infrastructure with lots of hostels, public transport and tour agencies. But it’s also the shape of Vietnam! Because Vietnam is so long and thin, you travel in one direction without needing to go back on yourself. There’s a clearly defined backpack route, it’s easy to decide where to go next, and you’ll even see the same faces along the way. It couldn’t be easier!

Vietnam itinerary for 2 weeks

I would suggest that you spend: – 1 week in North Vietnam – 1 week split between Central and South Vietnam. Quick overview:

• Days 1-2 – Hanoi
• Days 3-4 – Ha Long Bay. Take an overnight ride to…
• Days 5-6 – Sapa
• Days 7-10 – Hoi An. Fly or take an overnight bus to…
• Days 12-14 – Ho Chi Minh (Saigon).

For the first week, we’ll follow my 7 day North Vietnam itinerary .

Note – in the guide linked above, I also share my North Vietnam suggestions for 10 and 14 days. So if you’re captivated by the idea of North Vietnam (who could blame you?), consider spending most of your time there. If you want to see the best of North, Central and Southern Vietnam, keep reading…

This whole itinerary can easily be reversed. If you’re flying into Saigon (Ho Chi Minh) rather Hanoi, you can start on day 14 and work backwards.

Days 1-2 – Hanoi

Hanoi is a hazy blur of scooters, local food stalls, teeming streets and colonial buildings. It’s also my favourite place in all of Vietnam. Some travellers find it overwhelming but I love the bustling atmosphere so much I’ve been four times! Since you’ll start your trip by flying into Hanoi, you may as well make the most of it. You’ll pass through a couple of times as you travel to Ha Long Bay and Sapa.

If you’re a city lover, I’d suggest spending any spare days in Hanoi. But if you’re on a tight 2 week Vietnam itinerary, two days is enough to catch the highlights.

Read next: the ultimate Hanoi itinerary

Things to do in Hanoi:

• Explore the Old Quarter where market shopping is colourful and affordable and local life is everywhere
• Wander the beautiful grounds of the Temple Of Literature
• Many new friends on the banks of the Hoan Kiem Lake and cross the bridge to the Turtle Tower
• Catch a show at the Opera House in the old French Quarter
• Learn about the lives of women at Vietnamese Women’s Museum
• Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda , a 15-metre temple on an island in West Lake dating back to 541 AD
• Watch a cute but confusing show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
• Understand the history at Hoa Lo Prison (known as the Hanoi Hilton) where prisoners were kept during the war with the US
• Visit the final resting place of the Communist leader at  Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum  
• Eat delectable Hanoi street food like pho, bun cha and bunh cuon
• Drink egg coffee , coconut coffee and caphe sua (Vietnamese iced coffee) at the many Hanoi cafes
• Experience the nightlife on beer corner where locals and tourists sip bia hoi (locally-made beer) for as little as 20 cents a glass.

Getting around Hanoi:

It’s easy to see the Old Quarter on foot then call a Grab (the Asian equivalent of Uber) when you want to go further afield. There are cars and scooter taxis to choose from. The latter is super cheap and allows you to dodge traffic jams by whizzing around the cars on the back of your driver’s bike. Fun and a bit crazy!

Pre-book a Hanoi airport to city taxi from $13

Where to stay in Hanoi

Hostels: Old Quarter View Hostel ($5 a night) // Nexy Hostel ($7 a night). Browse all Hanoi hostels . Hotels: Hanoi Unique Hotel // Hanoi Garden Boutique Hotel & Spa . Browse all Hanoi hotels .

Read my Hanoi blogs (can you tell I’m obsessed?):

• 9 hidden gems in Hanoi
• Complete guide to Hanoi street food
• Cute & atmospheric Hanoi cafes
• Where to drink egg coffee in Hanoi
• Visiting Train Street, Hanoi
• Neighbourhood guide: Ngoc Ha, Hanoi
• Neighbourhood guide: Truc Bach, Hanoi

Top tip – crossing the road in Hanoi is an experience in itself! It’s overwhelming at first since every road is awash with torrents of weaving scooters. Be brave and go with the flow. They will drive around you!

Days 3-4 – Ha Long Bay

The weird and wonderful cliff formations at Ha Long Bay make the region a UNESCO Heritage Site. There are beaches, caves and islands to explore while spending a couple of days cruising through the region by boat. If you have two weeks in Vietnam, you can take a quick 2 day trip to Ha Long Bay, travelling there on day three and back to Hanoi on the afternoon of day four. You’ll spend the night sleeping in a cosy cabin on your cruise boat.

Possible alteration: If you have time, consider spending an extra day and night in Ha Long. You’ll spend longer cruising deeper into the Bay and stay overnight on gorgeous Cat Ba, the largest island. To do this, spend a day less in Hoi An later on.

How to visit Ha Long Bay: Pre-booked cruises include travel from Hanoi and all your meals and activities. Expect to pay around $150 for a two-day cruise, although there are better and worse options available depending how much comfort you want. For a reliable, mid-range option, browse GetYourGuide’s overnight Hanoi cruises including meals, kayaking and guides.

Tip – if you’re a backpacker, you may enjoy the Castaway cruises that can be booked in any Hanoi hostel. Just be aware that everyone will be early-mid 20s and boozing is a big focus! If this doesn’t sound like your thing, take a different cruise.

Days 5-6 – Sapa

Next, I suggest you catch a night train from Hanoi to Sapa when you return from Ha Long. Tiring but necessary if you have just 2 weeks in Vietnam!

This magical little spot north of Hanoi is all about misty mountain scenery, rice terraces and the charm of hill-tribe villages.

I didn’t visit my first time in Vietnam so made a beeline earlier this year. I had a magical time, trekking and meeting minority hill tribe villagers who wear distinctive traditional dress. Our guide told us that their languages and cultures vary even between neighbouring villages.

Read next:  The perfect Sapa itinerary

How to visit Sapa: Arrive by sleeper train from Hanoi and book your accommodation and treks separately or (the easier option), take a multi-day tour from Hanoi including accommodation, meals and trekking. The guides take you on remote treks you wouldn’t find otherwise. Browse tours in any Old Quarter travel agency or book in advance . I took this 3 day tour with a homestay ( 2 day trip also available) or you can opt for a hotel stay instead. The hotels are generally in Sapa town while the homestays are out in the countryside. I would highly recommend a homestay as you get to experience more of the local culture.

Note – we were able to leave our big backpacks in storage in Sapa town and just take small backpacks on our trek to the homestay. This was a godsend! There were some (crazy) travellers in our group who chose to take all their things. Trekking up a slippy, muddy hill with 15kg of luggage is not my idea of fun!

Days 7-10 – Hoi An

I adore Hoi An even though it’s busy and touristic these days. I’ve been plenty of times now (and stayed there for over 2 months during one trip) and I’m never ready to leave! Even if you do nothing but sip iced coffee in Hoi An whilst admiring the characteristic hanging lanterns and crumbling UNESCO World Heritage buildings, it’s time well spent during your Vietnam travel itinerary.

Read next: A complete Hoi An itinerary

Things to do in Hoi An:  

• Wander the charming old town, visiting the many temples, pagodas, ancient houses and the famous Japanese Covered Bridge
• Take a Hoi An cooking course. I loved this one including a market tour and basket boat ride to the cooking school!
• Visit An Bang beach (5km from town and accessible by taxi, scooter or bicycle)
• Take a day trip to My Son temple ruins
• Board a boat trip to the Cham Islands . We took an underwater walking tour with oxygen helmets before spending the afternoon on the beach.
• Marvel at the Night Market’s hundreds of lanterns or, better yet, make your own during a lantern craft class .
• Visit quirky Tam Thanh Mural Village , 40km from Hanoi. Join a organised tour or arrange a taxi tour with a local driver
• Take a day trip to Da Nang and walk along the famous Golden Hands Bridge.
• Cute coffee shops in Hoi An
• A digital nomad guide to Hoi An
• Ultimate Hoi An street food guide
• Where to eat veggie and vegan food in Hoi An

How to get from Hanoi to Hoi An: Board a sleeper bus all the way to Hoi An or a bus from Hanoi to Da Nang which takes 15 hours. These trains are pretty comfortable and you save a night’s accommodation as well as a day’s travel time. Of course, you can also fly from Hanoi to Da Nang airport. Da Nang to Hoi An is just a 30-minute drive by taxi, train, bus or scooter. Book your transfer .

Where to stay in Hoi An

Hostels: Hoi An Backpackers (visit for the breakfast buffet and pool) // Little Leo Homestay and Hostel (a cosier, quieter hostel). Hotels: Hoi An Life Homestay ($12 a night) // Greenlife Villa (boutique suites from $20 a night) // Tan Thanh Garden Homestay beside the beach and my favourite Hoi An coffee shop ($35 a night). Browse all Hoi An hotels and Hoi An hostels .

Days 12-14 – Ho Chi Minh/Saigon

Finish your 2 week Vietnam itinerary in the only city to rival Hanoi in size. For Vietnamese history, it doesn’t get much better than Ho Chi Minh City which is frequently referred to as Saigon: its official name until the war with the US and China.

Things to do:

• Learn at the War Remnants Museum
• Shop and eat at tBen Thanh Market
• Visit the various art galleries
• Get immersed in the Saigon food scene
• Sip coffee at the cafe apartment building
• Admire the colonial Opera House, Central Post Office and City Hall
• Take day trip to the Mekong Delta during a guided tour from Saigon
• Take a half-day trip to the Củ Chi Tunnels used by Vietnamese soldiers during the war.

Getting to Saigon from Hoi An: While I don’t recommend flying internally for environmental reasons, if you just have 2 weeks in Vietnam, you’ll probably need to. A flight between Hoi An and Saigon takes just an hour. If you travel by bus, you’re in for a long night bus departing in Hoi An then a night’s stopover in Nha Trang , a city in Vietnam that I don’t especially love. Basically, it will take you two days!

Read next: 

• A complete Saigon itinerary
• All the best foods to try in Saigon

Where to stay in Saigon: VY Khanh and Alleyway Hostel are best for backpackers on a budget // Little Saigon Boutique Hotel for private double rooms. Browse all Saigon hotels and Saigon hostels .

Vietnam itinerary for 1 month

My 2 week Vietnam above is designed to help you see as much of Vietnam as possible during a short trip. There’s no way you can see everything, even with 1 month in Vietnam but, if you follow this itinerary, you’ll get to see much more!

Days 1-3 – Hanoi . As above. Follow my 3 day Hanoi itinerary . Days 4-6 – Ha Long Bay. As above. With an extra night in Ha Long, you can take a cruise with 1 night on the boat and 1 night on Cat Ba Island. Days 7-9 – Sapa. As above. Catch a night bus from Hanoi the night you return from Ha Long Bay or spend night 6 in Hanoi and travel to Sapa the next day.

Days 10-11 – Ninh Binh.  See below. Days 12-14 – Phong Nha National Park . See below Days 15-17 – Hue . See below Day 18 – the Hai Van Pass . See below. Days 19-21 – Hoi An . As above. Day 22 – Nha Trang . See below. Days 23-25 – Da Lat . See below. Days 26-27 – Mui Ne . See below. Days 27-30 – Saigon . As above.

More details on the extra stops

If you have more than 2 weeks in Vietnam, here are more details on the places you’ll have time for. Even if you’re following my 2 week Vietnam itinerary above, use the following stops as alternative suggestions. Swap them if they sound more appealing than the destinations I mentioned earlier in this guide.

Somewhere I’d recommend including in an extended Vietnam itinerary is Ninh Binh, a town and countryside region a couple of hours south of Hanoi. ‘Ha Long Bay on land’ is the perfect stop if the craggy, rock formations of Ha Long leave you feeling inspired. Ninh Binh town isn’t particularly captivating so use it as a base and get stuck into the countryside.

Things to do in Ninh Binh:  Hop on a wooden boat where a local woman will row you with her feet past impressive ‘Tam Coc’ (a set of cliff formations translating as ‘three caves’), visit Bich Dong Pagoda and climb to the Mau Caves Viewpoint.

Read next: How to spend a day in Ninh Binh, Vietnam

How to visit: Book a 2.5-hour bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh to visit Ninh Binh independently. When you arrive, hire a scooter (or a scooter with driver if you’re not comfortable driving) to explore the region. If you’re short on time, take a Ninh Binh day tour from Hanoi . Where to stay in Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu Family Stay based in town (dorms for $4, private rooms for $11) // Trang An Eco Homestay based in the stunning countryside.

Phong Nha National Park

A perk of spending a month in Vietnam is getting off-the-beaten-track and discovering the vast Vietnamese countryside and warren of underground caves. While the world’s largest cave is in Phong Nha, visiting is near impossible without a team of porters, two weeks and £3,000. Luckily, there are plenty of incredible cave sites within the park you can visit with ease.

Read next: A day exploring Phong Nha National Park

Where to stay in Phong Nha: There’s a small town at the heart of the national park also called Phong Nha. Stay at Funny Monkeys Homestay ($15 a night) with beautiful river views. Getting to Phong Nha: It’s easiest to reach Phong Nha by bus as all the local companies drop on the doorstep of Phong Nha town. Unfortunately, this is at 4am if coming from Hanoi or Ninh Binh but most hostels are a minute’s walk away and will let you check in then. A train to or from Dong Hoi station is an option but gets you in a 45-minute taxi ride away from Phong Nha. Since some of the caves are far apart in the countryside, it’s best to book a caves day tour in Phong Nha town.

Hue is Vietnam’s temple capital. Explore the walled fortress, the Imperial City, largely destroyed during the War but since restored and now as majestic as its heyday. Many people visit the Citadel and leave Hue but I liked spending 2 days in Hue , touring the countryside and discovering elaborate tombs and temples. Getting to Hue: Catch a bus or train from Hanoi , Ninh Binh or Phong Nha. Where to stay in Hue: Splash out at Hue Ecolodge , a bargain at $35 a night with luxury rooms and swimming pool access. For accommodation in town, stay at Stop and Go Boutique Homestay Hue ($13 a night).

Things to do in Hue:  Tour the Citadel to see the Forbidden City and the royal gardens. Since there’s no public transport or taxis available around the countryside, hire a scooter or book a Hue day tour to visit The Royal Temple of Tu Duc, Tu Hieu Pagoda, The Tomb of Khai Dinh and Minh Mang Tomb. For a quirky adventure, break into Hue Abandoned Waterpark !

This is quite the contrast to the intricate, ancient temples of Hue. Despite high hopes for this would-be tourist attraction, it was abandoned before opening. A huge dragon statue rears above an empty aquarium, perched upon a lake once teeming with live crocodiles. The ‘official’ line is that you can’t go inside the Abandoned Waterpark. However, savvy backpackers make their way inside daily, bribing the security guard or trekking through the undergrowth from the road.

The Hai Van Pass

When travelling between Hue and Hoi An, don’t take the bus: it travels through an underground tunnel meaning you’ll miss the view. To add some coastal beauty to your Vietnam itinerary, take the train or, better yet, drive the Hai Van Pass by car, scooter or Jeep!

While I often associate Vietnam with misty rice terraces and mountainous cliffs, I rarely think of sweeping coastal views and empty beaches. But that’s exactly what you get when driving the Hai Van Pass! Stops to make if coming from Hue to Hoi An include An Bang Cemetery, Dam Cau Hai (Salt Lake), Cảnh Dương Bay and Lập An Lagoon. You can end the day by staying overnight in Da Nang, one of the fastest-growing cities in Vietnam or continue further to quaint but touristic Hoi An. Many companies will transfer your luggage if you’re travelling by scooter.

Nha Trang isn’t my favourite place in Vietnam but it’s a necessary base if travelling down the coast from Hoi An. Most backpackers arrive in the AM after a night bus from Hoi An and a bit of beach time is exactly what they need.  Things to do: Head to one of the famous mud spas surroundings Nha Trang; the most famous two are Thap Ba and 100 Egg Spa. Visit Po Nagar Cham temple or relax on the beach. Getting to Nha Trang: Catch a night bus from Hoi An .

Read next:  How to survive a trip to Nha Trang

This green countryside paradise is a popular spot for an extended Vietnam itinerary. Set up in the mountains, the climate’s cool and the pace of life is slow. Things to do: Take a countryside tour to see coffee plantations and waterfalls. Canyoning is also a popular activity for daredevils. Don’t miss the Crazy House , a modern art residence that may remind you of Gaudi’s work or Alice in Wonderland! Spend one day in Da Lat to explore the countryside and another if you want to go canyoning. Getting there: Catch a four-hour train or bus from Nha Trang .

Mui Ne is a beach town most famous for sandboarding, though surfing and water sports can be practised, too. Whilst travelling down the coast Mui Ne is a good spot for sporty types, as well as those in need of relaxation. Things to do: Set an early alarm to beat the heat and see sunrise over the dunes (or sunset if you’re not an early bird). The other option is sand sports. Getting there: A four-hour bus from Nha Trang or a five-hour bus from Ho Chi Minh .

Spend a day or night on the Mekong Delta

Even during a short trip, there’s time for a day trip to the Mekong from Saigon . If you have more time, why not spend two days and a night? As well as seeing how locals use the Mekong for transportation, you’ll visit some of Asia’s largest floating markets. Here, shops on stilts and merchants in boats dole out fruit, souvenirs and more. Take a 2 day trip or better, one including Cai Rang floating village .

Those travelling to Cambodia next can take a tour from Saigon to Phnom Penh , stopping along the way! I had a great time doing this a few years ago.

Beach lover? For a 2 week Vietnam itinerary, visit either Hanoi or Saigon, spend 3 days in Hoi An, then finish at either of the following beaches:

Phu Quoc Island

In Phu Quoc, you get that real holiday vibe: white sand, boat trips and massages on the beach that won’t set you back more than 90,000 VND (£3). However, I’ve heard it’s starting to get much more touristic with lots of golf resorts popping up…

Things to do: Lie on the beach or visit Dinh Cau Night Market for fresh seafood. You’ll find everything from lobsters to crabs and even sea snails if you’re feeling adventurous.

Getting there: Flights from Ho Chi Minh start at $20 each way and take under an hour. Tag it onto the end of this itinerary for 1 month in Vietnam. Where to stay in Phu Quoc: For beautiful river views and $10 rooms, stay at The River Mouth .

If you’re looking for a tourist beach break, don’t go to Quy Nhon ! This beach town is a real hidden gem in Vietnam. There aren’t any big hotels or tour companies around and you won’t find it included in many Vietnam itineraries. For that reason, it’s one of my favourite places for escaping the crowds and seeing local life. Come 5pm, the whole town seems to come down to the beach to relax and play football. It’s a special spot! Getting to Quy Nhon: It’s a 7-hour bus from Hoi An in Central Vietnam. Where to stay in Quy Nhon: Nhon Hai Beach Hostel .

What to eat in Vietnam

Vietnamese food is fresh and flavoursome, making it one of my all-time favourite cuisines. Eat at street stalls and you’ll never pay for than £1-2 for dinner: Pho: You’ll have heard of this one already unless you’ve been living under a rock. It’s essentially noodle soup but thanks to a flavoursome broth, lime, chilli, coriander and tasty ‘bo’ (beef) or ‘ga’ (chicken), it’s always a winner. Bun cha: Slow-cooked pork balls in a salty broth with a side of rice noodles to dip and a serving of ‘nem’ (fried spring rolls). This dish is from Hanoi so is usually not found down south.

Fresh spring rolls: Also known as ‘summer rolls’ these are sheets of rice paper rolled with fresh ingredients. Pork, shrimp, rice noodles, lettuce and cucumber make them so healthy and tasty.

Banh mi: Freshly baked baguettes stuffed with a choice of ingredients. Eat them with meat pate, pork floss (nicer than it sounds), cucumber and more. Don’t miss my guide to the best banh mi in Vietnam !

Com tam: Pork glazed with a sweet and sticky sauce, served with rice and a gooey fried egg. I can’t get enough.

Vietnamese beer is probably the cheapest in the world. If you order the bia hoi (‘fresh beer’ which is brewed on-site) pints begin in the vicinity of 10p. Read my food guides to Hanoi , Hoi An , Saigon and my egg coffee Hanoi guide!

Browse Hanoi street food tours . They’re so much fun!

What’s the best season to visit Vietnam?

Spring (March-May) is generally the best time to visit Vietnam because temperatures aren’t too high and there’s not much rain. Summer (June-August) can be VERY hot and rainy but I have travelled Vietnam this time myself and it’s possible as long as you stay protected. The north of Vietnam experiences cold winters from December to February. Hoi An often experiences flooding from September-December.

Customs, language and safety

Vietnam isn’t a place where you’ll need to be especially conservative so shorts and t-shirts will do fine apart from when you visit temples. Here you should cover your knees and shoulders.

The Vietnamese are so incredibly kind and friendly. Around Hanoi coffee shops and lakefront, you’re bound to pick up some new friends keen to practice their English. Chat with them – they’ll love it, and probably offer to show you around.

Violent crime is basically nonexistent. But bag and phone snatchings in Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi occasionally occur. In Hoi An, be careful of the unofficial motorbike drivers who hang around the bars at night – get a licensed taxi instead.

Learn some Vietnamese phrases

Cam Un  – thank you Chao ban – hello Tam biet – goodbye.

Thanks for reading my Vietnam itinerary!

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VIETNAM QUICK LINKS Getting around by air – it’s easy to get between cities by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Stay connected with E-sim data plans that don’t require delivery or collection; just span the QR code. In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Lonely Planet Vietnam . For Vietnam buses and trains , I use 12GoAsia . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide as they have a huge range of affordable tours. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

7 thoughts on “ Ultimate Vietnam Itinerary For 2 Weeks – 1 Month! ”

Love this!! Thanks for reading and commenting

This may have been the most useful guide to Vietnam I have found, loved all the recommendations. I am looking to travel here later in the year so thank you for all the tips!

Hi Becky, thanks so much for commenting, it means a lot to hear you enjoyed it! Enjoy Vietnam 🙂

Hi there 🙂 we are spending a month in Vietnam, but we are starting in Saigon as we are coming from Cambodia would you suggest doing it backwards? x

Hi Ellena, yes you can definitely just reverse it. Enjoy!

This is so helpful. I wouldn’t have more than two weeks, so really appreciate your suggestions for an itinerary! Everyone I know who has been to Vietnam loves it.

Hi Barbara, yes I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love it! Have an amazing trip!

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14 Days in Vietnam Itinerary

Vietnam has it all : From stunning mountains to relaxing beaches, from buzzing metropolises to historic small towns – and don’t forget the world renown food!

If you’re looking to spend two weeks in Vietnam, here’s our 14 days in Vietnam itinerary.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Getting around Vietnam

How much time do you need in vietnam, best time to visit vietnam, 14 days in vietnam itinerary, day 1 – 3: 3 days in hanoi, day trip from hanoi to halong bay, day trip from hanoi to ninh binh, getting from hanoi to ha giang, day 4 – 6: 3 days ha giang motorbike loop, getting from ha giang to hue, day 7 – 8: 2 days in hue, getting from hue to hoi an, day 9 – 10: 2 days in hoi an, getting from hoi an to ho chi minh city, day 11-12: 2 days in ho chi minh city, day trip from ho chi minh city to the mekong delta and cu chi tunnel, getting from ho chi minh city to phu quoc, day 13 – 14: 2 days on phu quoc island.

Vietnam is a large country. It has an elongated shape hence many travellers choose to move through the country from north to south or vice versa. For reference, a direct train ride from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City will take more than 30 hours.

To see as much as possible in 14 days in Vietnam, you have to travel fast. To see the most in a short time, you have to take advantage of:

• Sleeper trains and buses.
• Sightseeing transfers.
• Inland flights.

Fortunately, the tourist infrastructure in Vietnam is amazing making travelling easy. You can conveniently book transfers and tours from travel agencies throughout the country or online.

See also: Vietnam Tourist Visa: Everything You Need to Know

Of course, with time, more is always better. 7 days is the bare minimum you need in Vietnam and in that case, you should focus your time either spending one week in Northern Vietnam or Southern Vietnam.

In two weeks, you can traverse the whole country on a fast-paced itinerary.

If you have a bit longer, check out our Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks: From North to South

The dry season in Vietnam spans from December to April. Beware that because of its elongated shape, the climate in northern and southern Vietnam can differ vastly. Northern Vietnam can get pretty cold during the winter months and you can even expect snow on Vietnam’s highest mountain Fansipan.

Start your Vietnam itinerary in the capital Hanoi. One of the best ways to ease yourself into a new country is by doing a (free) walking tour – especially if you’re short on time.

Make sure not to miss any of the highlights like train street, the French Quarter, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Take a rest with a famous – and delicious – egg coffee.

Check out: Top Hanoi Things To Do

As your time is limited, you’ll visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay on a day trip rather than an overnight trip.

It’s just a short drive from Hanoi and day tours are easily organised. You’ll cruise through the dramatic limestone cliffs and maybe get some activity in by kayaking or hiking to a viewpoint.

Check out our post on How to Choose the Right Ha Long Bay Cruise

Ninh Binh, also dubbed Halong Bay on land, is another easy day trip from Hanoi. Most tours ( like this one ) will include a boat ride in Tam Coc leading you through rice paddies, limestone cliffs, and caves (yes, you’ll ride a boat through an actual cave!).

Additionally, you’ll go to the Instagram famous dragon viewpoint at Mua Cave as well as Bai Dinh Pagoda, the biggest pagoda in Vietnam.

To be time efficient, you should book a tour. This will make it possible to hop off the night bus and on the motorbike. After three days of riding, you will hop back on another night bus to Hanoi.

The Ha Giang Motorbike Loop is the highlight of most travellers visiting Vietnam. The normal tour takes 4 days but if you’re short on time, you can also do the express tour which lasts 3 days .

Don’t worry, if you don’t dare to drive a motorbike yourself, you can go with an easy rider.

The highlights of the Ha Giang Loop include mountain passes like the Ma Pi Leng Pass, the northmost point of Vietnam Lung Cu, the ancient town of Dong Van, and the UNESCO Dong Van Geopark.

See also: Vietnam Central Highlands: Motorbike Tour of the Hill Tribe Towns

Whether you fly or take an overnight bus or train, it will take you a while to get from Ha Giang to Hue. You first have to circle back to Hanoi from where you can travel onwards.

If you want to make the most of your time in the old imperial city, we advise you to go on a guided tour again . It will include all the highlights like the Imperial Citadel, the Thien Mu Pagoda, and a selection of imperial tombs like Ming Mang Tomb and Khai Dinh Tomb as well as a boat ride on the Perfume River.

If you want more independence, you can also visit all these sights with a taxi, motorbike, or bicycle .

The best way to get from Hue to Hoi An is via the Hai Van pass – either by motorbike or guided tour.

The lantern capital Hoi An is arguably the prettiest town in Vietnam. Its old wooden and colourful colonial buildings invite you to take a stroll during the day. It’s cosy cafes and delicious street food invite you to rest and indulge.

It’s the evening when the city really comes alive, though. Thousands of lanterns are lit all over town. The most magical place to watch this spectacle is along the riverside where you can go on a romantic boat tour.

You can even craft your own lantern. Another activity that Hoi An is famous for is having clothes tailored.

This is the second and last long travel day of your trip. To take a train or plane to Ho Chi Minh City, you have to go via the beach city of Da Nang.

Once you’ve reached the biggest city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, we again advise you to go on a (free) walking tour to see the most in a short time.

Some of the major must-visit places include the War Remnants Museum, the Central Post Office, the Reunification Palace, and Chinatown.

You should also try some of the local delicacies like snails at one of the many local markets.

Do not miss the nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City. Bui Vien Walking Street is wild, even wilder than the famous Khao San Road in Bangkok.

Related read : Top 10 Best Street Food In Ho Chi Minh City

The most time-efficient way to see the Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City is via a guided tour . The whole experience is rather touristy but still very worthwhile. You’ll visit a honey farm and a fruit farm, taste coconut candy, and go on a short row boat ride along a coconut canal.

On the way back to Ho Chi Minh City, you can opt to visit the Cu Chi Tunnel to learn more about the Vietnam War – a chapter in the history of Vietnam which should not be omitted from your travel itinerary.

Taking a flight will save you the long bus and ferry ride.

Make your way to Phu Quoc Island to relax your last couple of days on the beach. If you want a bit more than just beach time, there are plenty of things you can explore like waterfalls, pepper farms, fishing villages, and markets.

We are Carina and Philipp, a 30 something year old couple from Germany. We are a travel writer and a web developer, who travelling the world. You can find tips for travel planning, tested a (often fast paced) itineraries, some behind the scenes information about us, as well as travel ideas for Germany and the rest of the world - and of course you’ll get to know us!

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Vietnam itinerary: the perfect itinerary for 2 and 3 weeks backpacking!

You can find the perfect Vietnam itinerary with the ultimate highlights of the country in this blog: a 2-week itinerary and an itinerary of over 3 weeks of travelling through Vietnam! We also share a lot of tips for Vietnam.

Itinerary Vietnam: the highlights of this beautiful country

Finally, it was time to get to know Vietnam ourselves, a country that has been on our bucket list for a long time! We travelled by public transport from the south of Vietnam to the north in a bit more than two weeks. It was a cool journey in which we got to see a lot of Vietnam, but definitely not everything. That is why we also have included a three-week itinerary for Vietnam in this blog.

Under both itineraries, you will find a short description of the different highlights of Vietnam which makes planning easier.

Itinerary Vietnam: 2 weeks backpacking through Vietnam

In less than two weeks you can already see a beautiful part of Vietnam. The map below shows a representation of the itinerary you will travel these two weeks in Vietnam.

Map Vietnam with itinerary 2 weeks:

Ho Chi Minh City – Dalat – Hoi An – Phong Nha – Hanoi – Sapa – Hanoi

What does this itinerary through Vietnam look like in two weeks?

In two weeks you will travel from the south of Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh) to the north (Hanoi). It’s also possible to reverse the route, just keep in mind, in North Vietnam it is a lot colder than South Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh (2 days) is your first destination. It is a busy city, with a small concise centre for tourists. Two days in Ho Chi Minh is enough, but more time is nice too. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels and the War Remenants museum. This gives you an idea of the history and war this country was in. The next destination? Dalat (2 days), a beautiful mountain town where it is a lot cooler than in Ho Chi Minh City. Transport to Dalat can be done by bus, but we decided to fly. In Dalat, enjoy adventure activities like Canoeing.

The itinerary from Hoi An to Hanoi:

You fly from Dalat to Hoi An (3 days) . The airport at Hoi An is called Da Nang, a big city that is much less fun than Hoi An. From Da Nang it is still half an hour by taxi to Hoi An. Hoi An is a beautiful and ancient city. Especially the architecture is beautiful! But Hoi An is also a place to relax and Hoi An is on the beach!

Vietnam budget tip : taxis from Da Nang to Hoi An can inflate their prices. Therefore, book a taxi online in advance for only 5.50 euros per person. Click here for more information.

After three relaxing days, you continue by bus to Phong Nha (2 days) where you will see the largest caves in the world. Definitely don’t stay for more than two days, the village is tiny and there is not much to do outside the caves. From Phong Nha, it’s an easy one-hour flight to Hanoi (3 days) , where we advise you to stay at least three days. Here you can enjoy the small streets full of merchandise, the beautiful parks and the delicious food.

Still, some time and energy left? Then the northern region of  Sapa (2.5 days) should be added to your Vietnam itinerary! From Hanoi, you travel by bus in 5 hours to Sapa where you should definitely do one of the beautiful hikes. Sapa is a mountainous area, bordering China and hiking is very cool here! Finally, travel back to Hanoi where your journey ends.

Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks backpacking through Vietnam!

Do you have more time? Lucky you, then you can see a lot more of this beautiful country! The Vietnam itinerary below is for three weeks but can be done at a slower pace in 4 weeks or a month.

Map Vietnam: itinerary 3 or 4 weeks

Hanoi – Sapa – Cat Ba/ Ha Long Bay – Ninh Binh – Phong Nha – Hue – Hoi An – Mui Ne – Dalat – Ho Chi Minh City

Backpacking Vietnam: what does the 3-week itinerary in Vietnam look like?

This time you start in Hanoi (3 days) , and you are now travelling from north to south. The other way around is also possible. Here too you will visit Sap a (2 days) but after Sapa, you will immediately travel to Cat Ba / Ha Long Bay (3 days) . Plan some time for this: first, you go by night bus from Sapa to Hanoi in 5 hours, then you change to the night bus and take the boat to Cat Ba, total travel time: 15 hours. Don’t worry, on the cruise you will be doing from Ha Long Bay from Cat Ba, you’ll have plenty of time to rest from this long journey.

Travelling from North Vietnam to South Vietnam!

After a few days of relaxation, continue by bus to Ninh Binh (2 days) . Here you can enjoy the beautiful nature and the huge karst mountains that you can sail by boat. Your next destination is Phong Nha (2 days) , a 7-hour drive from Ninh Binh by bus. Here you visit the caves but don’t stay too long, it is a small place. If you still have time, consider continuing to Hoi An earlier, but make a short stop in Hue . In Hoi An (3 days) you stay a little longer to rest after the many travel days.

The next destination is also very relaxed: you fly to Mui Ne (3 days) , a nice coastal town for surfing or sandboarding of the dunes. Mui Ne is a quiet beach town, but if you want white beaches and a clear blue sea, you can always consider swapping this with a trip to Phu Quoc , in the south of Vietnam. From Mui Ne it is about 4 hours by bus and then you are in Dalat (2 days) . The trip ends in Ho Chi Minh City (2 days) after which you leave Vietnam.

This is a full schedule, but achievable. Travelling in Vietnam is easy by (night) bus, but for a few euros more you also have a plane ticket. Want to take it easier? Then skip Phong Nha and Hue and fly directly from Ninh Binh to Hoi An or choose to skip Ha Long Bay and enjoy the equivalent mountains in Ninh Binh.

The most important highlights of Vietnam at a glance!

Below is an overview of the highlights of Vietnam. Do you miss a place? Let us know!

Highlights Vietnam 1:  Hanoi city, Nort Vietnam

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam, a city with a lot of history. The French influence on Vietnam is clearly visible in the beautiful old buildings in the Old Quarter and the French Quarter. Join a food tour and taste a thousand flavours of the Vietnamese cuisine! And enjoy the peace in the park in the middle of the city. While going back into the tiny street, beware that you are not driven over by the thousands of motorbikes that blow through traffic.

Highlights Vietnam 2:  Sapa, the mountain region of Vietnam

Sapa is a small town in the North of Vietnam, a very quiet and peaceful area. Here you will find hills and extensive rice terraces. Make a multi-day trek and stay overnight with locals, a great experience!

Highlights Vietnam 3:  Ha Long Bay/Cat Ba a beautiful bay full of limestones!

Ha Long Bay is a region in the north-west of Vietnam. It is a huge bay with thousands of limestone islands that rise up above the sea. The largest island is Cat Ba, from where you can do all kinds of multi-day cruises.

Click here for a multi-day cruise through the bay of Ha Long

Highlights Vietnam 4:  Ninh Binh green valleys and high peaks!

Ninh Binh is a small city in the Ninh Binh province. The beautiful surroundings are the reason to visit Ninh Binh. Here you will find huge karst mountains between the green valleys, just like in Ha Long Bay. The places Tam Coc and Trang An are highly recommended!

Highlights Vietnam 5:  Phong Nha, exploring the best caves of Vietnam!

Curious about the largest caves in the whole world? Be sure to visit the town of Phong Nha. You will find here the Paradise Cave and the Phong Nha Cave , both impressive Limestone Caves. The largest cave in the world, So’n Doong Cave, is not (yet) open to the general public. There are only a few visitors per year who may visit this cave through a multi-day trek (very expensive).

Do you also want to enter the caves and marvel at this beautiful natural phenomenon? Click here for more information for a full-day tour of Phong Nha.

Highlights Vietnam 6:  Hué, the old imperial capital of Vietnam!

Hue is the old imperial capital of Vietnam, clearly visible in all the beautiful old buildings in the old city centre. Hue is relatively small and half a day is enough to see everything. Use this as a strategic resting place between Phong Nha and Hoi An.

Highlights Vietnam 7:  Hoi An, a lovely colonial village in the middle of Vietnam!

Hoi An is a beautiful small city in central Vietnam. It is one of the few cities that has remained almost completely in the old state despite the Vietnam War. You will find centuries-old colourful buildings that are still in full use. This makes a visit to Hoi An like travelling through time. Hoi An is close to the sea which also makes it a great place to rest a little longer. Be prepared, Hoi An is a very touristic place, totally understandable considering the beauty of the city. Read about our time in Hoi An (only in Dutch).

Two beautiful sights from Hoi An: My Son and Ba Na Hills

There is also plenty to see outside Hoi An. A must-see on your Hoi An route is a day trip to the My Son Sanctuary. This beautiful area is full of temples and other excavations and is truly magical! Click here for more information about a possible tour to My Son.

Highlights Vietnam 8:  Nha Trang / Mui Ne, beach life in Vietnam!

Mui Ne is a quiet beach town. It is not (yet) discovered by mass tourism and you will find authentic fishing villages in the area. You will go to Mui Ne to relax, or to surf, kite or sandboard. In doubt between Mui Ne and Nha Trang? Do not hesitate any longer: Nha Trang is flooded by (drunken) Russians and therefore not a pleasant place anymore.

Highlights Vietnam 9:  Dalat, a small mountain village great for outdoor activities!

Dalat was a very positive surprise for us. It is a small mountain town, built at the time of French rule as a summer residence for wealthy French. The city itself is beautiful to see with a large lake in the middle. In addition, you can undertake great outdoor activities, such as Canoeing. Dalat is also a good place to start or end with one  Easy Riders motortour !

Highlights Vietnam 10:  Ho Chi Minh City, the old Saigon!

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam. It is a bustling, warm city full of skyscrapers and bars. Looking for a good night out? That is not a problem here, the nightlife is over the top. But Ho Chi Minh City is also a must-visit when you are interested in culture and history. Be sure to pay a visit to the war museum and take a tour of the Cu Chi tunnels.

Here you will find a nice tour to the Cu Chi tunnels that you can book online.

Highlights Vietnam 11:  Mekong Delta, exploring markets

The Mekong Delta is a large branch of the Mekong River that runs through Cambodia, China and Laos. People in this region live on the river. Not only their homes are here but also shopping and trading takes place on the water. Visiting the Mekong Delta is easiest from the town of My Tho, where various boat tours depart.

Vietnam tip: You can also visit the Mekong Delta as a day trip from Ho Chi Minh. Click here for more information about such a trip that you can book online.

Highlights Vietnam 12:  Phu Quoc, tropical life in Vietnam!

White beaches, swaying palm trees and a clear blue sea. Something you will not encounter much in Vietnam, except on this beautiful tropical island. Phu Quoc is slightly more expensive than the rest of Vietnam, but from what I have heard, the money is more than worth it!

Click here for all my Vietnam blogs !

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7-day Vietnam Itinerary: For First-timers

Craving a cheap getaway but struggling to decide between a bustling city filled with entertainment or a quiet getaway complete with idyllic beaches? Why not get the best of both worlds, by travelling from North to South Vietnam in just a week! With a comprehensive itinerary spanning three major cities in Vietnam, you are bound to be satisfied with BOTH the retail therapy and beach getaway that await you! 

Itinerary Overview:

Day 1: Singapore to Hanoi 

Day 2: Hanoi 

Day 3: Hanoi to Halong Bay 

Day 4: Halong Bay to Da Nang 

Day 5: Da Nang 

Day 6: Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City 

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City to Singapore 

Day 1: Singapore to Hanoi

Hoan nghênh! (Welcome!) You’ve probably just landed at Noi Bai International Airport, all ready to discover what the famed capital of Vietnam has to offer. Whether you’re here for the cheap shopping or their famous Vietnamese coffee, you’re bound to love Hanoi, a bustling city filled with history, culture, delectable food and really friendly locals! Be careful of the motorcycles that throng the streets though! 

Let’s kickstart the day by visiting the famous Old Quarter, located in the Hoan Kiem district, where you will find an array of delicious food, sights and activities! Situated in the heart of Hanoi, this is a tourist hotspot and where you’ll truly get a glimpse of Vietnamese culture. From street shopping to admiring the exquisite French-colonial architecture, you’ll never find yourself bored here! Packed with hostels, shops and cafes lining the streets, we recommend simply strolling and enjoying the buzz of the area, while observing the locals and their way of life. 

For lunch, tickle your taste buds by trying some Hanoi street specialties such as Banh Mi (toasted baguette with meat and vegetable fillings), Bun Cha (grilled pork and noodle) and Cha Ca (fried fish and dill, eaten with rice noodles).

You can also check out Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi’s largest indoor market. Offering a wide range of goods within its four storey building, you can find everything here. On the ground floor, there is a bustling wet-market section with the freshest produce and if you head upstairs, you’ll stumble upon cheap printed tees, wholesale fashion and a range of accessories. Besides having a huge variety of goods, there is a massive dining area within the market, with vendors selling local dishes and Vietnamese coffee for extremely low prices. 

Next, head to Hoan Kiem Lake, a scenic lake in the historical centre of Hanoi. An area dearly loved by both the young and old, many throng here to get away from the hustle and bustle of life or to get some fresh air and exercise. If you arrive as early as 5.00am, you’ll spot the elderly actively doing tai chi or aerobics, or the young doing yoga. Not only is it a picturesque place to relax and take photographs, it’s also the perfect picnic spot. 

If you’re still brimming with energy, head down to Bia Hoi Junction in the Old Quarter, to experience Hanoi’s amazing nightlife. If it’s a weekend, it's likely that the small junction will be crowded with locals all sitting outside the makeshift bars, chatting whilst drinking Beer Hoi and munching on street snacks. With beers served for as cheap as VND 10,000 ($0.60!), you can easily enjoy a few ice-cold beers without bursting your budget!

Day 2: Hanoi

Rise and Shine! Today we’ll continue to explore Hanoi, starting with a pho-bulous breakfast to fuel ourselves! How can one come to Vietnam and not try its national dish?  We suggest visiting Pho Bat Dan for arguably the best Pho in Hanoi! Located right in the heart of Old Quarter, this humble shop has been here since the 1960s and it is greatly loved by locals and tourists alike. Selling only one dish – beef noodles, you can be sure that their Pho is as traditional and authentic as it can get.  

Get ready to savour a fresh, piping hot and aromatic bowl of beef Pho, complete with clear broth and rich soup made of bone marrow. Not only is the beef extremely soft and tender, the noodles are chewy and with every mouthful of soup you consume, you’ll simply want yet another. Since the shop is only open for breakfast and dinner, remember to wake up early in order not to miss this gastronomic experience!

After a hearty breakfast, head down to the Ho Chi Minh Museum for a better understanding of Vietnam’s revolutionary struggle against foreign powers. Constructed in the 1990s, it is one of Vietnam’s most famous museums and has a comprehensive depiction of Ho Chi Minh’s life. Filled with various collections of artifacts, miniatures and national treasures as well as written descriptions and guided tours, you’re bound to get a thorough understanding of Vietnam’s national hero and get a better picture of what shaped Vietnam to become the country it is today. 

Our next stop is Hỏa Lò Prison, a prison-turned-museum, which was previously used by the French colonists in Vietnam for political prisoners and North Vietnam for US Prisoners, during the Vietnam War. Also sarcastically known to the American Prisoners Of War (POWs) as the Hanoi Hilton, it’s the Hilton where no one wants to be. Walking through the museum is a fascinating albeit slightly nerve-wrecking experience, whereby one will be enlightened by the grim history while feeling the shivers down their spine as they pass through prison cells. If you’re a history buff, you’ll enjoy this interesting and informative museum, which will definitely give you a better insight into Vietnam’s history. 

Finally, end the night with some shopping at Hanoi Weekend Night Market, for the best late-night shopping experience! Held only on Friday till Sunday, experience the noisy, bustling and warm atmosphere as the roadside stalls and local food vendors lining the street attract the masses of tourists and locals. Selling everything ranging from inexpensive fashion to delicious street food, you’ll definitely enjoy the lively atmosphere and bargaining experience here! 

Day 3: Hanoi to Halong Bay

Today you’ll head from Hanoi to Halong City, which is a 3-hour drive away or four hour bus ride. If you’re taking the bus, you can head to Hanoi Gia Lam bus station to purchase tickets for the journey to Mien Tay bus station in Bai Chay (Halong City).

No visit to Vietnam will be complete without conquering Halong Bay! From kayaking around the  myriad of islets and grottos to visiting a cave, there’s plenty to do around this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Keeping in mind that we only have one day here, we recommend firstly, getting on board a cruise from Halong City to explore the best of the area. 

On your tour, you might pass by Sung Sot Cave, one of the most famous caves in Northern Vietnam! Also meaning Surprised Cave, Sung Sot Cave is located on Bo Hon Island and is one of the most magnificent grottoes of Halong Bay. With two partitions in the cave housing stalactites and stalagmites that are over a 100,000 years old as well as a ‘royal garden’ with a clear pond, visitors will definitely be amazed by the beauty of Mother Nature. 

Another amazing attraction you might pass by is Ba Hang Fishing Village, one of the four floating fishing villages in Halong Bay. Here, admire the rustic and well-preserved fishing village and witness the fishermen’s simple way of life. A small and close-knitted community, Ba Hang Village is home to only approximately 50 families, who rely on fishing as their main source of income. 

Finally, one of the most popular activities that tourists enjoy doing is kayaking in Halong Bay! What better way to explore the islands than to kayak? Enjoy the gorgeous views and remember to take selfies!

Day 4: Halong Bay to Da Nang

Getting to Da Nang from Halong Bay takes slightly over an hour by flight, as compared to 16 hours by car, so book your flight for greater convenience! 

Upon arriving in modern and vibrant Da Nang, you’ll be greeted by the gentle sea breeze as you step foot into this beautiful coastal city, known for its mesmerizing sandy beaches and history as a French colonial port. 

One does not simply visit Da Nang without visiting the Marble Mountains, a mystical cluster of five marble and limestone hills located south of Da Nang city. One of Da Nang’s most popular tourist attractions, the marble mountains are named after the elements metal, wood, fire, water and earth and is certainly worth checking out!

Within this area, there are also a host of Buddhist sanctuaries, pagoda temples and even a special circular cave, consisting of a chimney leading to the summit, with unbelievable panoramic views. Definitely the best photography location and a cultural gem! 

You must be tired after hours of exploring the Marble Mountains. From there, head down to one of Da Nang’s most idyllic beaches, My Khe Beach. Deemed by some as the most picturesque beach in Da Nang, My Khe Beach is famous for its majestically blue sky, clean white sand and clear sea. 

With the lack of large waves and warm water all year round, it’s the perfect place for an afternoon swim, surf session or even some paddle-boarding! It’s no wonder that My Khe Beach has been commended as one of the ten most popular beaches in Asia. Whether you decide to try some watersports or simply be a beach bum, you’re bound to enjoy My Khe Beach in its full glory. 

As many have said, Da Nang is most impressive at night. After dinner, take a stroll by the Dragon’s Bridge situated in the city centre and marvel at the large and magnificent dragon that the entire bridge is designed to be. Not only is the bridge beautifully lit up at night, if you’re there over the weekends, you’ll get to enjoy an exciting show of the dragon spitting fire. 

Day 5: Da Nang

Good morning! After breakfast, kickstart your day by visiting Han Market, for an extremely local shopping experience. Unlike major cities in the world, Da Nang might not have impressive malls and international or high street brands; but if you’re looking for handsewn clothing, handicrafts and local produce, this is the right place! If you are hungry, head to the indoor food court and savour the local Vietnamese dishes such as crispy pancakes and Vietnamese spring rolls, which will cost you no more than VND 30000! (~S$1.80!) 

After lunch, brace yourself for an adrenaline-filled afternoon at Sun World Asia Park, Da Nang’s renowned amusement park consisting of a massive Ferris wheel and plenty of family-friendly rides! 

After a thrilling afternoon, grab some dinner and take a stroll by the Han River Bridge, Vietnam’s very first swing bridge! Here, you can admire the night view of Da Nang, whilst taking in the beauty of the bridge by night. Remember to snap some pictures! If you’re up for some nightlife, head down to Sky 36 for a luxurious entertainment experience, as well as panoramic views of Da Nang from up above. A famous bar located in the Hai Chau district, enjoy the amazing live performances besides drinking and dancing. 

Day 6: Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh

Your Vietnam trip will not be complete without visiting Ho Chi Minh City (also commonly known as Saigon), a city in Southern Vietnam famous for its pivotal role it played in the Vietnam War! 

Upon reaching Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), head to Ben Thanh Market, a large marketplace right in the heart of HCMC. With everything you could ever want ranging from local handicrafts and Vietnamese souvenirs to branded goods and an array of delectable dishes, you will definitely leave this market with your bellies full and hearts satisfied. 

Next, visit the War Remnants Museum, that contains exhibits relating to the Vietnam War. Formally known as the ‘Museum of American War Crimes’, it offers a shocking reminder of the long and brutal Vietnam war, through the weapons, documentaries and exhibitions showcased. One of the most commonly discussed exhibits are the ‘tiger cages’ which the South Vietnamese government used to keep the political prisoners, so keep your eyes peeled for them.

Afterwhich, catch a glimpse of the Saigon Central Post Office, located just metres from the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica. Constructed in the 19th century when Vietnam was still part of French Indochina, it is a beautifully preserved remnant of French colonial times and arguably one of the grandest post offices in Southeast Asia. Here, you can choose to post a postcard to your friends and family or simply snap photographs of its charming European style architecture. 

After dinner, head to HCMC’s most fashionable rooftop bar, Chill Skybar, for a fantastic night out. Situated on the 25th floor of AB Tower,  it is one of HCMC’s finest bars boasting drinks and dining complete with spectacular performances. Guests from all over the world gather here for a night of world-class entertainment and stunning views of downtown Saigon, so you’ll definitely make international friends if you visit! 

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City to Singapore

Rise and shine! Today is your last day of your Vietnam adventure. If you’re not pressed for time, we recommend taking a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, situated slightly more than an hour’s drive away from HCMC. You can get there by taxi or the public bus as both options are extremely convenient. 

Currently part of a huge war museum, the Cu Chi tunnels are an immense network of underground tunnels; and most importantly, where military campaigns were held during the Vietnam War. To get a glimpse of what the underground life of Vietnamese soldiers back in 1948 was like, try crawling through the tiny underground tunnels! With more than 120 kilometres of underground tunnels complete with trap doors, living areas, kitchens, storage spaces and even hospitals, you’ll definitely be fascinated! 

However, if you don’t have much time before your flight, we suggest heading to 42 Nguyen Hue Street as your final destination! An abandoned building turned into a shopping centre in HCMC, this quaint building is an absolute hidden gem! Housing a wide array of shops ranging from trendy boutiques to white-washed minimalist cafes, this is truly every hipster and cafe lover’s paradise. 

With so much to see and do, Vietnam is definitely on every traveller’s bucket list. Boasting stunning views, cheap buys and undeniably tasty food, there’s just so much to discover and fall in love with!

 All hyped up to visit Vietnam now? Book your flights with your UOB Card, and kickstart your pho-bulous adventure today!

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Vietnam Itinerary for 7 Days: Your Ideal Holiday

Let’s be honest, 7 days in Vietnam -a country with thousands of years of history, abundant UNESCO World Heritage Sites and breathtaking scenery that spans its 3,000-kilometre length- is not enough. However, if a 7-day trip to Vietnam is all you have, then you can cover the country’s major destinations. You’ll leave with an established love for its land, people and culture, with a promise to yourself that you’ll return – that, we are sure of. 

A 7-day Vietnam tour will introduce you to a plethora of Vietnam’s charms, from mountains to ocean, valleys to rice fields and major cities to local villages. Vietnam is a well-connected country; if you’re short on time, train, road and air travel routes enable you to move quickly and easily through the country, spending a night or two in each destination. 

To get the full Vietnam experience in 7 days, read on to discover this ‘7-Day Vietnam at a Glance’ itinerary. 

Post Contents

Day 1: Welcome to Hanoi

Day 2: journey to halong bay, day 3: more cruising, back to hanoi & street food tour, day 4: fly to ho chi minh city, day 5: cu chi tunnels & ho chi minh city tour, day 6: a day trip to the mekong delta, day 7: your vietnam travel itinerary of 7 days comes to an end, north vietnam, south vietnam, vietnam & cambodia, ho chi minh city, central vietnam, travel insurance for your 7-day vietnam trip, want to create your own vietnam travel itinerary, vietnam itinerary: 7 day overview.

‘Vietnam at a Glance’ is the perfect option for those that want to experience the real Vietnam but are short on time. This 7-day tour of Vietnam begins in the capital city of Hanoi, a city with a 1,000-year history and the hub of Vietnamese culture and cuisine. 

Moving on, you’ll spend a night floating between limestone karsts in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay on an overnight cruise. Mid-way through the trip, you’ll jet off down to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s southern metropolis. Here, you’ll spend the remainder of your 7 days exploring the city formerly known as ‘Saigon’ and the rice bowl of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta.

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Hanoi is the starting point of your 7-day itinerary. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your guide at the airport and be given a brief introduction to the city en route to your hotel. You’ll then have the rest of the day free to explore the Old Quarter on your own, or if you prefer, a tour can be arranged. 

At the centre of the vibrant city, Hanoi’s Old Quarter dates back to the Imperial era of Vietnam. It showcases the country’s history perfectly through its plentiful beautiful architecture, street food choices and more. 

Today, the Old Quarter is a thriving hotspot for travellers where you can sample local dishes, meet friendly locals and tick off iconic scenes on your Vietnam bucket list. 

Today you’ll wake up refreshed and eager to see more of Vietnam. If you were to choose to do a 7-day North Vietnam itinerary , you could spend longer in Hanoi before jetting off to your next destination, but to see more of Vietnam, you’ll head off to Halong Bay . 

The 170-kilometre journey will take you through the Red River Delta, past Vietnamese farmers tending to their vast green paddy fields to Halong City, where you’ll board your junk. Here, your journey on the water begins as you dine on fresh seafood while you sail out into the mystical bay. 

The afternoon will be spent on bamboo rowing boats exploring the traditional fishing village of Vung Vieng. You’ll also have the chance to kayak to Ban Chan Island before returning to your junk for happy hour cocktails and dinner. 

What better way to begin your day than on the top deck of your junk doing a Tai Chi class with the peaceful view of Halong Bay?

After your class and a light breakfast, it will be time to jump on the rowing boats once again and explore Cung Do Island where you’ll find Thien Canh Son Cave, the largest in the bay. Disembarking your little boat, you’ll ascend the 100 steps into a cave that is filled with glistening stalactites. 

Back on your junk, you’ll admire the magnificent limestone formations of Bai Tu Long Bay during brunch as you sail back to the mainland and head back to Hanoi. Once in Hanoi, you’ll go straight out on a street food tour to discover one of many local markets and taste a variety of popular Northern Vietnamese dishes.

Today, you’ll say goodbye to Hanoi and the north of Vietnam as you board your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Upon arrival, you’ll be once again met by your guide and taken to your hotel.

Based in the city centre, you’ll then have the rest of the day free to explore this vibrant city that buzzes with over 8.5 million motorbikes! Straight away, you’ll notice the differences between the north and south of Vietnam. If you were to choose a 7-day South Vietnam itinerary , you would begin your trip in this city. 

Between the beeping horns and bright lights, you’ll find grand hotels and staggering skyscrapers juxtaposed with street food stalls which have been set up on the same spot for decades and coffee shops squeezed into tiny spaces. Despite being a rapidly growing city, Ho Chi Minh City seems to maintain its local charm. 

Just an hour from the city, you’ll find the labyrinth of tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam-American War. The Cu Chi Tunnels stretched over 200 kilometres. In some parts, the tunnels were several levels deep, contained trap doors, living areas, storage facilities and more. 

You’ll be guided around the park learning about how these tunnels played a fundamental role in the war, and you’ll have the chance to experience them first hand with an optional walk through a stretch of the tunnels.

Upon returning to the city, you’ll head out with your local guide on a tour of the principal monuments and buildings. Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office are two examples of the elegant classical French colonial architecture that you’ll witness in the city. You’ll also visit the War Remnants Museum and bring your tour to an end in the bustling Ben Thanh Market, a great place to have dinner. 

Often referred to as the ‘Rice Bowl of Vietnam’, the Mekong Delta is famous as a land of agriculture, cultivation and local villages, producing a majority of the country’s staples – rice and coconuts. 

Today, you’ll travel out of the city to explore this region. Hopping onto a long-tail boat, you’ll spend the first part of the day cruising through various local craft villages, learning how to make rice paper, coconut candy and coconut souvenirs. Next, you’ll have the option to hop on a tuk-tuk or to take a 3-kilometre bicycle ride alongside the river to visit the fruit orchards and to have lunch at a local ancient house. 

In the late afternoon, you’ll head back to Ho Chi Minh City for your final evening. Your guide can provide recommendations of rooftop restaurants, top street food spots, and the best markets to enjoy your last evening meal. 

Depending on your flight departure time, you’ll have some free time to do some last-minute sightseeing or shopping before your driver escorts you to the airport. 

See the full Vietnam Itinerary 7 days here . 

Alternative Vietnam Itineraries for 7 Days

Not everyone is looking for a whistle-stop tour from north to south, or vice versa, through Vietnam. You may want to embark on a tour that solely revolves around the cuisine of Vietnam, a cycling tour or even a tour only by public transport. Whatever the case, your ideal 7-day Vietnam itinerary will undoubtedly be different from someone else’s. 

Here are some alternative routes for 7 days in Vietnam;

Discover the wonders of Sapa, Ninh Binh and more on this North Vietnam itinerary of 7 days .

See what wonders the cycling trails of the Mekong Delta have in store for you on this South Vietnam itinerary of 7 days . 

Explore two countries in a short space of time on this Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary tailored to 7 days .

Customise this river and city trip to explore the wonders of Ho Chi Minh City on a 7-day itinerary . 

A week in Vietnam itinerary may take the form of heading straight to the centre of the country and exploring the cities of Da Nang, Hue, Hoi An and Dong Hoi. 

Whether you’re embarking on a Vietnam itinerary of 7 days from India, Australia or any other country in the world for that matter, it is strongly recommended that you have travel insurance. 

Anything could happen on your trip, so make sure you’re covered.

Create your perfect itinerary for Vietnam by connecting with one of our Local Designers in Vietnam . With years upon years of experience, our Local Designers take your budget, travel style and interests to tailor a trip to suit you. 

Design your 7-day tour of Vietnam from scratch with one of our Local Designers or customise one of our trips to Vietnam or any one of our other 59 countries by browsing the destination galleries. 

Grace Homer

At my desk, you'll find me tapping out inspiring adventures, finessing incredible trips designed by Local Designers and focussing on all things content. Having lived in Southeast Asia between Vietnam and Bali for three years, I'm now keeping toasty with a cuppa in a little English town planning future adventures for which I have constant inspiration. Offline, there's nothing I enjoy more than long cycle rides, fueling the foodie in me and seeking out new spots - preferably all at the same time. Find me on LinkedIn or Instagram and keep an eye out for travel inspiration here!

Vietnam Itinerary – 10 Days for Every Traveller

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