A 10-day adventure is the perfect length to soak in the country’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From bustling cities and ancient towns to breathtaking natural wonders, this Vietnam itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable journey, crafted to help first-timers maximize their experience.
Why Choose a 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary?
Ten days in Vietnam strikes an ideal balance. It’s long enough to cover key highlights in both the North and South (or Central, depending on your focus) without feeling rushed, yet concise enough to fit into most vacation schedules. You’ll get a taste of everything: delicious street food, ancient temples, stunning natural beauty, and the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality.
Preparing for Your 10-Day Vietnam Adventure
Before we dive into the daily breakdown, here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth trip:
Visa Requirements: Most nationalities require a visa for Vietnam. Check the latest requirements well in advance. An e-visa or visa on arrival (with a pre-approval letter) are common options.
When to Go: Vietnam experiences different weather patterns across its regions.
- North (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay): October to April for cooler, drier weather. During the months of May to September, it’s often hot, damp, and wet.
- Central (Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang): January through August generally sees pleasant, dry, and sunny days. September to December can see heavy rains and typhoons.
- South (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta): December to April is dry and hot. The rainy season, characterized by brief but intense showers, runs from May to November.
- For a 10-day trip covering multiple regions, February to April or October/November often offer the most favorable weather across the country.
Currency: The Vietnamese Dong (VND) serves as the country’s official monetary unit. ATMs are widely available in major cities. Credit cards are accepted in many hotels and larger restaurants, but cash is essential for local markets and street food.
Getting Around:
- Flights: The quickest way to travel between distant cities (e.g., Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, or Hanoi to Da Nang). Domestic flights are frequently operated by carriers such as Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways.
- Trains: A scenic and comfortable option for longer distances (e.g., Hanoi to Da Nang).
- Buses: Budget-friendly for shorter inter-city travel.
- Taxis/Ride-hailing: Grab (similar to Uber) is very popular and convenient in cities.
- Motorbike/Scooter: A popular local way to get around, but requires caution and an international driving permit.
Packing Essentials: Lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and a universal adapter.
Safety & Health: Drink bottled water. Be mindful of traffic. Consider travel insurance. Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations.
Your Classic 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary: North to South Immersion
This itinerary is designed for first-time visitors seeking a comprehensive experience of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – The Heart of Vietnam’s Capital
- Morning/Afternoon: Land at Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), then proceed to your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Begin exploring the charming Old Quarter. Wander through its narrow streets, each traditionally dedicated to a specific trade.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Water Puppet Show – a unique Vietnamese art form.
- Dinner: Indulge in authentic Hanoi street food – try Phở (beef noodle soup), Bún Chả (grilled pork with noodles), or Bánh Mì (Vietnamese baguette sandwich).
- Overnight: Hanoi.
Day 2: Hanoi’s Historical & Cultural Gems
- Morning: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex (check opening hours) and the adjacent One Pillar Pagoda. Discover the peaceful Temple of Literature, which was Vietnam’s inaugural national university.
- Afternoon: Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, a central landmark. Visit Ngoc Son Temple on the island. Consider a cyclo (pedicab) ride around the Old Quarter.
- Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Ta Hien Street (Beer Street).
- Overnight: Hanoi.
Day 3: Mystical Ha Long Bay – UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Morning: Take an early morning shuttle bus from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay (approx. 2.5-3.5 hours drive via expressway).
- Noon: Board a traditional junk boat or cruise ship. Indulge in a delightful seafood meal as your boat glides over the jade-colored sea, studded with myriad limestone pillars and landmasses.
- Afternoon: Participate in activities like kayaking through hidden lagoons, swimming, or exploring a magnificent cave like Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave).
- Evening: Enjoy dinner on board. Take in the sunset, try squid fishing, or simply relax under the stars.
- Overnight: Onboard cruise in Ha Long Bay.
Day 4: Ha Long Bay & Flight to Da Nang (Hoi An)
- Morning: Wake up early for a spectacular sunrise over the bay. Enjoy breakfast and continue cruising, perhaps visiting another island or a floating village.
- Late Morning: Disembark and transfer back to Hanoi.
- Afternoon: Head straight to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for a domestic flight to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) (approx. 1.5 hours flight).
- Evening: Upon arrival in Da Nang, take a short taxi ride to Hoi An Ancient Town (approx. 45 minutes). Check into your hotel.
- Overnight: Hoi An.
Day 5: Hoi An Ancient Town – Lantern-Lit Charm
- Morning:Take a walking or cycling tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Hoi An Ancient Town.Highlights include the Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and a well-preserved ancient residence.
- Afternoon: Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes like Cao Lầu or White Rose dumplings. You could also opt for a delightful basket boat trip through the coconut forest.
- Evening: Witness the magical glow of thousands of lanterns illuminating the town. Enjoy a riverside dinner.
- Overnight: Hoi An.
Day 7: Flight to Ho Chi Minh City – Southern Metropolis
- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Hoi An. Transfer to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) for your flight to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City (approx. 1.5 hours flight).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel. Begin exploring Ho Chi Minh City. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral (currently under renovation but impressive from outside) and the historic Central Post Office.
- Evening: Experience the bustling atmosphere of Bui Vien Street (backpacker area) or enjoy a sophisticated dinner in District 1.
- Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City – History & Resilience
- Morning: Take a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. This provides a moving understanding of Vietnam’s past.
- Afternoon: Explore the War Remnants Museum, which provides a powerful and often graphic look at the war. Next, explore the Reunification Palace, previously known as the Presidential Palace.
- Evening: Enjoy a Saigon street food tour or dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying Bánh Xèo (savory pancake) or Gỏi Cuốn (fresh spring rolls).
- Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 9: Mekong Delta – The Rice Bowl of Vietnam
- Full Day Trip: Embark on a day trip to the Mekong Delta. The My Tho – Ben Tre region is a frequently chosen destination.
- Activities: Take a boat trip along the Mekong River, visit local workshops producing coconut candy and rice paper, enjoy fresh tropical fruits, listen to traditional Vietnamese folk music, and paddle a small sampan boat through narrow canals.
- Lunch: Savor local Mekong Delta cuisine, often including “Elephant Ear Fish” (Cá Tai Tượng Chiên Xù).
- Evening: Return to Ho Chi Minh City.
- Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City Departure
- Morning: Depending on your flight schedule, you can do some last-minute souvenir shopping at Ben Thanh Market or visit a local coffee shop for a final taste of Vietnamese coffee.
- Afternoon: Transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) for your departure flight, carrying memories of your incredible 10-day journey through Vietnam.
Alternative Itinerary Focuses for 10 Days:
While the North-to-South route is classic, you can customize your 10 days based on your interests:
- Northern Focus: Spend more time in Hanoi, take an overnight trip to Sapa (for trekking and ethnic minority culture) or Ninh Binh (for landscapes like Tam Coc/Trang An, often called “Ha Long Bay on land”).
- Southern Focus: Deep dive into Ho Chi Minh City, spend more time in the Mekong Delta (perhaps an overnight stay), and add a beach escape to Phu Quoc Island or Mui Ne.
- Central Focus: Explore Hoi An, Hue, and Da Nang in depth, including the Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (for caves like Son Doong), or relaxing on the coast.
Estimated 10-Day Vietnam Trip Cost (per person, excluding international flights):
- Budget (backpacking): $400 – $700 (Hostels, street food, local transport, basic tours)
- Mid-range: Between $700 and $1,500 (covers 3-star lodging, various dining options, internal airfare, and guided excursions).
- Luxury: $1,500+ (4-5 star hotels/resorts, fine dining, private transfers, premium tours/cruises)
These are estimates and can vary greatly depending on your travel style, booking in advance, and personal spending habits.
Vietnam is a nation that enchants visitors with its stunning landscapes, enduring spirit, and welcoming nature. This 10-day itinerary is designed to give you a well-rounded and enriching experience, but remember to be flexible and open to spontaneous discoveries. Engage with the locals, savor every meal, and embrace the vibrant chaos and serene beauty that define this remarkable land.
