Ultimate One-Month Vietnam Backpacking Itinerary: North to South

A journey through Vietnam is a rite of passage for backpackers. With a month at your disposal, you can truly immerse yourself in this country’s incredible landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the misty mountains of the north to the bustling cities and tranquil deltas of the south, this is a trip of a lifetime. This itinerary is your comprehensive guide to planning the ultimate one-month Vietnam backpacking adventure, designed for those seeking a perfect balance of iconic sights and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Essential Tips Before You Go

Before you even book your flight, it’s crucial to get the basics right. A good plan will ensure your trip runs smoothly and allows you to focus on the adventure.

Explore Hanoi’s peaceful lakes, bustling streets, and incredible food scene.

Best Time to Visit: Due to Vietnam’s long, narrow shape, the weather varies by region. The best time to travel the entire country is from February to April and August to October, when the weather is generally pleasant nationwide.
Visa & Entry Requirements: Most nationalities require a visa for a stay of more than 15 days. For a month-long trip, you’ll need a single-entry e-visa, which you can apply for online.
Backpacking Budget: Vietnam is incredibly affordable. A reasonable budget for a month-long backpacking trip ranges from $800 to $1,200 USD, covering accommodation in hostels, local food, and transport. This budget does not include expensive tours or flights.
Getting Around: Vietnam’s transport network is efficient and cheap.
- Open Bus: The most popular option for backpackers, offering flexible tickets between major cities.
- Train: A scenic, comfortable way to travel long distances, especially on the North-South line.
- Motorbike: The ultimate backpacking experience. You can buy or rent a bike and ride the length of the country, though this requires skill and caution.
- Flights: Use budget airlines like VietJet Air and Bamboo Airways to save time on long routes.

Your One-Month Vietnam Backpacking Itinerary

This itinerary follows the classic North-to-South route, which is the most common and logical way to travel the country. It balances travel time with in-depth exploration, ensuring you don’t feel rushed.

1.North Vietnam: History, Culture & Highlands (Days 1-10)

Your adventure begins in the north, a region of ancient traditions and breathtaking natural beauty.

Hanoi (Days 1-4)

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a solemn monument in Hanoi, housing the body of Ho Chi Minh.

Start your trip in the chaotic yet charming capital city. Dedicate your first days to exploring the Old Quarter on foot, getting lost in the narrow streets, and trying the incredible street food. Visit the Hoan Kiem Lake, see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and enjoy a traditional water puppet show. Hanoi is your gateway to the north.

Getting to Hanoi: Fly into Noi Bai International Airport (HAN). Book a hostel in the Old Quarter to be in the center of the action.

Ha Long Bay (Days 5-6)

Cruise through emerald waters and explore the stunning caves of Ha Long Bay.

Book an overnight cruise to truly experience the majestic karsts of Ha Long Bay. Most cruises include kayaking, a visit to a cave, and delicious seafood meals. Alternatively, you can head to the less-crowded Cat Ba Island for a more active and adventurous stay.

Getting to Halong Bay: Book a cruise package from Hanoi. Transportation to and from Ha Long Bay is usually included.

Sapa (Days 7-10)

Trek through scenic rice fields to Ta Van Village for a true cultural immersion.

Take an overnight bus or train to this mountainous town. Sapa is a trekking paradise. Hike through stunning rice terraces and visit local villages like Ta Van or Lao Chai. You’ll get to meet the ethnic minority people and learn about their unique culture, a truly authentic experience.

Getting to Sapa: For Sapa, you can take a convenient overnight bus or a popular sleeper train from Hanoi.

2. Central Vietnam: History, Lanterns & Beaches (Days 11-20)

The central region is a beautiful mix of history, stunning coastline, and delicious food.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (Days 11-13)

Explore Phong Nha’s massive caves, a UNESCO world heritage site.

Take a bus from Hanoi to Phong Nha. This national park is home to some of the world’s largest caves. Go on a tour of the famous Paradise Cave or the dark caves. This is a must for any adventurous backpacker.

Getting to Phong Nha- Ke Bang National Park: Take a sleeper train or bus from Ha Long Bay to Dong Hoi, then a short bus ride to Phong Nha.

Hue (Days 14-16)

Hue is Vietnam’s former imperial capital, home to the magnificent Imperial City.

Travel by train or bus to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. Explore the Imperial City, a vast citadel with palaces and shrines. You can rent a motorbike and take a scenic ride to see the stunning royal tombs scattered along the Perfume River.

Getting to Hue: Take a sleeper train or bus from Phong Nha to Hue.

Da Nang (Days 17-19)

Located in Da Nang, My Khe Beach offers clear water and soft sand perfect for swimming.

A quick train or bus ride will take you to this modern, lively city with a beautiful coastline. Spend a day exploring the Marble Mountains and relax on My Khe Beach. Da Nang serves as a great base to explore the region.

Getting to Hue: Travel from Hue to Da Nang by train, bus, or a thrilling motorbike ride.

Hoi An (Days 20-22)

The enchanting town of Hoi An is famous for its colorful lanterns and ancient streets.

Just a short taxi ride from Da Nang, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a traveler’s favorite. Wander through the ancient town, which comes alive at night with thousands of glowing lanterns. Take a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes or get a custom-made suit or dress.

Getting to Hoi An: From Da Nang is a quick and easy trip by taxi or bus.

3. South Vietnam: Bustling Cities & The Delta (Days 23-30)

Da Lat or Phu Quoc (Days 23-26)

Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Da Lat offers a cool, romantic escape.

You have two options. You can fly to Phu Quoc Island for a two days of relaxation on the beach, or you can head to Da Lat for some cool mountain air.

Getting to Da Lat: Fly from Da Nang to Da Lat to save time, or take bus.

Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta (Days 27-30)

The War Remnants Museum is a powerful look at the human cost of the Vietnam War.

Take a short flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City. This energetic city, still known as Saigon to locals, offers a fantastic mix of history and modern life. Visit the War Remnants Museum, explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, and experience the chaotic nightlife on Bui Vien Street.

Getting to Ho Chi Minh city & Mekong Delta: A short flight or overnight bus from Da Lat.

Mekong Delta

Explore floating markets and lush rice paddies on a serene boat trip through the Delta.

From Ho Chi Minh City, take a bus or join a tour to the Mekong Delta. This trip is a journey into the “rice bowl of Vietnam,” with floating markets, winding rivers, and lush green rice paddies. Take a boat trip and try the fresh tropical fruits and a completely different vibe before flying home from either destination.

Getting to Mekong Delta: Book a 1-2 day tour from Ho Chi Minh City.

Key transportation and Safety Tips

Start your day in Vietnam with a tasty banh mi and sweet iced milk coffee.

Accommodation: Hostels are the backbone of backpacking culture. They are cheap, sociable, and a great place to meet other travelers. Homestays are also a fantastic option for a more local experience.
Food and Drink: Vietnam is a culinary paradise. Stick to popular street food stalls where you see a lot of locals eating. Be adventurous and try local specialties like Pho, Banh Mi, and Bun Cha. Always drink bottled water.
Motorbike Safety: If you choose to ride a motorbike, drive defensively and assume no one will follow the rules. Always wear a helmet.
Scams to Avoid: Be aware of common scams like taxi overcharging. Use ride-hailing apps like Grab for clear pricing. Always negotiate prices with vendors before buying anything.

A one-month backpacking trip through Vietnam is a transformative experience. From the serene highlands to the vibrant cities and peaceful deltas, this journey gives you an incredible insight into a country of immense beauty and resilient people. This itinerary is your roadmap, but the real adventure begins when you embrace the unexpected and follow your own curiosity. So, get ready for the trip of a lifetime, where every day promises a new discovery.