Planning your first trip to Vietnam can be overwhelming with so many incredible destinations to choose from. This 10-day Vietnam itinerary is designed to hit the “Big Five” highlights: the historic charm of Hanoi, the emerald waters of Halong Bay, the dramatic peaks of Ninh Binh, the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, and the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City.
For a first-time visitor, a 10-day trip should focus on a North-to-South route. Start in Hanoi for cultural immersion, take a 2-day cruise in Halong Bay, explore the “Halong Bay on Land” in Ninh Binh, fly to Central Vietnam for the magical atmosphere of Hoi An, and conclude with the modern history and Mekong Delta flavors of Ho Chi Minh City.
At a Glance: 10-Day Vietnam Highlights
- Day 1-2: Hanoi – Old Quarter, Street Food, and Temple of Literature.
- Day 3-4: Halong Bay – Overnight cruise among limestone karsts.
- Day 5: Ninh Binh – Boat tours in Trang An and Mua Caves.
- Day 6-8: Hoi An – Ancient Town, tailoring, and My Son Sanctuary.
- Day 9-10: Ho Chi Minh City – War Remnants Museum and Mekong Delta.
Day 1-2: Hanoi – The Cultural Heart
Arrive in Hanoi, a city where ancient temples sit alongside French colonial architecture. Spend your first afternoon wandering the 36 streets of the Old Quarter. Don’t miss the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, and a traditional Water Puppet Show in the evening.
On Day 2, dive into the local food scene. Try Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles) or a steaming bowl of Phở. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the serene West Lake.
Transport: Private airport transfer or Grab (approx. $15 USD).
Day 3-4: Halong Bay – A Natural Wonder
Travel 170km east to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Halong Bay. Board a luxury cruise for an overnight journey. You will sail past thousands of limestone islets, visit hidden caves like Sung Sot (Surprise Cave), and enjoy kayaking in the emerald waters. Watching the sunset from the deck is a quintessential Vietnam experience.
Transport: Shuttle bus from Hanoi (2.5 – 3 hours via the new highway).
Day 5: Ninh Binh – The Inland Majesty
Known as “Halong Bay on land,” Ninh Binh offers breathtaking scenery. Take a traditional sampan boat ride through the Trang An Landscape Complex, passing through limestone grottoes. Later, climb the 500 steps of Mua Caves for a panoramic view of the Tam Coc rice fields.
Transport: Private car or limousine bus from Halong or Hanoi (2-3 hours).
Day 6-8: Hoi An – The City of Lanterns
Fly from Hanoi to Da Nang, then take a short drive to Hoi An Ancient Town. This yellow-hued town is famous for its Japanese Covered Bridge, tailor shops, and night markets glowing with silk lanterns. On Day 7, take a half-day trip to the My Son Sanctuary, a cluster of abandoned Hindu temples. Spend Day 8 relaxing at An Bang Beach or cycling through the vegetable villages.
Transport: Domestic flight (1.5 hours) + 30-minute car ride.
Day 9-10: Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta
Fly south to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon). Start with the War Remnants Museum and the Independence Palace to learn about Vietnam’s modern history. On your final full day, head to the Mekong Delta. Experience life on the water with a boat trip through narrow canals, visit local coconut candy workshops, and enjoy the lush tropical scenery.
Transport: Domestic flight (1.5 hours); Day tour via bus to Mekong.
Essential Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: October to April offers the most pleasant weather nationwide (18°C – 28°C).
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). $1 USD is approximately 25,000 VND.
- Connectivity: Buy a local 4G SIM card at the airport for about $10 USD.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 10 days enough for Vietnam?
Yes, 10 days is the perfect duration for a “highlights” tour covering the major cities from North to South. While you won’t see everything, you will experience the most iconic landmarks comfortably.
How do I get between cities in Vietnam?
For long distances (Hanoi to Da Nang or Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City), domestic flights are the most efficient. For shorter trips like Hanoi to Halong Bay, luxury limousine vans are the best balance of price and comfort.
Do I need a visa for Vietnam?
Many nationalities require an E-visa, which can be applied for online. It usually takes 3-5 working days to process and costs $25 USD. Always check the official government portal for your specific country’s requirements.
Ready to explore the S-shaped land? Book your tour now to experience the best of Vietnam without the stress of planning!
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