The Perfect 10 Day Vietnam Itinerary for 2024

Ready to dive into the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and mouth-watering cuisine of Vietnam? This is the ultimate 10 day Vietnam itinerary for your trip, and it includes all the best spots in the country and more.

Whether you’re dreaming of vibrant cities, beautiful rice terraces, or sun-soaked beaches, you’ll love your time in the country.

This thoughtfully designed itinerary for Vietnam takes you on a journey through the country’s iconic destinations, all while immersing you in the local way of life.

I personally spent over 8 months traveling around Vietnam, and I know the best places to visit for your trip.

From Hanoi to Halong Bay to ancient Hoi An, without skipping Ho Chi Minh City, this trip will easily become one for the books. Let’s get started, I can’t wait to tell you more!

10 Day Vietnam Itinerary: Overview

Before going through all the details and itinerary day by day, here’s an overview, as well as some questions you may have as a first-timer.

• Day 1 & 2: Hanoi
• Day 3: Ha Long Bay
• Day 4: Ninh Binh
• Day 5: Da Nang and Marble Mountains
• Day 6: Hue – The Imperial City
• Day 7 and 8: Hoi An and My Son Sanctuary
• Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 10: Day Tour to Cu Chi Tunnels

Alternative Itinerary for Vietnam

In case you’re not interest in some spots, here’s an alternative itinerary you can consider, which still offers a nice mix of culture, landscapes, and city vibes.

• Day 1 & 2: Hanoi
• Day 3 and 4: Sapa
• Day 5 and 6: Da Nang and Marble Mountains
• Day 7 and 8: Hoi An and My Son Sanctuary
• Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 10: Day Tour to Cu Chi Tunnels

Are 10 Days in Vietnam Enough?

Ten days in Vietnam is just enough to see the most-visit places in Vietnam. Sure, it’s not enough to see everything (is it ever?), but it’s perfect for hitting the highlights and getting a taste of the diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures.

From the chaotic charm of Hanoi and the ancient streets of Hoi An to the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay, you’ll get a solid snapshot. It’s all about smart planning to make those 10 days count!

Where to Start a Trip in Vietnam?

I recommend starting your trip in Vietnam in Hanoi and then traveling all the way down to Ho Chi Minh City. Hanoi is the heart and soul of Vietnam, brimming with a rich history, bustling street markets, and an unbeatable culinary scene.

Starting here allows you to soak up the northern charm, dive into the depths of Vietnamese culture at the Old Quarter, and marvel at the serene beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake.

Note that Hanoi is quite a chaotic city, but this is exactly what makes it unique and charming at the same time.

What is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam?

Generally, spring (March to April) and fall (September to November) are the best time to visit Vietnam. You’ll enjoy moderate temperatures, less rainfall, and the scenery is just impressive.

Whether you’re cruising through the north, exploring the central gems, or lounging in the south, these seasons promise great weather for adventure and exploration, making your trip nothing short of amazing.

How to Get Around in Vietnam?

Getting around Vietnam is pretty straightforward and you can either join a guided tour in the bigger cities or call a Grab taxi, which is the Asian equivalent to Uber.

I personally like to book day tours in Vietnam as I get to learn a lot from the guides and it makes the day out so much more convenient, but if you travel on a budget, then taxis are a good options.

For getting from one city to another, domestic flights are the best, which Air Asia and Bamboo Airlines being professional and comfortable, and I had a great time with both.

To get to Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Sapa, or other spots slightly out of the main cities, you can get a train or a bus, which are pretty comfortable and cheap.

Lastly, if you have experience, you can rent a motorbike and drive around the city or outside. That being said, the traffic in Vietnam is very chaotic and I don’t recommend driving if you have no experience. Here’s a photo of me going from Da Nang to Hue!

10 Days in Vietnam Itinerary

Now that you have a little more context and know the essentials to kickstart your trip, let’s get right into the ultimate 10-day itinerary for Vietnam, starting in Hanoi.

NOTE: You can also start the trip in Ho Chi Minh City and make your way to the north, that also works.

Day 1 and 2: Hanoi

Imagine stepping into a city where the buzz of motorbikes blends with the aroma of street food at every corner. That’s Hanoi for you – a city where modernity meets tradition in a vibrant way.

Once you land in Hanoi, getting into town is quite straightforward, with plenty of taxis and Grab cars available. Alternatively, you can prebook your shuttle online or reserve it with your hotel.

I recommend starting your day walking through the Old Quarter, you’ll feel the soul of the city. It’s a maze of narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, bars, and vendors selling everything from souvenirs to exquisite local dishes.

Stop by the Temple of Literature, discover the sobering Hoa Lo Prison (also called as the Hanoi Hilton), where prisoners were kept during the Vietnam war, and check out the Tran Quoc Pagoda, a stunning 15-meter high temple dating to 541 AD.

Of course, you can’t miss the chance to sip on Vietnamese coffee at a street-side café, watching life go by.

On the following day, set out on a guided tour of the city to explore Hanoi’s rich history, stunning architecture, and lively street life.

The city is home to numerous museums, temples, and historical sites that offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s past and present. Start your day early to beat the crowds and the heat

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex is a must-visit. It’s not just about paying respects to the country’s founding father; the complex’s architecture and the serene atmosphere offer a moment of reflection.

From there, head to the One Pillar Pagoda and the Presidential Palace, both of which are nearby and steeped in history.

For something different, the Hanoi Opera House and the Museum of Ethnology offer cultural insights and performances. As for getting around, Hanoi is relatively compact, so you can cover a lot of ground on foot or by renting a bike. However, for farther sites, taxis are abundant and affordable.

If you want to make the most of your time, you can opt for a guided tour around Hanoi Old Town, which is a great way to learn with an expert local, and you’re in Vietnam, so it’s cheap!

For accommodation, staying in the Old Quarter is your best bet. It’s not only convenient for exploring but also gives you a taste of Hanoi’s vibrant nightlife and rich history. The Hoan Kiem Lake area is particularly popular among tourists for its scenic beauty and proximity to major attractions.

Things to Do in Hanoi

• Explore the Old Quarter: Discover the heart of Hanoi’s culture.
• Visit Hoan Kiem Lake: Experience some peace and quiet from Hanoi’s chaos.
• Enjoy a Vietnamese coffee: Taste the local brew in a street-side café – Egg coffee and salted coffee are a must!
• Try street food: Try pho, banh mi, and more local delicacies.
• Watch a Water Puppet show: Weird and fun at the same time, on the lake.
• Visit the Temple of Literature: Step into Vietnam’s first national university.
• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex: Pay homage to Ho Chi Minh.
• Explore the One Pillar Pagoda: See a pillar of Vietnamese culture.
• Admire the Presidential Palace: Walk through history and beautiful gardens.
• Experience the Hanoi Opera House: Enjoy cultural performances in a historic venue.
• Stroll through the French Quarter: Witness the blend of Vietnamese and French architecture.

Where to Stay in Hanoi

• Luxury: Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel
• Mid-range: Golden Rooster Hotel
• Budget: Cheers Hostel Hanoi

Where to Eat in Hanoi

• Quan An Ngon – A bustling eatery offering a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes from different regions.
• Bun Cha Ta – Famous for Bun Cha, grilled pork over noodles, a Hanoi specialty.
• JW Café at JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi – Offers an extensive buffet with international dishes.
• La Badiane Hanoi – A French restaurant in Hanoi for a blend of French and Vietnamese flavors.
• Ta Hien Street – Known as “Beer Street,” it’s perfect for trying street food and local beer.

Best Tours in Hanoi

Day 3: Take a Halong Bay Cruise

The third day will take you to one of the most popular places in Southeast Asia – Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking limestone karsts and emerald waters.

Numerous tours from Hanoi offer a variety of luxury or budget options, allowing you to choose the perfect Halong Bay cruise to suit your preferences.

Getting there is part of the adventure; it’s about a 3-4 hour drive from Hanoi. You can book a tour or take a shuttle bus, which often includes a cruise package.

Once there, the real magic begins. Cruising through the bay, you’ll pass by towering karsts and floating villages, each turn offering a view more breathtaking than the last. Don’t miss the chance to explore the caves like Sung Sot or Thien Cung, which hide stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations.

If you have a more flexible schedule or can plan a longer trip, then I recommend staying for the night, as you can sleep on the cruise along the bay, and that is a phenomenal experience.

Taking a day trip to Ha Long Bay is pretty affordable, and you can expect to pay around $50 per person including lunch and transportation, and around $150 per person for the one-night cruise, which is a bargain!

Day 4: Head to Ninh Binh For the Day

Ninh Binh is not as popular as Halong Bay or Da Nang and Hoi An, but it’s definitely a must-visit in North Vietnam, and you’ll love the day out!

It’s just a 2-hour drive south of Hanoi, or about 3 hours by train, making it an accessible escape into nature. The best way to explore Ninh Binh is by renting a bike or taking a boat tour along the rivers, navigating through rice paddies and under massive stone arches.

The tranquility of Tam Coc and Trang An, with their river excursions, offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling city life, and that was one of my personal favorite days out in the whole of Vietnam.

If you’re on a tight schedule, joining a day trip from Hanoi is the way to go, though.

Things to Do in Ninh Binh

• Boat trip in Tam Coc: Row through breathtaking limestone caves and rice fields.
• Bike around the countryside: Immerse yourself in Ninh Binh’s natural beauty on two wheels.
• Visit Hoa Lu temples: Explore the ancient capital of Vietnam.
• Climb Mua Cave viewpoint: Enjoy panoramic views of Ninh Binh’s landscape.
• Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda: See one of the largest pagodas in Southeast Asia.
• Enjoy local delicacies: Try goat meat and mountain snails, the region’s specialties.

Where to Eat in Ninh Binh

• Trung Tuyet – A family-run restaurant known for its delicious goat meat dishes, a local specialty.
• Bai Dinh Vegetarian Restaurant – Located near Bai Dinh Pagoda, offering tasty Vietnamese cuisine.
• Chookie’s Beer Garden – A great place for international dishes and a wide selection of beers.
• Tam Coc Garden Restaurant – Offers a peaceful dining experience with views of the surrounding limestone karsts.
• Ninh Binh Market – Explore the local market for a variety of street food options.

Best Tours to Ninh Binh

Day 5: Da Nang and Marble Mountains

Da Nang is yet another vibrant city where modernity meets tradition, nestled along the central Vietnamese coast and with a stunning, massive beach, and this is the first destination in Central Vietnam.

You can get to Da Nang International Airport from Hanoi easily and flights are normally pretty cheap.

While there’s a lot to see in Da Nang, the most spots are the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five marble and limestone hills, the Han Market, the Dragon Bridge (if possible, plan your Da Nang trip on a Saturday to see the show), and the Lady Buddha and the views from it.

If you have more time available, then you can stay on the beach during the afternoon to work on your tan and swim in the water, it’s a stunning place to be!

The beachfront is lined with resorts catering to every comfort, while the city’s culinary scene offers a taste of local and international flavors.

I recommend staying in Da Nang’s international area, My An, which is near the beach and has plenty of food options, as well as a night market, which is always a plus.

Things to Do in Da Nang

• Discover the Marble Mountains: See caves, temples, and incredible views.
• Relax on My Khe Beach: Enjoy the white sands and clear waters of Da Nang.
• Visit the Dragon Bridge: Witness the fire and water show on weekends.
• Explore the Cham Museum: Learn about the Cham people’s ancient culture.
• Enjoy the nightlife: Experience the vibrant bars and night markets of Da Nang.
• Get memories at Han Market: Plenty of options from copy goods to food and souvenirs.

Where to Stay in Da Nang

• Luxury: Danang Marriott Resort & Spa
• Mid-range: Amunra Ocean Hotel
• Budget: Zenta Beach View Hotel

Where to Eat in Da Nang

• Adobo Mexican Grill – Delicious Mexican style food with burritos, rice bowls, tacos and more.
• Roots Plant-based Cafe – Vegan yet incredibly delicious bowls, smoothies, and hummus.
• Emo’s Vietnamese Restaurant – Cheap and succulent Vietnamese food for lunch or dinner.
• Bravo Pizzeria – Easily one of the best pizzas in Da Nang with ingredients coming from Italy.
• Athena Souvlaki – Some of the best Greek restaurants you’ll find in Vietnam.

Best Tours in Da Nang

Day 6: Hue – The Imperial City

Stepping into Hue is like walking through the pages of history, and this is one day out you can’t skip.

This ancient city was the capital of Vietnam for 143 years, and its imperial past lives on through its majestic architecture and serene landscapes. You can get to Hue on a short train or bus ride from Da Nang, offering a journey that showcases Vietnam’s stunning countryside.

The heart of Hue is in the Imperial City, a vast complex where emperors once resided, surrounded by walls and moats. Exploring this World Heritage site, you’ll see palaces, temples, and museums, each telling stories of a bygone era.

Yes, it’s pretty hot inside but it’s worth it, and it was another of my favorite trips on this 10 day Vietnam itinerary. Also, make sure to do the VR experience to see how the ancient city looked like many years ago.

After this, make your way to Thien Mu Pagoda and take a boat ride on the Perfume River, and you’ll get to see the city from a different perspective.

Staying in Hue, you’ll find options ranging from budget hostels to luxurious resorts, many of which are along the river, providing easy access to the city’s historical sites and its popular food options. Note: Food in Hue is famous for being spicy, so keep that in mind.

Alternatively, if you prefer staying in Da Nang as a base and go to Hue as a day trip, you can also book a day tour, which is a convenient option to see the key spots in town.

Things to Do in Hue

• Tour the Imperial City: Step back in time in this historic palace complex.
• Take a Perfume River boat tour: See Hue from its serene waterways.
• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda: Explore this iconic seven-story pagoda.
• Discover the Royal Tombs: Pay respects at the tombs of Nguyen emperors.
• Sample local cuisine: Try Hue’s unique dishes that once catered to royalty.
• Explore the Dong Ba Market: Shop for local handicrafts and specialties.

Where to Stay in Hue

• Luxury: Melia Vinpearl Hue
• Mid-range: Hotel La Perle
• Budget: Maily Hostel

Where to Eat in Hue

• Les Jardins de La Carambole – Serves French and Vietnamese cuisine in a colonial-style villa.
• Nook Eatery – Offers a diverse menu with dishes from around the world, including Vietnamese.
• Ancient Hue Garden Houses – Dine in traditional Hue garden houses for a royal culinary experience.
• Dong Ba Market – The perfect place to explore Hue’s street food scene, including local sweets and snacks.

Best Tours in Hue

Day 7-8: Hoi An

Hoi An in Vietnam is a beautifully preserved ancient town that feels like a step back in time. Its charming streets, lined with historic architecture, colorful lanterns, and the tranquil Thu Bon River, create an atmosphere that’s just magical.

You can get to Hoi An easily by bus or taxi from Da Nang, which is only about 30 minutes away. The best way to get around is on foot or by bicycle, allowing you to soak in its rich cultural heritage at your own pace.

Book here: Transfer From Da Nang to Hoi An Old Town

I recommend staying in Hoi An for the night, take a tour to My Son Sanctuary in the morning, and then catch your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, our next destination in the afternoon.

First things first, book your hotel near the old town, so you can get around and see the best tourist spots in no time. Also, while you’re here, you’ll want to buy the Hoi An Pass, which is cheap and allows you to visit 5 attractions in the the old town, out of 30 or so.

I did the attractions in Hoi An below and loved my day out:

• Japanese Bridge
• Fujian Assembly Hall
• Hainan Assembly Hall
• Cam Pho Communal House
• Hoi An Traditional Art Performance Theatre

At night, Hoi An transforms into a magical landscape with its lanterns lighting up the streets and the river. The Night Market is a must-visit for unique souvenirs and delicious street food.

Don’t miss the opportunity to have clothes tailor-made at one of the many bespoke tailors Hoi An is famous for. And if you come by scooter, don’t skip An Bang Beach, which is on the way from Da Nang!

Now, My Son Sanctuary, which I suggest you visit for sunrise, is a UNESCO World Heritage site just a short drive away.

It is an ancient Hindu temple complex, set in a lush green valley, and was once home to the Champas. Visiting My Son offers a peaceful yet profound insight into Vietnam’s diverse history.

Things to Do in Hoi An

• Stroll through Hoi An Ancient Town: Immerse yourself in its timeless charm.
• Take a lantern-making workshop: Create your own souvenir.
• Enjoy a boat ride on the Hoai River: Experience Hoi An’s beauty from the water.
• Visit My Son Sanctuary at sunrise: Witness the temples in the best light.
• Sample Hoi An’s culinary delights: Try cao lau, a local noodle dish.
• Wander around the Night Market: Shop for lanterns and taste local snacks.
• Get tailor-made clothes: Visit a tailor for a custom dress or suit.

Where to Stay in Hoi An

• Luxury: Bay Resort Hoi An
• Mid-range: Hoian Central Hotel
• Budget: Thanh Van 1 Hotel

Where to Eat in Hoi An

• Morning Glory – Known for its traditional Hoi An dishes and cooking classes.
• Banh Mi Phuong – Made famous by Anthony Bourdain, known for its delicious banh mi sandwiches.
• Cargo Club – Offers a mix of international and Vietnamese dishes, famous for its pastries.
• The Field Restaurant & Bar – Set in the countryside, offering farm-to-table dishes in a beautiful setting.
• Hoi An Night Market – A vibrant spot to try various street foods and local specialties.

Best Tours in Hoi An

Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City

The ninth day will see your arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis and largest city in Southern Vietnam. Flights from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City are relatively short, lasting just a hour and half.

Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, is a dynamic metropolis that combines the old with the new in a fascinating way, just like Hanoi, but I found the southern city to be more modern.

The city’s energy is palpable, with its bustling streets, skyscrapers, and local markets. The reason why I recommend staying only one day is because you have a tight schedule and you can see the most popular places in a single day.

Stay in districts 1 and 3 to see the city’s French colonial past with landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the Saigon Central Post Office.

Also, after seeing both, visit the War Remnants Museum, which is within walking distance and provides powerful insights into Vietnam’s turbulent history, not to be missed.

And for a taste of local life, visit Ben Thanh Market, where you can haggle for souvenirs, textiles, and try street food delicacies. Can you think of a cooler time in South Vietnam?

Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

• Visit the War Remnants Museum: Learn about Vietnam’s recent history.
• Explore Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office: Marvel at colonial architecture.
• Stroll down Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Experience the city’s modern pulse.
• Savor street food in District 1: Have yet another pho, banh mi, and more.
• Shop at Ben Thanh Market: Find souvenirs and local crafts.
• Take a Saigon River cruise: See the city from a different perspective.
• Enjoy the nightlife in Bui Vien Street: Dive into Saigon’s bustling night scene.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

• Luxury: The Reverie Saigon
• Mid-range: Calista Sai Gon Hotel
• Budget: City Backpackers Hostel

Where to Eat in Ho Chi Minh City

• Cuc Gach Quan – A beautifully restored French colonial house serving traditional Vietnamese dishes.
• Pho Quynh – Famous for its pho, a must-try Vietnamese noodle soup.
• Pizza 4P’s – Beloved for its excellent pizzas and cheese, offering a fusion of Italian and Japanese cuisine.
• The Deck Saigon – Located along the Saigon River, offering upscale dining with international and Vietnamese options.
• Ben Thanh Street Food Market – A modern street food hall with a wide range of local and international dishes.

Best Tours in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 10: Day Trip to Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta

The last day of this 10 days in Vietnam itinerary is still in Ho Chi Minh City, but I recommend taking a day trip to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, and you can enjoy the nightlife before ending the trip!

The Cu Chi Tunnels are a massive network of underground passageways used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.

Located about 1.5 hours from Ho Chi Minh City, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the ingenuity and resilience of the Vietnamese fighters during the war with the US.

Tours to Cu Chi Tunnels usually start in the early morning and you’ll want to prebook it online before they sell out, as they’re the most famous trip.

Walking through the preserved sections of the tunnels, you can’t help but feel a deep respect for the soldiers who lived and fought under such challenging conditions. The site also features exhibits of booby traps, living quarters, and workshops, providing a comprehensive understanding of the tunnel system’s significance.

For those interested in history and military tactics, the Cu Chi Tunnels are an invaluable experience. It’s a powerful reminder of the complexities of war and the human spirit’s endurance.

Plus, these day tours include a boat ride on the Mekong Delta, and that will make your day even more memorable!

Back in Ho Chi Minh City, you can spend your evening reflecting on the day’s experiences over a meal in one of the city’s many excellent restaurants or cafes.

This day trip is the perfect way to conclude your unforgettable 10 days in Vietnam.

Best Tours to the Cu Chi Tunnels

Travel Tips for Vietnam

Before setting off on your 10-day Vietnam adventure, you’ll want to know some more essentials that not everyone talk about, like the must-try food, the visa, and more. Here’s more information that you may find helpful as a first-timer.

Must-Try Vietnamese Dishes

Vietnamese cuisine is a delightful symphony of flavors, textures, and aromas that will make your taste buds dance for a while.

Pho, a spicy beef noodle soup, is an absolute must-try dish, and each city and region offers unique and delicious local food specialties. In addition to Pho, be sure to sample other local favorites such as Banh Mi, a scrumptious Vietnamese sandwich, and Bun Bo Hue, a spicy beef and pork noodle soup.

Don’t forget to indulge in some of the country’s delectable desserts like Che, a sweet and refreshing Vietnamese dessert soup, and Banh Flan, a silky Vietnamese crème caramel.

Extending Your Vietnam Itinerary

If the idea of extending your Vietnam itinerary piques your interest, there are a multitude of exciting options to contemplate in Southeast Asia.

Sapa, a picturesque mountain town in Northern Vietnam, offers stunning rice terraces and opportunities to trek Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina.

For those seeking a more leisurely experience, Dalat, a charming city in the Central Highlands, boasts a pleasant climate, gorgeous waterfalls, and a vibrant local culture.

Another great option is to spend additional time in Da Nang and visit the Ba Na Hills. Ba Na Hills is a popular resort featuring:

• The famous Golden Bridge, a breathtaking 500ft-long pedestrian bridge held up by giant stone hands
• The charming French Village
• Beautiful gardens
• The impressive Linh Ung Pagoda

All of these attractions can be found within the Ba Na Hills theme park. That said, you should plan at least one full day to visit Ba Na Hills.

Visa for Vietnam

Visa requirements vary depending on nationality, but most European countries can enjoy visa-free entry to Vietnam for 14-45 days. Citizens of other countries, including the US, Canada, India, China, and UAE, can easily obtain a visa to enter Vietnam, which can be valid for up to 3 months.

Conclusion – 10-Day Vietnam Trip Itinerary

Wrapping up a 10-day journey through Vietnam is like closing a book filled with captivating stories, each chapter offering its unique blend of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes – And leaving the country will make you feel sad, I’ll be honest.

This ultimate Vietnam itinerary went through historical streets, the stunning Ha Long Bay, the serene beauty of Ninh Binh, the dynamic vibe of Da Nang, and much more.

Have you crafted your itinerary? I hope the recommendations in this guide helped you, and I can’t wait to hear your feedback!