Discovering all the beauty of Vietnam in just 10 days can seem like a challenge for travelers.
Vietnam is a vast and diverse country, where each region offers a unique experience. However, a well-thought-out itinerary allows you to maximize every moment. Dive into our selection of the five best itineraries for a 10-day stay in Vietnam, specially designed to satisfy all your desires for discovery, adventure, relaxation, and gastronomy.
A tailor-made trip, designed for all types of travelers
These itineraries cover iconic destinations such as Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City, while offering cultural experiences and activities tailored to every type of tourist.
Whether you are a first-timer to Vietnam, a traveler looking for adventure, or a lover of good food, these routes offer exclusive options and quality services. Prepare to experience an unforgettable journey, at the pace that suits you.
| Ideal for | Itinerary | Transportation |
| Beginners | Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Halong Bay – Hoi An – Da Nang – Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta | Shuttle, Plane, Cruise |
| Couples and families | Hanoi – Mai Chau – Halong Bay – Hoi An | Plane, Car, Bike, Shuttle, Cruise |
| Gastronomy lovers | Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta – Da Nang – Hoi An | Plane, Car, Motorcycle |
| Tourism from South to North | Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta – Hoi An – Hanoi – Along Bay | Plane, Car, Cruise |
| Adventure seekers | Hanoi – Sapa – Ha Giang – Cao Bang | Car, shuttle |
1. 10 days Vietnam itinerary for beginners
Unlike other tours, this itinerary is specially designed for first-time travelers. It takes you to the most iconic destinations in the North, Central and South regions of Vietnam, introducing you to famous cities such as Hanoi, Da Nang And Ho Chi Minh City. Ideal for those with little time, this 10-day itinerary covers most of Vietnam.
Day 1: Hello Hanoi
Arriving in Hanoi, start with a stroll in the old quarter to admire French colonial buildings and Vietnamese tubular houses. Enjoy the fresh air around the Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the Ngoc Son temple on Jade Island, dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao, a hero of the Vietnamese resistance.
In the evening, explore the Hanoi street food by booking a food walking tour (around 35 USD/person). Discover iconic dishes like Pho Bo, THE Bun Thang or the Nem Chua Ran for a gourmet immersion.
Day 2: Day trip to Ninh Binh
The next day, go on an excursion to Ninh Binh. A 2-hour cruise on the Ngo Dong River will take you through the lush rice fields of Tam Coc, also known as the “Three Caves”. In the afternoon, visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam under the Dinh and Le dynasties, before returning to Hanoi.
Days 3 to 4: Night cruise in Halong Bay – Flight to Da Nang
Spend two days exploring the Halong Bay during a cruise. Try it kayak on emerald waters and explore caves like Sung Sot And Thien Cung. Also take a Vietnamese cooking class and try your hand at squid fishing. On the fourth day, take a flight to Da Nang.
Day 5: Half day in Hoi An
HAS Hoi An, visit the famous Japanese covered bridge and the Fujian Assembly Hall for an immersion in historical architecture. Spend the afternoon in local workshops, watching artisans make traditional lanterns and textiles.
Day 6: Da Nang – Ba Na Hills
Discover the Ba Na hills by going up by cable car from Suoi Mo. Don’t miss the spectacular Golden Bridge, supported by giant stone hands. Enjoy the afternoon at Fantasy Park for fun activities.
Day 7: Discovery of Ho Chi Minh City
In Ho Chi Minh City, visit the War Remnants Museum for a historical perspective. Then head towards the Ben Thanh market to taste local specialties like Com Tam and the Banh Mi.
Day 8: Exploration of the Mekong Delta
Leave for the Mekong Delta by visiting the Vinh Trang Pagoda and sailing a sampan through picturesque canals. In the afternoon, explore the village of Tan Thach by bike, passing rows of coconut trees for an immersion in local life.
Days 9-10: Ho Chi Minh City – Cu Chi Tunnels
Explore the Cu Chi tunnels, a historic underground network used during the Vietnam War. Then visit the Independence Square to discover historical objects. End your trip by enjoying the vibrant nightlife on the Nguyen Hue pedestrian street.
2. 10-day itinerary in Vietnam from South to North
If you’re a budget traveler, this 10-day Vietnam itinerary is ideal for exploring the must-sees from South to North at an affordable cost. In a group, you will discover the emblematic sites while enjoying the best value for money.
Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City
After a long flight to Ho Chi Minh City, start your stay by sipping a drink on a rooftop terrace. THE Rooftop Garden Bar is ideal with its live music and fantastic view of the city center. Then, immerse yourself in the animation of Nguyen Hue pedestrian street, where you will experience the vibrant life of Saigon, surrounded by a mix of French colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers.
Day 2: Discovery of the Mekong Delta
On the second day, go for a Mekong Delta day trip. Wander through peaceful villages, then board a “Xe Loi” to explore orchards and taste tropical fruits like longan, durian and rambutan. A local lunch awaits you with dishes like fried elephant ears, a regional specialty. Finish with a boat ride through picturesque canals, where you can admire the lush landscapes of the delta.
Day 3: Cu Chi Tunnels – Ho Chi Minh City – Flight to Da Nang
On the third day, discover the fascinating history of Cu Chi tunnels during a guided tour. Explore this vast underground network and discover the traps and installations used during the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, visit the Reunification Palace for a glimpse of the old government offices and command rooms, before taking a flight to Da Nang.
Days 4 – 5: Exploring Hoi An
Once at Hoi An, explore the old town, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will be impressed by the unique architecture which reflects a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese and European influences. Don’t forget to visit the Japanese covered bridge, a symbol of the city’s multicultural past. On the fifth day, discover the My Son Sanctuary, a Hindu temple site built by the Champa people, open 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. (approx. $6.1 per person). For an authentic experience, go to Cam Thanh village to discover the rural way of life and local agricultural practices.
Days 6 – 7: Da Nang – Flight to Hanoi
Leaving from Da Nang, you will arrive in Hanoi, capital of Vietnam, for the continuation of your adventure. Start with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh complex, where you can pay your respects to the country’s revered leader, Uncle Ho. Also enjoy the One Pillar Pagoda, an architectural marvel built on a single pillar, an important symbol of Vietnamese heritage. The next day, explore the Temple of Literature, the first university in Vietnam, marking the influence of Confucianism. Then go to the Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the city. In the evening, choose from the following options
Days 8 – 9: Cruise in Halong Bay
Leave Hanoi for a overnight cruise in Halong Bay. Start with a kayaking adventure on the emerald waters, where you’ll explore hidden lagoons and caves like the Sung Sot Cave. In the evening, take part in a cooking class on deck to learn how to prepare Vietnamese spring rolls, while enjoying a breathtaking view of the bay.
Day 10: Departure from Hanoi
For your last day, enjoy Hanoi at your own pace. Start with a walk around the Hoan Kiem Lake for a moment of calm, followed by a local breakfast with a egg coffee at the famous Café Giang. If you are an art lover, visit Vietnam Fine Arts Museum to admire a rich collection of Vietnamese works of art, including religious statues and traditional paintings.
3. 10 Day Vietnam Itinerary for Adventure Lovers
This trip is designed for nature lovers and adventurers eager to discover the hidden treasures of Vietnam. Unlike classic itineraries, this circuit immerses you in remote and authentic places. This 10-day itinerary, rich in cultural and natural discoveries, is ideal for explorers, adults and backpackers, offering a perfect blend of landscapes and local interactions.
Day 1: Hanoi – Duong Lam Village – Nghia Lo
From Hanoi, leave for the historic village of Duong Lam, renowned for its old houses, some of which date back more than 400 years. During your walk, you will discover traditional houses made of wood and laterite, preserving the authenticity of Vietnamese architecture. Don’t miss it Mong Phu temple, a spiritual and cultural site dedicated to the guardian deity of the village. After a lunch of local dishes, you will take the road to Nghia Lo in Yen Bai province, enjoying the picturesque views of the Vietnamese countryside.
Day 2: Nghia Lo – Mu Cang Chai Hill Tribes
The next day, direction Mu Cang Chai, a beautiful and isolated region home to several ethnic minority groups such as the H’mong, Thai and Dao. Stroll through Nam Co commune to interact with locals and discover their traditional agricultural techniques, as well as weaving and other crafts. You will also have the opportunity to admire the famous golden rice terraces of Mam Soi and La Pan Tan, which are among the most emblematic landscapes of Vietnam.
Day 3: Mu Cang Chai – Sapa
The next stage of your itinerary takes you to Sapa, a picturesque mountain town. On the way, you will pass Tan Uyen, where lush green fields and mountains will surround you. Upon arrival in Sapa, several trails await you to explore the rice terraces and villages of local ethnic minorities. The weather in this region can be unpredictable, so it is advisable to wear non-slip hiking shoes and, for greater comfort, to use walking sticks.
Day 4: Sapa – Bac Ha Market – Hoang Su Phi
Start your day with a visit to the Bac Ha market, a cultural gathering place for local ethnic communities, notably the Fleur H’mong. This bustling market is famous for its handicraft items such as textiles, colorful embroidery and traditional jewelry. Then head towards the Hoang A Tuong Palace, a unique building reflecting the rich heritage of the region. You will learn about the fascinating history of the Hoang family and their cultural significance in this mountainous region.
Day 5: Hoang Su Phi – Ha Giang
On the fifth day you will leave Hoang Su Phi to get to Ha Giang. Along the way, prepare to cross northern Vietnam’s two most impressive passes: Tan Su Phin Pass and Cong Troi Pass, which offer breathtaking views of valleys, terraced fields and towering peaks limestone. This scenic drive is an experience in itself, offering spectacular panoramas of mountains and remote landscapes.
Day 6: Ha Giang – Dong Van – Meo Vac
From Ha Giang, set off for Dong Van and visit the palace of the H’mong king in the village of Sa Phin. Built in the 20th century, this palace is a fascinating example of H’mong architecture and bears witness to the history of this region. Then continue towards the karst plateau geopark, a geological preserve known for its spectacular limestone formations, deep canyons and towering mountains. At the end of the day, head to the Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of the most famous passes in Vietnam, offering breathtaking views of the gorges and the river below.
Day 7: Meo Vac – Bao Lac – Cao Bang
Explore Meo Vac, a picturesque village where various ethnic groups such as the H’mong, Dao, Tay and Giay live. If you are there on a weekend, visit the Meo Vac market to discover artisanal textiles and traditional objects made locally. Later, go to Pac Rank, where you will attend a blacksmith demonstration, an ancestral know-how that continues in this region.
Day 8: Ban Gioc Waterfall – Nguom Ngao Cave
On the eighth day, discover the Ban Gioc waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. Hop on a boat to get close to the base of the falls and feel the refreshing mist. Then explore the Nguom Ngao cave, famous for its unique geological formations and astonishing stalactites, offering an unforgettable natural spectacle.
Days 9 – 10: Ba Be Lake – Hanoi
To conclude your adventure, leave for the Ba Be lake, which means “Three Lakes” and actually consists of three interconnected lakes – Pe Lam, Pe Lu and Pe Leng. A boat trip on the lake is ideal for admiring the natural beauty of this exceptional site. You will also have the chance to visit the Puong cave, a spectacular limestone cavern that is home to thousands of bats. Return to Hanoi to conclude your trip, taking with you lasting memories of this Vietnam adventure tour.
4. 10-day Vietnam itinerary for couples and families
This 10-day itinerary is specially designed for couples and families, offering a leisurely pace focused on exploring the Northern and Central regions of Vietnam. This trip allows you to visit iconic sites while enjoying unique cultural experiences suitable for adults and children, ensuring an unrushed, deep immersion in the beauty of each destination.
Days 1 – 2: Hanoi Jeep Adventure
As soon as you arrive in Hanoi, set off to discover the peaceful countryside of the Red River, where you will discover rural landscapes and village traditions. Don’t miss it Bat Trang pottery village for an interactive pottery workshop.
Continue towards the West Lake and the Lake Truc Bach to explore the surrounding flowery villages or enjoy a boat ride in the shape of a swan. End the day with a cold beer and Nem Ran in the anime Ta Hien Street.
Day 3: Hanoi – Duong Lam ancient village – Mai Chau
Leave Hanoi for Duong Lam ancient village, more than 1,200 years old. Explore its picturesque streets and admire the well-preserved traditional houses. In the afternoon, visit the temples of Ngo Quyen And Phung Hung. Be sure to dress modestly for these religious sites.
Day 4: Easy hike to Mai Chau – Return to Hanoi
Spend the day in the valley Mai Chau, where you can visit Thai tribal villages, take part in traditional weaving demonstrations and even take a Thai cooking class with fresh ingredients. Return to Hanoi in the evening to prepare for the next adventure.
Days 5 – 6: Cruise in Halong Bay – Flight to Da Nang – Hoi An
Days 5 and 6 are dedicated to a night cruise in Halong Bay. Make some kayak among limestone karsts and explore hidden caves, including the famous Sung Sot Cave. Relax on the beach and watch the sunset before catching a flight to Da Nang and joining Hoi An.
Day 7: Tra Que Village – Lantern workshop
In Hoi An, visit the village of Tra Que for an immersion in local agricultural practices. Then participate in a lantern making workshop where you can create traditional lanterns, a unique souvenir to take home.
Day 8: Cam Thanh Village – Hoi An Memory Show
Discover the Cam Thanh village during a basket boat ride through the coconut forest. In the evening, attend the Hoi An Memory Show, a captivating show featuring 500 artists to celebrate the history and culture of Hoi An.
Days 9 – 10: Free day in Hoi An
Take advantage of your last days to explore Hoi An at your own pace. Take part in a cooking tour to learn how to prepare local dishes with market-fresh ingredients. Finally, end with a Thu Bon River boat trip, a peaceful moment to appreciate the poetic beauty of the region.
5. 10-day Vietnam itinerary for foodies
This itinerary invites you to discover the culinary and cultural richness of Vietnam at a leisurely pace. In addition to savoring typical dishes, you will participate in cooking class to learn how to prepare iconic Vietnamese dishes, offering a unique and immersive experience.
Days 1 – 2: Saigon nightlife by motorbike
Your journey begins at Ho Chi Minh City with a thrilling Vespa excursion from Chinatown. Visit the Binh Tay market and the Ho Thi Ky flower market, where you can taste local dishes like Com Tam and the spring rolls for only 0.5-1.6 USD. End the evening with skewers at Thu Thiem Tunnel, while enjoying the lively nightlife of Saigon.
On the second day, explore the Cu Chi tunnels and discover the local cassava food. In the evening, relax with a sunset cruise on the Saigon River, sipping refreshing cocktails.
Day 3: Cooking class in Ho Chi Minh
Take part in a Vietnamese cooking class where an experienced chef will guide you to prepare authentic dishes. Then visit the agricultural village of Ho Chi Minh for a hands-on immersion in Vietnamese agricultural culture, planting and harvesting various local crops.
Day 4: Excursion to the Mekong Delta
Discover the Mekong Delta during a cruise on the Ham Luong River, lined with coconut groves and lush orchards. Visit a coconut processing workshop to learn how to make coconut candy and artisanal products. You will also visit a mat weaving village to discover this traditional know-how.
Days 5 – 6: Da Nang – Hoi An – Cooking class
Arriving in Da Nang, head to Hoi An for a visit to the Hoi An market, where you’ll find fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices that enrich Vietnamese cuisine. Take part in a hoianese cooking class and learn how to prepare popular dishes like Banh Xeo.
On the sixth day, explore the history of Hoi An at the old house of Tan Ky, a site with 200 years of commercial history. In the evening, enjoy the entertainment of Pub Street to discover the nightlife and taste local dishes while interacting with other travelers.
Days 7 – 10: Free discovery in Hoi An
Take advantage of your last days to explore Hoi An at your own pace. Take a salty coffee by the river to enjoy the serene atmosphere. In the evening, don’t miss the Hoi An night market to taste local specialties like Che or the Cao Lau, with prices varying between 0.5 and 0.81 USD.
