Vietnam Itinerary 10 Days: Not Sure Where to Go? Start Here!

Wondering if 10 days is enough to visit Vietnam? Good news—it is! With a classic 10-day itinerary, you would get to see Vietnam's most iconic destinations without feeling rushed, like Halong Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh.

Most travelers either go north to south or focus on one region based on their interests.

Where Should You Go in Vietnam in 10 Days?

Now, let's break down Vietnam's key destinations and how you can make the most of your trip.

• North (Cultural & Scenic Highlights): Hanoi (1-2 Days, capital city, cultural heart), Ha Long Bay (1-3 Days, scenic cruises), Sapa (2-3 Days, rice terraces, ethnic villages), and Ninh Binh (1-2 Days, karst landscapes).
• Central (Beach Towns & Ancient Charm): Hoi An (2-3 Days, UNESCO-listed ancient town with lantern-lit streets), Da Nang (3-4 Days, beaches, modern city vibes), Hue (1-2 Days, imperial history).
• South (Urban Life & Island Getaways): Ho Chi Minh City (1-2 Days, metropolis & Vietnam War history), Mekong Delta (1-2 Days, floating markets, rural life), Phu Quoc (3-4 Days, island escape).

10-Day Vietnam Itinerary at a Glance

10-Day Best of Vietnam: Top Pick for First-Timers

Hanoi (2 nights) → Halong Bay (1 night) → Hoi An (3 nights) → Ho Chi Minh City (3 nights)

From Hanoi's cultural charm to Hoi An's lantern-lit streets, Ho Chi Minh City's energy, and the Mekong Delta's peaceful waterways—this itinerary hits Vietnam's must-sees.

Days 1–2: Hanoi – Vietnam's Charming Capital

Arrive in Hanoi, where the best way to experience the city is by cyclo—a fun way to dodge the chaotic traffic. Visit Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, and enjoy a Water Puppet Show. (We can even set up a private show where you try the puppets yourself.)

• Insider Advice: The Old Quarter is exciting but overwhelming, especially for first-timers. Crossing the street? Just walk confidently—hesitating is riskier. Want a smoother intro? A local guide makes the chaos feel like part of the adventure.

Days 3–4: Halong Bay – Cruise Through a Natural Wonder

After a 3.5-hour drive, board an overnight cruise in Halong Bay—the best way to enjoy this UNESCO-listed wonder. Wake up to misty limestone karsts, kayak in hidden lagoons, and explore caves before flying to Da Nang.

• Common Mistake: Many travelers try to squeeze Halong Bay into a day trip—big mistake. Too much driving, too little time on the water. An overnight cruise is 100% worth it.

Days 5–6: Hoi An – Ancient Town & Local Life

Hoi An's lantern-lit streets are magical, especially after sunset. Stroll through the Ancient Town, then get hands-on with a farming-to-fishing tour or a farm-to-table cooking class.

• Travel Tip: Most restaurants in the Old Town cater to tourists. If you want authentic local flavors, take a guided food tour to hidden gems.

Days 7–8: Ho Chi Minh City – Modern Vibes & War History

Fly south to Vietnam's most modern city. Visit the War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and take a Cu Chi Tunnels tour if you're into history. Not your thing? Ho Chi Minh City also has amazing rooftop bars and street food tours.

• What to Expect: Traffic is even crazier than in Hanoi. Short distances can take forever—stay near District 1 to avoid long commutes.

Days 9–10: Mekong Delta – A Taste of Rural Vietnam

Cruise through the Mekong Delta on a traditional wooden boat to explore the maze-like river system. If you want to see the floating markets at their best (6–7 AM), stay overnight in Can Tho. Otherwise, return to Ho Chi Minh City for your flight home.

• Insider Advice: many day trips cover touristy coconut candy factories, so choose a reliable agent to avoid bad experiences and see the authentic one.

10 Days in Vietnam with Teens: Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang

Ho Chi Minh City (2 nights) → Hue (2 nights) → Hoi An (2 nights) → Da Nang (3 nights)

Planning a trip with teens? This itinerary balances adventure, history, and Instagram-worthy spots—like the Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills. While teens get their thrills, parents can dive into Vietnam War history and soak up Hoi An's romantic charm.

The best part? No exhausting long drives or constant hotel-hopping! Plus, it fits perfectly into school holidays from January to July.

• Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 2: Take a city tour and enjoy an evening A O Show
• Day 3: Speedboat tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels, then fly to Hue (1.5 hours)
• Day 4: Explore Hue's Imperial Citadel and enjoy a folk performance
• Day 5: Drive from Hue to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass (3 hours), with an evening foodie tour
• Day 6: Experience local fishing life, with a basket boat ride and lantern-making
• Day 7: Day trip to Ba Na Hills (2 hours from Hoi An), then head to Da Nang
• Days 8-9: Free time for beach activities
• Day 10: Airport transfer and departure from Da Nang

In Ho Chi Minh City, the kids would pump up with the A O Show, an exciting acrobatic performance. Take a speedboat tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels (saves 2 hours vs. driving!) and crawl inside the tunnels also eye-opening. (Weather tip: Expect brief afternoon/evening downpours from May to July, but they won't affect most activities as listed.)

In Hue, dress in traditional clothes and snap a family photo at the Imperial Citadel. A folk performance on a boat is also a great experience. Drive to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass—one of Vietnam's most scenic routes. Feeling adventurous? Try it by motorcycle!

In Hoi An, don't miss the basket boat ride. The "crazy boatman" spin in the basket boat—teens will love it (and it's perfect for TikTok!) Then experience local fishing life: ride a basket boat, learn to throw nets, and BBQ your catch!

Before unwinding in Da Nang's beaches, head to Ba Na Hills. Ride the world's longest cable car (5.8 km), cross through the clouds, and snap photos at the famous Golden Bridge (Tip: Arrive before 8 AM to avoid crowds.) From Feb–Mar, cherry blossoms bloom, and from May–July, it's a cool escape from the heat.

We've picked the best family-friendly hotels with pools:

• Fusion Original Saigon Centre (HCMC) – Great for shopping & rooftop views.
• Melia Vinpearl Hue (Hue) – Perfect location near the Citadel.
• Anantara Hoi An Resort (Hoi An) – Charming riverside stay.
• Sel de Mer Hotel & Suites (Da Nang) – Steps from the beach.

If you'd like to explore all three regions, let us know! We can customize more family activities for you based on Itinerary 1 or your interests.

Romantic Vietnam: 10 Days in Hanoi, Sapa & Halong Bay

Hanoi (2 nights) → Overnight Train to Sapa → Sapa (2 nights) →Hanoi (1 night) → Halong Bay Cruise (2 nights)→Hanoi (1 night)

If you're planning a romantic trip to northern Vietnam, this 10-day itinerary is just right for you. Think quiet mountain retreats, sunset cruises, scenic treks, and cozy village stays—a dream getaway for couples.

Instead of hopping between too many places, you slow down and soak in the beauty of Hanoi, Sapa, and Halong Bay.

The best time to visit is late September to November for clear skies and golden rice terraces or March to April for blooming wildflowers with occasional drizzles.

• Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi
• Day 2: Explore rustic Hanoi – Bike through Ky Son Village & join a cooking class
• Day 3: Take a cyclo tour in Hanoi, then board the overnight train to Sapa (8 hours)
• Day 4: Arrive in Sapa, visit a local hill tribe market (1-hour drive from the station), free afternoon
• Day 5: Trek along Sapa's off-the-beaten-path route (Thanh Phu, My Son & Nam Cang)
• Day 6: Enjoy a half-day trek to Lech Village, then drive back to Hanoi (5-6 hours by private car)
• Day 7: Transfer to Halong Bay (3-hour drive), board a 3-Day Halong Bay Cruise, kayak through caves
• Day 8: Bike around Viet Hai Village, and relax on the beach near Ba Men Temple
• Day 9: Explore Trung Trang Cave, then return to Hanoi (3-hour drive)
• Day 10: Departure

Hanoi: A Cultural & Slow-Paced Start

Beyond a typical Hanoi city tour, take a short trip to Ky Son Village, where you can bike through rice fields, learn to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes, and experience the peaceful countryside.

Before heading to Sapa, treat yourself to a luxury spa session, then board the overnight train to Sapa (8 hours)—a nostalgic yet cozy adventure. (For light sleepers, a 5-hour car ride is a good alternative.)

• Insider tips: Northern Vietnam's attractions are spread out, with Hanoi as the main transport hub. That is why you would check in and out in Hanoi twice.

Sapa: Hidden Trails & Authentic Encounters

Upon arrival, start your Day by exploring a local hill tribe market—a lively morning scene where different ethnic communities gather. (Markets rotate locations and are closed on Mondays, so plan ahead!)

Trekking in Sapa is a must, as is stepping into a postcard—endless rice terraces and colorful hill tribe villages. Instead of the crowded Cat Cat Village trek, we recommend quieter, more scenic routes: Thanh Phu, My Son, and Nam Cang. Trying on their traditional clothing is another perk.

For the ultimate romantic retreat, stay at Topas Ecolodge—a hilltop paradise with an infinity pool overlooking Sapa's valleys.

Halong Bay: a Romantic Escape on the Water

Instead of the usual tourist routes, our 3-day cruise takes you to secluded corners of Halong Bay. With only a small number of cabins (5-20), exclusive service, privacy and tranquility are guaranteed.

Kayak through hidden caves, bike around the peaceful Viet Hai Village and unwind on a secluded beach near Ba Men Temple. Romantic moments? Sunset cocktails and stargazing on your private balcony.

Need a tailor-made honeymoon or anniversary plan? Let us design the perfect romantic getaway for you!

Vietnam Plus Cambodia or Laos: 10-Day Multi-Country Trip

Want to add a second country? Cambodia and Laos are top picks for their proximity and culture.

Option 1: Vietnam & Cambodia (History & Temples)

• Start in Ho Chi Minh City, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, and explore the Mekong Delta.
• Take a short flight or speedboat to Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital.
• Fly to Siem Reap to see the legendary Angkor Wat before heading home.

Interested in it? See more details from our 10-Day South Vietnam to Cambodia Tour.

Option 2: Vietnam & Laos (Scenic & Cultural Blend)

• Begin in Hanoi, exploring its rich history and local food scene.
• Cruise Halong Bay, then fly to Luang Prabang, Laos' spiritual heart.
• Discover waterfalls, Buddhist temples, and stunning Mekong River views.

Tip: when planning a multi-country trip in 10 days, you would need to double check the visa policy and optimize the best transport route. Feeling hassle? We can help!

How Much Does a 10-Day Vietnam Tour Cost?

A 10-day private tour in Vietnam costs $1,500–$3,500 per person, depending on your travel style. A mid-range trip with 4- or 5-star hotels, private guides, and domestic flights runs $200–250 per day, while a luxury experience with top resorts and exclusive activities costs $250–350 per Day.

You can see the main cost factors:

• Hotels (20–30%) – Varies by accommodation level.
• Transportation (15–25%) – Domestic flights, private cars, and transfers.
• Food (10–15%) – Street food ($2–5 per meal) vs. fine dining ($30+ per meal).
• Attractions & Activities (15–20%) – Depends on selected experiences.
• Guides & Miscellaneous (10–15%) – Includes private guides and additional costs.