Vietnam offers an unforgettable journey blending vibrant culture and stunning scenery. Why choose between the North, Central, or South when you can experience the best of all three?
Join Travel Sense Asia to explore how a typical Vietnam in 10 days trip can seamlessly cover Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoi An’s ancient streets, and the lively Mekong Delta, ensuring authentic experiences without feeling rushed. This journey provides maximum discovery, setting the stage for a longer Vietnam itinerary in 2 weeks if time allows.
A sample itinerary to explore Vietnam in 10 days
Day 1: Hanoi – Arrival
Start your 10-day itinerary in Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam. Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in the Old Quarter, a lively area full of historic streets, traditional markets, and local cafes.
Take the rest of the day to relax after your flight or enjoy a gentle evening stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake. The tranquil waters and nearby Ngoc Son Temple offer a serene introduction to the city’s rich history. For US and Canadian travelers, this is the perfect chance to adjust to local time and soak in the city’s atmosphere, setting the stage for the adventures ahead.
A street in Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi – City & Street Food Tour
Begin your 2 weeks in Vietnam with a full day in Hanoi. Start at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, then explore the Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison, gaining insights into Vietnam’s history and culture. Wander through the bustling Old Quarter, where narrow streets are lined with shops, markets, and street food stalls. US and Canadian visitors will love sampling authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho, bun cha, and egg coffee, offering a delicious introduction to local flavors.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture the city’s lively streets and cultural landmarks.
A cyclo tour in the Old Quarters
Day 3 – 4: Halong Bay/Lan Ha Bay – Luxury Cruise Trip
For those seeking natural beauty and thrilling experiences, Halong and Lan Ha Bay are the perfect destination. On day 3 of your Vietnam itinerary, board a luxury cruise for an overnight stay on the water.
Spend the day exploring limestone karsts, hidden coves, and pristine beaches. Guests can enjoy activities such as kayaking, swimming, or simply relaxing on the sun deck while taking in the dramatic seascapes. Meals are served on board, featuring fresh seafood and local specialties, giving travelers a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine while floating through serene waters.
Tip: Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, and a good camera to capture the stunning landscapes. Booking the cruise early ensures the best cabins and preferred schedules, especially for travelers following a Vietnam itinerary in 2 weeks.
A luxury cruise in Halong Bay
Day 5-7: Hoi An – Ancient Town
Continue your 10-day itinerary with a flight from Hanoi to Da Nang and transfer to Hoi An, one of the most charming stops. For travelers seeking a comfortable 2-week trip in Vietnam experience, Hoi An offers a perfect balance: deep cultural connection, exquisite dining and the opportunity to craft meaningful souvenirs.
Immerse yourself in the UNESCO Ancient Town, admiring the seamless architecture, from Japanese bridges to French colonial houses, all brought to magical life by thousands of glowing lanterns at dusk. Beyond the historical streets, your time allows for flexible discovery: cycle through the tranquil rice fields, relax on An Bang Beach, or dive into local traditions with a hands-on cooking class or a lantern-making workshop.
The Ancient Town of Hoi An
Day 7-8: Ho Chi Minh City – Cu Chi Tunnels & City Tour
From Hoi An, head south to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC or Saigon), Vietnam’s dynamic southern hub. In HCMC, history meets high-octane energy. Your exploration begins with a profound morning visit to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, offering a powerful, tangible insight into the resilience of the Vietnamese people, a must-do for US and Canadian visitors on any 2-week travel itinerary in Vietnam.
Later, dive into the city’s pulse with a stylish open-air Jeep tour around the former Saigon, allowing you to absorb the bustling colonial architecture, key landmarks like the Central Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral, and the vibrant street life in an intimate way. Enjoy an evening of luxury dining with panoramic skyline views from a rooftop restaurant.
Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City
Day 9: Mekong Delta
Day 9 takes you to the Mekong Delta, one of the most authentic cultural highlights in 2 weeks. In Ben Tre, often called the “land of coconuts,” travelers board a traditional boat to cruise along winding rivers and canals.
The experience includes visiting small villages, sampling fresh tropical fruits, and learning traditional crafts such as coconut candy making. Lunch is typically hosted in a local home or garden, offering a taste of true Mekong hospitality. This day provides US and Canadian visitors with a chance to step away from busy cities and connect with Vietnam’s rural life, a meaningful contrast that deepens the overall journey.
Tip: Bring cash in small denominations for local purchases, as many family-run businesses here do not accept cards.
A boat ride through the waterways in Mekong Delta
Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City – Departure
Conclude your immersive Vietnam in 10 days with a relaxed morning in Ho Chi Minh City. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping at Ben Thanh Market or a quiet coffee at a local café-perfect for reflecting on the journey. Your driver will then transfer you to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure flight. Though the holiday ends, the experiences of Vietnam’s North, Central, and South will leave lasting memories.
Ben Thanh Market
FAQ – 10 Days in Vietnam
Q: Is a journey in Vietnam in 10 days enough to see all of the highlights?
A: Yes, this Vietnam 10 day itinerary covers the highlights of North, Central, and South Vietnam, offering a well-rounded experience.
Q: When is the best time to follow this itinerary?
A: The ideal time to enjoy this Vietnam 10 day itinerary is from February to May or November to early December, when weather conditions are most favorable across all three regions of Vietnam. In the North, you’ll experience cool, dry days that are perfect for city tours and luxury cruises. In the Central region, spring and late autumn bring more sunshine and fewer rains, making lantern festivals and cultural experiences more enjoyable. The South is generally warm year-round, with the dry season from November to March offering the most comfortable conditions.
Q: Can this 10-day trip be extended into a plan in 2 weeks?
A: Absolutely – many travelers adapt this into a Vietnam itinerary in 2 weeks by adding destinations like Mai Chau, Ninh Binh or Hue for deeper cultural exploration.
Q: Is a 10-day itinerary in Vietnam suitable for families?
A: Yes, this itinerary is designed for all types of travelers, balancing cultural immersion, leisure, and comfort.
Plan your Vietnam itinerary in 10 days with Travel Sense Asia
This curated itinerary in Vietnam provides a balanced journey through the country’s most iconic regions: historic Hanoi, the serene waters of Lan Ha Bay, cultural Hoi An, dynamic Ho Chi Minh City, and the authentic Mekong Delta.
For US and Canadian travelers, it’s an immersion into Vietnamese culture, history, and daily life, supported by comfortable accommodations and seamless logistics. To make the most of your trip, prepare early and consider working with trusted operators like Travel Sense Asia, ensuring a safe, personalized, and stress-free holiday.
