10 Days in Vietnam: The Best Itinerary for Your Visit
Table of contents
Best Things to Do with 10 Days in Vietnam
Itinerary in Vietnam: day 1
Tour Hanoi City
Your Vietnam itinerary of 10 days kicks off with a fun-filled and educational tour of Hanoi City. During this experience, you can expect to visit iconic locations, such as the Imperial Academy, the Temple of Literature and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. It is a great way to get a feel for this stunning city while learning a lot about it.
Hoan Kiem Lake
After your city tour concludes, we recommend heading to Hoan Kiem Lake. This is one of the area's most stunning green spaces and an iconic location in terms of Vietnamese folklore. It is the perfect place for a relaxing stroll to wrap up your first day in this beautiful region.
Itinerary in Vietnam: day 2
Hike through the mountains near Sapa
The mountains that are located near Sapa are positioned at a higher elevation than Hanoi. This provides some welcome relief from the area's hot, humid conditions. During your hike, you will encounter some of the most incredible scenery in Vietnam. This includes stunning views of the surrounding rice paddies.
Sapa Museum
Sapa Museum is the area's leading spot for tourists who want to learn more about the region's fascinating history and culture during a Vietnam itinerary of 10 days. You can explore unique galleries that are dedicated to the different groups of people that live here.
Itinerary in Vietnam: day 3
Explore the caves of Ha Long Bay
An exploration of the famed caves of Ha Long Bay is a must for your 10-day itinerary in Vietnam. This amazing system of subterranean chambers is a geological wonder with unique grottoes that have been formed by intricate stalagmite and stalactite formations. A few recommended spots include Luon Cave, Thien Cung Cave and Dark and Light Cave (also known as Day and Light Cave), which is located on Lan Ha Bay.
Kayak around Ha Long Bay
Another unique way to experience the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay during your Vietnam itinerary of 10 days is to rent a kayak for an unforgettable paddling excursion. You and your partner can row to iconic spots like the Tung Sau Pearl Farm, the fishing village of Vung Vieng and Cong Do Island.
Itinerary in Vietnam: day 4
Nghia Lo
To kick off the 4th day of your Vietnam itinerary of 10 days, we recommend an exploration of Nghia Lo. This region is famed for its production of rice, with thousands of hectares of land devoted to this purpose. You are sure to be blown away by the spectacular views as you look across vast expanses of rice fields. Tours are available if you would like to learn more about the fascinating history and current state of the rice cultivation trade in this corner of Vietnam.
Tu Le
Famed for its terraced rice fields, Tu Le is another must-see spot during your 10 days in Vietnam. During your visit, you can stop by the natural hot springs while enjoying the peaceful, mountainous scenery.
Itinerary in Vietnam: day 5
The Tombs of the Ancient Emperors
The Tombs of the Ancient Emperors is one of the most iconic attractions in the Hue region of Vietnam. Though they actually date to the 19th century, they were carved in honour of the emperors who once ruled this region. These unique tombs are decorated with stories of Buddhist legends, and they represent one of those must-have experiences for any traveller spending time in the area.
Stroll along the Perfume River
Located in Hue, the Perfume River is one of the country's most iconic bodies of water. It is home to a delightful promenade along the waterfront that is perfect for a relaxing walk in the evening as you wrap up the 5th day of your Vietnam itinerary of 10 days. You can also rent a paddleboat or take a scenic dinner cruise.
Itinerary in Vietnam: day 6
My Khe Beach
Located in Da Nang, My Khe Beach is said to be one of the country's most beautiful stretches of sand. It extends for some 32 kilometres along the coast and offers various water-based activities that include surfing and jet skiing. This is also a prime location for snorkelling or a day spent relaxing and getting a tan.
The Marble Mountains
If you are looking for the most spectacular views of Vietnam's Da Nang area, the Marble Mountains are sure to deliver. They consist of 5 separate limestone and marble hills and are located 9 kilometres outside of the city. You will encounter stunning Buddhist pagodas while enjoying a view that you are sure to remember for a lifetime.
Itinerary in Vietnam: day 7
Old Town Hoi An
Hoi An is a truly unique location in Vietnam as it was one of the few urban locations that managed to escape the majority of the bombing that razed many of the country's other cities to the ground during the Vietnam War. Because of this, many of the area's historic buildings are intact and waiting for you to discover them. It is the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring as you take in the sights and sounds of this UNESCO World Heritage Site with a history that dates back some 2,000 years.
Hoi An Museum
Hoi An Museum is the place to visit to find out more about this beautiful region's history. You will find a huge range of artefacts that date from the Cham and colonial periods. Many of the museum's galleries feature unique ceramics, paintings and drawings. You also must check out the large bronze temple bells.
Itinerary in Vietnam: day 8
Tam Coc
Located just outside of Ninh Binh, you will find the next destination of Tam Coc. It is one of the top natural destinations in all of Vietnam and a must for your 10-day itinerary. The area is known for its karst landscape and scenic limestone hills that are dotted amongst the area's rice paddies. You are sure to love the laid-back vibe that contrasts with busy areas like Ha Long Bay.
Phat Diem Cathedral
Located in Ninh Binh and dating to 1898, Phat Diem Cathedral is one of the most unique temples found in Vietnam. The structure mixes Vietnamese and Western architectural styles and features a pair of Gothic chapels and some imposing iron wood columns.
Itinerary in Vietnam: day 9
Van Long Nature Reserve
Another amazing location just outside of Ninh Binh is the Van Long Nature Reserve. This is a dream destination for birdwatchers and is home to a wide variety of local flora and fauna, such as reptiles and monkeys.
Thung Nham Bird Park
Thung Nham Bird Park is another one of the most popular spots for ecotourism that you can visit during your Vietnam itinerary of 10 days. This amazing location is home to a variety of bird species, such as herons, storks, kingfishers and egrets. You will find idyllic birdwatching areas where you can see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Itinerary in Vietnam: day 10
Giac Lam Pagoda
Located in Ho Chi Minh City, the Giac Lam Pagoda is the city's oldest temple. It dates to 1744 and is renowned for its stunning garden that includes a graceful bodhi tree. These trees are revered as sacred in the Buddhist faith. This particular specimen was a gift from a visiting monk who came from Sri Lanka in 1953.
Experience the nightlife on Pham Ngu Lao Street
An unforgettable nightlife experience in Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect way to wrap up your Vietnam itinerary of 10 days. We recommend heading to Pham Ngu Lao Street, where you will find a vibrant cafe and bar scene with something for every taste out there. Grabbing a cold, refreshing drink at a rooftop bar is the perfect way to wrap up a day spent sightseeing.
Where to stay in Vietnam
1. 10-Night Rhythm of Vietnam Tour With Optional Mui Ne Extension
The 10-Night Rhythm of Vietnam Tour With Optional Mui Ne Extension is a great option for a Vietnam itinerary of 10 days. You will visit many of the country's most iconic locations while staying at a carefully selected series of luxury hotels.
Highlights of this amazing deal include stops in Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City. Your booking price includes accommodation and all entry and boat fees as per your specific itinerary.
What we like: We love the fact that this deal gives you the chance to experience Vietnam's most iconic urban areas, natural landscapes and sun-soaked beaches.
2. 10, 13 or 15-Night Tour in Vietnam
You will journey to iconic locations that include Hanoi, Nghia Lo, the Tu Le Valley and Ho Chi Minh City when you book the 10, 13 or 15-Night Tour in Vietnam through Voyage Privé. Along the way, you will benefit from the knowledge of experienced local guides.
When you choose this booking for your Vietnam itinerary of 10 days, the price includes all transfers in a private, air-conditioned car, accommodation, and 1 night on a Ha Long Bay cruise.
What we like: We love the selection of stops on this wonderful tour package for an unforgettable holiday spent in Vietnam. From Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the country's most beautiful natural areas, you are sure to make lifelong memories when you choose this option.
3. 10-night Tour of Vietnam & Optional Beach Extension
The 10-night Tour of Vietnam & Optional Beach Extension is another excellent choice for a perfect 10-day itinerary spent in Southeast Asia. From visiting vibrant city centres to staring in awe at fantastic red and white sand dunes, this offers a unique travel opportunity for Voyage Privé members.
This booking includes your accommodation throughout your journey as well as meals as per your stated itinerary. It also includes a shared boat in Ha Long Bay and private return transfers.
What we like: We love this lineup of locations offered in this fantastic package that gives you the chance to see the various and contrasting sides of Vietnam.
4. 10, 13 or 15-Night Tour in Vietnam
If you are looking to discover the very best that Vietnam has to offer, we recommend choosing the 10, 13 or 15-Night Tour in Vietnam through Voyage Privé. It is another one of our top picks and will take you on an adventure to discover the sights, sounds, culture, landscapes and gastronomy of this magical country.
Stops that you will make during this fabulous trek across Vietnam include Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Ninh Binh, Thung Nham, Ha Long Bay and Hanoi.
What we like: We love the fact that this deal offers you the opportunity to extend your stay with a seaside location in Hoi An during the middle of the tour.
5. Luxury Vietnam Holiday 5*
The Luxury Vietnam Holiday 5* is an incredible tour that will take you across some of the country's top locations while enjoying the comfort of 5-star accommodation along the way.
This booking includes a trip to the ancient city of Hue, a cruise along Ha Long Bay and time spent on the stunning beaches of Da Nang. You will also enjoy a stay at the Vedana Lagoon Resort & Spa.
What we like: We love the focus on luxury travel that you will enjoy when you choose this option through the travel experts at Voyage Privé.
Practical tips for visiting Vietnam
A few things to note for your Vietnam itinerary of 10 days include the fact that the local currency is Vietnamese dong and the official language is Vietnamese. We recommend learning a few basic phrases in the language before you depart. You will also want to make sure you bring along comfortable clothing, swimwear and high-quality walking shoes. You also want to make sure that you choose the appropriate season for the types of activities that you want to engage in.
When to visit Vietnam
The best time to book a Vietnam itinerary of 10 days depends on what you want to do. January to June is the best time to visit the country's iconic beaches and avoid the rainy season. For those who can't stand the heat, November to April is generally cooler than the rest of the year, with January to March being the coolest months. It is also the best time to go if you want to see the pagodas and temples. If you prefer to explore the Mekong Delta and its vast rice fields, we recommend going around September and October, when the paddies turn from green to a golden hue.
How to get to Vietnam
Flights from major UK travel hubs generally take just over 11 hours of in-air time for direct flights to Vietnam. These flights can sometimes be hard to come by, and many travellers instead opt for routes with a stopover in Dubai, Turkey, Qatar or Bangkok. With these options, you can expect a flight time of around 16 hours. The majority of international flights will arrive at either Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang or Hanoi.
What to eat in Vietnam
During your Vietnam itinerary of 10 days, a few must-try local foods you should sample throughout your journey include pho, ga nuong, banh xeo, cha ca and goi cuon.