The Best Vietnam 10 Day Itinerary

Duration icon Duration: 10D/9N
Trip code icon Trip Code: ORG-VNI10
Map marker icon Best places to visit: Tour start from HanoiHa Giang (Quan BaDong VanLung CuMa Pi LengMeo VacYen Minh) → Halong bayHo Chi MinhMekong delta (Ben TreCan Tho) → End tour in Ho Chi Minh

Overview

This Vietnam 10 Day Itinerary has been crafted specifically for those who are looking to have a rich and authentic experience in Vietnam, traveling from North to South. With a mix of culture, stunning mountain scenery, a famous bay cruise, and a river experience in the Mekong Delta, this itinerary really does have something for everyone.

After exploring the famous streets of Hanoi, this adventure takes off northwards to the stunning province of Ha Giang, which offers some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Vietnam. From here, an overnight cruise in the famous Ha Long Bay, followed by a flight to the southern city of Ho Chi Minh and the fertile waters of the Mekong Delta, round out this fantastic adventure.

This Vietnam 10 Day Itinerary is perfect for the adventurous, photographers, and those who are looking to see a different side of Vietnam, while still enjoying a smooth and comfortable travel experience.

Why Choose This Vietnam 10 Day Itinerary?

This Vietnam 10 Day Itinerary has been crafted for travelers who want to experience Vietnam in-depth without sacrificing a smooth and comfortable travel experience. The logical north-to-south route eliminates wasted travel time and unnecessary backtracking to ensure you have the most time to appreciate the experiences along the way.

What sets this Vietnam 10 Day Itinerary apart from others is the inclusion of Ha Giang – Vietnam’s most spectacular mountain area. From mountain passes to river canyons, this region offers a raw side of Vietnam that few other itineraries offer.

With an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay, a domestic flight to the south, and plenty of time to soak up the experiences in Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, this Vietnam 10 Day Itinerary offers the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation for travelers seeking experiences instead of sightseeing.

Vietnam 10 Day Itinerary – Highlights

  • Explore Hanoi cultural landmarks and the bustling Old Quarter
  • Explore the legendary Ha Giang Loop: Quan Ba, Dong Van, Lung Cu, Ma Pi Leng Pass, and Meo Vac
  • Stay overnight in ethnic minority villages and experience homestays
  • Cruise overnight on Ha Long Bay with kayaking, caves, and sunset views
  • Explore the dynamic combination of history and modernity in Ho Chi Minh City
  • Explore the authentic Mekong Delta region of Ben Tre and Can Tho, including Cai Rang Floating Market

Who Is This Vietnam 10 Day Itinerary For?

  • For the first-time visitor who wants to experience everything Vietnam has to offer, from the north to the south.
  • For the adventurous traveler who wants to experience Vietnam’s most spectacular mountain scenery.
  • For the cultural enthusiast who wants to explore Vietnam’s ethnic minority communities.
  • For couples or small groups who want an authentic yet comfortable experience.
  • For photographers or nature enthusiasts who want to capture Vietnam’s most iconic or off-the-beaten-path scenery.
  • For those who prefer quality over quantity in their sightseeing experience.

Travel Tips for Vietnam

  • Lightweight and breathable clothing for hot and humid weather
  • Bring a light jacket for cooler nights in Ha Giang’s mountainous regions
  • Comfortable walking shoes for walking in mountainous regions and cities
  • Early morning hours for photography and popular spots
  • The best time for this trip is all year round, with the best weather between March and May, and September and November

Experience the Best of Vietnam in 10 Days

Vietnam is a land that combines the rich history and culture of its ancient cities like Hanoi, with the untamed beauty and adventure of its mountain passes like Ha Giang, and the peaceful serenity and tranquility of its emerald waters like Ha Long Bay and the Mekong Delta River.

The 10 Day Vietnam Itinerary combines all of Vietnam’s most unforgettable experiences into a single seamless journey that is carefully paced, thoughtfully curated, and filled with authentic experiences that allow you to not only see Vietnam but feel it too.

Vietnam 10 Day Itinerary Travel Map

Vietnam 10 Day Itinerary Travel Map

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival & First Impressions

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival & First Impressions

Morning activities

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and then transferred to your hotel in the center of Hanoi. After your long trip, you will be free to relax and rest at your leisure. Early check-in at the hotel is possible upon request.

Afternoon activities

Time for free exploration at your own leisure. You may take a leisurely walk in your neighborhood or enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling streets of Hanoi.

Evening activities

Dinner at your leisure. You may opt to venture out into the Old Quarter on your own and experience the sights and sounds of Hanoi in the evening.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi City Highlights & Street Food Experience (B/L/D)

Day 2: Hanoi City Highlights & Street Food Experience (B/L/D)

Morning activities

Your full-day city tour of Hanoi begins with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, including the Presidential Palace (outside), One Pillar Pagoda, and the historic Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university.

Afternoon activities

After a lunch break at a local restaurant, you will resume your city tour of Hoan Kiem Lake and Old Quarter. Next, you will visit Hanoi’s popular Train Street, offering a fascinating insight into local living. After that, you will enjoy a water puppet show, a traditional art form of northern Vietnam.

Evening activities

You will take a street food walking tour of the Old Quarter with a guide. This will offer you a chance to try authentic street food in Hanoi while learning about its culinary culture.

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 3: Hanoi - Ha Giang - Quan Ba (B/L/D)

Day 3: Hanoi - Ha Giang - Quan Ba (B/L/D)

Morning activities

Leave early from Hanoi to head to Ha Giang Province. As you head north from Hanoi, you will see a change from flat countryside to mountainous scenery.

Afternoon activities

After arriving in Ha Giang around midday, have your lunch at a restaurant. Visit Ha Giang Milestone No.0 before heading to Quan Ba. Visit Quan Ba Heaven Gate to get a bird’s eye view of Tam Son Valley and see the famous Twin Mountains.

Evening activities

Check into a traditional homestay in Nam Dam Village. Have a home-cooked meal and get a chance to engage with locals to see how ethnic minority groups live.

Overnight in Ha Giang (homestay)

Day 4: Quan Ba - Dong Van Karst Plateau (B/L/D)

Day 4: Quan Ba - Dong Van Karst Plateau (B/L/D)

Morning activities

After breakfast, a visit can be made to Lung Tam Weaving Village, where one can learn about the traditional Hmong hemp weaving techniques that have been passed down through the years.

Afternoon activities

The tour can continue on a scenic drive along the mountain roads, passing by Tham Ma and Chin Khoanh Passes. The tour can continue further into the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark recognized for its unique limestone scenery. A visit can also be made to the Hmong King’s Palace, a historical building that showcases the ethnicity of the people.

Evening activities

Arrival in Dong Van Town, where dinner can be had at a local eatery, followed by free time at Dong Van Old Quarter.

Overnight in Dong Van

Day 5: Dong Van - Lung Cu - Ma Pi Leng Pass - Meo Vac - Yen Minh (B/L/D)

Day 5: Dong Van - Lung Cu - Ma Pi Leng Pass - Meo Vac - Yen Minh (B/L/D)

Morning activities

Visit Lo Lo Chai Village located at the foot of Lung Cu Mountain and then ascend Lung Cu Flag Tower, the northernmost point in Vietnam, which provides a panoramic view of the border area.

Afternoon activities

Drive on the famous Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of the most spectacular roads in Vietnam, which looks down on the canyon carved by the Nho Que River. Take a boat trip on the Nho Que River before having lunch in Meo Vac and continue exploring Pa Vi Village.

Evening activities

Arrive in Yen Minh and stay overnight in a homestay, having dinner with the host family.

Overnight in Yen Minh

Day 6: Yen Minh - Ha Giang - Hanoi (B/L)

Day 6: Yen Minh - Ha Giang - Hanoi (B/L)

Morning activities

In case you are visiting on a Sunday, consider visiting Yen Minh Market, which is very colorful. Continue your journey back towards Ha Giang, appreciating the beauty of the mountains and villages on your way back.

Afternoon activities

Have your lunch in Ha Giang and then visit the tea hills before heading back towards Hanoi. Reach Hanoi in the evening and check into your hotel.

Evening

Dinner is at leisure.

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 7: Hanoi - Ha Long Bay Cruise (B/L/D)

Day 7: Hanoi - Ha Long Bay Cruise (B/L/D)

Morning activities

Depart for Ha Long Bay from Hanoi. Upon arrival, board the luxury cruise for a welcome drink and cabin allocation.

Afternoon activities

Cruise around Ha Long Bay amidst emerald waters and limestone karst formations. Visit Luon Cave via a kayak or bamboo boat, then head for Titov Island for a view or swim.

Evening activities

Sunset party then dinner on board the cruise. Other activities for the evening may include squid fishing or stargazing.

Overnight on cruise

Day 8: Ha Long Bay - Hanoi: Flight to Ho Chi Minh City (B/L)

Day 8: Ha Long Bay - Hanoi: Flight to Ho Chi Minh City (B/L)

Morning activities

The day starts with Tai Chi on the sundeck, followed by a visit to Sung Sot (Surprising) Cave before enjoying brunch on board.

Afternoon activities

Disembark and transfer to Hanoi airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Evening activities

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City and transfer to your hotel. The evening is free for relaxation or exploring the city.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 9: Mekong Delta - Ben Tre & Ba Lai River (B/L)

Day 9: Mekong Delta - Ben Tre & Ba Lai River (B/L)

Morning activities

Travel to Ben Tre Province. Cruise through palm-lined waterways on a traditional boat, watching riverside life go by.

Afternoon activities

Visit coconut candy-making workshops, brick-making factories, and handicraft villages. Have lunch in a garden setting with local specialties from the Mekong Delta. Cruise further up the Ba Lai River before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

Evening activities

Free time to explore Ho Chi Minh City at night.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City Tour & Departure (B/L)

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City Tour & Departure (B/L)

Morning activities

Visit the following places: Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral (outside), and Ben Thanh Market.

Afternoon activities

Have lunch at a local restaurant and then transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for departure.

End of Vietnam 10 Day Itinerary

Here is a Vietnam 10 day itinerary with a balance of culture, nature, and authentic local experiences from North to South Vietnam. This is a private tour, so there is flexibility in route, activities, and accommodation for a comfortable and immersive travel experience.

Get in touch with us today to tailor your private itinerary and we’ll get a detailed with pricing for you.

Inclusions

  • PRIVATE door to door transport (new vehicle) with air-conditioned
  • Experience English speaking guide
  • Meals as mentioned above as Vietnamese food set menu (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D = Dinner)
  • Hotel 3 star (1 double/twin room for 2  people) or Homestay in mountain area – 01 private room for 2 people (Some will have share bathroom with family)
  • Local boat in  Nho Que River, Mekong Delta
  • Verdure Grandeur Cruise 5 star to Halong Bay or similar
  • Domestic flight ticket Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh
  • Entrance fees
  • Mineral water daily 2 bottle 500ml/per day
  • Bank fees if payment by credit card
  • Gov tax and service charge
  • No extra charge after final confirmation

Exclusions

  • International flight ticket in & our Hanoi
  • E-Visa entry Vietnam, you can make directly by yourself in Immigration website: https://thithucdientu.gov.vn or https://evisa.gov.vn
  • Individual expenses
  • Drinks and meals not mentioned in the program
  • Tips are welcomed for our guide and driver
  • Travel Insurance

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Meet Our Local Experts

Ms Angela - Vietnam Travel Expert

Ms Angela

Ms Lucy - Vietnam Travel Consultant

Ms Lucy

Ms. Angela & Ms. Lucy are our experts for this itinerary and as seasoned travellers they have the inside track on the most memorable adventures.

All are tailor-made tours from Origin Travel Team

This itinerary is designed to give you the best local experience we can create in Vietnam!

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