The Best Vietnam Highlights Tour 10 Day Itinerary

Duration icon Duration: 10D/9N
Trip code icon Trip Code: ORG-VNIO10
Map marker icon Best places to visit: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Hue → Da Nang → Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta

Overview

Vietnam is a country of striking contrasts, where ancient traditions blend in perfectly with modern life. The historic city of Hanoi, Ha Long Bay with its towering limestone karsts, Hue with its imperial past, Hoi An with its colorful lanterns, Ho Chi Minh City with its frenetic energy, and the tranquil waters of the Mekong Delta – all of them come together in a tour that encompasses the very essence of Vietnam.

The Vietnam Highlights Tour 10 Day Itinerary is a tour that has been crafted with travelers in mind who want to visit the most iconic destinations in Vietnam in a short time, without feeling rushed or pressured. The tour takes a traditional North-South route, covering all the cultural, natural, and lifestyle attractions in one smooth tour.

The tour has been crafted with first-time travelers as well as travelers who want a comprehensive overview of Vietnam in mind, offering a tour that is simply the perfect introduction to Vietnam’s history, landscapes, cuisine, and lifestyle.

Why Choose This Vietnam Highlights Tour 10 Day Itinerary?

The best duration for exploring the highlights of Vietnam would be ten days. This is an ideal duration that enables visitors to travel at a comfortable speed. This tour has been designed in a very careful manner so that visitors can avoid long transfers, repetition of sites, and can spend quality time at each place to experience the uniqueness of each place.

Unlike the fast pace of other tours that seek to cram as much as possible into a short space of time, this tour focuses on Vietnam’s best and most famous experiences, including a cruise in Ha Long Bay, the imperial heritage of Hue, the quaint charm of Hoi An Ancient Town, and the authentic river culture of the Mekong Delta.

Regardless of whether you’re a duo, a family, or a small group, this Vietnam Highlights Tour is a smooth combination of sightseeing, cultural exploration, and relaxing, which makes it one of the most popular and rewarding ways to explore Vietnam.

Highlights Of The Vietnam Highlights Tour 10 Day Itinerary

  • Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter and historical landmarks
  • Enjoy a traditional Water Puppet Show in Hanoi
  • Cruise overnight through the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay
  • Discover the Imperial Citadel and royal tombs of Hue
  • Travel along the scenic Hai Van Pass
  • Wander the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An Ancient Town
  • Visit Ba Na Hills and the iconic Golden Bridge in Da Nang
  • Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City
  • Take a boat trip through the Mekong Delta’s lush canals

Who Is This Vietnam Highlights Tour 10 Day Itinerary For?

  • First-time visitors to Vietnam
  • Travelers with limited time who want to see the country’s highlights
  • Couples and families seeking a balanced cultural journey
  • Travelers who prefer a classic North-to-South route
  • Those looking for a well-organized, stress-free Vietnam experience

Travel Tips For Vietnam

  • Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for warm and humid weather
  • Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for city tours and ancient towns
  • Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for this itinerary
  • Domestic flights help save time and keep the journey comfortable

Experience The Best Of Vietnam In 10 Days

From the historic center of Hanoi to the tranquil waterways of the Mekong Delta, the Vietnam Highlights Tour 10 Day Itinerary is a comprehensive and unforgettable experience. It is a well-paced trip that is full of experiences, allowing you to see the best of Vietnam while still having time to enjoy a little relaxation.

Vietnam Highlights Tour 10 Day Itinerary Map

Vietnam Highlights Tour 10 Day Itinerary Travel Map

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi - Old Quarter Discovery

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi - Old Quarter Discovery

Morning/Arrival

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and driven to your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Afternoon activities

Start your discovery of Vietnam with a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of Hanoi. Visit Ngoc Son Temple situated on a small island and linked by the famous red bridge.

Take a stroll through the surrounding streets to experience the local lifestyle and colonial architecture.

Evening activities

Free time to enjoy your first meal of Vietnamese cuisine. You may choose to dine at a local restaurant or simply sit at a café with a view of the lively streets of the Old Quarter.

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 2: Hanoi City Culture & Heritage (B/L)

Day 2: Hanoi City Culture & Heritage (B/L)

Morning activities

After breakfast, you can visit the most important cultural sites in Hanoi as follows:

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – outside visit
  • One Pillar Pagoda, the architectural icon of Hanoi
  • Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university

This gives you an overview of Vietnam’s political history, spirituality, and reverence for knowledge.

Afternoon activities

Next, take a walk through the French Quarter, characterized by wide boulevards and French colonial architecture, as opposed to the narrow streets of the Old Quarter.

Evening activities

In the evening, you can enjoy a traditional Water Puppet Show, a unique art form originating from the rice fields of northern Vietnam.

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 3: Hanoi - Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise (B/L/D)

Day 3: Hanoi - Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise (B/L/D)

Morning activities

Leave Hanoi and head towards Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its many limestone karsts that rise out of the emerald waters.

Afternoon activities

Board your boat and have lunch while cruising through this stunning landscape. Activities may include:

  • Kayaking or bamboo boat ride
  • Exploring limestone caves such as Sung Sot & Luon Cave

Evening activities

Watch the sunset from the sun deck, followed by dinner on board. Other activities may include squid fishing or stargazing.

Overnight on board

Day 4: Ha Long Bay - Flight to Central Vietnam (B/L)

Day 4: Ha Long Bay - Flight to Central Vietnam (B/L)

Morning activities

Wake up early and catch the sunrise over the bay. Take breakfast and continue your cruise in quieter parts of Ha Long Bay.

Afternoon activities

Disembark and take your transfer back to Hanoi for your domestic flight to central Vietnam. Upon arrival, continue your journey to Hue, the old imperial capital.

Evening activities

Free evening at leisure before commencing your exploration of Hue’s royal heritage.

Overnight in Hue

Day 5: Hue Imperial Legacy & Perfume River

Day 5: Hue Imperial Legacy & Perfume River

Morning activities

Visit the Imperial Citadel, where the Nguyen Dynasty once reigned. Stroll through old gates and royal buildings to gain insight into Vietnam’s imperial era.

Afternoon activities

Visit royal tombs like Minh Mang or Khai Dinh, which display different architectural styles and ideologies. Next, a boat ride along the Perfume River will give you a glimpse of Hue’s countryside.

Evening activities

Free time to try Hue’s local cuisine or at your hotel.

Overnight in Hue

Day 6: Hue - Hai Van Pass - Da Nang - Hoi An

Day 6: Hue - Hai Van Pass - Da Nang - Hoi An

Morning activities

Leaving Hue, we take the scenic route south via the Hai Van Pass, considered one of the most scenic drives along the Vietnamese coast, with views over the mountains and sea.

Afternoon activities

We visit Ba Na Hills in Da Nang, where we can see the famous Golden Bridge, held by giant stone hands. We can spend some time exploring the complex before heading to Hoi An.

Evening activities

We arrive in Hoi An and can enjoy a relaxing evening in the town.

Overnight in Hoi An

Day 7: Hoi An Ancient Town (B/L)

Day 7: Hoi An Ancient Town (B/L)

Morning Activities

Join a guided walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the places to visit are:

  • Japanese Covered Bridge
  • Tan Ky Old House
  • Traditional Assembly Halls and Temples

Afternoon Activities

Time at leisure to visit shops, galleries, or have a café along the river.

Evening Activities

As night falls, Hoi An is bathed with colorful lanterns that reflect on the water of the Thu Bon River. Time at leisure.

Overnight in Hoi An

Day 8: Hoi An - Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 8: Hoi An - Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

Morning activities

Transfer to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).

Afternoon activities

Some of the important landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City include:

  • Notre-Dame Cathedral (outside visit)
  • Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel

Get an overview of modern Vietnam’s history and urban living.

Evening activities

Free time to experience Saigon’s nightlife.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 9: Mekong Delta Experience

Day 9: Mekong Delta Experience

Morning Activities

Visit the Mekong Delta, called the “rice bowl of Vietnam.” Enjoy a boat trip in the region, cruising along a river lined with coconut trees, and watch life go by.

Afternoon Activities

Visit a workshop that makes coconut candy or handicrafts, and indulge in tropical fruits in season. In the late afternoon, return to Ho Chi Minh City.

Evening Activities

Free time at your own leisure.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City - Departure (B)

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City - Departure (B)

End of Vietnam Highlights Tour 10 Day Itinerary

Activities

Enjoy your last morning in Vietnam at your leisure. If time allows, visit Ben Thanh Market for some last minute shopping. Transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your onward flight.

Ready to turn this itinerary into your own journey?

Contact our travel experts today to customize your Vietnam Highlights Tour and start planning an unforgettable adventure.

Inclusions

  • PRIVATE door to door transport (new vehicle) with air-conditioned
  • Domestic Air Fare Hanoi – Hue: Da Nang – Ho Chi Minh (Priority Vietnam airline first)
  • Experience English speaking guide
  • Meals as mentioned above (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D = Dinner)
  • Great 3 star hotel with good location selected. Buffet Breakfast included at hotel
  • Luxury Cruise package 2days/1night with accommodation, kayak, entrance fee, meals on board, permission…
  • Private local boat in Hue and Mekong Delta
  • Cable car
  • Free visa letter to Vietnam (If yes expect difficult countries will have additional charge)
  • Entrance fees, permission
  • Mineral water daily 2 bottle 500ml/per day
  • 24/7 hotline support guaranteed
  • Gov tax and service charge
  • No extra charge after final confirmation

Exclusions

  • International Air Fare in & out Vietnam
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, soft & hard drinks
  • Individual expenses
  • All NOT mentioned in the program
  • Tips are welcomed!
  • 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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