10 days in Vietnam itinerary is a great opportunity to experience the culture, history, and natural beauty of this Southeast Asian country. From bustling cities to tranquil rural areas, Vietnam offers a diverse range of destinations to explore. Here are some highlights that you might consider including in your itinerary:
Day 1-2: Hanoi the capital city of Vietnam
Day 1
Explore the capital city, visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature, and enjoy the street food culture of Hanoi.
- Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: This is the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of modern Vietnam. You can pay your respects to him and learn about his life and legacy.
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Ho Chi Minh Museum Explore the Temple of Literature: This is Vietnam’s first university and a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture.
- Walk around the Old Quarter: The Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets and alleys that are packed with shops, restaurants, and street vendors. It’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere of Hanoi and try some of the city’s famous street food.
- Watch a Water Puppet Show: This traditional form of Vietnamese entertainment dates back to the 11th century and is a must-see for any visitor to Hanoi.
Hanoi day 1 trip cost
- Take a walking tour of the Old Quarter: Free or $5-10 for a guided tour
- Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum: Free entrance
- Watch a water puppet show: $5-10
- Accommodation: $20-50
- Food and drinks: $15-25
- Transportation: $5-10
Total cost for day 7: $60-105
Day 2:
- Visit Hoan Kiem Lake: This picturesque lake is located in the heart of Hanoi and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. You can walk around the lake, visit the Ngoc Son Temple, and take a stroll across the red bridge.
- Explore the French Quarter: This area of Hanoi was built during the French colonial period and features beautiful architecture, wide boulevards, and charming cafes.
- Visit the Hanoi Opera House: This is one of the most iconic buildings in Hanoi and a great place to catch a show or concert.
- Eat at a street food market: Hanoi is famous for its street food, and there are many markets and stalls where you can try local delicacies like pho, bun cha, and banh mi.
Hanoi day 2 trip cost
- Visit Temple of Literature: $2
- Visit Hoa Lo Prison Museum: $2
- Visit Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: $2-3
- Accommodation: $20-50
- Food and drinks: $15-25
- Transportation: $5-10
These are just a few ideas for your first two days in Hanoi. There is so much to see and do in the city, so don’t be afraid to explore and discover new things!
Day 3-4: Halong Bay – a UNESCO World Heritage
Take a cruise in Halong Bay, one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world, and explore the limestone caves and grottos.
Halong Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam, and for good reason. The bay is famous for its stunning scenery, with thousands of limestone karsts rising out of the emerald waters. Here’s what you can do during your two days in Halong Bay:
Day 3:
- Take a cruise: There are many cruise operators in Halong Bay that offer day trips or overnight stays. A cruise is the best way to see the bay and explore some of the caves and grottoes. You can also try kayaking, swimming, or simply relax on the deck and take in the view.
- Visit Sung Sot Cave: This is one of the largest and most impressive caves in Halong Bay, with stunning rock formations and colorful lights.
Halong bay day 1 trip cost
- Take a day cruise in Ha Long Bay: $30-50 (depending on the tour company)
- Accommodation: $20-50
- Food and drinks: $15-25
- Transportation: $10-20
Total cost for day 9: $75-145
Day 4:
- Watch the sunrise: Wake up early and watch the sunrise over the bay. This is a magical experience that you won’t forget.
- Visit Cat Ba Island: Cat Ba is the largest island in Halong Bay and a great place to explore. You can hike in the national park, visit the floating villages, or relax on one of the beaches.
- Return to Hanoi: After a full day of exploring Halong Bay, return to Hanoi in the evening.
These two days will give you a taste of the beauty and serenity of Halong Bay. Of course, you can choose to spend more time in the area if you have it!
Day 5-6: Hoi An – a old charming coastal town
Visit the ancient town of Hoi An, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can explore the ancient temples, the Japanese covered bridge, and shop at the colorful markets.
Hoi An is a charming ancient town located in central Vietnam. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its well-preserved historic buildings and its mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese cultures. Here’s what you can do during your two days in Hoi An:
Day 5:
- Explore the Old Town: Hoi An’s Old Town is a maze of narrow streets and alleys that are lined with historic buildings, temples, and museums. You can wander around the town, taking in the sights and sounds, and stop at some of the many cafes and restaurants.
- Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge: This iconic bridge was built in the 16th century and is one of Hoi An’s most recognizable landmarks.
- Visit the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture: This museum showcases the history and culture of Hoi An and is housed in a beautifully restored building.
Hoi An day 1 trip cost
- Explore the old town: Free entrance
- Take a cooking class: $20-40
- Relax on the beach: Free or small fee for sun loungers
- Accommodation: $20-50
- Food and drinks: $15-25
- Transportation: $10-20
Total cost for day 3: $65-135
Day 6:
- Take a cooking class: Hoi An is famous for its cuisine, and taking a cooking class is a great way to learn about the local ingredients and cooking techniques. You can even visit a local market to buy ingredients before starting the class.
- Visit My Son Sanctuary: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is located about an hour’s drive from Hoi An. My Son is a complex of Hindu temples that were built between the 4th and 14th centuries.
- Relax on the beach: Hoi An is located on the coast, and there are many beautiful beaches nearby. You can spend the afternoon lounging on the sand, swimming in the ocean, or trying some water sports.
Hoi An day 2 trip cost
- Take a bike ride to the countryside: $5-10 (bike rental)
- Visit My Son Sanctuary: $10-15 (depending on the tour company)
- Accommodation: $20-50
- Food and drinks: $15-25
- Transportation: $10-20
Total cost for day 4: $70-120
These two days will give you a taste of the beauty and charm of Hoi An. Of course, there are many other things to see and do in the area, so feel free to explore and discover new experiences!
Day 7-8: Hue – the former imperial capital of Vietnam
Explore the former capital of Vietnam, Hue, and visit the Imperial Citadel and the Tombs of the Emperors.
Hue is a historic city located in central Vietnam, and it was the imperial capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty. The city is known for its impressive monuments and its rich history. Here’s what you can do during your two days in Hue:
Day 7:
- Visit the Imperial City: The Imperial City is a walled fortress that was the home of the emperors during the Nguyen Dynasty. The complex includes palaces, temples, and gardens, and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in Vietnamese history.
- Take a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River: The Perfume River is a scenic river that runs through the heart of Hue. Taking a dragon boat ride is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
- Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda: This pagoda is one of the most famous landmarks in Hue and is located on a hill overlooking the Perfume River. The pagoda was built in the 17th century and is still an active Buddhist monastery.
Hue day 1 trip cost
- Visit Imperial Citadel: $5
- Take a boat trip on Perfume River: $15-20
- Accommodation: $20-50
- Food and drinks: $15-25
- Transportation: $10-20
Total cost for day 5: $65-120
Day 8:
- Visit the tombs of the Nguyen Emperors: There are several tombs of the Nguyen Emperors located in the countryside around Hue. Each tomb has its own unique architecture and design, and they are a testament to the opulence of the Nguyen Dynasty.
- Visit the Dong Ba Market: This is Hue’s largest market and a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothing, and food. You can try some of the local specialties like banh khoai and bun bo Hue.
- Explore the Hue Citadel: The Hue Citadel is another impressive fortified complex that was built to protect the city from invaders. The citadel has many interesting buildings and gardens, including the Forbidden Purple City.
Hue day 2 trip cost
- Visit Thien Mu Pagoda: Free entrance
- Visit Tomb of Khai Dinh: $5
- Visit Tomb of Minh Mang: $5
- Accommodation: $20-50
- Food and drinks: $15-25
- Transportation: $10-20
Total cost for day 6: $55-105
These two days will give you a taste of the rich history and culture of Hue. Of course, there are many other things to see and do in the area, so feel free to explore and discover new experiences!
Day 9-10: Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam’s largest city
Finish your trip in the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon. Visit the War Remnants Museum, Cu Chi Tunnels, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife and street food culture.
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and is located in the south. The city is a vibrant and bustling metropolis with a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic landmarks. Here’s what you can do during your two days in Ho Chi Minh City:
Day 9:
- Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels: The Cu Chi Tunnels are a network of underground tunnels that were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. You can take a tour of the tunnels and learn about the history and tactics of the Viet Cong.
- Visit the War Remnants Museum: This museum documents the history of the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese perspective. The exhibits include photographs, artifacts, and personal stories from the war.
- Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office: These two iconic buildings are located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City and are both great examples of French colonial architecture.
Day 10:
- Visit the Ben Thanh Market: This is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s oldest and most famous markets. You can find everything from souvenirs to clothing to food. Bargaining is expected, so be prepared to haggle!
- Visit the Reunification Palace: This palace was the home of the president of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War and is now a museum. The palace has many interesting rooms and exhibits that showcase the history of the war.
- Take a stroll in the Nguyen Hue Walking Street: This pedestrian street is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. There are many cafes, restaurants, and shops along the street, and it’s a great place to people-watch and take in the energy of the city.
These two days will give you a taste of the history, culture, and energy of Ho Chi Minh City. Of course, there are many other things to see and do in the area, so feel free to explore and discover new experiences!
This itinerary gives you a taste of the diverse culture, history, and natural beauty of Vietnam in just 10 days. Of course, you can adjust it based on your interests and preferences.