Vietnam is a country that captivates travelers with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and incredible cuisine. If you’re planning your first trip to this Southeast Asian gem, a 10-day itinerary hitting the highlights is the perfect way to experience the best of what Vietnam has to offer. Here’s everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable Vietnamese adventure.
When to Visit: Timing Your Perfect Trip
The sweet spot for visiting Vietnam is between November and April, when the weather is most favorable across the country. I visited in early March and found the timing ideal, though there are a few things to keep in mind:
Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay) was comfortably cool, even slightly chilly at night. Perfect weather for exploring the bustling streets and taking that iconic cruise.
Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City) was already quite hot, so pack accordingly and plan indoor activities during the peak heat hours.
Pro tip: Check when Lunar New Year falls during your planned travel year, as this can significantly impact availability and prices.
Important consideration: Air quality in Northern Vietnam, particularly Hanoi, can be challenging. The city frequently ranks among the world’s most polluted, and even Ha Long Bay can appear hazy due to smog. If you have respiratory issues, this is worth factoring into your planning.
Essential Pre-Trip Planning
Visa Requirements
Don’t let visa applications stress you out! While third-party services can cost significantly more, the official Vietnamese government website processes visas for just $25 per person. The process typically takes 2-3 days once approved, but apply well in advance to avoid any airport complications.
Critical reminder: Double-check all dates on your visa application. Mistakes can cost you $200 in cash corrections at the airport!
Money Matters
Vietnam is still largely a cash-based society, especially for tips and small purchases. Make sure to withdraw cash before heading to remote areas like Ha Long Bay, where ATMs may be scarce.
Your 10-Day Itinerary Breakdown
Days 1-3: Hanoi – The Cultural Heart (3 nights)
Where to Stay: The Old Quarter is where you want to be. The Hanoi La Siesta Premier Hotel & Spa offers excellent service, fantastic breakfast, and crucially, airport pickup service. Despite being centrally located, it manages to stay relatively quiet at night.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Book a food tour immediately – Vietnam’s street food scene is legendary, and local guides will take you to places you’d never find on your own
- Explore the chaotic but charming streets of the Old Quarter
- Get a local SIM card (many hotels offer them for around $7 for 10 days)
Days 4-5: Ha Long Bay – Natural Wonder (2 nights cruise)
This UNESCO World Heritage site is absolutely unmissable, but choosing the right cruise can be overwhelming with hundreds of options available.
Cruise Selection Tips:
- Skip the day trips – opt for at least a 2-night cruise to truly appreciate the bay’s beauty
- Expect spotty WiFi, crowded waters, and a 10 p.m. noise curfew on all cruises
- Drinks are rarely included in “all-inclusive” packages
- Read reviews carefully and choose based on which negative aspects you can tolerate
Our Recommendation: Alova Door Cruise provided excellent service, good food, and attentive staff. The junior suite was pricey but worth it for those once-in-a-lifetime views.
Important Notes:
- Expect a 3% credit card fee (paying in cash is an option)
- Bring cash for tips and excursions
- Plan your departure carefully – it’s a 3-hour drive back to Hanoi airport
Days 6-7: Hoi An – The Tailor’s Paradise (2 nights)
Flying from Hanoi to Da Nang, then taking a 45-minute transfer to Hoi An, this UNESCO World Heritage town is famous for its lantern-lit streets and custom clothing.
Where to Stay: The Emerald Hoi An Riverside Resort offers a perfect location, free bicycle rentals, and excellent breakfast. Staying on the small island in the old town puts you in the heart of the action.
The Tailor Experience:
- Plan ahead! Research designs on Pinterest and save photos to your phone
- Email tailors in advance to confirm they can complete your order in your timeframe
- Expect multiple fittings over your stay
- Thao Thuong Tailor comes highly recommended for quality and professionalism
- Budget appropriately – while still affordable by Western standards, quality work isn’t the cheapest option
Day Trip Considerations: While there are excellent day trips available from Hoi An, the multiple tailor fittings required make it challenging to be away for extended periods.
Days 8-10: Ho Chi Minh City – The Urban Energy (3 nights)
Vietnam’s largest city offers a completely different energy from the northern destinations.
Getting Around: Use Mai Linh taxi from the airport – look for their counter right after baggage claim. They have fixed city prices, so no need to worry about overcharging.
Where to Stay: Choose accommodation near the river and within walking distance of major attractions. The Amandas Boutique Hotel offers great location near the Saigon Sky Deck and other popular spots.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Motorbike Food Tour: This is non-negotiable! Each person rides as a passenger on a motorbike, exploring hidden local eateries you’d never discover alone. Book the afternoon tour if visiting during cooler months, or evening tours during summer.
- Cu Chi Tunnels: A 2-hour drive from the city, but essential for understanding Vietnam War history from a Vietnamese perspective. While the bus quality can be hit-or-miss, the experience itself is invaluable.
Practical Tips for Success
Accommodation Strategy
Prioritize hotels offering airport pickup and drop-off services. This eliminates transportation stress and often proves more economical than arranging separate transfers.
Tour Planning
Many hotels partner with reputable tour companies. Ask your accommodation for recommendations during the planning stage – they often have insider knowledge of the best operators.
Connectivity
Having Google Maps access is crucial in Vietnam. Either get a local SIM card or ensure your international plan covers data usage.
Cultural Considerations
Vietnamese hospitality is legendary, but showing respect for local customs and being patient with language barriers goes a long way in enhancing your experience.
What We’d Add Next Time
If you have more time (2-3 weeks), consider adding:
- Sapa: For incredible rice terrace trekking
- Ninh Binh: Vietnam’s “Halong Bay on land” with stunning karst landscapes
Final Thoughts
Vietnam offers an incredible diversity of experiences in just 10 days. From the bustling energy of Hanoi’s streets to the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay, the historic charm of Hoi An, and the urban excitement of Ho Chi Minh City, each destination offers something completely unique.
The key to a successful trip is balancing planning with flexibility. Book accommodations and major experiences in advance, but leave room for spontaneous discoveries – some of the best travel memories come from unexpected moments.
Vietnam will challenge your senses, expand your perspective, and leave you planning your return visit before you’ve even left. Pack your sense of adventure and get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating countries.
Happy travels, and don’t forget to try the pho!