Vietnam In 10 Days: The Ultimate Highlights From North To South

Is 10 Days in Vietnam Too Short?

It’s just right if you know where to go.

Ten days may not cover every corner, but it’s long enough to dive deep into Vietnam’s top experiences without feeling rushed. The key is using domestic flights to maximize time and choosing destinations that offer distinct vibes. From the chaos of Hanoi to the charm of Hoi An, and the grandeur of Halong Bay to the serenity of the Mekong Delta, this route balances adventure with relaxation.

The itinerary below mirrors the expertly curated Amazing 10-Day Vietnam Highlights tour by Asia Mystic Travel, adding local insights and travel tips to enrich your experience.

Day-by-Day: Your Vietnam in 10 Days Itinerary from North to South

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi - Dive Into the Capital’s Pulse

Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel in the lively Old Quarter. After settling in, join your local guide for a walking street food tour that dives straight into the flavors of the city.

Sample bún chả, bánh cuốn, and nộm bò khô (dried beef salad) at tucked-away eateries, then cool off with Hanoi’s signature fruit cup topped with crushed ice and condensed milk (hoa quả dầm).

End the evening at a hidden café, sipping cà phê trứng (egg coffee) - an iconic Hanoian treat - while the chaos of scooters and street life buzzes just below.

Day 2: Journey into the Karst Kingdom - Hoa Lu & Tam Coc Exploration

Leave Hanoi for a day trip to Ninh Binh, where natural beauty meets deep history.

Start with a visit to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, where centuries-old temples sit beneath dramatic limestone peaks. Enjoy a countryside lunch in Tam Coc, then glide along the Ngo Dong River in a hand-rowed sampan, drifting through caves and rice fields. In the afternoon, take a leisurely bike ride through quiet village paths, surrounded by karsts and local life.

Day 3: Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise Adventure

Leave the city behind and journey through the Red River Delta to the coast, where your Halong Bay cruise begins.

Settle into your cabin and enjoy lunch on deck as limestone islands emerge from the emerald sea. Spend the afternoon kayaking into hidden lagoons or exploring limestone caves, then unwind on the sundeck as the sun dips below the horizon.

A freshly prepared seafood dinner awaits before you fall asleep to the quiet rhythm of the bay, surrounded by surreal karst formations. Remember to pack an overnight bag separately - your main luggage stays on land.

Day 4: From Bay to Rails - A Shift Toward Imperial Hue

Wake to a peaceful Halong sunrise and savor breakfast as the boat glides through the final stretch of towering karsts. After an early lunch and disembarkation, journey back to Hanoi by car.

The afternoon is yours; you can sip one last egg coffee or wander the Old Quarter. As night falls, board the sleeper train bound for Hue, rocking gently southward toward Vietnam’s royal legacy.

Day 5: Imperial Echoes – A Full Day in Hue

Arrive in Hue and transfer to your hotel for check-in. After a leisurely breakfast, begin your day with a deep dive into history at the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site where moated walls and royal halls echo the legacy of Vietnam’s last dynasty.

Next, board a traditional dragon boat and cruise along the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda, the city’s iconic spiritual landmark.

Wrap up the day wandering through Dong Ba Market, where colorful stalls buzz with local life and flavors. Don't miss trying Hue’s specialty like bánh bèo or nem lụi while you’re in town. At the end of the day, return to your hotel for a relaxing night in the heart of central Vietnam.

Day 6: Hue to Hoi An - Coastal Roads & Lantern Streets

After breakfast, hit the road toward Hoi An via the scenic Hai Van Pass, where mountains meet the sea. Stop along the way to explore the Cham Museum and the Marble Mountains in Da Nang - both rich in history and striking beauty. Arrive in Hoi An for a delicious local lunch, then check into your hotel and enjoy some downtime.

In the afternoon, wander through the lantern-lit Old Quarter, visiting historic landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and Tan Ky House. The town’s blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese influences makes every corner photo-worthy.

Pro Tip: Shop for tailor-made clothes - Hoi An is famous for fast, quality custom tailoring.

Day 7: My Son Sanctuary – Ruins, Riverside & Local Life

Start your day with a morning trip to My Son Sanctuary, the ancient spiritual heart of the Champa Kingdom. Wander through moss-covered ruins set in a lush jungle valley and feel centuries of history in every carved stone.

Return to Hoi An by noon and enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace. Lounge on the beach, shop for handmade crafts, or stroll the riverside lanes once bustling with merchant ships. For something special, take a boat ride to a nearby fishing village to glimpse real local life, then catch the sunset over the Dai estuary, where sky and water glow gold.

Pro Tip: Visit My Son early to beat the heat and tour buses.

Day 8: Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh – Land of Lights & Local Bites

Fly from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City, where colonial charm collides with skyscrapers and street buzz. After check-in and a short rest, head out for a soft intro to the south.

Take a walk around Nguyen Hue Walking Street, visit the elegant Central Post Office, and grab a cold drink near Notre-Dame Cathedral. As evening falls, dive into the local vibe at Ben Thanh Market, where you can sample southern-style bánh mì or a sizzling plate of cơm tấm.

Pro Tip: Ho Chi Minh stays lively late. Explore at your own pace or join a food tour by scooter for a deeper taste of the city.

Day 9: Mekong Delta – Coconut Groves & Quiet Canals

After breakfast, leave the city behind for a day in the lush Ben Tre Province, heart of the Mekong Delta.

Visit tropical orchards and sample fresh fruit right at the source. Watch how locals make coconut candy and woven mats using age-old techniques. Ride a xe lôi (motor cart) through peaceful village roads, then enjoy a riverside lunch with classic delta dishes.

In the afternoon, drift along palm-shaded canals on a hand-rowed sampan, soaking in the slow rhythm of delta life. Return to Saigon by early evening, with free time to explore or unwind.

Pro Tip: Bring cash. There are no ATMs in the coconut groves, and grandma’s candy shop doesn’t take Visa.

Day 10: Departure

Enjoy a slow morning with breakfast at your hotel. If time allows, squeeze in some last-minute shopping or simply relax with a coffee and soak in the final vibes of Saigon. When it’s time, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your flight home.

You can buy some local snacks like dried mango or lotus seeds for easy, delicious souvenirs.

Cost & Crowds

Cost Breakdown for 10 Days in Vietnam

Vietnam offers great value for travelers across all budgets. For a mid-range trip that includes domestic flights, guided tours, a Halong Bay cruise, and nice hotels, you can expect:

In total, a comfortable 10-day trip to Vietnam typically costs $800–$1,400 per person, excluding international airfare. This covers well-located hotels, key domestic flights, guided experiences, great food, and a Halong Bay cruise, without breaking the bank.

Want everything arranged for you, stress-free? Check out our Amazing 10-Day Vietnam Highlights Tour. We take care of the details so you can focus on the journey.

When to Go & Where Crowds Gather

Vietnam has two peak seasons:

• December–February: Cool, dry in the north; festive and great for Halong, Hue, and Hoi An
• June–August: Summer holidays bring more local crowds, especially to beaches

To avoid crowds, aim for March–May or September-November when the weather is pleasant and tourist traffic is lighter.

Expect crowds at:

• Halong Bay cruises (especially weekends)
• Hoi An Ancient Town in the evening
• Hanoi’s Old Quarter during holidays and weekends

Pro tip: Book popular experiences like cruises and domestic flights at least 2–3 weeks ahead in high season.

Insider Tips for Your Vietnam in 10 Days Trip

A few smart tips can turn a great trip into an unforgettable one:

• Pack for Variety: Vietnam stretches over 1,600 km, expect different climates. Bring layers for cooler spots like Hue and Halong Bay, and light, breathable clothing for Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City.
• Shoes Matter: You’ll be walking a lot, especially on cobblestones, uneven streets, and trails, so good footwear is a must.
• Cash is King (Sometimes): Most cities accept cards, but in places like the Mekong or local markets, cash is the way to go. Small notes help!
• Stay Flexible: Vietnam loves the unexpected. A rainstorm, a street parade, or a spontaneous food stall find might just become your favorite memory.
• Learn a Few Local Words: Even a simple “Xin chào” (hello) or “Cảm ơn” (thank you) earns smiles everywhere you go.

FAQs

Q: Is 10 days enough to see Vietnam properly?

A: Yes! This itinerary takes you through the country’s top highlights from north to south without feeling rushed. It's a perfect taste of Vietnam's diversity.

Q: What’s the best time for this 10-day trip?

A: March–May and September–November offer great weather with fewer crowds, making it ideal for a north-to-south itinerary.

Q: Can I customize this itinerary?

A: Absolutely! We can tailor any part of the trip to fit your style, interests, or pace. Just contact Asia Mystic Travel and let us know how you’d like to personalize your 10-day Vietnam journey. We’ll make it effortless.

Q: Is Wi-Fi available across Vietnam?

A: Yes, most hotels, cafés, and even transport services offer Wi-Fi. For rural areas, consider grabbing a local SIM card for reliable data.

Q: How do I apply for a Vietnam visa?

A: Vietnam offers a fast e-visa system. It’s easy to apply online, and we can assist you with urgent visa processing (as fast as 1 hour if needed).

Vietnam in 10 days gives you a taste of everything - vibrant cities, peaceful countryside, stunning coastlines, and rich culture. It’s the perfect intro to the country, packed with unforgettable moments without feeling rushed. Let Asia Mystic Travel handle the details so you can simply enjoy the ride.

>>> Start your Vietnam in 10 Days adventure HERE

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