Ten to 14 days is a great length for a Vietnam trip, with stops in Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hanoi, Hue, and Ha Long Bay. It’s also possible to hit the highlights in eight or nine days if you don’t mind a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some of our favorite itinerary extensions include Ninh Binh, Can Tho, Pu Luong, and Siem Reap. Keep reading for more inspiring itineraries.
## Unveiling the Beauty of Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hanoi, Hue & Ha Long Bay – A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Planning a trip to Vietnam and wondering how much time to dedicate to its most captivating destinations? This guide provides comprehensive itinerary suggestions and insights into experiencing the magic of Ho Chi Minh City, the historical charm of Hoi An, the bustling energy of Hanoi, the imperial grandeur of Hue, and the breathtaking landscapes of Ha Long Bay. Let’s delve into crafting the perfect Vietnamese adventure, tailored to your desired pace and interests.
**How Many Days Are Ideal for Exploring Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hanoi, Hue & Ha Long Bay?**
The optimal duration for a fulfilling journey encompassing Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hanoi, Hue, and Ha Long Bay generally falls between 10 and 14 days. This timeframe allows for a comfortable exploration of each location, balancing iconic landmarks with immersive cultural experiences.
Attempting to condense your visit to Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hanoi, Hue, and Ha Long Bay into a shorter timeframe, such as 8 or 9 days, is indeed possible. However, be prepared for a whirlwind experience, where you might feel rushed and unable to fully savor the unique atmosphere of each destination. Prioritization becomes crucial, focusing on must-see attractions and accepting that some experiences will have to be skipped.
For those fortunate enough to have 15 days or more, the opportunity arises to expand your Vietnamese adventure beyond the core destinations. Many travelers opt to enrich their itinerary with additional stops, delving deeper into the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural tapestry.
Popular extensions to a Vietnam itinerary include venturing to Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land” for its stunning limestone karsts rising from rice paddies. Exploring the lush waterways and vibrant floating markets of Can Tho in the Mekong Delta offers a fascinating glimpse into local life. Escaping to the tranquility of Pu Luong, a nature reserve characterized by terraced rice fields and traditional villages, provides a refreshing contrast to the bustling cities. Alternatively, a cross-border excursion to Siem Reap in Cambodia unveils the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor, adding an extra layer of historical and cultural significance to your journey.
**Recommended Itineraries for Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hanoi, Hue & Ha Long Bay**
Let’s explore some carefully curated itineraries designed to maximize your experience in Vietnam, balancing iconic sights with opportunities for cultural immersion.
**Recommended Itinerary for 10 Days**
This itinerary provides a taste of Vietnam’s diverse offerings, starting in the north and working its way south, ending in the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 1:** Arrive in Hanoi and begin exploring this captivating capital city. Immerse yourself in the Old Quarter’s vibrant streets, sample delicious street food, and soak in the city’s unique atmosphere. Overnight in Hanoi.
* **Day 2:** Embark on a bicycle tour through rural villages surrounding Hanoi, offering a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese life. In the afternoon, delve into the cultural heart of Hanoi with a guided tour of its historical landmarks, such as the Temple of Literature and Hoan Kiem Lake. Overnight in Hanoi.
* **Day 3:** Journey from Hanoi to the spectacular Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Board an overnight cruise and prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning scenery of emerald waters and towering limestone karsts. Overnight in Ha Long Bay.
* **Day 4:** Wake up to breathtaking views in Ha Long Bay. Enjoy further exploration of the bay before returning to Hanoi. From Hanoi, transfer to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Overnight in Hue.
* **Day 5:** Discover the imperial city of Hue with a guided tour of the Citadel, a sprawling complex of palaces, temples, and gardens. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely boat and bike ride to explore the rural villages surrounding Hue, gaining insights into local life and traditions. Overnight in Hue.
* **Day 6:** Travel from Hue to Da Nang, and then transfer to the charming town of Hoi An. Begin your exploration of Hoi An with a sightseeing tour, admiring its well-preserved architecture and unique cultural heritage. Overnight in Hoi An.
* **Day 7:** Immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to fishing villages near Hoi An, learning about traditional fishing techniques. Afterward, delve deeper into Hoi An’s history and culture with a guided tour of the town, including its iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and ancient merchant houses. Overnight in Hoi An.
* **Day 8:** Fly from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest and most dynamic city. Experience the city from a unique perspective with a Vespa tour, navigating its bustling streets and exploring hidden gems. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 9:** Escape the city bustle with a boat trip and cycling tour on the Mekong Delta, a vast network of rivers, canals, and islands. Discover the region’s vibrant floating markets, lush orchards, and traditional villages. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 10:** Depart from Ho Chi Minh City, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your Vietnamese adventure.
This 10-day itinerary provides a comprehensive overview of Vietnam’s highlights, offering a blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and natural beauty. While it’s impossible to see everything in such a short time, this itinerary offers a well-rounded and memorable experience. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay and the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll collect memories of a lifetime. Imagine yourself cruising on the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, discovering the ancient sites of Hoi An and Hue, and floating down a river in giant woven baskets, a truly unique Vietnamese experience.
**Recommended Itinerary for 11 Days**
This itinerary delves deeper into Vietnamese culture, offering more opportunities for immersive experiences and cultural understanding as you travel from north to south.
* **Day 1:** Arrive in Hanoi and begin your exploration of the city. Stroll through the Old Quarter, sample local delicacies, and soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Overnight in Hanoi.
* **Day 2:** Embark on a comprehensive city tour of Hanoi, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and Hoan Kiem Lake. In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show, a unique Vietnamese art form. Overnight in Hanoi.
* **Day 3:** Escape the city bustle with a day trip to the Ba Vi countryside, a scenic region located just outside of Hanoi. Participate in a cooking class, learning to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes. Overnight in Hanoi.
* **Day 4:** Transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay and board a cruise. Spend the afternoon and evening exploring the stunning bay, kayaking through hidden lagoons and enjoying breathtaking sunset views. Overnight in Ha Long Bay.
* **Day 5:** Disembark from your cruise in Ha Long Bay and transfer to Hue. Take the remainder of the day to relax and prepare for exploring the former imperial capital. Overnight in Hue.
* **Day 6:** Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Hue with a sightseeing tour by cyclo (a traditional three-wheeled bicycle taxi) and private car. Visit the Imperial City, the Forbidden Purple City, and the Thien Mu Pagoda. Overnight in Hue.
* **Day 7:** Travel from Hue to Hoi An, enjoying the scenic coastal drive. Upon arrival in Hoi An, settle into your hotel and begin exploring the charming town. Overnight in Hoi An.
* **Day 8:** Discover the highlights of Hoi An with a city and food tour. Visit ancient merchant houses, the Japanese Covered Bridge, and local markets. Sample delicious Vietnamese dishes and learn about the town’s culinary traditions. Overnight in Hoi An.
* **Day 9:** Fly from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City. Spend the afternoon exploring the city’s central districts, visiting landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 10:** Delve into Vietnam’s wartime history with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, embark on a city tour of Ho Chi Minh City, visiting the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 11:** Depart from Ho Chi Minh City, reflecting on your enriching journey through Vietnam.
This 11-day itinerary provides a deeper dive into the culture of Vietnam, taking you from the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay in the north to the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City in the south. Begin your journey in Hanoi with tours of historic landmarks, engaging cooking classes, and a tranquil boat cruise. Then, journey to the coast to visit the Imperial City of Hue, explore the ancient streets of Hoi An, and conclude your adventure in the former Saigon, where you’ll discover significant war sites and admire French-colonial buildings.
**Recommended Itinerary for 13 Days**
This extended itinerary allows for a more relaxed pace and deeper exploration of each destination, including additional day trips and opportunities for independent discovery.
* **Day 1:** Arrive in Hanoi and settle into your hotel. Take some time to relax and explore the city at your own pace. Overnight in Hanoi.
* **Day 2:** Embark on a day trip to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc, two stunning destinations located near Ninh Binh. Explore the ancient temples of Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam, and enjoy a boat ride through the picturesque rice paddies and limestone karsts of Tam Coc. Overnight in Hanoi.
* **Day 3:** Transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay and board a cruise. Enjoy the scenic journey and prepare to be amazed by the beauty of Ha Long Bay. Overnight in Ha Long Bay.
* **Day 4:** Spend the day cruising in Ha Long Bay, exploring hidden caves, swimming in emerald waters, and kayaking through stunning lagoons. In the afternoon, transfer back to Hanoi. Overnight in Hanoi.
* **Day 5:** Fly from Hanoi to Hue and begin exploring the former imperial capital. Visit the Citadel, the Forbidden Purple City, and the Thien Mu Pagoda. Overnight in Hue.
* **Day 6:** Embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Hue, delving deeper into the city’s history and culture. Visit the tombs of former emperors, explore local markets, and sample delicious Hue cuisine. Overnight in Hue.
* **Day 7:** Transfer from Hue to Hoi An. Upon arrival in Hoi An, begin exploring the ancient town, admiring its well-preserved architecture and unique cultural heritage. Overnight in Hoi An.
* **Day 8:** Take a luxury tour to the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Hoi An. Explore the ancient Cham ruins and learn about the history of the Champa Kingdom. Overnight in Hoi An.
* **Day 9:** Enjoy a self-guided experience in Hoi An, exploring the town at your own pace. Visit local shops, art galleries, and tailor shops, and sample delicious street food. Overnight in Hoi An.
* **Day 10:** Fly from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy some free time to relax and explore the city at your own pace. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 11:** Delve into Vietnam’s wartime history with a half-day tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels. Learn about the tunnels’ construction and use during the Vietnam War. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 12:** Embark on a Mekong Delta group tour, exploring the region’s vibrant floating markets, lush orchards, and traditional villages. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 13:** Depart from Ho Chi Minh City, filled with memories of your incredible journey through Vietnam.
This 13-day journey allows you to discover the highlights of Vietnam, from bustling cities to small towns and breathtaking natural landscapes. Sample local specialties such as steaming noodle soup on a street food tour in Hanoi, visit the ancient royal cities of Hoa Lu and Hue, have a custom-tailored outfit made in the colorful town of Hoi An, explore the Cu Chi Tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, and discover local life by rowboat and bicycle in Tam Coc and the Mekong Delta.
**Extended Itineraries**
For those with even more time to explore, consider these extended itineraries that incorporate additional destinations and experiences.
**2-Week Itinerary Including Can Tho**
This itinerary expands upon the 13-day itinerary, adding a visit to Can Tho in the Mekong Delta for a deeper exploration of this fascinating region.
* **Days 1-9:** Follow the same itinerary as the first nine days of the 13-day itinerary.
* **Day 10:** Fly from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City and embark on a Ho Chi Minh City Vespa food tour, experiencing the city’s culinary delights from a unique perspective. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 11:** Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels and embark on a city tour of Ho Chi Minh City, visiting landmarks such as the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 12:** Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho, and discover the wonders of the Mekong Delta. Overnight in Can Tho.
* **Day 13:** Explore Can Tho, visiting the Cai Rang Floating Market, a vibrant hub of commerce and culture. In the afternoon, transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 14:** Depart from Ho Chi Minh City, carrying with you memories of your enriching journey through Vietnam.
Travel from north to south and explore the best of Vietnam on this two-week adventure. Start in Hanoi and discover its treasures in the city center and outskirts. Cruise on Ha Long Bay to truly get a feel for rural Vietnam. Wander through the countryside as you discover the villages of Hue, Hoi An, and Cam Thanh before enjoying a serene basketboat ride. Finish your trip in the lively Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll tour the city and experience the floating markets of Cam Rai.
**15-Day Itinerary Including Siem Reap**
This itinerary combines the highlights of Vietnam with a visit to the ancient temples of Angkor in Siem Reap, Cambodia, offering a truly unforgettable Southeast Asian experience.
* **Days 1-11:** Follow a similar itinerary to the first eleven days of the 13-day itinerary, focusing on the highlights of Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 12:** Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Settle into your hotel and prepare to explore the ancient temples of Angkor. Overnight in Siem Reap.
* **Day 13:** Visit the iconic Angkor Temples, including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Bayon. Marvel at the intricate carvings and stunning architecture of these ancient wonders. Overnight in Siem Reap.
* **Day 14:** Explore Kbal Spean (the River of a Thousand Lingas) and Banteay Srei, a beautifully preserved temple known for its intricate carvings and pink sandstone. Overnight in Siem Reap.
* **Day 15:** Depart from Siem Reap, carrying with you memories of your incredible journey through Vietnam and Cambodia.
Cultural wonders and stunning natural beauty are in abundance on this 15-day trip throughout Vietnam and Cambodia. This itinerary is jam-packed with world-famous landmarks and off-the-beaten-path gems. You’ll begin in the lively capital city of Hanoi to cruise through magnificent Ha Long Bay, cycle through the countryside of Hue, and even learn to fish from locals in Hoi An. After experiencing Ho Chi Minh’s past and a leisurely float down the Mekong Delta, you’ll hop over to Cambodia and finish your adventure among the ancient temples of Angkor Wat.
**15-Day Itinerary Including Ninh Binh, Can Tho & Pu Luong Nature Reserve**
This comprehensive itinerary showcases the best of Vietnam, from its bustling cities to its serene natural landscapes, including visits to Ninh Binh, Can Tho, and the Pu Luong Nature Reserve.
* **Day 1:** Arrive in Hanoi and enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. Overnight in Hanoi.
* **Day 2:** Embark on a comprehensive city tour of Hanoi, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and Hoan Kiem Lake. Overnight in Hanoi.
* **Day 3:** Transfer to the Pu Luong Nature Reserve and embark on a hike through the stunning landscapes of rice terraces, forests, and waterfalls. Overnight in Pu Luong Nature Reserve.
* **Day 4:** Travel from the Pu Luong Nature Reserve to Ninh Binh. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
* **Day 5:** Explore Ninh Binh, visiting Tam Coc, Hoa Lu, and Bich Dong Pagoda. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
* **Day 6:** Travel from Ninh Binh to Ha Long Bay and embark on a cruise. Enjoy the scenic journey and prepare to be amazed by the beauty of Ha Long Bay. Overnight in Ha Long Bay.
* **Day 7:** Travel from Ha Long Bay to Hue. Take the remainder of the day to explore the former imperial capital on your own. Overnight in Hue.
* **Day 8:** Embark on a Hue city tour. Bike to rural villages and explore the beauty of the area. Overnight in Hue.
* **Day 9:** Travel from Hue to Hoi An. Explore the ancient town and enjoy the beauty of the city. Overnight in Hoi An.
* **Day 10:** Visit Tra Que Village and embark on a Hoi An city tour. Overnight in Hoi An.
* **Day 11:** Travel from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 12:** Enjoy a free day in Ho Chi Minh City to explore the area on your own. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 13:** Go on a morning excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
* **Day 14:** Go on a Mekong Delta Day Trip to Can Tho. Overnight in Can Tho.
* **Day 15:** Depart from Ho Chi Minh City.
This grand tour of Vietnam covers the best of the country, from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. After touring the historic sites in Vietnam’s capital, spend time in the unspoiled nature reserve of Pu Luong and the stunning landscapes of the Red River Valley. Following this is a cruise around Ha Long Bay, a tour of organic farms at ancient Hoi An, and a visit to highlights around Ho Chi Minh City, like the Mekong River.
**How to Travel Between Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hanoi, Hue & Ha Long Bay**
Navigating Vietnam’s diverse landscapes is an integral part of the travel experience. Here’s a guide to efficient transportation options between key destinations.
**How to get from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay**
If you’re looking to make the 108-mile (174 km) journey from Hanoi to scenic Ha Long Bay—a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its limestone pillars and small, verdant islands—you have three efficient options to choose from, including shuttle buses, private cars, and even seaplanes for a truly unforgettable experience.
**How to get from Hanoi to Hue**
Those traveling 423 miles (680 km) from Hanoi to the former imperial city of Hue have several options, including flights, trains, and buses. However, taking a direct flight will be the most efficient and time-saving option, allowing you to maximize your time exploring Hue’s historical landmarks.
**How to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi**
Vietnam’s two major cities, Ho Chi Minh City in the south and Hanoi in the north, are about 1,000 miles (1,600 km) apart. The easiest way to get to Hanoi is a direct two-hour flight, and there are multiple flights out of Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport each day, offering flexibility and convenience for travelers.
**How to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An**
Travelers making the 582-mile (938 km) trip between Ho Chi Minh City and the UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An have several options to complete the journey. The fastest and best route is via a 1.5-hour plane ride to Danang, which is located near Hoi An. From Danang, you can easily take a taxi or shuttle bus to Hoi An. Taking the train is another (significantly slower) option for those who might like to experience Vietnam’s countryside up close, offering a scenic and leisurely journey.
By carefully considering your travel style, interests, and available time, you can create a customized itinerary that perfectly captures the essence of Vietnam. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling cities, the serene landscapes, or the rich cultural heritage, a journey through Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hanoi, Hue, and Ha Long Bay promises an unforgettable adventure.
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