10-Day Vietnam Itinerary: The Ultimate Travel Plan for First-Timers

If you're dreaming of a complete change of scenery and a cultural getaway on a budget, a 10-day trip to Vietnam will tick all the boxes. You can easily plan a trip to Vietnam on your own, without going through a travel agency or joining a group tour. There are plenty of independent travellers exploring this Southeast Asian country.

Get ready for an incredible adventure that is rich in history. Vietnam is a surprisingly narrow and long country, stretching from the mountains in the north to the golden beaches in the south. Don't be fooled by its size on a map: it takes a few dozen hours to travel from the North to the South, or vice versa.

The diversity of landscapes and cultures is impressive: the weather, people, food, and traditions vary greatly from region to region. You'll find that each region, the North, Centre, and South, has its own unique identity.

North to South or the Reverse Route: What’s Best for 10 Days in Vietnam?

Your first decision will be to choose where to start: the North or the South. There's no wrong answer. If you want a modern start to your journey, begin with Ho Chi Minh City in the south. For a more cultural start, opt for Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, which has managed to preserve a timeless feel.

Here's a 10-day itinerary for a first-time trip to Vietnam, from South to North:

Hanoi (2 nights)

As soon as you arrive in Hanoi, head to the Old Quarter, where its narrow streets will immerse you in an atmosphere where time seems to stand still. You'll be amazed by the colours and scents of Vietnamese dishes. Try a Vietnamese coffee to recover from jet lag and savour a delicious Pho soup.

Visit Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the famous Train Street. Crossing the street will be a real culture shock, as hundreds of motorbikes weave through without ever stopping. You'll quickly realize that the motorbikes won't let you pass—that's just how it works.

Travel tip: To cross the street, follow a local and become their shadow. Walk slowly beside them, and the motorbikes will go around you. Don't run or stop suddenly: you'll be proud of yourself after your first crossing!

Halong Bay (2 nights)

You've probably already seen spectacular images of Halong Bay, famous for its limestone islands. To explore this majestic place, book a cruise that will allow you to sail among these thousands of islets. 

Packages usually include everything: nights on the boat, meals, activities, and tours. There's an option for every budget. You can choose a traditional wooden junk with fan sails or even a luxury suite with a hot tub on the balcony.

Hoi An (3 nights)

Take a flight or an overnight bus to the centre of the country, in Da Nang, then hop in a taxi to Hoi An, the city of lanterns, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city, with its pagodas and numerous canals, will charm you. Rent a bike to explore the surroundings. After sunset, the old town becomes magical with thousands of colourful lanterns, making you feel like you're in a movie.

Enjoy Cua Dai Beach for sunbathing, relaxing, sipping a cocktail on the white sandy beach, and savouring fresh seafood. 

Don't miss a basket boat ride through the coconut forest on a type of round bamboo boat used for over 2,000 years—a unique and affordable experience (around $10).

For a day trip, head to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, where you'll be impressed by the imperial citadel. 

You can also visit the temples of My Son to feel like Indiana Jones. You'll discover the ruins of ancient temples without the crowds of Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

Ho Chi Minh City (2 nights)

You'll experience a drastic change of scenery when you arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, a modern metropolis filled with skyscrapers. You'll quickly understand that this is the economic heart of the country. 

The city is divided into districts, a bit like the arrondissements in Paris! For a first visit, stay in District 1, formerly Saigon, which is full of iconic places you absolutely must visit, such as the Central Post Office.

Discover the lively Bui Vien Street, nicknamed "Backpacker Street", the equivalent of Khao San Road in Bangkok. You'll find festive bars and street food stalls.

Cross the Mekong River to reach District 2, the expat district, where you can enjoy trendy cafés and rooftop bars offering stunning views of the city.

Each district has its own personality: District 3, for example, blends the old and the new with its colonial charm. District 5 is the city's Chinatown.

Finally, don't forget to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, an ingenious underground network used during the Vietnam War. You can even crawl through some sections of the tunnels, as long as you're not claustrophobic. You'll be surprised to discover secret exits that allow you to escape discreetly.

Enjoy your stay in the Land of the Dragon!

There are so many little cultural differences that will capture your heart. Vietnam is a proud country, full of resilience. Let yourself be inspired by the Vietnamese way of life.

When planning your trip to Vietnam, don't forget to get your tourist visa, update your vaccinations, and get travel insurance with soNomad well before your departure.