Vietnam is a country of stunning landscapes, rich history, delicious food, and vibrant culture. In 10 days, you can explore the bustling cities, beautiful beaches, UNESCO-listed heritage sites, and scenic countryside.

This Vietnam itinerary is designed for first-time travelers and includes the highlights of Northern, Central, and Southern Vietnam. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or in luxury, this guide will help you maximize your experience.

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi – Explore the Capital

Keywords: Hanoi travel guide, best things to do in Hanoi, Hanoi street food

Why Visit Hanoi?

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is a bustling city full of history, vibrant markets, and incredible street food.

Morning – Arrival & Exploring the Old Quarter

✔ Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple.

✔ Stroll through the Hanoi Old Quarter to experience traditional Vietnamese culture.

Afternoon – Hanoi’s Cultural & Historical Sites

✔ Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Presidential Palace.

✔ Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university.

Evening – Enjoy Hanoi’s Street Food & Nightlife

✔ Try Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) at Pho Gia Truyen.

✔ Watch a traditional Water Puppet Show at Thang Long Theater.

✔ Experience Hanoi’s nightlife at Ta Hien Beer Street.

Budget Stay: Little Charm Hanoi Hostel ($10/night).

Luxury Stay: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi ($200/night).

Day 2: Ha Long Bay – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

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⛵ Why Visit Ha Long Bay?

Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most famous destinations, featuring limestone karsts, emerald waters, and stunning caves.

Morning – Travel to Ha Long Bay & Board Your Cruise

By Bus/Shuttle: 2.5–3 hours.

By Seaplane: 45 minutes (luxury option).

Afternoon & Evening – Ha Long Bay Cruise

✔ Kayak through hidden caves and explore floating fishing villages.

✔ Visit Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), one of the bay’s largest caves.

✔ Enjoy a seafood dinner and sunset on a luxury cruise.

Budget Stay: Overnight cruise on Swan Cruises (~$130/person).

Luxury Stay: Paradise Elegance Cruise (~$300/person).

Day 3: Travel to Da Nang & Explore Hoi An

Keywords: Hoi An travel guide, best places to visit in Vietnam, Central Vietnam itinerary

Why Visit Hoi An?

Hoi An is Vietnam’s most charming ancient town, known for its well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and tailor shops.

Morning – Fly Hanoi to Da Nang & Transfer to Hoi An

✈️ Flight time: 1.5 hours.

Da Nang to Hoi An: 45 minutes by car.

Afternoon – Explore Hoi An’s Ancient Town

✔ Visit Japanese Covered Bridge and Tan Ky Old House.

✔ Get a custom-made outfit one of Hoi An’s famous tailor shops.

Evening – Enjoy Hoi An’s Nightlife

✔ Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River and release a lantern.

✔ Try Cao Lau (Hoi An noodles) and Banh Mi Phuong.

Budget Stay: Tribee Bana Hostel ($15/night).

Luxury Stay: Anantara Hoi An Resort ($250/night).