Vietnam Itinerary from North to South - The Ultimate Travel Guide

Did you know that Vietnam stretches over 1,600 km (1,000 miles) from north to south, offering a stunning mix of mountains, beaches, and vibrant cities? If you're planning a trip but feeling overwhelmed by the endless options, you're in the right place.

This guide will walk you through the perfect Vietnam itinerary from north to south, covering must-visit destinations, travel tips, and transportation options. Whether you have 10, 14, or 21 days, you'll find a route that fits your schedule and travel style. But before that:

Who is this itinerary for?

• First-time visitors: A well-planned route to see Vietnam’s highlights without feeling rushed.

• Backpackers: Budget-friendly options with plenty of adventure.

• Families: A mix of culture, nature, and relaxation for all ages.

Best Time to Travel from North to South

• Spring (March–April): Pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor exploration.

• Autumn (September–November): Mild temperatures and stunning landscapes.

• Avoid: Peak summer (June–August) due to heat and monsoon rains in the north.

Now, let’s dive into the perfect Vietnam itinerary from north to south!

Vietnam Itinerary from North to South

Suggested Routes for Vietnam Itinerary North to South

Option 1: 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary (Short & Fast-Paced)

If you’re short on time but want to experience the highlights, this 10-day itinerary covers the must-see spots at a quicker pace.

• Start: Hanoi → End: Ho Chi Minh City

Hanoi Train Street

Option 2: 14-Day Vietnam Itinerary (Balanced & Relaxed)

If you have two weeks, you can slow down and explore more off-the-beaten-path spots. This Vietnam Itinerary from North to South builds on the 10-day route from above, but with extra stops.

• Start: Hanoi → End: Ho Chi Minh City

Extra Stops to Add:

• Day 3-4: Ninh Binh - Climb to the top of Hang Múa Viewpoint & boat through Trang An

• Day 6-7: Hue - Explore the Imperial City & cruise on the Perfume River

• Day 11-12: Dalat - Chase waterfalls & ride a swan boat on Xuan Huong Lake

This itinerary gives you a mix of history, nature, and adventure without feeling rushed!

Vietnam trip with New Asia Tours

Option 3: 21-Day Vietnam Itinerary (Slow Travel & In-Depth Exploration)

For those who love slow travel and want to fully immerse in Vietnam, a 3-week itinerary is perfect. Along with the 14-day route, you’ll add even more hidden gems.

• Start: Hanoi → End: Phu Quoc

More Destinations to Explore:

• Day 4-6: Sapa - Trek through rice terraces & meet ethnic minority groups
  Day 9-10: Phong Nha - Explore massive caves like Paradise Cave & Dark Cave
  Day 14-16: Mui Ne - Ride ATVs on red & white sand dunes
  Day 19-21: Phu Quoc - Relax on white sand beaches & snorkel in turquoise waters

End of the trip - Fly out from Phu Quoc or back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Pristine beach of Phu Quoc

How to Travel Vietnam from North to South

By Plane

If you’re short on time, flying between major cities is the best option. Domestic flights are affordable and frequent. Popular routes include:

• Hanoi → Da Nang (1h 20m) – Ideal if you want to skip long train or bus rides.

• Da Nang → Ho Chi Minh City (1h 30m) – Saves over 17 hours compared to a train!

• Ho Chi Minh City → Phu Quoc (1h) – The quickest way to paradise.

Tip: Book in advance with airlines like Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways.

By Train

For a slow and scenic journey, take the Reunification Express, a historic railway running from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. It’s not the fastest, but the coastal views are unbeatable.

• Best leg: Hue → Da Nang (3h) – Stunning views over Hai Van Pass.

• Hanoi → Ho Chi Minh City: ~33-36 hours (better split into sections).

Tip: Book soft sleeper tickets for a comfortable overnight journey.

Scenic train from Hue to Da Nang

For extra savings, sleeper buses are a cheap and convenient way to travel across Vietnam. You can catch a bus from major stations around the city, with routes connecting almost every province. For extra thrill, rent a motorbike and conquer Vietnam’s most scenic rides, like the Hai Van Pass to the epic Ha Giang Loop.

Useful Travel Tips

• Book Early for the Best Deals: Flights and hotels in Vietnam can fluctuate a lot depending on the season. If you're traveling during peak months (December - April), secure your bookings in advance to lock in better rates.

• Cash is King: Vietnam primarily uses Vietnamese Dong (VND), so be ready to exchange money at the airport, banks, or withdraw from ATMs. While credit cards are accepted in some places, smaller shops and street vendors prefer cash.

• Stay Hydrated, But Not from the Tap: Tap water in Vietnam isn’t safe to drink, but bottled water is cheap and available everywhere. Most hotels and restaurants also provide safe drinking water.

• Keep an Eye on Your Belongings: A Vietnam adventure means lots of moving around! Be mindful of your bags, especially in crowded areas, to avoid pickpockets or accidentally leaving things behind.

• Pack Smart: Vietnam’s weather can be unpredictable, so bring sunscreen, an umbrella, and insect repellent - trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

Choose New Asia Tours for your next Vietnam adventure

A Vietnam itinerary from north to south is the perfect way to experience the country's diverse landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi, cruising through Halong Bay, or soaking up the tropical vibes of the Mekong Delta, this journey is sure to be unforgettable.

Planning a trip can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone! New Asia Tours offers expertly crafted itineraries, ensuring a hassle-free adventure tailored to your travel style. Book your Vietnam tour today and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!