Why Vietnam?
Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating countries, balancing modern energy with deep-rooted traditions. With its rich culture, dramatic landscapes, delicious street food, and warm people, Vietnam invites exploration at every turn. The country stretches over 1,600 kilometers, meaning every region brings a different vibe - from the misty mountains of the north to the tranquil rivers of the south.
Let’s dive into some travel itinerary ideas tailored for different timelines and interests.
10-Day Classic Vietnam Itinerary
Perfect for first-timers who want to see the most iconic sights in a limited time.
Route suggestion: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta
What to do:
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Wander through Hanoi’s Old Quarter and enjoy egg coffee by Hoan Kiem Lake
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Explore the limestone landscapes of Ninh Binh by sampan boat
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Cruise through Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Fly south to Da Nang, then discover Hoi An’s lantern-lit Ancient Town
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Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, take a historical walking tour, and dive into its vibrant nightlife
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Spend a day in the Mekong Delta visiting floating markets and coconut farms
Egg coffee is a must-try while visit Hanoi
This itinerary offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and city life - ideal for those who want a little bit of everything.
2-Week Vietnam Itinerary: Cultural Immersion
Great for travelers who want to take their time and experience local traditions and heritage.
Route suggestion: Hanoi - Mai Chau - Hue - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta
Highlights include:
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Visit Hanoi’s craft villages and ride a vintage jeep through the countryside
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Stay in a stilt house in Mai Chau and join a cooking class with locals
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Learn imperial history in Hue by visiting the Citadel and royal tombs
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Take a farming and fishing tour in Hoi An
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In Ho Chi Minh City, visit the War Remnants Museum and explore Chinatown
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Go deeper into the Mekong Delta with an overnight homestay in a river village
Explore Hue’s royal tombs
This Vietnam travel itinerary idea offers deep insight into the daily lives of locals while letting you explore some of the country’s most beautiful regions.
3-Week Vietnam Itinerary: Best of North to South
For travelers with more time who want to experience everything from highlands to beaches.
Route suggestion: Hanoi - Sapa - Ha Giang - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay - Hue - Hoi An - Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Phu Quoc
Activities to include:
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Trek among the rice terraces in Sapa and visit ethnic minority villages
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Ride a motorbike through the Ha Giang Loop - Vietnam’s most stunning mountain route
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Explore Ninh Binh’s caves and pagodas
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Sleep on a cruise in Halong Bay
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Discover Central Vietnam’s imperial and colonial history
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End with some beach relaxation in Phu Quoc or snorkeling in Cham Island
Cruise through the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay
This is the ultimate route for travelers who want to go beyond the basics and see the full spectrum of Vietnam’s beauty.
1 Month in Vietnam: Deep Dive
Perfect for digital nomads, slow travelers, or anyone with the time to linger and learn.
With a full month, you can truly take your time. No need to rush. You can plan your Vietnam travel itinerary to include cultural festivals, wellness retreats, or volunteering opportunities.
Sample route:
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Week 1: Explore Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Halong Bay
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Week 2: Trekking in Ha Giang or Sapa
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Week 3: Cultural discovery in Hue, beach time in Hoi An and Da Nang
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Week 4: Southern Vietnam with Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc Island
Add in activities like a meditation retreat in the mountains, photography workshops, or exploring eco-tourism villages like Pu Luong.
Cai Rang floating market in Mekong Delta
This itinerary is ideal for travelers who enjoy independence, local connection, and spontaneous adventures.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Itinerary
Best for returning visitors or travelers wanting to avoid the crowds.
Unique destinations to consider:
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Ha Giang: Dramatic limestone peaks and cultural richness
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Quang Binh: Explore Phong Nha’s massive cave systems
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Buon Ma Thuot: Vietnam’s coffee capital
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Chau Doc: Waterways near the Cambodian border
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Con Dao: Quiet beaches with a haunting wartime past
Ha Giang during the water-pouring season
This type of Vietnam travel itinerary idea brings a more intimate side of the country to light, far from the typical tourist trail.
Vietnam & Cambodia Combo Itinerary
For travelers who want to explore two countries on one trip.
Suggested route:
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Vietnam: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hue - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta
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Cross the border by speedboat to Phnom Penh
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Cambodia: Phnom Penh - Siem Reap - Angkor Wat temples
Explore Vietnam like a local with New Asia Tours
This journey connects the cultural threads of two ancient civilizations while offering incredible natural landscapes.
Final Tips for Planning Your Vietnam Itinerary
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Weather varies dramatically between regions. The north has four seasons, while the south is tropical year-round.
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Transport options include domestic flights, trains, buses, and private car rentals.
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Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries can now apply online for an e-visa.
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Travel style matters: Are you into luxury? Adventure? Cultural immersion? Plan based on your vibe, not just popular routes.
Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, Vietnam never runs out of stories, flavors, and views to wow you. These Vietnam travel itinerary ideas are only the beginning - your perfect route is the one tailored to your pace, passions, and people.
Let New Asia Tours help you plan a seamless, unforgettable journey. From boutique hotels to private guides and immersive local experiences, we design trips that go beyond sightseeing. Talk to our Vietnam experts and start customizing your itinerary today!
