Vietnam Itinerary: 7, 10 and 14 days

Thinking of visiting Vietnammbut not sure how long you need? Here we present three varied Vietnam itineraries to suit a few different timeframes. Namely, ways to spend 7 days, 10 days and 14 days in Vietnam, with each itinerary covering a rich range of landscapes and experiences, thanks to them being curated by a local Vietnam expert. So, read on to be inspired and informed as you plan your own Vietnam itinerary.

Recommended Vietnam itineraries

Before we go into detail on how to spend 7, 10 and 14 days in the country, here's an overview of these recommended Vietnam itineraries.

• 7 days in Vietnam: covering Hanoi to Hoi An in just a week, this is ideal if you're looking to enjoy smorgasbord of Vietnam's enticing scenery and cultural attractions.
• 10 days in Vietnam: from Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, to Ninh Binh, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City, this 10-day trip to Vietnam enables travlers to do deeper dives into more destinations.
• 2 weeks in Vietnam: extending your stay to two weeks means you can also explore scenic Sapa, Fansipan Mountain, Ninh Binh, Tam Coc, Hoa Lu and Hoi An.
• North Vietnam itinerary: ideal for travelers who want to lose themselves in the misty mountain scenery of the north on an immersive 12-day trip.

Editor's tip: if your Vietnam trip is right round the corner, arm yourself with our Vietnam travel advice.

Vietnam itinerary 7 days

Although a Vietnam itinerary for 7 days may seem short, this suggested trip plan covers a variety of activities and places that showcase the country's rich history, culture and landscapes. 

Read on for a day-by-day breakdown of the destinations you'll visit — and experience you'll get to enjoy — during a diverse Vietnam itinerary for 7 days.

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

After landing in Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital, and checking-in, head to the Old Quarter — Hanoi's handsome historic heart.

Its narrow streets are packed with market stalls, quirky cafés, and temples that showcase the city's diversity. It's also a great place to enjoy sensational Vietnamese street food.

Alternatively, spend your first afternoon around Hoan Kiem. As the centerpiece of the city, there’s always something happening along its shoreline.

That evening, watch a folklore-infused water puppet show at the Thang Long Theatre.

Editor's tip: read up on the best places to stay in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi city tour

On day 2, discover Hanoi’s highlights — including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Old Quarter — on a guided walking tour.

In the afternoon, make your way to the Hoa Lo Prison Museum — a sobering site that offers insight into Vietnam’s history during French colonization and the Vietnam War.

Day 3: Transfer from Hanoi to Ninh Binh

On day 3 of this Vietnam itinerary for 7 days, it's time to travel to Ninh Binh. It'll take around 2 hours by car or train, but you'll want to factor in time to make a few stops en route, starting with Trang An.

On reaching this UNESCO World Heritage Site, board a traditional sampan boat to glide through caves and past towering cliffs.

If time allows, visit Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, to explore temples dedicated to past emperors.

Day 4: Full day in Ninh Binh

On day four, wonders around Nimh Binh await, among them some of the most beautiful places in Vietnam. 

Start your day early with a visit to Tam Coc, where a boat ride on the Ngo Dong River will take you past limestone karsts and through caves. It’s similar to Trang An, but feels more intimate.

Afterward, rent a bike and cycle through the countryside to Bich Dong Pagoda, a beautiful temple complex built into a limestone mountain. 

Come the afternoon, head to Van Long Nature Reserve. Known as a "wetland wonder," this peaceful spot is perfect for spotting langurs and stacks of birds.

Day 5: Travel from Ninh Binh to Hue

On day 8, take an overnight train or flight via Hanoi to Hue, Vietnam’s historic former capital.

If you’re taking the overnight train, be sure to book a sleeper for some comfort. Alternatively, hop on a flight from Hanoi to save time.

After arriving in Hue, we suggest taking it easy as a full day of exploration lies ahead tomorrow. 

That said, you wont regret making the effort to take an evening stroll along the Perfume River — after dark, the riverside comes alive with lights and food vendors.

Day 6: Explore the Historic City of Hue

Start your day at the Hue Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Next, head to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda. Scenically sited on a hill overlooking the Perfume River, it's one of the oldest and most significant temples in Vietnam.

In the afternoon, spend time exploring Hue’s royal tombs, not least the Tomb of Minh Mang — an architectural masterpiece set in serene gardens.

Lasktly, wrap up your day with a feast of local dishes like bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) or banh khoai (crispy pancakes). 

Editor’s tip: Hue is best explored by bike, so you might want to read our Vietnam motorbike tips and tricks.

Day 7: Journey from Hue to Hoi An via Danang

The last stage of this Vietnam itinerary for 7 days will see you see stacks more sights as you travel from  Hue to Hoi An. The journey itself (3-4 hours by car or train) is a highlight in itself.

If you’re traveling by car or motorbike, don’t miss the Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam’s most scenic routes. Stop at the summit for photos before continuing toward Danang. If you’re on the train, you’ll still get fantastic views of the coastline.

Once in Hoi An, spend your evening strolling the lantern-lit streets of the Ancient Town, or enjoying a feast of cao lau (Hoi An’s signature noodle dish) by the Thu Bon River.

Not sure when to take your trip? Read up on when to go to Vietnam.

Vietnam itinerary 10 days

For travelers with more time, the following itinerary covering 10 days in Vietnam balances city experiences, historic landmarks, and stacks of natural beauty.

It also includes plenty of the best things to do in Vietnam.

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

Depending on what time you arrive, after checking-in to your hotel (we recommend first-timers consider accommodation in the Old Quarter), you could head straight out to soak up the city's unique vibe and get your bearings.

As mentioned abouve, a great place to start is around Hoan Kiem. Located on the edge of the Old Quarter, it's a peaceful place to start your Hanoi adventure, with Ngoc Son Temple — AKA the Temple of the Jade Mountain — an iconic must-visit located on a small island.

Day 2: Explore Hanoi's Old Quarter

With one full day in Hanoi, we suggest devoting your time to doing a deep dive into its charismatic Old Quarter. 

For example, you could kick off your day with a visit to Dong Xuan Market — Hanoi’s largest indoor market — for a flavor of local life, and the chance to pick up souvenirs and lunch.

Next, head to Hanoi’s "36 Streets" area, so named as a result of each street historically specializing in a specific trade. 

Come the evening, see a show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre — they bring local folklore to life in beautiful style.

Day 3: Travel from Hanoi to Sapa

Day three of this 10-day itinerary wil see you move to Sapa, where spectacular landscapes of rice terraces, misty mountains and ancient rock fields await.

With travel time averaging 5.5-8 hours, depending on mode of transport, we suggest you take the train to get from Hanoi to Sapa for a balance of comfort and ease.

Day 4: Explore around Sapa

Day 5: Discover Sapa's ethnic villages

On your second day in Sapa, it’s time to turn your attention to local culture by visiting Sapa's ethnic villages is on an organized tour, most of which kick off with a visit to Cat Cat — a Black Hmong village that’s close to Sapa town. 

With a pretty waterfall and small rice terraces, this scenic settlement offers unforgettable opportunities to experience traditional Hmong life.

Day 6: Travel from Sapa to Ninh Binh

Day six is a transfer day that’ll see you travel from Sapa to Ninh Binh. Depending on the mode of transport you opt for, this will take 7-10 hours.

The train option involves taking a shuttle from Sapa to Lao Cai Station to connect with the train to Hanoi.

On arrival, you have a few options for the final leg of the journey i.e. getting from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. 

First, you could take a train (2 hours 15 mins). Alternatively, you could arrange an organized shuttle or take a bus, both of which which can take up to three hours.

A faster way to get from Sapa to Ninh Binh is to take a bus all the way. The journey will total 7-9 hours, while the train option can take up to 10 hours.

Day 7: Explore Ninh Binh — Tam Coc or Trang An boat tour

Day 8: Travel from Ninh Binh to Hoi An

Day 8 is devoted to traveling to Hoi An to explore its UNESCO-designated delights.

To cut down travel time, head back to Hanoi first thing in the morning — perhaps take an early train, or book a shuttle.

From Hanoi, there are a few ways to get to Hoi An. With a flight time of 1 hour 20 minutes to Da Nang — plus a 45-90-minute road transfer to Hoi An — traveling by plane is the fastest (and best) way to get from Hanoi to Hoi An.

Meanwhile, traveling by train will take around 17 hours, and the bumpy bus ride will take up to 18 hours. 

Day 9: Explore Hoi An

Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most charming and well-preserved cities. 

While its UNESCO World Heritage site Ancient Town features traditional Vietnamese houses, Chinese temples, Japanese bridges, and French colonial buildings, the city is also famed for its tailors, and proximity to beaches.

Start your day by exploring the Ancient Town, stopping off at icons like the Japanese Covered Bridge, and Phuc Kien Assembly Hall.

Killing two birds with one stone, take a late-morning cooking class to discover Vietnamese food, and fill your belly at lunchtime before taking a trip on the Thu Bon River.

After dark, return to the Ancient Town, which becomes even more magical at night, thanks to the lanterns that illuminate its streets, and the night market on Nguyen Hoang Street.

Day 10: Return to Hanoi

Vietnam itinerary 14 days

If you have two weeks available, following this 14 days in Vietnam itinerary will see you discover Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ninh Binh and Hoi An in immersive style.

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

After checking-in to your hotel, kick off this varied Vietnam itinerary in Hanoi's Old Quarter, where a maze of narrow streets, street food stalls and shops await.

We also recommend visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, resting place of Vietnam’s revered leader, and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university.

Day 2: Uncover Hanoi's history

Day 2 of this 14 day Vietnam itinerary is devoted to discovering Hanoi’s history, starting with a morning visit to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which shares insights into the country’s 54 ethnic groups.

Next, head to West Lake to see Tran Quoc Pagoda — Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temple — before spending the afternoon shopping at Dong Xuan Market, or strolling through the French Quarter. 

Day 3: Overnight stay in Ha Long Bay 

The wonders of Ha Long Bay UNESCO World Heritage Site are in store on day 3 of this 14 day Vetnam itinerary.

While there are a few ways to get from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, we suggest arranging a trip that includes an overnight stay on a boat.

Aim to arrive at Tuan Chau Pier by midday to board your boat to explore the bay’s limestone karsts and emerald waters. Most trips offer the chance to kayak through lagoons and caves, and some also stop at Ti Top Island.

Day 4: Return to Hanoi

On the morning of day four, rise early to see a sensational sunrise from the deck of your boat.

Depending on the trip you book, you might have chance to see more karst caves in the morning before you head back to Hanoi, where you could explore the Old Quarter’s night market that evening.

Day 5: Transfer to Sapa and explore

Though it takes 5-6 hours to get from Hanoi to Sapa, the ride along a new highway is incredibly scenic, and pretty smooth setting you up for the next stage of your two weeks in Vietnam.

If you have time after arriving, consider visiting Cat Cat Village, a traditional Hmong community.

Day 6: Trek to Lao Chai and Ta Van villages

Offering breath-taking views of the Hoang Lien Son mountains, and taking you through rice terraces and lush valleys speckled with small streams, your day 6 trek from Sapa is bound to be a highlight of your Vietnam vacation.

Be sure to stop at Lao Chai, a Black Hmong village, to learn about their traditional lifestyle and craftsmanship, before walking on to  Ta Van. Home to the Dzay ethnic group, its a splendid place to enjoy a delicious homemade lunch.

Day 7: Explore Fansipan Mountain

Day 8: Transfer from Sapa to Hanoi

Day 9: Ninh Binh via Tam Coc and Hoa Lu

On day 9, it’s time to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh in Northern Vietnam, stopping at a few special attractions on the way, starting with Tam Coc.

Known as “Halong Bay on land”, a scenic boat ride will have you gliding through towering limestone cliffs, and exploring three spectacular natural caves.

We also suggest making a stop at visit Hoa Lu, capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries. 

Day 10: Explore around Ninh Binh

A mix of adventure and culture is up next, when you embark on a morning hike to the Mua Cave Viewpoint for marvelous views of Tam Coc’s lush rice fields, rivers and limestone karsts. 

Come the afternoon, it’s time to visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temple complexes. 

Next, head back to Ninh Binh to collect your luggage before returning to Hanoi ready for another thrilling stage of this 4-day Vietnam itinerary.

Day 11: Transfer to Hoi An and explore

Day 12: Uncover culture in Hoi An

Kick off day 12 with a morning cooking class that includes picking up ingredients from local market before you learn to create Vietnamese dishes like banh xeo or pho under expert guidance. 

Once you've tucked into your culinary creations, hire a bike and cycle to An Bang Beach to chill and swim.

Come teh evening, you could return to the Ancient Town to take an enchanting lantern-lit boat ride on the Thu Bon River.

Day 13: Explore around Hoi An

Day 13 of your Vietnam itinerary starts with a morning trip to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site that's located about an hour’s drive from the city.

Nestled in a lush valley surrounded by mountains, it's home to the ancient Hindu temple ruins of the Champa Kingdom.

Next, head back to Hoi An for lunch at a local café before cycling to Tra Que Herb Village to learn about traditional Vietnamese agriculture.

Day 14: Depart Vietnam 

Come day 14, it’s time to transfer to Da Nang International Airport for your flight home.

North Vietnam itinerary

If you're interested in the north of Vietnam, here's what your itinerary could look like.

Days 1-2: Explore Hanoi

The first couple of days of this varied North Vietnam itinerary will see you discover the capital of Vietnam.

Don't miss visiting Hanoi’s romantic highlights, like Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake, and take a traditional cyclo ride around the Old Quarter.

Alongside discovering Hanoi's rich cultural and historic offerings, be sure to savor pho (Vietnamese beef noodle soup) in Hanoi's Old Quarter — the country's gastronomic hub.

Day 3: Day trip to Tam Coc

Taking a day trip from Hanoi to Tam Coc in the scenic Ninh Binh Province is a must for nature lovers. 

After traveling by bus or private car (it takes around a 2 hours), start your experience with a peaceful boat ride along the Ngo Dong River. You'll wind through dramatic limestone karsts, lush rice fields and get to see  three natural caves, including Hang Ca.

Next, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese meal at a local restaurant before exploring Bich Dong Pagoda — a beautiful temple complex nestled in the cliffs. 

Day 4-5: Transfer to Sapa and explore

Day 4 will see you travel from Hanoi to Sapa — a town that's renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural diversity.

Spend your first day exploring terraced rice fields, visiting local markets, and meeting ethnic communities like the Hmong and Dao — book the services of a local guide to maximise the experience, and your time. 

On day 5, head to the Fansipan Cable Car Station to reach the summit of Southeast Asia’s highest peak, followed by visiting a duo of delightful waterfalls — Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall.

Day 6-7: Discover Mai Chau

Next, it's time to head to the serene valley of Mai Chau — an area that's known for its lush landscapes and ethnic minority groups, primarily the White Thai tribe. 

Using a combination of train to Hanoi, and then a bus, the journey takes 10-11 hours, while a private car transfer will take around 9 hours. Either way, you're looking at a full day of travel.

Come day 7, explore the valley by bike. Alongside cycling lush rice paddies and visiting charming villages, be sure to stop at Chieu Cave, with its stunning stalactites and panoramic views. 

In the evening, enjoy a traditional dance performance by White Thai villagers while savoring home-cooked dishes and local rice wine.

Day 8-10: Head to Ha Giang

The next leg of this North Vietnam itinerary will take you to Ha Giang — a less traveled area that's known for its winding roads and dramatic mountain landscapes. 

To get here, you'll need to head back to Hanoi to connect by bus, or else book a private car — both options take 10-12 hours. Though long, the journey is incredibly scenic, serving epic mountain views as you move closer to Ha Giang.

During your 3-night stay, be sure to explore the famed Ma Pi Leng Pass — either by motorbike or car — for breathtaking views of winding roads and the Nho Que River. 

Into culture? Visit the Vuong Family Mansion — a Hmong palace that showcases traditional architecture — and take time to explore  Dong Van Old Town, which is known for its charming stone houses and lively night market. 

Day 11-12: Uncover Lang Son

This North Vietnam itinerary winds up in Lang Son, a border city that's known for its historic sites and natural caves. 

The 8-10-hour journey by bus or private transfer will see you soak up northern Vietnam’s scenic mountain scenery.

Next morning, rise early visit the Tam Thanh Cave, which is famous for its stunning stalactites, tranquil pond, and ancient Vietnamese poem carved into the rock. Nearby, explore Nhi Thanh Cave, which boasts intricate formations and a serene temple.

End your day wandering Lang Son’s bustling Dong Kinh Market, ideal for picking up souvenirs or sampling local delicacies. 

Alternatively, you might want to explore the Mac Dynasty Citadel, an historic fortress that serves panoramic views of the hills around Lang Son.

When the time comes for you to jump on your homeward flight, it's a 3–4 hour drive back to Hanoi.

Explore more North Vietnam itineraries.

How to plan your Vietnam travel itinerary

Daunted by the thought of prepping for your trip? Take tips from our editor's personal guide to how to plan a trip to Vietnam, or contact our Vietnam travel experts to have them take care of every last detail.

In the meantime, whether you're planning to go it alone, or are thinking of booking an organized trip, here are some pointers to help you plan your perfect Vietnam itinerary.

Getting around Vietnam

Vietnam boasts a pleasing variety of transportation alternatives, including trains, local buses, luxury shared vans, and flying on domestic airlines like Bamboo Airways or VietJet. 

Taxi services like Grab App (similar to Uber), convenient minivans, and scooters are also readily available. 

Or, if the thrill of two wheels pulls you in, riding a moped is an excellent way to navigate Vietnam. Just remember to have full insurance and a valid driving license.

For more detail, read up on  getting around Vietnam.

North to South? Or vice versa?

Whether you choose to travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City or vice versa primarily depends on what you plan to do at either end, and your personal preferences. 

For instance, traveling from the south to the north comes with the tranquility and magnificence of winding up in the serene environs of a backpacker haven. 

Is Vietnam expensive?

Known for being an incredibly affordable country, Vietnam can be enjoyed on an average daily budget of around 25-50 USD. 

If you're on a budget, Vietnam's affordable food is another major incentive to visit. Many restaurants charge a mere $2-3 for a scrumptious local meal.

That said, high-end travelers can enjoy luxury experiences for 100-200 USD a day. 

In short, Vietnam does an excellent job of providing options for various comfort levels and budgets, from dormitories in 3-dollar hostels to luxurious five-star hotel suites.

How many days do you need in Vietnam?

While most travelers spend about two weeks in Vietnam — with many focusing on the north to experience greater variety in a shorter travel time — we advise looking to stay here for around there weeks, if at all possible.

Does Vietnam invite even longer stays? Absolutely! If your visa allows, and your desire for exploration remains unquenched, you could spend a month (or longer) in Vietnam for yet more immersion.

Best places to add to your Vietnam trip

North Vietnam

When it comes to the Northern region of Vietnam, Hanoi, the vibrant capital city of Vietnam, is a must-visst for its stately Vietnamese pagodas, French colonial architecture, and modern infrastructure.

Meanwhile, scenic Sapa, known for its trekking routes and homestays with Hmong tribes, offers unique cultural experiences.

The UNESCO-designated Ha Long Bay  an archipelago of around 1600 jade-colored limestone islands rising from the sea — is another top atraction of the north. 

Famous for its awe-inspiring cliffs and caves, temples, and river systems, Ninh Binh is the ideal destination for those who wish to immerse themselves in Vietnam's scenic countryside. 

Mai Chau, on the other hand, is a less-visited hub from which to experience Vietnam's hill tribe culture.

Central Vietnam

The Central region of Vietnam is the nation's geographical and historic heart.

Hue, Hoi An and Da Nang are among Central Vietnam's most iconic cities, with the often-overlooked, nature-rich Phong Nha also well worth a visit.

Hue, the former imperial seat of the Nguyen Dynasty, is steeped in historic significance, as is Hoi An, with its a beautifully preserved ancient town.

Meanwhile, Da Nang, one of Vietnam's largest cities, boasts a stunning coastline, the fire-breathing Dragon Bridge, and proximity to top beaches, and the Ba Na Hills.

South Vietnam

The historic, motorbike-filled Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit of South Vietnam. While here, don't miss heading to the War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon.

From here, you could board a boat bound for the sublime shores of Phu Quoc — an idyllic island that serves as a gateway to pristine beaches and a breathtaking national park. 

Then there's the Mekong Delta — Vietnam's agricultural heartland, with its labyrinth of waterways, and noteworthy noodle dishes like Bún Chả and Bánh Canh.

When's the best time to visit Vietnam?

Wondering when to go to Vietnam? It's worth knowing that the busier, pricier high season runs from November to April, when cooler, dry weather prevails across most of the country. 

Meanwhile, the quiet, cheaper low season spans from May to October, coinciding with the very rainy monsoon season.

You also need to be aware of regional differences around the country, as outlined below.

North Vietnam

Including cities like Hanoi and Sapa, the ideal time to visit North Vietnam is from October to April when the weather is cooler and less humid — perfect for trekking and sightseeing.

Central Vietnam

The Central region,which includes Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An, is best visited from February to May. During this period, rainfall is moderate and temperatures are warm rather than super-hot.

South Vietnam

Including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, the South is best visited from December to April to avoid the monsoon season.

Do you need a visa to enter Vietnam?

Whether you need a visa to enter Vietnam depends on your citizenship.

For example, UK citizens planning to visit Vietnam don't need a visa for stays of up to 45 days, while US citizens are required to have a visa.

While this makes planning a little more complicated, an e-visa portal is easy to navigate ahead of your vacation.

To ensure a smooth trip, read more Vietnam visa advice.

Ready to venture to Vietnam? Read more detail on how to spend 7 days in Vietnam, 10 days in Vietnam, and 14 days in Vietnam. 

You could also reach out to our Vietnam local travel experts, who are on hand to curate a personalized itinerary that's perfect for you.