10 Days Across Vietnam: Discover the Nation from South to North

Ho Chi Minh - Mekong Delta - Hoi An - Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay

10 days, 9 nights

From $ 945

Embark on a captivating 10-day journey through Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry, traveling from the energetic streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the awe-inspiring beauty of Ha Long Bay. Each stop along the way has been carefully selected to highlight the best of Vietnam—its landscapes, traditions, and warm hospitality.

Experience breathtaking destinations and uncover the unique charm of each region. From bustling markets and ancient towns to misty mountains and serene waters, this south-to-north expedition offers a balanced blend of discovery and relaxation, ensuring every day brings new and unforgettable memories.

Let this journey be your gateway to Vietnam’s iconic beauty and vibrant spirit.

What unique experiences await during your trip?

  • Explore Vietnam’s iconic sites from the vibrant south to the scenic north
  • Cruise through Ha Long Bay aboard a traditional wooden junk boat
  • Visit the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, a remarkable remnant of wartime history
  • Immerse yourself in the culture of the Mekong Delta, where riverside life thrives
  • Discover Ninh Binh, often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” with its karst landscapes and rice fields
  • Enjoy a balanced itinerary that blends guided sightseeing, personal discovery, and relaxation
📅 Day 1
Ho Chi Minh - Arrival
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Arrive in this dynamic metropolis—formerly known as Saigon and once the capital of South Vietnam. After your long flight, take the rest of the day to unwind and adjust to the time difference at your own pace. A friendly local guide will greet you at the airport and ensure you have a smooth and comfortable start to your 10-day journey from south to north Vietnam.

📅 Day 2
Ho Chi Minh City Tour
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Wake up refreshed in the comfort of your luxurious hotel and enjoy a delightful breakfast before setting out on a day of discovery with your private guide.

Uncover the vibrant spirit and historical depth of Ho Chi Minh City through a curated selection of highlights:

  • Ben Thanh Market – A lively hub of local commerce and a true symbol of Saigon’s energy

  • Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office – Iconic landmarks of French colonial architecture, with the post office designed by Gustave Eiffel

  • Headquarters of the People’s Committee – A striking colonial-era building and one of the city’s most elegant structures

  • Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine – An insightful journey into Vietnam’s ancient healing practices

  • Chinatown (Cho Lon) – Explore the bustling streets and visit the Thien Hau Temple, dedicated to the Heavenly Lady

  • Cu Chi Tunnels – Venture into the fascinating underground network that played a key role during the Vietnam War

Return to the city in the late afternoon, enriched by a day filled with culture, history, and the multifaceted charm of Ho Chi Minh City.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

📅 Day 3
Mekong Delta - Fly to Danang for Hoi An
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Submerge yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Mekong Delta. Begin your day with a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Ben Tre, a region known for its lush landscapes and river culture. There, you’ll board a private motorized boat and cruise along one of the most picturesque tributaries of the Mekong River.

Your journey includes visits to local craft villages, where you’ll discover:

  • A coconut candy workshop, showcasing traditional methods

  • A brick-making facility, using age-old techniques

  • A straw mat weaving workshop, preserving local craftsmanship

Continue with a motor cart ride through verdant fruit gardens, and savor a delicious lunch at a peaceful garden restaurant, offering local specialties. Then, drift gently along a shaded canal beneath graceful nipa palm trees before returning to your boat.

In the late afternoon, you’ll be transferred directly to Tan Son Nhat Airport for a convenient one-hour evening flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, enjoy a warm welcome and a smooth transfer to your hotel in Hoi An, where you can relax and settle in for the night.

Overnight stay in Hoi An.

📅 Day 4
Hoi An - City Tour
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Begin your morning adventure at 8:00 a.m. with a friendly local guide who will lead you through the enchanting streets of Hoi An, a beautifully preserved trading port steeped in history and cultural fusion.

Highlights of your guided walking tour include:

  • Cam Pho Communal House – A symbol of community spirit and architectural elegance

  • Japanese Covered Bridge – An iconic 17th-century structure blending Japanese and Vietnamese styles

  • Quan Thang Ancient House – A stunning example of preserved merchant architecture

  • Fujian Assembly Hall – A colorful and ornate temple dedicated to sea goddess Thien Hau

  • Hoi An Central Market – Dive into the rhythm of daily life and sample local treats as you stroll among vibrant stalls

Wrap up your cultural journey with a hands-on lantern-making workshop, where you’ll craft your own traditional lantern alongside local artisans—a meaningful souvenir and fun cultural experience.

The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace or return to your hotel to relax.

Overnight in Hoi An.

📅 Day 5
Hoi An - Hanoi
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Enjoy a peaceful morning in Hoi An, where you can either squeeze in a few final discoveries in the Old Town or simply unwind on the golden sands of Cua Dai Beach.

Around midday, it’s time to prepare for your short flight to Hanoi, Vietnam’s ancient capital.

Upon arrival in Hanoi, a city steeped in over a thousand years of history, you’ll be warmly welcomed at the airport by an English-speaking guide who will assist with your transfer to a centrally located hotel. The afternoon’s itinerary will be adapted to your arrival time, allowing for a gentle introduction to the capital’s highlights:

  • King Ly Thai To Square – Step into the city’s deep-rooted history at this symbolic location

  • Hoan Kiem Lake – Discover the legendary Lake of the Restored Sword, featuring the Ngoc Son Temple and Turtle Islet

  • Hanoi Old Quarter – Stroll through the maze of 36 ancient guild streets, each named after the traditional craft or trade once practiced there. Don’t miss Ma May Street, where you can explore a preserved Tube House, showcasing classic Hanoi architecture

After your introduction to the city, enjoy free time to relax or continue exploring at your own pace.

Overnight stay in Hanoi.

📅 Day 6
Hanoi City Tour
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Your day begins with a personal pick-up from your hotel by your local guide. Depending on your preference, you can choose to explore the city in either a luxurious limousine for comfort or an adventurous motorbike ride for a more immersive experience.

Today’s highlights include some of Hanoi’s most iconic and meaningful landmarks:

  • Temple of Literature – A revered symbol of Vietnam’s educational heritage, dedicated to Confucius and once home to the country’s first university. A popular site where students still come to pray for academic success.

  • One Pillar Pagoda – Famous for its unique lotus-inspired structure, this small yet sacred pagoda is one of Asia’s most distinctive architectural gems.

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – A solemn and essential stop where visitors come to pay homage to the revered leader of Vietnam’s independence movement.

  • Tran Quoc Pagoda – Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temple, set against the peaceful backdrop of West Lake. A perfect blend of spiritual significance and elegant architecture.

After a fulfilling morning of discovery, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.

Your guide will then escort you back to your hotel, ensuring you return with a deeper appreciation of Hanoi’s rich culture and history.

Overnight in Hanoi.

📅 Day 7
Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Hanoi
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This morning, depart for Ninh Binh, a region celebrated for its dramatic limestone karsts, lush rice fields, and peaceful waterways—earning it the nickname “Ha Long Bay on land.”

Your first stop is Mua Mountain in Ninh Xuan. Climb the 486-step white stone staircase to reach the summit of this bell-shaped peak and take in the breathtaking panoramic view over the Tam Coc valley and its winding rivers below.

Continue your journey to Tam Coc, where you’ll enjoy a leisurely bike ride through quiet rural paths, passing by local homes, rice paddies, and karst landscapes.

In the afternoon, embark on a serene boat ride along the Ngo Dong River. Let local rowers guide you through Tam Coc’s majestic scenery—gliding between towering limestone cliffs, rice fields, and beneath three natural caves carved into the mountains.

After a full day of exploration and natural beauty, return to Hanoi for a relaxing evening.

Overnight stay in Hanoi.

📅 Day 8
Hanoi - Halong Bay
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Begin your day with a journey to Ha Long Bay, often hailed as the most breathtaking bay in Vietnam and one of the most enchanting landscapes in Asia. Upon arrival, step aboard a traditional wooden junk and receive a warm welcome from the crew as you set sail into a world of natural wonders.

Your unforgettable cruise focuses on the serene Bai Tu Long Bay, the northern and less-traveled part of Ha Long Bay, offering quieter waters and unspoiled scenery.

Highlights of your day on the bay:

  • Marvel at the iconic limestone islets, each sculpted by nature into unique shapes—sails, roosters, dogs, and incense burners.

  • Explore Thien Canh Son Cave, adorned with thousands-of-years-old stalagmites and stalactites in a surreal setting.

  • Kayak through the emerald waters and, if weather allows, enjoy a refreshing swim in the calm bay near Cap La.

  • In the late afternoon, relax on the sundeck, soaking in panoramic views as the sun begins to set.

Participate in an onboard cooking demonstration, where you’ll learn to make authentic Vietnamese spring rolls, guided by the chef.

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch and dinner, prepared fresh by the skilled culinary team on board.

The evening is yours to unwind and take in the peaceful atmosphere—whether with a game of cards, night fishing, or simply admiring the moonlit bay from the deck.

Overnight stay on board your traditional junk.

📅 Day 9
Halong Bay - Hanoi
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Wake up early to witness a magical sunrise over the bay, as the first light of dawn bathes the iconic limestone peaks in a golden glow—a moment of pure tranquility.

Start your day with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck, allowing you to fully embrace the calm, meditative energy of the morning on the water.

After a leisurely breakfast, the cruise continues through more stunning seascapes. Enjoy lunch on board as your junk slowly returns to the harbor.

Disembark in the early afternoon and make your journey back to Hanoi by private vehicle.

Overnight stay in Hanoi.

📅 Day 10
Hanoi - departure
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Your incredible 10-day journey through Vietnam from south to north comes to a close today. Depending on your flight schedule, you may choose to relax at your hotel or venture out for some final exploration—perhaps picking up souvenirs in Hanoi’s lively streets and markets.

When the time comes, our dedicated team will arrange your airport transfer, ensuring a smooth and timely departure.

As you head home, take a moment to reflect on the memories you’ve made—from bustling cities and ancient towns to serene bays and vibrant cultures.

Until next time, Vietnam awaits your return. Safe travels!

Optional activities

Below are small activities or 'unique and memorable' experiences to add to your itinerary, making your trip more complete and remarkable.

The show “Tinh hoa Bac Bo – The Quintessence of Tonkin”
The show “Tinh hoa Bac Bo – The Quintessence of Tonkin”
Add Add to the itinerary
Hanoi Egg Coffee
Hanoi Egg Coffee
Add Add to the itinerary
Cooking classes in Hoi An
Cooking classes in Hoi An
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The “Hoi An Memories” show
The “Hoi An Memories” show
Add Add to the itinerary
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$ 945

per person

Tour Price

The price provided is based on a group of four travelers staying in standard hotels. Please note that the final cost may vary depending on the following factors:

  • Travel period
  • Number of travelers
  • Selected services and accommodation level

This price includes:

  • Accommodation throughout the tour, in standard hotels or with local hosts
  • Private transportation as outlined in the itinerary
  • Services of an English-speaking guide for all scheduled visits
  • All activities and entrance fees mentioned in the program
  • Domestic flights in economy class, including airport taxes
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary
  • Drinking water during guided tours (2 x 500ml bottles per traveler per day)
  • Applicable government taxes (VAT, etc.)

This price does not include:

  • International flights to and from Vietnam
  • Visa fees, payable directly upon arrival at airport customs
  • Bank transaction fees related to payment
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Beverages during meals (e.g. beer, soft drinks, fruit juice)
  • Meals not mentioned in the program
  • SIM card and mobile data plans
  • Tips, personal expenses, and any services not listed under “The Price Includes”

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Tell us about your travel plans! We will prepare a personalized program and quote that meets your desires.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, 10 days is enough to experience many of Vietnam’s most captivating highlights. With a well-designed itinerary, you can explore a rich blend of vibrant cities, historic landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural experiences.

By focusing on key regions—the dynamic South, the charming Central coast, and the scenic North—you’ll gain a well-rounded perspective of Vietnam’s diverse beauty and heritage, from bustling Ho Chi Minh City and peaceful Hoi An to the majestic landscapes of Ha Long Bay.

As a general guideline:

  • A 2-week trip to Vietnam typically costs around $1,450 per person when traveling as a couple (excluding international airfare).

  • For a 3- to 4-week journey, expect to budget between $1,900 and $2,500 per person.

  • Traveling in a group (4 to 6 people) often reduces the cost per person, making the trip more economical.

Please note that prices vary depending on your travel period, length of stay, and preferred services or activities.

For a personalized quote, feel free to submit a request, and one of our travel advisors will be happy to assist you with tailored pricing and recommendations.

A 10-day family-friendly itinerary in Vietnam can blend culture, adventure, and relaxation to keep both kids and adults engaged. Here are some top family-oriented experiences:

  • Hanoi’s Old Quarter: Take a fun cyclo ride through the bustling streets and visit interactive sites like the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, great for kids to learn about local cultures.

  • Ha Long Bay Cruise: Enjoy a scenic boat tour with activities like kayaking, cave exploration, and swimming at quiet beaches—perfect for family bonding.

  • Hoi An: Join a lantern-making workshop, explore the atmospheric ancient town, or go biking through the countryside to discover traditional villages.

  • Ho Chi Minh City: Visit the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, and take a light adventure to the Cu Chi Tunnels, where older children can learn about Vietnam’s wartime history in an engaging way.

These activities offer a balance of education, fun, and cultural discovery for families of all ages.

Customized travel means your trip is entirely tailored to your preferences—including travel dates, trip duration, level of comfort, activities, and budget.

A dedicated local travel advisor will help you design the itinerary, taking care of all logistical aspects such as transportation, accommodations, guided visits, and experiences. You’ll also receive on-the-ground support throughout your journey.

This option ensures a personalized, worry-free travel experience, perfectly adapted to your needs and interests—whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural immersion, family-friendly fun, or pure relaxation.

Once you approve the itinerary proposed by one of our travel advisors, simply confirm your reservation by email. Your advisor will then send you the necessary booking documents, including:

  • A reservation form with detailed information about your tour and a section for your personal and contact details. Please fill out this form and return it to us, along with a scan of your passports, which we’ll need to finalize the arrangements.

  • A travel invoice requesting a 25% deposit of the total tour cost.

Your trip will be officially confirmed once we receive both the completed reservation form and the deposit payment. At that point, we will send you a travel contract outlining all key details: the itinerary, travel dates, total price, deposit amount, and your contact information.

The price shown on our website excludes international flights and is based on a group of 4 travelers staying in standard hotels.

Since our tours are private and fully customized, the final cost may vary depending on several factors, including:

  • Travel period

  • Number of travelers

  • Preferred level of services and accommodations

To receive an accurate and personalized quote, we invite you to contact us directly. One of our travel advisors will be happy to assist you with a detailed proposal tailored to your needs.

Vietnam has a diverse climate from north to south due to its varied terrain and its long stretch of about 2,000 km. While one region might be humid, cold, or rainy, another can be pleasantly sunny. Based on experience, the best time to visit Vietnam is from October to April.

Within this period, the best months are from October to November and March to May. During these months, the weather is comfortable and they are also the least rainy months of the year. Although July and August can be quite hot (around 30-35 degrees Celsius), Halong Bay usually enjoys sunny weather. This is also the time when you can see the region decorated with endless green or golden terraced rice fields.

In the southern region, even during the rainy season, rain usually lasts only an hour or two each day, with the rest of the day being sunny. If you already have a specific time in mind for your trip—winter, summer, or any other season—please let us know, and we can advise you on the most favorable months to visit.

If you are from the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, the Czech Republic, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, or Belarus, you do not need a visa for stays in Vietnam up to 45 days. Additionally, Switzerland, Poland, and the Czech Republic have a special exemption for organized tours from March 1 to December 31, 2025.

If you are from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or the United States, you are NOT visa-exempt and must obtain a visa before arriving in Vietnam. You have three options to get a visa:

  1. E-Visa – Valid for up to 90 days, single or multiple entries. You can apply online through the official Vietnamese Immigration website. Processing usually takes 3-5 days.

  2. Visa on Arrival (VOA) – Only available for travelers arriving by air. You need a pre-approval letter from an authorized travel agency before departure.

  3. Visa via Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate – Apply in person or by mail in your home country.

For the easiest and most convenient process, we highly recommend applying for an E-Visa. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and have proof of onward travel ready. Feel free to contact us if you need assistance with your visa application.

Yes, you can definitely make changes to the provided itinerary. We specialize in private and tailor-made trips, and our advisors are happy to customize the program according to all your preferences.

International cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at hotels, shops, and restaurants. However, please be aware that Vietnamese banks may charge an additional fee of 3% to 4% for card payments.

Some businesses in major cities also accept payments in euros or US dollars, especially hotels and restaurants. For smaller expenses, it’s more convenient to use Vietnamese Dong (VND). You can easily exchange currency at banks, jewelry stores, or even at your hotel. Additionally, ATMs are widely available for withdrawing VND.

Still have questions or hesitations?

Tap into the expertise of our local experts to get all the information for your trip.

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10 Days Across Vietnam: Discover the Nation from South to North