Vietnam in 10 Days: A Cultural Journey from North to South

Hanoi - Halong Bay - HueHoi An - Ho Chi Minh - Cai Be - Can Tho

10 days, 9 nights

From $ 930

Embark on a beautifully tailored 10-day journey showcasing Vietnam’s most iconic destinations from North to South. Designed especially for first-time visitors, this tour offers a perfect introduction to the country’s vibrant culture, breathtaking scenery, and deep-rooted history. With every moment thoughtfully planned, your adventure through Vietnam promises unforgettable memories and a rich, immersive experience.

What unique experiences await during your trip?

  • Explore Hanoi, the 1,000-year-old capital famed for its mouthwatering cuisine, classic Asian charm, traditional silks, and local handicrafts.

  • Enjoy an overnight cruise through the otherworldly landscapes of UNESCO-listed Halong Bay, surrounded by towering limestone karsts.

  • Visit Hoi An, a remarkably well-preserved ancient town that once thrived as a Southeast Asian trading port between the 15th and 19th centuries.

  • Venture into the Cu Chi Tunnels to experience firsthand the underground network used during wartime, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s resilient history.

📅 Day 1
HANOI - ARRIVAL
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Upon arrival in Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant 1,000-year-old capital nestled in the north, you’ll be warmly welcomed at the airport by an English-speaking guide. After settling into your hotel in the lively city center, the rest of the day’s activities will depend on your arrival time.

Begin your journey with a deep dive into Hanoi’s rich culture and history:

  • Visit King Ly Thai To Square, a symbol of the capital’s thousand-year legacy.

  • Stroll around the iconic Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem) and discover Ngoc Son Temple and Turtle Islet, located right in the heart of the city.

  • Wander through the bustling Old Quarter with its 36 craft guild streets, each once dedicated to a specific trade. Stop by Ma May Street to explore a traditional Tube House, a hallmark of Hanoi’s architecture.

  • Enjoy a leisurely cyclo (cycle rickshaw) ride through Hanoi’s French Quarter, passing by colonial-era landmarks such as the Grand Opera House, Metropole Hotel, State Bank, and Central Post Office.

End your first day with a relaxing night at the hotel, setting the tone for a memorable 10-day journey across Vietnam from north to south.

📅 Day 2
HANOI - HALONG BAY
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Depart for Ha Long Bay, Vietnam’s most stunning natural wonder and one of Asia’s most breathtaking landscapes. Upon arrival, board a traditional wooden junk, receive a warm welcome from the crew, and begin your unforgettable cruise through the bay. Your journey takes you to Bai Tu Long, the lesser-traveled northern part of Ha Long Bay:

  • Marvel at the bay’s spectacular limestone karsts and islets, shaped like sails, dogs, roosters, incense sticks, and more.

  • Discover Thien Canh Son Cave, home to impressive stalagmites and stalactites formed over thousands of years.

  • Continue sailing toward Cap La, where you can enjoy kayaking or take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters (weather permitting).

  • In the late afternoon, unwind on the junk’s upper deck as you soak in the serene surroundings.

A delicious lunch and dinner will be served on board, featuring local specialties.

In the evening, enjoy free time to relax, play cards, or try your hand at night fishing.

Overnight on board, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the bay.

📅 Day 3
HALONG BAY - HANOI - EVENING FLIGHT TO HUE
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Wake up at dawn to witness a magical moment—the first light of day illuminating the countless limestone peaks of the bay. Begin your morning with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the upper deck, surrounded by calm waters and misty silhouettes.

Later, set out on a boat or kayak excursion to visit the charming fishing village of Vung Vieng, where you may have the opportunity to interact with local villagers and learn about their way of life.

Return to the junk for lunch on board, then disembark and head back to Hanoi.

In the evening, take a domestic flight to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital nestled in the central region.

Overnight stay in Hue.

📅 Day 4
HUE - CITY TOUR
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Begin your day with a guided city tour of Hue, Vietnam’s last imperial capital (1802–1945), rich in royal history and cultural depth.

  • Visit the Imperial City, the former residence and administrative center of 13 Nguyen emperors over 143 years. Explore its majestic gates, palaces, and historic pavilions.

  • Continue to the mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang, famed for his strict Confucian rule—and for fathering 142 children with 43 concubines. The site is a masterpiece of harmony between architecture and nature.

  • Stop by Phu Mong village, known for its traditional garden houses, a signature of Hue’s refined heritage and royal lifestyle.

  • Visit either the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, perched along the Perfume River and widely considered Hue’s most beautiful temple, or opt for the peaceful Tu Hieu Pagoda, the resting place of the Nguyen dynasty’s eunuchs. If timing permits, you may witness a serene monks’ prayer session.

  • Conclude your day at Dong Ba Market, the oldest and largest market in Hue, where you can browse local specialties such as conical hats, traditional tunics (áo dài), and local snacks.

Overnight at your hotel in Hue.

📅 Day 5
HUE COUNTRYSIDE TOUR
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Start the day with a peaceful boat ride up the Perfume River, one of the most poetic waterways in Vietnam. Your first stop is the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, perched on a hill covered with lush fir trees, offering panoramic views of the river and countryside.

Continue to Thuy Bieu Village, renowned for its high-quality grapefruits. Enjoy a bike ride through quiet, shaded paths, surrounded by thousands of grapefruit and other fruit trees. This is a perfect opportunity to experience the calm and greenery of rural Hue.

Visit a local farming family, where you’ll be warmly welcomed. Take part in a cooking session, preparing traditional dishes with your hosts and enjoying the meal you’ve helped create.

In the afternoon, travel by car to Sinh Village, known for its centuries-old craft of folk painting, especially used for worship. Take a stroll through the village and visit Mr. Ky Huu Phuoc, an artist with over 60 years of experience, to learn about the steps of creating these unique decorative artworks—and perhaps pick up a meaningful souvenir.

Continue your journey to Thanh Tien Village, famous for its handmade paper flowers. This 400-year-old tradition has been passed down through generations. Flowers like lotus, rose, tuberose, and sunflower are carefully crafted from paper, bamboo, and other natural materials with astonishing realism. Visit a workshop to witness the delicate craftsmanship firsthand.

Return to Hue in the late afternoon. The rest of the day is free for relaxation.

Overnight at the hotel in Hue.

📅 Day 6
HUE - HOI AN
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Begin your journey south toward Hoi An, a charming ancient town located about 150 km from Hue. Along the scenic drive, several memorable stops await:

  • Pause at the peaceful, lesser-known stretches of coast at Thuan An and Lang Co Beaches, where calm lagoons support local fish farms, offering a glimpse into the daily life of fishing communities.

  • Ascend the spectacular Hai Van Pass, the highest mountain pass in central Vietnam, offering panoramic views and a dramatic natural divide between Hue and Da Nang.

  • Stop by small melaleuca oil workshops, where locals produce this traditional essential oil used for medicinal and wellness purposes.

  • Pass through the remarkable roadside cemeteries, often called ‘Ghost Towns’. These unique burial sites feature elaborate tombs styled like miniature castles, blending various Asian architectural motifs to create an impressive and surreal landscape.

In the afternoon, arrive in Hoi An, check in at your hotel, and relax for the evening.

📅 Day 7
Hoi An full day tour
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Spend a full day soaking in the atmosphere of Hoi An, one of Vietnam’s most historic and romantic towns. Once a major trading port on the Central Coast, Hoi An boasts well-preserved architecture and a peaceful riverside setting that takes you back in time.

Your morning exploration includes:

  • Phuc Kien Temple: Originally an assembly hall, this site now serves as a temple dedicated to the sea goddess who protects fishermen and sailors. It holds deep cultural and spiritual meaning for Hoi An’s Chinese community.

  • Phuc Thanh Pagoda: Dating back to 1454, it is the oldest pagoda in Hoi An and a peaceful place of worship.

  • Japanese Covered Bridge: Built in 1593, this iconic structure once connected the Chinese and Japanese quarters of the town and remains a symbol of Hoi An.

  • Old Alleys and Ancient Houses: Wander through the narrow streets lined with centuries-old homes, each with a story to tell about the town’s rich past.

  • Silk and Lantern Shops: Browse the colorful shops where traditional silk and lanterns are made. You can even order tailor-made clothing, often ready within 24 hours—an exceptional opportunity for custom-fit fashion.

In the afternoon, continue your discovery with a visit to Van Lang fishing village and the nearby Bay Mau coconut forest. This area, crisscrossed by canals and surrounded by mangrove and coconut palms, remains largely untouched and naturally beautiful.

Travel through scenic countryside routes, passing rice fields, vegetable gardens, local hamlets, handicraft workshops, and traditional boatyards—ideal for photos and cultural encounters.

Upon arrival in Van Lang, you’ll be welcomed by friendly local boatmen who will take you on a fun basket-boat ride through the coconut forest. Relax and admire the landscape, and even try your hand at traditional shrimp-catching techniques.

Return to your hotel afterward.

📅 Day 8
Hoi An - Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh City
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In the morning, transfer to Da Nang International Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the vibrant capital of southern Vietnam. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel.

In the afternoon, embark on a city tour through this bustling metropolis once known as the Pearl of the Far East. Highlights include:

  • Notre Dame Cathedral, built by the French in 1880, and recognized as Vietnam’s first basilica.

  • Central Post Office, a striking example of colonial architecture blending Gothic, Renaissance, and French influences.

  • Dong Khoi Street (formerly Catinat Street), lined with beautifully restored colonial-era buildings.

  • The Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Headquarters, formerly known as Central Park, and considered one of the city’s most elegant colonial structures.

If time allows, continue with visits to:

  • The War Remnants Museum, which offers a powerful look at Vietnam’s history during the American-Vietnamese War (1954–1975).

  • The Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine, where you can explore more than 3,000 years of traditional healing practices.

End the day in Cho Lon (Chinatown), exploring the Temple of the Celestial Lady and Ben Thanh Market, one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic and lively shopping hubs.

Overnight at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

📅 Day 9
Ho Chi Minh - Cai Be - Can Tho
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Set off for the Mekong Delta, a fascinating region where land and water intertwine, located in the southernmost part of Vietnam.

Upon arrival in Cai Be, begin your boat journey through the Mekong’s intricate waterways. Visit local homes and stilt houses, offering a glimpse into life along the river. Stop by artisan workshops to see how traditional products like coconut candy, puffed rice, rice wine, and even snake wine are made. Sample these local treats and observe the vibrant culture of the Delta’s residents.

Hop into a traditional rowing sampan for a peaceful ride through the narrow canals of Tan Phong Islet, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and tranquility.

After a local lunch, continue your cruise toward Vinh Long, with a stop to observe the brick kilns and pottery workshops that highlight the region’s long-standing craftsmanship.

The boat tour ends in Cai Be (Vinh Long). From there, transfer by car to Can Tho City, the heart of the Mekong Delta.

Overnight in Can Tho.

📅 Day 10
Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh - Departure
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On the final day of your 10-day journey through Vietnam, you’ll rise early to experience the vibrant heart of the Mekong Delta. Begin the morning with a boat trip to the famous Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho, where you’ll witness a lively scene of boats packed with fresh produce and local goods—an authentic display of river-based commerce unique to this region.

After exploring the floating market, disembark to visit the nearby An Binh land market, offering a fascinating contrast between traditional land-based and waterborne trading.

Continue your adventure with a transfer to Phong Dien, where you’ll visit a local orchard, sampling tropical fruits and learning about regional agriculture. Then, enjoy a bike ride through peaceful hamlets along the So Dua River, taking in the quiet charm and daily rhythm of life in the Delta.

In the afternoon, head back to Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, marking the end of an unforgettable journey across Vietnam from North to South.

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
Private cruise in legendary Halong Bay
Private cruise in legendary Halong Bay
Add Add to the itinerary
Ancient Hue House: An Architectural and Artistic Masterpiece of Hue
Ancient Hue House: An Architectural and Artistic Masterpiece of Hue
Add Add to the itinerary
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$ 930

per person

Tour Price

This price, based on a group of four staying in standard hotels, is subject to change depending on:

  • The time of travel
  • The total number of participants
  • The selected service options

This price includes:

  • Accommodation throughout the tour, either in hotels or with local families
  • All transportation as outlined in the program, by private car
  • English-speaking guide for all visits mentioned in the itinerary
  • All activities listed in the program, including entrance fees to tourist sites
  • Domestic flights in economy class with airport taxes included
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary
  • Bottled water during guided tours (2 x 500ml per traveler per day)
  • Applicable government taxes (VAT, etc.)

This price does not include:

  • International flights from your country of residence
  • Visa fees, payable directly upon arrival at the airport (see VISA section)
  • Bank charges related to payment transactions
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Personal beverages during meals (e.g., beer, soft drinks, fruit juice)
  • Meals not specifically mentioned in the program
  • SIM card and mobile phone plans
  • Tips, personal expenses, and any other services not listed under “Included Services”

Interested in this tour?

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

As a general estimate, a 2-week trip to Vietnam costs around $1,450 per person when traveling as a pair (excluding international flights).

For a 3- to 4-week journey, the budget typically ranges from $1,900 to $2,500 per person. Traveling in a larger group (4 to 6 people) will usually reduce the cost per person.

Keep in mind that the final price depends on several factors, including:

  • Duration of your stay

  • Travel period (high or low season)

  • Choice of activities and service level

To receive an accurate and personalized quote, please submit a request. One of our travel advisors will get in touch with detailed information tailored to your preferences.

A tailor-made trip is a personalized travel experience built entirely around your preferences—such as your desired travel dates, trip length, budget, and the types of services or experiences you value most.

From the planning stage to on-site support, a local travel expert helps coordinate every detail: transportation, accommodation, guided visits, and more. This approach allows you to enjoy a seamless and enriching journey that reflects your interests and pace—ensuring that every aspect of the trip is thoughtfully designed just for you.

Once you’re happy with the proposed itinerary, simply send us an email to confirm your tour reservation. Your travel advisor will then provide the necessary booking documents, including:

  • A reservation form with full details of your chosen tour and space to complete your personal information. You’ll need to return the completed form along with a scan of your passports, which will help us organize all services correctly.

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

Your trip will be officially confirmed once we receive both the completed form and the deposit. We’ll then send you a travel contract summarizing your trip’s details—such as travel dates, duration, total cost, deposit paid, and your contact details.

The price shown on our website is based on a group of four travelers staying in standard hotel accommodations, and it does not include international flights.

As our tours are fully private and customizable, the final cost may vary depending on several factors:

  • Your travel period (seasonality)

  • The number of participants

  • Your chosen level of services (accommodation category, activities, etc.)

To receive an accurate and personalized quote, please contact us directly with your travel preferences. Our advisor will prepare a detailed proposal tailored to your needs.

Vietnam’s climate varies greatly from north to south due to its geography and length of over 2,000 km. While one region might be rainy or cool, another could be sunny and dry at the same time.

In general, the ideal time to visit is from October to April, when the weather is more stable across most parts of the country.

The best months are:

  • October to November

  • March to May
    These periods are pleasantly warm and among the driest months of the year.

If you travel in July or August, expect warmer temperatures (30–35°C), though places like Halong Bay often enjoy sunny skies. This is also the season when the rice terraces in northern Vietnam are especially beautiful—lush green or golden yellow.

In the south, even during the rainy season, showers are usually short and occur in the late afternoon, with sunny weather for most of the day.

If you already have a preferred travel period in mind (summer, winter, etc.), let us know—our advisors will recommend the best regions to explore during that time.

Vietnam’s climate varies greatly from north to south due to its diverse geography and its length of about 2,000 km. While one region may be humid, cold, or rainy, another can be pleasantly sunny at the same time.

Based on our experience, the best period to visit Vietnam is from October to April, when the weather tends to be more stable across most areas.

Within this range, the optimal months are October to November and March to May. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant and they are among the driest times of the year.

Although July and August can be quite warm (30–35°C), places like Halong Bay usually enjoy sunny weather. This season also offers the chance to see the stunning terraced rice fields in the north, glowing green or golden yellow.

In the southern region, even during the rainy season, rainfall is usually brief—lasting just an hour or two each day—with the rest of the day remaining sunny.

If you already have specific dates or seasons in mind, such as winter or summer, please let us know. We can advise you on the best regions to visit during your preferred timeframe.

If you are a citizen of 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 to enter Vietnam for stays up to 45 days.

Additionally, Switzerland, Poland, and the Czech Republic have a special visa exemption from March 1 to December 31, 2025, applicable for organized tours.

However, citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States are not exempt and must obtain a visa before arriving in Vietnam. You have three main options for this:

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

  2. Visa on Arrival (VOA): Available only for travelers arriving by air, requiring a pre-approval letter from an authorized travel agency.

  3. Visa via Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate: Apply in person or by mail at the embassy or consulate in your home country.

For convenience and efficiency, we strongly recommend applying for an E-Visa. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date and have proof of onward travel.

Feel free to contact us if you need assistance with your visa application.

International credit and debit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at hotels, shops, and restaurants throughout Vietnam. However, keep in mind that Vietnamese banks may charge an additional fee of about 3% to 4% on these transactions.

Some businesses in major cities also accept payments in Euros or US Dollars, especially hotels and restaurants.

For smaller purchases, it’s best to use the local currency, Vietnamese Dong (VND). You can easily exchange foreign currency at banks, jewelry stores, or your hotel. Additionally, ATMs are widely available for withdrawing VND using international cards.

You can settle the remaining balance using one of these methods:

  • In cash upon arrival: We accept US dollars and Euros, with the exchange rate applied on the payment day. Please ensure your bills are new and not damaged, as old or defaced notes cannot be accepted.

  • By credit card at our office upon arrival: Payment is processed through our card terminal. Note that there is an additional bank fee—3% for Visa or Mastercard payments, and 4% for American Express. Payments are made in the local currency.

  • By bank transfer: Please complete the transfer at least 10 days before your departure to ensure your payment reaches us on time before the trip begins.

You can pay your deposit using one of the following methods:

  • Bank transfer: Our account details are provided in your travel invoice for a direct transfer.

  • Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex): Payments can be made securely through our bank’s online payment platform. This option includes insurance benefits such as cancellation coverage, medical expenses, and repatriation.

Please note that credit card payments incur additional fees:

  • 3% extra on the deposit if paying with Visa or Mastercard

  • 4% extra on the deposit if paying with American Express

All payments are processed in the local currency.

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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Vietnam in 10 Days: A Cultural Journey from North to South