Vietnam Itinerary: The Ultimate Travel Guide from North to South

Introduction

Planning your Vietnam itinerary can feel overwhelming — and for good reason. Vietnam stretches over 1,600 km from north to south, offering an incredible variety of experiences: ancient cities, tropical beaches, misty mountains, and bustling urban life.

Whether you have one week or two, a well-structured Vietnam itinerary ensures you see the country’s most iconic highlights while leaving time for local culture and relaxation.
Let Private Tour Asia guide you through the perfect routes, destinations, and insider tips to make the most of your journey.

🗺️ How Long Should Your Vietnam Itinerary Be?

• 5-7 days: Great for first-time visitors focusing on a specific region (e.g., North or South).
• 10-14 days: Ideal for travelers wanting a full overview from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.
• 3 weeks+: Perfect for slow travelers or digital nomads exploring deeper and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

🇻🇳 Suggested Vietnam Itineraries

Vietnam offers a breathtaking mix of landscapes, from misty mountains to golden beaches and ancient cities. Depending on how long you have, you can plan an unforgettable Vietnam itinerary that suits your style — whether it’s a quick escape, a cultural adventure, or a full north-to-south exploration.

Here are the most popular and rewarding Vietnam itineraries to inspire your journey.

✈️ 1-Week Northern Vietnam Itinerary: Culture, History & Nature

Day 1–2: Hanoi – The Cultural Capital
Start your Vietnam itinerary in Hanoi, where old-world charm meets vibrant street life. Wander through the Old Quarter, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and take a relaxing walk around Hoan Kiem Lake.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show or join a street food tour to taste authentic pho, bun cha, and egg coffee.

Day 3–4: Ha Long Bay – UNESCO Natural Wonder
Travel east to Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam’s most famous attractions. Board an overnight cruise and explore the emerald waters dotted with limestone islands. Kayak into hidden lagoons, visit Sung Sot Cave, and enjoy a sunset seafood dinner on the deck.
👉 Pro tip: For a quieter experience, opt for nearby Lan Ha Bay.

Day 5–6: Ninh Binh – The “Ha Long Bay on Land”
Continue your journey to Ninh Binh, a peaceful province filled with karst cliffs, rice paddies, and ancient temples. Take a boat ride through the Trang An Landscape Complex or Tam Coc, cycle along riverside paths, and visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, Vietnam’s largest Buddhist temple.

Day 7: Return to Hanoi
Spend your last day relaxing at a local café or shopping for souvenirs before departure.

👉 Perfect for: First-time visitors who want to experience northern Vietnam’s rich culture, scenery, and cuisine within one week.

🏖️ 10-Day Central Vietnam Itinerary: Heritage, Beaches & Adventure

Day 1–3: Hue – The Imperial Legacy
Begin your central Vietnam itinerary in Hue, the former royal capital. Explore the Imperial Citadel, Thai Hoa Palace, and the tranquil Thien Mu Pagoda.
Take a boat trip on the Perfume River to see the elaborate Royal Tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh, blending Eastern and European architecture.
Don’t miss the royal-inspired cuisine — small, artfully presented dishes once made for emperors.

Day 4–6: Hoi An – Ancient Town of Lanterns
Travel along the scenic Hai Van Pass to reach Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the ancient town filled with yellow-painted houses, lantern-lit alleys, and tailor shops.
Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, join a cooking class, and try local dishes like cao lau and white rose dumplings.
Relax at An Bang Beach or take a short bike ride to nearby rice paddies.
👉 Evening highlight: The Hoi An Lantern Festival, when the entire town glows under thousands of colorful lights.

Day 7–8: Da Nang – Coastal City with Modern Energy
Just 30 minutes from Hoi An, Da Nang is a perfect stop for a beach escape. Spend your mornings swimming at My Khe Beach, visit the Marble Mountains, and take a cable car to Ba Na Hills to see the world-famous Golden Bridge.
In the evening, watch the Dragon Bridge breathe fire and enjoy fresh seafood by the sea.

Day 9–10: Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park – Caves & Nature
Head north to explore one of Vietnam’s natural wonders. Phong Nha–Ke Bang is home to the world’s largest cave systems — including Paradise Cave, Phong Nha Cave, and the legendary Son Doong Cave.
Stay in a riverside homestay, cycle through small villages, and experience the beauty of Vietnam’s countryside.

👉 Perfect for: Culture lovers, history buffs, and travelers who enjoy a mix of beaches and outdoor adventure.

🌴 2-Week Vietnam Itinerary: Classic North to South Highlights

This two-week Vietnam itinerary is the ultimate introduction to the country — combining heritage, culture, and relaxation.

Day 1–2: Hanoi – Explore temples, museums, and colonial landmarks.
Day 3–4: Ha Long Bay – Overnight cruise through stunning limestone formations.
Day 5: Fly to Hue – Discover Vietnam’s imperial past.
Day 6–8: Hoi An & Da Nang – Beaches, ancient streets, and local food.
Day 9–10: Nha Trang – Enjoy water sports, island tours, and spa resorts.
Day 11–12: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Visit the War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Day 13–14: Mekong Delta – Cruise through floating markets, tropical fruit farms, and riverside villages.

👉 Perfect for: Travelers seeking the full Vietnam experience — north to south, cities to countryside, adventure to relaxation.

🏕️ 3-Week Vietnam Itinerary: Deep Exploration & Local Experiences

If you have more time, this extended Vietnam itinerary lets you travel slowly, connect deeply, and explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Week 1 – Northern Vietnam:

• Hanoi: Markets, museums, and food tours.
• Sapa: Multi-day treks through rice terraces and ethnic minority villages.
• Ha Giang Loop: Epic mountain roads and panoramic viewpoints.
• Ha Long Bay: Overnight cruise on emerald waters.

Week 2 – Central Vietnam:

• Hue: Imperial heritage and royal tombs.
• Hoi An: Lanterns, beaches, and crafts.
• Da Nang: Golden Bridge and coastal beauty.
• Phong Nha: Caving, jungle trekking, and eco-adventures.

Week 3 – Southern Vietnam:

• Ho Chi Minh City: History, nightlife, and street food.
• Mekong Delta: Floating markets and rural charm.
• Phu Quoc Island: Beach paradise and island hopping.

👉 Perfect for: Travelers who want to go beyond the highlights — connecting with local people, culture, and authentic Vietnam.

🧭 Custom Vietnam Itineraries by Private Tour Asia

Not every traveler has the same interests or pace. That’s why Private Tour Asia offers customized Vietnam itineraries designed around your preferences — from luxury cruises and culinary tours to trekking expeditions and cultural journeys.

Whether you’re a solo explorer, honeymoon couple, or family traveler, Private Tour Asia ensures your Vietnam itinerary is seamless, immersive, and unforgettable.

🚆 Getting Around Vietnam

• Flights: The quickest way to travel between Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
• Trains: The Reunification Express offers scenic routes along the coast.
• Private transfers: Ideal for comfort and flexibility with Private Tour Asia.
• Motorbike & bus: Popular among backpackers for shorter routes.

🌤️ Best Time to Follow Your Vietnam Itinerary

🧭 Travel Tips for a Smooth Vietnam Itinerary

• Apply for a Vietnam e-Visa online before travel.
• Carry local currency (VND) and small bills for markets.
• Dress modestly when visiting temples or pagodas.
• Use Private Tour Asia for guided experiences — local insights make all the difference!
• Stay hydrated, especially in southern regions.

Conclusion

A well-planned Vietnam itinerary opens the door to one of Asia’s most enchanting countries — where every region has its own rhythm, flavor, and story. From Hanoi’s old-world charm to the beaches of Phu Quoc, each stop reveals a new layer of Vietnam’s soul.

✨ Let Private Tour Asia craft your personalized Vietnam itinerary, designed around your travel style, interests, and pace. Whether you’re here for a week or a month, your journey through Vietnam will be unforgettable.

Last Updated on October 18, 2025 by Elena