10 Days in Vietnam: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An & Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam is long and thin, and the smartest way to see it in ten days is north to south with two short flights. This route covers the country's three big flavors: the energy of Hanoi, the limestone seascape of Ha Long Bay, the charm of Hoi An, and the buzz of Ho Chi Minh City.

Days 1–2 — Hanoi

Base yourself in the Old Quarter, where each street was historically known for a trade. Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, visit the Temple of Literature, and see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum area. Hanoi is a food city first: try pho for breakfast, bun cha for lunch, and egg coffee in the afternoon.

Days 3–4 — Ha Long Bay

Take an overnight cruise through Ha Long Bay (or quieter Lan Ha Bay), among thousands of limestone islands rising from the water. Most cruises include kayaking, a cave visit and meals, with transfers from Hanoi. One night is enough to get the full experience.

Days 5–7 — Hoi An

Fly from Hanoi to Da Nang, then it's a short drive to Hoi An. Its Ancient Town is lit with silk lanterns at night, and its tailors can make clothes in a day or two. Rent a bike to ride through rice paddies to An Bang beach, and try the local specialty, cao lau noodles.

Days 8–10 — Ho Chi Minh City

Fly south to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Visit the War Remnants Museum, the French-era Central Post Office, and Ben Thanh Market. Take a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, and if you have time, a day in the Mekong Delta with its floating markets and canals.

Getting around

Domestic flights between Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City are short and usually inexpensive — far faster than the train for a ten-day trip. In cities, ride-hailing apps like Grab are the easiest way to get around and show the price up front. Crossing the street takes nerve: walk at a slow, steady pace and let the motorbikes flow around you.

Best time to visit

Vietnam's weather varies by region, so there's no single perfect month. March–April and September–November are good compromises for a north-to-south trip. Central Vietnam, including Hoi An, gets heavy rain and storms in October–November, so check the forecast if you're traveling then.

Before you go

Check the current visa rules for your passport well before the trip — many visitors need an e-visa, applied for online in advance. Make sure your passport has at least six months of validity.

A realistic budget

Vietnam is excellent value. Plan around $50–100 per person per day for comfortable mid-range hotels, great food and local transport, plus the cost of a Ha Long Bay cruise and domestic flights, which are the biggest single expenses.

Pack for Vietnam

• Light, breathable clothing — it's hot and humid in most places most of the year
• A rain jacket — downpours arrive fast
• A plug adapter — sockets vary, with Type A and C most common
• A local eSIM — for Grab, maps and translation from the moment you land

Make this itinerary yours

Want to add Sapa's rice terraces, swap the city time for beaches, or slow down to two weeks? TravelBeast builds a Vietnam itinerary around your dates and interests, and lets you change any leg by chat or voice.

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