A Classic 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary: From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi, Vietnam
Welcome to Hanoi! Upon your arrival at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your own personal tour guide. They’ll assist you with your transfer to the hotel. Take this time to relax and recover from your journey or venture out to explore the vibrant city at your own pace.
Day 2: Hanoi | Explore the City & Enjoy a Water Puppet Show (B, L)
Today marks the beginning of your exciting journey through Vietnam. We’ll introduce you to the captivating history and culture of the country. Our first stops include the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, and the One Pillar Pagoda.
Next, we’ll immerse you in the daily life of Hanoians with a visit to the bustling Old Quarter. Your taste buds are in for a treat as you savor local cuisine, including Vietnamese sandwiches, egg coffee, rice cakes, and the famous pho!
In the late afternoon, relax and enjoy a traditional water puppet show—a unique and delightful Vietnamese art form.
Day 3: Halong Bay | Overnight Cruise Adventure (B, L, D)
After a refreshing breakfast, we’ll embark on a journey to the stunning Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll find a perfect blend of natural beauty, onboard services, and opportunities for activities like kayaking, swimming, and diving.
While cruising, you’ll likely visit Cua Van Fishing Village, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, Me Cung Caves, Virgin Cave, Surprise Cave, and pass by charming islets like Flight Cock Islet, Human Head Islet, and Toad Islet. Some cruises even offer a cooking class at night and a morning taichi lesson.
Relax and soak in the beauty of Halong Bay as you make unforgettable memories.
Day 4: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Danang – Hoi An (B, L)
Your enchanting cruise comes to a close, and a shuttle transfer will take you back to Hanoi. Reunite with your tour guide and head to the airport for your onward flight to Danang. In just a 40-minute car ride, you’ll arrive in the enchanting town of Hoi An.
Day 5: Hoi An | Stroll through Ancient Town & Discover Pottery Village (B, L)
Today, you’ll dive into the rich culture of Hoi An’s ancient town. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you to iconic sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge, Fujian Assembly Hall, and Old House of Tan Ky.
Following that, you’ll embark on a scenic 40-minute boat ride along the Thu Bon River to a charming pottery village. Here, you’ll explore its charming alleyways, engage with locals, and even create your own handicraft.
Day 6: Hoi An – Danang – Ho Chi Minh City
After breakfast, it’s time to transfer to Danang for your morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Private transfers with your tour guide are included in both cities. Upon arrival, check-in at your leisure and enjoy the city as you wish.
Day 7: Half-Day Tour of Ho Chi Minh City
Despite its modernity, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) exudes nostalgic charm with its colonial-era buildings, quaint street-side cafés, and leafy boulevards. Take a leisurely stroll downtown to discover landmarks such as the General Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the former Presidential Palace.
Next, visit the War Remnants Museum for a vivid perspective on the war through the eyes of the Vietnamese. Please note that this part of history can be emotionally impactful due to its sensitive nature.
Experience Saigon’s famous coffee street culture, and enjoy a brief language lesson from your guide. Gain insights into the daily life of the locals before returning to your hotel.
Day 8: Vinh Long – Can Tho | Explore Vinh Long & Transfer to Can Tho
Embark on a morning drive to Vinh Long in the Mekong Delta. Here, you’ll visit the vibrant Vinh Long Market, where you can witness the abundance of river fish, rice fields, and produce from local farmers.
Hop on a local boat and cruise to a home restaurant on An Binh Island for a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll explore a local pottery kiln, where clay is used for both pottery and bricks.
Experience the narrow waterways of the Delta by rowboat, passing traditional wooden houses with thatched palm roofs. Witness how locals have been farming and fishing for centuries before transferring to Can Tho.
Day 9: Can Tho – Mekong Delta – Ho Chi Minh City | Floating Market & City Tour of Can Tho
Start your day with an early morning motorboat trip to the Cai Rang floating market, where you’ll witness boats laden with local vegetables, fruits, and fish from all over the Delta. Some small boats even offer meals and refreshments.
Return to the shore for a city tour of Can Tho, beginning with a visit to the Can Tho Museum, which showcases the agriculture and river life of the Mekong Delta, as well as the peaceful co-existence of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer ethnic groups.
Next, head to the Binh Thuy Ancient House, originally a place of worship for ancestors.
Day 10: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City
After breakfast, you’ll have some free time to enjoy at your leisure. Your private tour guide will then pick you up and transfer you to the airport. Have a safe and pleasant flight home, and we hope to welcome you back soon!
