Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Welcome to Vietnam! Start your journey in Hanoi, the capital city. It’s a chaotic yet charming place that’s known for its blend of old and new. After checking into your hotel, spend a few hours getting familiar with the bustling Old Quarter. Wander through the narrow streets, grab a bowl of steaming pho, and check out Hoan Kiem Lake. It’s a prime spot to see locals go about their daily lives.
If you’re up for it, explore the Night Market for some street food and souvenirs. Then, get some rest because tomorrow is packed with exploration.
Day 2: Exploring Hanoi
Kick off your day with a visit to the iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. It’s closed on Mondays and Fridays, so plan ahead. Afterwards, head over to the One Pillar Pagoda nearby, which is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Vietnam.
Spend your afternoon in the tranquil Temple of Literature. This was originally built as a university dedicated to Confucius and is a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture.
For dinner, try bun cha, a local specialty of grilled pork served with noodles. End the day by grabbing a drink at a rooftop bar with a view over Hoan Kiem Lake.
Day 3: Halong Bay Cruise
Leave early for your overnight cruise in Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s about a 4-hour drive from Hanoi, but the ride is worth it. The area is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands.
You’ll board a traditional Vietnamese junk boat where you can enjoy fresh seafood, kayaking, swimming, or just relaxing as you sail through the unique landscapes. Most cruises offer a sunset party and a chance to try squid fishing at night.
Spend the night on the boat and enjoy the tranquility of floating under the stars.
Day 4: Return to Hanoi and Train to Sapa
Wake up early for sunrise on the bay. After breakfast, you’ll cruise back to the harbor. Once you’re back in Hanoi, take it easy; grab some last-minute snacks or explore any parts of town you missed on Day 2.
In the evening, catch the overnight train to Sapa in the northern mountains. This sleeper train is comfortable and offers a unique experience to see Vietnam from a different perspective.
Day 5: Arrival in Sapa and Trekking to Local Villages
Arrive in Sapa in the early morning. It’s a small mountain town known for its stunning rice terraces and ethnic minority villages. Drop your bags at your accommodation before heading out on a guided trek to the local villages.
Visit villages like Cat Cat or Ta Van to see the traditions and daily life of the Hmong people. You’ll trek alongside beautiful rice terraces and might even catch a glimpse of the towering Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Vietnam.
Relax in the evening over dinner with a view of the misty mountains.
Day 6: More Exploration in Sapa
Today, continue your trek or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a cable car ride up to the top of Mount Fansipan. On a clear day, the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains are incredible.
After the trek or cable car, head back to Sapa town for some relaxation. Grab a coffee and a bánh mì sandwich at one of the many local cafes. In the evening, you can opt for a foot massage to unwind after all the hiking.
Sleep another night in Sapa before heading back to Hanoi tomorrow.
Day 7: Return to Hanoi and Fly to Hue
In the morning, take a bus or train back to Hanoi. Then, catch a short flight to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam.
Once you arrive in Hue, check into your hotel and spend the late afternoon by the Perfume River. There’s a peaceful vibe to Hue that contrasts with the energetic streets of Hanoi. End your day at a riverside restaurant and try the local dish, bun bo Hue.
Day 8: Exploring Hue’s Imperial City
Spend the day exploring Hue’s historical sites. Start with the Imperial City, a walled palace complex that once housed the emperors of Vietnam. You can easily spend a few hours walking through the ruins and learning about Vietnamese royal history.
In the afternoon, visit some of the emperor’s tombs, especially the Tomb of Khai Dinh. It’s incredibly ornate and offers a mix of traditional Vietnamese and modern European elements.
If you’re still up for more, hop on a bike and cycle around Hue’s countryside for a glimpse of rural life.
Day 9: Travel to Hoi An
Take a morning car ride or bus journey along the scenic Hai Van Pass to Hoi An. Along the way, you’ll pass by some breathtaking coastal views. You can even make a quick stop in Da Nang to check out the Marble Mountains or take pictures at the famous Golden Bridge.
In the afternoon, arrive in Hoi An, a charming ancient town known for its lantern-lit evenings and beautifully preserved buildings. Take a leisurely stroll around the old town and enjoy Hoi An’s laid-back vibe. For dinner, try cao lau, a local noodle dish that traces its roots back centuries.
Day 10: Relax in Hoi An
Your last day is all about slowing down and reflecting on your trip. Start with an early morning walk around Hoi An Old Town while it’s still quiet. Don’t forget to visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and some of the town’s historic assembly halls.
In the afternoon, head to An Bang Beach, just a quick bike or taxi ride away. Kick back on the sand or swim in the warm South China Sea. If you’re interested in shopping, Hoi An is known for its custom tailoring, so you can always have a suit or dress made before heading home.
End your trip with a night stroll along Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, capping off ten days of incredible experiences with a relaxing evening.
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