Vietnam's Best Itineraries for First-Time Visitors (7, 10, 14 Days)

Vietnam, a country of captivating contrasts, offers an unforgettable journey for first-time visitors. From the mist-shrouded mountains of the North to the vibrant Mekong Delta in the South, its diverse landscapes, rich history, and tantalizing cuisine promise an experience unlike any other. Planning your first time Vietnam travel can feel overwhelming, but with these tiered Vietnam itinerary first time suggestions, you can craft a perfect trip, whether you have a week, 10 days, or two weeks to explore.

This guide provides Vietnam travel route suggestions designed for a balanced first-time trip, ensuring you hit the must-see destinations and get a taste of the country's incredible diversity. Remember to factor in travel time between destinations when using these first time visitor Vietnam planning tips.

North to South or South to North?

"Where should I visit first for my Vietnam trip: Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City?" - This is the most common question of travelers.

For first-timers, traveling from North to South (Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City) or vice-versa is the most popular and efficient approach. Starting in Hanoi often feels like a gentle introduction to Vietnamese culture, while ending in the bustling Ho Chi Minh City provides a lively conclusion. The itineraries below assume a North-to-South progression.

1. The 7-Day Express: A Taste of Vietnam's Highlights (Best Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days)

This itinerary focuses on the absolute essentials, perfect for those with limited time but a desire to experience Vietnam's iconic landmarks. It involves a fast pace and likely domestic flights to maximize sightseeing.

• Day 1-2: Ha Noi - The Ancient Capital

  • Arrival: Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Ha Noi. Transfer to your accommodation in the Old Quarter.

  • Hanoi Exploration: Immerse yourself in the charming chaos of the Old Quarter. Visit Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and perhaps catch a traditional Water Puppet Show. Explore the French Quarter's colonial architecture.

  • Food: Indulge in Ha Noi's renowned street food – Pho, Bun Cha, and Egg Coffee are a must!

  • Must-See: Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Quarter, Temple of Literature.

• Day 3-4: Ha Long Bay - Limestone Karst Wonders

  • Cruise: Take a bus from Ha Noi to Ha Long Bay (approx. 2.5-3 hours). Embark on an overnight cruise to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site's iconic limestone karsts, emerald waters, and hidden caves. Enjoy kayaking, swimming, and fresh seafood.

  • Must-See: Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island (for panoramic views), kayaking in the bay.

• Day 5: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City - The Southern Metropolis

  • Travel: Return to Hanoi, then take a domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) (approx. 2 hours flight).

  • City Buzz: Check into your hotel in District 1. Spend the evening exploring Nguyen Hue Walking Street and Bui Vien Walking Street for a taste of the city's vibrant nightlife.

• Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City - History & Culture

  • Historical Sites: Visit the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Central Post Office.

  • Underground Network: Take a half-day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about Vietnam War history.

  • Food: Explore the city's diverse culinary scene, from street food stalls to rooftop bars.

• Day 7: Departure

  • Enjoy a final Vietnamese coffee or souvenir shopping before heading to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) for your departure.

A traditional Vietnamese junk boat cruises through the iconic limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, a must-see for any Vietnam itinerary. Source: Internet

2. The 10-Day Classic: A Balanced Journey (Vietnam 10 Day Itinerary)

This Vietnam 10 day itinerary allows for a more relaxed pace and includes a key central Vietnam highlight, offering a deeper dive into the country's diverse regions.

• Day 1-2: Ha Noi - Capital Culture (Same as 7-day itinerary)

• Day 3-4: Ha Long Bay - Overnight Serenity (Same as 7-day itinerary, ensuring an overnight cruise for a fuller experience)

• Day 5: Ninh Binh - "Ha Long Bay on Land"

  • Travel: From Ha Long Bay, travel to Ninh Binh (can be done via bus/private transfer, approx. 3-4 hours).

  • Natural Beauty: Explore the stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and serene waterways. Take a scenic sampan boat ride through Tam Coc or Trang An. Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital or climb Mua Cave for panoramic views.

  • Must-See: Tam Coc/Trang An boat ride, Mua Cave, Bich Dong Pagoda.

• Day 6: Fly to Da Nang & Transfer to Hoi An - Central Charm

  • Travel: Take a domestic flight from Ha Noi to Da Nang (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes). Transfer directly to Hoi An (approx. 45 min drive).

  • Ancient Town: Settle into Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the evening, witness the magical lantern-lit streets of the Ancient Town.

• Day 7: Hoi An - Lanterns & Culture

  • Explore: Wander through the charming streets, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, ancient houses, and assembly halls. Consider a cooking class or a bicycle ride through the rice paddies.

  • Tailoring: Hoi An is famous for its bespoke tailoring – perfect for getting custom-made clothes.

• Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City - Southern Energy

  • Travel: Fly from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes).

  • City Exploration: Begin exploring the city's highlights: Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum. Enjoy a delicious local dinner.

• Day 9: Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta

  • Day Trip: Combine a morning visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels with an afternoon tour to the Mekong Delta. Experience rural life, take a sampan ride, visit local workshops, and try fresh fruit.

• Day 10: Departure

  • Enjoy a final meal or last-minute souvenir shopping before heading to the airport.

Boat glide through the serene waterways of Tam Coc in Ninh Binh, surrounded by towering limestone karsts and lush rice paddies. Source: Internet

3. The 14-Day Comprehensive: Full Immersion (Vietnam 2 Week Itinerary)

This Vietnam 2 week itinerary offers a thorough exploration of Vietnam's highlights, providing more time to delve deeper into each destination and include a few extra cultural experiences. This is the ideal North to South Vietnam trip for a rich first-time visit.

• Day 1-2: Ha Noi - Ancient Capital & More (Same as 10-day itinerary, allowing more time for specific interests like museums or a street food tour.)

• Day 3-4: Ha Long Bay / Lan Ha Bay - Overnight Cruise (Same as 10-day itinerary. Consider Lan Ha Bay for a slightly less crowded experience).

• Day 5: Ninh Binh - "Ha Long Bay on Land" (Same as 10-day itinerary).

• Day 6: Hue - Imperial Grandeur

  • Travel: From Ninh Binh, take an overnight train or domestic flight to Hue (approx. 1 hour flight + transfers).

  • Imperial City: Explore the Imperial City (Citadel) with its Forbidden Purple City, elaborate gates, and royal temples.

  • Must-See: Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, Royal Tombs (e.g., Khai Dinh Tomb).

• Day 7: Hue - River & Tombs

  • River Cruise: Take a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, visiting various pagodas and one or two royal tombs.

  • Food: Sample Hue's distinctive imperial cuisine.

• Day 8-9: Hoi An - Enchanting Ancient Town

  • Travel: Scenic transfer from Hue to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass (consider a private car for stops at Lang Co Beach and Marble Mountains).

  • Hoi An Exploration: Two full days to soak in Hoi An's charm, including the Japanese Covered Bridge, ancient merchant houses, a cooking class, or a boat trip along the Thu Bon River. Enjoy evening lanterns and local markets.

  • Relax: Time for beach relaxation at An Bang Beach.

• Day 10: Fly to Da Lat - The City of Eternal Spring

  • Travel: Fly from Da Nang (near Hoi An) to Da Lat (approx. 1 hour flight).

  • Highlands Charm: Experience the cooler climate and unique atmosphere of this former French colonial hill station. Visit the quirky Crazy House, Xuan Huong Lake, and Linh Phuoc Pagoda.

  • Must-See: Crazy House, Xuan Huong Lake, Da Lat Market.

• Day 11: Da Lat - Nature & Adventure

  • Outdoors: Explore waterfalls (e.g., Datanla Waterfall), flower gardens, or go canyoning/zip-lining for the adventurous.

• Day 12-14: Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta - Southern Finale

  • Travel: Fly from Da Lat to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) (approx. 45 min flight).

  • City Exploration: Dedicate a full day to Ho Chi Minh City's major landmarks and museums (War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame, Central Post Office, Ben Thanh Market).

  • Mekong Delta: Take a full-day tour to the Mekong Delta, exploring its floating markets (e.g., Cai Rang), fruit orchards, and traditional villages.

  • Departure: Depart from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN).

The iconic Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An, illuminated by colorful lanterns in the evening, a highlight of central Vietnam. Source: Internet

General Travel Tips for First-Timers

• Book Domestic Flights: For longer distances, domestic flights are the most efficient way to travel between regions.

• Overnight Trains/Buses: Consider overnight trains or buses for a more local experience and to save on accommodation costs (e.g., Ha Noi to Hue/Da Nang).

• Grab App: Download the Grab app (for motorbike taxis and cars) for convenient and affordable transport in cities.

• Local SIM Card: Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for easy navigation and communication.

• Cash: Have small denominations of Vietnamese Dong for street food, markets, and smaller purchases.

• Embrace the Food: Vietnamese cuisine is a highlight! Don't be afraid to try street food – it's often the best.

• Dress Respectfully: Especially when visiting temples and pagodas, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).

• Hydrate: Drink plenty of bottled water, especially in the heat.

These itineraries offer a solid framework for your Vietnam classic route. Feel free to customize them based on your interests, pace, and budget or check out more interesting Vietnam travel itineraries in our other articles. Whichever path you choose, your first trip to Vietnam is bound to be an extraordinary adventure!

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