Vietnam is Southeast Asia’s most compelling destination — ancient towns, world-class street food, stunning karst islands, and some of the cheapest luxury travel in the world. This 10-day guide covers north to south.
10-Day Itinerary
Day 1-2: Hanoi Old Quarter Arrive in Hanoi, the 1000-year-old capital. Morning: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and One Pillar Pagoda. Afternoon: Get lost in the Old Quarter’s 36 ancient streets. Evening: Phở at Phở Thìn (Bà Triệu) — the city’s best pho. End with egg coffee at Giang Café, the original.
Day 3-4: Ninh Binh (Trang An Caves) 2 hours south of Hanoi to Ninh Binh — the “Halong Bay on land.” Boat through the Trang An Grottoes, a network of caves by paddling boat. Hike to Mua Cave for panoramic views of rice paddies and karst peaks. Overnight in a homestay.
Day 5-6: Ha Long Bay Cruise 2.5 hours drive from Ninh Binh to Ha Long. Board an overnight junk boat for a 2-day/1-night cruise through thousands of limestone karsts. Kayaking in hidden lagoons, swimming at Titop Island, squid fishing at night. Book via Klook for the best cruise deals.
Day 7: Flight to Da Nang + Hoi An Fly to Da Nang (1.5 hours), transfer 30 min to Hoi An Ancient Town. Spend the afternoon exploring the yellow-walled trading port, Japanese Covered Bridge, and tailor shops.
Day 8-9: Hoi An Tailoring + Beach Hoi An is famous for custom tailoring — get a suit or dress made in 24 hours (Madame Nhu is legendary). Afternoon: An Bang Beach, one of Asia’s best beach towns. Rent a bike and explore the rice paddies.
**Day 10: Da Nang + Departure Morning: Marble Mountains climb. Afternoon: Transfer to Da Nang airport for departure.
Hanoi Street Food Map
| Dish | Where | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Phở Bò | Phở Thìn, Bà Triệu | $3-4 |
| Bún Chả | Bún Chả Hương Liên | $4-5 |
| Bánh Mì | Bánh Mì Phượng | $2-3 |
| Egg Coffee | Giang Café | $2 |
Vietnam eSIM
Excellent 4G coverage across Vietnam. Airalo Vietnam eSIM 5GB $8 is the best value. Saily also available.
Budget
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Flights (domestic Vietnam) | $80-150 |
| Ha Long Bay cruise | $150-300 |
| Hotels (9 nights) | $200-800 |
| Tailoring (1 outfit) | $50-150 |
| Food | $100-200 |
| Transport | $50-100 |
| Total | $650-1700/person |
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