• How Many Days in Vietnam? Perfect Itinerary Ideas

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From the French colonial charm of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene beauty of Phu Quoc's beaches, Vietnam packs an unbelievable amount of diversity into its borders. Whether you have a week or a month, we’ll help you craft the perfect Vietnam travel itinerary so you won’t miss a thing. No matter the duration, how many days in Vietnam you spend can be tailored to match your preferences, whether you're after culture, adventure, or relaxation.

1. Recommended Trip Lengths & Sample Itineraries

Vietnam itinerary ideas.

7 Days in Vietnam: Dive Deep into One Region

For a week long stay, we would recommend focusing on just one region in Vietnam. The North Vietnam itinerary will allow tourists to spend their time with a combination of exploration of cities, nature, and culture:  Hanoi, Sapa, and Ha Long Bay.

Daily Breakdown:

  • Day 1-2:  Arrival in Hanoi, briefly see the heart of the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature.
  • Day 3-4:Hike in Sapa and be surrounded by outstanding terraced rice fields; visit ethnic villages around the vicinity.
  • Day 5-6: Cruise through the majestic limestone pillars of Ha Long Bay; kayak around hidden caves.
  • Day 7:Return to Hanoi and make the last exploration of this cultural city.

Accommodation Suggestions: Boutique hotel in Hanoi, homestay in Sapa, and overnight cruises in Ha Long Bay.

Transportation Tips: Travel to and from these places by sleeper bus, private car, and luxury train services such as Victoria Express to Sapa.

Optional Activities: If you have more time, the picturesque Ba Vi National Park is another two hours from Hanoi.

10 Days in Vietnam: Combine Two Regions for a Balanced Experience

Since they have 10 days on their hands, the tour combines North and Central Vietnam: a great combination to show participants the diversity in landscape and history of the country. This  Vietnam itinerary perfectly suits travelers who want to see a little bit of it all.

Daily Breakdown:

  • Day 1-2:Hanoi Explore the energetic streets of Hanoi and pay a visit to the infamous Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
  • Day 3-4: Go on a cruise in Ha Long Bay, floating villages, and islands.
  • Day 5-6: Fly to Hue, the one time Imperial capital of Vietnam, with its ancient citadels and tombs.
  • Day 7-8: Transfer to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its incredibly well-preserved architecture and very colorful lanterns.
  • Day 9-10:End the trip in Da Nang, taking one day for My Son Sanctuary and just a little time to relax at An Bang Beach.

Accommodation Suggestions: Boutique stays in Hanoi and Hue, riverside villas in Hoi An, and beach resorts in Da Nang.

Transportation Tips: Fly between regions and take taxis, buses, or private cars when traveling shorter distances.

Optional Activities: Take a day trip to the stunning Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, one of UNESCO's newest listed heritage sites famous for its phenomenal caves.

14 Days in Vietnam: A Comprehensive Journey from North to South

Both the southern and northern best can be bundled in two weeks where you explore history, culture, and natural beauty. This Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks will suit visitors seeking depth in highlights exploration.

Daily Breakdown:

  • Days 1-4: Start in Hanoi and take a cruise through the turquoise waters of Ha Long Bay.
  • Days 5-7: Transfer to Hue and spend a whole day in touring around historic Imperial City and well known Perfume River.
  • Days 8-10: Proceed to Hoi An and Da Nang, for a mix of cultural sightseeing combined with beach relaxation.
  • Days 11-14: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, see the French colonial landmark buildings, and take an excursion by boat through the Mekong Delta.

Accommodation Suggestions: Employ the services of luxury hotels in Ho Chi Minh City, beach resorts in Da Nang, and quaint guesthouses in Hoi An.

Transportation Tips: Domestic flights between the main cities are fast and efficient, while for shorter journeys, there is the option of bus or train travel.

Optional Activities: If time allows, take a visit to Mui Ne for its breathtaking sand dunes or take a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

21+ Days in Vietnam: In-Depth Exploration and Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

This  1 month Vietnam itinerary will help travelers who can spend more than three weeks in the country to travel around all the iconic spots and hidden gems. This is a perfect tour for adventurers in an immersion into local culture and farthest regions.

Daily Breakdown:

  • Days 1-5: Hanoi arrival, Sapa, and mountains around  Ha Long Bay Cruise.
  • Days 6-10: Continue to Hue and Hoi An, visiting Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park for some caving adventures.
  • Days 11-15: Relax in Nha Trang a tropical paradise also known for its marine life.
  • Days 16-20: Day trip around Da Nang, Central Highlands road trip, stop at Buon Ma Thuot for coffee plantations.
  • Days 21+: Complete your tour with a final stop in Ho Chi Minh City, taking a side trip to the Mekong Delta and its floating markets.

Accommodation Suggestions: Eco lodges in countryside places, homestays with native families, and luxury resorts in Phu Quoc and Nha Trang.

Transportation Tips: Combine internal flights, trains, and motorbike rentals to create one of the ultimate Vietnam travel routes.

Optional Activities: Cooking classes gain an insider knowledge of local life; guided treks in Mai Chau and exploration of remote islands in the Con Dao Archipelago.

2. Factors Influencing Trip Length

Factors influencing trip length.

Travel Style: Fast-Paced vs. Slow Travel

Are you the kind of traveler who has to see as much as possible and rushes from city to city? Or would you travel slowly, as your mood dictates, and then just stay a little longer? If you are a busy traveler wanting to fit in as much as possible, then this fast paced 10 day itinerary will be perfect for you: covering Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City. On the other hand, you may choose a Vietnam itinerary for 1 month Vietnam itinerary,  your preference would be relaxed vibes: nothing but cozy days along the Mekong Delta or sunbathing along the beaches along Phu Quoc.

Interests: Culture, History, Nature, Food, or Beaches?

What are you most excited about when it comes to Vietnam? If you like history, you may want to spend your main time in Hanoi or Hue studying the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum or the Imperial City. On the other hand, if nature calls to you, then you can focus your Vietnam travel itinerary on beautiful national parks such as Phong Nha Ke Bang or the surreal beautiful Ha Long Bay. For the gastronomes, a wee bit of heaven awaits in street markets in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, while beach bums find themselves right at home in Nha Trang and  Mui Ne.

Budget: Backpacker vs. Luxury Traveler

Your budget might also impact your length of stay in Vietnam. For budget backpackers, Vietnam is very affordable in all aspects: accommodation, food, and transport, so a 1 month Vietnam itinerary is not out of the question on super tight budgets. You really could stretch that with local homestays and night buses. If you're a luxury traveler, though, you might want to take shorter trips with lots of boutique hotels, private cars, and fine dining. Whatever your budget may be, Vietnam has something to offer for every kind of traveler.

Desired Destinations: North, Central, South, or All?

It is a long and varied country, with each region offering up something different. If you're interested in highlands and tribal culture, then head north and grab Sapa. If you want to indulge in charming French colonial towns, then Central Vietnam presents Hoi An and Hue in store up your sleeve. Far south you will find bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City and lush, riverine landscapes of the Mekong Delta. Depending on your time, you can choose to explore one region in depth or combine all three for a more comprehensive trip.

Time of Year: Impact of Weather and Seasonal Events

The weather in Vietnam is different from one region to another. If you plan to go to Sapa northern mountains, it might get quite chilly during winter from November to March, but if you want to relax on the southern beaches of Phu Quoc, then it's perfect during the same period for sunbathing. The wet season from May to October might affect your travel plans to Vietnam if it includes places such as the Mekong Delta or coastal cities like Da Nang and Nha Trang. Always check the forecast so that you can plan the most favorable time to visit Vietnam.

3. Beyond the Itinerary: Essential Planning Tips

Beyond the itinerary.

Visa Requirements

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to visit Vietnam Citizens of many countries can apply online for an e-visa that allows them to stay in Vietnam for up to 30 days. Check the most recent visa requirements before departing.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

As indicated, Vietnam's climate does vary from region to region, but perhaps the best time to visit Vietnam is between November and April when it's cooler and drier. However, for those who want to go to coastal resorts such as Nha Trang or Mui Ne, summer stretches from May into August, affording excellent beach weather.

Packing Essentials

The things you pack vary on the place you are going and what activities you will be doing. If you're planning some trekking in Sapa or the Central Highlands, for example, bring big boots that fit well along with warm layers. For beach spots, including Phu Quoc or Da Nang, you certainly want to bring along your swimwear and sunscreen. And light clothes for hot cities should not be missing, such as Ho Chi Minh City.

Budgeting for Your Vietnam Trip

Daily living in Vietnam has a great difference in travel styles. Budget backpackers survive easily on $30-50 a day whereas the luxury travelers out there would be closer to $150 a day. Ponder over how much you want to spend on housing, food, and transport as you give a thought on how long to spend in Vietnam.

Health & Safety

Make sure your vaccinations are up to date before traveling, but Vietnam generally doesn't pose too big of a health risk. Equally important, buy the best travel insurance you can find, especially if you will motorbike or trek through the countryside. Take notice of the many scams that involve overcharging, especially for taxis and tour services in tourist hot spots.

4. Conclusion

Now, with a much more adequate idea of how many days to spend in Vietnam, it is time to start planning your trip! Be it a short adventure of 7 days or an indulging  1 month Vietnam itinerary this country has something for every kind of traveler. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene waters of Ha Long Bay, this journey will be blessed with moments and memories to be etched forever.