10-Day Vietnam Nature Itinerary

1. Day 1: Hanoi Old Quarter
   30 minutes (13 km) from Noi Bai International Airport

   Explore the narrow streets of the Old Quarter and visit ancient temples, bustling markets, and colonial-era buildings.

2. Day 2: Ha Long Bay
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   2 hours 15 minutes (166 km) from Hanoi Old Quarter

   Cruise along the emerald waters of this stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

3. Day 3: Sapa Mountains
   5 hours 30 minutes (355 km) from Ha Long Bay

   Hike through the picturesque rice terraces and green valleys of the Hoang Lien Son mountains, home to many ethnic minority communities.

4. Day 4-5: Phong Nha National Park
   12 hours (686 km) from Sapa Mountains

   Explore the massive, ancient caves, trek through dense forests, and swim in stunning waterfalls of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

5. Day 6: Hue Citadel
   4 hours 30 minutes (231 km) from Phong Nha National Park

   Visit the former royal palace and citadel of the Nguyen Dynasty, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn about Vietnam's imperial past.

6. Day 7: Hoi An Ancient Town
   2 hours (108 km) from Hue Citadel

   Stroll the narrow, winding streets of this charming riverside town with centuries-old temples, traditional houses, and colorful lanterns.

7. Day 8: My Son Sanctuary
   1 hour (45 km) from Hoi An Ancient Town

   Explore the magnificent ruins of the ancient Champa Kingdom's temples and learn about its unique culture and architecture.

8. Day 9-10: Dalat Highlands
   9 hours (409 km) from My Son Sanctuary

   Explore the lush pine forests and rolling hills of this high-altitude town, known for its impressive waterfalls, flower gardens, and French colonial architecture.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Hanoi Old Quarter (2-3 hours, free)
• Ha Long Bay Cruise (4-6 hours, $20-$50)
• Sapa Mountains Trek (1-3 days, $40-$150)
• Phong Nha National Park (2-3 days, $30-$100)
• Hue Citadel (2-3 hours, $6)
• Hoi An Ancient Town (2-4 hours, $10-$20)
• My Son Sanctuary (2-3 hours, $6)
• Dalat Highlands Exploration (2-3 days, $50-$150)
• Total Estimated Costs ($152-$534)

Useful Tips

For those with more time, consider visiting: Ninh Binh's natural beauty, Da Nang's beaches and Marble Mountains or the Mekong Delta for more nature-centric experiences.

For those with less time, consider skipping Sapa Mountains or Phong Nha National Park and adding a day to Ha Long Bay, Hoi An or Hue Citadel.