10-Day Ultimate Vietnam Travel Itinerary: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City Adventures

Day 1: Arrival & Hanoi Exploration

Hanoi, Vietnam on June 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pho Bat Dan

Start your day with a traditional bowl of Pho, Hanoi’s famous noodle soup, blended with rich bones broth and fresh herbs. A local favorite, Pho Bat Dan opens early to welcome visitors.
VND50000, 1h

9:30am

Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Explore this scenic lake located in the heart of Hanoi, visit the charming Ngoc Son Temple on the lake’s small island, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of locals practicing tai chi.
VND30000, 1h30m

11:00am

Temple of Literature

Visit Vietnam’s first national university, a beautiful historic site dedicated to Confucius, and admire its tranquil gardens and ancient architecture.
VND30000, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Cha Ca La Vong

Try a famous Hanoi dish featuring grilled turmeric and dill fish served with noodles, herbs, and peanuts in a lively local eatery open until late afternoon.
VND120000, 1h

2:00pm

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Learn about the diverse ethnic groups of Vietnam through impressive artifacts, traditional houses, and multimedia exhibits. Open 8:30am-5:30pm.
VND40000, 2h

5:00pm

Explore Old Quarter and Coffee at Cafe Giang

Wander the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and enjoy the famous egg coffee, a creamy signature drink of Hanoi, at the historic Cafe Giang.
VND45000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Bun Cha Ta

Savor Bun Cha, grilled pork served with noodles and herbs, at one of Hanoi’s best-known restaurants open until 10pm.
VND90000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Hanoi to Halong Bay

Hanoi to Halong Bay, Vietnam on June 21, 2025

7:00am

Depart Hanoi to Halong Bay

Leave early by private car or shuttle for a scenic 3.5-hour drive to Halong Bay, famed for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands.
USD30, 3h30m

11:00am

Board Halong Bay Cruise

Check in for a 2-day, 1-night boat cruise exploring Halong Bay’s stunning karst landscapes, caves, and floating villages. Cruises usually include lunch on board.
USD150, Start journey

12:00pm

Lunch on Cruise

Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch featuring local flavors over panoramic bay views.
Included in cruise, 1h

1:00pm

Kayaking & Cave Visit

Participate in kayaking around smooth limestone cliffs or visit Sung Sot (Surprise) cave with massive chambers, accessible by boat.
Included in cruise, 2h

4:00pm

Relax on Boat Deck

Relax on the deck and watch the sunset over the bay’s tranquil waters.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner on Boat

Savor a freshly prepared dinner featuring Vietnamese seafood dishes under the stars.
Included in cruise, 1h30m
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Day 3: Halong Bay to Hanoi & Flight to Hoi An

Halong Bay to Hanoi to Da Nang, Vietnam on June 22, 2025

7:00am

Early Morning Tai Chi and Breakfast on Cruise

Join morning Tai Chi on deck to embrace the calm bay environment followed by breakfast.
Included in cruise, 1h

8:00am

Visit Floating Village

Explore a traditional floating fishing village by small boat or kayak.
Included in cruise, 1h

9:30am

Return to Halong Port and Transfer to Hanoi

Disembark cruise and take a private car back to Hanoi, arriving around 1pm.
Included in cruise, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at KOTO Restaurant Hanoi

Enjoy a flavorful lunch supporting local youth training in hospitality, offering authentic Vietnamese dishes.
VND150000, 1h

3:30pm

Flight Hanoi to Da Nang

Fly from Hanoi to Da Nang (about 1.5 hours), the closest airport to Hoi An. Recommended airlines: VietJet or Vietnam Airlines.
USD50-70, 1h30m

5:30pm

Transfer to Hoi An

Private car or shuttle transfers (approx 45 minutes) to your hotel in Hoi An Ancient Town.
USD15, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Morning Glory

Dine on iconic Hoi An specialties such as cao lau noodles and white rose dumplings at this popular, atmospheric restaurant.
VND150000, 1h30m
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Day 4: Hoi An Historic Town & Countryside

Hoi An, Vietnam on June 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Cargo Club

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with local and western dishes in a beautiful riverside setting, open from 7am.
VND120000, 1h

9:00am

Walking Tour of Hoi An Ancient Town

Explore UNESCO-listed streets full of lantern-lit alleys, historic houses, Japanese Covered Bridge, and vibrant markets. Town opens early and stays lively until late.
VND120000 entry ticket, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Bale Well

Taste local grilled pork, spring rolls, and fresh herbs served at this famous hole-in-the-wall eatery.
VND80000, 1h

1:30pm

Cycling To Tra Que Vegetable Village

Ride a bicycle 3km to this charming organic farm village to learn about traditional farming and sample herbal teas. Village tours run until late afternoon.
VND60000, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at An Bang Beach

Unwind at this sandy beach just 4km from town with beachside cafes and swimming opportunities. Open all day.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mango Mango

Enjoy creative Vietnamese cuisine with fusion twists and river views in the atmospheric heart of Hoi An.
VND200000, 1h30m
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Day 5: Hoi An to Hue

Hoi An to Hue, Vietnam on June 24, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start with a simple hotel breakfast before travel to Hue.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive from Hoi An to Hue via Hai Van Pass

Take the scenic 3-hour drive along the Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam’s most stunning coastal routes.
USD20 for driver, 3h

11:30am

Lunch at Hanh Restaurant

Enjoy royal Hue cuisine known for elaborate dishes such as bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup).
VND150000, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Imperial City (The Citadel)

Explore Hue’s vast historic citadel and palaces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site open until 5pm.
VND150000, 2h

3:30pm

Thien Mu Pagoda

Visit this serene 7-story pagoda overlooking the Perfume River, a symbol of the city and open until 5pm.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Ancient Hue Restaurant

Dine on traditional dishes like nem lui and royal banquets recreated in an elegant setting.
VND180000, 1h30m
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Day 6: Hue to Ho Chi Minh City

Hue to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on June 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation before the flight.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Flight Hue to Ho Chi Minh City

Fly from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City (about 1.5 hours).
USD50-80, 1h30m

11:00am

Check-in and Rest at Hotel

Settle into your hotel in District 1 and freshen up.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Pho Hoa Pasteur

Try the famed southern style Pho with rich broth and fresh herbs at this iconic restaurant open until 9pm.
VND60000, 1h

2:00pm

War Remnants Museum

Visit this impactful museum displaying exhibits on the Vietnam War and its effects. Open 7:30am-6pm.
VND40000, 2h

4:30pm

Walk along Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Enjoy the lively pedestrian street with fountains, shops, and cafes, perfect for people watching and relaxation.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cuc Gach Quan

Sample authentic southern Vietnamese cuisine in a beautifully decorated traditional house.
VND220000, 1h30m
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Day 7: Cu Chi Tunnels & City Tour

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on June 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at L’Usine

Enjoy a French-inspired breakfast in one of Ho Chi Minh’s chic cafes.
VND150000, 1h

8:00am

Half-day Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

Discover the underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War to understand local history and resilience. Tour departs early and returns by early afternoon.
USD20, 5h

1:30pm

Lunch at Banh Xeo 46A

Savor sizzling southern Vietnamese crepes filled with pork, shrimp, and herbs at this beloved spot.
VND80000, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and Central Post Office

Admire the French colonial architecture in the vibrant downtown area. Both landmarks open until 5pm.
Free, 1h

4:30pm

Visit Ben Thanh Market

Explore this bustling market for souvenirs, handicrafts, and street food. Open until 7pm.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Secret Garden Rooftop

Enjoy traditional Vietnamese dishes with a lovely rooftop view of Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline.
VND250000, 1h30m
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Day 8: Mekong Delta Day Trip

Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta, Vietnam on June 27, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Get an early start with hotel breakfast before the day trip.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Full-Day Mekong Delta Tour

Travel to the Mekong Delta region to experience boat rides along the river, visit fruit orchards, traditional villages, and floating markets. Tours usually last all day.
USD50, 9h

5:30pm

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Arrive back at your hotel and refresh.
Included, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Deck Saigon

Dine by the river with elegant dishes including seafood and international cuisine, a peaceful end to a busy day.
VND500000, 1h30m
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Day 9: Free Day & Shopping

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on June 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Workshop Coffee

Enjoy expertly brewed coffee and delicious breakfast dishes in a trendy cafe setting.
VND120000, 1h

9:30am

Saigon Skydeck at Bitexco Tower

Get panoramic views over the city from the 49th floor observation deck, open 9:30am-9:30pm.
VND200000, 1h

11:00am

Shopping at Vincom Center and Saigon Square

Browse luxury malls and bargain markets for fashion, souvenirs, and handicrafts.
Free entry, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at Pizza 4P’s

Try Vietnamese-style Italian pizzas using fresh local ingredients at this popular spot.
VND250000, 1h

4:00pm

Spa and Massage

Relax with a traditional Vietnamese massage at a reputable spa such as Temple Leaf Spa.
USD30, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy a variety of authentic Vietnamese street food dishes all in one elegant setting.
VND200000, 1h30m
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Day 10: Departure Day

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on June 29, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a relaxing final breakfast at your hotel.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Last minute shopping or stroll

Visit nearby markets or parks for last souvenirs or photos before airport transfer.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Check out and Transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport

Arrange hotel transfer to Ho Chi Minh City international airport for departure flights.
USD15, 45m
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