10 Day Tour in Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi

Traveling through Vietnam in 10 days offers a whirlwind of unforgettable sights, flavors, and cultural encounters. This tour, organized by Up Travel Vietnam, promises a comprehensive journey from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the sophisticated charm of Hanoi, with stops that highlight the country’s natural beauty, history, and vibrant local life.

What makes this trip appealing? We love the mix of activities—from exploring the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, drifting along the Mekong Delta, to marveling at Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts. The seamless transitions between city buzz, rural tranquility, and scenic landscapes are a highlight. Plus, the inclusion of experienced guides and comfortable transportation makes it easier to relax and soak it all in.

However, it’s worth noting that the itinerary, while packed, involves some long travel days, especially between the south and north. For travelers who prefer a more leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed at times. Still, if you’re eager to maximize your time and see Vietnam’s highlights, this tour packs a lot into its 10 days. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors who want a structured but authentic experience with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Good To Know

• Balanced itinerary: Combines cultural, historical, and natural highlights.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable local guides enhance the experience.
• Comfortable logistics: Air-conditioned vehicles and included transfers make travel smooth.
• Diverse activities: From tunnels and temples to boat trips and scenic cruises.
• Value for money: At $720, it covers numerous major sites with included entrance fees and meals.
• Ideal for first-timers: Perfect for those wanting a broad overview of Vietnam.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City

Upon landing, your driver will greet you at the airport and whisk you to your hotel, where your room will be ready from 2:00 PM. This first day is geared toward settling in and adjusting to the vibrant atmosphere of Vietnam’s largest city. Though it’s a short start, the city’s energy hints at the adventures ahead. You’ll get an initial taste of Ho Chi Minh’s lively street scenes, bustling markets, and colonial architecture.

Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta

The morning kicks off with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, about an hour and a half from the city. These tunnels are a former Viet Cong stronghold and offer a fascinating glimpse into wartime ingenuity. The guided tour includes exploring the remaining tunnel systems and living areas, which are surprisingly well-preserved, giving a tangible sense of underground life during conflict.

In the afternoon, you head to My Tho for a boat trip along the Tien River. As you cruise past islands like Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise, you’ll see local life unfold—floating markets, fish farms, and lush scenery. Reviewers highlight how the boat trip showcases Vietnam’s rural charm and provides a peaceful contrast to the city’s hustle.

Day 3: Fly to Da Nang and transfer to Hoi An

After breakfast, you’ll have some free time in Ho Chi Minh City, which is appreciated by travelers for wandering local markets or relaxing at cafes. Later, you’re transferred to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your flight to Da Nang. The domestic flight is a convenient way to cover Vietnam’s long distances efficiently, saving time for sightseeing.

Day 4: From Da Nang to Hoi An

Your day begins with a visit to the Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the impressive 70-meter-high Lady Buddha statue. This spot offers stunning views over Da Nang’s coast and a chance to appreciate Vietnamese Buddhist architecture.

Next, you move to Hoi An Ancient Town, famous for its lantern-lit streets and well-preserved buildings. The visit includes exploring the Marble Mountains and the Non Noc Stone Carving Village, where artisans craft exquisite sculptures. Reviewer insights mention how guides bring these sites alive, sharing stories behind the craft and history.

Day 5: Ba Na Hills and The Golden Bridge

A highlight for many travelers, the trip to Ba Na Hills involves a scenic cable car ride up to the mountain resort. The Golden Bridge, held up by giant stone hands, is often described as surreal and photogenic. The park also features French-style gardens, amusement zones, and panoramic views. Expect a full day of fun, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing moments.

Day 6: Flight to Hanoi and Free Time

Enjoy your morning in Da Nang before flying to Hanoi. This quick transition allows you to explore a bit on your own or relax before starting the next phase of your adventure. The transfer from Hanoi Airport to your hotel makes settling in straightforward, and reviewers mention appreciating the organized logistics.

Day 7: Ninh Binh and Trang An

Traveling about 120 km south of Hanoi, your day begins early with a visit to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital. The guide explains the significance of the site, helping you imagine the area’s historical importance.

Later, a boat trip through the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO site, takes you through caves and karst formations. Reviewers rave about the scenery, describing it as a stunning landscape that feels like a natural sculpture garden. The boat trip offers a peaceful, immersive experience into Vietnam’s natural beauty.

Day 8 & 9: Ha Long Bay Cruise

The journey to Ha Long Bay is about 2.5 hours by shuttle bus. Upon arrival, you’ll board a luxury cruise that takes you through the bay’s iconic limestone formations. The cruise includes onboard meals and activities, with reviews praising the well-organized, comfortable experience.

On Day 9, you’ll enjoy a morning view of the bay, with options to visit spots like Frog Pond and other limestone islets. The scenery is described as dramatic and perfect for photography. The 7-hour cruise allows ample time to relax, kayak, or just soak in the stunning vistas.

Day 10: Return and Free Time

Your trip concludes with a relaxed morning in Hanoi until it’s time to transfer to Noi Bai International Airport. You’re free to enjoy some last-minute sightseeing or shopping before heading home.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

With a price of $720 per person, this tour covers a broad spectrum of Vietnam’s highlights — from bustling cities and historic sites to breathtaking landscapes. Included meals, entrance fees, and transportation mean you won’t be hit with hidden costs, and the guides’ local knowledge elevates every experience. Reviewers consistently mention the guides’ friendliness and expertise, making even complex sites like Cu Chi Tunnels or Marble Mountains engaging and educational.

The Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, which is vital given Vietnam’s tropical climate. With a maximum of 20 travelers, the group feels intimate enough for personal interactions while still offering a social atmosphere. The included airport transfers and domestic flights simplify logistics, ensuring a smooth journey from start to finish.

Authentic Experiences & Highlights

Travelers shared that guides, such as those on the Cu Chi Tunnels tour, are “friendly” and “know their stuff,” which makes a big difference in understanding Vietnam’s history. The boat trips and scenic drives are praised for their views, with one reviewer calling Ha Long Bay “absolutely breathtaking.” The mix of guided visits and free time allows for flexibility—whether you want to soak up the atmosphere or explore independently.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Vietnam in a manageable timeframe. The mix of cultural, historical, and natural sites appeals to travelers seeking variety without feeling overwhelmed. It’s also perfect for those who value expert guides, comfy transportation, and good value.

However, if you prefer a slow pace or have specific interests (like deep diving into Vietnam’s cuisine or staying longer at individual sites), this itinerary might feel a bit busy. The long travel days between regions could be tiring for some, especially if you’re not accustomed to quick transitions.

Final Thoughts

This 10-day tour packs a lot of Vietnam into a well-structured itinerary that balances guided activities with free time. It offers an authentic taste of the country’s diverse landscapes, history, and culture, all supported by knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport. For travelers eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves, this trip offers outstanding value and memorable experiences.

If your goal is to tick the major sites off your bucket list while enjoying local insights and scenic views, this tour is a solid choice. It combines convenience, variety, and a friendly, expert touch that will leave you with stories to tell for years.

FAQs

Is transportation included throughout the tour?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned vehicles for all transfers, including airport pickups, day trips, and intercity flights.

How long are the travel days?
Travel days include approximately 1.5 hours to Cu Chi Tunnels, a boat trip in the Mekong Delta, domestic flights from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang, and about 2.5 hours from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay.

Are entrance fees included?
Most entrance fees are included, such as at Cu Chi Tunnels, Marble Mountains, Linh Ung Pagoda, and Trang An. The cruise and certain sites may not charge additional.

What meals are included?
Breakfasts are provided on most mornings, with five lunches and two dinners included. Meals on the tour are a good way to sample local flavors, often mentioned as a highlight.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, with a group size capped at 20, solo travelers will find it easy to connect and enjoy the experience comfortably.

Are early or late arrivals accommodated?
The tour starts with airport pickups in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, but specific arrangements for early arrivals should be discussed with the provider.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour is structured, some flexibility for free time and optional activities exists, but major changes would require contacting the provider.

What is the overall pace of the tour?
It’s fairly full-on, with multiple sites each day and some long travel distances. It suits travelers who enjoy a packed schedule and diverse experiences.

How do reviews rate the overall experience?
The tour boasts a perfect 5.0 rating based on four reviews, with travelers praising the guides, scenery, and well-organized logistics.