How Long is a Tour in Vietnam? 20, 14, 12 or 10 Days?

How many days in Vietnam do you need? The answer varies based on your interests, budget, and travel style. A well-planned itinerary can cover major highlights in 10 to 14 days. However, for a deeper exploration, consider extending your stay to 20 days or more. Let’s dive in and discover the ideal duration for your Vietnamese adventure.

Here is what you can expect in this travel blog:

• What Is the Ideal Duration for a Vietnam Tour?
• Itinerary 1: In-depth Vietnam Exploration 20 Days
• Itinerary 2: Vietnam Highlights 14 Days For First-Time Travelers
• Itinerary 3: A Glimpse of Vietnam 12 Days 
• Itinerary 4: Essence of Vietnam 10 Days 
• When is the ideal time to visit Vietnam?
  • Vietnam weather’s overview
  • Peak & low season

What Is the Ideal Duration for a Vietnam Tour?

First-time visitors often ask, “How long is a tour in Vietnam?” A 14-day journey typically offers the best balance. This timeframe allows you to experience Vietnam’s diversity without feeling rushed. You’ll have time to explore bustling cities, cruise Halong Bay, wander ancient towns, and unwind on pristine beaches.

If you’re short on time, a 10-day trip can provide a taste of Vietnam’s essence. Focus on key destinations like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, and Halong Bay. While this itinerary may feel fast-paced, it offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s cultural tapestry.

For those more flexible, a 20-day in-depth exploration unveils Vietnam’s hidden gems. This extended duration allows for off-the-beaten-path adventures, interactions with local communities, and a deeper understanding of the country’s nuances.

Consider these factors when deciding how long for Vietnam:

• Travel pace: Do you prefer leisurely exploration or an action-packed itinerary?
• Destinations: Which regions and cities top your must-visit list?
• Activities: Are you keen on trekking, cooking classes, or historical tours?
• Travel style: Do you enjoy slow travel or prefer to cover more ground?
• Budget: Longer stays require more resources but often offer better value.

We offer customized tours to Vietnam, tailored to match your specific travel preferences and desired duration. Whether you’re looking for a quick highlights tour or an extended immersion into Vietnamese culture, simply contact us here or emai at vietnam@indochinavoyages to get the quote.

Itinerary 1: In-depth Vietnam Exploration 20 Days

20-day tour of Vietnam offers you the most comprehensive experience. This duration is ideal if you want to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture, history, and natural beauty. It’s perfect for retirees or anyone with the luxury of time who wants to explore beyond the typical tourist trail.

You can take a look at our  In depth Vietnam 20 days for detailed activities in each destination and the estimated price starting from USD1,896/person. We also provide rates for accommodations from superior to luxury that you can use as a reference. Below is a brief itinerary:

Phase 1: Northern Vietnam (7 days)

• Day 1: Hanoi arrival

Arrive in Hanoi, where the journey begins in Vietnam’s bustling capital. Enjoy a leisurely evening to recover from your travels or explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, experiencing the vibrant night market and iconic Hoan Kiem Lake.

• Day 2: Hanoi full-day city tour 

Embark on a full-day exploration of Hanoi, visiting iconic sites like the Ho Chi Minh Complex, Temple of Literature, and One Pillar Pagoda. Dive deeper into Hanoi’s charm by wandering through hidden alleys and discovering local markets, temples, and historic streets in the Old Quarter.

• Day 3: Hanoi drive to Pu Luong

Leave Hanoi’s hustle behind for the tranquility of Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Enjoy a scenic drive through lush mountains, terraced rice fields, and local villages. Check into your eco-lodge or homestay, where you can take in breathtaking views and settle in for the night.

• Day 4: Pu Luong mountain & village trek to witness local life

Leave Hanoi’s hustle behind for the tranquility of Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Enjoy a scenic drive through lush mountains, terraced rice fields, and local villages. Check into your eco-lodge or homestay, where you can take in breathtaking views and settle in for the night.

• Day 5: Pu Luong – Ninh Binh

Depart for Ninh Binh, where you’ll be greeted by stunning karst landscapes and calm rivers. Check into your accommodation and relax, preparing for a full day of exploration tomorrow.

• Day 6: Hoa Lu ancient capital – Boat trip in Trang An complex –  Stunning viewpoint from Mua Cave

Explore Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, before heading to Trang An for a serene boat trip through caves and limestone mountains. Later, ascend Mua Cave for panoramic views of the region, a highlight for photography and nature lovers.

• Day 7: Ninh Binh – Halong – Overnight on cruise

Explore Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, before heading to Trang An for a serene boat trip through caves and limestone mountains. Later, ascend Mua Cave for panoramic views of the region, a highlight for photography and nature lovers.

Phase 2: Central Vietnam (4 days)

• Day 8: Hanoi – Halong – Flight to Hue

Start the morning with Tai Chi on the deck, followed by breakfast and a scenic cruise. Return to Hanoi for a flight to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, where you’ll have time to relax before the next day’s adventure.

• Day 9: Hue Imperial city tour & royal dinner

Explore the historic sites of Hue, including the Imperial City, royal tombs, and Thien Mu Pagoda. In the evening, experience a traditional royal dinner, immersing yourself in the city’s culinary heritage and ambiance.

• Day 10: Hue – Drive to Hoi An & Ancient town walking tour

Drive along the scenic Hai Van Pass to Hoi An. Spend the afternoon exploring Hoi An’s ancient town, visiting charming old houses, the Japanese Bridge, and local markets. Enjoy a lantern-lit evening along the river.

• Day 11: My Son Sanctuary – Leisure time 

Visit My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO site showcasing ancient Cham architecture. The afternoon is free for you to unwind at An Bang beach, explore Hoi An’s countryside by bike, or simply relax.

Phase 3: Vietnam Central Highlands (2 days)

• Day 12: Hoi An – Drive to Da Nang – Flight to Da Lat

Depart Hoi An for Da Nang to catch a flight to Da Lat, a city known for its cool climate and romantic landscapes. Settle in and explore the vibrant night market for local delicacies and souvenirs.

• Day 13: Da Lat full-day exploration

Discover Da Lat’s French colonial architecture, flower gardens, and the famous Crazy House. Visit peaceful lakes, waterfalls, and take a scenic cable car ride for panoramic views.

Phase 4: Southern Vietnam (7 days)

• Day 14: Da Lat – Transfer to Nha Trang

Head to Nha Trang, a coastal city with pristine beaches. Spend the afternoon at leisure, relaxing by the beach or exploring local seafood restaurants.

• Day 15: Nha Trang beach break

Enjoy a day of pure relaxation by the beach. Take part in optional activities like snorkeling, island hopping, or visiting Vinpearl amusement park for added excitement.

• Day 16: Nha Trang – Ho Chi Minh City

Take a morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s dynamic southern hub. Spend the day exploring vibrant streets, visiting local markets, or indulging in the city’s diverse food scene.

• Day 17: Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh City Tour

Explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast network used during the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, return to Ho Chi Minh City to visit landmarks like the War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market.

• Day 18: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta insight by the cruise

Travel to the Mekong Delta, where you’ll board a cruise through narrow canals and floating markets. Witness local crafts, taste fresh tropical fruits, and see village life up close. Stay overnight on the cruise.

• Day 19: Mekong Delta – Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Complete your Mekong Delta exploration with a morning market visit. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon and enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

• Day 20: Ho Chi Minh Departure

Your adventure in Vietnam concludes. Transfer to the airport for your departure, filled with memories of Vietnam’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.

Itinerary 2: Vietnam Highlights 14 Days For First-Time Travelers

If you are first-time visitors who want to see the country’s highlights without feeling rushed, Vietnam 14 days itinerary should be the perfect choice.

You’ll visit all the major regions of Vietnam – the North, Central, and South while still having enough time in each place to get a real feel for the local culture and attractions. If you looking for an estimated cost, you can view our Vietnam Highlights Experience 14 days. Just take it as a reference since we offer private tours so your itinerary can be customized to match your travel interests. Here is a typical 14-day itinerary might include:

Phase 1: North of Vietnam (5 days)

• Day 1: Hanoi arrival
  

Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, where the energy of the city introduces you to its culture and bustling life. Check into your hotel and unwind or take a stroll around the Hoan Kiem Lake and Old Quarter.

• Day 2: Hanoi full-day city tour 

Take in Hanoi’s major landmarks, from Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature to the Old Quarter’s narrow lanes. Discover both popular sites and hidden spots.

• Day 3: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Trang An – Bai Dinh pagoda

Travel to Ninh Binh to explore Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist temple in Vietnam. Later, enjoy a boat trip through Trang An’s caves and scenic waterways.

• Day 4: Ninh Binh – Mua Cave – Bich Dong Pagoda – Biking

Start with a sunrise view at Mua Cave, then bike through the picturesque countryside to visit Bich Dong Pagoda, nestled among limestone mountains and rice paddies.

• Day 5: Ninh Binh – Drive to Halong- Overnight on cruise

Drive to Halong Bay, where you’ll board a cruise to explore its majestic limestone islands. Enjoy kayaking, cave visits, and a sunset dinner on the deck.

Phase 2: Central of Vietnam (4 days)

• Day 6: Halong – Transfer back to Hanoi – Flight to Hue

Morning Tai Chi and scenic cruising before returning to Hanoi for a flight to Hue, where you’ll have the evening at leisure.

• Day 7: Hue – Cooking class – City tour

Experience a cooking class to learn Hue’s unique flavors. Spend the afternoon exploring the Imperial City, pagodas, and royal tombs.

• Day 8: Hue – Drive to Hoi An

Travel to Hoi An, a charming riverside town. Check into your hotel and enjoy the afternoon exploring Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, local markets, and historic buildings.

• Day 9: Hoi An ancient town half-day tour

Discover Hoi An’s heritage sites, including the Japanese Covered Bridge and ancient houses. The afternoon is free for shopping or relaxing by the beach.

Phase 3: South of Vietnam (5 days)

• Day 10: Hoi An – Drive to Da Nang – Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

Depart for Da Nang to catch a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll spend the evening exploring the city’s nightlife and street food.

• Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City – Cao Dai – Cu Chi

Visit the Cao Dai Temple to observe an intricate worship ceremony, then explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, learning about Vietnam’s war history.

• Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta

Enjoy a day in the Mekong Delta, cruising through canals, visiting orchards, and tasting local produce. Interact with villagers and learn about delta life.

• Day 13: Mekong Delta – Return to Ho Chi Minh City
  

Complete your Mekong Delta experience and return to Ho Chi Minh City for a relaxing evening or final shopping trip.

• Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City departure

Depart from Ho Chi Minh City, carrying memories of a culturally rich and diverse Vietnam journey.

Itinerary 3: A Glimpse of Vietnam 12 Days 

A 12-day tour of Vietnam is perfect for those who want to see the country’s highlights in a relatively short time. You’ll move at a slightly quicker pace but still have time to experience the essence of each destination. This itinerary covers the main highlights from south to north, giving you a comprehensive overview of Vietnam’s diversity.

Consider this 12-day route:

Phase 1: Southern Vietnam (3 days)

• Day 1: Ho Chi Minh’s arrival

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, check into your hotel, and rest after your journey.

• Day 2: Cu Chi tunnel – Ho Chi Minh half-day tour

Tour the Cu Chi Tunnels, then explore key city sites, including Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and Ben Thanh Market.

• Day 3: Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta

Cruise through the Mekong Delta’s canals, visiting local homes, tasting fruit, and learning about delta life.

Phase 2: Central of Vietnam (4 days)

• Day 4: Ho Chi Minh – Flight to Da Nang – Drive to Hoi An

Check out your hotel then drive to Tan Son Nhat airport, fly to Da Nang, and transfer to Hoi An. You will have a free evening to explore the town.

• Day 5: Hoi An – My Son

Visit My Son Sanctuary, then enjoy the afternoon at leisure, exploring Hoi An’s shops, countryside, or beaches.

• Day 6: Hoi An – Da Nang – Hue

Travel from Hoi An to Hue via the scenic Hai Van Pass, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking coastal views. Once in Hue, settle into your hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure. Take an evening stroll along the Perfume River or explore Hue’s night market.

• Day 7: Hue city tour

Embark on a full-day tour of Hue’s historic sites, including the Imperial City, the majestic Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Tombs of the Nguyen Emperors. Discover Hue’s rich history as Vietnam’s former capital and gain insights into its unique culture and architecture.

Phase 3: Northern Vietnam (5 days)

• Day 8: Hue – Flight to Hanoi

Take a morning flight to Hanoi and enjoy an afternoon of leisure or light exploration. Get a taste of Hanoi’s famous street food scene or take a stroll through the French Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake area.

• Day 9: Hanoi city tour

Explore Hanoi’s top attractions on a full-day city tour, visiting landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Complex, the Temple of Literature, and the Ethnology Museum. Enjoy a cyclo ride through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter and see traditional Vietnamese water puppetry in the evening.

• Day 10: Hanoi – Halong

Drive to Halong Bay and board an overnight cruise, gliding through emerald waters dotted with limestone islands. Enjoy lunch onboard, followed by afternoon activities like kayaking, swimming, or visiting limestone caves. Savor a sunset dinner and evening on the deck.

• Day 11: Halong – Hanoi

Wake up to sunrise over Halong Bay and participate in a Tai Chi session on deck. After breakfast, take part in any remaining morning activities before the cruise returns to port. Drive back to Hanoi, where you’ll have a final evening for last-minute shopping or a farewell dinner.

• Day 12: Hanoi departure

Transfer to the airport for your departure. With your 12-day journey across Vietnam complete, you’ll leave with memories of the country’s culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.

Consider our A Glimpse of Vietnam 12 days begins at USD1,124 per person. Or else if your are a food lover, you can check out this Vietnam Culinary Highlights 12 Days starting from Ho Chi Minh City.

Itinerary 4: Essence of Vietnam 10 Days 

A 10-day tour of Vietnam is the perfect choice for time-pressed travelers who still want to experience the country’s main highlights. The key difference with a 10-day tour is its focus on the absolute must-see destinations. Here’s a sample 10-day itinerary:

Phase 1: Discovery Southern Vietnam (3 days)

• Day 1: Ho Chi Minh’s arrival

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s bustling southern hub, known for its mix of French colonial architecture and dynamic urban life. After check-in, unwind at your hotel or explore nearby attractions. Take a short walk around Ben Thanh Market or enjoy dinner at one of the city’s many excellent local restaurants.

• Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City half-day tour

Begin your Vietnam adventure with a half-day tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s iconic landmarks. Visit the Reunification Palace, a historic symbol of Vietnam’s reunification, and explore the War Remnants Museum, which provides insight into Vietnam’s recent history. Continue to the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica and the Saigon Central Post Office, architectural legacies of the French colonial era. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure, perhaps visiting local markets or cafes.

• Day 3: Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta full-day tour

Head to the lush Mekong Delta for a day of exploration. Cruise through winding canals lined with coconut palms and visit local villages, where you’ll see traditional crafts and enjoy tasting fresh tropical fruits. Stop at floating markets and take a rowboat ride through narrow waterways, experiencing the daily life and vibrant culture of the Mekong region. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

Phase 2: Explore Central Vietnam (3 days)

• Day 4: Ho Chi Minh – Flight to Danang – Drive to Hoi An

Take a morning flight to Da Nang, then transfer to the charming town of Hoi An. Known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Check into your hotel and enjoy an evening wandering through Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, exploring the bustling riverside and sampling local street food.

• Day 5: Hoi An – Biking – Tra Que village – Hoi An ancient town

Spend the morning biking through the lush countryside, heading towards Tra Que Village. Here, you’ll learn about organic farming practices from local farmers and participate in activities like soil preparation and vegetable planting. Enjoy a traditional lunch prepared with fresh ingredients from the garden. In the afternoon, return to Hoi An’s ancient town for a guided walking tour, discovering sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, and the vibrant local market.

• Day 6: Hoi An – My Son Sanctuary half-day tour

Visit My Son Sanctuary, a cluster of abandoned Hindu temples and tombs dating back to the Champa Kingdom. Surrounded by jungle and mountain scenery, these ancient structures offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s ancient heritage and unique architecture. Return to Hoi An in the afternoon, where you have the rest of the day at leisure—perhaps to relax by the beach or enjoy more of Hoi An’s local food and shops.

Phase 3: North of Vietnam (4 days)

• Day 7: Hoi An – Drive to Da Nang – Flight to Hanoi

Travel from Hoi An to Da Nang for a flight to Hanoi, the cultural capital of Vietnam. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely evening exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter, famous for its maze-like streets filled with unique shops, cafes, and street food vendors.

• Day 8: Hanoi full-day city tour

Start your Hanoi experience with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum, followed by the iconic One Pillar Pagoda and Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university. Dive into the city’s rich cultural tapestry with a stroll around the Old Quarter and a visit to the Ethnology Museum. End your day with a traditional water puppet show, a unique art form deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture.

• Day 9: Hanoi – Overnight in Halong Bay cruise

Leave Hanoi in the morning and drive to Halong Bay, where you’ll embark on an overnight cruise. Discover the bay’s legendary limestone formations and emerald waters, enjoying activities such as kayaking or exploring hidden caves. As evening falls, savor a delicious seafood dinner onboard, followed by a relaxing evening watching the stars.

• Day 10: Halong- Hanoi – Departure

Wake up to a serene sunrise over Halong Bay and start the day with Tai Chi on deck. Enjoy breakfast before exploring a final cave or floating village. Return to port and transfer back to Hanoi. Depending on your departure time, you might have some time to shop for last-minute souvenirs before heading to the airport for your onward journey.

Our Discover the Essence of Vietnam 10 Days tour provides an excellent foundation for your Vietnam trip idea. If you want to get the quote for a customize itinerary, drop us your request by click here or email at vietnam@indochinavoyages.

When is the ideal time to visit Vietnam?

Vietnam weather’s overview

Vietnam’s climate plays a crucial role in determining how long to spend in Vietnam. The country’s length means weather conditions vary significantly between regions.

Generally, the best time to visit spans from February to April and August to October. These months offer milder temperatures and lower humidity across most of the country.

• North Vietnam: Spring (February to April) and Fall (September to November) offer pleasant weather.
• Central Vietnam: February to August is ideal, with warm, dry conditions.
• South Vietnam: December to April provides dry, sunny weather.

Peak & low season

Peak season (December to February) attracts more visitors due to several factors:

• Cooler, drier weather in the north and south
• Major holidays like Christmas, New Year, and Tet (Vietnamese New Year)
• Winter escape for travelers from colder climates

During this time, popular destinations can get crowded, and prices for accommodation and flights tend to increase. However, if you organize a tour with a trusted agent in Vietnam, we can assure you that with proper planning, you can still enjoy Vietnam during the peak season at an affordable price. We have established relationships with local providers, allowing us to secure favorable rates even during busy periods. Plus, we can guide you to less crowded alternatives that offer equally enriching experiences.

Low season (May to September) sees fewer tourists primarily because:

• Higher temperatures and humidity across the country
• Increased rainfall, particularly in the north and south

While these conditions might seem challenging, the low season offers unique advantages. Reduced tourist numbers mean more authentic local interactions, lower prices, and a lush, green landscape perfect for photography. During the low season, a special offer is applied for our Vietnam tours. So if you plan to travel to Vietnam from 1st May to 31st Sep, please reach out to us here or email at [email protected] for more details.

In conclusion, the ideal duration for your Vietnam tour depends on your personal preferences, interests, and travel style. Whether you choose a whirlwind 10-day adventure or an immersive 20-day journey, Vietnam promises unforgettable experiences. Plan wisely, stay flexible, and embrace the unexpected. Your perfect Vietnam tour awaits, tailored to your timeframe and wanderlust.

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