11 days in Vietnam

11 day in Vietnam itineraries offer ample time to explore the country from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi – or in reverse. It also allows for combining your trip with Laos, Cambodia or Thailand

With 11 days in Vietnam, you can explore many landmarks of our country. From a culture tour around the quaint capital city, Hanoi to the UNESCO Heritage site Ha Long Bay, then head to Central Vietnam to the imperial capital Hue, beaches in Da Nang and Nha Trang, ancient town Hoi An, and finish with bustling Ho Chi Minh City and Mekong Delta, let’s be amazed by the hidden charm of Vietnam.

11 days in Vietnam itineraries and travel tips

Best travel destinations

• Ho Chi Minh City: 1-2 days
• Cu Chi Tunnels + Cao Dai Holy See: 1 day
• Mekong Delta: 1-2 days
• Phu Quoc Island – Beach relax: 2-5 days
• Nha Trang Beach: 2-5 days
• Da Nang – Hoi An: 2-3 days
• Hanoi: 1-2 days
• Ha Long Bay: 1-2 days
• Ninh Binh: 1-2 days
• Mai Chau: 1-2 days
• Sapa: 3-4 days
• Ha Giang: 3-5 days

Want to know the best ways to spend your time in Vietnam? Check out our articles about Vietnam seasons and Vietnam itinerary suggestions.

Suggested itineraries

The highlights for every tourist in their first time to Vietnam are Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and Mekong Delta. You can customize your tours to Vietnam with our expert team of travel consultants who can understand every customer’s requirement and arrange a perfect vacation for you.

Do not forget to spend time in Hanoi when traveling to Vietnam. Taking a cyclo ride around the Old Quarter, attending Hanoi Night Market, visiting historical relics, and enjoying delicious street food such as Pho and Bun cha are must-do things in the capital city.

Some attractions nearby Hanoi include Sapa, Ha Giang, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, and Mai Chau. For an 11-day tour in Vietnam, you cannot miss a Halong Bay cruise to swim in the emerald water, admire glorious caves and grottoes, and relax on a beautiful vessel.

A beach lover will find Central Vietnam a paradise because of its crystal-clear beaches, white sand and swaying coconut rows. Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Mui Ne, which are internationally awarded for their mesmerizing beaches, should be on your bucket list.

Southern Vietnam is famous for dynamic Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon), stunning Phu Quoc, and exciting floating markets in the Mekong Delta.

Itinerary 1: 11 days in Vietnam from North to South

Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong delta

Day 1: Arrive Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy free time to relax or explore the charming Old Quarter at your own pace.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour

Discover Hanoi’s highlights on a full-day city tour, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, and a walking tour through the Old Quarter.

Day 3: Cruise to Ha Long Bay

Depart for Ha Long Bay and board an overnight cruise. Enjoy scenic limestone landscapes, visit caves, and take part in onboard activities like kayaking or a cooking class.

Day 4: Ha Long Bay – Hue via Hanoi

Continue cruising in the morning. Return to Hanoi and take a flight to Hue. Check in and relax in this historic former imperial capital.

Day 5: Hue City Tour

Explore Hue’s cultural sites, including the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and royal tombs. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride along the Perfume River.

Day 6: Hue – Da Nang

Travel from Hue to Da Nang. Stop to admire Hai Van Pass and visit Da Nang’s beaches or Cham Museum before relaxing in Hoi An.

Day 7: Da Nang – Ho Chi Minh City

Enjoy a relaxing morning before taking a flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City. Check in and enjoy an evening at your leisure.

Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City Tour

Tour Ho Chi Minh City’s major attractions, including the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and bustling Ben Thanh Market.

Day 9: HCM City – My Tho – Can Tho

Depart for My Tho in the Mekong Delta. Enjoy a boat ride through canals and visit local villages. Continue to Can Tho for the night.

Day 10: Can Tho – Ho Chi Minh City

Visit the Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho. After exploring the vibrant river life, return to Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon.

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City – Depart

Free time before your transfer to the airport for departure from Ho Chi Minh City.

Itinerary 2: 11 days in Vietnam from South to North

Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong delta – Da Nang – Hoi An – Ha Noi – Ha Long Bay

Day 1: Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy some free time to rest or explore the city’s lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Take a city tour of Ho Chi Minh City, visiting iconic colonial buildings, the War Remnants Museum, and bustling local markets to experience the city’s vibrant culture and rich history.

Day 3: Explore Cai Be and Vinh Long’s floating markets. Enjoy a sampan boat ride and sample fresh tropical fruits like rambutan, jackfruit, and pomelo sold by friendly local vendors.

Day 4: Return to Ho Chi Minh City. In the afternoon, visit the historic Cu Chi Tunnels and learn about the underground life during the Vietnam War.

Day 5: Take a morning flight to Da Nang. Transfer to Hoi An and enjoy a relaxing afternoon exploring the town or unwinding at a nearby beach.

Day 6: Join a cycling tour through Hoi An’s countryside to Tra Que Village. Participate in a hands-on cooking class and learn how to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes.

Day 7: Return to Da Nang for a short flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival, check in and enjoy some leisure time or explore the nearby Old Quarter.

Day 8: Discover Hanoi’s cultural charm with visits to ancient pagodas, historical museums, and colonial landmarks. Stroll through the Old Quarter’s lively streets and sample local cuisine.

Day 9: Depart for Ha Long Bay and begin an overnight cruise. Enjoy swimming, kayaking, and relaxing amidst the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters.

Day 10: Visit beautiful caves filled with stalactites and stalagmites. After brunch, disembark and return to Hanoi by road for an overnight stay.

Day 11: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Transfer to the airport for your departure flight in the evening.

Itinerary 3: 11 days in Vietnam and Cambodia

Siem Reap – Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong delta – Hanoi – Ha Long Bay

Day 1: Arrive in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy free time to rest or explore the vibrant streets near the city center.

Day 2: Spend the day exploring the magnificent Angkor Wat and nearby temples. Discover ancient Khmer architecture and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 3: Visit Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. Take a boat ride to see floating villages and experience the unique lifestyle of local fishing communities.

Day 4: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy some leisure time to relax or stroll through the city’s lively streets.

Day 5: Discover Ho Chi Minh City’s highlights, including the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and War Remnants Museum. Experience local life at Ben Thanh Market.

Day 6: Take a day trip to Cai Be and Vinh Long in the Mekong Delta. Explore floating markets, cruise on a sampan, and return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

Day 7: Fly to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital. In the evening, explore the Old Quarter’s bustling streets, local markets, and traditional eateries.

Day 8: Enjoy a full-day city tour of Hanoi, visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda, and a traditional water puppet show.

Day 9: Depart for Ha Long Bay and board an overnight cruise. Cruise among stunning limestone islands, enjoy swimming, and take part in activities like kayaking or a cooking demonstration.

Day 10: Visit a beautiful cave before brunch on board. Disembark and return to Hanoi, arriving in the late afternoon for a final evening in the capital.

Day 11: Free time for last-minute shopping or relaxing before your transfer to the airport for departure from Hanoi.

Itinerary 4: 11 days in Vietnam and Laos

Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay – Luang Prabang – Vientiane 

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam’s charming capital. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy some leisure time to explore the Old Quarter or relax after your journey.

Day 2: Discover Hanoi’s top sights, including Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and other historical and cultural landmarks on a guided city tour.

Day 3: Travel to Ninh Binh. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through Tam Coc’s limestone karsts and rice fields. Spend the night surrounded by the rural charm of Ninh Binh.

Day 4: Head to Halong Bay and board a scenic overnight cruise. Admire towering limestone islands, go kayaking or swimming, and enjoy local seafood on board.

Day 5: Greet the morning with stunning views of Halong Bay. Visit a limestone cave, then return to Hanoi by midday for free time or optional activities.

Day 6: Fly to Luang Prabang, Laos. Check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in this UNESCO-listed town known for its temples and laid-back vibe.

Day 7: Explore Luang Prabang’s cultural gems, including Wat Xieng Thong, the Royal Palace Museum, and Mount Phousi. Experience local markets and Buddhist heritage.

Day 8: Trek through the lush jungle to Kuang Si Waterfalls. Swim in the cool, turquoise pools and visit the nearby bear rescue center.

Day 9: Take a flight to Vientiane, Laos’ capital. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening along the Mekong River.

Day 10: Discover Vientiane’s highlights, including Pha That Luang, Patuxai Monument, Wat Sisaket, and the COPE Center. Enjoy the relaxed pace of this riverside capital.

Day 11: Enjoy some free time before transferring to the airport for your departure flight from Vientiane

Things to do

11 days in Vietnam are enough for foreign travelers to understand Vietnam’s history and culture, as well as experience every aspect of our beautiful country like a local.

Hanoi City Tour

Some interesting places to include on your Hanoi City Tours are:

• Hoan Kiem Lake
• Old Quarter area
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (closed on Monday and Friday)
• Temple of Literature
• Tran Quoc Pagoda
• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

For better understanding of Vietnamese culture, we recommend you watching a Water Puppet Show or participating in a Hanoi cooking class.

Other ancient villages in the suburban Hanoi you can visit:

• Duong Lam Ancient Village
• Van Phuc Silk Village
• Bat Trang Ceramic Village

Hanoi is also the place to find the highest quality handicrafts. Some addresses we recommend to purchase souvenirs and gifts in Hanoi:

• Key chains, magnets and silks: at Dinh Tien Hoang and Hang Gai Street
• Dong Ho Folk Painting: Zo Project at 10 Dien Bien Phu street (near Hanoi Train Street, an exotic place to take photos)
• Coffee: Highlands Café opposite KFC in the Hoan Kiem Lake area
• O mai (Sugared Dried Fruits): Van Loi at 24 Hang Da Street

For more information: 17 Best Vietnam Souvenirs Ideas for Kids and Adults

Food in Hanoi

In Hanoi, you can go around Old Quarter area, observe local life and try some local dishes. Some food and drink in Hanoi we recommend for your trip here:

• Pho: 10 Ly Quoc Su Street
• Bun cha Huong Lien (or Bun cha Obama): 24 Le Van Huu Street
• Cha ca (grilled fish): 14 Cha Ca Street
• Banh cuon Thanh Van: 12 Hang Ga Street
• Egg coffee: Café Dinh at 13 Dinh Tien Hoang Street
• Che Ba Thin: 1 Bat Dan Street
• Bia hoi (craft beer): at Ta Hien Street

Halong Bay Cruise – The best thing to do for 11 days in Vietnam

Recognized as a UNESCO Heritage site in 1994, Halong Bay becomes one of the most well-known destinations in Vietnam. This emerald bay is the home to 1,969 islands, of which only 989 have been named. The formation of these islands could be dated back to 250 or 280 million years ago.

Here are some interesting activities you can do on a Halong Bay cruise:

Cave Exploring

Halong Bay area features a lot of mysterious and amazing caves. Formed by stalactites and stalagmites in various shapes and sizes, the cave system here is one of the Kong’s filming destinations in our country besides Ninh Binh. Sung Sot Cave (Surprising Cave), Thien Cung Cave (Heaven Palace Cave), and Dau Go Cave (Wooden Stakes Cave) are cannot-miss places in the area.

Kayaking

It is beneficial to build your muscles when traveling to a pristine destination like Halong Bay. There is no better workout than kayaking in fresh air at a beautiful bay, at the same time interacting with other friends on your cruise.

Cooking Class

Normally, nem (spring rolls), either fried or fresh, is included in a cooking demonstration class on board. The cooking process is actually easy, but you will need to purchase rice papers in Vietnam if you wish to try making this food when returning home. It is an opportunity for you to understand local gastronomy and make Vietnamese food with other foreign friends.

Hue City tour

Hue used to be the capital city of Vietnam under the Nguyen dynasty from 1802 to 1945. This was the last imperial family in Vietnam before our country being proclaimed independence by President Ho Chi Minh.

Nowadays, Hue is known as one of the most poetic cities in Vietnam. Travelers can have a chance to go through a glorious period of Vietnam’s history as well as immerse in mesmerizing natural sceneries when traveling to Hue. Do not forget to visit these places in this city:

• Imperial Citadel
• Purple Forbidden City
• Royal Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc
• Royal Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh
• Perfume River
• Thien Mu Pagoda
• Dong Ba Market

Hoi An Ancient Town

Although Hoi An is a small town with a total area of 60 square kilometers, there is no lack of fun in this town. Dating from the 15^th to 19^th century, Hoi An was a bustling trading port. Nowadays, the architecture of this town, which is the combination of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese traditional styles, is still relatively well-preserved.

Most attractions in Hoi An concentrates on main streets like Phan Chau Trinh, Nguyen Hue, and Le Loi streets. Japanese Covered Bridge is a precious gem of Hoi An Old Town. It was used to link the Japanese community on the western side of the town and the Chinese community on the east.

Taking pictures in front of ancient houses is must-do thing in Hoi An. Out of three old houses in Hoi An (Tan Ky, Phung Hung and Duc An), Tan Ky is the most famous one. This is a 200-year-old house which was passed through seven generations of a Vietnamese family.

Da Nang

Da Nang is praised as the ‘most liveable city in Vietnam’. Compared to quaint Hoi An, Da Nang is more exciting and dynamic; you can find a lot of fancy restaurants, bars, clubs, and pubs here. You can note down these activities on your trip to Da Nang:

• Trek to Marble Mountain
• Visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture
• Watch sunrises and sunsets at My Khe Beach
• Pray at Linh Ung Pagoda
• Spend time at Ba Na Hills, 42 kilometers from Da Nang, and visit the gorgeous Golden Bridge
• Shopping at Han Market near Han River

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) is the most dynamic and bustling city in Vietnam. It is remarkable for the harmonious blending of traditional values with northern and western cultural features. Skyscrapers dot the city and everywhere are the signs of growing status cars, mobile phones, upscale cafes, fine dining and trendy nightlife. This city will be an ideal destination for history buffs who love to discover our colonial era. There are many colonial architecture and museums for your tour to Ho Chi Minh City: Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, Museum of Vietnamese History, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Saigon Opera House. For shopaholics, don’t forget to check out Ben Thanh Market and many other shopping malls.

Some souvenirs you can purchase in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Trung Nguyen coffee
• Phuc Long tea
• Marou chocolate
• Silk
• Non la (conial hat)
• Lacquerware

Cu Chi Tunnels

After discovering Ho Chi Minh City, you can gain more knowledge about the Vietnam War by visiting Cu Chi Tunnels.

60 kilometers from the center of Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi was used to be the hiding spot of our soldiers during the Vietnam War. This network of 200-kilometer tunnel has become the symbol of the Vietnamese army’s bravery and boldness. Cu Chi Tunnels were specially constructed with many traps integrated with an underground city consisting of living areas, kitchens, field hospitals and weapon storage.

Visit floating markets in the Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta is praised as the most prosperous region in our country. This place is famous for the abundance of agricultural products and bucolic rural landscape.

Floating market is an essential part of every Mekong Delta tour. Travelers can see an exotic and exciting local life with vendors riding boats, selling succulent tropical fruits, and amazing local dishes.

Besides, tourists often enjoy observing the process of making traditional products such as coconut candies, rice paste and rice popcorn in this region.

Budget for 11 days

Budget for 11 days in Vietnam

It is important to calculate the cost for 11 days in Vietnam before booking any service. Since the tourism and hospitality industry is developing in our country, you can find high-quality services at relatively affordable prices:

• Accommodations: It is easy to find a 2 or 3-star hotel at US $20-50/night in tourist destinations like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. For luxurious options, you can seek for a 5-star hotel and resort at US $200-500/ night. For backpackers, you can choose a hostel from US $4-5/night and share your rooms with other travelers.
• Transportation: In downtown, you can easily book a taxi or use Grab. If you want to travel to another town, you can have several options from bus, train to domestic flight.
• Since our country is famous for its culinary art, the meal cost in Vietnam is actually lower compared to other countries in Southeast Asia. You can have Pho, Bun cha or Banh mi with only US $1.5-4.0

Travel tips

1. Immigration

Most travelers entering Vietnam need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond their arrival date. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa, which can be obtained via an e-visa (available to citizens of many countries), a visa on arrival (for air travelers with pre-approval), or through a Vietnamese embassy. The e-visa is recommended for its convenience and allows single-entry stays of up to 90 days. Upon arrival, have your passport, printed visa or approval letter, and proof of onward travel ready. For visa on arrival, be prepared to pay a stamping fee in cash (USD or VND). Immigration lines can be long, especially in major airports like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, so it helps to arrive early and stay patient.

2. Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam’s climate varies by region, so the best time to visit depends on your itinerary. In general, spring (March-April) and autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather across the country, especially in the north and central regions. During these times, you can enjoy Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An with cooler temperatures and minimal rain. Summer (May-August) is great for southern beach destinations like Phu Quoc and Nha Trang, though northern and central areas can experience heavy rainfall. Winter (December–February) is mild and dry in the south, ideal for exploring Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, while the north gets cooler and sometimes foggy. Planning around regional climates will help you make the most of your trip.

3. Travel with Kids or Elders

Vietnam is a welcoming destination for families and travelers of all ages. Most major attractions and cities offer accommodations with family-friendly amenities, including elevators, ground-floor rooms, and kid-friendly menus. Traveling with kids? Beaches like Da Nang and Phu Quoc are great for downtime, and cultural shows or hands-on activities (like cooking classes or lantern making in Hoi An) are engaging. When traveling with elders, plan for slower-paced tours and comfortable transportation – private cars or flights between major cities are recommended over buses or long train rides. Avoid high-traffic walking routes in cities during peak hours. Also, bring medications and consider health insurance with coverage in Vietnam. Locals are generally warm and respectful toward elders and children, and you’ll find plenty of support along the way.

4. Cultural Etiquette

Vietnamese culture places great emphasis on respect, especially toward elders, religious spaces, and community harmony. When visiting temples or pagodas, wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Always remove shoes before entering someone’s home or sacred sites. Public displays of affection should be limited and avoid raising your voice or making aggressive gestures. It’s polite to greet with a slight bow or a friendly smile; shaking hands is acceptable, though not expected from women. Avoid pointing your finger at people or sacred objects. When dining, wait for the eldest person to start before you eat. Use both hands when giving or receiving gifts or items. A respectful, humble approach will go a long way in ensuring warm interactions throughout your journey.

5. Money

Vietnam’s official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). While U.S. dollars are accepted in some tourist spots, it’s best to pay in VND for accurate pricing. ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas, and major credit cards are accepted at hotels, upscale restaurants, and shops. However, cash is essential for local markets, small vendors, and rural areas. Carry smaller denominations to avoid payment issues, as change can be limited. Tipping isn’t mandatory but is appreciated – small tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff go a long way. Bargaining is common in markets; do it politely and with a smile. Before traveling, notify your bank of your trip to avoid card issues and consider carrying a currency conversion app for easy calculations.

Recommended tours

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• South and Central Vietnam Vacation for Family in 11 Days

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