Make the most of your journey through Vietnam with a well-structured route tailored to your time, travel style and interests. From mountain highlands to coastal gems, Vietnam rewards thoughtful planning.

Understand Vietnam’s Geography
Vietnam is a long, narrow country stretching over 1,600 km from north to south. Its diverse regions mean you’ll experience a wide variety of landscapes, climates and cultures depending on where you go.
- North: Cultural heritage, mountains, ethnic villages (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Giang, Halong Bay)
- Central: Ancient cities, beaches and nature (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, Phong Nha)
- South: Urban energy, river life and tropical warmth (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)
Choose Your Direction: North-to-South or South-to-North
North-to-South is the most popular direction, starting in Hanoi and ending in Ho Chi Minh City. This allows travelers to begin with cultural immersion and cooler climates and end in the warmer, more relaxed southern pace.
South-to-North works well for those flying into Ho Chi Minh City or seeking to finish with mountain trekking or cooler northern landscapes.
Tip: If you’re limited on time, consider focusing on just two regions to reduce travel fatigue.
How Long to Spend
A rough breakdown for different trip lengths:
- 7-10 days: Focus on two key regions (e.g. North + Central or Central + South)
- 12-15 days: Ideal for all three regions with a balance of cities, nature and culture
- 16+ days: Great for deeper discovery including off-the-beaten-path areas and slow travel
Check out some of our suggestions for Vietnam tour itineraries
Classic Discovery (10 Days):
- Hanoi – Halong Bay – Hue – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta
Nature & Culture (14 Days):
- Hanoi – Sapa – Ha Giang – Halong Bay – Ninh Binh – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City
Adventure Loop (16+ Days):
- Hanoi – Pu Luong – Ninh Binh – Phong Nha – Hue – Hoi An – Da Lat – Mekong Delta
Travel Modes Between Destinations
Vietnam’s long shape means domestic travel can be time-consuming. Choose wisely based on your comfort level and time.
- Flights: Fastest for long routes (e.g. Hanoi – Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City)
- Trains: Scenic and affordable, ideal for routes like Hanoi – Hue – Da Nang
- Private cars or transfers: Best for flexibility and offbeat stops
- Buses: Budget-friendly but longer and less comfortable for families or older travelers
Pro Tip: Combine a short domestic flight with road transfers to explore both major cities and hidden gems.

Plan Around Seasonal Differences
Vietnam’s weather varies sharply by region:
- North (Hanoi, Sapa): Best from October to April (cooler and dry)
- Central (Hue, Hoi An): Avoid storms between September and November
- South (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong): Warm year-round, dry season is December to April
Make sure your route accounts for regional climates so you avoid floods, heatwaves or fog during scenic journeys.
Final Tips for Planning Your Route
- Start or end in a major international hub (Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City)
- Avoid overloading your itinerary – Vietnam’s beauty is best enjoyed unhurried
- Choose a mix of well-known highlights and local experiences
- Leave space for flexibility – discovery tours are all about spontaneity