| Length | Stops | Nights |
|---|---|---|
| 10 days | Hanoi, Ha Long or Lan Ha Bay, Ninh Binh, Da Nang and Hoi An | 3 + 1 + 1 + 4 |
| 14 days | the same, then Ho Chi Minh City or Phu Quoc | 3 + 1 + 1 + 4 + 4 |
| 21 days | add Sapa or Ha Giang (3 nights) and Hue (2 nights) | depending on the order |
The north: Hanoi, the bay and Ninh Binh
Allow three nights in Hanoi (Hanoi in 3 days), one night in the bay (overnight cruise or day cruise) and one night in Ninh Binh (day trip). For Sapa, see the Sapa trek; for motorbike fans, the Ha Giang loop.
Where to sleep for this itinerary. For the first night, Hoan Kiem is the simplest base on arrival and for starting the rest of the trip. Compare hotels with free cancellation in Hoan Kiem and see our where-to-stay guide (Hanoi) to pick the neighbourhood.
The centre: Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An
Take the flight from Hanoi to Da Nang, then a car or taxi for 30 km to Hoi An: see Hanoi to Hoi An and Da Nang. Hue is added in 3 weeks.
The south: Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc
A flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City takes about 1 hour 20 to 1 hour 30; the reverse order is possible, but north to south makes better use of the south's dry season from December to April. To compare the two big cities, see Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
When to go
Vietnam has three climates: the best window for a north-south trip is March-April, then October-December for the north and south while skipping the centre. See Vietnam in March, Vietnam in April, Vietnam in November and when to visit Hanoi. Tet falls on 6 February 2027: book early.
Before you go
- Visa: see the e-visa.
- Connectivity: SIM or eSIM in Vietnam.
- Insurance: travel insurance for Vietnam.
- Budget: travelling in Hanoi on a budget.
Mistakes to avoid
- Too many stops in too few days: aim for at least two nights per stop.
- Booking domestic flights too late around Tet or public holidays.
- Counting on the night train between Hanoi and Da Nang to save time: it takes about 16 hours or more.
- Forgetting the typhoon season in the north and centre.
FAQ
How many days for Vietnam? 10 days for the north and centre, 2 weeks with the south, 3 weeks to see everything without rushing.
North to south or south to north? North to south is the most common direction; the choice depends on the season.
Do I need to fly within the country? Yes for long distances: train and bus take 15 hours or more between Hanoi and Da Nang.
