| Length | Realistic itinerary | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| 7 days | Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay | Trying to add the south |
| 10 to 14 days | Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Hue or Da Nang and Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City | More than 4 stops |
| 3 weeks | North to south with Sapa or Ha Giang and the Mekong Delta | Last-minute domestic flights |
Where to go and for how long
The north (Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ha Long, Sapa) needs a week, the centre (Da Nang and Hoi An) four to five days, the south (Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta) four to five days. For a first overview, read the Vietnam itinerary and the map of Vietnam. For an excursion near the capital, see Ninh Binh from Hanoi.
Season and budget
Vietnam is long, so the climate changes from region to region: read when to go to Vietnam. For a low-budget trip, one backpacker describes 20 to 30 dollars a day; return flights from France are estimated at 850 to 1,350 euros depending on the period. Sort out the e-visa, think about travel insurance and the currency.
Getting between stops
Hanoi to Sapa takes 6 to 8 hours by bus or 8 to 9 hours by night train; Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City takes 31 to 35 hours by train, so flying is better for the distance (train or flight). For the night train, see the sleeper train. Start by comparing Hanoi Old Quarter hotels with free cancellation.
FAQ
How many days for a first trip to Vietnam? At least 10 to 14 days to cross the country; seven days are enough for the north alone.
What budget should I plan? About 500 to 1,200 dollars a week per person excluding flights depending on comfort; a backpacker reports 20 to 30 dollars a day.
When is the best time to go? November to April for the dry season according to several sources; February to April is cited for dry weather in both the north and the centre.
