Are you dreaming of emerald rice paddies, lively street food markets, limestone karsts rising from turquoise waters, and ancient temples bursting with history? Vietnam is a land of extremes, packed with incredible scenery, diverse culture, and colorful cities.
If it’s your first trip to Vietnam, this comprehensive Vietnam travel guide provides you with the best advice to plan a trip to Vietnam efficiently with the ultimate detailed itinerary and the top travel tips for a smooth and unforgettable trip.
Why Visit Vietnam?
From the misty mountains of the north to the beach resorts of the south, Vietnam caters to every type of traveler. Backpacker? Honeymooner? Culture vulture?
This beautiful country of SouthEast Asia offers a perfect blend of opportunities for adventure, food, history and scenery.
And best of all, it is super cheap and very easy for first-time travelers.
Vietnam Itinerary: 10 Days of Discovery
Ten days in Vietnam allows for a good experience, from busy cities to quiet places. Here is a sample travel itinerary in Vietnam (10 days) for first-time visitors.
Day 1–2: Hanoi
Check out the Old Quarter
See Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
Eat street food (Don’t skip Pho and Bun Cha)
Watch a traditional water puppet show
Day 3–4: Ha Long Bay Cruise
Overnight cruise on the boat through limestone karsts
Kayaking through caves and villages
Sunset on the deck!
Day 5–6: Hoi An
Stroll around Hoi An Ancient Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
See the Japanese Bridge and the lantern-lit streets
Get custom clothes made in less than 24 hours
Chill out on An Bang Beach
Day 7–8: Hue
Explore the Imperial City and the royal tombs
Take a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River
Discover Vietnam’s imperial history
Day 9–10: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels and War Remnants Museum
Experience nightlife on Bui Vien Street
Taste local favorites like Banh Mi and Vietnamese iced coffee
Tip: Fly between regions (Hanoi to Da Nang, Hue to Ho Chi Minh) to save time.
Vietnam Travel Tips for First-Timers
If you’re visiting First time in Vietnam, there are some easier suggestions to help make your experience smoother. Here are some tips for traveling to Vietnam as a first-time traveler.
Visa Requirements
Most travelers will require a visa, you can apply for a visa online through Vietnam’s e-visa system. Be sure to check what the requirements are based on your nationality, prior to travel.
Currency & Payment
The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Cash is usually preferred for markets and rural areas. Be sure to carry smaller denominations, and use ATMs for a better conversion rate.
Local SIM & Internet
Purchase a local SIM card at the airport. Viettel and Mobifone have excellent coverage. I have been impressed with how fast the internet can be, and I was able to access it in remote areas.
Dress Modestly in Temples
In temples, dress modestly; cover shoulders and knees, especially in the presence of a monk, as a sign of respect.
Bargain Respectfully
When shopping in markets, you are expected to negotiate, but remember to be polite and smile.
Learn a Few Local Phrases
Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases, like “Xin Chào” (Hello!) and “Cảm ơn” (Thank you), will help build rapport with locals.
What to Expect in Vietnam?
If you are unsure what to expect when traveling to Vietnam, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Hospitality: Vietnamese locals are friendly, helpful, and genuinely curious people, especially when it comes to tourists.
Chaotic order: Cities, like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi for example, can seem chaotic at first with scooters ruling the streets and crossing the road is an art.
Variety: Expect a huge range of landscapes, including rice terraces, caves, beaches, and mountains.
Delicious food: Vietnamese food is fresh, tasty, and varied. Be sure to try street food, which is an experience in itself.
Cultural influences: The richness of Vietnam’s culture is defined by Buddhist, French colonial, and indigenous traditions blended together.
Whether it’s riding a motorbike through Hai Van Pass or sweating with an iced egg coffee in Hanoi, Vietnam, provides lasting memories that will outlive the trip. So think about it, pack your wishes, and book the adventure of a lifetime to Vietnam that is both exciting and life-changing.
If you would prefer a more structured, social way to travel, and you want to meet like-minded people as you explore, joining a reputable travel community, like Hikerwolf, will make your first adventure in Vietnam even better.
Wrapping It Up
If you’re planning your first trip to Vietnam, it could be quite daunting, but with a little preparation and knowledge, it should turn into an exciting, rewarding experience. This travel guide to Vietnam gives you a leg-up on your journey, from creating the perfect Vietnam itinerary 10 days (or relevant duration) to knowing what to expect in Vietnam as a first-timer.