10-day travel plan from saigon to hanoi

Day 1 – Saigon: City Introduction

Morning: Begin at the Reunification Palace, a historical landmark of Vietnam War, then visit Saigon Central Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral.

Afternoon: Learn about the local perspective on Vietnam War at the War Remnants Museum.

Evening: Stroll down Nguyen Hue Street and dine at a local restaurant.

Day 2 – Saigon: Cultural Highlights

Morning: Explore Ben Thanh Market, the biggest city marketplace, bustling with activity.

Afternoon: Visit the Museum of Vietnamese History and Ho Chi Minh City Museum for historical insights.

Evening: Catch a performance at Saigon Opera House and enjoy a late dinner nearby.

Day 3 – Cu Chi and Tay Ninh: History and Spirituality

Morning: Travel to Cu Chi Tunnels, an elaborate underground system used in the Vietnam War.

Afternoon: Proceed to Tay Ninh and visit the colourful Cao Dai Temple to witness a unique religious ceremony.

Evening: Return to Saigon and dine at a local eatery.

Day 4 – Saigon to Mekong Delta: Rural Vietnam

Morning: Head to the Mekong Delta, famous for its river life and floating markets.

Afternoon: Visit local orchards, sample tropical fruits, and interact with locals.

Evening: Return to Saigon and relax with a local Vietnamese dinner.

Day 5 – Saigon to Hoi An: Historic Town

Morning: Fly to Da Nang and transfer to Hoi An.

Afternoon: Walk through the ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Evening: Visit Hoi An Night Market and dine at a riverside restaurant.

Day 6 – Hoi An to Hue: Imperial Vietnam

Morning: Travel to Hue via Hai Van Pass, enjoying panoramic ocean views.

Afternoon: Explore the Imperial City of Hue, the country’s political capital during the Nguyen Dynasty.

Evening: Embark on a tranquil boat ride along the Perfume River followed by a local dinner.

Day 7 – Hue to Hanoi: Capital City

Morning: Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic temple in Hue.

Afternoon: Take a flight to Hanoi, Vietnam’s cultural capital.

Evening: Take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, visit Ngoc Son Temple, and enjoy a traditional Water Puppet Show.

Day 8 – Hanoi: City Exploration

Morning: Start with Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex and the Temple of Literature.

Afternoon: Discover Hanoi’s Old Quarter and taste some local street food.

Evening: Visit Hanoi Opera House and dine at a gourmet restaurant in the French Quarter.

Day 9 – Hanoi to Halong Bay: Natural Wonder

Morning: Travel to Halong Bay, renowned for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands.

Afternoon: Take a cruise around the bay, explore caves and enjoy sea kayaking.

Evening: Savour a seafood dinner on the cruise and spend the night on the bay.

Day 10 – Halong Bay to Hanoi: Farewell Day

Morning: Join a Tai Chi session on the cruise deck and enjoy brunch while sailing back to the harbor.

Afternoon: Return to Hanoi for some last-minute shopping in the Old Quarter.

Evening: Bid farewell to Vietnam with a celebratory dinner at a renowned Hanoi restaurant. Reflect on the journey through the country’s vibrant culture and rich history.