10 Days DE Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City Tour

An Engaging 10-Day Journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

This 10-day Vietnam tour covers the country’s highlights, starting in Hanoi and finishing in Ho Chi Minh City. At a price of around $1,824 per person, it offers an immersive look into Vietnam’s bustling cities, tranquil bays, and historic sites, with a mix of guided sightseeing, local interactions, and scenic cruising.

What we really appreciate are the thoughtfully curated experiences — like sailing on a traditional junk boat in Bai Tu Long Bay, a boat ride through the rice paddies of Ninh Binh, and visiting the Imperial City in Hue. These moments give you a genuine taste of Vietnam’s natural beauty and historical depth.

However, keep in mind that with a packed itinerary and long travel days, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy active touring and are comfortable with a fair amount of moving around. The tour is ideal if you want a rundown, rather than a slow-paced exploration.

If you’re after an authentic, well-structured introduction to Vietnam’s diverse regions, this trip offers excellent value — blending cultural sights, stunning vistas, and local flavor into one memorable package.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage of northern and southern Vietnam in 10 days.
• Includes scenic boat cruises and overnight stays in Bai Tu Long Bay, offering a peaceful escape.
• Rich cultural experiences like water puppet shows, imperial palaces, and village visits.
• Comfortable transportation with private vehicles, trains, and flights included for efficiency.
• Balanced mix of activities — sightseeing, biking, boat rides, and free time.
• Suitable for active travelers who enjoy a busy schedule and diverse experiences.

Exploring the Highlights of the 10 Days DE Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City Tour

Starting in Hanoi: A Vibrant Capital

Your adventure begins in the heart of Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi. The first day sets the tone with a gentle introduction — a cyclo ride through the Old Town leads you into bustling streets filled with motorbikes, markets, and street-side cafes. Staying in the city center, you’re close to the action. The inclusion of a water puppet show in the evening offers a charming glimpse into traditional Vietnamese arts, often lauded for its playful storytelling and puppetry mastery.

On the second day, you’ll explore landmarks like the Temple of Phu Tay Ho, a lakeside retreat, and The Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s ancient university dedicated to Confucius. These sites give you a window into Hanoi’s spiritual and educational roots. We loved the opportunity to see the city from different angles, balancing history with local daily life.

Sailing Bai Tu Long Bay: A Quiet Escape

Day three is a true highlight — transferring from Hanoi to Bai Tu Long Bay for a cruise aboard a traditional junk boat. Unlike the crowded Ha Long Bay, Bai Tu Long is less touristy, making it a more peaceful experience. Expect to glide past towering limestone karsts, hidden caves, and tranquil waters. Spending the night on the boat allows you to soak in the sights under the stars, which many travelers find deeply relaxing after busy city days.

The trip provides a fantastic balance: scenic views, comfortable boat accommodations, and the chance to disconnect from the hustle. We loved how the cruise felt intimate and authentic, especially if you enjoy natural beauty and quiet reflection.

Ninh Binh: Vietnam’s Lesser-Known Charm

After the bay, the journey continues to Ninh Binh, often called the “Ha Long Bay on land” because of its spectacular limestone formations rising from lush rice paddies. Here, you’ll take a boat ride in Tam Coc, drifting past caves and water courses that mirror the bay’s scenery. Cycling through the countryside offers a close-up look at rural life, with rice fields, water buffalo, and traditional villages.

Visiting the Bich Dong Pagoda, built into caves and hillsides, adds a spiritual touch to the day. The overnight stay in Ninh Binh is charming — a chance to experience local hospitality in a cozy inn.

Hue: Imperial Grandeur and Local Life

From Ninh Binh, a night train whisks you to Hue, the former imperial capital. Here, we appreciated exploring the Imperial City, a sprawling complex of palaces, temples, and royal tombs. Walking through the ancient citadel, you feel transported back in time. The Thien Mu Pagoda, perched on the riverbank, offers tranquil views and a chance to appreciate Vietnam’s spiritual traditions.

A boat ride on the Perfume River and a visit to Emperor Tu Duc’s tomb provide insight into the country’s monarchy and artistry. The day also includes a visit to a local village, where you can meet residents and learn about everyday life — an authentic touch that many travelers value.

Hoi An: A Town Frozen in Time

Next, you’ll leave Hue via the Spectacular Nudes Pass — a scenic route that offers breathtaking views of mountains and coastline. Arriving in Hoi An, the UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and vibrant markets, is a high point.

Staying in Hoi An allows you to explore at your leisure. The visit to Phuc Thanh Pagoda — one of the oldest in the region — adds cultural depth to your stay. The town’s relaxed atmosphere, combined with its historical charm, makes it a favorite among many travelers.

Moving South: From Danang to Ho Chi Minh City

On day eight, you transfer from Hoi An to Danang for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City. This quick flight saves travel time and maximizes your sightseeing. In Ho Chi Minh, the tour covers key sites like the Reunification Palace, the War Remnants Museum, and lively markets. The city’s mix of colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers makes for a fascinating contrast.

The final day is a straightforward transfer to the airport, closing out your whirlwind tour.

Transportation and Accommodation: What You Should Expect

Throughout this tour, transportation includes private vehicles for city transfers and sightseeing, a night train between Ninh Binh and Hue, and a domestic flight from Danang to Saigon. These choices balance comfort with efficiency, enabling you to cover long distances without feeling rushed.

Accommodations are included at each stop, typically in well-located hotels or inns. While the details aren’t specified, the emphasis on comfort and location suggests a good standard suitable for most travelers.

Activities and Sightseeing: Engaging and Varied

The tour covers a mix of activities, such as temple visits, boat rides, biking, and cultural shows. Many reviews highlight the beautiful scenery — especially the scenic cruises and rice paddies — as standout moments. The inclusion of local village visits and dinners with families adds an authentic touch that travelers find memorable.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?

Priced at $1,824, this tour offers a lot for the cost — including transfers, accommodations, activities, and some meals. The inclusion of flights and train rides reduces the hassle of planning logistics independently, making it a good value for an all-in-one package.

While this is a private tour, the price reflects the convenience and curated experience, especially for those wanting a rundown rather than a DIY adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and comfort. It’s ideal if you prefer guided experiences and don’t mind a busy schedule. Active travelers will appreciate the bike rides, boat trips, and city walks, while history buffs will enjoy the imperial sites and villages.

Those looking for a more relaxed pace or a focus on just one region might prefer to customize their trip instead. But if your goal is to see as much of Vietnam as possible in a short time, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

This 10-day tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and cultures, perfect for first-timers or travelers wanting a structured overview. The combination of scenic cruises, historical sites, and authentic local experiences ensures you’ll return with plenty of stories and memories.

The seamless transportation, comfortable accommodations, and curated sights make it a good value, especially considering the logistics involved in traveling across such a big country. While it’s a demanding schedule, the variety and depth of experiences make it worthwhile for those eager to see the highlights with expert guidance.

If you’re after a comprehensive, engaging, and scenic introduction to Vietnam, this tour delivers. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value authentic moments, stunning views, and efficient planning — all wrapped into an adventure that takes you from Vietnam’s bustling north to its lively south.

FAQ

How long is the trip?
The tour lasts approximately 10 days, with a packed schedule that covers many locations and activities.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers accommodations, private transportation, some meals (breakfasts and a few lunches/dinners), all activities listed in the itinerary, and internal flights/train tickets.

Are flights and train rides included?
Yes, the tour includes an overnight train from Ninh Binh to Hue and a domestic flight from Danang to Ho Chi Minh City.

What activities are part of the tour?
You’ll experience temple visits, boat cruises, bike rides, cultural shows, and visits to royal tombs and villages.

Is the tour suitable for active travelers?
Yes, it involves some walking, biking, and boat rides, so it’s best for those comfortable with physical activity and busy days.

Are accommodations comfortable?
While specific details aren’t provided, the tour’s focus on quality suggests hotels or inns appropriate for most travelers.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a private, guided tour, so you might be able to discuss adjustments with the provider beforehand.

Is food included?
Breakfasts are included every day, plus a couple of lunches. Other meals may need to be purchased separately.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, sun protection, and a camera for capturing the stunning scenery.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Most of the activities are suitable for active travelers and older children, but it depends on your family’s pace and interests.

This tour stands out as a well-balanced, engaging way to see Vietnam’s highlights, blending natural beauty with cultural depth. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it offers genuine moments and unforgettable sights that will stay with you long after you leave.