Planning your Vietnam trip: How many days should you spend?

Vietnam is a country of wonderful landscapes, rich history, and lively culture, offering everything from bustling cities to serene countryside. Planning your Vietnam trip can be overwhelming, especially when deciding how many days to stay. This guide will help you choose the perfect itinerary. For a smooth and well-organized journey, trust Hanoi Voyages to create your ideal travel experience!

Best time for a Vietnam trip: Choosing the perfect season to visit

Vietnam is a year-round destination with three distinct climate zones - Northern, Central, and Southern, each offering different weather conditions. The best time to visit Vietnam depends on the region you plan to explore and the experiences you’re seeking. Planning your Vietnam trip around the ideal season will enhance your travel experience.

Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam experiences four distinct seasons:

• Spring (March-April) offers mild temperatures (15 - 25°C) with fresh air and blooming flowers.

• Autumn (September-November) brings pleasant weather (20 - 28°C), dry conditions, and clear skies, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

• Summer (May-August) is hot and humid (28 - 38°C) with occasional heavy rains,

• Winter (December-January) is cold (8 - 18°C), with temperatures sometimes dropping below 0°C in mountainous areas.

👉 Best time to visit: Spring (February - April) and Autumn (September - November)

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate with two main seasons.

• The dry season (January - August): temperatures range from 22 - 35°C, with warm and sunny weather.

• The rainy season (September - December) sees frequent downpours and occasional typhoons, especially in October and November, which may disrupt travel plans. However, some areas remain pleasant despite the rain, offering cooler and misty conditions.

👉 Best time to visit: January - August

Southern Vietnam

Southern Vietnam has a warm, tropical climate with two distinct seasons:

• The dry season (November - April): temperatures range from 25 - 35°C, with sunny skies and little rain. This is the best time to visit Vietnam when the weather is calmest and most stable.

• The rainy season (May - October): brings short but intense tropical showers, leading to lush green landscapes. Despite the rainfall, temperatures remain warm, and the weather can still be enjoyable for various activities.

👉 Best time to visit: November - April

Planning a Vietnam trip: How many days should you stay?

Vietnam is a vast and diverse country, offering a rich blend of landscapes, cultures, and unique experiences. The ideal duration of your Vietnam trip depends on your travel pace and the regions you wish to explore. A shorter stay allows you to experience a glimpse of the country, while a longer journey provides a deeper immersion into its beauty and traditions.

A 10 to 15-day trip is perfect for a well-balanced experience, covering Vietnam’s three main regions. You can explore the north with Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, visit central Vietnam with Hue and Hoi An, and end in the south with Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. This itinerary offers a diverse perspective on Vietnam while keeping the pace comfortable.

For those with 15 to 20 days or more, a longer stay allows for a more immersive journey into Vietnam’s culture and hidden gems. You’ll have time to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations like the incredible mountains of Ha Giang, the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc, or the majestic caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. This extended trip is ideal for travelers looking to combine nature, cultural experiences, and relaxation.

Ultimately, the ideal length of your Vietnam trip depends on your travel expectations and preferred pace. A shorter stay offers a great introduction, while a longer journey allows you to embrace the wonders of Vietnam fully. Careful planning is key to making the most of your adventure in this beautiful country.

Exploring Vietnam: A 10 to 15 days travel plan

If you have 10 to 15 days, this itinerary covers Vietnam’s most iconic sites. Your Vietnam trip starts in Hanoi, where you can explore its historic Old Quarter and cultural landmarks. Next, embark on a stunning cruise through Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO-listed wonder.

In Central Vietnam, visit the imperial city of Hue and wander through the charming ancient streets of Hoi An. The journey continues to Southern Vietnam, where you’ll experience the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City and the peaceful landscapes of the Mekong Delta, home to floating markets and lush tropical scenery. This itinerary offers a perfect balance of culture, nature, and relaxation, making it one of the best options for a Vietnam travel experience.

10-15 day itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

• Day 2: Explore Hanoi’s cultural and historical highlights

• Day 3: Hanoi - Ninh Binh

• Day 4: Hanoi - Halong Bay

• Day 5: Halong Bay - Hue

• Day 6: Explore Hue’s imperial landmarks

• Day 7: Hue - Hoi An

• Day 8: Discover Hoi An

• Day 9: Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh

• Day 10: Ho Chi Minh - Can Tho

• Day 11: Can Tho - Phu Quoc

• Day 12 - 14: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Phu Quoc

• Day 15: Phu Quoc - Ho Chi Minh - Departure

You can explore our other tours for all the exciting experiences:

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A complete Vietnam trip: 15 to 20 days or more

For those with 15 to 20 days or longer, this Vietnam travel itinerary allows for a deeper exploration of the country’s landscapes and culture.

Start in Hanoi, where you’ll explore the city’s rich history before heading to Ninh Binh, often called the "Inland Ha Long Bay" known for its beautiful limestone karsts and rice fields. Continue your adventure with an unforgettable cruise in Ha Long Bay.

Next, visit Hue, where ancient temples and royal palaces await. Then, journey to Hoi An, experience its well-preserved UNESCO-listed heritage and visit My Son Sanctuary, a historical site of the ancient Cham civilization. Engage in unique cultural activities, such as traditional bamboo crafting workshops.

Heading south, explore the dynamic energy of Ho Chi Minh City and embark on a Mekong Delta adventure, discovering its floating markets and tropical orchards. End your Vietnam trip with pure relaxation on the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc, making for a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and leisure.

15-20+ day itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

• Day 2: An in-depth tour of Hanoi

• Day 3: Hanoi - Ninh Binh

• Day 4: Ninh Binh - Lao Cai

• Day 5: Lao Cai - Sapa

• Day 6: Sapa - Bac Ha

• Day 7: Bac Ha - Hanoi

• Day 8: Hanoi - Halong Bay

• Day 9: Halong Bay - Hue

• Day 10: Hue

• Day 11: Hue - Flavors And Well-being Day

• Day 12: Hue - Hoi An

• Day 13: Hoi An

• Day 14: Hoi An - My Son

• Day 15: Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh

• Day 16: Ho Chi Minh

• Day 17: Ho Chi Minh - Mekong Delta

• Day 18: Mekong Delta - Phu Quoc

• Day 19 - 20: Phu Quoc

• Day 21: Phu Quoc - Ho Chi Minh - Departure

For more details, you can read our blog: Vietnam tour 21 days Absolutely from Hanoi to Phu Quoc island

Vietnam trip guide: Essential tips for a smooth journey

Thorough preparation is essential when planning a Vietnam trip. Proper planning will allow you to explore Vietnam comfortably and experience its unique charm.

Check visa requirements

If you plan to visit Vietnam, check Vietnam's visa requirements in advance to ensure a smooth Vietnam trip. Many nationalities, including ASEAN countries, the UK, and the EU, can enter visa-free for 15 to 45 days. Most other travelers can apply for a 90-day e-visa online, which takes around 5 to 7 days to process. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and print your e-visa approval before traveling.

For a detailed guide on Vietnam visas, check out our Vietnam Visa Formalities

Choosing the right transportation

• Domestic flights: The fastest way to travel long distances, with major airlines connecting cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.

• Trains: A scenic and relaxing option, ideal for routes like Hanoi to Sapa or Hue.

• Buses & minibuses: Budget-friendly, with sleeper buses for long journeys and minibuses for shorter trips.

• Taxis & ride-Hailing Apps: Grab, Be and Xanh SM provide convenient and affordable motorbike and car rides in the city. You can also choose traditional taxis such as Mai Linh taxi, Sao Thủ Đô taxi, G7 taxi.

• Motorbike rental: Great for adventurous travelers, but traffic can be challenging. Ensure you have a valid license.

• Boats & cruises: Explore Ha Long Bay, the Mekong Delta, or Vietnam’s islands via ferries and speedboats will be an exciting experience.

Learn more: Transportation in Vietnam: Best options for getting around

Book accommodation in Vietnam

Vietnam offers accommodations for every budget, making it easy to find the perfect stay for your Vietnam trip. From affordable hostels to luxury resorts, there are plenty of options to suit different travel styles.

• Mid-range hotels ($20–50 per night) provide comfortable rooms, breakfast, and central locations, ideal for couples and families.

• For a premium experience, luxury resorts and boutique hotels ($80+ per night) in destinations like Phu Quoc and Da Nang offer world-class services, beachfront views, and spa facilities.

To get the best deals, you should book in advance, compare prices on booking platforms, and check guest reviews.

For more options, you can check our blog:

Top 9 excellent 4 star hotels in Vietnam

Top 10 five-star hotels in Vietnam

Getting a SIM card

Staying connected is essential for navigating, booking rides, and finding local recommendations. You can buy a Vietnamese SIM card at Tan Son Nhat Airport or from local mobile shops in the city. Popular providers like Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone offer affordable prepaid data plans. If you prefer not to switch SIMs, consider an eSIM for hassle-free connectivity.

For more details, you can read our blog SIM card in Vietnam: Everything you need to know

Respecting Vietnamese culture

• Follow temple etiquette by wearing modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Always remove your shoes before entering and avoid turning your back to Buddha statues when taking photos.

• Be mindful of public behavior by keeping public displays of affection minimal and speaking in a calm, moderate tone. Loud conversations or excessive gestures may be considered impolite.

• Greet people properly by offering a slight bow or a smile. In formal settings, handshakes are acceptable, but always use both hands when giving or receiving something.

• Avoid inappropriate gestures such as pointing with your index finger when talking and sticking chopsticks upright into a bowl of rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual.

• When taking photos of locals, especially in ethnic villages, always ask for permission as a sign of respect.

The ideal Vietnam trip length depends on your travel goals. A short visit covers key highlights, while a longer stay allows deeper cultural immersion. No matter how many days you have, smart planning ensures a memorable experience. For a smooth and unforgettable Vietnam trip, let Hanoi Voyages design a personalized itinerary, ensuring you experience the best of Vietnam. Contact us now!