10-Days Vietnam: Culinary Trails, Lantern Nights & Legend Hunts

Curated by Jodi at Wandering Company

Itinerary

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable 10-day journey through Vietnam, blending iconic highlights, authentic local flavor, and the perfect balance of group exploration and free time. Start in the vibrant heart of Hanoi, cruise the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, soak in ancient charm in Hoi An, and discover the energetic pulse of Ho Chi Minh City—all while sampling mouthwatering cuisine and connecting with incredible people.

Your wanderings are never one-size-fits-all: This itinerary is simply a foundation—every activity, pace, and destination can be tailored to reflect your interests, travel style, and dream “wow” moments. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, solo adventurer, or looking for group camaraderie with space to roam, we’ll make every day uniquely yours.

Let’s craft the Vietnam experience you’ve always imagined. Ready to personalize?

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

  • Activity: Transfer from Noi Bai Airport; evening stroll and street food tour in the Old Quarter, try pho and egg coffee.
  • Accommodation: Hong Ngoc Dynastie Hotel & Spa (4*)
    • Estimated cost: ~$70/night (double room with breakfast)

Day 2: Hanoi Culture & History

  • Morning: Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Presidential Palace.
  • Afternoon: Explore Temple of Literature & Vietnam Fine Arts Museum.
  • Evening: Water Puppet Show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.

Day 3: Hanoi – Day Trip to Ninh Binh

  • Activity: Day excursion to Tam Coc or Trang An (rice paddies, boat ride), Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
  • Evening: Return to Hanoi.

Day 4: Halong Bay Overnight Cruise

  • Morning: Travel to Halong Bay (3 hours).
  • Activity: Board overnight cruise (kayaking, caves, cooking demo).
  • Accommodation: V’Spirit Classic Cruise or similar
    • Estimated cost: ~$130/night per cabin (includes meals, activities—some group discounts available)

Day 5: Halong Bay to Hanoi to Hoi An (via Danang)

  • Morning: Continue cruise; brunch onboard.
  • Afternoon: Shuttle to Hanoi airport, fly to Danang, transfer to Hoi An.
  • Evening: Free time to explore Hoi An Ancient Town.
  • Accommodation: Little Riverside Hoi An – A Luxury Hotel & Spa (4*)
    • Estimated cost: ~$80/night (deluxe room, breakfast)

Day 6: Hoi An Cultural Immersion

  • Morning: Hoi An market tour and cooking class.
  • Afternoon: Bicycle ride through rice fields to An Bang beach.
  • Evening: Lantern-lit Old Town stroll, try Cau Lau noodles.

Day 7: Hoi An – Day Trip to My Son Sanctuary or Ba Na Hills

  • Option 1: Visit UNESCO My Son Sanctuary (Cham ruins, local guide).
  • Option 2: Ba Na Hills cable car, Golden Bridge.
  • Evening: Free at leisure.

Day 8: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

  • Morning: Flight from Danang to Ho Chi Minh City.
  • Afternoon: City orientation—War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office.
  • Evening: Dinner on Saigon River cruise or at a rooftop restaurant.
  • Accommodation: Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint (4*)
    • Estimated cost: ~$85/night (superior double with breakfast)
    • Supplier: Expedia TAAP, Bedsonline, Delta Vacations.

Day 9: Mekong Delta Excursion

  • All Day: Group day trip to the Mekong Delta (floating markets, cycling, lunch at a local home).
  • Evening: Return to Ho Chi Minh City; explore Bui Vien Walking Street nightlife.

Day 10: Departure or Cu Chi Tunnels/Local Food Tour

  • Morning: Optional half-day at Cu Chi Tunnels or last-minute shopping at Ben Thanh Market.
  • Transfer: Depart to airport for flights home.

Destination Guides

Hanoi
Ho Chi Minh

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