10 days in Vietnam Luxury Itinerary: A Travel Guide
Vietnam is a vibrant and captivating destination, offering something for every style of traveller. From chaotic cities brimming with life to some of the world’s most breathtaking natural landscapes.
You can be uncovering ancient temples hidden deep in the jungle one day and unwinding on sun-kissed beaches the next.
For foodies, Vietnam is a paradise. Embark on a culinary adventure that will delight your senses and introduce you to authentic dishes you won’t find elsewhere.
We were limited on time and I did worry if 10 days would be enough time to explore Vietnam. But fear not, this fun-filled 10 days in Vietnam luxury itinerary gives you a real taste of the country.
Day 1 – Hanoi
After a long flight, we finally checked into our hotel to unwind and recharge for a few hours. Refreshed and ready, we kicked off our adventure with an unforgettable street food tour.
This was the perfect way to dive straight into exploring the city, with a local expert revealing hidden gems along the way.
We began at a traditional restaurant, where we indulged in a variety of local specialties—everything from the flavourful pho rolls to crispy shrimp cakes.
We then headed out into chaos of the city streets, dodging motorbikes whizzing by, as we made our way to pick up the iconic Banh Mi.
With our Banh Mi in hand, we made our way to the iconic Train Street via taxi. We pulled up some tiny stools alongside the track and picked up a couple of drinks to enjoy with our food. The next thing we know, the horns were blaring as a train approached. The train flies past the small restaurants lining the street – it’s exhilarating but terrifying at the same time.
We then had to try a twist on Vietnam’s most famous dish, pho. They have a dry version with special sauce, it was super refreshing and so filling.
We finished the tour in the terrace of a small restaurant overlooking a street with live music, we would never have found this place ourselves. We tried a local coffee (bad idea at night, but it’s SO good) and chatted to our guide for a while.
Make sure you come to this tour with a big appetite!
Where to stay in Hanoi? We only had one night in the city, so we chose Soleil Boutique Hotel. It’s clean, stylish and in a great walkable location.
10 days in vietnam luxury itinerary
Day 2 – Hoi An
After a delicious breakfast of noodle soup, fresh fruits and strong Vietnamese coffee, we were wide awake and ready for adventure. We bid farewell to Hanoi and set off for the darling town of Hoi An, ready to experience its unique charm and rich history.
We hopped on a quick internal flight to Hoi An, with several departures throughout the day making it a convenient choice. However, if you have extra time in your itinerary, traveling by train or luxury bus is another option.
Hoi An is an ancient town nestled along the peaceful Hoai River, famous for its stunning architecture and lantern-lit streets. After checking into our hotel, we couldn’t wait to dive into the heart of the old town and experience a sunset boat ride along the river.
A traditional boat ride is the perfect way to soak in the town’s unique atmosphere, especially during the Lantern Festival.
It was such a beautiful view with everyone releasing paper lanterns into the water, creating a mesmerising display of lights and reflection. Don’t worry, I did notice that the lanterns were collected afterwards to protect the river from any pollution.
After the boat ride, we wandered through the historic streets, letting the town’s timeless beauty guide us. We found a local restaurant, where we enjoyed a relaxed dinner, savouring the flavours of Hoi An.
Day 3 – Hoi An
Just outside of Hoi An, you can take an unforgettable basket boat ride through the lush coconut forest. We took a Grab to the meeting point, where we were ready to begin our journey through the countryside.
Gliding through the water in these basket boats with a local guide was such a fun experience. As we paddled along, we took in the gorgeous views and enjoyed this relaxing time.
Then things took a turn haha! We suddenly found ourselves in a main river area, surrounded by every single other basket boat. You could pay extra to have a guide spin their baskets around for fun—of course, I couldn’t resist joining in! I could not stop laughing, such a fun time.
The chaos didn’t stop there, there were floating karaoke stands blaring music, offering us drinks and the whole area was incredibly lively and totally not what we expected.
We didn’t stay too long, heading back to the quieter areas to enjoy the tranquility before our boat ride ended.
We made our way back into the old town, stopping to admire the picturesque Ba Mu Temple gates as we meandered around. We grabbed some delicious street food for a quick lunch, before our next activity of the day.
The highlight of the afternoon? Vietnamese Coffee Culture and Coffee Making Class. If you’re a coffee lover, I can’t recommend this enough! We had such a fantastic time learning the art of Vietnamese coffee making, everything from crop to cup.
We got to try our hands at making the classics—salt coffee (my absolute fav), egg coffee and coconut coffee. Each one was a unique twist on the traditional brew, and it was incredible to see the care and skill. This class was such a delightful and immersive way to spend an afternoon, a must for anyone wanting to fully experience the rich coffee culture of Vietnam! We also came away with a gift, a Phin – which locals use brew their coffee.
Day 3 – My Son Sanctuary and Hoi An
Not too far from Hoi An lies the captivating My Son Sanctuary. Ancient temples hidden in a lush valley, surrounded by jungle covered mountains. To experience it at its best, we set an early alarm for a 5:30am pick-up, taking around a 40km drive from Hoi An to My Son.
Once we arrived, we were one of the first small groups to explore the site, which gave us the rare opportunity to wander through the ruins in near solitude. I can’t advise enough how important it is to get there early. Not only do you beat the crowds that pour in later, but you also avoid the midday heat, making it a much more enjoyable experience.
Walking through My Son feels like stepping back in time, immersing yourself in a lost world of ancient history. Our local guide was great, offering fascinating insights and stories that really brought the site to life.
Our tour included a local breakfast and coffee – this was very welcomed after walking around so much. We arrived back at our hotel around 10:30am having already had a total adventure.
After the morning’s activity, we decided to unwind with a relaxing afternoon on the beach. We kicked back in hammocks, sipping cocktails and soaking in the tranquil vibe of the palm-fringed beach. Pure bliss!
For dinner, we went in search of the Banh Mi store made famous by Anthony Bourdain. We lined up and got a selection of fillings to try – it was great, but honestly? My Banh Mi in Hanoi was better.
We had a couple of drinks and soaked in the atmosphere of the town on our final evening here.
Where to stay in Hoi An? We opted for the Wyndham Hoi An Royal Beachfront Resort as our base during our three night stay and it was the perfect choice. This beachfront property is stunning, offering all the luxe touches you could hope for. With two pools to choose from, spacious rooms and exceptional service, it was the ideal place to relax after a day of exploring.
Located only a quick ride from the old town means you get the best of both worlds. You can easily explore the charm and history of Hoi An’s ancient town while having a peaceful retreat by the coast, away from the hustle and bustle.
10 days in vietnam luxury itinerary
Day 4 – Hue
We hopped in a car and made our way to our next destination of Hue. The journey was a smooth and scenic drive, stopping off at some beautiful viewpoints along the way.
Hue, the former Imperial capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty, is a city rich in history, culture, and flavour. From magnificent temples to mouthwatering cuisine, it offers a blend of tradition and modern charm.
The place we wanted to visit most was the ancient citadel. It’s more than just a destination, it’s a journey into the past. As you walk around the incredibly ornate buildings, you can hear echoes of emperors and stories of dynasties still linger in the air.
With its array of ornate gates, lush gardens and grand tombs the Imperial City is a photography lovers dream. Capturing the rich tapestry of Vietnam’s history from different angles and finding beauty in every corner is a must. I’d recommend taking a tour, it allows you to learn more about this magical destination and find hidden spots away from the crowds.
Hue is renowned for its incredible food, and we couldn’t leave without sampling some of the royal cuisine. If you’re visiting, there are a few dishes you absolutely must try.
First up, Nem Lui, grilled pork on lemongrass sticks, bursting with flavour and a perfect balance of smokiness.
Next, Banh Khoai, a Vietnamese rice pancake often served with fresh herbs and dipping sauces.
And of course, Bun Bo Hue, the city’s signature dish – a beef noodle soup with a rich, spicy broth. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
Where to stay in Hue? Melia Vinpearl Hue was our choice, located in the heart of the city, offering breathtaking views of the Huong River and majestic Ngu Mountain. This luxury hotel is thoughtfully equipped with everything you’ll require for a comfortable stay. The rooftop pool overlooking the city is perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring.
10 days in vietnam luxury itinerary
Day 5 – Hanoi
We decided to break up our journey with an extra night in Hanoi, eager to revisit the city after our brief stay earlier in the trip.
We spent the day strolling through the city, popping into really cool cafes – the coffee culture in Vietnam is next level.
Taking in sights like the Hoan Kiem Lake and ended up back at Train Street during the day, as some of our group hadn’t visited yet.
For dinner, we found a tiny restaurant by the side of the road where we enjoyed BBQ and cold beers with friends. It was one of those perfect, simple moments that really capture the spirit of Hanoi – great food, good company and the energy of the city all around us.
Where to stay in Hanoi? Again, with only one night in the city, we chose Soleil Boutique Hotel. It’s clean, stylish and in a great walkable location.
10 days in vietnam luxury itinerary
Day 6 – Halong Bay
We set off this morning to Halong Bay to board our cruise for the night. We sailed with Erina Cruises for two days and one night. If you have a bit more time in your itinerary, you could opt for the two night trip, which takes you to the less visited parts of the bay. However, we found that one night was more than enough to experience the stunning beauty of this UNESCO-listed natural wonder.
By midday, we were onboard, enjoying a delicious lunch while cruising through the breathtaking limestone karsts. The mist hanging over the bay as we sailed through only added to the magical atmosphere, making it feel like we were gliding through a dream. The views were absolutely phenomenal and every turn seemed to unveil a new, awe-inspiring scene.
We checked into our rooms, which all had balconies and stunning bathtubs with huge windows to enjoy the views of the bay.
Our first stop was at the Tra Bau area, where we had the option to go kayaking or simply relax on the boat. We opted for the latter, taking full advantage of the hot tub on deck – especially since we had the entire area to ourselves. Soaking in the warm water while taking in the stunning views around us was pure bliss.
We spent a lovely afternoon on the boat, and as the sun began to set, we gathered for a cooking demonstration. It was a fun and interactive experience, where we learned how to make fresh spring rolls. The best part? We got to enjoy the spring rolls we made ourselves.
Dinner was a delightful buffet featuring an array of fresh seafood and classic Vietnamese dishes.
Day 7 – Halong Bay
We rose early this morning to head to the top deck for a peaceful Tai Chi session. As we sailed through the breathtaking natural wonder that is Halong Bay, the tranquil atmosphere made it the perfect setting to find our zen. The combination of gentle movements, stunning views and the early morning calm was an incredible way to start the day – one of those moments that stays with you long after.
We had an excursion on a rowing boat, gliding through the emerald waters to the dark and light caves. Truly a gorgeous way to spend the morning.
As the mist began to lift, the sun came out, bathing Halong Bay in golden light for the rest of our cruise. After a final delicious lunch on board, we made our way back to dry land, feeling incredibly grateful for the experience. This cruise was truly a magical way to explore Halong Bay, and it ended up being one of the highlights of our entire 10 days in Vietnam itinerary.
Who to sail Halong Bay with? We chose to sail with Erina Cruises and we were not disappointed. The boat exuded classic luxury, with spacious rooms that featured bathtubs offering insane views. The food was delicious and we thoroughly enjoyed all the activities available, from Tai Chi to the kayaking and cooking demonstrations. If you have the time, you coul extend your stay for an extra day – it would be the perfect way to immerse yourself even deeper in the beauty of Halong Bay!
10 days in vietnam luxury itinerary
Day 8 – Ninh Binh
From Halong Bay, we made our way to Ninh Binh, an area affectionately known as ‘Halong Bay on land.’ I know what you’re thinking, why visit right after Halong Bay? After spending much of our trip in bustling cities, we wanted to end our journey by immersing ourselves in nature. Ninh Binh is absolutely breathtaking, with towering limestone mountains emerging dramatically from lush rice paddies, while serene rivers wind through the landscape.
After checking into our hotel and settling in, we headed out to explore the area a little bit. Our first stop was the Instagram-famous Bich Dong Pagoda, nestled into the mountainside. The beauty of the place was truly captivating and it had such a calming atmosphere. It’s definitely worth visiting for more than just the aesthetics.
Day 9 – Ninh Binh
We were up early for an open-top jeep tour, which was the perfect way to immerse ourselves in the stunning natural beauty of the countryside. The journey took us along back roads, offering unique perspectives of the towering limestone cliffs, vast rice paddies and local farms. Along the way, we made several stops at ancient cultural sites, including one of the oldest temples in Vietnam, the Thai Vi Temple.
This experience was honestly a highlight of our trip, such a fun and memorable way to explore Ninh Binh. I highly recommend spending a morning on a jeep tour, it’s an unforgettable way to take in the landscape.
After lunch, we set off on a sampan boat trip through Tam Coc, gliding through stunning caves and soaking in the tranquility of the surrounding waterways.
It’s truly a serene and picturesque way to experience the area. Depending on what you’d like to see, you can choose between a boat ride around Tam Coc or Trang An.
The Trang An route is longer, making it a great option if you have more time and want to explore further. Since we had plans to hike up Mua Cave to Lying Dragon Mountain for sunset, we opted for the shorter route. Whilst it took less time, it was just as breathtaking, offering incredible views along the way.
We made our way to the start of the Mua Cave hike, running a bit behind schedule. Despite the heat, we had to power through the 500 steps to the top. I can confidently say, it was completely worth the effort – the views were absolutely breathtaking.
From the top, you can see all across Hoa Lu and it feels truly magical. Unfortunately, the sky was quite cloudy, so we didn’t get the dramatic sunset we were hoping for, but we still enjoyed spending some time at the top soaking in the scenery.
We zipped around Ninh Binh on a motorbike, but I would only recommend this if you’re an experienced rider, if not – this tour covers everything we saw and looks to be a great option.
Day 10 – Ninh Binh
On our final morning before heading to Hanoi to catch our flight home, we decided to soak up the last bit of sunshine and enjoy a relaxing pool day at our hotel. It was the perfect way to wind down after such an unforgettable trip – savouring more delicious food and feeling refreshed before our long journey home.
Where to stay in Ninh Binh? Tam Coc Garden Resort was probably my favourite hotel during our 10 day Vietnam itinerary. Surrounded by paddy fields and lush greenery, the pool offers stunning views. Each room boasts a beautiful bathroom and a private terrace with picturesque vistas. It’s the perfect blend of rustic charm with luxurious touches.
The resort’s location, just 5 km from Tam Coc Cave provides a secluded, peaceful atmosphere while still being close enough to all the local attractions. They also offer free bicycle rentals among other little extras.
I’d highly recommend this as the ideal base for exploring Ninh Binh.
We definitely packed a lot of activities and experiences into a 10 day Vietnam Luxury Itinerary, making this a perfect trip for first timers. You’re able to get a great insight into the country, specifically the Northern regions. I left wanting to return – there is still so much to explore!
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