Vietnam: 10-Day Itinerary, Places to Visit, Renting a Car, Driving Tips, and Advice

Vietnam, a land of breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and vibrant culture, offers an unforgettable travel experience. From the lush rice terraces of Sapa to the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, and the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, this Southeast Asian gem caters to every kind of traveler. This guide provides a detailed 10-day itinerary, must-visit locations, car rental tips, driving advice, and general travel tips for a seamless Vietnamese adventure.

Why Visit Vietnam?

Diverse Landscapes: Stunning mountains, beaches, and deltas.
Rich Culture: A blend of ancient traditions and modern influences.
Affordable Travel: Great value for food, accommodations, and transportation.

10-Day Itinerary for Vietnam

Day 1-2: Hanoi – The Capital City

Places to Visit:
- Hoan Kiem Lake: A serene spot in the city’s heart.
- Old Quarter: Wander through narrow streets packed with shops and street food vendors.
- Temple of Literature: Vietnam’s first national university.
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Pay respects to the nation’s leader.
Activities:
- Try Vietnamese egg coffee at a local café.
- Enjoy a water puppet show.
Suggested Hotel: La Siesta Hotel & Spa (mid-range).

Day 3-4: Ha Long Bay

Places to Visit:
- Cruise the Bay: Explore limestone karsts and islands.
- Sung Sot Cave: A massive and awe-inspiring cave.
- Ti Top Island: Known for its panoramic views.
Activities:
- Kayaking through emerald waters.
- Visit floating fishing villages.
Suggested Accommodation: Stay on an overnight cruise.

Day 5-6: Hoi An – The Ancient Town

Places to Visit:
- Japanese Covered Bridge: A symbol of Hoi An’s charm.
- Hoi An Lantern Market: A vibrant evening experience.
- An Bang Beach: Relax by the coast.
Activities:
- Take a Vietnamese cooking class.
- Cycle through rice paddies.
Suggested Hotel: Little Riverside Hoi An.

Day 7: Da Nang

Places to Visit:
- Marble Mountains: A cluster of limestone and marble hills.
- Golden Bridge: A stunning architectural feat.
- My Khe Beach: Perfect for relaxation.
Activities:
- Try Mi Quang, a famous noodle dish.
Suggested Hotel: Four Points by Sheraton Da Nang.

Day 8-9: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Places to Visit:
- War Remnants Museum: Insightful and sobering exhibits.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon: A French colonial-era landmark.
- Ben Thanh Market: Shop for souvenirs.
Activities:
- Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Saigon River.
- Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, a historic war site.
Suggested Hotel: Fusion Suites Saigon.

Day 10: Mekong Delta

Places to Visit:
- Cai Rang Floating Market: Experience local life on the water.
- Fruit Orchards: Sample fresh tropical fruits.
Activities:
- Take a boat ride through the lush waterways.
Suggested Hotel: Homestay in a Mekong Delta village.

Renting a Car in Vietnam

Should You Rent a Car?

Pros: Flexibility to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Cons: Traffic in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can be chaotic.

Rental Details:

Cost: $40–$70 per day, including insurance.
Requirements:
- International Driving Permit (IDP) is mandatory.
- Passport and valid driving license.
Top Rental Agencies: Avis, Hertz, and Localrent.

Important Driving Tips in Vietnam

Drive on the Right: Vietnam follows the right-hand driving system.
Traffic Conditions: Expect busy streets, especially in major cities.
Speed Limits:
- Urban areas: 50 km/h.
- Highways: 80–100 km/h.
Tolls: Major highways often have tolls, so keep small bills handy.
Parking: Limited in cities; opt for designated parking areas.

Caution: Vietnamese roads are shared with motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians. Drive cautiously and stay alert.

General Travel Advice

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Spring (March to May): Mild weather and fewer tourists.
Autumn (September to November): Cool and dry, ideal for outdoor activities.
Avoid: Monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rains.

Cultural Tips

Respect local customs, especially in temples.
Remove shoes before entering homes or sacred places.
Learn a few Vietnamese phrases like “Xin chào” (hello) and “Cảm ơn” (thank you).

Currency and Costs

Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND).
Daily Budget:
- Budget traveler: $25–$40.
- Mid-range traveler: $60–$100.
- Luxury traveler: $150+.

Popular Foods to Try

Pho: Traditional noodle soup.
Banh Mi: Vietnamese baguette sandwich.
Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried with shrimp or pork fillings.
Bun Cha: Grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles.
Egg Coffee: A Hanoi specialty.

Where to Eat

Street food stalls in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
Fine dining options in Ho Chi Minh City like Secret Garden.

Cautions for First-Time Visitors

Street Vendors: Be cautious of overcharging; always negotiate prices.
Water Safety: Avoid drinking tap water; opt for bottled water.
Scams: Common in tourist-heavy areas. Stick to licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Grab.
Traffic: Be extra vigilant when crossing streets due to unpredictable vehicles.
Visa Requirements: Check visa policies for your nationality; e-visas are available for many countries.

Summary: An Enriching Vietnamese Adventure

Vietnam’s diversity in culture, landscapes, and culinary delights make it a dream destination for travelers. Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of Hanoi, cruising Ha Long Bay, or relaxing in the ancient charm of Hoi An, every day offers something new.

With proper planning and an open mind, Vietnam promises a journey that’s both enriching and unforgettable. Follow this guide to make the most of your trip and immerse yourself in the beauty of this Southeast Asian treasure.