Vietnam 10-Day Itinerary: Classic Highlights with New 2026 Transport Routes

As of 2026, travelers from 45 countries—including most of Europe, the UK, Japan, South Korea, and several ASEAN nations—can enter Vietnam without a visa for stays ranging from 15 to 45 days, depending on nationality. For other nationalities, Vietnam’s e-visa system remains straightforward: apply online for a single-entry e-visa ($25 USD), with approval typically issued within three working days. The official e-visa portal (immigration.gov.vn) is the only recommended site; scams remain an issue on unofficial sites.

Most international visitors land at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s busiest gateway. The airport’s immigration counters are clearly marked, and lines for e-visa holders and visa-free travelers are separate from visa-on-arrival processing. Arrivals typically clear immigration and customs within 30–60 minutes, though peak hours (late morning and evening) can see longer waits. Luggage carousels and currency exchange counters are located just past customs, and ATMs accepting international cards are available in both arrival halls.

For mobile connectivity, airport kiosks sell physical SIM cards and eSIM activation codes. Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone all offer tourist packages—expect to pay $5–10 for 10GB of data valid for 10 days. Staff can assist with setup, and eSIM QR codes are issued on the spot. Free airport Wi-Fi is available, but a local SIM is more reliable for ride-hailing apps and maps once you exit the terminal.

In 2026, Vietnam’s domestic travel landscape has shifted with the launch of new direct flights connecting key cities. Vietjet now operates evening flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang and from Hue to Hanoi, each taking just over an hour and priced from $40–$45. These routes cut out lengthy layovers and reduce travel time by several hours compared to previous years, making it easier to fit more sightseeing into your itinerary. Schedules can vary, so it’s wise to check availability and book 2–3 weeks ahead, especially during peak months like March–May and September–November.

For travelers preferring rail, the Vietnam Railways app now allows seamless e-ticket booking and seat selection, including for the popular morning train from Da Nang to Hue. Night trains have seen upgrades in 2026, with cleaner cabins, improved bedding, and reliable Wi-Fi in soft sleeper cars. Prices range from $12–$25 for daytime routes, and night trains offer a comfortable alternative for longer distances, freeing up daytime hours for exploration. Booking ahead is recommended, as improved comfort has made these trains more popular with both locals and visitors.

These new transport options mean you can skip tedious transfers and maximize your time in each destination. Whether you’re chasing lantern-lit evenings in Hoi An or a quick hop to Hanoi’s Old Quarter, efficient travel is now easier than ever. Keep in mind that some new flight routes may have limited daily departures, so flexibility and advance planning are key.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport now offers visa-free entry for visitors from 45 countries in 2026, making Ho Chi Minh City a convenient starting point. Begin your exploration at Ben Thanh Market, where stalls open from 7am to 7pm and offer local snacks for under $5. The War Remnants Museum (open daily 7:30am–6pm, entry 40,000 VND) provides a sobering look at Vietnam’s history. For lunch or dinner, District 1’s street food vendors serve banh mi and pho for $3–$10, with most carts operating until late evening.

Day three takes you to the Mekong Delta on a guided tour (from $35), departing at 7:30am and returning by 6pm. The itinerary includes Cai Be floating market, where boats sell fruit and snacks, and visits to riverside villages. Afterward, choose between the overnight train or the new Vietjet direct flight to Da Nang (1hr 15min, from $45).

Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO site, is best explored on foot; tailor shops open from 9am to 9pm, and lanterns light up the streets nightly. Spend an afternoon at An Bang Beach or take a half-day tour to My Son Sanctuary ($30). In Da Nang, the Marble Mountains are open daily, and the Dragon Bridge hosts a fire show at 9pm on weekends.

Travel by morning train over the Hai Van Pass (2.5 hours, $12–25) to Hue, where the Imperial City (open 7am–5pm) and Thien Mu Pagoda are key stops. Dong Ba Market is ideal for sampling bun bo Hue and local coffee. In Hanoi, the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake are central, with the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum open Tuesday–Thursday and weekends, 7:30–10:30am. Train Street access is restricted; check local updates before visiting.

For the final days, choose between a Ha Long Bay overnight cruise (2 days/1 night, $120+, meals and transfers included, departs Hanoi 8am) or Ninh Binh, accessible by train (2 hours, $8). In Ninh Binh, eco-lodges range from $35–60 per night, and the Tam Coc boat ride offers scenic views, with Mua Cave nearby for hiking.

A 4-star hotel room in Ho Chi Minh City typically costs $50 per night in 2026, with reliable options like Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint and Alagon Zen Hotel in District 1. In Hoi An and Da Nang, mid-range hotels and boutique stays range from $35 to $70 per night, with well-reviewed choices such as Hoi An Sincerity Hotel or Sanouva Danang Hotel. For those heading to Ninh Binh, eco-lodges like Tam Coc Garden or Emeralda Resort offer double rooms for $35–60 per night, often including breakfast and scenic views of rice fields or limestone karsts.

Daily meal costs are manageable: local restaurants and street food stalls serve dishes like pho, banh mi, and com tam for $3–10. Organized street food tours in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, which include multiple tastings and a local guide, run $20–30 per person. These tours are a practical way to sample regional specialties and navigate the city’s food scene safely.

Transport and tours make up a significant part of the budget. The new direct Vietjet flights between major cities in 2026 are priced from $40–45 if booked a few weeks ahead, while comfortable trains (such as the scenic Hai Van Pass route to Hue) cost $12–25. A Ha Long Bay overnight cruise, including all meals and round-trip transfers from Hanoi, starts at $120 for a reputable operator; prices rise for more luxurious boats. Day tours to the Mekong Delta are available from $35, covering transport, a guide, and lunch. Travelers should factor in some cash for taxis or ride-hailing apps, which are widely used and inexpensive in urban areas.

Vietnam’s ATM network covers most cities and tourist areas, making it easy to withdraw cash as needed. However, it’s smart to carry a small reserve of USD or EUR, especially for emergencies or when visiting rural areas where card payments aren’t accepted. Currency exchange counters are found at airports and major hotels, but rates are usually better at local banks.

Weather in Vietnam varies sharply by region and season. The most comfortable months for travel are March to May and September to November, when temperatures are moderate and rainfall is low. From June to August, central and northern Vietnam face a higher risk of typhoons, which can disrupt flights, trains, and boat tours. If traveling during this period, monitor forecasts and allow flexibility in your itinerary.

When planning a Ha Long Bay cruise, research operators carefully. Prices for overnight cruises start around $120, but amenities and safety standards differ widely. Use recent online reviews and seek recommendations from other travelers or hotel staff. Reputable companies typically provide clear details about inclusions, safety procedures, and transfer arrangements from Hanoi.

Hanoi’s Train Street, famous for its close-up view of passing trains, has seen frequent closures and access restrictions in recent years due to safety concerns. Before visiting, check local updates or ask your hotel for the current situation. Some cafes along the street may offer limited access, but expect rules to change with little notice.