12 days in Vietnam itinerary: Day-by-day recommendations

1. Option 1 for 12 days in Vietnam itinerary

This 12-day itinerary offers a balanced exploration of Vietnam’s northern and central regions.

1.1. Day 1 - 4: Hanoi

Begin your journey in Hanoi, where centuries-old heritage meets dynamic modern life. Don’t miss Hoan Kiem Lake with its iconic Turtle Tower, West Lake with the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda, and other highlights like Hoa Lo Prison, the Presidential Palace, the Temple of Literature, and the Thang Long Imperial Citadel.

Then, you can visit key museums such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and admire the elegance of French architecture at iconic landmarks like the Hanoi Opera House and St. Joseph's Cathedral.

In the evening, visitors dive into Hanoi’s buzzing nightlife at Ta Hien Street. A cyclo ride around the historic Hanoi Old Quarter offers a nostalgic look at local life, while a food tour introduces must-try dishes like pho, bun cha, egg coffee, and West Lake shrimp cakes. For souvenirs, you can shop at traditional markets or craft villages for specialties like West Lake lotus tea, Bat Trang pottery, and Van Phuc silk.

1.2. Day 5 - 6: Ha Long Bay

Visitors will spend two days of their “12 days in Vietnam itinerary” cruising through Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its surreal limestone karsts and emerald waters. Here, you can set sail on a scenic cruise and stop at wonders like Ti Top Island, Thien Cung Cave, Sung Sot Cave, and Dau Go Cave. Other highlights include the peaceful Bai Tu Long Bay and Cua Van Floating Village.

Adventurous travelers can kayak through sea caves, swim at secluded beaches, or hike to viewpoints for panoramic vistas. You can also indulge in fresh seafood, from grilled squid to steamed crabs and oysters.

Enhance your stay by booking a room at Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long, the only resort in Vietnam built entirely on the sea. Designed in elegant French style, it promises a luxurious and relaxing retreat.

Book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long

After your cruise, return to Hanoi and catch a flight to Hue on Day 7.

1.3. Day 7 - 10: Hue - Da Nang - Hoi An

Your “12 days in Vietnam itinerary” should include this Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An tour, connecting three culturally rich destinations in central Vietnam.

Hue

Next, visitors head to Hue, the former imperial capital, to explore the grandeur of the Complex of Hue Monuments. Must-try activities are walking through Hue Imperial City to visit the Noon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, and An Dinh Palace; and discovering royal tombs like Tu Duc Tomb, Khai Dinh Tomb, the Tomb of King Thieu Tri, and the Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang - each uniquely designed and set amidst serene natural backdrops.

You can also take a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, enjoy traditional court music, visit sacred sites like Thien Mu Pagoda and Tu Hieu Pagoda, and sample refined Hue specialties such as bun bo Hue and royal-style sweet soups. Don’t forget to shop for local delicacies at Dong Ba Market and visit other prominent attractions like Thuan An Beach and Incense Village.

Traveling to Da Nang, you will pass through the Hai Van Tunnel and enjoy breathtaking views of Tam Giang Lagoon and Lang Co Beach.

Da Nang

In your “12 days in Vietnam itinerary,” don’t miss Da Nang, one of Vietnam’s most livable cities. You can visit the Son Tra Peninsula and marvel at the towering Lady Buddha statue at Linh Ung Pagoda. Another highlight is the Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone peaks filled with ancient temples and grottoes.

Visitors should stroll along My Khe Beach, take in the sea breeze, and sample local dishes like mi Quang and pork rolls wrapped in rice paper. At night, cruising along the Han River and admiring the Dragon Bridge with its weekend fire-and-water show are recommended. Culture and history lovers will love visiting the bustling Han Market and the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

Hoi An

From Da Nang, it is an easy transfer to Hoi An, a UNESCO-listed town famous for its well-preserved architecture and peaceful vibe. Here, you can roam the lantern-lit streets lined with yellow-walled houses. Key sights in Hoi An Ancient Town include the Japanese Bridge, the Cantonese Assembly Hall, the Tan Ky Old House, and the Quan Cong Temple.

You can also taste Hoi An’s culinary staples like cao lau, chicken rice, and banh mi. Beach lovers can visit the Cham Islands and An Bang Beach for water activities and relaxation. Let’s end your stay with a visit to VinWonders Nam Hoi An, where thrilling rides meet cultural heritage. 

Book tickets of VinWonders Nam Hoi An

For accommodation, unwind at Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An, a luxurious beachside retreat with top-tier amenities and serene scenery.

Book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An

1.4. Day 11 - 12: Nha Trang

Travelers will conclude their “12 days in Vietnam itinerary” in the sunny city of Nha Trang. You can start with a visit to Long Son Pagoda or Po Nagar Cham Towers and marvel at the massive rock formations at Hon Chong Promontory.

The National Oceanographic Museum offers a fascinating look at marine life in the region. Then, you can join a boat tour to Monkey Island or Hon Mun Island - swim in crystal-clear waters, enjoy fresh seafood, or try snorkeling and diving among coral reefs. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a hot mineral mud bath on Hon Tam Island and try local dishes such as grilled pork rolls and crispy mini pancakes. 

Cap off your trip with a breathtaking cable car ride over Nha Trang Bay to Vinpearl Harbour, a vibrant complex with shopping, dining, spa, and entertainment. Nearby, VinWonders Nha Trang awaits with nearly 100 games and activities across six themed zones, along with jaw-dropping performances like the Tatashow and musical fountain shows.

Book tickets of VinWonders Nha Trang

To enjoy a seamless travel experience, consider staying at one of the upscale hotels or resorts of Vinpearl Nha Trang. These elegant properties offer stunning ocean views and exceptional amenities, promising guests a truly indulgent stay.

Book rooms in Vinpearl Nha Trang

2. Option 2 for Vietnam 12-day itinerary

This “12 days in Vietnam itinerary” seamlessly blends the cultural depth of Southern Vietnam with the refreshing charm of the Central Highlands.

2.1. Day 1 - 3: Ho Chi Minh City

Visitors start their journey in Ho Chi Minh City - Vietnam’s dynamic southern hub - to enjoy a blend of history, culture, and modern entertainment. For a deep dive into history, you can visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network symbolizing Vietnam’s wartime resilience. The War Remnants Museum offers eye-opening exhibits on the Vietnamese resistance war, while the Reunification Palace marks the moment of the country’s reunification.

Next, visitors will love to admire French colonial architecture at Notre Dame Cathedral and the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, explore local spirituality at Jade Emperor Pagoda, or appreciate Vietnamese art at the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts. Other must-do activities are taking a stroll through the colorful Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, unwinding at the tranquil Ho Chi Minh City Book Street, and visiting Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden. Let’s cap off your city visit at Grand Park, a modern amusement zone offering a peaceful artificial beach, kayaking, thrilling rides, seasonal festivals, and excellent food and shopping.

2.2. Day 4 - 7: Mekong Delta

From Ho Chi Minh City, your “12 days in Vietnam itinerary” continues in the Mekong Delta - a region of lush wetlands and riverine culture. In An Giang, you can explore Tra Su Cajuput Forest, visit the mystical Seven Mountains, and discover ancient Khmer-style pagodas. In Chau Doc, visitors pay homage at the Ba Chua Xu Temple on Sam Mountain and explore Tinh Bien Market. Over in Ha Tien, you can admire the Mac Cuu Mausoleum and enjoy sea views at Mui Nai.

Next, don’t miss a visit to Dong Thap’s Cao Lanh City, surrounded by lotus ponds and rice fields - a quintessential Mekong landscape. In Sa Dec, you can explore the century-old flower village and marvel at the giant leaves of the sacred Lotus Pagoda (Phuoc Kien Pagoda).

In Ben Tre, you can sample fresh tropical fruits in lush orchards and learn how coconut candy is made. Finally, conclude your Mekong Delta tours in Can Tho, home to the world-famous Cai Rang Floating Market - a vibrant display of local trade and life on the water.

Then, visitors will return to Ho Chi Minh City to catch their next leg of this “12 days in Vietnam itinerary” to the Central Highlands.

2.3. Day 8 - 9: Da Lat

Da Lat welcomes you with cool mountain air and pine-covered hills, ideal for relaxation. Visit Datanla Waterfalls, where cascades tumble from 20 meters high. A must-try activity is riding a cable car over pine forests from Robin Hill to Truc Lam Zen Monastery, offering a serene panorama of the city.

Then, you can stroll around Lam Vien Square and Xuan Huong Lake as the sun sets and admire the peaceful Tuyen Lam Lake surrounded by verdant forests. Adventure seekers can hike Lang Biang Mountain, Da Lat’s highest peak, to enjoy sweeping views and cultural exchanges with local ethnic communities.

Visitors can also wander through the City Flower Garden, boasting over 300 flower varieties, discover the romantic photo spots of the Valley of Love, and marvel at the mosaic-covered Linh Phuoc Pagoda.

A visit to Bao Dai’s Palace, local strawberry farms, and the Da Lat Railway Station adds unique charm to your journey. Finally, you should try local delicacies like avocado ice cream and grilled rice paper at Da Lat Market, visit the picturesque Elephant Waterfall, and Domaine de Marie Church with its French-inspired architecture.

2.4. Day 10 - 12: Nha Trang

Visitors will end their “12 days in Vietnam itinerary” by heading to the sun-kissed beaches of Nha Trang. Here, you can relax on the white sands of Bai Dai, dive into clear waters at Hon Mun Island, or explore the untouched beauty of Diep Son Island and Hon Ba Nature Reserve. You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, camping, and scuba diving in Nha Trang. 

Romantic people take a sunset cruise around Nha Trang Bay, while culture lovers admire the gothic beauty of Nha Trang Cathedral and visit the ancient Ponagar Cham Towers - some of the best-preserved Cham structures in Vietnam.

Looking for fun? Visitors should head to Hon Tre Island for the over-water cable car - the longest in Asia - leading to VinWonders Nha Trang, a modern amusement park with roller coasters, water slides, and live shows. Then, you can shop for souvenirs and sample street food at the bustling Dam Market, enjoy cool breezes along Tran Phu Street, or browse the night markets for last-minute treasures.

>>> More on: Vietnam itinerary: A complete guide for your journey from North to South

3. Option 3 for your 12 days in Vietnam

This "12 days in Vietnam itinerary" takes you across Vietnam’s three distinct regions: South, Central, and North.

3.1. Day 1 - 3: Phu Quoc Island

You will start your adventure on Phu Quoc, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful islands, famous for its untouched beaches, turquoise waters, and golden sunlight. Don’t miss sunbathing and swimming at Bai Dai Beach, Ong Lang Beach, Long Beach, Ganh Dau Beach, Starfish Beach, and Sao Beach. Then, you can go island-hopping by boat to Fingernail Island and May Rut Island for snorkeling, water sports, and mesmerizing sunsets.

Some of the best activities are visiting Ham Ninh Fishing Village to sample fresh seafood and learn about local fishing life and exploring Phu Quoc Prison, Ho Quoc Temple, and several traditional craft villages, such as a sim wine workshop, pearl farms, fish sauce factories, and pepper gardens.

Continue the fun at Grand World Phu Quoc, where you will find unique architecture, vibrant nightlife, dining, shopping, bars, and shows. Highlights include Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, the largest open zoo in Vietnam, and VinWonders Phu Quoc, a theme park with six zones featuring water parks, roller coasters, aquariums, and impressive live performances.

Book tickets of VinWonders Phu Quoc

Book tickets of Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc

Book tickets of Grand World Phu Quoc

If you are after luxury, consider staying at one of the high-end resorts and hotels in Vinpearl Phu Quoc, known for their scenic views and full-service amenities like pools, spas, golf courses, and fine dining.

Book rooms in Vinpearl Phu Quoc

3.2. Day 4 - 6: Ho Chi Minh City

From Phu Quoc, to continue your "12 days in Vietnam itinerary," head to Ho Chi Minh City. Here, visitors explore major landmarks such as the Cu Chi Tunnels, Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum, and Saigon Central Post Office; take a city tour that includes iconic stops; or sample local favorites like com tam, hu tieu, and Vietnamese iced coffee.

At night, you enjoy the energy of Bui Vien Street with its lively bars or stroll Nguyen Hue Street for public performances. Culture lovers can discover the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Chinese-Vietnamese community at Thien Hau Pagoda and taste Chinese-inspired cuisine in Cho Lon.

Checking out modern city icons like Bitexco Tower and Landmark 81, taking a scenic Saigon River cruise, and visiting Nha Rong Wharf are recommended activities. Don’t forget to explore the many bustling markets, such as Ben Thanh Market, An Dong Market, and Ba Hoa Market, for souvenirs and local culture.

3.3. Day 7 - 9: Hoi An - Da Nang 

Next, you will fly to Central Vietnam to uncover the charm of Hoi An and Da Nang in your "12 days in Vietnam itinerary."

Hoi An:

In Hoi An, visitors stroll the Ancient Town, visit centuries-old homes and temples, and relax at Hoi An cafes with scenic views. At night, you can sail the Hoai River, release lanterns, and enjoy the magical atmosphere.

Then, you can explore traditional villages like Thanh Ha Pottery Village, Tra Que Vegetable Village, Hoi An Silk Village, and Hoi An Coconut Village; take a day trip to Hoi An Market to see ancient Cham temples; or visit Hoi An Market for local dishes.

Da Nang:

In Da Nang, besides the Marble Mountains, you can discover Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village, Non Nuoc Pagoda, and unwind on Non Nuoc Beach. On Son Tra Peninsula, you can see Linh Ung Pagoda, then continue to Ban Co Peak to enjoy panoramic views and cool mountain air.

Finally, enjoy Da Nang’s street food at Con Market, shop at colorful Da Nang night markets, and visit iconic bridges like Dragon Bridge, Han River Bridge, and Love Bridge.

3.4. Day 10 - 11: Ninh Binh

Visitors continue their "12 days in Vietnam itinerary" in Ninh Binh, where majestic landscapes meet ancient heritage. You can start with the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which served as Vietnam’s royal seat from 968 to 1010. Other must-dos are taking a boat ride through the limestone caves of Tam Coc, visiting the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda, and climbing nearly 500 steps to Mua Cave Viewpoint on Ngoa Long Mountain for a breathtaking view of the countryside. 

Another must-see is Trang An, known for its serene boat journeys through emerald waters and sacred cave temples. Nature enthusiasts can explore Cuc Phuong National Park, Thung Nham Bird Park, or Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve. Meanwhile, those interested in religion and architecture should visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, Thai Vi Temple, and Phat Diem Cathedral. For a rural touch, bike through peaceful villages and savor regional specialties like goat meat and crispy rice.

After exploring Ninh Binh, travelers head back to Hanoi to discover the city on the final day of the tour before catching their return flight.

3.5. Day 12: Hanoi

You will wrap up your "12 days in Vietnam itinerary" in Hanoi, a must-visit in Vietnam travel. If you only have one day, focus on key attractions: Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, Hoa Lo Prison, Temple of Literature, Thang Long Citadel, One Pillar Pagoda, and Dong Xuan Market.

Optional experiences include watching the flag-raising ceremony at Ba Dinh Square and joining a street food tour with classics like pho, egg coffee, cha ca La Vong, pho cuon, and bia hoi. End your trip soaking in the energy of Ta Hien Street, Hanoi’s iconic beer corner.

>>> Discover: Things to do in Vietnam: 10 MUST-HAVE experiences on a First Visit

*Note: This itinerary is for reference and can be adjusted according to your travel pace and preferences.

If you want to build a comprehensive "12 days in Vietnam itinerary," be sure to include a mix of stunning beaches, cultural landmarks, and bustling cities. With the right plan, you will experience the country’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality from the southern islands to the northern mountains.