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12 days in Vietnam itinerary

12 days in Vietnam itinerary: The ultimate north-to-south journey

08/09/2025 199 views

If you want to make a 12 days in Vietnam itinerary, don’t miss this guide! From the tranquil Mekong Delta to the vibrant streets of Hanoi, this itinerary offers a well-rounded journey through Vietnam.

1. How to make the most of 12 days in Vietnam?

If you love Vietnam travel and are planning a 12 days in Vietnam itinerary, it is recommended to visit up to 6 destinations, spending about 2 days in each. For those who prefer a slower pace, having fewer stops but with deeper exploration is more ideal. 

When making your Vietnam itinerary, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Prioritize major cities with strong transportation links such as Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. They offer international flights and also serve as convenient gateways to other regions via train, plane, or coach.
  • Group nearby destinations to reduce travel time. For example, clusters like Hanoi – Hai Phong – Quang Ninh in the North; Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An or Nha Trang – Ninh Thuan – Da Lat – Phan Thiet in Central Vietnam; and Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta in the South.
12 days in vietnam itinerary

You can visit up to 6 destinations in your Vietnam 12-day itinerary (Source: Collected)

2. Top destinations to add to your 12-day Vietnam itinerary

2.1. Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam offers a vibrant mix of culture, nature, history, and cuisine – ideal for the start of your 12 days in Vietnam itinerary.

Hanoi - the capital city

If you are in Vietnam in 12 days, don’t miss Hanoi (Source: Collected)

More on: North Vietnam Itinerary: TOP places & tips for a memorable journey

2.2. Central Vietnam

For your 12 days in Vietnam itinerary, Central Vietnam enchants with its blend of historical attractions and natural wonders.

  • Hue: This former capital is home to majestic citadels, royal tombs, and tranquil pagodas. Highlights are Khai Dinh Tomb, Tu Duc Tomb, Hue Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Perfume River.
  • Da Nang: Da Nang charms with its modern skyline, scenic coastline, and iconic bridges. You can visit the Marble Mountains, Son Tra Peninsula, My Khe Beach, and Dragon Bridge. Cultural sites like the Cham Museum and local markets round out the experience.
Nha Trang in Central Vietnam

Nha Trang – a must-visit for beach lovers (Source: Collected)

2.3. Southern Vietnam

Southern Vietnam pulses with energy and warmth, from urban life to riverine serenity, making your 12 days in Vietnam itinerary unforgettable.

  • Ba Ria – Vung Tau: This coastal province offers a peaceful escape from the city. In Vung Tau, beaches, mountains, and religious sites like Christ the King Statue are top attractions. Meanwhile, Con Dao Island offers wildlife spotting, snorkeling, and a historic prison.
  • Mekong Delta: Spanning Can Tho, An Giang, Ben Tre, etc., the Mekong Delta captivates with its maze of rivers, fertile lands, and lush orchards. You can explore floating markets in the Mekong Delta, cruise canals, and pass by fruit-laden gardens and riverside temples. In contrast, Phu Quoc lures tourists with its pristine beaches.
Southern Vietnam

The Mekong Delta stands out with its rustic charm (Source: Collected)

Discover: Things to do in Vietnam: A fully updated guide for your trip in 2025

3. Perfect 12 days in Vietnam itinerary for every traveler

3.1. Option 1

Duration 12 days in Vietnam itinerary
2 days in Hanoi Day 1

  • Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and explore One Pillar Pagoda
  • Visit Dong Xuan Night Market to enjoy street food delights
  • Soak up the nightlife on Ta Hien Street

Day 2

  • Cycle around West Lake or kayak on its serene water
  • Relax at a peaceful spot in Tay Ho Temple
  • Watch the sunset at Truc Bach Lake
  • Take a double-decker bus tour
1 day in Ha Long Day 3

  • Set sail on a boat tour through Ha Long Bay
  • Head to Bai Chay Beach to swim and try water-based activities
  • Discover the local culture at Quang Ninh Museum
1 day in Ninh Binh Day 4

  • Explore various temples and relics in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
  • Enjoy a boat ride through Trang An
  • Visit the peaceful Bich Dong Pagoda nestled in the hills
  • Enjoy a panoramic view of Tam Coc from the top of Mua Caves
2 days in Hue Day 5

  • Visit Hue Imperial City and Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities
  • Explore Gia Long Tomb
  • Cruise the Perfume River, enjoy royal court music, and release floating lanterns
  • Unwind in the city’s backpacker quarter

Day 6

  • Tour Phuoc Tich Ancient Village and try hands-on pottery-making experiences
  • Meditate at Huyen Khong Pagoda
  • Visit Thuy Xuan Incense Village
2 days in Da Nang Day 7

  • Swim at the beach in the city center
  • Explore stunning caves and pagodas in the Marble Mountains
  • Dive into Cham history at Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture
  • Visit Da Nang Museum for stories of the city’s transformation

Day 8

  • Head to Son Tra Peninsula to see Lady Buddha Statue and lush landscapes
  • Appreciate artwork at Da Nang Fine Arts Museum
  • Catch the sunset on the beach
  • Walk along Bach Dang Street to admire Da Nang’s famous bridges
1 day in Hoi An Day 9

  • Wander around Hoi An Ancient Town
  • Explore attractions like the Japanese Bridge and Tan Ky Old House
  • Have a blast at VinWonders Nam Hoi An – where you can enjoy a scenic cruise through a semi-wildlife park, dive into the richness of Vietnamese culture, and test your limits with record-breaking games

1 day in Ho Chi Minh City Day 10

  • Discover history at the War Remnants Museum
  • Snap photos at colonial-era landmarks like Saigon Post Office and Notre-Dame Cathedral
  • Visit Ben Thanh Market to buy souvenirs and enjoy street food
  • Enjoy vibrant nightlife at Bui Vien Street or Nguyen Hue Street
2 days in Phu Quoc Island Day 11

Day 12

  • Visit Phu Quoc Prison to understand the island’s dark history
  • Enjoy peaceful moments at Ho Quoc Pagoda
  • Snorkel around Fingernail Island to see coral reefs up close
  • Relax on Starfish Beach as the sun dips into the horizon

 

Magical Moments at VinWonders Nam Hoi An

VinWonders Nam Hoi An brings the fun to all tourists

3.2. Option 2

Duration 12 days in Vietnam itinerary
2 days in Ho Chi Minh City Day 1

  • Explore the Independence Palace
  • Shop and mingle with the locals at Ben Thanh Market
  • Head to Grand Park, featuring an artificial beach, an amusement park, and a water park

Day 2

  • Visit Cu Chi Tunnels to understand the resilience of Vietnamese people
  • Visit the War Remnants Museum for a powerful look at the resistance war in Vietnam
  • Watch a traditional water puppet show
4 days in Da Nang – Hoi An Day 3

  • Start your morning with a walk along My Khe Beach
  • Discover the fascinating Con Market and Han Market
  • Stroll along the Han River and see the Dragon Bridge

Day 4

  • Journey to Hoi An and explore its UNESCO-listed Ancient Town
  • Meander through ancient canals and unwind at a cozy café
  • Visit An Bang Beach for a walk on the sand at sunset

Day 5

  • Start your day at the Marble Mountains
  • Continue to Son Tra Peninsula for wildlife watching and coastal hiking
  • Enjoy a lively evening at a seaside bar

Day 6

  • Step into history at Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture
  • Head to My Son Sanctuary to marvel at ancient Cham temples
  • Sip a craft beer and enjoy beach views at East West Brewing
1 day in Hue Day 7

  • Stroll through some parks near the Perfume River
  • Browse Dong Ba Market for local produce and souvenirs
  • Discover Hue Imperial City
  • Board a dragon boat on the river and enjoy Hue royal court music
3 days in Hanoi Day 8

  • Pay respects at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and explore Ho Chi Minh Museum
  • Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and taste street food
  • End the day at a trendy café or cocktail bar

Day 9

  • Browse Hanoi Old Quarter for souvenirs and grab a street food bite
  • Explore Hoa Lo Prison, which used to house Vietnamese political prisoners
  • Enjoy a show at the historic Hanoi Opera House

Day 10

  • Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest temple
  • Take a walk around the West Lake
  • Relax at a quirky café or bar on the Train Street
2 days in Sapa Day 11

  • Enjoy a peaceful walk through the town center
  • Explore Sapa Culture Museum
  • Visit Sapa Stone Church
  • Dine on local specialties like salmon hotpot

Day 12

  • Hike through terraced rice fields and stop by a local ethnic village
  • Ride the cable car up Fansipan Mountain to enjoy breathtaking alpine views
  • Treat yourself to a soothing herbal foot soak

 

Have fun at Grand Park

Grand Park – a premier entertainment complex in Ho Chi Minh City

3.3. Option 3

Duration 12 days in Vietnam itinerary
3 days in Hue – Quang Binh – Da Nang Day 1

  • Visit Hue Imperial City and Thien Mu Pagoda
  • Admire the Perfume River with its tranquil views
  • Enjoy a traditional dragon boat on the Perfume River

Day 2

  • Travel to Quang Binh 
  • Explore Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, known for its breathtaking caves and limestone formations

Day 3

  • Return to Hue 
  • Hop on a cyclo to discover Thuan An Beach and Trang Tien Bridge
  • Take a scenic drive to Da Nang via Hai Van Pass.
  • Relax at the beach and enjoy Da Nang’s lively nightlife
1 day in Da Nang – Hoi An Day 4

  • Explore the Marble Mountains and Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village
  • Head to Hoi An and take a walking tour through the Ancient Town
  • Admire the shimmering reflections of Hoi An’s lanterns along the Hoai River
2 days in Nha Trang Day 5

  • Fly to Nha Trang and discover the natural beauty of Hon Tre Island
  • Spend the day at Vinpearl Harbour Nha Trang, a vibrant complex featuring shopping and dining amenities
  • Experience the thrills of VinWonders Nha Trang with exhilarating games and the spectacular Tata Show

Day 6

  • Swim and snorkel at Hon Mun Island and Hon Mot Island
  • Relax with a therapeutic mud bath on Hon Tam Island
2 days in Mui Ne Day 7

  • Embark on a trip to the White Sand Dunes and Fairy Stream
  • Discover local life and enjoy seafood at Mui Ne Fishing Village

Day 8

  • Relax and engage in exciting beach sports like parasailing and jet skiing on Mui Ne Beach
  • Admire the sunset at Red Sand Dunes
2 days in Ho Chi Minh City – Tay Ninh Day 9

  • Begin in Chinatown with a walk through Binh Tay Market and a visit to Thien Hau Pagoda
  • Explore the Independence Palace and Saigon Opera House
  • Shop and dine at Ben Thanh Market

Day 10

  • Visit the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels
  • Discover the ornate Tay Ninh Holy See
  • Return to Ho Chi Minh city center for a night stroll
2 days in Phu Quoc Day 11

  • Explore Ham Ninh Fishing Village and watch the sunset
  • Visit Phu Quoc Night Market and join a night squid fishing tour

Day 12

  • Explore VinWonders Phu Quoc
  • Discover Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s first semi-wild conservation park
  • Head to Grand World Phu Quoc for shopping and dining

 

Explore VinWonders Phu Quoc

VinWonders Phu Quoc is a must-visit on the Pearl Island

A well-planned 12 days in Vietnam itinerary lets you experience the country’s vibrant cities, serene landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Whether you are exploring ancient towns, relaxing on tropical beaches, or hiking through mountain trails, this 12 days in Vietnam itinerary ensures a memorable journey through the heart of Vietnam.

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