10 day itinerary
Vietnam
Personalized with:Solo female travelerAdventurous but safeFrom Hanoi to Ho chi minhSee main sightsSee all local hidden gems
Itinerary
Vietnam is a fantastic destination for solo female travelers, and I’m excited to help you plan an adventurous yet safe 10-day itinerary from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
- Morning: Arrive in Hanoi. Check into a cozy hotel or hostel in the Old Quarter. I recommend places like for a touch of comfort.
- Afternoon: Stroll around . Visit and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Grab a bowl of pho at a local eatery.
- Evening: Explore the Old Quarter. Try some street food like bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) and enjoy a traditional water puppet show at the .
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour
- Morning: Visit the and the . Don’t miss the nearby!
- Afternoon: Head to the , Vietnam’s first university. Then, explore the to learn about the diverse cultures of Vietnam.
- Evening: Take a cooking class to learn how to make Vietnamese dishes. It’s a fun way to meet fellow travelers!
Day 3: Day Trip
- All Day: Book a day trip to . Enjoy a cruise through the stunning limestone karsts, visit a cave, and maybe even go kayaking! Make sure to choose a reputable tour company for safety.
- Evening: Return to Hanoi. Relax and enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 4: Ninh Binh Adventure
- Morning: Take a bus or train to Ninh Binh (about 2 hours). Rent a bike to explore the countryside.
- Afternoon: Visit for a boat ride through rice paddies and limestone cliffs. Don’t miss the !
- Evening: Stay overnight in Ninh Binh. Try local specialties like com chay (burnt rice) for dinner.
Day 5: Ninh Binh to Phong Nha
- Morning: Head to (about 4 hours by bus). Check into a guesthouse.
- Afternoon: Explore the park and visit the famous . You can take a boat tour or go for a swim in the river.
- Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening in the village. Try some local dishes at a nearby restaurant.
Day 6: Phong Nha Caving Adventure
- All Day: Go on a guided tour to or . If you’re feeling adventurous, the latter offers zip-lining and swimming in an underground river!
- Evening: Return to your guesthouse and relax. Share stories with fellow travelers over dinner.
Day 7: Travel to Hoi An
- Morning: Depart Phong Nha and head to Hoi An (about 6 hours by bus). Enjoy the scenic drive!
- Afternoon: Check into your accommodation in Hoi An. Explore the Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don’t miss the !
- Evening: Enjoy a lantern-lit dinner by the river. Try cao lau, a local noodle dish.
Day 8: Hoi An Exploration
- Morning: Take a bicycle tour to the nearby rice paddies and local villages. It’s a great way to see the countryside!
- Afternoon: Visit a local tailor to get a custom outfit made. Hoi An is famous for its tailoring!
- Evening: Join a cooking class or take a lantern-making workshop. It’s a fun way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Day 9: Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City
- Morning: Fly or take a bus to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Visit the and the to learn about Vietnam’s history.
- Evening: Explore the bustling and try some street food. Don’t miss the banh mi!
Day 10: and Departure
- Morning: Take a half-day tour to the . It’s a fascinating insight into Vietnam’s history during the war.
- Afternoon: Return to Ho Chi Minh City. Spend your last few hours shopping or visiting any sights you missed.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with a view of the city skyline before heading to the airport.
Tips for Safety and Enjoyment:
- Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
- Use reputable transportation options, especially for long distances.
- Trust your instincts; if something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to change your plans.
- Engage with locals; they can often lead you to hidden gems!
I hope this itinerary excites you! Vietnam is full of adventure, culture, and delicious food. Enjoy your trip! 🌏✈️