9-Day Itinerary Vietnam | Discover Vietnam from South to North

Discover Vietnam from South to North in 9 Days with Authentic Adventures

Travelers seeking an immersive journey through Vietnam’s most iconic destinations will find this 9-day tour from Authentic Adventures a compelling option. Combining cultural sights, stunning landscapes, and lively markets, the itinerary offers a rundown of the country’s highlights.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the professional guides, like Son Tran, are praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, ensuring travelers get authentic insights. Second, the well-organized logistics—from flights to transfers—make it easy to relax and enjoy each site without hassle. Third, the value for money is undeniable, with an all-inclusive package covering accommodation, meals, entry fees, and activities.

However, one thing to consider is that the group size is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, which is great for personalized service but may not suit those who prefer larger, more social groups. This tour suits travelers who love a mix of history, nature, and vibrant city life, and who prefer a carefully curated experience over independent exploring.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Accommodation, meals, and entrance fees are covered, eliminating unexpected costs.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides like Son Tran and Han enhance the experience with local insights.
• Flexible & Well-Organized: The itinerary is designed with smooth transitions between destinations, flights, and transfers.
• Authentic Experiences: From the Cu Chi Tunnels to the Mekong Delta, travelers get a taste of Vietnam’s culture and history.
• Value for Money: At $999, this tour offers a rundown of Vietnam’s must-see sights.
• Limited Group Size: Max 10 travelers ensures personalized attention and a more intimate journey.

An In-Depth Look at the 9-Day Itinerary

Let’s walk through each day, highlighting what makes each stop special and what you can expect.

Day 1: Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City

Your adventure begins in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s bustling economic hub. Upon arrival, a guide and driver will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. While check-in isn’t until 2 pm, the afternoon is yours to relax or explore nearby streets.

Reviewers note the convenience of well-organized pickups and appreciated the smooth start to the trip. The city itself promises vibrant street scenes, historical sites, and excellent dining options just outside your hotel.

Day 2: Exploring Ho Chi Minh City’s Landmarks

This day is packed with iconic sights:

• Reunification Palace: A symbol of Vietnam’s turbulent past, this historic site was the presidential palace during the Vietnam War. Visitors love the chance to walk through rooms filled with 70s decor and imagine wartime decisions.
• Notre Dame Cathedral: An architectural gem, admired as one of the world’s 19 most majestic cathedrals, it provides a beautiful photo backdrop and a moment of tranquility amid the city chaos.
• Central Post Office: With its neo-classical style and Asian touches, this building is a favorite for its perfect blend of European elegance and local flair.
• War Remnants Museum: For those interested in history, this museum offers a sobering look at Vietnam’s wartime struggles. Reviewers find it challenging but enlightening.

Lunch features a famous Vietnamese noodle soup (pho), a must-try local dish, before heading to the Cu Chi Tunnels in the afternoon.

This network of tunnels, stretching over 250 km, was used by Vietnamese soldiers during wartime. Visitors often comment on the eerie sense of history and the chance to try automatic weapons at the firing range (for a fee). The peaceful countryside ride to Cu Chi is also appreciated, giving a break from the city hustle.

Day 3: Mekong Delta – The Waterway of Life

Departing early, this day takes you into the Mekong Delta, a sprawling network of rivers and lush islands. The first stop is Cai Be and Ben Tre, where coconut groves dominate the scenery.

Expect to cruise narrow canals, visit local workshops making coconut candies, rice paper, and regional specialties. The day is a delightful immersion into rural life, with opportunities to taste fresh fruits, witness traditional crafts, and enjoy a cooking demonstration.

A highlight is the visit to Tan Phong island, with its tropical fruit gardens and local music. The cycling tour around the village offers a chance to see everyday life up close.

Reviewers mention the well-organized nature of this day, noting that the gentle pace and authentic interactions make it a memorable part of the trip. Ending with a relaxed return to Ho Chi Minh City, the day balances nature, culture, and leisure.

Day 4: Transition to Central Vietnam

Morning flight takes you from Ho Chi Minh City to Danang, a coastal city known for its beaches and proximity to UNESCO sites. The transfer is smooth, with travelers noting the convenience of the domestic flight and the ease of local guides.

In Danang, you’ll check into your hotel before the evening at leisure. The city is a good base for exploring nearby attractions like the Marble Mountains or relaxing on its beaches.

Day 5: The Wonder of Ba Na Hills

A full day visit to Ba Na Hills promises spectacular views and French colonial nostalgia. The cable car ride, which is highly praised for its safety and scenic quality, takes you to the top, where you’ll find:

• Vong Nguyet hills with stunning vistas
• The Golden Bridge: a must-see with its giant stone hands holding up the walkway, often highlighted as one of Vietnam’s most Instagrammable spots
• French Villas and Debay Wine Cellar: offering a taste of colonial elegance and history

The buffet lunch at the hilltop restaurant and free time to explore or enjoy the Fantasy Park amusements make this a fun, varied day.

Reviewers love the mix of nature, architecture, and entertainment, calling it a highlight of their trip.

Day 6: Flight to Hanoi

Relaxed morning before taking a short flight north to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital. The transfer from the airport to your hotel is straightforward, and the evening is free to wander the Old Quarter or enjoy local cuisine.

Fans of Hanoi appreciate its charm, lively markets, and the blend of French colonial and traditional Vietnamese architecture.

Day 7 & 8: Ha Long Bay & Lan Ha Bay Cruise

These two days are dedicated to cruising through some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking waters. Starting early, you’ll transfer to Tuan Chau port and board a cruise boat.

Highlights include:

• Lan Ha Bay: Less crowded than Ha Long, but equally stunning, with limestone karsts rising from the sea.
• Kayaking and swimming: In the tranquil Tra Bau fishing village, you can paddle around limestone islands and even spot local seafood like snail da Da and Ha Da.
• Sunset Party & Jacuzzi: Perfect for unwinding after a day on the water. Reviewers mention the spectacular views during sunset as a highlight.

On the morning of day 8, an early Tai Chi session offers a peaceful start, followed by breakfast with bay views. The cruise ends with brunch, and you’ll return to Hanoi in the late afternoon.

Travelers consistently note the well-organized cruise, the knowledgeable crew, and the chance to relax amid stunning scenery.

Day 9: Farewell Hanoi

Your trip concludes with free time until your transfer to the airport. This flexible ending allows for last-minute strolls through Hanoi’s Old Quarter or some final local bites.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $999 per person, this 9-day package covers nearly everything — flights, accommodations, meals, entrance fees, and activities. Reviewers highlight the professional guides, like Son Tran and Han, who are dedicated to making the trip memorable and smooth. Their local insights and attentiveness elevate the experience, making history and culture come alive in a way that solo travel often can’t match.

The inclusion of major highlights—Ho Chi Minh City landmarks, Mekong Delta, Ba Na Hills, and Lan Ha Bay—ensures travelers see a broad spectrum of Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and cultures. The pace is well-balanced, combining city exploration, rural immersion, mountain vistas, and sea adventures.

The tour’s small group size, capped at 10, fosters a more personal experience, enabling meaningful conversations and flexible adjustments. This intimacy, combined with the efficient organization, means fewer logistical headaches and more time enjoying each site.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews praise the seamless logistics, some travelers might find the packed schedule demanding, especially with early mornings and long travel days. Also, the group size limit could mean limited flexibility in some activities. For travelers who prefer solo or slow travel, this might feel a bit regimented.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 9-day Vietnam itinerary is perfect for those wanting an all-in-one package that balances sightseeing, culture, and relaxation. Ideal for first-timers wanting a rundown, it also suits travelers with limited time who want to maximize their experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

If you prefer intimate groups, professional guides, and a good mix of city streets, countryside, and sea views, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s also a solid choice for travelers who value value for money, as the package includes a wide range of activities and accommodations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $999 fee covers accommodation, all entrance fees for sightseeing, meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinners), local transportation, domestic flights, and guided tours.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, reviews mention that hotels are in great locations, clean, and well-suited for a sightseeing trip.

What kind of transportation is used?
You’ll travel by private air-conditioned van, with domestic flights between Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, and Hanoi. The cruise boats are also well-organized and comfortable.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The group size is limited to 10, making it ideal for those traveling alone who want a more personal experience.

How physically demanding is the itinerary?
Expect some walking, short cycling tours, and boat excursions, but overall it’s manageable for most travelers who are comfortable with moderate activity levels.

Can I customize this tour?
While the itinerary is well-planned, the small group size and dedicated guides mean some flexibility is possible, especially if booked directly with the operator.

Are meals provided?
Yes, most meals are included, featuring local dishes like pho and fresh seafood, with some free evenings for independent dining.

What should I pack?
Light, breathable clothing for the warm weather, a hat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, a camera, and some cash for tips or extra purchases.

This 9-day Vietnam tour from Authentic Adventures offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances cultural insights, scenic beauty, and comfort. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a guided, all-in-one journey through the highlights of Vietnam with a reliable team ensuring a smooth adventure.