10 days in Vietnam: the complete guide to an unforgettable trip.

Between terraced rice fields, bays with a thousand islets, and cities influenced by multiple cultures, few destinations in Southeast Asia concentrate so much diversity on such accessible terrain. Discovering Vietnam is first and foremost discovering a country shaped by centuries of history and cross influences.

Vietnamese culture bears the marks of the Chinese empire, French colonization, and millennia-old traditions deeply rooted in daily life. These influences are visible in the architecture of the old towns, in the rituals of pagodas, and in a cuisine of surprising richness. Hoan Kiem Lake, in the heart of Hanoi, is one of those places where local life is witnessed in all its authenticity, between morning walkers and the aromas of phở wafting from street eateries.

Further inland, the Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue, the former imperial capital, or the lantern-lit alleys of Hoi An illustrate the depth of Vietnamese heritage. Each step of a ten-day itinerary reveals a distinct identity, and that is precisely what makes this journey so unique.

Vietnam offers an endless variety of travel formats. Families appreciate the richness of cultural and natural activities, both accessible and educational. Couples find in the old town of Hoi An or on Ha Long Bay cruises rare moments of intimacy. Adventurous travelers, for their part, grant themselves a bit of serenity in the timeless landscapes of Ninh Binh, often nicknamed the terrestrial Ha Long Bay, where one paddles between limestone karsts and rice fields shrouded in mist.

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From north to south, Vietnam unfolds like a three-act narrative, each with its own atmosphere. The aim of a ten-day stay is to find the right balance between the richness of discoveries and a comfortable pace.

The journey through Vietnam naturally begins in Hanoi, the capital where the bustle of the streets contrasts with the serenity of Hoan Kiem Lake. Two days allow you to explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, the Temple of Literature, and the lanes of the Old Quarter, once organized by trades. A must-see before heading to the coast.

Ha Long Bay, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is ideally explored on a cruise aboard a junk. Sail among the 1,900 karst islets, watch the sunrise from the upper deck, or kayak toward hidden lagoons: so many moments that deserve careful attention to every detail of the itinerary. Before leaving the north, Ninh Binh stands out as an unusual stop. Its boats gliding silently between the limestone pinnacles and rice fields make it a terrestrial version, just as captivating, of the famous bay.

The center of Vietnam hosts some of the most moving sites for a ten-day stay. Hue, the former imperial capital of the Nguyen dynasty, unfolds its royal mausoleums, its monumental citadel, and the Thien Mu Pagoda along the Perfume River. A boat ride on this poetically named river or a cooking class with a local family enriches this stop.

An hour's drive away, Hoi An reveals a completely different face. The old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is explored on foot or by bike, between tube houses, the covered Japanese bridge and colorful markets. In the evening, the lanterns transform the lanes into an almost unreal scene.

For those looking to venture into southern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City stands out as a vibrant stopover. The former Saigon blends remnants of French colonial architecture, poignant museums and an urban energy unique to Southeast Asia. Not far away, the Mekong Delta invites you to slow down: palm-lined canals, early-morning floating markets and artisan villages compose a picture of rare gentleness, where Vietnam reveals itself in all its human dimension.

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The country stretches across several latitudes, which leads to significant climatic variations from one region to another. Here's an overview of the most favorable periods depending on the area visited:

Generally, the months of March and April offer the best window for a north-to-south itinerary, with favorable conditions across the entire country. In December and January, the high season attracts more visitors to must-see sites, but the weather is particularly pleasant.

A well-prepared trip to Vietnam starts with a few key pieces of information. Here is the essential information to know before packing your bags:

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• Visa : French, Belgian and Swiss nationals are exempt from visa for a stay of up to 45 days. Beyond that, an e-visa must be applied online before departure;
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• Time difference : +6h in winter, +5h in summer compared to France ;
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• Currency : the dong (VND) is the local currency, on-site exchange is recommended ;
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• Transport : domestic flights between Hanoi and Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City are fast and allow covering long distances without wasting time.
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For the suitcase, opt for light and breathable clothing, a light waterproof jacket for tropical showers, as well as comfortable shoes for the many walks. Visiting temples and pagodas requires covering shoulders and knees.

Did you know? Son Doong cave, located in Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, is the largest cave in the world. It measures more than 5 kilometers in length.

Tips from our Travel Planners: entrusting the organization of your ten days in Vietnam to a destination expert ensures that every detail is tailored for you, from accommodation to activities, taking into account your pace and your wishes.

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