12 days in Vietnam: Top 4 Recommendations

This 12-day Vietnam itinerary takes you on a culinary adventure through the country's world-renowned cuisine while also introducing you to regional and cultural delicacies. Starting in the capital city of Hanoi, dive into the vibrant street food scene, sampling iconic dishes like bun cha (grilled pork and noodles) and banh cuon (steamed rice paper rolls). Cruise the emerald waters of the iconic Ha Long Bay with a chef on board. Savor plant-based Buddhism-influenced cuisine, including regional specialties like banh hue (rice flour cakes) and bun bo hue (spiced beef noodle soup). In Hoi An, take part in a Vietnamese cooking class, preparing world-renowned dishes such as pho. Witness the production of Vietnamese rice whiskey in Quy Nhon before experiencing the French influence in Ho Chi Minh City's banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich). To end your trip in Vietnam, immerse yourself in the Mekong Delta's agricultural bounty, sampling fresh fruits and honey at a local homestay. 

Discover the rich history of Vietnam’s major cities and enjoy the endless charms of Ha Long Bay with this 12-day itinerary. After arriving in Vietnam, soak in the nightlife at Saigon’s Pham Ngu Lao Street and visit the War Remnants Museum, Cu Chi Tunnels, and Ben Thanh Market. Your next stop is the coastal city of Nha Trang, where you can enjoy shopping, relax on the beach, go snorkeling, or rejuvenate in a therapeutic mud bath. Then in Hoi An, attend a cooking class, go cycling, and explore the Old Town. Next, combine a fun visit to a noodle-making enterprise with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of My Son. This is followed by a cruise down the Thu Bon River. Also, visit the Royal Citadel and tombs of Hue and see the underground caves of the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Finally, cruise along the lovely Ha Long Bay and enjoy the coffee culture of Hanoi, where this enchanting 12-day itinerary of Vietnam concludes. See all 12-day cruise tours in Vietnam.

Enjoy 12 days in Vietnam filled with dreamy beaches, captivating boat rides, and fascinating city walks. Explore Vietnam’s modern capital, Hanoi, before heading to Hoa Lu, the country’s historic capital, where you will visit the ancient temples of Le and the Dinh dynasties, among other sights. A scenic drive will take you to Ha Long Bay, where you will board a cruise to explore its splendid limestone islets. Kayak to beautiful islands and discover dazzling caves known for their stalagmites and stalactites. Your next stop is Hoi An, and there’s no better way to see the countryside around it than cycling. Stop at the Tra Que Organic Vegetable Village during your biking tour and get your hands dirty by trying their traditional farming method. The fabulous Phu Quoc and Mong Tay islands beckon next. Mong Tay is an excellent swimming and snorkeling destination. On Phu Quoc, you have many appealing options: enjoy a massage, shop, or walk down the beach. Your 12-day Vietnam itinerary ends in Ho Chi Minh City. Describe your ideal 12-day holiday for a customized trip to Vietnam.

Immerse yourself in Vietnam’s untouched natural beauty, historic towns, and serene waterways — and take some tasty detours — for a truly romantic discovery of this remarkable country. Your trip starts in Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll see the French-era Opera House and Notre Dame Cathedral and visit the 18th-century Thien Hau Pagoda. Next, in the Mekong Delta, learn how sticky rice is wrapped in coconut leaves. Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is your next destination. Discover why it’s known for its tailoring expertise (you can quickly get clothes made to take back home). You’ll also visit the picturesque Cam Thanh Coconut Village and ride a Vietnamese basket boat and a floating bamboo raft. A cycling tour through the lovely countryside will take you past coconut plantations. Enjoy your day at Cham Islands, known for their blue waters and pristine beaches. Then, bite into Hanoi’s tastiest street food in the Old Quarter, guided by an expert food blogger. Also, visit the intriguing village of Duong Lam, which was the home of two ancient Vietnamese kings. Conclude your trip on a Ha Long Bay cruise and see brilliant limestone rocks and karst grottoes.

From meeting a Hanoi resident in his colonial-style home and dashing off to the spectacular Cham Islands in a speedboat to discovering the nightlife of Saigon’s Pham Ngu Lao Street and seeing a magical sunset from the middle of a lagoon, 12 days in Vietnam can be full of delights and pleasant surprises. Book one of our tours or reach out to our local travel experts to build a personalized trip to Vietnam. If you are still not sure how long your Vietnam holiday should be, check out our guide on how many days to spend in Vietnam.

Planning a trip to Vietnam? Whether you have a week or a bit more, be sure to explore our comprehensive guides on spending 8 days in Vietnam or 9 days in Vietnam for the ultimate travel experience. For a seasonal overview, check our guide on the best time to visit Vietnam.