11 Days in Vietnam: Exceptional Itinerary Ideas for an Unforgettable Journey

Dreaming of ancient temples, emerald rice paddies, bustling street markets, and mouth-watering cuisine? Vietnam beckons! This incredible Southeast Asian nation offers a kaleidoscope of experiences, rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant culture that will captivate every Indian traveler.

If you’re planning your Vietnam travel from India and wondering where to begin, you’ve landed in the perfect place! This comprehensive guide is your all-in-one resource, covering everything from visa essentials and travel logistics to the must-see destinations and insider tips. Get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime!

 Why Vietnam is Your Next Must-Visit Destination from India 

Vietnam is more than just a place on the map; it’s an experience that truly comes alive. Here’s why it’s a go-to choice for Indian travelers:

• Affordable Exploration: Vietnam stands out as an incredibly budget-friendly destination. Enjoy delicious food, comfortable stays, and exciting activities without breaking the bank. A fantastic 10-day trip can often be managed for around INR 50,000!
• Hassle-Free Visas: Good news! Indian citizens can often obtain a Vietnam Visa-on-Arrival, simplifying your entry process significantly.
• A Tapestry of History & Culture: Delve into millennia of history, from ancient imperial cities like Hue to the French colonial charm of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Every corner tells a story.
• Breathtaking Natural Wonders: Prepare to be awestruck by iconic landscapes. Imagine cruising through the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, navigating the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta, or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Da Nang.
• An Unforgettable Culinary Journey: Vietnamese cuisine is a global sensation for a reason! From the comforting warmth of Pho to the delightful crunch of Banh Mi and the freshness of spring rolls, every meal is an adventure for your taste buds.

Getting There: Your Journey from India to Vietnam 

By Air: The Fastest & Most Popular Choice

Flying is by far the most convenient and efficient way to travel from India to Vietnam, typically taking around 4 to 6 hours for direct flights.

• Major Departure Cities in India: You can find direct or convenient one-stop flights from major Indian hubs like:
  • Delhi (DEL)
  • Mumbai (BOM)
  • Kolkata (CCU)
  • Bengaluru (BLR)
  • Chennai (MAA)
• Key International Airports in Vietnam: You’ll likely land at one of Vietnam’s three main international gateways:
  • Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi (for North Vietnam)
  • Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City (for South Vietnam)
  • Da Nang International Airport (DAD) in Da Nang (for Central Vietnam)
• Flight Costs: Airfare usually ranges from INR 20,000 to INR 35,000 for a round trip. However, if you book a few months in advance, you can often snag tickets for as low as INR 13,000 – INR 18,000, with occasional promotions even dropping to INR 7,000 – INR 9,000 if you’re lucky and plan well ahead!

By Sea: A Scenic, Leisurely Option (Indirect)

While there are no direct passenger ferries from India to Vietnam, sea travel is possible as part of a longer cruise itinerary.

• Cruises: You can embark on multi-country cruises from Southeast Asian ports (like Singapore or Cambodia) that include a stop in Ho Chi Minh City or other Vietnamese coastal towns. This offers a luxurious and unique way to experience the Mekong Delta region. Costs vary widely depending on the cruise line and duration (typically $45 – $100+ for shorter ferry segments from Cambodia, much more for full cruises from Singapore).

Vietnam Visa for Indian Citizens: A Smooth Process 

Good news for Indian travelers! Vietnam offers a relatively straightforward visa process.

• Visa on Arrival (VOA) / E-Visa: This is the most popular and convenient option.
  • You apply for an approval letter online from a licensed Vietnamese tour operator or an official e-Visa portal before you travel.
  • Upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, etc.), you present your approval letter, passport, photos, and pay a stamping fee to get your visa.
  • The e-Visa directly grants you a visa electronically, which you print and present on arrival without needing an approval letter and separate stamping fee.

• Required Documents:

  • Original Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay)
  • Visa Approval Letter (for VOA) or E-Visa printout
  • Passport-sized photographs (typically 2)
  • Visa Stamping Fee (for VOA, paid in USD)
  • Confirmed return flight tickets and accommodation details are advisable.
• Processing Time: Usually 3-5 working days for the approval letter/e-Visa, but it’s always best to apply at least 2-3 weeks before your departure to avoid any last-minute stress.

Where to Explore: Unmissable Destinations in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a vast array of landscapes and experiences. Here are some of the top regions and cities you simply must include in your itinerary:

North Vietnam: History, Culture & Limestone Wonders

• Hanoi: The captivating capital. Explore its ancient Old Quarter, serene Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and enjoy a traditional Water Puppet Show.
• Ha Long Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Embark on an overnight cruise amidst thousands of towering limestone karsts, emerald waters, and hidden caves. Absolutely breathtaking!
• Sapa: (For longer trips) Discover stunning terraced rice fields, vibrant hill tribe cultures, and trek through picturesque mountains.
• Ninh Binh (Tam Coc/ Trang An): Often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” this area offers stunning limestone formations, ancient temples, and boat trips through rice paddies and caves.

Central Vietnam: Imperial Heritage & Coastal Charm

• Hue: The former imperial capital. Explore the majestic Imperial City, intricate royal tombs, and enjoy a serene Perfume River cruise.
• Da Nang: A vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, Dragon Bridge, Marble Mountains, and proximity to the Ba Na Hills (Golden Bridge!).
• Hoi An: A charming ancient town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its lantern-lit streets, visit ancient houses, tailor shops, and enjoy its unique culinary scene.

South Vietnam: Bustling Cities & Mekong Delta

• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): The energetic economic hub. Explore the historic Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, War Remnants Museum, and vibrant Ben Thanh Market. Don’t miss the Cu Chi Tunnels for a glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime past.
• Mekong Delta: Take a boat trip through the lush waterways, visit floating markets, fruit orchards, and experience local village life.
• Phu Quoc Island: (For relaxation) A beautiful island paradise with pristine beaches, clear waters, and luxurious resorts – perfect for unwinding.
• Nha Trang: Another fantastic coastal city famous for its long sandy beaches, diving opportunities, and vibrant nightlife.

Practical Tips for Your Vietnam Trip from India

• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). USD is widely accepted in major tourist areas, but it’s good to have VND for local purchases.
• Language: Vietnamese. English is spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases (like “Xin Chao” – hello, “Cam On” – thank you) will go a long way!
  

  Best Time to Visit:

  • North Vietnam: October to April (cooler, dry).
  • Central Vietnam: February to May (warm, dry).
  • South Vietnam: December to April (hot, dry).
  • Vietnam’s long shape means you can usually find a good region to visit year-round.
• Transportation within Vietnam: Excellent options include domestic flights, overnight sleeper trains (for long distances), comfortable buses, and affordable taxis/ride-sharing apps (Grab is very popular).
• Local SIM Card: Highly recommended for easy navigation and connectivity. Available upon arrival at airports.
• Safety: Vietnam is generally very safe for tourists, but be aware of petty theft (like bag snatching in big cities).
• Food Safety: Stick to reputable restaurants and busy street food stalls (high turnover means fresh food).
• Dress Code: Modest clothing is respectful when visiting temples and pagodas.