Vietnam is one of the best countries in Southeast Asia for solo travelers. It’s affordable, safe, easy to navigate, and packed with unforgettable experiences — from buzzing cities to peaceful countryside and stunning coastlines. If you’re planning your first independent trip, this 10-day Vietnam solo travel itinerary guide gives you a balanced route that maximizes culture, food, scenery, and flexibility.
This itinerary is designed for solo travelers who want a mix of cities, nature, and relaxation while keeping travel time efficient.
Why Vietnam Is Ideal for Solo Travel
Vietnam consistently ranks as a top destination for solo adventurers thanks to its excellent tourist infrastructure and welcoming culture. Hostels, cafes, day tours, and sleeper trains make it easy to meet people without feeling rushed. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and travel costs are significantly lower than in many Western countries.
According to the official Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, solo travel in Vietnam has grown rapidly due to improved transport and digital nomad infrastructure.
Overview: Vietnam Solo Travel Itinerary (10 Days)
Route:
Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Da Nang / Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City
This north-to-south route avoids backtracking and keeps flights short and affordable.
Days 1–2: Hanoi – Culture, Food & Old Quarter Life
Hanoi is the perfect starting point for your Vietnam solo travel itinerary. The city blends French colonial architecture, centuries-old temples, and vibrant street life.
Things to do in Hanoi:
-
Explore the Old Quarter on foot
-
Try local dishes like pho, bun cha, and egg coffee
-
Visit the Temple of Literature
-
Watch a traditional water puppet show
Hanoi is extremely social for solo travelers, with walking tours and food tours happening daily. Joining one early helps you meet fellow travelers and learn your way around.
For self-guided walking routes, check Vietnam Guide’s Hanoi section.
Solo tip: Stay in the Old Quarter — it’s walkable, lively, and safe.
Day 3: Ha Long Bay – Limestone Cliffs & Overnight Cruise
From Hanoi, take a day trip or overnight cruise to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its emerald waters and limestone karsts.
Why Ha Long Bay works for solo travelers:
-
Easy group tours (no planning stress)
-
Shared meals and activities onboard
-
Kayaking, caves, and island viewpoints
An overnight cruise is ideal if you want a relaxed pace and social atmosphere.
To compare reputable cruises, use Halong Bay Official.
Day 4: Fly to Da Nang – Beach & City Balance
Return to Hanoi and take a short flight to Da Nang, one of Vietnam’s most livable cities. Da Nang offers beaches, modern cafes, and a slower pace — perfect after busy Hanoi.
Highlights:
-
My Khe Beach (great for sunrise walks)
-
Dragon Bridge night fire show
-
Cafes and coworking spaces
Da Nang is very safe for solo travelers and popular with digital nomads.
For flight planning and domestic routes, see Vietnam Airlines.
Days 5–6: Hoi An – Lanterns, Food & Ancient Streets
From Da Nang, it’s a 45-minute ride to Hoi An, one of Vietnam’s most charming towns. Many travelers say Hoi An is a highlight of their Vietnam solo travel itinerary 10 days.
Things to do in Hoi An:
-
Wander the lantern-lit Ancient Town
-
Take a Vietnamese cooking class
-
Bike through rice fields
-
Visit An Bang Beach
-
Try cao lau noodles
Hoi An is incredibly solo-friendly — safe, compact, and full of travelers from around the world.
For cultural insights and town history, see UNESCO’s Hoi An page.
Day 7: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City – Energy & History
Fly from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam’s largest and most energetic city. This is where modern Vietnam meets deep history.
Top attractions:
-
War Remnants Museum
-
Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office
-
Ben Thanh Market
-
Rooftop bars and street food alleys
Ho Chi Minh City has an excellent hostel scene and vibrant nightlife, making it easy to socialize.
Day 8: Cu Chi Tunnels or Mekong Delta Day Trip
Take a guided day trip outside the city — ideal for solo travelers who don’t want to organize transport.
Choose one:
-
Cu Chi Tunnels: Learn about Vietnam War history
-
Mekong Delta: Floating markets and river life
Both trips offer group settings, professional guides, and hassle-free transport.
For trusted tour comparisons, check GetYourGuide Vietnam.
Day 9: Cafes, Shopping & City Exploration
Slow down and explore Saigon at your own pace.
Solo-friendly ideas:
-
Coffee hopping (Vietnamese iced coffee is legendary)
-
Visit Thao Dien for cafes and expat vibes
-
Shop for souvenirs and local fashion
-
Relax with a massage or spa treatment
Vietnam’s café culture makes solo time feel comfortable, not lonely.
Day 10: Departure or Optional Extension
Depending on your flight, use your final day to relax, revisit favorite spots, or prepare for onward travel to Cambodia or Thailand.
Budget Breakdown (Solo Traveler)
A typical Vietnam solo travel itinerary 10 days budget:
-
Accommodation: $10–$40/night
-
Food: $10–$20/day
-
Transport & flights: $150–$250 total
-
Tours & activities: $100–$200
Estimated total: $700–$1,200 depending on comfort level.
Safety Tips for Solo Travel in Vietnam
-
Use Grab instead of random taxis
-
Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
-
Avoid flashing expensive electronics
-
Trust your instincts and walk away if uncomfortable
Vietnam is considered one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia for solo travelers.
10-Day Itinerary Conclusion
This 10-day Vietnam solo travel itinerary offers the perfect balance of culture, scenery, food, and relaxation without feeling rushed. Whether you’re backpacking, working remotely, or simply exploring on your own, Vietnam rewards solo travelers with unforgettable experiences and meaningful connections.
If you want flexibility, friendly locals, and incredible value for money, Vietnam is hard to beat.
Featured Image: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam | Photo by Min An