South and Central Vietnam itinerary: The perfect 10 – 14 day travel guide

With a 10-14 day South and Central Vietnam itinerary, you can dive into a wide range of experiences, from vibrant cities and ancient landmarks to scenic beaches and cultural gems. This travel guide is your perfect roadmap to an unforgettable adventure through South and Central Vietnam.

Introduction to South and Central Vietnam

Vietnam’s South and Central regions are a stunning blend of vibrant cities, historical landmarks, pristine beaches, and lush landscapes, each offering unique experiences that draw travelers from around the world.  

Discovering the vibrant charm of South Vietnam

South Vietnam is located in the lower part of the country, bordered by Cambodia to the west and the South China Sea to the east. This region is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from bustling cities to serene river deltas and stunning coastal areas. The economic and cultural heart of the south is Ho Chi Minh City, a dynamic metropolis filled with historical landmarks and modern skyscrapers.

South Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate, meaning it is warm and humid throughout the year. Unlike the north, which experiences four seasons, the south has only two distinct seasons: the dry season (November – April) and the rainy season (May – October).

The dry season is the best time to visit, with plenty of sunshine, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The rainy season, while bringing occasional heavy showers, usually sees short bursts of rain followed by sunshine, making travel still manageable.

Top destinations in South Vietnam 

• Ho Chi Minh city – the beating heart of the South: Formerly known as Saigon, this is Vietnam’s largest and most energetic city. Ho Chi Minh city offers a mix of colonial architecture, historic landmarks and modern skyscrapers. 
• Mekong Delta – the land of rivers and floating markets: Contrary to the vibrant city life of Saigon, Mekong Delta is a peaceful place, famous for floating markets, traditional villages and lush fruit orchards. 
• Da Lat – the city of eternal spring: A romantic highland retreat with cool weather, pine forests, and stunning waterfalls.
• Nha Trang – Vietnam’s  premier beach destination: A stunning coastal city known for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and excellent diving spots.

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam stretches along the country’s narrow midsection, bordered by the South China Sea to the east and the Truong Son Mountain Range to the west. This region is known for its diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches and coastal fishing villages to ancient cities and rugged mountains. 

Central Vietnam experiences a tropical monsoon climate, but unlike the south, it has more variation due to its geography. The region is divided into two climatic zones: the north-central coast, which has cooler winters, and the south-central coast, which remains warm year-round.

The dry season (February – August) brings plenty of sunshine, making it the best time to visit beaches and historical sites. The rainy season (September – January) often brings heavy rains and occasional typhoons, particularly in cities like Hue and Da Nang. Despite this, the region’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and dynamic cities make it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Vietnam.

Key attractions in Central Vietnam:

• Da Nang – the modern coastal city: A vibrant city known for its golden beaches, stunning bridges, and nearby natural wonders.
• Hoi An – the ancient town of lanterns: A UNESCO-listed town famous for its well-preserved architecture, colorful lanterns, and charming riverside setting.
• Hue – the imperial city: A historic city once home to Vietnam’s emperors, featuring the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and royal tombs. This area is well- known for its rich history and distinctive Hue cuisine.
• Phong Nha – Ke Bang: A paradise for adventure seekers, home to Son Doong, the world’s largest cave, along with Phong Nha Cave, Paradise Cave, and underground rivers.
• Quy Nhon: A tranquil beach town with turquoise waters, scenic fishing villages, and ancient Cham Towers.
• Nha Trang: A beach lover’s paradise with white sandy shores, diving spots, and vibrant nightlife.

Complete 14 day South and Central Vietnam itinerary 

A journey through South and Central Vietnam unfolds like a story, with each destination revealing a new chapter of beauty and culture. Here is a complete 14-day itinerary designed to bring out the best of South and Central Vietnam.

Day 1: Explore Ho Chi Minh – the vibrant metropolis

• Morning: Arriving in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll immediately feel the energy of this bustling urban hub. After checking in at your hotel, begin your journey at Independence Palace. From there, take a short walk to the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office, two of the city’s most iconic French colonial landmarks. 
• Afternoon: After a traditional com tam (broken rice) lunch, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market. Next, visit the War Remnants Museum.
• Evening: As the sun sets, head to Bitexco Skydeck for a panoramic view of the city’s skyline. For dinner, it is recommended to indulge in hotpot or seafood. If you’re up for a lively night, explore the bustling Bui Vien Walking Street.

Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta 

• Morning: Start your day with a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a fascinating underground network that played a crucial role during the Vietnam War.
• Afternoon:  Continue your journey to the Mekong Delta. Cruise through the narrow canals, stop at a local village to see how traditional coconut candy and rice paper are made.
• Evening: Return to the city in the evening. Unwind at a riverside cafe, try a bowl of hu tieu Nam Vang (southern-style noodle soup)

Day 3: Fly to Da Nang

• Morning: Take a 1.5-hour flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, head straight to My Khe Beach. Spend some time relaxing by the shore or take a dip in the refreshing sea.
• Afternoon: Visit the Marble Mountains. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Han River, stopping at the famous Dragon Bridge, which breathes fire on weekend nights.
• Evening: Enjoy a feast of grilled squid, steamed clams, and fresh fish at a beachfront restaurant. If you have energy left, explore Helio Night Market, where you can shop for local crafts and enjoy live performances.

Day 4: Ba Na Hills & Transfer to Hoi An

• Morning: Embark on a cable car ride to Ba Na Hills, home to the famous Golden Bridge, held up by two giant stone hands. Explore the French Village, an area that feels like a miniature European town, complete with cobblestone streets and quaint cafés. 
• Afternoon: Get to Hoi An (45-minute drive). Check into your accommodation at Bliss Beach Resort & Wellness and take a relaxing stroll along the charming old town, admiring the Japanese Covered Bridge and traditional wooden houses.
• Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner of Cao Lau noodles, a specialty dish unique to Hoi An. Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River, where you can release a floating lantern and make a wish.

Day 5: Explore Hoi An

• Morning: Start your day with a bicycle ride through lush rice paddies to Tra Que Vegetable Village. Here, you can experience organic farming the traditional way and join a cooking class to learn how to make Vietnamese spring rolls and pancakes.
• Afternoon: Head to An Bang Beach, where you can lounge under a beach umbrella, sip on fresh coconut juice, or take a dip in the warm waters.
• Evening: Visit Hoi An’s night market to shop for handmade souvenirs and sample delicious street food.

Day 6: Hoi An – My Son – Transfer to Hue

• Morning: Start the day with a trip to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO-listed site that was once the religious center of the Champa Kingdom.
• Afternoon: After returning to Hoi An for lunch, take a private car or bus to Hue. Along the way, enjoy a breathtaking drive through the Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam’s most stunning coastal roads. Stop by Lang Co Bay, a serene stretch of beach with crystal-clear waters and picturesque scenery.
• Evening: Upon arrival in Hue, relax with a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, where you’ll listen to traditional Hue folk music while floating past the city’s historic landmarks.

Day 7: Discover Hue

• Morning: Begin your day by exploring the Hue Imperial City.
• Afternoon: Visit the Tomb of Khai Dinh. Continue to Thien Mu Pagoda, a 7-story pagoda overlooking the Perfume River, known as the symbol of Hue.
• Evening: Savor bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup), banh beo (steamed rice cakes), and nem lui (grilled pork skewers) at a local restaurant. Later, explore Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street, filled with street food and souvenirs.

Day 8: Phong Nha & Ke Bang

• Morning: Depart early for Phong Nha, a UNESCO-listed national park famous for its vast limestone caves.
• Afternoon: Explore Phong Nha cave.
• Evening: Unwind at a cozy homestay, enjoy the peaceful countryside atmosphere, and taste local Quang Binh dishes like banh bot loc (shrimp and tapioca dumplings).

Day 9: Paradise Cave & Ziplining at Dark Cave

• Morning: Visit Paradise Cave, one of Asia’s longest dry caves, featuring massive stalactite formations that resemble a grand underground cathedral.
• Afternoon: Head to Dark Cave, where you can zipline over the turquoise river and swim inside the cave before experiencing a fun and rejuvenating natural mud bath.
• Evening: After dinner, transfer to Dong Hoi Airport and catch a flight to Nha Trang.

Day 10: Nha Trang

• Morning: Arrive in Nha Trang and check in to your beachfront hotel. Spend the morning unwinding at Tran Phu Beach.
• Afternoon: Take a boat tour to Hon Mun Island, famous for its vibrant coral reefs. Enjoy snorkeling or glass-bottom boat tours to explore the rich marine life.
• Evening: Savor a delicious seafood feast at a beachfront restaurant before visiting Nha Trang’s night market to shop for souvenirs.

Day 11: VinWonders Theme Park or HotSprings Retreat

• Morning: 

• Option 1: VinWonders Nha Trang – Visit Vietnam’s largest amusement park, featuring a water park, roller coasters, an aquarium, and a cable car ride over the sea.
• Option 2: Thap Ba Hot Springs – Enjoy a mineral mud bath and unwind in the natural hot springs

• Afternoon: Relax at a beach club or rooftop bar, sipping cocktails while watching the sunset over the ocean.

Day 12: Discover Ponagar Tower & Diep Son Island

• Morning: Explore the Po Nagar Cham Towers, ancient Hindu temples built by the Cham civilization, offering panoramic views of Nha Trang.
• Afternoon: Take a speedboat to Diep Son Island, known for its sand pathway that appears at low tide, allowing you to walk across the sea.
• Evening: Return to Nha Trang and taste the city’s specialty: nem nuong Ninh Hoa (grilled pork rolls).

Day 13: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

• Morning: Catch a flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam’s vibrant southern metropolis.
• Afternoon: Browse for local handicrafts, silk, and Vietnamese coffee at Ben Thanh Market or shop at Takashimaya Shopping Mall.
• Evening: Enjoy a food tour featuring banh xeo (crispy Vietnamese pancakes), hu tieu (pork noodle soup), and street BBQ before strolling along Nguyen Hue Walking Street.

Day 14: Cultural exploration & Departure

• Morning: If time allows, visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a serene Taoist temple, or the pink-colored Tan Dinh Church.
• Afternoon: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a final Vietnamese coffee before heading to the airport.

Read more: Top things to do in Central Vietnam: A complete travel guide

All you need to know before your journey to South and Central Vietnam

A trip to South and Central Vietnam will undoubtedly bring you unforgettable experiences. However, to ensure a smooth journey, here are some important things to keep in mind:

• Best time to visit: 

Central Vietnam: The best time to visit Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and other destinations is from January to August, as the weather is dry with little rain. Avoid the stormy season (September – November).

Southern Vietnam: The region has two distinct seasons: the rainy season (May – November) and the dry season (December – April). If you want to explore the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City or the Mekong Delta, visiting during the dry season is ideal to avoid heavy rains.

• Transportation: In major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, you can get around by taxi, ride-hailing apps (Grab, Be), buses, or by renting a motorbike. If you plan to visit multiple provinces, consider taking buses, trains, or domestic flights to save time.
• Weather and clothing tips: Central Vietnam can have extreme weather, with very hot summers, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Southern Vietnam is warm all year round, but if you’re visiting during the rainy season, carry a raincoat or umbrella to deal with sudden showers.
• Currency and payment methods: The official currency is Vietnamese Dong (VND). Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in hotels, shopping malls, and restaurants in big cities, but cash is still king in local markets, street vendors, and smaller towns. Mobile payment apps like Momo, ZaloPay, and VNPay are becoming popular, especially in urban areas.

A well-planned South and Central Vietnam itinerary ensures you experience the region’s vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and diverse landscapes to the fullest. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, this itinerary will help you make the most of your time in Vietnam. And for a truly relaxing retreat, don’t forget to include Bliss Beach Resort & Wellness as one of your stay options, where tranquility meets luxury in the heart of Vietnam’s coastal paradise.

Read more: Discover the magical beauty beneath the sea with diving Hoi An