Welcome to an exhilarating journey through the captivating lands of Vietnam and Thailand! In just 10 days, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures, explore historical wonders, savor mouthwatering cuisines, and create unforgettable memories. Our carefully crafted itineraries will take you on a whirlwind adventure, showcasing the highlights of both countries while ensuring a well-balanced and enriching experience. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the pristine beaches of Phuket, get ready for an unforgettable exploration of Southeast Asia’s gems. Let’s dive into the details and discover the best of Vietnam and Thailand in 10 days!
Best Time to Visit Vietnam and Thailand in 10 Days
Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Vietnam experiences regional variations in weather, making it important to select the right time for specific destinations. Generally, the best time to visit Vietnam is during its dry season, which typically spans from November to April. This period offers pleasant temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for exploring cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as the stunning landscapes of Halong Bay and Hoi An. However, it’s worth noting that northern Vietnam can get quite chilly between December and February, so packing some layers is advisable.
Ayutthaya, Thailand
Thailand’s tropical climate consists of three main seasons: the cool season, hot season, and rainy season. For a comfortable and enjoyable visit, the best time to explore Thailand is during its cool season, which extends from November to February. During this time, the temperatures are milder, and the humidity is relatively lower, providing a pleasant environment for sightseeing in Bangkok, and visiting the ancient temples of Ayutthaya. It’s important to note that the cool season is also the peak tourist season, so popular destinations may be more crowded. If you don’t mind occasional showers and want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Thailand during the shoulder seasons of March to May or September to October.
To make the most of your 10-day trip, it’s recommended to visit Vietnam and Thailand during their overlapping dry and cool seasons, which occur from November to February. This period offers favorable weather conditions in both countries, allowing you to explore various attractions without extreme heat or heavy rainfall. Keep in mind that popular tourist destinations may still be busy, so planning and booking accommodations and activities in advance is advisable.
>>> For more detailed information on the climate, check out our blog post of The Best Time To Visit Vietnam and When Is The Best Time To Visit Thailand?
Itineraries to Best Enjoy 10 Days in Vietnam and Thailand
Itinerary 1: Culinary Adventure
Day 1 – Arrive in Hanoi. Check in to the hotel and relax.
Day 2 – City Tour, Water Puppet Show & Street Food: Visit the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh Stilt House, One Pillar Pagoda, Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter.
Day 3 – Transfer to Ha Long Bay, Overnight Cruise. Start your journey to discover this UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vietnam.
Day 4 – Morning Cruise, Transfer to Hoi An: Explore Halong Bay’s cavern, return to Hanoi for a flight to Da Nang and transfer to Hoi An.
Day 5 – Hoi An Cooking Class & City Tour: Learn to cook Vietnamese dishes. Visit Hoi An’s Ancient Town, Japanese Covered Bridge, Assembly Hall
Day 6 – Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, Vespa Tour: Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, and Ben Thanh Market. Ride a Vespa and try out street food and Saigon dishes.
Day 7 – Day Trip to Mekong Delta: Ride a boat along the Mekong River and a tuk-tuk to discover the countryside, before transferring back to Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 8 – Fly to Bangkok, City Highlights & Food Tour: Visit the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun. Discover Thai street food and enjoy dinner at Chao Phraya River.
Day 9 –Day Trip to a Floating Market: Visit Maeklong Market in Samut Songkhram, and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi. Transfer back to Bangkok.
Day 10 –Bangkok departure.
>>> For the detailed tour itinerary, please check out Vietnam & Thailand Culinary Adventure: A Flavorful 10 Days Journey.
Itinerary 2: Nature Escape
Day 1 – Arrive in Hanoi (Vietnam), Vespa City Food Tour. Check out famous tourist attractions like Hanoi Old Quarter, West Lake, etc., and sample delicious Hanoi foods, like bun cha, banh xeo, etc.
Day 2 – Ba Vi Eco Countryside Tour. Return to Hanoi: Visit Ri Village and Moc Village to learn about gardening and picking tea leaves, as well as the process of making other regional products.
Day 3 – Transfer to Ninh Binh. Explore Van Long Nature Reserve: Visit Van Long Nature Reserve for beautiful limestone formations and various bird species. Ride a boat for sightseeing to Van Long Wharf.
Day 4 – Ninh Binh Bike & Boat Tour: Cycle through Tho Ha Village, and row a boat to Nha Le Pier to explore Galaxy Grotto.
Day 5 – Transfer to Ha Long Bay, Overnight Cruise with Kayaking.
Day 6 – Morning at Halong Bay – Return to Hanoi: Explore Halong’s limestone cave. Drive back to Hanoi and spend time at the Old Quarter.
Day 7 – Fly to Chiang Mai (Thailand), Evening Temples Tour: Visit Wat Umong, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
Day 8 – Mountains & Waterfalls Tour: Visit Doi Inthanon National Park, Wachirathan Waterfall, Pa Dok Siew Waterfall, Mae Klang Luang Village.
Day 9 – Elephant Sanctuary & Handicraft Village Tour & Fly to Bangkok: Visit Kanta Elephant Sanctuary, learn Thai craft workshop on San Kamphaeng Road, and savor Thai street food on Khao San Road.
Day 10 – Depart from Bangkok.
>>> For the detailed tour itinerary, please check out An Ultimate Escape to Nature of Northern Vietnam and Thailand 10 Days.
Itinerary 3: Cultural Tour
Day 1 – Arrive in Hanoi (Vietnam), Evening Street Food Tour: Check out Thanh Ha Market, Dong Xuan Market, the Old Quarter, and Hang Cot Street to taste various street food, desserts, and drinks of Hanoi.
Day 2 – Hanoi History Tour: Visit Hang Be Market, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Museum of Ethnology, Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Complex, and One Pillar Pagoda.
Day 3 – Transfer to Ha Long Bay: Board an overnight cruise to discover the bay.
Day 4 – Explore Ha Long Bay, Return to Hanoi, Fly to Ho Chi Minh City: Kayak and explore limestone caves before driving back to Hanoi and taking a flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 5 – Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh City Tour: Visit Cu Chi Tunnels and then the Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Ben Thanh Market.
Day 6 – Explore the Mekong Delta by Boat & Bike: Ride a boat along the Ben Tre River, learn how coconut candies are made, and explore the riverside village by bike. Return to Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 7 – Fly to Bangkok (Thailand), Oasis Spa Massage: Explore Bangkok at your own pace. Visit the Chinatown or Chatuchak Market for street food and shopping. Enjoy a luxury massage at Oasis Spa.
Day 8 – Bangkok Temples & Palaces Tour, Street Food Experience: Explore Wat Traimit, Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace. Ride a tuk-tuk through Bangkok.
Day 9 – Ayutthaya & Bang-Pa-In Tour: Explore Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, Wat Yai Chaimongkol, Bang-Pa-In. Return to Bangkok.
Day 10 – Bangkok departure.
>>> For the detailed tour itinerary, please check out A Vibrant Cultural Exploration of Vietnam and Thailand in 10 Days.
Tips for Your 10 Days in Vietnam and Thailand
Packaging Tips for Vietnam and Thailand
- Check the Weather: Vietnam and Thailand have tropical climates, so lightweight and breathable clothing is essential. However, it’s also worth considering the cooler evenings in northern Vietnam during the winter season. Based on the time of your tour, we will inform you of the weather conditions and help you pack appropriate clothing and accessories for the trip.
- Layering Options: As mentioned, northern Vietnam can get chilly during certain months. Pack a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Additionally, a lightweight scarf or shawl can come in handy for visiting temples where modest dress is required or for adding an extra layer of warmth.
- Comfortable Footwear: Ensure you have comfortable footwear suitable for walking and exploring various terrains. Pack a pair of sturdy walking shoes or sneakers for city tours and excursions.
- Travel Documents: Keep all your important travel documents organized and readily accessible. This includes your passport, visas, flight tickets, hotel reservations, travel insurance information, and any other necessary identification or documentation.
- Light Daypack: Bring a lightweight daypack or tote bag that you can comfortably carry during day trips. This will come in handy for storing essentials like a water bottle, sunscreen, snacks, a camera, and a guidebook.
Souvenirs to Buy in Vietnam and Thailand
Van Phuc patterns silk
- Silk Products: Vietnam and Thailand are both known for their exquisite, lustrous silk products. Look for silk scarves, clothing, or even home decor items like silk lanterns that showcase the country’s rich textile heritage.
- Handmade Crafts: Support local artisans by buying handmade crafts such as embroidered textiles, bamboo products, or ceramic pottery from regions like Hoi An. Thailand is also home to a variety of traditional handicrafts. Consider purchasing intricately carved wooden items, delicate Thai porcelain, or handwoven baskets and bags.
- Vietnamese Coffee: Vietnam is famous for its delicious coffee. Purchase some high-quality Vietnamese coffee beans or pre-packaged coffee products to enjoy the taste of Vietnam at home.
- Thai Snacks and Spices: Explore the local markets and stock up on Thai snacks like dried fruits, coconut candies, or spicy chili sauces. You can also find aromatic Thai spices and curry pastes to spice up your culinary adventures back home.
>>> Check out our recommendations of Best Vietnam Souvenirs to Bring Home, if you want to know beforehand what you should look for in Vietnamese souvenir stores!
From the awe-inspiring temples and UNESCO World Heritage sites to the bustling markets and serene landscapes, this Vietnam and Thailand 10-day itinerary will offer a taste of the rich cultural tapestry that these countries possess. Are you interested in discovering the incredible experiences, sights, and flavors in Vietnam and Thailand? Contact us for any questions or requests you might have about the itinerary, and let us make the trip perfect for you from start to finish!
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