How to Travel Alone in Vietnam: A 17-Day Solo Itinerary North to South  

Solo travel is becoming one of the most exciting ways to explore the world. For adventurous, independent travelers, Vietnam is a dream destination — rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, yet safe and welcoming for visitors of all backgrounds.

If you're wondering how to travel alone in Vietnam, or looking for the perfect Vietnam solo itinerary, this guide is for you. We’ve designed a 17-day solo adventure North to South — complete with insider tips — so you can experience the very best of Vietnam at your own pace.

 

Why Vietnam is Perfect for Solo Travel  

Vietnam ticks all the boxes for solo travelers:

✅ Safe and friendly: Vietnam ranks as one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia for tourists. Violent crime is very low and locals are known for their warmth and hospitality.

✅ Incredible diversity: ancient cities and imperial capitals to emerald bays and tropical beaches, Vietnam offers endless variety in scenery and culture.

✅ Affordable: Vietnam is one of the best-value travel destinations in the world. Delicious street food, beautiful accommodations, and local experiences are all budget-friendly.

✅ Great infrastructure: Well-connected domestic flights, comfortable trains, and efficient transport make solo travel easy to manage.

✅ Welcoming solo culture: It’s very common to meet other solo travelers here. Friendly locals and tour guides are also happy to help you connect.

 

How to Prepare for Your Solo Trip to Vietnam  

• Get your visa in advance (many countries are eligible for Vietnam e-visa — super easy)

• Travel insurance is recommended

• Use Google Maps offline and ride apps like Grab

• Pack light: breathable clothes, sunscreen, comfy shoes

• Book a trusted tour operator like Asianwaytravel — for expert planning, reliable guides, and 24/7 support

 

17-Day Vietnam Solo Itinerary  

(suggested by Asianwaytravel)

Day 1-3: Hanoi — The Cultural Capital  

Start your journey in Vietnam’s charming capital.

Top things to do solo in Hanoi:

• Explore the Old Quarter’s bustling streets ????

• Visit the Temple of Literature & Hoan Kiem Lake

• Join a street food tour — best way to meet other foodies ????

• Sip egg coffee at a hidden cafe ☕

• Stroll around West Lake at sunset ????

Solo tip: Stay in a boutique hotel near Hoan Kiem Lake for easy access to everything on foot.

Day 4-5: Ha Long Bay — Cruise the Natural Wonder  

Take a 2-day, 1-night luxury cruise through Ha Long Bay — a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Why perfect for solo travelers:

• Cruises are shared — great chance to meet fellow travelers ????️

• Enjoy kayaking, cooking classes, cave explorations

• Relax on the sundeck with a cocktail — pure bliss ☀️

Solo tip: Join the sunrise Tai Chi session on deck — peaceful and restorative.

Day 6-7: Hue — Imperial Beauty  

Fly to Hue, the ancient imperial capital of Vietnam.

What to explore:

• The Imperial Citadel & Forbidden Purple City ????

• Dragon boat ride on the Perfume River

• Thien Mu Pagoda & royal tombs

Solo tip: Take a guided motorbike tour — a fun, safe way to see Hue like a local! ????️

Day 8-10: Hoi An & Da Nang — Timeless Charm  

Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most magical towns — especially perfect for solo travelers.

Things to do:

• Wander the lantern-lit ancient streets ✨

• Join a Vietnamese cooking class

• Visit nearby An Bang Beach

• Snap pics at Golden Bridge in Ba Na Hills

• Enjoy tailor-made clothes — a signature experience ????

Solo tip: Enjoy Hoi An’s cafes and art galleries — great for slowing down.

Day 11-12: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) — Vibrant Metropolis  

Fly south to Vietnam’s dynamic commercial heart — Saigon.

Top solo-friendly activities:

• War Remnants Museum & Independence Palace ????️

• Explore street food in District 1 & District 4 ????

• Cu Chi Tunnels day trip

• Rooftop bar hopping at night ????

Solo tip: Book a guided city tour to learn history and meet new friends.

Day 13-17: Phu Quoc Beach Break — Island Bliss  

End your trip with 4-5 days on Phu Quoc Island — pure paradise for solo travelers.

What to do:

• Relax on Long Beach or Sao Beach ????️

• Snorkel or dive in An Thoi Archipelago

• Visit pepper farms, fish sauce factories, night markets

• Enjoy spa days & sunset cocktails ????

Solo tip: Stay at a beach resort — perfect for meeting other travelers at the pool or bar.

 

Plan Your Solo Adventure Today  

Vietnam is calling — and there’s no better way to explore it than on your own terms. Whether wandering ancient streets, cruising stunning bays, tasting street food, or soaking up the sun on a beach, this 17-day solo itinerary offers it all.

Ready to start your solo journey?
Contact Asianwaytravel today and let us help you plan the ultimate solo adventure through Vietnam!