Is 9 Days Enough for Vietnam from Australia? A Complete Guide to Your Dream Adventure
Is 9 Days Enough for Vietnam from Australia? Vietnam, with its dramatic landscapes, vibrant cities, rich culture, and flavorful cuisine, has become a must-visit destination for Australian travelers. If you’re considering a holiday and wondering whether 9 days in Vietnam from Australia is enough—good news: it absolutely can be!
This guide will help you make the most of your time, providing a well-balanced itinerary, travel tips, and highlights that will ensure you leave with unforgettable memories.
Why Choose Vietnam for a 9-Day Trip?
For Australians looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, Vietnam offers exceptional value. The country is relatively close—around 8–9 hours by direct flight from Sydney or Melbourne to Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi—and offers everything from lush mountains to tropical beaches, ancient towns to cosmopolitan cities.
With proper planning, 9 days in Vietnam from Australia is enough to visit three major regions: North, Central, and South Vietnam.
Suggested 9-Day Itinerary for Vietnam from Australia
Is 9 Days Enough for Vietnam from Australia? This sample itinerary is tailored to help Australians explore Vietnam from top to bottom in a seamless, exciting journey.
Day 1–2: Arrive in Hanoi – Discover Northern Charm
Flight Suggestion: Fly overnight from Australia and arrive in Hanoi the next morning.
Explore:
The Old Quarter’s narrow streets, colonial architecture, and street food stalls.
Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple.
A traditional water puppet show in the evening.
Eat: Bun Cha, Pho, and egg coffee.
Tip: Use Grab (a ride-hailing app) for affordable and safe transport.
Day 3–4: Halong Bay – Cruise the UNESCO Wonder
Travel: 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi.
Experience:
Board an overnight cruise to explore emerald waters and limestone islands.
Activities include kayaking, swimming, and visiting caves.
Enjoy fresh seafood on board.
Note: Book a reputable cruise for a more luxurious experience, such as Paradise Cruises or Indochina Sails.
Day 5: Fly to Da Nang – Transfer to Hoi An
Fly: Hanoi to Da Nang (1.5 hours).
Drive: 45 minutes to Hoi An Ancient Town.
Evening: Explore Hoi An Lantern Market, take a boat ride, and enjoy the calm vibes.
Day 6: Hoi An – Culture, Tailoring, and Relaxation
Explore:
Wander through yellow-walled alleys and historic architecture.
Visit Japanese Bridge and old merchant houses.
Get custom clothing made at a local tailor.
Chill: Spend the afternoon at An Bang Beach or enjoy a cooking class.
Bonus: Rent a bicycle and visit Tra Que Vegetable Village or rice paddies.
Day 7: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Welcome to the South
Fly: Da Nang to HCMC (1.5 hours).
Discover:
War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace for a glimpse of Vietnam’s history.
Ben Thanh Market for shopping and street food.
Nightlife on Bui Vien Street (optional).
Day 8: Mekong Delta or Cu Chi Tunnels Day Trip
Option 1: Mekong Delta – Boat ride through canals, visit coconut candy workshops, and taste tropical fruits.
Option 2: Cu Chi Tunnels – Learn about the underground life of Viet Cong soldiers during the war.
Day 9: Departure
Enjoy a relaxing breakfast and local coffee before heading to the airport for your return flight to Australia.
Flight from HCMC to Sydney or Melbourne is approximately 8–9 hours.
Travel Tips for Australians Visiting Vietnam
1. Visa Requirements
Australian passport holders need a visa to enter Vietnam.
Consider applying online for an e-visa (valid for 90 days, multiple entries as of 2023).
2. Currency & Budget
Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND).
Credit cards are accepted in hotels and some restaurants, but cash is best for small purchases.
Daily budget varies:
Budget: ~$60 AUD/day
Mid-range: ~$100 AUD/day
Luxury: ~$200+ AUD/day
3. Internet & SIM Cards
Buy a local SIM card at the airport (Viettel or Mobifone).
Free Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes and hotels
Is 9 Days in Vietnam from Australia Enough?
Yes! 9 days in Vietnam from Australia is enough to get a rich, immersive taste of the country’s diversity. You can experience:
The cultural and culinary richness of Hanoi and Hoi An.
Natural wonders like Halong Bay.
The energy and historical depth of Ho Chi Minh City.
Day trips that reveal both rural life and war history.
If you have more time, you can extend your stay in beach destinations like Da Nang or Nha Trang. But even in 9 days, you’ll cover plenty—and leave with a deep appreciation for Vietnam’s warmth and charm.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with family, 9 days in Vietnam from Australia is more than just a holiday—it’s a journey into a country where the past and present meet through sights, sounds, and flavors. With direct flights, an easy e-visa process, and friendly locals, Vietnam is a perfect destination for Australians seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery in a compact time frame.
Ready to plan your trip? Start packing and let Vietnam surprise you at every turn.
External resources:
Travelling from Australia to Vietnam: flights, tips + tours
Is 9 Days In Vietnam From The UK Enough? A Complete Itinerary For First-Time Travelers
