Tour Highlights
- Explore bustling Hanoi, dine in style.
- Cruise through stunning Halong Bay, sleep on cruise.
- Trek picturesque Sapa, immerse in local hill tribe culture.
- Discover historic Hue, visit Citadel, cruise Perfume River.
- Immerse in charming Hoi An, cook, explore vibrant markets.
- Experience vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, visit Cu Chi Tunnels, explore Mekong Delta.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Tour Route: Hanoi – Sapa – Halong Bay – Hue – Hoi An – Nha Trang – Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Cu Chi Tunnels – Mekong Delta
Duration: 21 Days/ 20 Nights
Date: No fixed departure dates. You may go whenever you wish
Start/ End: Hanoi/ Saigon
Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Active Level: Moderate, Easy Walking, Trekking, and Kayaking
BRIEF ITINERARY
North Vietnam Itinerary 8 Days
Day 1: Hanoi Arrival (D)
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour (B)
Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay (Overnight on cruise) (B, L, D)
Day 4: Halong Bay (Overnight on cruise) (B, L, D)
Day 5: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Night Train to Sapa (B, L)
Day 6: Sapa Trekking Tour (B, L, D)
Day 7: Sapa – Homestay (B, L, D)
Day 8: Sapa – Night Train to Hanoi (B, L)
Central Vietnam Itinerary 9 Days
Day 9: Hanoi – Fly to Hue – City Tour (B, L)
Day 10: Hue Boat Trip & Transfer to Hoi An (B)
Day 11: Hoi An Walking Tour & Cooking Class (B, L, D)
Day 12: Hoi An Impression Theme Park – Memories Show
Day 13: Hoi An – Danang – Fly to Nha Trang (B)
Day 14: Nha Trang Island & Snorkeling Tour (B, L)
Day 15: Nha Trang – Leisure Day (B)
Day 16: Nha Trang – Transfer to Dalat (B)
Day 17: Dalat City Tour (B, D)
South Vietnam Itinerary 4 Days
Day 18: Dalat – Fly to Saigon (B)
Day 19: Saigon City Tour & Cu Chi Tunnels (B)
Day 20: Saigon City – Mekong Delta (B, L)
Day 21: Saigon Departure (B)
FULL ITINERARY
Day 1: Hanoi Arrival (D)
Upon arrival in Hanoi, you'll be greeted by Viet Vision Travel's local tour guide and driver. They will escort you to your hotel where you can unwind after your journey. Later, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant in town. Overnight stay in Hanoi.
Note: If your flight arrives in the morning and you wish to explore with a half-day tour, please let us know so we can provide you with optional tour choices.
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour (B)
After breakfast at the hotel, our itinerary begins with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where we'll explore Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, his stilt house, the Presidential Palace, and the iconic One Pillar Pagoda. Next, we proceed to the Temple of Literature, originally dedicated to Confucius and dating back to 1070, serving as Vietnam’s first university and a revered spot for students seeking academic success.
Following lunch, our journey continues with a visit to the Museum of Ethnology, renowned as the country’s finest, showcasing extensive exhibits on Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minority groups. Returning to the city center, we embark on a one-hour cyclo tour through the Old Quarter, known for its labyrinthine streets housing countless small businesses. Our day concludes with a delightful performance of the traditional Water Puppet show.
Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay (Overnight on cruise) (B, L, D)
Today, we journey to Halong Bay via the Red River Delta, making a brief stop for relaxation halfway through our drive. By midday, we arrive at Tuan Chau Pier where we board our cruise. Welcomed warmly by the crew, we settle in and savor a delicious seafood lunch as we sail further into the Bay.
In the afternoon, our itinerary includes a visit to Sung Sot Cave, also known as the Amazing Cave, followed by opportunities to swim, kayak, or simply relax amidst the bay's serene beauty. As sunset approaches, we unwind on the sundeck with our favorite drinks in hand. Later, we gather for a delightful dinner aboard the cruise, where we will spend the night.
Day 4: Halong Bay Exploration Tour (Overnight on cruise) (B, L, D)
After breakfast, we embark on a day boat to explore different areas of Halong Bay, particularly enjoying kayaking amidst the serene landscapes of Lan Ha Bay. Today promises numerous photo opportunities, including a deserted lagoon and a tranquil floating village, with the chance to witness the sun's last rays casting reflections over this beautiful area.
We'll indulge in a BBQ lunch on the beach and take a refreshing swim at a secluded and peaceful beach, adjusting our plans as needed based on the daily tide conditions. By day's end, we return to our overnight cruise in Halong Bay, where we'll enjoy dinner and spend the night.
Day 5: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Night Train to Sapa (B, L)
Today, the crew will escort us to Titov Island, offering opportunities to swim or hike to the summit for panoramic views of the Bay. Following this adventure, we'll participate in a cooking demonstration and enjoy a delicious lunch onboard. By midday, we return to the pier and begin our journey back to Hanoi, where we will catch an overnight train to Sapa.
Day 6: Sapa Trekking Tour (B, L, D)
Upon arriving at Lao Cai Railway Station this morning, we'll be greeted by a local tour guide and driver who will accompany us on our journey up to Sapa town. After breakfast at a local restaurant, we'll embark on a brief excursion to Cat Cat village, where we'll encounter the Black Hmong ethnic minority and enjoy breathtaking views of the valley.
The remainder of the afternoon is free for us to explore Sapa town at our leisure. We'll spend the night in Sapa, immersing ourselves in its charm and beauty.
Day 7: Sapa – Homestay (B, L, D)
This morning, we check out of our hotel and depart from the bustling town, heading towards Muong Hoa Valley where we will spend the night in a local house. Our trek begins downhill to Lao Chai and Ta Van villages, home to the Black Hmong ethnic minority. Along the way, we'll pause to admire a waterfall and an old hydroelectric station, then continue our journey along a scenic dirt trail winding through rice paddy terraces.
For lunch, we'll stop at Y Linh Ho, another village of the Black Hmong, where we can enjoy the fresh air and relax near a nearby river area.
Day 8: Sapa – Night Train to Hanoi (B, L)
After breakfast with our host this morning, we continue our trek through the bamboo forest within Hoang Lien National Park, heading towards Giang Ta Chai village where the Red Dao ethnic minority resides. We'll pause for lunch at a pleasant spot in the village before proceeding with our trek to Su Pan, a nearby small village situated along the road.
Upon reaching Su Pan, our waiting vehicle will transport us back to Sapa town and then to Lao Cai Railway Station, where we will catch our night train back to Hanoi.
Day 9: Hanoi – Fly to Hue – City Tour Half-day (B, L)
After our overnight train journey, we'll take a morning flight to Hue. Upon arrival, we'll be met by our tour guide and driver who will transfer us to the hotel. Later in the day, we'll explore the Citadel, also known as The Forbidden City, and visit Dong Ba Market. We'll spend the night in Hue, immersing ourselves in its rich history and vibrant culture.
Day 10: Hue Boat Trip & Transfer to Hoi An (B)
After breakfast, our day begins with a serene dragon boat journey along the Perfume River, heading towards Thien Mu Pagoda where we'll enjoy panoramic views of Hue city. Following this, we'll visit King Khai Dinh’s tomb and Tu Duc’s tomb, exploring the impressive architecture and historical significance of these royal mausoleums.
In the afternoon, we drive southward to Hoi An via Hai Van Pass & Danang city with Cham Museum, Non-Nuoc Beach, and Marble Mountain. Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 11: Hoi An Walking Tour & Cooking Class (B, L, D)
Today, we start with a morning walking tour of Hoi An town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved traditional architecture. The town's old houses and waterside buildings reflect influences from various Asian cultures. Hoi An is also renowned for its affordable tailor-made clothing.
In the afternoon, we'll participate in a delightful cooking class at Red Bridge restaurant. Our first stop will be at the vibrant Hoi An market to immerse ourselves in its bustling atmosphere, sights, sounds, and aromas. Here, we'll select fresh ingredients for our cooking session later.
Next, we'll board a boat at Red Bridge for a leisurely 25-minute cruise along the Hoi An River to the Red Bridge Cooking School. We'll explore the school's herb and vegetable garden before learning to prepare some of Hoi An's and Vietnam's iconic dishes during a 2-hour cooking lesson. Each dish will be demonstrated by Red Bridge chefs, and then we'll have the opportunity to recreate it ourselves. The class will also include a brief introduction to Vietnamese food carving for plate decoration. After cooking, we'll enjoy the dishes we've prepared. We'll spend the night in Hoi An, continuing to savor the town's charm.
Day 12: Hoi An Impression Theme Park – Memories Show (B, L)
This morning you have free time to explore Hoi An at your leisure. In the afternoon, visit Hoi An Impression Park where you can deeply experience the essence of Hoi An's culture and traditions, including Vietnamese ancient villages and the historic Hoi An old quarter. In the evening, step back in time with the Memory Loom and immerse yourself in the rich history of Hoi An and Quang Nam.
Part 1: Life The journey begins with the birth of new life, marking the dawn of a new era. This is the story woven by the millennia-old loom, where silk threads spin tales of white Ao Dai, symbolizing the essence of "Life."
Part 2: Wedding Inspired by the historic tale of Princess Huyen Tran and King Che Man's union, "Wedding" vividly recreates the vibrant scenes of Hoi An's golden past and its commitment to peace and prosperity.
Part 3: Lamp & The Sea Celebrating the courageous sons of Hoi An who brave the seas, "Lamp & The Sea" portrays their enduring spirit in facing challenges, guided by the unwavering light of home and the steadfast love of Hoi An's daughters.
Part 4: Trading Port The Memory Loom weaves through time to illuminate a vibrant space where Hoi An's bustling trading port, once known as Faifo, thrived with cultural exchanges and the importation of civilized values from around the globe.
Part 5: Ao Dai Through the passage of time, Hoi An has endured and retained its serene and poetic beauty, akin to the grace of a Vietnamese girl's Ao Dai—a timeless symbol of our country's boundless elegance.
After the show, you're free to explore Hoi An further or return to your hotel at your leisure.
Day 13: Hoi An – Danang & Fly to Nha Trang (B)
Our driver will take us to Danang International Airport for our morning flight to Nha Trang beach city. Upon arrival, we will be warmly welcomed and have the rest of the day to relax at the beach. Overnight stay in Nha Trang, enjoying the coastal charm of this beautiful city.
Day 14: Nha Trang Islands & Snorkeling Tour Half-day (B, L)
This morning, we embark on a boat trip to Mieu Island to explore the Tri Nguyen Aquarium, showcasing a diverse array of marine species from Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa Province. We then continue to Mun Island for snorkeling, where vibrant coral reefs and marine life await. Our journey proceeds to Mot Island and Tranh Beach Island, where we can relax, swim, or participate in water sports activities. Along the way, we'll also admire the sea swallow nests on the rocky islands. Lunch will be served on one of the islands, and we'll return to the hotel around 4 pm after a fulfilling day of exploration and relaxation.
Day 15: Nha Trang Leisure Day (B)
Today is a day for relaxation and enjoyment in Nha Trang. You can choose to spend your day relaxing at the beach, exploring Vinpearl Theme Park, visiting Thap Ba Ponagar, or indulging in a rejuvenating mud bath and spa experience.
Day 16: Nha Trang – Dalat (B)
After breakfast, we'll journey to Dalat, with opportunities to stop along the way for photos or moments of relaxation. We'll arrive in the "Romance City" in the afternoon and unwind upon arrival.
Day 17: Dalat City Tour (B, D)
Today, we'll explore the 7 most remarkable places in Dalat. We begin at Robin Hill, situated at 1,650m, offering panoramic views of the romantic city of Dalat. Next, we visit Truc Lam Zen Monastery, Vietnam's largest Zen Monastery, accessible via cable car. We then proceed to Tuyen Lam Lake, renowned as one of Dalat's most beautiful lakes, followed by a visit to Bao Dai Summer Palace, once the residence of Vietnam's last emperor, Bao Dai, who ruled from 1949 to 1954.
In the afternoon, our itinerary includes a visit to the Crazy House, a whimsically designed concrete structure entwined around trees. We'll also explore Dalat Railway Station, notable for its architectural style and vintage steam locomotive. We'll take a 7km train ride to Trai Mat through scenic vegetable farms. Linh Phuoc Pagoda is next on our list, known for its vibrant decorations made from tens of thousands of beer bottles and broken ceramic pieces. Lastly, we'll visit a village of the Lat minority, where traditional wooden and thatched huts are still home to the local people. Dinner will be enjoyed at a local restaurant, concluding our day of exploration in Dalat.
Day 18: Dalat – Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (B)
This morning, we'll take a flight from Dalat to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, we'll have the remainder of the day to relax and unwind. Overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City, where we can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling metropolis.
Day 19: Ho Chi Minh Tour & Cu Chi Tunnels (B)
Depending on the weather today, our schedule may vary. If it's the rainy season, we'll visit the Cu Chi Tunnels in the morning and follow with a city tour in the afternoon, as planned by our tour guide.
The Cu Chi Tunnels, also known as the "Iron Triangle" or "Iron Land," are located approximately 70km from Ho Chi Minh City, requiring over an hour's drive through picturesque countryside, passing rubber plantations and rice paddies. Upon arrival, we'll watch an introductory video detailing the construction of the tunnels before exploring the network, which has been widened for visitors. We'll see various mantraps, remnants of a US tank, and bomb craters left by B52 bombers. For those interested, there's an opportunity to try real guns and bullets (at own expense, US$1/bullet).
After our Cu Chi Tunnels tour, we'll return to Ho Chi Minh City for a half-day city tour. Highlights include the Reunification Palace, formerly the Presidential Palace of South Vietnam's President; the War Remnants Museum, displaying artifacts, photographs, and exhibits from the Vietnam War; as well as visits to Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Post Office. Before heading back to our hotel, we'll have time to explore Ben Thanh Market. Overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 20: Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta (B, L)
After breakfast today, you'll be picked up from your hotel for a day tour to the Mekong Delta, starting with a visit to the vibrant Cai Be floating market and surrounding islands.
The Cai Be floating market is a bustling wholesale market where locals use small boats to trade goods, fruits, and agricultural products from larger boats. It operates from early morning until late morning. After exploring the market, we'll board a rowing boat to venture deeper into the countryside, navigating smaller canals to visit authentic Vietnamese island villages and interact with local residents.
Following lunch at a local house, we'll have the opportunity to bike ride along village paths, soaking in the rural scenery and local life. Later, we'll return by boat to the city and then travel back to Ho Chi Minh City in our own vehicle.
Day 21: Ho Chi Minh City Departure (B)
Today, our designated vehicle will transfer us back to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for our departure flight, marking the conclusion of our 3-week Vietnam tour itinerary.
See you again on the next trips with Indochina Tours!
Inclusions
- Private ground transfers and transportations
- English speaking guide (other languages upon request)
- Accommodation with daily breakfast, rooms based on 2 people per room, extra bed upon request
- Train tickets round trip Hanoi – Lao Cai – Hanoi; 1 cabin with 4 berths, air conditioning, soft sleeper, good condition.
- Home-stay in Sapa
- Meals indicated in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
- Junk cruise in Halong Bay
- Kayaking
- Cooking demonstration on the Halong Bay cruise
- All entrance fees and permits
- Water puppet show in Hanoi
- Cyclo ride in Hanoi
- Private boat in Hue
- Boat trip in Hoi An
- Cooking class in Hoi An
- Snorkeling gear in Nha Trang
- Round trip cable car in Dalat
- Private boat trip in Mekong Delta
- Domestic flight ticket Hanoi – Hue; Danang – Nha Trang, Dalat – Ho Chi Minh city
- Airport tax
- Bottle during the trip
- Government tax and service charge
Exclusions
- International flight tickets
- Airport tax
- Personal expenses
- Meals not indicated
- Visa and visa fee
- Tips for tour guides, drivers and others
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