If you dream of discovering Vietnam’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic local experiences in comfort and style, this 11-day tour is designed for you.
Highlights
• Authentic Encounters: Meet ethnic communities in the northern highlands.
• UNESCO Wonders: Overnight on cruise on Ha Long Bay & explore the Old City of Hue
• Hidden Gem: Explore Ninh Binh, “Halong Bay on Land” & the heart of Mekong Delta
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Hanoi – The Vibrant Capital of Vietnam
Welcome to Hanoi, a city where centuries-old traditions blend harmoniously with modern life. Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our guide or driver and transferred comfortably to your hotel in the heart of the city. On the way, enjoy your first glimpses of Hanoi’s dynamic streets, where motorbikes, colonial architecture, and tree-lined boulevards create a unique atmosphere.
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour – A Journey Through History and Culture
• Hanoi City Tour – A Journey Through History and Culture
After breakfast, begin your discovery of Hanoi, a city rich in history, culture, and charm. Your day starts at the Ho Chi Minh Complex, an important historical site. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (closed on Mondays and Fridays), Ba Dinh Square – where Vietnam’s independence was proclaimed – and the modest stilt house where Ho Chi Minh lived. Continue to the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, a unique architectural symbol rising from a serene lotus pond.
• Hanoi City Tour
In the afternoon, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, where fascinating exhibits showcase the diversity of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups, offering deep insights into local traditions and lifestyles. Later, explore the Old Quarter, the historic soul of Hanoi. Wander through its narrow streets, each once dedicated to a specific trade, and experience the vibrant daily life of locals. Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, where legend and tranquility meet.
• Hanoi City Tour
To end your day, savor Hanoi’s famous egg coffee in a cozy local café—an authentic and unforgettable experience that captures the spirit of the city. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 3: Hanoi – Mai Chau: Into the Peaceful Countryside
• Mai Chau visit
Leave behind the bustling city as you journey to Mai Chau, a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains and home to the White Thai ethnic community. Upon arrival around noon, check in at your hotel and enjoy some time to relax.
• Mai Chau visit
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the tranquil rural life with a cycling or walking tour through the countryside. Pass through traditional stilt houses, meet friendly locals, and admire lush rice paddies stretching across the valley. Explore charming villages such as Lac, Pom Coong, Van, and Chieng Sai, where time seems to slow down. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with local culture and enjoy the peaceful beauty of northern Vietnam. Dinner and overnight in Mai Chau.
Day 4: Mai Chau – Ninh Binh: “Halong Bay on Land” (Breakfast)
• Ninh Binh visit
After breakfast, depart for Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Halong Bay on land” due to its spectacular limestone karsts rising dramatically from rice fields and rivers. Upon arrival, enjoy a peaceful boat trip in Tam Coc, where you will gently glide along winding waterways passing through caves, rice paddies, and towering cliffs – a truly serene and scenic experience.
• Ninh Binh visit
Continue to Bich Dong Pagoda, beautifully set against a mountainside, offering both spiritual atmosphere and panoramic views. Later, visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, where you can learn about the country’s early dynasties in a calm and historic setting. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Day 5: Ninh Binh – Halong Bay Cruise (UNESCO World Heritage)
• Cruise on Halong Bay
Travel to the world-famous Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands. Upon arrival, board a traditional cruise boat and begin your journey through this breathtaking seascape. As you sail among the karst formations, you will feel as if you are entering another world.
• Cruise on Halong Bay
Enjoy a variety of activities such as kayaking through hidden lagoons, swimming in calm waters, or exploring fascinating caves. In the evening, savor a delicious seafood dinner onboard while watching the sunset over the bay – a truly magical moment.Overnight on the cruise.
Day 6: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Flight to Danang – Hoi An
• Halong – Hanoi – Flight to Danang – Move to Hoi An
At 6:30 AM, you may join a relaxing Tai Chi session on the sundeck while enjoying the sunrise over the bay. Breakfast will be served afterward as the cruise continues through Halong Bay. At around 11:00 AM, disembark from the cruise. Return to Hanoi and transfer to the airport with our private driver (without guide) for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, transfer to Hoi An. Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 7: Hoi An & Cam Thanh Village – Culture and Local Life
• Cam Thanh Village visit
In the morning, head to Cam Thanh Village, a peaceful rural area surrounded by coconut forests. Cycle through scenic countryside paths, then take a traditional basket boat ride along tranquil waterways. Experience local life firsthand and learn about traditional fishing techniques. Join a hands-on cooking class where you will prepare and taste authentic Vietnamese dishes made with fresh local ingredients.
• Hoi An Ancient Town visit
In the afternoon, return to Hoi An to explore its beautifully preserved Old Town. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, historic temples, old merchant houses, and bustling markets. As evening falls, the town glows with colorful lanterns, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere. Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 8: Hoi An – Hue: Discover the Imperial Heritage
• Hue city tour
Travel to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, known for its rich history and royal heritage. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s most iconic religious sites. Visit the Imperial Citadel, a vast complex that once housed the Nguyen Dynasty, and explore its ancient palaces, gates, and temples. In the afternoon, visit the serene Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, beautifully designed to reflect harmony with nature. Overnight in Hue.
Day 9: Hue – Ho Chi Minh City: A Dynamic Metropolis
• Ho Chi Minh City tour
Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest and most energetic city. Visit the Central Post Office, an architectural masterpiece, and the War Remnants Museum, offering powerful insights into Vietnam’s history. Explore District 5 (Chinatown), a lively area filled with markets, temples, and cultural diversity. End the day at Thien Hau Temple, known for its intricate design and spiritual ambiance. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 10: Saigon – Ben Tre – Saigon: The Green Heart of Vietnam
• Ben Tre visit
Travel to Ben Tre in the Mekong Delta, a region known for its lush landscapes and peaceful waterways. Take a boat trip along the river, passing coconut groves and local villages. Visit traditional workshops where bricks and coconut products are made by hand. Enjoy fresh fruits, local music, and a tuk-tuk ride through the countryside. Continue with a rowing boat trip along shaded canals for a truly relaxing experience. Lunch will be served at a riverside restaurant. Return to Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 11: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City
Enjoy your final breakfast in the hotel. Spend your free time relaxing or shopping before your transfer to the airport for departure. This marks the end of your unforgettable journey through Vietnam, filled with culture, nature, and memorable experiences.
Note: For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.
Includes
• 3★ to 5★ Hotels with twin/double rooms and daily breakfast
• 2 Internal flights: Hanoi – Da Nang, Hue – Ho Chi Minh City (Economy Class)
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary
• Private cars throughout the tour
• Bottled water provided in the vehicle
• Professional English-speaking guide (or other languages available with supplement)
• Entrance tickets and fees for attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
• Boat excursions in the Mekong Delta
Not suitable for
• People over 95 years
Important information
What to bring
• Driver’s license
• Comfortable shoes
• Camera
• Biodegradable sunscreen
• Comfortable clothes
• Cash
• Biodegradable insect repellent
Not allowed
• Alcoholic drinks in the vehicle
• Military-style clothing