15 Days Exploring Vietnam From North To South

Morning (7:45 – 8:30 AM): Embark on a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can delve into the architectural and historical significance of Uncle Ho’s final resting place. Adjacent to the mausoleum is Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, and nearby stands the One Pillar Pagoda, a structure founded by King Ly Thai To in 1049 that has evolved into a significant symbol for the people of Hanoi. Next, explore the Tran Quoc Pagoda at West Lake, one of Vietnam's oldest pagodas, and visit the Bat Trang pottery village (available on Mon, Wed & Fri).

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Post-lunch, your journey continues with a visit to the Ethnology Museum (available on Sun, Tue, Thu & Sat) and the Temple of Literature (Quoc Tu Giam), Vietnam’s inaugural university built in 1070. The museum showcases gardens and well-preserved architecture, offering a serene glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history. Passing by Hoan Kiem Lake, admire its tranquil waters and the charm of Ngoc Son Temple.

By 3:30 PM, you will be dropped off at your hotel in Hanoi's old quarter.

Overnight at a hotel in Hanoi.

Inclusion: Transportation; All entrance fees; English-speaking tour guide; Complimentary water; Accommodation in Hanoi.

Please complete the check-out process at the hotel, and you are welcome to leave your luggage there. Bring only essential items in your handbag for the trip, such as your passport, clothing, camera, walking shoes, sandals, and any other necessary items.

8:00 – 8:30 AM: Your tour guide and the bus will pick you up from the hotel. We will head to Halong Bay with a 4-hour journey and a short break along the way.

12:45 PM: Arrival at Halong Harbor. The friendly crew will greet you on board with a Welcome drink. Check into your cabin and savor a traditional Vietnamese lunch.

After lunch, enjoy free time for sunbathing on the sundeck and capture memorable photos while cruising amidst the numerous mountains.

3:00 PM: The cruise anchors in the heart of Halong Bay. Explore Sung Sot Cave (Amazing Cave), one of the largest and most beautiful caves in the area.

4:00 PM: Head to Ti Tov Island, where you can hike to the top for panoramic views of the entire bay, sunbathe on the sandy beach, and swim in the crystal-clear water.

5:15 PM: Return to the boat. Experience the Sunset time with fruit and wine.

Our onboard chef will conduct a Cooking Demonstration, sharing the art of making Vietnamese spring rolls. You'll even get the chance to try making them yourself.

7:00 PM: Dinner will be served, featuring a variety of delicious Vietnamese dishes.

After dinner, you have free time to watch a movie, play cards, or participate in the Squid fishing game.

Overnight on board.

Inclusion: Transportation; All entrance fees; English-speaking tour guide; Welcome drink; Sung Sot Cave (Amazing Cave); Titov Island (Hiking, swimming, sunbathing); Sunset Party (Free fruit & a glass of wine); Cooking Demonstration; Complimentary water

It's advisable to rise a bit early to relish the enchanting sunrise in Halong Bay – a delightful moment during your journey.

8:15 AM: Embark on a kayaking adventure amidst the majestic mountains, allowing you to explore the beauty of Halong Bay at your own pace.

9:30 AM: Return to the cruise and check out of your cabin.

Subsequently, take some leisure time to relax on the sundeck and appreciate the bay's scenic views.

11:00 AM: A brunch will be served. Enjoy your meal while the cruise makes its way back to Halong harbor.

12:30 PM: Board the bus for the return journey to Hanoi, with a short break midway.

4:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Arrive at your hotel in Hanoi city.

Overnight at a hotel in Hanoi.

Inclusion: Transportation; All entrance fees; English-speaking tour guide; Kayaking; Tai Chi lesson; Complimentary water

8:00 AM – 8:30 AM: Your driver and tour guide will rendezvous with you at your hotel to commence the Hoa Lu – Tam Coc tour.

The bus will make a brief stop halfway for a rest break after an hour and a half on the road. Take advantage of this opportunity to stretch your legs and capture some photos of the picturesque countryside.

Continue the journey to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the 10th century, under the rule of two dynasties: Dinh and Le. Immerse yourself in the history, culture, architecture, and evolution of Vietnam through visits to the temples of King Dinh and King Le.

Next, the bus will transfer you to a local restaurant for a buffet lunch featuring a variety of delectable local dishes, with goat meat being a renowned specialty in Ninh Binh.

Following lunch, your tour guide will provide insights into Tam Coc before you embark on a serene rowing boat excursion along the Ngo Dong River. As the river winds through the mountains, you'll feel as though you're in the most tranquil and beautiful place on earth. The boat journey takes you through three caves (Hang Ca, Hang Hai, Hang Ba). Witness the breathtaking "Halong Bay on land" and engage with local farmers working in the rice fields, offering a unique glimpse into the countryside life of Vietnam.

After the boat ride in Tam Coc, hop on a bicycle to navigate through the paddy fields and local villages, gaining insights into the simple daily lives of the locals.

4:00 PM: Return to the bus and journey back to Hanoi, bidding farewell to this charming locale.

6:30 PM: Arrive at your hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter.

Overnight at a hotel in Hanoi.

Inclusion: Transportation; All entrance fees; English-speaking tour guide; Rowing boat trip; Cycling excursion; Complimentary water; Hotel in Hanoi

Today is your free day to independently explore the charming city of Hanoi. Take your time to wander through the streets, observing the unique architecture, local life, and savoring the traditional foods. Engage in some souvenir shopping and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere.

As the designated transfer time approaches, your driver will pick you up and transport you to the train station for your journey to Hue. The train ride spans approximately 12 hours, providing you with the opportunity to witness the scenic beauty of Vietnam's countryside, observe the daily lives of local farmers, and pass through quaint and welcoming villages.

Overnight on the train.

Note: Please inform us if you prefer to take a flight!

Inclusion: Private train transfer, Train ticket Hanoi – Hue with soft sleeping berth

Upon your arrival at Hue train station, our driver will be there to greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, take the opportunity to explore Hue city at your own pace. As the historical capital of Vietnam, Hue holds significant cultural, religious, and educational importance. Nestled on the banks of the Perfume River (Huong River), Hue has played a central role in shaping Vietnam's heritage.

Overnight at your hotel in Hue.

Inclusion: Private train station pick-up; Hotel in Hue

Between 7:45 and 8:30, our tour guide and driver will be at your service, welcoming you upon arrival at Hue train station and commencing the Hue city tour.

Embark on a journey to:

Thien Mu Pagoda via a scenic dragon boat trip – the oldest pagoda in Hue city.
Imperial Citadel by car – the historic residence of Vietnam's last royal dynasty, the Nguyen Dynasty.
Hue Royal Antiques Museum – showcasing a collection of artifacts from the Nguyen Dynasty.
Dong Ba Market, offering a glimpse into the daily life of local residents.
A boat trip on Perfume River, revealing the local activities along the riverbanks.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, the exploration continues with visits to:

Khai Dinh King’s Tomb – a fascinating blend of Western and Eastern architectural styles.
Minh Mang King’s Tomb, where the grandeur and symmetry of architectural constructions leave a lasting impression.
Conical hat-making village and incense stick-making village.
Return to your hotel between 16:00 and 16:30 for an overnight stay in Hue.

Inclusion: Transportation; All entrance fees; English-speaking tour guide; Boat trip; Cycling; Complimentary water; Hotel in Hue

At 08:30 am, our driver will pick you up for your transfer to Hoi An. En route, you will have the opportunity to marvel at the Hai Van Giant Pass, renowned for being the largest pass in Vietnam, and a truly picturesque location in the central region.

Pause at Hai Van Pass to capture numerous breathtaking photos against the stunning landscape. Continuing the journey, you will drive through Da Nang city, enjoying an overview of its highlights, before heading to the charming Hoi An old town. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relish your free time in Hoi An.

Rest for the night at the hotel in Hoi An.

Inclusion: Private car from Hue to Hai Van Pass to Hoi An (Please inform us if you prefer a motorbike); Hotel in Hoi An; Complimentary water

Between 08:00 and 08:30, our bus and guide will collect you from your hotel or residence in Hoi An. As we depart Hoi An, crossing the Cua Dai bridge, be captivated by the magnificent views of the Hoi An river system, mountains, and Cham islands. Our destination is a bustling fishing village, where market traders display their fresh catches, offering excellent opportunities for memorable photographs.

At 09:45, we reach My Son, often referred to as the "Valley of Kings" by French historians, and once the capital of the Chăm Pa Kingdom from the 4th to the 15th century. A traditional dance performance precedes our walking tour of the Cham ruins, providing insights into the history of this religious site, which served as a burial ground for Cham monarchs centuries ago.

At 12:00, we begin our return journey to Hoi An. A boat trip on the Thu Bon River awaits, departing from Nguyen Hoang dock. Over approximately two hours, the boat will navigate through Duy Hai fishing village, Tra Nhieu weaving village, Kim Bong carpentry village, and Cam Thanh coconut jungle village.

By 15:30, the boat trip concludes at Nguyen Hoang dock in the old town. You are then free to explore the charming old town or make your way back to your accommodation.

Overnight at a Hoi An hotel.

Inclusion: Transportation; All entrance fees; English-speaking tour guide; Boat trip; Complimentary water; Hotel in Hoi An

Between 09:00 and 09:30 AM, our minivan will pick you up directly from your hotel. We'll transport you to the countryside, where bicycles await for an adventurous ride. If you're not comfortable riding bicycles, you can opt for our "XE OM" scooter service at an additional cost of 120,000 VND. Embark on a cycling journey to Cam Thanh Ecological Village, where local farmers will warmly welcome you into their community.

Engage in various farming activities alongside the local farmers, including plowing and raking with buffalo, riding water buffalo, learning the art of rice transplantation, flooding the farm, grinding rice, and pounding rice.

After the farming experience, our tour guide and van will take you to a local fishing village. Board a boat and join local fishermen on a Phuoc Hai fishing boat to try your hand at casting a local net known as CHAI. Explore the water coconut palm jungle, experience riding in a basket boat, and discover the secrets of the water coconut palm forest. Participate in an origami session, crafting items like grasshoppers, flowers, rings, caps, and bracelets from water coconut leaves. Enjoy the thrill of crab-catching around the water coconut palm forest. Following these activities, board the boat again, and Captain Cook will prepare lunch or dinner (depending on the time of day) along with cold beer or soft drinks. After the culinary delight, we'll return you to your hotel.

At 14:00, you'll be back at your hotel, where you have free time to explore the enchanting Hoi An old town.

Overnight at a hotel in Hoi An.

Inclusion: Mini-van for hotel pick-up and drop-off within Hoi An; English-speaking guide; Bicycles; Helmet; Boat cruise with Vietnamese bamboo basket boats; Basket boat dancing performance; Origami lesson (crafting bird, grasshopper, flower, etc.); Numerous photo opportunities; Complimentary water.

Explore the charming ambiance of Hoi An's ancient town, where you can unwind and immerse yourself in traditional customs and architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through the town, capturing photographs of the old houses that reflect a blend of Chinese and Japanese influences. Indulge in the delightful experience of sipping coffee along the riverside—an activity that promises lasting memories.

Our driver will pick you up from the hotel and transfer you to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arriving at Tan Son Nhat Airport in HCM City, our driver will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel.

Overnight at a hotel in HCM City.

Inclusion: Private airport transfer and pick-up in Da Nang and HCM City; Flight ticket from Da Nang to HCM City with 20kg checked luggage and 7kg hand luggage; Hotel in HCM City.

08:00 - 08:30: Your hotel will be the starting point where our tour guide and driver will pick you up. We will then embark on a journey to Cu Chi, situated 60 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Recognized as a heroic district due to its significant role in the anti-American war, Cu Chi is renowned for its extensive tunnel system spanning over 220 km. It has become a popular destination for both local and international visitors.

The picturesque landscape features tranquil rice paddies with ducks and water buffalos leisurely swimming in the nearby rivers. Despite the current peaceful setting, it is challenging to envision the destruction and defoliation caused by bombing and mines during the time when Cu Chi was a "Free Target Zone." The remnants scattered across the area serve as tangible evidence of the fierce battleground.

While at Cu Chi, you'll have the opportunity to experience crawling through the tunnels (Note: This may not be suitable for individuals with larger body sizes or advanced age).

13:00: Return to Ho Chi Minh City.

14:00: Arrive at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Overnight at a hotel in HCM City.

Inclusion: Transportation; All entrance fees; English speaking tour guide; Complimentary water; Hotel in HCM City.

07:30 - 08:15: Your driver and tour guide will pick you up from your hotel, signaling the start of your journey away from the vibrant urban landscape of Ho Chi Minh City. Your destination is My Tho, a town situated on the left bank of the Mekong River. Begin your exploration by boarding a sampan, cruising along the river that unfolds its charm with four enchanting islands: Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise.

Make a stop at Unicorn Island, where you can stroll along country lanes, immerse yourself in orchards, savor tropical fruits, and relish the folk songs performed by the local residents. Take the opportunity to visit a fruit plantation.

Embark on a hand-rowed sampan ride through Thoi Son canal, allowing yourself to absorb the scenic beauty of the countryside. Visit a family business, explore a honey-bee farm, and indulge in a delightful session of honey tea and coconut candy making.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, providing a moment to relax and refuel for the afternoon activities.

In the afternoon, you have the chance to cycle around Tan Thach village, interacting with local villagers to gain insights into their daily lives in the Mekong Delta. For those not participating in the cycling excursion, enjoy a peaceful time in a hammock, taking in the refreshing breeze. Finally, return to Ho Chi Minh City.

17:00: Drop-off at your hotel.

Overnight at a hotel in HCM City.

Inclusion: Transportation; English speaking tour guide; Boat trip; All entrance fees; Complimentary water; Hotel in HCM City.

You have leisure time to explore Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace before the scheduled transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your departure flight. The journey concludes here.

Note:

Solo travelers choosing the Share Room option will be accommodated in a shared dorm room at the hostel during the vacation.

This is a group tour with different participants on each trip during your vacation.

Who should join? - This tour is suitable for everyone, including children.

Price structure: - The quoted price is on a per-person basis.

If you desire to extend the trip, add more nights in any city, or commence the journey from the South, please inform us!