This 17-days journey through Vietnam takes you from vibrant cities and lush countryside to tranquil beaches. Explore the cultural treasures of Hanoi, Hue, and Hoi An; cruise through the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay; wander through ancient villages; and uncover the daily rhythms of life in the Mekong Delta. The adventure concludes with three nights on Phu Quoc Island, where palm-fringed beaches and crystal-clear waters provide the perfect setting for relaxation.
Arrive in Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi. Your guide and driver will greet you at Noi Bai Airport and transfer you to the hotel in the Old Quarter. The rest of the day is free for you to relax after your flight or take a gentle walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, where locals gather for evening strolls and tai chi.
Dive into Hanoi’s vibrant culture and history. Start with a cyclo ride through the Old Quarter’s narrow streets, once home to traditional guilds. Continue to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, and Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, before visiting the sacred One Pillar Pagoda. Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, then enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Ethnology to learn about the country’s diverse ethnic groups. The day ends with a traditional water puppet show, a uniquely Vietnamese art form that brings folklore to life.
Leave Hanoi behind and journey into the mountains toward Pu Luong, a hidden paradise of terraced fields and rural life. Stop at a scenic pass with sweeping views of the valley. Cross a suspension bridge to witness traditional bamboo water wheels, then enjoy a peaceful bamboo rafting experience along the Cham River. Overnight in a rustic lodge surrounded by nature.
Spend the morning exploring Pu Luong’s villages. Walk through farmland, rice paddies, and stilt houses, meeting local families and observing traditional weaving. After lunch, transfer to Ninh Binh, known for its dramatic karst landscapes and often called “Ha Long Bay on land.” Evening at leisure.
Begin the day with a sampan boat ride through the waterways of Tam Coc, drifting under limestone cliffs and past rice paddies. Later, cycle through quiet villages, stopping to interact with locals. In the afternoon, climb the 500 stone steps of Mua Cave for one of the region’s best panoramic views. Finish with a visit to Bich Dong Pagoda before returning to your hotel.
Transfer to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Board your overnight cruise and enjoy a welcome drink and lunch while sailing past towering karst islands. In the afternoon, explore Thien Canh Son Cave and relax with kayaking or a swim in the bay. Participate in a Vietnamese cooking demonstration before dinner on board. The night is yours to enjoy stargazing or squid fishing.
Wake early for Tai Chi on the sundeck as the sun rises over the bay. After breakfast, take a small boat to visit a floating fishing village before brunch on board. Disembark and transfer to Hanoi for your flight to Da Nang. Continue by road to Hoi An, where the evening is free.
Stroll through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, Chinese assembly halls, and traditional merchant houses. After lunch with a local family, cycle into the countryside to discover handicraft villages and the Tra Que vegetable garden, where farmers use centuries-old techniques.
Take a full day to relax at your own pace. Swim at An Bang Beach, browse Hoi An’s famous tailor shops, or enjoy a spa treatment. In the evening, wander the streets lined with glowing lanterns and sample street food along the riverbank.
Depart Hoi An and travel over the scenic Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking coastal routes. Stop at Marble Mountain to explore caves, pagodas, and viewpoints. Continue to Hue, the former imperial capital, and visit the Imperial Citadel, home of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors.
Embark on a Perfume River cruise to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s oldest and most significant religious sites. Visit Thuy Bieu Village, where you’ll join a cooking class and enjoy a foot massage. In the afternoon, explore the royal tombs of Emperor Tu Duc and Emperor Khai Dinh, each with unique architecture reflecting Vietnam’s history.
Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Explore lively Ben Thanh Market or sample local delicacies at a rooftop bar.
In the morning, venture to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network used during the Vietnam War. Return to Ho Chi Minh City for lunch, then tour the Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral (viewable from outside), and Central Post Office. End the day at Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs and street snacks.
Journey into the lush Mekong Delta, where life revolves around the river. Board a boat to cruise narrow canals shaded by palm trees. Stop at workshops producing coconut candy and rice paper, taste tropical fruits, and enjoy traditional folk music. Lunch is served in a local home. In the afternoon, stroll or cycle through riverside villages before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island. Transfer to your resort and spend the rest of the day relaxing on white-sand beaches or swimming in turquoise waters.
A free day to enjoy island life. Optional activities include snorkeling at the An Thoi archipelago, visiting fish sauce factories, exploring Phu Quoc National Park, or dining on freshly grilled seafood at the night market.
Enjoy your final morning in paradise. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll connect to your international departure.
