Take in the best of Vietnam on this 11-day group tour travelling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Explore the Vietnamese capital on a guided tour and wander the ancient capital of Hoa Lu near Ninh Binh. Spend a night cruising the emerald waters of Halong Bay aboard a junk boat, visit imperial Hue and discover the pretty riverside town of Hoi An. Crawl a section of the the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, discover the Mekong Delta and Can Tho, then end in Ho Chi Minh City with a guided tour.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Exploring Hanoi
This morning, we embark on a full-day exploration of Vietnam’s capital. We start with an orientation drive past some of Hanoi’s notable landmarks, including the Long Bien Bridge, St Joseph’s Cathedral and the French-colonial Opera House.
Next, we take a walking tour through the atmospheric Old Quarter - a maze of 36 ancient streets. From here, we visit the Ho Chi Minh Quarter to see the Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s modest stilt house and the iconic One Pillar Pagoda.
A short drive brings us to the Citadel and Flag Tower, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2010. We pause for lunch at KOTO Van Mieu, a social enterprise restaurant supporting local youth.
In the afternoon, we continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. We also visit Tran Quoc and Ngoc Son Temples before ending the day at Hoa Lo Prison - known as the “Hanoi Hilton” - where captured U.S. pilots were held during the Vietnam War. Our tour ends back at the hotel and the evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Hanoi | Breakfast, Lunch
Hoa Lu & Ninh Binh
Hanoi - Hoa Lu - Ninh Binh. Leaving Hanoi, we make the 90-kilometre journey south to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital. Here, we visit the sanctuary of Dinh Tien Hoang, a former emperor of the Dinh Dynasty, and the temple dedicated to the Le Emperor. Following the decline of the Le Dynasty, the capital was later relocated to Hanoi.
After free time for lunch, we continue to the Trang An Landscape Complex. This remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its dramatic limestone karst peaks, tranquil valleys and flooded cave systems.
We explore the area by small boat, gliding through the network of caves and waterways that wind through this stunning natural setting. Afterwards, we head to the hotel in Ninh Binh for check-in.
Overnight: Ninh Binh | Breakfast
Halong Bay
Ninh Binh - Halong Bay. This morning, we depart Ninh Binh and travel towards Halong City, passing through a landscape of towering limestone karsts and expansive rice fields. On arrival, we board a beautifully appointed traditional junk boat to begin our cruise through the emerald waters of Halong Bay - a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its 3,000 limestone islands and islets.
Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch on board as we sail deeper into the bay, stopping along the way to explore some of its more secluded corners. In the evening, you can unwind in your private cabin, relax on the deck, or enjoy a drink at the bar as the boat anchors for the night.
Overnight: Overnight Cruise (Halong Bay) | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Return to Hanoi & Fly to Hue
Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue. Rise early to join a Tai Chi session on the sundeck before a buffet brunch is served on board. We then make our way back to the harbour.
After disembarkation, we return to Hanoi by road for your included onward flight to Hue - the former imperial capital, set along the banks of the Perfume River. On arrival in Hue, you'll be collected and transferred to the hotel.
Overnight: Hue | Breakfast
Exploring Hue & Hai Van Pass to Hoi An
Hue - Hoi An. This morning, enjoy a half-day tour of Hue. We begin at the peaceful tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, the fourth ruler of the Nguyen Dynasty. We then make a brief stop at Bunker Hill, offering sweeping views over the Perfume River and the surrounding plains, followed by a visit to the nearby Tiger Colosseum.
Next, we explore the Citadel - the former imperial residence of the Nguyen emperors. Despite significant damage during the 1968 Tet Offensive, this UNESCO World Heritage site is gradually being restored. Our tour ends with a short boat trip to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s oldest and most revered temple.
After free time for lunch, we depart Hue and travel south to Hoi An, driving over the scenic Hai Van Pass - a natural boundary between Vietnam’s north and south, often cloaked in mist. it's often regarded as one of the most beautiful drives in the world. On arrival in Hoi An, we transfer to the hotel for check-in.
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast
Exploring Hoi An
This morning, we set off on a guided walking tour of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site and once Vietnam’s most vibrant trading port. The town's architecture reflects a rich blend of Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, French and British influences.
As we stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town, we visit a traditional ancient house, the Hoi An Museum, a Chinese Assembly Hall, Chau Ong Pagoda and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. The tour concludes in the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town, where you’ll have time to continue exploring at your own pace.
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast
Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh City
Hoi An - Danang - Ho Chi Minh City. After breakfast, we take a short drive to Danang Airport for your included flight to Saigon. On arrival, you’ll be met by our guide and taken to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located on the outskirts of the city.
We’ll be guided through a section of the tunnels, which were originally used by communist guerrillas during the Vietnam War. Stretching over 250 kilometres and extending across three levels underground, the tunnels were used as hiding places during combat and were home to communication routes, supply depots, hospitals and living quarters. You’ll have the option to enter a preserved section for a firsthand glimpse of life below the surface and can opt to shoot automatic weapons at the firing range (not included).
After the tour, we return to Ho Chi Minh City and check in to the hotel. The evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City | Breakfast
Mekong Delta & Can Tho
Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Can Tho. We depart early this morning for Cai Be, located in the heart of the Mekong Delta. After a two-hour drive from Saigon, we board the Mekong Queen, a traditional wooden boat, for a cruise to the Cai Be floating market - a small but characterful market that offers a glimpse into the river-based lifestyle of the Delta. As we cruise, you’ll sample tropical fruits and enjoy the fresh breeze as daily life unfolds on the water.
We disembark briefly to visit local workshops and craft producers, and enjoy a peaceful sampan ride through narrow canals before arriving at a historic home, where a delicious home-hosted lunch featuring Mekong specialities will be served.
In the afternoon, we continue cruising upstream towards Vinh Long. Along the way, we stop to visit a local brick and pottery factory, as well as a floating fish farm, observing daily life in this rural part of Vietnam.
We then return to the mainland, where a car will be waiting for the transfer to Can Tho. On arrival, check in to our hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure in this riverside city.
Overnight: Can Tho | Breakfast, Lunch
Exploring Can Tho & Return to Ho Chi Minh City
Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh City. We make an early start this morning to visit the bustling Cai Rang floating market, which comes to life from around 7:00. Travelling by small boat, we navigate the waterways packed with local traders who converge from surrounding rural areas to sell an array of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Following the market visit, we return to Saigon by mid-afternoon for hotel check-in. This evening, join your group for a farewell dinner at an authentic Vietnamese home-style restaurant.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City | Breakfast, Dinner
Exploring Ho Chi Minh City
This morning, join a walking tour through the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, taking in several of the most iconic landmarks. Strolling along Dong Khoi Street, we pass the historic Rex Hotel, the elegant Municipal Theatre and the colonial-era Hotel de Ville. We continue along Nguyen Hue Boulevard to visit the Central Post Office and the red-brick Notre Dame Cathedral.
We then rejoin our vehicle for a short drive to the site of the former US Embassy, now home to the US Consulate, followed by visits to the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum.
Later, we travel to the Binh Thanh district in eastern Saigon to explore Ba Chieu Market, a bustling local wholesale market. We then visit the Ngoc Hoang (Jade Emperor) Pagoda, a 124-year-old temple known for its intricate sculptures and woodcarvings.
Our tour ends back at the hotel, and from here an included transfer takes you to the airport for your onward flight.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Le Jardin Hotel & Spa, Hanoi
Rising in the centre of the government area in the heart of Hanoi, the Vietnam’s culture richness capital, Le Jardin delivers a dynamic but memorial experience that reflects Hanoi’s life style, culture and signature. From the Hotel’s vibrant top-floor restaurant and lounges to elegant floral café, this is where the city comes to connect and be inspired.
Hidden Charm Hotel , Ninh Binh
Surrounded by idyllic rice fields and towering limestone karsts, Hidden Charm Hotel does indeed ooze hidden charm, located in an area nicknamed "Halong Bay on land". Housed in an elegant white building, rooms at the hotel include king-sized (or twin) beds, large windows, TV, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, minibar and ensuite bathrooms. There are two restaurants, a snack bar and a garden bar nestled in the lush hotel gardens. There is also an outdoor pool and comprehensive spa offering an array of treatments, sauna, a jacuzzi and more. The area is best explored on foot or by bicycle, and bikes can be hired from the hotel for guests wanting to head out and explore.
Victory Star Cruise, Halong Bay
Victory Star Cruise offers a memorable experience exploring the stunning beauty of Halong Bay. Designed in traditional Vietnamese style, this comfortable cruise ship features well-appointed cabins with private bathrooms, air conditioning, large windows, and sea views. Onboard facilities include a spacious sundeck, a dining room serving Vietnamese and international dishes, and a bar.
Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel & Spa , Hue
Nestled in the heart of Hue, the Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel & Spa offers an elegant base for exploring this historic city. Just a short drive from the Imperial City and Perfume River, it’s ideally placed for sightseeing. The hotel features a beautiful colonial-style design, a relaxing spa, outdoor pool, and well-equipped fitness centre. Rooms are spacious, comfortable, and tastefully decorated with local touches. After a day of touring, guests can unwind in the lush garden areas or enjoy a meal in one of the on-site restaurants serving Vietnamese and international cuisine.
Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel & Spa, Hoi An
Centrally located on Hung Vuong Street, this colonial-style hotel boasts an excellent location within walking distance of the bustling Ancient Town of Hoi An. Its comfortable guestrooms are fully equipped with modern amenities, including free WiFi and tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel features a welcoming outdoor pool, where guests can enjoy a cooling drink at the Sunken Bar, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. The onsite spa offers rejuvenating full body Vietnamese massages and, if that wasn’t enough, the hotel also provides free bicycles and shuttle buses to take you to their private beach at An Bang.
Equatorial Hotel , Ho Chi Minh City
Equatorial Ho Chi Minh City is a 5-star hotel located near the heart of the city, providing easy access to Ben Thanh Market, Chinatown, and other cultural landmarks. Ideal for group travellers, the hotel features spacious rooms with modern comforts including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Amenities include an outdoor pool with swim-up bar, fitness centre, spa, and sauna. Guests can enjoy a choice of dining options, including international and Asian cuisine, as well as a café and lounge. A complimentary shuttle service and 24-hour reception ensure a convenient and comfortable stay.
Sheraton Can Tho, Can Tho
Overlooking the Hau River in the heart of the Mekong Delta, this modern hotel is just a short drive from Can Tho Floating Market and Ninh Kieu Wharf. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms with river or city views, a rooftop pool, and a well-equipped fitness centre. Several on-site restaurants offer a mix of local and international dishes, making it a convenient and comfortable base for exploring the vibrant sights and flavours of the region.
At a Glance
