From charming Hanoi with its fading colonial architecture and national monuments, to the spellbinding scenery of Halong Bay and bustling Ho Chi Minh City on the edge of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam is as colourful as it is diverse. See the very best of vibrant Vietnam in 10 captivating days.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Hanoi
Saturday. Welcome to Hanoi, perhaps the most graceful, atmospheric and exotic capital city in Asia. Airport to hotel arrival transfer. The remainder of the day offers free time for you to explore the wide tree-lined avenues, beautiful lakes, ancient pagodas and the thriving historic old city, all easily navigated on foot.
For those able to arrive very early today or the day prior, why not get off the beaten track and explore Hanoi with us on our optional Back Streets of Hanoi add-on which explores the quaint districts of Cho Buoi, Hoang Hoa Tham and Vinh Phuc, and also includes an exhilarating local experience - riding pillion, on taxi-motorbikes through a maze of tiny streets and along the shore of beautiful Ho Tay Lake.
Overnight: Hanoi
Junk boat cruising, Halong Bay
Hanoi – Halong Bay. After breakfast we enjoy an exhilarating cyclo (rickshaw) ride around the maze of streets in Hanoi's French Quarter, taking in highlights such as the Opera house and Ly Thai To Park. After the cyclo ride we transfer to heavenly Halong Bay, the jewel in Vietnam's scenic crown. We explore the pristine jade waters, studded with karst islands, aboard a traditional junk boat. Our cruise starts with a tasty lunch onboard, soaking up the views.
This afternoon we visit Trinh Nu Cave, one of the finest caves in Halong Bay, covering an area of 2,000m² with a stunning array of stalactites and stalagmites. There's also the opportunity to go kayaking and enjoy a refreshing swim. Later this evening back on board, watch a Vietnamese cooking demonstration held on the sundeck before settling down for a sumptuous seafood dinner.
Overnight: Halong Bay, Deluxe Junk Boat | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore the Old Quarter
Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue. Early birds can start the day with a relaxing Tai Chi class on the sundeck or a traditional massage. Before heading back to port this morning, we explore the beautiful Sung Sot cave (Surprise Grotto), which is 10,000m² and consists of two major chambers which are spectacular and spacious enough to hold thousands of people.
Arriving back into Hanoi mid-afternoon we enjoy a leisurely walk around the ‘36 streets of the old quarter’, named after the numerous guilds that once set up shop on a particular street, from silk tailors to traditional medicine shops.
Later this evening there's a chance to freshen up before boarding the train (4 berth sleeper cabin, basic standard) on the ‘Reunification Express’ railway line to Hue. An option to fly from Hanoi to Hue is also available.
Overnight: Sleeper train | Breakfast
Imperial Hue
Upon arrival to Hue we embark on a guided sightseeing tour of the 19th-century Nguyen empire capital. We visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, home to the oldest monastery in the city, whose 21m high tower has become something of a symbol for Hue and the citadel. Within the citadel is the Imperial Purple Palace, an exact copy of the Forbidden City in Beijing, with its impressive ramparts, formal moats and imperial palaces, some of which lay in ruin.
In the countryside lies the Royal Tombs of the Nguyen kings and here we view the elaborate mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc. As the sun sets there is an optional cruise in a long boat along the gentle Perfume River, beautifully illuminated at night.
Overnight: Hue | Breakfast, Lunch
Delightful Hoi An
Hue - Road of the Ocean Clouds - Hoi An. Today we take the scenic Hai Van Pass (Road of the Ocean Clouds), which offers magnificent views of beaches to one side and lush hills to the other. En route we stop for a walk along My Khe beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline which was nicknamed 'China Beach' by the Americans during the war and famously featured in Francis Ford Coppola’s movie ‘Apocalypse Now’. Perhaps enjoy a refreshing swim in the sea before continuing our journey south along the coast to Hoi An.
The charming, old-world trading port of Hoi An with its cobbled streets, traditional homes and tiny shop houses is a perfect place to lose yourself in a bygone era. Boutique restaurants, hip cafes along the waterfront, delightful craft shops and artisans including some of Asia’s best bespoke tailors (whose services come at a nominal price), all can be found here.
On a short walking tour of the enchanting historical town, we visit the Chua Ong Pagoda, Chinese Assembly Hall, 200-year-old Tam Ky house, former merchants’ homes and the 400 year-old Japanese Covered Bridge.
During your stay in Hoi An, we offer a unique optional Hoi An Street Eats add-on, which explores the city’s most popular local haunts. Cruise the city the way the locals do, by vintage Vespa and enjoy lots of tasty Vietnamese Cuisine. Book early with your reservation consultant, as numbers are limited.
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast
Tra Que Village
A bicycle ride into the countryside leads us to Tra Que village (we can arrange alternative transportation at no extra cost for those who don't wish to cycle). Here, we discover age old farming practices and learn about traditional medicine. It’s a hands-on experience today where we assist with tending the fields and gardens and cooking lunch!
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast, Lunch
Hoi An - at leisure
A free day for you relax or further sightsee. You may wish to take a relaxing rowboat journey along the river or spend the day lazing by the beach or hotel pool. Alternatively you can opt to take an excursion to the UNESCO-listed My Son sanctuary or enjoy a day trip to the Ba Na Hills, where you can ride the second longest cable car in the world, explore the resort and walk along the striking Golden Bridge (book and pay locally).
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast
Cruising the Mekong
Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City. Early morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Then a drive to the Mekong Delta. Often referred to as the ‘rice bowl’ of Vietnam, the fertile Mekong Delta is famous for its abundant harvests of tropical fruits, flowers and rice, as well as its fantastic views while boating along the canals. Taking our sampan from Cai Be we cruise through the maze of waterways watching the hubbub of daily life on the river. Passing colourful trading boats, house boats and children swimming we stop to visit some of the local cottage industries that produce popcorn, coco candies and paper along the way. Lunch is served today in a traditional wooden home on Dong Hoa Hiep Island.
Overnight: Can Tho | Breakfast, Lunch
Mekong & Ho Chi Minh City
Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh City. Early today we visit the ever lively Cai Rang floating market. Watch as melons, pineapples, fresh greens, sacks of rice and children's toys get tossed from one sampan to another at great heights and speed before driving back to Ho Chi Minh City. Once called the Pearl of the Orient, modern Ho Chi Minh City is a thriving metropolis on the move. Sleek sky scrapers, gourmet restaurants, designer malls and swanky bars and spas are scattered between ancient pagodas, colonial era landmarks and lively street markets. Our walking tour of Ho Chi Minh City includes visits to the Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Post office and the sobering War Remnants Museum. Evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City | Breakfast
Ho Chi Minh City
Monday. Today is free for you to enjoy Ho Chi Minh City before your departure transfer to the airport. Opt for a relaxing foot massage, shop for souvenirs at Ben Thanh Market or visit the grand Independence Palace, with its secret bunker and military command centre beneath.
You could also extend your stay and join us on a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Here you can go underground to explore the vast network of tunnels and hideouts used by Viet Cong guerrilla fighters, see booby traps, trap doors or test your skill with an AK 47 at the firing range.
Breakfast
Cu Chi Tunnels - go underground!
Discover the Cu Chi Tunnels - a vast underground network of tunnels and hideouts used by Viet Cong guerrilla fighters during the 1960’s. Often lead by a relative of a Viet Cong fighter in green fatigues we walk the bush trails discovering grass covered trapdoors, ingenious, yet gruesome booby traps and hidden underwater entrances in rivers. There is also an opportunity to go underground and pop off a few rounds at the firing range. Our Cu Chi Tunnels bolt-on includes return transportation to and from Cu Chi, guided tour and 1 night accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City.
Prices & Dates
All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to solo travellers or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
Extra Prices
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.
La Casa Hotel, Hanoi
Set in the tranquil French Quarter of Hanoi, La Casa Hotel offers a comfortable stay in Vietnam’s bustling capital. Each guestroom features free high-speed WiFi and individually controlled air conditioning, alongside the other amenities you’d expect of a modern hotel. Guests can enjoy Asian cuisine in the on-site restaurant as well as a range of beverages in the bar. The gym boasts fantastic views over the city, however, if you’re looking to unwind, you can take a dip in the fountain swimming pool or head to the hotel's spa center.
Bhaya Classic I Junk Boat, Halong Bay
This premier cruise boat offers 18 well appointed cabins with en suite amenities. Cabins are contemporary in design, whilst the finer touches have a distinct oriental influence. All cabins feature large windows creating a bright and airy atmosphere as well as scenic views. Facilities and services onboard include a dining room and bar, a sunbathing area on-deck, masseur and small library.
Syrena Junk Boat, Halong Bay
A tradition hand crafted boat, the Syrena Junk Boat offers superb en suite air conditioned cabins with comfortable interiors and balconies. The on board Lotus Restaurant serves up a delicious array of Vietnamese and International cuisine. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the public areas. Swimming, kayaking and tai chi are all offered on board and movie nights are also very popular.
Mondial Hotel, Hue
Just a 5 minute walk from the Ho Chi Minh museum, the Mondial Hotel is a contemporary hotel with excellent amenities. Guest rooms benefit from spacious interiors, comfortable beds and lots of mod-cons. There is complimentary Wi-Fi for guests, an outdoor pool and onsite spa - perfect for a re laxing massage. As well as the delicious Huong Xuan Restaurant there is also the Lobby Lounge - great for cocktails before dinner!
ÊMM Hotel, Hue
Situated in the heart of the former imperial capital, ÊMM Hotel is the perfect base from which to explore Hue’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed sights. Guestrooms are spacious and complete with modern amenities. The hotel's imperial jade and royal purple colour scheme was inspired by ancient Hue itself. Guests can take advantage of the mini-gym, pool-side bar and reading area. Enjoy delicious Vietnamese and international cuisine in the onsite contemporary restaurant.
Vinh Hung Riverside Resort, Hoi An
Situated right on the banks of the Thu Bon River, this upscale hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the ancient town of Hoi An. Combining Vietnamese tradition with modern facilities, its guestrooms are set in coconut tree-shaded gardens beside the water. They’re well-equipped, with free WiFi and air conditioning, as well as private balconies. The hotel also offers a riverside restaurant, serving local specialties and western dishes on the outdoor terrace. This hotel’s highlight, however, is its pool and fabulous swim up bar, which is the perfect place to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail.
The Saga Hotel, Hoi An
The Saga Hotel Hoi An offers a comfortable and modern stay in Hoi An. Guests can unwind in the outdoor swimming pool or enjoy a workout at the fitness centre. The hotel features a garden, a bar, and a restaurant serving local cuisine. With amenities such as free WiFi, air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms, The Saga Hotel Hoi An ensures a convenient and pleasant experience. Additional services include a 24-hour front desk and a kids' club. A range of breakfast options—buffet, continental, or American—are available each morning.
ÊMM Hotel, Hoi An
Ideally located less than 200 metres from Hoi An's Old Quarter, this beautiful hotel features a mix of French colonial and traditional Vietnamese architecture. There's an outdoor swimming pool and a serene private garden to unwind in. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and other meals in the onsite restaurant and drinks at the bar. There is also free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Room are colourfully and tastefully decorated, with minibars, fridges, TV and ensuite bathrooms.
TTC Hotel Premium Can Tho, Can Tho
Situated along the Hau River and just a short 2-minute stroll from the riverside, TTC Hotel - Can Tho boasts a central location in Can Tho. This 10-story hotel provides captivating panoramic views of both the city and the river and offers a wide range of facilities including an outdoor pool, spa, casino and nightclub. Comfort is guaranteed in the spacious, well equipped rooms and complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout. You can savour delectable Asian and Western cuisine at the in-house TTC restaurant and enjoy scenic views of the river at The Alfresco Cafe.
Victoria Hotel Can Tho, Can Tho
This attractive, colonial-style resort is tastefully decorated with well-appointed rooms and a wide range of facilities including a spa, tennis courts, open-air bar, restaurant and a gym. The hotel also offers sunrise and sunset cruises to the floating markets aboard the Lady Hau junk.
Muong Thanh Centre, Ho Chi Minh City
Centrally located, yet on a peaceful, tree-lined street, you will find the Muong Thanh Centre. Only a ten-minute walk from top attractions such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, Opera House and Ben Thanh Market, this hotel is a great base for exploring the famous sights of the city. Its guest rooms boast sophisticated designs and panoramic views. Warm and friendly, the Muong Thanh Centre also features a spa and swimming pool for you to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Bay Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City
The 16-storey, Saigon River-facing Bay Hotel is located just a couple of streets away from the Notre Dame Basilica and Independence Palace in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Rooms offer a complimentary Wi-Fi connection and a complimentary minibar, which is replenished daily. Rooms are bright and contemporary, with floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuite bathroom, TV and safe. The hotel restaurant serves a variety of Asian cuisine and there is a daily buffet breakfast. The rooftop pool and bar offers incredible views over the city.
The best trip ever with an awesome tour guide”
Great tour, would have liked more time in Halong Bay & Hoi An as soo much to do and see.
For tipping and entrance fees etc it would be good to pay upfront perhaps included in the price as there seemed to be lots of extras.
Kien was fantastic tour guide, it was great to hear about the culture and Vietnam from a locals perspective ”
An absolutely awesome trip, really happy we had such an amazing tour guide Hung Do. His knowledge was incredible, and the tour ran like a well greased wheel. Hung was an amazing very caring person, we realized quickly that we did not have to worry about a thing, just sat back and enjoyed the tour.”
WinWin was very good in looking after our group’s needs and safety. He’s knowledgeable of all the places we visited which made our trip enjoyable, informative. He’s an asset to your company and hopefully we come across him again in our future trips. Thanks ”
The tour was fantastic. We saw so much and learnt so much in a short time. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about his country and culture. He was professional and nothing was a problem. He welcomed any feedback to ensure we had the best holiday and we certainly did. We would recommend the tour and our guide to anyone. ”
The tour was fantastic. We saw so much and learnt so much in a short time. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about his country and culture. He was professional and nothing was a problem. He welcomed any feedback to ensure we had the best holiday and we certainly did. We would recommend the tour and our guide to anyone. ”
My daughter and I booked this tour only 7 days before leaving. We were very unsure what to expect and a little nervous visiting a new country. We were immediately put at ease when we met Win Win our tour guide. From the minute we were in Win Win's care we felt safe and happy we had someone who was available for great tips and support any time of the day and night.
He was very organized, patient and very knowledgeable. We all had a lot of fun with Win Win. I would very much recommend this tour to our family and friends.”
Win win was the best guide we have had
So friendly and knowledgeable and Vietnam was fantastic
I thought I had lost my passport mid trip before an internal flight / he remained calm and was doing stuff behind scenes to ensure we had a plan B- luckily we found them but it gives you an example of just how good he was as a tour guide ”
Amazing tour guide Win Win. Very respectful to all ages and made our trip amazing, will definitely recommend On The Go Tours from our experience. ”
I went on an on the go tour through Vietnam
Win Win was our tour guide
He impressed with excellent timelyness
Planning meeting everyone s needs
Creating a sense of family and belonging which made the tour special
He was very knowledgeable and was sharing Vietnam from his heart beliefs family experience and faith.This made Vietnam a place of heart connection
We were very blessed to have this extremely excellent man as our tour guide ”
At a Glance
Tour Add-ons
Enhance your trip with these amazing added extras and add-ons
The best trip ever with an awesome tour guide”
