Wonders of Vietnam – 15-Day Private Tour from Hanoi to Saigon

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Hanoi (Arrival in Hanoi, airport pick-up and transfer to your hotel)
2 stops
1
Noi Bai International Airport
Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be greeted by our guide and driver at the pickup lobby. You’ll then enjoy a 45-minute drive to the heart of Hanoi, passing over the Red River, where you can catch a glimpse of the city’s unique architecture and its famously bustling traffic.
45 minutes • Admission ticket included
2
Old Quarter
The rest of the day is free at your leisure. Lunch and dinner are at your own expense. Overnight stay in Hanoi. Note: Hotel check-in time is from 2:00 PM. Early check-in is subject to availability and may incur an additional charge.
4 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 2
Hanoi (Explore Hanoi’s iconic sites, from the Temple of Literature to the vibrant Old Quarter)
5 stops
3
Temple of Literature & National University
8:30: Start your day at the Temple of Literature, founded in the 11th century under the Ly dynasty to honor Confucius and educate royal scholars. Stroll through its peaceful courtyards and gardens until you reach Khue Van Cac, the iconic pavilion that symbolizes Hanoi. Continue to the UNESCO-recognized stone steles, which record the names of Vietnam’s most outstanding graduates, before exploring Quoc Tu Giam, regarded as the country’s first national university.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
4
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
Next, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays), an engaging institution that offers deep insight into the cultures of Vietnam’s many ethnic groups. Its rich collection includes traditional costumes, agricultural tools, musical instruments, and life-size replicas of ethnic minority houses. A full visit typically takes about two hours. For lunch, enjoy one of Hanoi’s most beloved dishes: cha ca, fragrant turmeric-marinated grilled fish served with fresh herbs, rice noodles, and a tangy dipping sauce — a true staple of the capital’s culinary heritage.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
5
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
In the afternoon, continue with an exterior visit of Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, then enjoy a relaxing walk through the nearby botanical gardens to see the simple House on Stilts, where Ho Chi Minh once lived and worked. Conclude this section of the tour at the unique One-Pillar Pagoda, one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
6
Old Quarter
For a delightful gourmet pause, settle onto a small stool inside a traditional tube house and savor a cup of egg coffee - a creamy specialty born during the French colonial era. Made from whipped egg yolk and rich Vietnamese coffee, this iconic drink remains a local favorite. End your day with a stroll through the atmospheric Old Quarter. Originating in the 15th century as a busy trading hub, its famed “36 streets” each once specialized in a particular craft or product. Today, the Old Quarter is a vibrant open-air museum of living history, with narrow alleyways, tube houses, small temples, bustling markets, and irresistible street food creating an unforgettable sensory experience.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
7
Thang Long Water Puppet
In the evening, enjoy the water puppet shows that is the unique performances, first appeared in the 11th century. In these shows, the daily life, culture and belief of Vietnamese people are described by puppets on water. The show usually integrates a traditional music performance as well. Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hanoi.
50 minutes • Admission ticket included
Day 3
Hanoi - Mai Chau (Travel to Mai Chau, explore a Muong village, admire Thung Khe Pass, and enjoy a scenic village walk)
3 stops
8
8:00: Meet tour guide and driver then depart to Mai Chau. On the way, visit a Muong village. Continue to Thung Khe pass where you can view magnificent panoramic views of the valley before arriving in Mai Chau town. Mai Chau is a beautiful valley located 145 km away from Hanoi. It is great place with harmonious landscapes, green mountain ranges, rice terraces and White Thai ethnic villages.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
9
Upon arrival in Mai Chau, enjoy a home-hosted lunch. In the afternoon, explore Mai Hich village by bike (optional) or walk along the trails and concrete roads. You will be seduced by the gorgeous landscapes as the villages, rice fields, mountains and streams are in perfect harmony with one another. Do not miss the opportunity to communicate with the friendly local people who are always willing to welcome you into their house to enjoy a cup of tea.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
10
Mai Chau
Dinner and overnight in Mai Chau.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 4
Mai Chau - Ninh Binh (Travel to Ninh Binh to visit Dinh and Le Kings’ Temples, cruise Tam Coc, and explore Van Long)
5 stops
11
Ninh Binh
8:30: Depart for Ninh Binh, with optional stops en route to stretch your legs or capture moments of rural daily life.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
12
Hoa Lu temples of the Dinh & Le Dynasties
Upon arrival in Ninh Binh, we will make our first stop in Hoa Lu, you will visit the temples dedicated toEmperor Dinh Tien Hoang of the Dinh Dynasty (968-80), and Emperor Le Dai Hanh of the Le Dynasty (980-1009) who played a vital role in gaining the country’s independence after it was ruled by China for a thousand years. Both temples were built in the 17th symbolizing a deep respect to the King’s contributions. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
13
Tam Cốc-Bich Dộng
Then, we make our way to Tam Coc, which has been well-known as the “Halong Bay on land” and appeared in famous French movie “Indochina”. On arrival at the pier, you will take a private sampan boat for a ninety-minute cruise along Ngo Dong River. Pass through three caves and witness a stunning landscape interleaved by small communities, rice fields, cemetery and temples.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
14
Bich Dong Pagoda
To wrap up the day, Bich Dong pagoda, a typical pagoda in the countryside of the Red River Delta, built in the 15th century. On arrival, you will cross a stone bridge to Chua Ha, from which over 100 steps lead to Chua Trung – the cave pagoda with unique clay statues. You will then hike up to Chua Thuong. You not only have the chance to learn about Buddhism but also get to experience incredible countryside views.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
15
Transfer to Van Long. Dinner and overnight stay in Van Long.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Ninh Binh (Enjoy a sampan ride in Van Long, traditional music, and an embroidery workshop)
3 stops
16
Ninh Binh
8:30: To begin the day’s activities, you may choose to enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the dyke, offering beautiful views of rice paddies and dramatic limestone mountains. Along the way, feel free to stop for photos or brief encounters with local villagers, providing an authentic glimpse into daily rural life. The ride leads to Thung La Temple, a peaceful and little-visited temple dating back to the 11th century. Nestled at the foot of limestone cliffs and surrounded by farmland, the temple reflects early Vietnamese spiritual architecture and local religious traditions. Here, you'll listen to a traditional musical performance, offering insight into the region’s cultural heritage.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
17
Afterwards, return to Van Long Nature Reserve for a tranquil sampan boat ride through a vast landscape of limestone karsts and wetlands. As one of Vietnam’s largest nature reserves and a Ramsar-listed wetland of international importance, Van Long is known for its rich biodiversity. With a bit of luck, you may spot Delacour’s langurs (white monkeys), egrets, or other water birds resting on the cliffs and along the marshes. Cycling distance: approximately 10 km (one way) or 20 km (round trip)Note: Travelers who prefer not to cycle may ride as a passenger on a scooter or travel comfortably to the temple by car. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
18
Ninh Binh
After lunch, we continue to Lang Van Church, one of the most striking contemporary religious landmarks in Ninh Binh. Designed in an impressive Gothic style, the church is characterized by pointed arches, soaring vaulted ceilings, and an imposing bell tower rising over 100 meters, making it one of the tallest church towers in Vietnam. We then take part in an embroidery workshop led by Mrs. Lam, a local master craftswoman. With great pride, she introduces the traditional embroidery techniques passed down through generations. Under her guidance, you have the chance to work with needle and fabric, gaining hands-on experience and a deeper appreciation of this delicate craft, just like a local artisan. Overnight stay in Van Long.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 6
Ninh Binh - Lan Ha Bay (Transfer to Ha Long, cruise Lan Ha Bay, explore Dark & Bright Cave, and swim)
4 stops
19
Tuan Chau Island
8:00: Depart for Halong. The journey takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, with an optional stop for a restroom break along the way. Upon arrival, you'll be dropped off at Tuan Chau / Bai Chay pier, where you will board your cruise. 11:30 – 12:00: Arrive at Tuan Chau Harbor. Note: In cases where the group has more than four people, the transfer between Ninh Binh and Halong Bay (Lan Ha) is operated by a private minibus.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
20
Lan Ha Bay
12:00 – 12:30: Board a tender to transfer to the main vessel. Welcome aboard Sena Cruise! Enjoy a refreshing welcome drink as our Cruise Manager gives a safety briefing and a short introduction to the cruise program. Afterward, check into your cabin and settle in. 13:15 – 13:45: Lunch is served while Sena Cruise begins its journey into the breathtaking Lan Ha Bay—an extension of Ha Long Bay, known for its tranquility and fewer visitors. Along the way, admire iconic formations such as Finger Islet and Candle Islet, as well as countless limestone karsts and islands.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
21
15:00: Explore the serene Dark and Bright Cave, renowned for its untouched natural beauty and poetic landscape. Take stunning photos of this romantic area or enjoy a relaxing bamboo boat ride. You may also swim in the calm, emerald waters—a perfect way to experience the hidden charm of Lan Ha Bay.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
22
Lan Ha Bay
17:00: Return to the cruise. Join a sunset party on the deck—an ideal moment for photographers to capture the golden hour over the bay. Participate in a Vietnamese cooking class and learn how to make traditional spring rolls. Our captain will anchor the boat in a peaceful area for the night. 19:00: Enjoy a delicious dinner in the onboard restaurant. Afterward, unwind with your choice of activities: Chat at the bar or enjoy a movie in the restaurant; Treat yourself to a spa session (*); Sip cocktails at the panoramic bar (*); Try your hand at squid fishing with our prepared rods and lighting. Overnight onboard in Lan Ha Bay. (*) Additional charges apply for some services—please book with the cruise team directly.
4 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 7
Lan Ha Bay - Hoi An (Start with Tai Chi, explore Tra Bau, return to Hanoi, fly to Da Nang, and transfer to Hoi An)
5 stops
23
Lan Ha Bay
06:00: Start your day early with a sunrise photo opportunity and join our Tai Chi session on the sundeck to rejuvenate your body and mind. 07:00: The Sena Cruise sails through more majestic karst formations. Enjoy tea, coffee, and a light breakfast in the fresh morning air.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
24
08:15: Experience kayaking and swimming in the peaceful waters of Tra Bau, one of the filming locations for Kong: Skull Island (2018). Discover hidden corners and soak up the serene atmosphere. 09:30: Return to the boat and check out of your cabin.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
25
Lan Ha Bay
10:00: While enjoying a set-menu early light lunch, Sena Cruise gently sails back toward the harbor, passing by a panorama of limestone cliffs.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
26
Noi Bai International Airport
11:30 – 11:45: Arrive at the harbor, disembark, and farewell to the crew. Our driver will meet you at the Cruise Waiting Lounge and transfer you to Hanoi Airport. The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, with an optional restroom stop along the way. You will be dropped off at Noi Bai Airport for your onward flight.
4 hours • Admission ticket included
27
Danang International Airport
Upon your arrival at Da Nang airport, our local driver will greet you and transfer you to your accommodation in Hoi An, a journey of approximately 1 hour. Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hoi An.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 8
Hoi An (Enjoy a basket boat ride, explore Hoi An’s ancient town, and spend the afternoon at your leisure)
4 stops
28
Cam Thanh
8:30: Our guide and driver pick you up from your hotel in Hoi An for a short transfer to Cam Thanh village. Known for its tranquil waterways and centuries-old nipa palm mangroves, Cam Thanh offers a peaceful glimpse into the daily life of Hoi An’s fishing communities. Upon arrival, you board a traditional bamboo basket boat for a gentle ride through the shaded nipa palm canals while trying your hand at local-style crab fishing - a simple yet enjoyable experience close to nature.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
29
Japanese Covered Bridge
After the boat trip, we return to Hoi An to explore its key highlights. We begin at the Museum of Antiquities, a compact yet rich collection of Cham artefacts and ceramics that reflects Hoi An’s layered cultural history. From here, we walk to the 17th-century Japanese Covered Bridge, the town’s iconic wooden structure symbolising centuries of cultural exchange.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
30
Our visit continues at Quan Thang ancient house, one of the best-preserved merchant residences, admired for its refined woodcarvings. The tour concludes at the lively local market, a colourful riverside hub that offers an authentic glimpse into everyday life and local flavours. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in town.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
31
Hoi An
You have a free afternoon to relax or explore the surroundings at your own pace. Optional activities include joining a local cooking class, cycling through rural villages, or enjoying a peaceful boat trip on the river. Hoi An is also an excellent place to have clothes tailor-made. Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hoi An.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 9
Hoi An (Free day at leisure)
1 stop
32
Hoi An
Today, you have the entire day free to relax or explore the surrounding area at your own pace. Optional activities are available, such as snorkeling, cooking, cycling, sightseeing, or enjoying a boat trip. Feel free to contact us for more details and availability!
8 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 10
Hoi An - Hue (Travel to Hue via Hai Van Pass, visit the Cham Museum, and explore the Imperial Citadel)
4 stops
33
8:30: Pick-up from your hotel, then travel to Hue by passing Da Nang along the sea road. Once you arrive in Da Nang, stop to visit the Cham Museum which preserves the most important Cham culture collections in the world.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
34
My Khe Beach
Then, walk to My Khe beach where you can enjoy the view of giant Goodness of Mercy statues in the Linh Ung Pagoda. Take photos of fishermen by the beach then continue driving along the coastline to Hue ancient capital. Make a stop at top of the Hai Van pass to enjoy the breathtaking view of the ocean.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
35
Hue Imperial City (The Citadel)
Upon arrival, we begin exploring Hue with Hue Citadel, the only vestige symbol for what was once the imperial city of Vietnam. It is inspired by the fortification of Vauban. The city is composed of three parts: Kinh Thanh (the Capital city), Hoang Thanh (the Imperial city) and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). The most beautiful sites in Hue are concentrated in this area including the flag tower, the South gate, the palace of supreme Harmony, the Dynasty temple area and the settlement area.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
36
Dong Ba Market
To conclude the day, take a stroll at Dong Ba market. Wandering through its lively aisles, you discover vibrant produce stalls, fragrant spice counters, traditional conical hats, and local snacks freshly prepared on the spot. It’s the perfect place to meet friendly vendors, observe local trading culture, and get a glimpse into daily life in Hue.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 11
Hue - Ho Chi Minh City (Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Minh Mang Tomb, enjoy a cooking class, and fly to Ho Chi Minh City)
4 stops
37
Thien Mu Pagoda
We continue exploring Hue with a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the city’s oldest spiritual landmarks, founded in 1601. Its iconic octagonal tower and sweeping views over the Perfume River make it an essential stop for understanding the soul of Hue.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
38
Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang
Next, you discover the tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, an architectural masterpiece that blends imperial design with serene natural scenery. Planned during his reign (1820–1840) and completed by Emperor Thieu Tri, the complex was built through the collective craftsmanship of thousands of workers and artisans.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
39
You then head to Thuy Bieu village, a peaceful village along the Perfume River, famed for its fragrant pomelo orchards. Here, you may opt for a gentle bicycle ride through leafy lanes, stopping at ancestral temples, traditional garden houses over a century old, and small vegetable plots tended by local farmers. The experience continues at Mrs. Loan’s charming garden house, where you join a hands-on cooking class to learn several Hue specialties, from delicate vegetable carving to Nem, fig salad, and savory stuffed pancakes. Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring the dishes you’ve prepared.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
40
After the meal, transfer to Hue Airport for a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, our local driver will greet you at the pickup area and transfer you to your hotel in the city.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 12
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (Explore Ho Chi Minh City’s highlights and Binh Tay Market)
9 stops
41
The Independence Palace
Museum, Thien Hau Pagoda, and Chinatown 08:30: Welcome by your guide and private driver at your hotel to begin the city tour with a visit to the Independence Palace, the former seat of the South Vietnamese government. You will discover its official rooms preserved in the style of the late 60s and 70s, its impressive underground bunker, as well as the historic tank that marked the end of the war in 1975.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
42
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral
Then, begin a pleasant walking tour in the heart of the city center to admire and learn about the history of the finest architectural masterpieces from the colonial era: Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral: Built between 1863 and 1880, it is a superb emblem of French colonial influence, as well as a highly photogenic spot in the city.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
43
Central Post Office
Located right next door, this magnificent building was designed by Gustave Eiffel's workshop. You will step inside to admire its splendid iron frame and historical maps on the wall.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
44
Saigon Opera House (Ho Chi Minh Municipal Theater)
An elegant building inspired by the architecture of the Opéra Garnier in Paris, now a major cultural hub of the city.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
45
Located at the end of Nguyen Hue pedestrian street, this spectacular monument evokes the architecture of Paris City Hall with its illuminated sculpted facade.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
46
Ben Thanh Market
Next, visit the Ben Thanh Market, the most famous and bustling market in the center of Saigon, where you can shop for souvenirs or local goods. Lunch at a local restaurant.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
47
Fito Museum - Museums of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine & Pharmacy
A fascinating visit to a beautiful traditional wooden house. This unique museum preserves thousands of artifacts, ancient books, and tools used for preparing ancestral remedies.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
48
Ba Thien Hau Temple
Located in the heart of Cholon, this temple dedicated to the protective goddess of sailors impresses with its huge incense spirals hanging from the ceiling and rich ceramic sculptures.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
49
Binh Tay Market
Terminate the afternoon at the largest market of Binh Tay (Cholon). Known for its Chinese-influenced architecture and central clock tower, it is a bustling wholesale hub where you can find everything from spices to fabrics. Transfer back to your hotel. The rest of the evening is free at your leisure. Dinner at your own expense. Overnight stay in Saigon.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 13
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - Cai Be - Can Tho (Cruise the Mekong, bike through local villages, and visit Phu Chau Pagoda)
4 stops
50
Cai Be
7:30: Meet your tour guide and driver for the transfer to Cai Be, a tranquil riverside town renowned for its traditional handicrafts, lush orchards, and authentic Mekong Delta way of life. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the gentle rhythm of the legendary Mekong River as you board a boat and cruise through narrow canals shaded by tropical fruit gardens. Stop at local craft workshops to observe the production of rice popcorn, coconut caramel, and traditional rice cakes.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
51
Continue with a leisurely bike ride or a relaxed walk along quiet village paths to visit the ancient Phu Chau Pagoda, a serene spiritual site where time seems to slow down. Along the way, enjoy warm interactions with local residents. Lunch is served at an open-air restaurant, where you'll savor a Mekong Delta specialty.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
52
Vinh Long
In the afternoon, unwind with a fresh fruit tasting while gliding on a small rowboat through peaceful, palm-lined canals beneath overhanging fruit trees. Continue your boat journey to Vinh Long, where your driver awaits for the transfer to Can Tho.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
53
Can Tho
Arrive in Can Tho in the late afternoon and check in to your hotel. Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Can Tho.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 14
Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (The bustling Cai Rang floating market, fruit garden tour, Binh Thuy ancient house)
4 stops
54
Cai Rang Floating Market
Transfer to the local boat pier and board a traditional boat for a morning cruise to Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest and most vibrant floating market in the Mekong Delta. From early dawn, dozens of wooden boats gather on the river, loaded with rice, tropical fruits, vegetables, and local produce. The air is filled with colors, sounds, and the distinctive aromas of river life, creating a lively snapshot of Mekong trading traditions that have lasted for generations.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
55
Return to An Binh Market, a lively neighborhood market serving local residents. Here, stalls overflow with fresh fish from nearby rivers, tropical fruits, herbs, and vegetables. Unlike tourist-oriented markets, An Binh Market offers an authentic glimpse into everyday Mekong life, where vendors and buyers interact in a warm, local atmosphere.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
56
Binh Thuy Ancient House
The journey continues to Binh Thuy ancient house, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved heritage houses in the Mekong Delta. Built in the late 19th century, the house blends French colonial architecture with traditional Southern Vietnamese design. Its elegant wooden interior, antique furniture, and lush orchid garden make it a cultural highlight. The house also gained international fame as a filming location for the movie The Lover. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
57
Ho Chi Minh City
Our driver will pick you up in Can Tho and take you directly to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. The transfer takes approximately 4 hours, with an optional stop along the way. Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 15
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (Transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your departure flight)
1 stop
58
Tan Son Nhat International Airport
Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City and take you to Tan Son Nhat Airport. Note: Hotel check-out time is before 12:00 PM. Late check-out is subject to availability and may incur an additional charge.
1 hour • Admission ticket included

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

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