Genuine Vietnam Journey: 12 Days / 11 Nights
Experience a remarkable journey through Vietnam and uncover the country’s hidden beauty on this immersive 12-day adventure. This thoughtfully designed itinerary is one of our most inspiring Vietnam package tours, offering the perfect balance between iconic landmarks and authentic local experiences.
Beginning in the charming capital of Hanoi, the journey introduces you to the cultural heart of Northern Vietnam. Explore the peaceful streets of the Old Quarter before cruising through the breathtaking limestone landscapes of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Natural Wonder. Spend an unforgettable night onboard a cruise — a true highlight of your Vietnam experience.
The adventure continues to Central Vietnam, where history and culture come alive. Discover the imperial legacy of Hue and wander through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, a beautifully preserved ancient trading port rich in heritage and charm.
Your journey then extends to Southern Vietnam, where the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City contrasts beautifully with the tranquil countryside of the Mekong Delta. Explore the dynamic city life, uncover fascinating history, and glide along the peaceful waterways of the mighty Mekong River before concluding your trip with leisure time for shopping or relaxation prior to departure
🌟 Why you'll love this tour?
- Experience Vietnam from North to South – Discover the country’s most iconic destinations including Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Hue, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City.
- Cruise through the legendary Ha Long Bay – Sail among thousands of limestone islands and enjoy one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
- Explore the “Ha Long Bay on land” in Ninh Binh – Glide through peaceful rivers, rice fields, and dramatic karst mountains in Tam Coc or Trang An.
- Discover Vietnam’s imperial heritage – Visit the historic Imperial City of Hue and uncover centuries of royal history and culture.
- Wander the lantern streets of Hoi An – Experience one of the most charming and romantic towns in Southeast Asia.
- Learn the history of the Vietnam War – Explore the famous Cu Chi Tunnels and gain insight into Vietnam’s wartime past.
- Experience life in the Mekong Delta – Cruise through floating markets, canals, and lush countryside where local traditions thrive.
- Authentic local experiences – Taste Vietnamese cuisine, meet friendly locals, and immerse yourself in vibrant culture.

🗺️PROGRAM IN BRIEF
- Day 1 Hanoi Arrival – Walking Street Food Tour (D)
- Day 2 Ninh Binh Discovery (B, L)
- Day 3 Hanoi – Ha Long Bay Cruise (B, L, D)
- Day 4 Ha Long Bay – Hanoi – Flight to Hue (B, Brunch)
- Day 5 Hue – Thien Mu Pagoda & Imperial City (B, L)
- Day 6 Hue – Ba Na Hill – Hoi An (B, L)
- Day 7 Hoi An Walking Tour & Countryside Experience (B, L)
- Day 8 Day 8: Hoi An – Da Nang – Flight to Ho Chi Minh City (B)
- Day 9 Ho Chi Minh City Tour – Cu Chi Tunnels (B, L)
- Day 10 Ho Chi Minh City – My Tho – Can Tho (B, L)
- Day 11 Can Tho Floating Market – Ho Chi Minh City (B, L)
- Day 12: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City (B)
⏰ Experiences Day By Day

Welcome to Hanoi – Vietnam’s charming capital blending ancient tradition with modern vitality.
Upon arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to the hotel for check-in. Your exploration begins with a visit to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, founded in 1070. Dedicated to Confucius and honoring generations of scholars, this beautifully preserved complex showcases traditional Vietnamese architecture, peaceful courtyards, ancient stone steles, and the country’s deep respect for education and knowledge. Walking through its historic gates offers a fascinating insight into Vietnam’s intellectual and cultural heritage.
Continue to Hoan Kiem Lake, the spiritual heart of the city, and visit Ngoc Son Temple, gracefully situated on a small island connected by the iconic red Huc Bridge.
Afterward, enjoy a 1-hour cyclo ride through the bustling Old Quarter, where each of the 36 ancient streets is named after traditional trades. Soak up the city’s local rhythm, charming French-colonial architecture, and vibrant street life.
In the evening, savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant or enjoy leisure time exploring Hanoi’s colorful night scene.
🏨 Overnight in Hanoi
Inclusion: Transfer, tour guide, entrance fee, cyclo, lunch, hotel in HN

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing for Ninh Binh.
07:30 – 08:00: Our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter for a scenic two-hour drive to Ninh Binh. Along the way, your guide will introduce Vietnam’s history, culture, and local daily life.
10:00: Arrive in Tam Coc and embark on a 1.5-hour sampan boat trip along the tranquil Ngo Dong River. Drift through three limestone caves and admire spectacular landscapes of rice paddies surrounded by dramatic karst mountains.
11:30: Disembark at Thanh Pier and take a short walk to visit Thai Vi Temple, an important spiritual site nestled among rice fields and waterways. Continue walking through the peaceful valley before enjoying a Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.
14:00 – 15:00: Hop on a bicycle and cycle to Thung Nang, passing rivers, lotus ponds, and limestone peaks. Ride through Dan Khe Trong Village to experience the authentic rural life of northern Vietnam.
15:00: Return to the vehicle and continue to Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, the former capital of Vietnam in the 10th century. Visit the temples dedicated to Kings Dinh and Le and learn about their role in the country’s early history.
After the visit, drive back to Hanoi and check in at your hotel for the night.
🚢 Overnight in Hanoi
Inclusion: Transfer, tour guide, entrance fee, breakfast, lunch, boat trip in Tam Coc, hotel in Hanoi & cycling in Tam Coc.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic 2½-hour journey through the peaceful countryside of the Red River Delta, passing by lush rice paddies and local villages before arriving at Tuan Chau Marina, the gateway to Ha Long Bay — a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its emerald waters and majestic limestone pillars.
Upon arrival, board your Ha Long Cruise and receive a warm welcome from the friendly crew with a refreshing drink and a brief orientation about the cruise itinerary and safety guidelines. Settle into your comfortable cabin, then enjoy a sumptuous seafood lunch served in the dining room as the boat begins gliding through the breathtaking scenery of the bay. Admire iconic limestone formations such as Dinh Huong (Incense Burner Islet), Cho Da (Stone Dog Islet), and Ga Choi (Fighting Cocks Islet) — each shaped by nature over millions of years.
In the afternoon, the cruise anchors near a quiet area of the bay. Visit a local pearl farm to learn about traditional pearl cultivation, or explore the magnificent Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay, filled with shimmering stalactites and stalagmites. Afterwards, you can go kayaking or swim in the calm, jade-green waters surrounded by towering cliffs.
As the sun sets, return to the cruise for sunset cocktails on the sundeck, the perfect time to capture stunning photos of the golden horizon. Join an interactive Vietnamese cooking class, where the chef will guide you to make traditional spring rolls or other local favourites.
In the evening, enjoy a romantic dinner served on board under a starry sky, followed by free time to relax, try squid fishing, or simply unwind with a drink at the bar.
🚢 Overnight on Ha Long Cruise
Inclusion: Transfer, tour guide, entrance fee, breakfast, lunch, dinner, cruise in Halong bay (cabin for 2 people)

Awake to the tranquil beauty of Ha Long Bay and begin your day with an early Tai Chi session on the sundeck — a serene way to greet the morning surrounded by misty limestone peaks. After a light breakfast, the cruise anchors near Titov Island, where you may climb to the summit for a breathtaking panoramic view of the bay or enjoy a refreshing swim on its sandy beach.
Return to the cruise for brunch as you leisurely sail past the bay’s final scenic spots, taking in your last glimpses of this magnificent natural wonder. The boat disembarks at the pier around 11:30 AM, where your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Hanoi.
Upon arrival, continue to Noi Bai International Airport for your flight to Hue, the former Imperial capital of Vietnam. Upon landing, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to the city center. In the evening, enjoy a visit to the illuminated Hue Imperial City, where the ancient citadel takes on a magical atmosphere under soft golden lights.
🏨 Overnight in Hue
Inclusion: Transfer, tour guide, entrance fee, breakfast, lunch (brunch) & boat trip in Halong bay, hotel in Hue imperial city.

After breakfast, transfer to the pier for a traditional dragon boat cruise along the scenic Perfume River. As you glide along the calm waters, admire the lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere lining both banks of the river — a truly charming introduction to Hue.
Your first stop is the historic Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic symbol of Hue founded in the 17th century. This elegant seven-story tower stands gracefully overlooking the river and reflects the city’s rich spiritual heritage.
Continue to the heart of Hue to explore the majestic Imperial Citadel, including the Flag Tower, Noon Gate (Ngo Mon Gate), Nine Dynasty Urns, Nine Holy Cannons, and the magnificent Thai Hoa Palace — once the ceremonial hall of the Nguyen Emperors.
Enjoy lunch at a local Vietnamese restaurant, featuring Hue’s distinctive royal and regional specialties.
In the afternoon, visit the elaborate Tomb of King Tu Duc, beautifully set amid pine forests and tranquil lakes. The journey continues to traditional handicraft villages, where you can observe the making of conical hats, bronze-casting products, and incense — authentic crafts deeply rooted in local culture.
🏨 Overnight in Hue Imperial City.
Inclusion: Transfer, tour guide, entrance fee, breakfast, lunch, boat trip, hotel in Hue

After breakfast at your hotel in Hue, depart for Ba Na Hills, traveling along the scenic coastal road and crossing the spectacular Hai Van Pass, offering breathtaking views of mountains and the East Sea .
Upon arrival, take a ride on the world-class cable car to the summit of Ba Na Hills. Walk across the iconic Golden Bridge, dramatically held by giant stone hands rising from the mountainside — one of Vietnam’s most photographed landmarks. Explore the charming French Village, stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, and enjoy panoramic views over the Da Nang coastline.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant in Ba Na.
In the afternoon, descend by cable car and continue your journey to Hoi An. Check in at your hotel and enjoy free time at leisure. In the evening, you may explore the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
🏨 Overnight in Hoi An Ancient Town.
Inclusion: Transfer, tour guide, entrance fee, breakfast, lunch, cable car in Ba Na Hill, hotel in Hoi An

After breakfast, your private guide and driver will pick you up at the hotel for a full-day countryside experience in Hoi An.
The journey begins with a visit to Hoi An Market, where you can experience the lively atmosphere of a traditional Vietnamese morning market. Stroll through the colorful stalls, interact with local vendors, and learn useful bargaining tips. Your guide will introduce the fresh ingredients that will later be used in your cooking class.
Continue with a scenic boat ride along the Thu Bon River toward Cua Dai area. Enjoy peaceful views of rural landscapes, observe traditional fishing techniques, and gain insight into the daily life of local fishermen.
Upon arrival at Bay Mau Water Coconut Forest, transfer to a traditional round bamboo basket boat (coracle) and paddle through the narrow canals shaded by nipa palms. Immerse yourself in the tranquil natural surroundings and try your hand at catching mangrove crabs — a fun and authentic local activity.
After the eco-tour experience, you will head to a local restaurant for a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class led by professional chefs. Over approximately two hours, learn how to prepare traditional dishes and discover fascinating aspects of Vietnamese culinary culture. Finally, enjoy the delicious meal you have prepared yourself.
Stay: Overnight at hotel in Hoi An
Inclusions: Private transfer, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, breakfast, lunch, hotel accommodation.

Later, meet your guide for a half-day walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once one of Southeast Asia’s busiest trading ports, Hoi An attracted merchants from China, Japan, and Europe, whose influences are still reflected in the town’s beautifully preserved architecture. Often described as a “hidden charm,” the ancient town offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and timeless beauty.
Visit the historic Tan Ky Old House, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall (Fujian Pagoda) before returning to your hotel.
Check out at noon. Lunch is at your own arrangement.
In the afternoon, enjoy free time to relax at the beach or continue exploring the lantern-lined streets and boutique shops of Hoi An.
Later, transfer to Da Nang International Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in the city center.
🏨 Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.
Inclusion: Transfer, tour guide, entrance fee, breakfast, lunch, cable car in Ba Na Hill, hotel in Hoi An
Breakfast at the hotel.
08:00 AM – Our guide and private air-conditioned vehicle pick you up at your hotel to begin a full-day sightseeing tour of Ho Chi Minh City.
The morning tour starts with a visit to the city’s iconic landmarks:
- Notre Dame Cathedral (outside visit), a French colonial masterpiece built in the late 19th century.
- Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel, showcasing classic French architecture blended with Asian influences.
- Reunification Palace, the former Presidential Palace of South Vietnam, where you will explore meeting rooms, war command bunkers and historical exhibits marking the end of the Vietnam War.
- War Remnants Museum, offering powerful insights into Vietnam’s wartime history through photographs, artifacts and preserved military equipment.
Lunch is served at a local restaurant, featuring authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
In the afternoon, depart for Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 70 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, you will watch a short introductory documentary explaining how the tunnel system was built and how it functioned during the war.
Then, spend approximately one hour exploring the extensive underground maze, including living quarters, command rooms, kitchens and escape routes. Along the way, you will see various mantraps, the remains of an American tank and numerous bomb craters left by 500-pound bombs dropped by B-52 bombers.
For those interested, there is an optional experience to fire rounds from an AK-47 or MK16 rifle at the nearby shooting range (subject to availability and at your own expense).
After the visit, return to Ho Chi Minh City and transfer back to your hotel.
🏨 Overnight in HCM city.
Inclusion: Transfer, tour guide, entrance fee, breakfast, lunch, hotel in HCM

After breakfast, depart from Ho Chi Minh City for a scenic two-hour drive to My Tho, the gateway to the Mekong Delta.
Upon arrival, embark on a traditional sampan cruise along the tranquil tributaries of the Mekong River, offering a close-up view of daily life along the waterways. Drift past lush islands and fruit orchards where you will have the opportunity to taste a variety of fresh tropical fruits while enjoying traditional Southern Vietnamese folk music.
Continue with a leisurely bicycle ride through peaceful village paths to experience authentic rural life in the Mekong Delta region. Enjoy a delicious local lunch featuring regional specialties.
In the afternoon, return to the pier and continue the journey with a comfortable transfer to Can Tho City, the heart of the Mekong Delta.
🏨 Overnight in Can Tho city.
Inclusion: Transfer, tour guide, entrance fee, breakfast, lunch, boat trip in Ben Tre, hotel in Can Tho.

After an early breakfast, transfer to a nearby pier and board a traditional sampan boat to visit Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest and most vibrant floating market in the Mekong Delta. Witness the lively trading scene as boats loaded with fresh vegetables and tropical fruits gather for wholesale exchange. Observe local vendors skillfully navigating between vessels while experiencing the authentic atmosphere of river life.
The journey continues through the narrow canals of the Mekong, passing peaceful riverside villages and lush landscapes before stopping at a local fruit orchard. Enjoy seasonal tropical fruits and learn more about daily life in the countryside.
Return to the hotel for lunch before departing by private transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City. The drive takes approximately three hours. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure to explore the vibrant nightlife of Saigon at your own pace.
Stay: Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City
Inclusions: Private transfer, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, breakfast, lunch, boat trip, hotel accommodation
Optional Dinner: Enjoy a special dinner cruise on the Saigon River from 18:00 to 21:30 with a set menu. Please let us know in advance if you wish to include this experience.

Breakfast at the hotel.
Enjoy your free time at leisure until your scheduled private transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport for your onward flight home, or to continue your journey to other destinations in Vietnam.
Our services conclude upon arrival at the airport.
Thank you very much for traveling with us. We hope you have enjoyed your journey and look forward to welcoming you again in the future.
Inclusion: Transfer, tour guide, breakfast.















