Classic North to South Vietnam Highlights & Luang Prabang

11 Days   View Prices  
    
Hanoi - Ngoc Son Temple
Lan Ha bay
Halong Bay Landscape
Halong Bay Landscape
Hoi An - Ancient town
Hoi An - Ancient town
Saigon - Ho Chi Minh city
Cu Chi Tunnels
Luang Prabang Laos
Luang Prabang Laos
Overview
hoi-an-ancient-town-1_2025-02-20_898.webp
  • Start/End: Hanoi/Luang Prabang
  • Route: Hanoi - Lan Ha Bay - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - Luang Prabang
  • Duration: 11 Days
  • Theme: Most popular, Culture and Heritage
  • Tour type: Private tour
  • Tour schedule: Daily departure
  • Tour guide in: English
Highlight

Embark on a classic journey through Vietnam and Laos, exploring their most iconic destinations from north to south. Stroll through Hanoi’s vibrant Old Quarter, cruise the stunning waters of Halong Bay, and soak in the charm of Hoi An. Experience the dynamic energy of Ho Chi Minh City before heading to Laos, where Luang Prabang’s golden temples and Mekong River sunsets provide a perfect finale. Blending history, nature, and local traditions, this journey captures the true essence of Vietnam and Laos.

Itinerary
Day by day itinerary Expand All
  • Arrival in Hanoi, welcome at Noi Bai airport, and transfer to your hotel in town.

    Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be greeted by our driver at the exit of the arrival hall. 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. Once you arrive in the Old Quarter, the driver will drop you off at your hotel.

    Included:
    Transportation
    Palago Boutique Hotel(Executive Room) *or similar hotel
    10 Bat Dan, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Discover Hanoi's major attractions, the famous Train Street, and enjoy a Water Puppet show

    9:00 AM: We begin our discovery of Hanoi with Temple of Literature which was built under the Ly dynasty in 11th century for worshipping Confucius and teaching Royal children. Enjoy a walk in the garden to the city’s symbol Khue Van Cac. You will then visit the World Heritage "stone steles” which shows the name of outstanding students. Continue to explore the Quoc Tu Giam which is considered as the first national university of Vietnam.

    Afterwards, we explore Hoa Lo prison museum. Spend an hour to learn about the Vietnamese War. Hoa Lo was one of the largest prisons in Indochina, built by the French colonists in 1896 for Vietnamese political prisoners. Later, it was better known as the Hanoi Hilton since it imprisoned American pilots.

    We continue to French Quarter – it is a “little Paris” in Hanoi with tree-lined boulevards, government head offices and a big square. Visit (outside) Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum before having a leisurely walk in the botanical gardens to visit the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts where he used to live and work. Towards the unique One – pillar pagoda which is one of the city’s symbols. It takes us from 1 to 2 hours to explore this complex, depending on the number of traveler.

    Then, we make our way to Hanoi Train Street is a one-of-a-kind, vibrant alley in the heart of Hanoi, where a railway track runs just inches away from residential homes. It offers a fascinating glimpse into local life combined with the excitement of trains passing up close. 

    Afterwards, take a stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, originally established in the 15th century as a bustling trading hub, features 36 streets—each historically dedicated to a specific craft or product. Despite the city’s evolution, the Old Quarter remains a vibrant living museum. Its iconic tube houses, narrow alleyways, centuries-old temples, open-air markets, and mouthwatering street food come together in a captivating blend of history and everyday life. Exploring this charming neighborhood on foot is the best way to awaken all your senses.

    Finally, 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.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Leisure: Water puppet
    Palago Boutique Hotel(Executive Room) *or similar hotel
    10 Bat Dan, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Travel to Halong, Cruise to Lan Ha Bay, Explore Dark & Bright Cave, Bamboo Boat Ride, and Swimming

    If transport is included, our driver will pick you up from your hotel in the heart of Hanoi. From there, we’ll begin our journey to Halong City, enjoying a scenic drive through the picturesque Red River Delta. The trip takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with a convenient stop along the way for restrooms if needed.

    11:30 – 12:00: Arrive at Tuan Chau Harbor.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    Included:
    Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
    English speaking guide (on board)
    Meal: B, L, D
    Boat: Halong bamboo boat
    Entrance fees
    Leisure: Squid fishing
    Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
    Sena Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Balcony Cabin)
    3b Dang Thai Than street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Experience a Tai Chi class, kayaking, swimming in Tra Bau, cruise back to Tuan Chau, disembark, and travel back to Hanoi, take a short flight to Da Nang, then travel to Hoi An ancient town.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    11:30 – 11:45: Arrive at the harbor, disembark, and farewell to the crew.

    Our driver will greet you at the Cruise Waiting Lounge and transfer you to Hanoi. The journey takes approximately 2.5-3 hours, with a restroom stop available along the way (optional).

    Our driver will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel in Hanoi and take you to Noi Bai Airport. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes.

    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. 

    Included:
    English speaking guide (on board)
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Kayak: Halong
    Leisure: Swimming,Morning Tai Chi
    Flight :Flight (HAN - DAD) - (Direct) / - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 02 tickets
    Hoi An Central Hotel(Superior Room) *or similar hotel
    301 Nguyen Huy Hieu Street, Hoi An city, Quang Nam , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Join a private cooking class, learn how to cook Vietnam traditional dishes.

    Welcome at the Hai Café (98 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Hoi An) rendezvous point (Transfer from hotel to meeting point on your own). After briefing, cycle to Tra Que village. We suggest you visit the vegetable garden where the villagers work according to the traditional method. Here, you will find and choose the coriander and fresh mint to prepare your dishes before drinking the local herbs.

    Then, you will go to a local market with the list of spices you need, select the local ingredients such as star anise, cardamom, sesame rice papers, banana flowers and return to Red Bridge Restaurant. You will have a chance to refresh before starting the cooking class. Accompanied by the cooks of Red Bridge, you will learn how to make traditional Vietnamese cuisine, using local ingredients to prepare 4 famous dishes including the famous national dish, Pho. After the cooking class, you can taste the dishes you prepared yourselves. Later, you will enjoy a half hour cruise on Thu Bon River back to Hoi An town center. Today's activities end at around 14:30 PM. 

    Included:
    Meal: B, L
    Boat: Thu Bon river
    Transportation
    Cooking class: Hoi An
    Hoi An Central Hotel(Superior Room) *or similar hotel
    301 Nguyen Huy Hieu Street, Hoi An city, Quang Nam , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Transfer to Da Nang, and take the morning flight to Ho Chi Minh city. Hop on a vintage Vespa to discover Saigon back streets at night.

    Our driver will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel in Hoi An and transfer you to Da Nang Airport.

    Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, our local guide and driver will warmly welcome you at the pickup area. You’ll then be transferred to your hotel in the city.

    To start off this Saigon night tour, enjoy drinks at our Vespa-themed café, Café Zoom, to watch “as the world goes by” (as said in the Lonely Planet guide book)

    Throughout the night, try a variety of food and drinks at 2 local restaurants and samplings of Saigon’s best authentic local food.

    Zoom past the famous must-see sights of Ho Chi Minh City while in the bustling traffic. We’ll also go to a Vietnamese-style coffee shop with special live music, and then wrap up the evening at an exciting music bar where the new generation of Vietnamese unwind and flaunt their unique styles.

    Guests ride pillion behind our drivers to enjoy and experience the Vietnamese nightlife with friends. This tour includes free flowing drinks and all you can eat, so come with an appetite!

    At the end of the tour, drive back to your hotel.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, D
    Transportation
    Flight :Flight (DAD - SGN) - (Direct) / - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 02 tickets
    Sanouva Hotel(Premium Deluxe Single Room) *or similar hotel
    177 Ly Tu Trong street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Explore Cu Chi tunnels

    8:00 AM: We depart for the most striking place in the history of the Vietnam War, the Cu Chi Tunnels.

    Cu Chi is a real underground city made up of a large network of tunnels covering an area of over 250km long where the Viet Cong conducted the war of resistance against American troops. All of the tunnels were dug over a period of twenty years using only pickaxes and shovels. The tour includes special entering some part of tunnels. 

    Option:

    At the Cu Chi shooting range, guests can enhance their experience by trying real gun firing. This service allows visitors to test their aim with a variety of firearms under supervision. It’s a thrilling option for those seeking a bit of adventure. This is an optional service not included in the tour price, and guests will need to pay on the spot.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Sanouva Hotel(Premium Deluxe Single Room) *or similar hotel
    177 Ly Tu Trong street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Take a flight to Luang Prabang

    Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City and take you to Tan Son Nhat Airport.

    Arrival at Luang Prabang airport, pick-up by our driver, then transfer to your hotel.

    Luang Prabang, the former and first capital of the Kingdom of Lane Xang, is also the spiritual heart of Laos. The city charms visitors with its colonial architecture blended with local traditions and its peaceful atmosphere.

    Included:
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    Flight :Flight (SGN - HAN) - (Direct) / - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 02 tickets
    VN931 (HAN - LPQ) - (Direct) / 12:55 - 14:00 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 02 tickets
    Villa Chitdara(Superior Room) *or similar hotel
    Khounsua Rd., Ban Vat Nong, Luang Prabang, Luang Prabang, Laos
    Video:
  • Explore Luang Prabang city, discover Kuangsi waterfall, enjoy panoramic views from Phousi Mount, and stroll at the night market.

    Start the visits with the former Royal Palace, now transformed into the National Museum, which houses a precious collection of royal and religious artifacts tracing the history of Laos.

    Continue to Wat Xieng Thong, the city's most iconic and photographed temple, remarkable for its elegantly sloping roofs and golden mosaics depicting scenes of Laotian life.

    Next, visit Wat Visoun, recognizable by its watermelon-shaped stupa—a symbol of harmony—and one of the oldest temples in Luang Prabang.

    At Wat Aham, a small and intimate temple, you’ll discover the guardian spirits of the city and the animist elements that remain deeply rooted in local culture.

    We’ll drive to the breathtaking Kuang Si Waterfall, where you can cool off in its turquoise pools or stroll along scenic forest trails. You’ll also have the chance to visit the nearby bear sanctuary, managed by Free the Bears Fund Inc.

    We’ll ascend Mount Phousi to explore its sacred gilded stupa and enjoy panoramic views of the city, the sunset, and the Mekong River.

    Towards the end of the day, enjoy free time to stroll through the night market, where ethnic minorities display their handmade crafts. The peaceful atmosphere, hanging lanterns, and fragrant spices create an unforgettable setting.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Villa Chitdara(Superior Room) *or similar hotel
    Khounsua Rd., Ban Vat Nong, Luang Prabang, Luang Prabang, Laos
    Video:
  • Discover Pak Ou caves and visit traditional handicraft villages.

    Depart for the Luang Prabang peninsula, where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet. Board your private longtail boat for a peaceful two-hour cruise along the Mekong, passing limestone cliffs and forested riverbanks.

    Visit the Pak Ou Caves, nestled in a cliffside overlooking the river. These natural sanctuaries house thousands of Buddha statues, left by pilgrims over the centuries. It is a deeply sacred site, revered by the Lao people.

    Laos is famous for its rich heritage of traditional crafts. We'll take a short drive to Ban Phanom, a village renowned for its traditional handwoven textiles. We’ll also visit Ban Xangkhong and Ban Xienglek, two small villages known for their silk weaving and the production of Saa (jute) paper.  

    We'll stop at the Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Center for a guided tour, where you’ll learn about silk production, meet the talented weavers, and discover the vital role of women artisans in preserving these cultural traditions.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B
    Boat: Luang Prabang
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Villa Chitdara(Superior Room) *or similar hotel
    Khounsua Rd., Ban Vat Nong, Luang Prabang, Luang Prabang, Laos
    Video:
  • Transfer to airport

    Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to relax before being transferred to Luang Prabang airport for your departure.

    Included:
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    Video:
Prices
Group size
Sharing Twin/Double Room
Private Single Room

Traveling with more than 8 people? You can select a different group size in the next step.

Group Size 9+
Inclusions
  • English speaking tour guide following itinerary
  • All entrance fees and tickets mention on itinerary
  • Selected Accommodations with daily breakfast
  • Cruise: Sena Cruise - 2D1N
  • Boat: Halong bamboo boat, Thu Bon river, Luang Prabang
  • Transportation
  • Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
  • Flight Tickets: Flight HAN - DAD (Vietnam Airlines - Economy) , Flight DAD - SGN (Vietnam Airlines - Economy) , Flight SGN - HAN (Vietnam Airlines - Economy) , VN931 HAN - LPQ (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
  • Meal: Breakfast: 10, Lunch: 05, Dinner: 02
  • Kayak: Halong
  • Leisure: Water puppet, Squid fishing, Swimming, Morning Tai Chi
  • Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration, Hoi An
  • Service charges and Taxes
Exclusions
  • International flight from/to your country
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tipping and Gratuities
  • Other not mentioned in the program
Extensions
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Good to know
  • Passeport & Visa

    Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of arrival in Vietnam and contain a minimum of two blank pages.

    French citizens, as well as nationals of 12 other countries (including Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Spain), may enter Vietnam without a visa for stays of up to 45 days. If you plan to stay longer, or if your nationality is not eligible for this exemption, please check with the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate, or feel free to contact us for further information.

  • International flights

    International flights are not included in the price of our tours. You are free to choose and book the flights that best suit your needs and schedule. If you wish, our travel consultants can assist you in finding the best available options.

  • Travel insurance

    Valid travel insurance is mandatory to participate in the tour. It must cover the following:

    • Emergency medical expenses (including hospitalization and repatriation)
    • Trip cancellations or interruptions
    • Activities included in your itinerary, including outdoor excursions

    Before departure, please provide us with the following information:

    • The name of your insurance company
    • Your policy number
    • A 24/7 emergency assistance contact number

    Please check whether your credit card already provides coverage and consider purchasing additional insurance if necessary.

  • Weather & best time to visit Vietnam

    Spring (February to April) and autumn (September to December) are the most pleasant seasons to visit Vietnam, with mild weather and limited rainfall. However, the country stretches over more than 1,600 km, and weather conditions vary significantly. Vietnam can be visited year-round:

    • North: Cool winters (December to February), hot and humid summers.
    • Central: Rainy season from September to November.
    • South: Tropical climate, warm year-round, with frequent showers from May to October.

    Please pack clothing suitable for each region according to your itinerary.

  • Time zone

    Vietnam operates on GMT+7 year-round. There is no seasonal time change.

  • Currency and Payments

    The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). US dollars and euros are sometimes accepted in hotels, but this is not guaranteed.

    • Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted in most mid-range to high-end hotels, restaurants, and shops.
    • ATMs are widely available in major cities.
    • Currency exchange is possible at the airport, banks, or authorized exchange offices.

    Tip: Avoid using old, damaged, or torn banknotes, as they are often refused for payment.

  • Domestic flights

    If your tour includes domestic flights, the exact schedules, flight numbers, and relevant details will be provided in your travel documents.

    Please arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure, bringing your passport and electronic ticket (or booking reference).

    Baggage: Checked baggage allowance generally ranges between 20 kg and 23 kg, depending on the airline. Cabin baggage is usually limited to 7 kg.

    Attention: Additional fees may apply if you exceed the permitted limits. We recommend checking the specific conditions of each airline (Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways, etc.) before your flight.

    Flight schedules are subject to change by the airline. We will keep you informed in case of any updates.

  • Flight Connections

    If you have a connecting domestic flight in Vietnam, please follow these steps upon arrival:

    • Collect your checked luggage.
    • Proceed through immigration and customs.
    • Make your way to the domestic terminal (at some airports, this may require a walk or a shuttle transfer).

    Airport staff are generally available to assist you if needed. Do not hesitate to ask for help.

    Recommended connection time: minimum 2 hours 30 minutes
    This allows sufficient time for possible flight delays, queues at immigration and customs, and transfers between terminals.

    Practical tip: At major airports such as Hanoi (Noi Bai) or Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat), domestic and international terminals are not always located in the same building. Please allow ample time and follow the signs upon arrival.

  • Vaccinations & Personal Medication

    No mandatory vaccinations are required to enter Vietnam.

    However, health authorities recommend the following vaccinations, especially for long stays or travel in rural areas:

    • Hepatitis A and B
    • Typhoid fever
    • Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (booster shots recommended)
    • Rabies (in case of prolonged stays in rural areas or possible contact with animals)

    If you are undergoing regular medical treatment, please ensure you bring a sufficient supply of medication for the entire duration of your stay.
    Do not forget to carry your prescription, preferably in English, to facilitate any checks or medical consultations on site.

  • Malaria & Mosquitoes

    The risk of malaria is very low in Vietnam’s main tourist areas, including Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, Pu Luong, Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and the tourist areas of the Mekong Delta. No malaria prophylaxis is generally recommended for these regions.

    However, if you plan to travel to remote rural, forested, or mountainous areas (for example, Muong Te in Lai Chau, certain border or isolated areas of the northern highlands, or deep areas of the Mekong), you should consult a doctor or a travel medicine clinic to assess the need for preventive treatment.

    Tips to protect yourself from mosquito bites

    • Apply insect repellent to exposed skin containing DEET (30–50%), icaridin, or PMD (citriodiol).
    • Wear long, covering clothing, especially in the early evening and at night.
    • Sleep under a mosquito net, particularly in simple accommodations, natural settings, or places without air conditioning.
    • Use electric diffusers or mosquito coils in the evening in non-air-conditioned areas.
    • Avoid stagnant water near your accommodation, as it is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
  • Airport Pick-up

    Upon your arrival in Vietnam, our driver will be waiting for you at the airport exit, holding a sign displaying: “IZITOUR – [Your name]”.

    Please take a moment to carefully check the signs at the arrival exit. If you have any difficulty locating our driver, do not hesitate to contact our French-speaking assistance team, available 24/7, at the following number:
    +84 382 536 266 (direct call or WhatsApp available).

    Practical tip: Make sure your phone is activated for international calls or internet access upon arrival to facilitate communication if needed.

    Note: At some airports, several drivers may be waiting at the exit. If you do not immediately find our representative, please remain in the meeting area and contact us — we will assist you promptly.

  • Small Group Tour

    Our small-group tours generally bring together between 4 and 7 participants. You will travel alongside people from diverse backgrounds, with different nationalities, cultures, and ages. This is a great opportunity to share experiences, exchange perspectives, and build meaningful connections throughout the journey.

    To ensure that all planned activities run smoothly, punctuality is essential. Please respect the schedules communicated by your local guide to guarantee an enjoyable and seamless experience for the entire group.

  • Shared and private room

    For group tours, room allocation is based on the gender indicated on your passport. By default, you will share a twin room with a traveler of the same gender.
    You will be accommodated in a single room in the following cases:

    • You prefer to have a single room.
    • No other traveler wishes to share a room.

    In both cases, a single supplement applies. Please contact your travel consultant to check availability and the exact supplement amount.
    Note: This supplement does not apply to train cabins, which include four berths per compartment.

Select Date and Travelers

Price per pax in USD
  • Adult in sharing Twin/double room$2,238
  • Adult in single room $2,748

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