Essence of Vietnam: Hanoi to Hoi An - Without airport transfers (for group tour FR prices 2027)

07 Days   View Prices  
    
Overview
  • Start/End: Hanoi/Hoi An
  • Route: Hanoi - Lan Ha Bay - Ninh Binh - Hue - Hoi An
  • Duration: 07 Days
  • Theme: Most popular
  • Tour type: Private tour
  • Tour schedule: Fixed Departure
  • Tour guide in: Français
Highlight

Discover Vietnam’s must-see highlights on this 12-day small-group tour (max. 12 guests), available in French. From the bustling capital of Hanoi to vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, explore Vietnam’s most iconic sites: the stunning karst landscapes of Ninh Binh, a peaceful cruise through the less-crowded Lan Ha Bay, the imperial splendor of Hue, the timeless charm of Hoi An, and the vibrant daily life of the Mekong Delta. This well-rounded itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors looking to experience the very best of Vietnam.

    Itinerary
    Day by day itinerary Expand All
    • Explore the Temple of Literature, the Museum of Ethnology, Ho Chi Minh’s complex, and the bustling Old Quarter.

      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.

      Ethnology Museum (closed every Monday) which offers a deep insight into Vietnamese culture through traditional costumes, tools, musical instruments and traditional houses of many ethnic groups. To fully explore this interesting museum, it takes you around two hours. 

      For lunch, savour one of Hanoi’s most iconic dishes — chả cá, a flavoursome grilled fish specialty served with fresh herbs, rice noodles, and tangy dipping sauce. A true taste of the capital’s culinary heritage.

      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.

      savour a cup of egg coffee — a creamy Vietnamese specialty that dates back to the French colonial era and quickly became a local favourite. While it’s easy to find coffee anywhere, this version made with whipped egg yolk is truly special. Settle into a tiny stool in a traditional tube house and enjoy this uniquely Hanoian experience.

      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.

      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.

      Included:
      English speaking guide
      Meal: B, L
      Transportation
      Entrance fees
      Leisure: Water puppet
      02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
      Chalcedony Hotel(Deluxe City view Room) *or similar hotel
      4 Nguyen Truong To street, Ba Dinh district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
      Video:
    • Transfer to Ha Long City, cruise through Lan Ha Bay, explore Dark & Bright Cave, enjoy a bamboo boat ride, and take a refreshing swim.

      The driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi, and from there, we’ll begin our journey to Halong City with a scenic drive through the Red River Delta. The trip takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, with an optional stop along the way for a short break.

      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:
      English speaking guide (on board)
      Meal: B, L, D
      Boat: Halong bamboo boat
      Transportation
      Entrance fees
      Leisure: Squid fishing
      Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
      02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
      Sena Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Balcony Cabin)
      3b Dang Thai Than street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
      Video:
    • Start your day with a Tai Chi session, explore Tra Bau by kayak or with a refreshing swim, then journey to Ninh Binh.

      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 meet you at the Tuan Chau cruise port and transfer you to Ninh Binh. The drive takes approximately 4 hours, with an optional stop for restrooms along the way.

      Dinner and overnight in Ninh Binh

      Included:
      English speaking guide (on board)
      Meal: B, L, D
      Transportation
      Entrance fees
      Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
      02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
      Nep House(Double Room) *or similar hotel
      Lang Noi, Lang Van, Gia Lap, Gia Vien, Ninh Binh , Vietnam
      Video:
    • Hop on a scooter or bicycle to Thung La Temple, enjoy traditional music, join an embroidery workshop, and take part in a family cooking class.

      you can choose to embark on a 10 km bike ride (one way) or a 20 km ride (round trip) along the dyke, offering stunning views of rice fields, a river, and limestone mountains. Take optional stops along the way for picturesque photos and interactions with locals. Continue your exploration by visiting Thung La Temple, which dates back to the 11th century. Don't miss the opportunity to experience traditional musical instruments that are integral to the spiritual life of the Vietnamese people.

      Note: Travellers who prefer not to ride a bicycle can either ride as a passenger on a scooter or reach the temple by car.

      take a sampan boat trip along the stream and amidst the limestone mountains to uncover the beauty of Van Long Nature Reserve. Recognized as one of the country's largest reserves and designated as a Ramsar Site, it offers a unique experience. If you're fortunate, you might catch sight of white monkeys and egrets perched on the cliffs.

      visit an embroidery village and participate in an embroidery course guided by the local craftswoman, Mrs. Lam. She will proudly explain the techniques of her traditional craft, providing you with a valuable opportunity to practice on fabric like a true craftsman.  

      immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture and cuisine with a fun hands-on cooking class hosted by the welcoming team at Nep’s House. Learn how to prepare authentic yet simple Vietnamese dishes with step-by-step guidance from your local host. After cooking, sit down to enjoy the delicious meal you’ve created together. It’s a warm, personal experience that connects you to local life through food.

      Included:
      English speaking guide
      Meal: B, L, D
      Boat: Van Long
      Transportation
      Entrance fees
      Bike: Ninh Binh
      Motorbike / Motorbike taxi: Ninh Binh
      Leisure: Thung La temple music
      Cooking class: Nep House
      02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
      Nep House(Double Room) *or similar hotel
      Lang Noi, Lang Van, Gia Lap, Gia Vien, Ninh Binh , Vietnam
      Video:
    • Discover Phat Diem Cathedral, enjoy a sampan boat ride in Tam Coc, visit the ancient Dinh and Le Temples, then transfer to Ninh Binh station for your overnight train to Hue.

      Phat Diem cathedralwhich is well-known as the “Catholic capital” of Vietnam. The construction of the cathedral between 1875-1899 with a unique combination of traditional pagoda architecture and a western church made of stone and wood.

      On arrival, take a leisurely walk to visit the Jesus Christ on the middle islet and the impressive house-gate. Then continue to the grand Catholic Church named “Nha Tho Duc Me Man Coi” which was built with 6 rows of monolithic ironwood with 2 layers of tile roof. Located at the end of the courtyard, the completely stone church is the most incredible building in the complex.

      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.

      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.

      transfer to Ninh Binh station and board the overnight train to Hue - a classic rail experience through central Vietnam.

      Included:
      English speaking guide
      Meal: B, L, D
      Boat: Tam Coc
      Transportation
      Entrance fees
      02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
      Train:SE3 (Ninh Binh - Hue) / 21:35 - 07:59 - Deluxe( 4 berths / cabin) / 02 tickets
      Video:
    • Discover Hue’s cultural treasures, including Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh villages, the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, and the historic Imperial Citadel.

      Arrive at Hue railway station in the morning, where our tour guide and driver will warmly welcome you. Then, set off to explore the mystical city of Hue.

      transfer to the Huong River (or Perfume River) to embark a Royal boat trip to the villages in the East of the city. This is an opportunity to discover the local life on the both sides of this poetic river. Upon arrival in Tien Non village, disembark for a bike ride in the countryside through three villages: Tien Non, Thanh Tien and Sinh village. During the trip, you will be immersed into the daily rhythm of life in the villages.

      In Tien Non village, meet the villagers working on the fields and vegetable gardens. Then, visit a family worship house in the village. Next, reach Thanh Tien village, an artificial paper flower village dating back 400 years. Besides the rural works, they make paper flowers for the New Year festival to offer their ancestors the best wishes. Visit Mr. Hieu’s family, one of the well-known artisans in the village to learn how to make paper flowers under his instruction. Keep going to Sinh village, a cradle of 400 year folklore prints in Hue. Meet Mr. Phuoc who will explain the techniques of traditional prints. You will find beautiful souvenirs on this trip. 

      Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Hue, dating back to 1601. This is the spiritual highlight of the city and well known for its majestic octagon tower and beautiful view of the Perfume River.  

      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.

      Included:
      English speaking guide
      Meal: B, L
      Boat: Sinh - Tien Non
      Transportation
      Entrance fees
      Bike: Hue
      02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
      Rosaleen Boutique Hotel(Deluxe Double Room) *or similar hotel
      36 Chu Van An street, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam
      Video:
    • Visit Khai Dinh Tomb, travel the scenic Hai Van Pass to Hoi An, stop at the Cham Sculpture Museum in Da Nang, and explore the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An.

      Khai Dinh King's tomb, built in 11 years (1920 – 1931) on Chau Tru hill. Khai Dinh King's tomb is distinguished from other emperor's tombs by the mixture of oriental and western styles. A hundred-step climb will take you to the worship palace at the top. You will discover the amazing decoration with delightful porcelain fragments, a giant painting on the ceiling and a small royal objects museum next door. Finally, the descent offers a panoramic view to the tomb and surrounding area.

      Hoi An via Mandarin Road and Sea Cloud pass (Hai Van Pass). Stop on top of the pass to enjoy the breathtaking view of the ocean and Da Nang city. Once you arrive in Da Nang, stop to visit the Cham Museum which preserves the most important Cham culture collections in the world. Then, walk on 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 Hoi An ancient town. 

      Hoi An used to be one of the most typical South-East Asian trading ports dating from the 15th to the 19th century and the Old Town is still well-preserved. The exchanged cultures is displayed on many historic buildings, religion, daily business and enriched by the authentic lifestyle of local inhabitants.

      Cam Pho - one of the oldest communal houses in Hoi An. It was built in the shape of Chinese character means the country for worshipping and trading business and cultural exchange between locality and Chinese, Japanese traders.

      Hoi An city’s symbol - the Chua Cau or the Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 17th century to allow the Japanese quarter to be accessible from the Chinese neighborhoods. The bridge’s original style has been carefully preserved for the last 400 years.

      Quan Thang ancient house - one of the most authentic old houses in Hoi An with the lively and fine architecture and sculptures were made by craftsmen of famous Kim Bong carpentry village in the oriental style. The house offers a good look of Hoi An family's daily life. 

      Phuc Kien or Fujian Assembly Hall, built since 17th century, is the gathering place for residents, traders and visitors from a specific area in China called Fujian. It is also a religious site to honor the deity Thien Hau. Spend a visit, you will admire the colorful fountains in the courtyard, the ornate gates surrounding the property and the beautiful carved dragons in the main room.

      Included:
      English speaking guide
      Meal: B, L
      Transportation
      Entrance fees
      Service charges and Taxes
      02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
      Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel
      116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
      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, Van Long, Tam Coc, Sinh - Tien Non
    • Transportation
    • Train: SE3 (Ninh Binh - Hue)
    • Meal: Breakfast: 07, Lunch: 07, Dinner: 04
    • Bike: Ninh Binh, Hue
    • Motorbike / Motorbike taxi: Ninh Binh
    • Leisure: Water puppet, Squid fishing, Morning Tai Chi, Thung La temple music
    • Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration, Nep House
    • 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
    Why not treat yourself to a relaxing beach break or a cultural discovery?
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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 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
    • Adult in single room

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