Essential Vietnam (Hanoi to Saigon) - Test Customized

10 Days   View Prices  
    
Overview
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  • Start/End: Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
  • Route: Hanoi - Lan Ha Bay - Hoi An - Hue - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - Ben Tre
  • Duration: 10 Days
  • Travel style: Classic
  • Tour type: Private tour
  • Tour schedule: Daily Departure
  • Tour guide in: English, Français, Español, Italiano, Português
Highlight

This journey leads you through the country’s most iconic highlights, from the timeless charm of Hanoi and the serene limestone landscapes of Lan Ha Bay to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and the imperial heritage of Hue, before immersing you in the vibrant rhythm of Ho Chi Minh City and the tranquil waterways of the Mekong Delta. Designed as a smooth, easy-paced program suitable for most travelers, it blends cultural discovery, gentle outdoor activities, scenic drives, light boat rides, and authentic local encounters - offering a complete and memorable first introduction to Vietnam.

  • Hanoi highlights & Old Quarter – culture, history, and local street life
  • Lan Ha Bay overnight cruise – limestone scenery and calm waters
  • Hoi An Ancient Town – heritage streets and relaxed charm
  • Imperial Hue – citadel and royal legacy
  • Mekong Delta in Ben Tre – river life and local encounters
Itinerary
Day by day itinerary Expand All
  • Arrival in Hanoi, airport pick-up and transfer to your hotel

    The driver will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to your hotel 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.
    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Lestar Hotel Hanoi(Deluxe Balcony Room) *or similar hotel
    59-61 Hang Than, Ba Dinh, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Explore Hanoi’s key highlights, including the Temple of Literature, the Museum of Ethnology, Ho Chi Minh’s complex, and the vibrant Old Quarter.
    Included:
    Meal: B
    Lestar Hotel Hanoi(Deluxe Balcony Room) *or similar hotel
    59-61 Hang Than, Ba Dinh, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Transfer to Ha Long, cruise through Lan Ha Bay, explore Dark & Bright Cave, enjoy a bamboo boat ride, and swim in crystal-clear waters

    7:30 - 8:30: The shared shuttle driver will pick you up at your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter (or at a designated meeting point if your accommodation is outside). From there, you will depart for Halong Bay, enjoying a scenic drive through the Red River Delta. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours (with a comfort break en route if necessary).

    Note: As this is a shared service, the driver will make multiple stops to collect other travelers before leaving Hanoi.

    Included:
    Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
    Sena Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Balcony Cabin)
    3b Dang Thai Than street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Begin the day with a Tai Chi session, explore the Tra Bau area, return to Hanoi, fly to Da Nang, and transfer to Hoi An

    The shuttle bus driver from the cruise picks you up at the cruise’s reception hall and transfers you back to Hanoi. Upon arrival, you are dropped off in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

    Included:
    Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
    Transportation
    Flight :VN189 (HAN - DAD) - (Direct) / 17:25 - 19:00 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 02 tickets
    Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel
    116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Enjoy a basket boat ride, explore Hoi An’s ancient town, and spend the afternoon at your leisure
    Included:
    Meal: B
    Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel
    116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Travel to Hue via the Hai Van Pass, visit the Cham Sculpture Museum, discover the Imperial Citadel, and stroll through Dong Ba Market

    8:30: Depart for Hue, stopping in Da Nang to visit the Cham Museum, home to one of the world’s most significant collections of Cham sculpture and cultural artefacts. Continue your journey along the scenic coastline toward Hue, pausing at the top of the Hai Van Pass to take in sweeping ocean views and the dramatic landscapes that frame this historic mountain route.

    Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

    In the afternoon, we'll explore the Imperial Citadel, the last remaining symbol of what was once Vietnam’s imperial capital. Inspired by Vauban-style fortifications, the complex is divided into three distinct sections: Kinh Thanh (the Capital City), Hoang Thanh (the Imperial City), and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). Within these walls lie many of Hue’s most remarkable landmarks, including the Flag Tower, the imposing South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the temples dedicated to past dynasties, and the former royal residential quarters.

    Before the day comes to a close, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Dong Ba Market. As you wander its lively aisles, you’ll encounter colourful produce stalls, aromatic spice vendors, traditional conical hats, and local snacks prepared fresh before your eyes. It’s an ideal place to meet friendly shopkeepers, observe the rhythm of everyday commerce, and gain an authentic insight into daily life in Hue.

    Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hue.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Hue Serene Palace Hotel(Junior Room) *or similar hotel
    21/42 Nguyen Cong Tru, Hue, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, discover Minh Mang’s royal tomb, explore Thuy Bieu village, join a cooking class, and fly to Ho Chi Minh City

    8:30:08:30 AM: Your guide and private driver will pick you up from your hotel to 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.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Flight :Flight (HUI - SGN) - (Direct) / - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 02 tickets
    Sanouva Hotel(Premium Deluxe Double Room) *or similar hotel
    177 Ly Tu Trong street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Discover Ho Chi Minh City’s highlights, including the Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum, Quan Am Pagoda, and a stroll through Binh Tay Market

    8:30: We begin the day with a visit to the Independence Palace, once the residence and workplace of the Presidents of South Vietnam. Here, you’ll see the North Vietnamese tank that famously crashed through the gates in 1975, marking the end of the Vietnam War. Inside, the five-storey palace has been carefully preserved in its late-1960s and 1970s style, including the basement bunker with its original communication rooms and command maps.

    We then continue to the War Remnants Museum, one of the most visited and thought-provoking museums in Ho Chi Minh City. Its exhibitions present multiple perspectives on the Vietnam War through historical documents, photography, wartime relics, and personal testimonies. The museum’s powerful displays offer a deeper understanding of the conflict’s human impact and often leave visitors with a lasting emotional impression.

    Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in town.

    In the afternoon, we visit Quan Am Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in the city, dedicated to Guan Yin and influenced by elements of Taoism and traditional folk worship of the “Queen of Heaven.” Its peaceful courtyards, incense-filled halls, and beautifully carved altars offer a quiet sanctuary amidst the bustle of the surrounding neighborhood.

    Then, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Binh Tay Market in Saigon’s vibrant Chinatown. With hundreds of stalls, this bustling wholesale market plays a central role in supplying the city with clothing, souvenirs, food products, and daily essentials. A small food court inside the market also invites visitors to sample local delicacies and classic street dishes.

    Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Sanouva Hotel(Premium Deluxe Double Room) *or similar hotel
    177 Ly Tu Trong street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Explore the Mekong Delta, cruise through Ben Tre, visit a coconut-processing workshop, and connect with local people

    8:00: Tour guide and driver welcome you at your hotel for your transfer to Ben Tre, a beautiful region in the Mekong Delta River, famous for making coconut candy. Arrive at Hung Vuong pier, take a boat trip on Ben Tre River to discover the daily local life. Continue your boat trip on a canal to Nhon Thanh Village. This will be an opportunity to taste the fresh fruits.

    Take a bike ride (or Tuk tuk) on a small path through the villages and enjoy views of the coconut ranges, rice fields and vegetable gardens. A lunch of elephant ear fish is served in the village. A short walk will help you to discover the local life in depth. This is followed by a boat ride on the small canal shaded by the wild palm trees.

    Transfer back to Saigon in the late afternoon.

    Dinner is on your own expense (not included). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Boat: Ben Tre
    Transportation
    Bike: Ben Tre
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Sanouva Hotel(Premium Deluxe Double Room) *or similar hotel
    177 Ly Tu Trong street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your departure flight.

    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.
    Included:
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    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: Ben Tre
  • Transportation
  • Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau, Hanoi - Tuan Chau
  • Flight Tickets: VN189 HAN - DAD (Vietnam Airlines - Economy) , Flight HUI - SGN (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
  • Meal: Breakfast: 06, Lunch: 04
  • Bike: Ben Tre
  • 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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