Mystique of Vietnam: South to North Discovery  14 Days  

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Saigon - Government Head Ofice
Saigon - Notre Dame Cathedral
Ben Tre
Ben Tre
Hoi An - Ancient town
My Son
Hue - Imperial City
Hue - Minh Mang Tomb
Amethyst Cruise
landscape
Halong Bay Kayaking
Bun Cha
Hanoi - Ngoc Son Temple
Overview
ninh-binh-22_2025-04-28_967.webp
  • Start/End: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)/Hanoi
  • Route: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - Ben Tre - Cu Chi tunnel - Hoi An - My Son - Hue - Ninh Binh - Hanoi - Lan Ha Bay
  • Duration: 14 Days
  • Theme: Authentic, Culture and Heritage
  • Tour type: Private tour
  • Tour schedule: Daily Departure
  • Tour guide in: English, Français, Español, Deutsch, Italiano, Português
Highlight

Embark on an unforgettable 14-day journey through Vietnam, traveling from the vibrant south to the historic north. Start in dynamic Saigon, cruise through the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta, and head to the central coast to explore the charming ancient town of Hoi An and the imperial city of Hue. Ride an overnight train to Ninh Binh, where you'll marvel at the inland landscapes known as "Halong Bay on land." Continue to Hanoi to experience the bustling capital's rich culture and mouthwatering street food, then cap off your adventure with the stunning natural beauty of Lan Ha Bay.

Itinerary
Day by day itinerary Expand All
  • Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, meet and greet at the airport, then transfer to your hotel.

    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.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Transportation
    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 best highlights of Ho Chi Minh City, including the Independence Palace, Binh Tay Market, Quan Am Pagoda, and the War Museum.

    9:00 AM: Pick up from your hotel to Independence Palace, once used as the home - office of the Presidents of South Vietnam. Our visit includes the North Vietnamese tank which effectively attacked the palace in 1975 to bring the controversial Vietnam War to an end and the five-story palace with its rooms have been preserved in their late 1960s, 1970s style and a bunker basement.

    Pick up by car then short drive to Binh Tay Market, located in Saigon’s Chinatown area with hundreds of stalls, the biggest market in city actually contributes a hub for many of Saigon’s demands including clothing, souvenir and food items. There is also a food court where visitors can sample local delicacies and street food.

    Continue Visit Quan Am Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in city and dedicated to Guan Yin, elements of Taoism, and the folk worship of the "Queen of Heaven".

    top visited site in Ho Chi Minh city – the War Remnant museum. The exhibits offer you all-sided views of the Vietnam War that might bring a big surprise than you are probably used to hearing and seeing.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B
    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:
  • Transfer to Ben Tre, boat trip to visit a brick factory, coconut and mat workshops, then explore villages by motor cart or bicycle.

    8:30: Our local driver and guide will pick you up from your hotel in central Ho Chi Minh City. From there, we’ll head to Ben Tre, in the heart of the Mekong Delta.

    Upon arrival, board a boat at Phong Nam pier (near Phong Nam Bridge) and begin cruising along the Chet Say River, a scenic branch of the Mekong. Along the way, enjoy views of daily life on the river—fishing, cargo transport, and local activity. Stop at a traditional brick factory where bricks are still handmade using age-old techniques. Refresh with a glass of fresh coconut juice.

    Visit a local workshop that produces coconut shell charcoal and learn how coconut shells are transformed into eco-friendly charcoal.

    Continue the boat trip to a coconut processing workshop where you’ll discover how coconut candy is made. Taste the delicious coconut treats, enjoy tropical fruits, and sip honey tea.

    Take a short walk to visit a family-run mat weaving workshop. Then, hop on a motor cart or bicycle for a peaceful ride through quiet village lanes, giving you a closer look at local farmers’ daily lives.

    Enjoy lunch at a local riverside restaurant.

    After lunch, transfer by motor cart back to the pier. Then take a traditional rowing boat ride to return to Nha Viec Bridge.

    14:50: Our driver will be waiting to pick you up for the return journey to 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:
  • Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, fly to Da Nang, and transfer to Hoi An.

    8:00 AM: Leave from your hotel to visit 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.

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

    Upon your arrival at Da Nang airport, our local driver will greet you and transfer you to your accommodation in Hoi An, a journey of approximately 1 hour. Once you reach your hotel, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax and enjoy at your leisure.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Flight :Flight (SGN - DAD) - (Direct) / - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 02 tickets
    Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel
    116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
    Video:
  • Discover My Son Sanctuary, uncover Champa culture, and explore Hoi An Ancient Town.

    Spend a half day for an excursion to the sacred valley of the Champa Kingdom. Located 40km from Hoi An Town, My Son was once the most important intellectual and religious center of the kingdom of Champa and may also have served as a burial place for Cham monarchs.

    Recognized as a World Culture Heritage site by UNESCO, the site preserves the 70 ruined architecture works of bricks and stones built between the 7th and 13th century. Your tour guide will explain to you all the cultural, historical and architecture values as you leisurely visit each relic. Tour also enrich with an attending to the traditional Champa dancing show before leaving the sanctuary.

    Enjoy a walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town, visiting iconic landmarks such as the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, the Museum of Trade Ceramics, and Tan Ky or Phuc Kien Assembly Hall. You’ll also have free time to explore Hoi An Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and local delicacies.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    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:
  • Spend a free day at your leisure.

    Today, you have the entire day free to relax or explore the surrounding area at your own pace. Optional activities are available, such as snorkeling, cooking, cycling, sightseeing, or enjoying a boat trip. Feel free to contact us for more details and availability!

    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, visit the Cham Museum, cross the Hai Van Pass, and explore Thien Mu Pagoda and the Hue Citadel.

    Travel to Hue by passing Da Nang along the sea road. Once you arrive in Da Nang, stop to visit the Cham Museum which preserves the most important Cham culture collections in the world. Then, walk to My Khe beach where you can enjoy the view of giant Goodness of Mercy statues in the Linh Ung Pagoda. Take photos of fishermen by the beach then continue driving along the coastline to Hue ancient capital. Make a stop at top of the Hai Van pass to enjoy the breathtaking view of the ocean. 

    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
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    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:
  • Discover Hue’s countryside by visiting Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh villages, explore Khai Dinh King’s Tomb, and board the overnight train to Ninh Binh.

    8:00 AM: 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. Finally, you'll head back to your hotel.

    In the afternoon, drive to 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.

    At the end of the day, you will be dropped off at the train station to catch an overnight train to Hanoi capital.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B
    Boat: Sinh - Tien Non
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Bike: Hue
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Train:SE2 (Hue - Hanoi) / 16:22 - 05:55 - Deluxe( 4 berths / cabin) / 02 tickets
    Video:
  • Explore Thung La Temple by bicycle or car, take part in a hands-on family embroidery workshop, and join a local 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.

    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
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Bike: 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, sail a bamboo boat through Tam Coc, visit King Dinh and King Le temples in Hoa Lu, then return to Hanoi.

    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, the former capital of Vietnam from the 10 to the 11 century. The citadel is surrounded by limestone mountains and rivers naturally protecting it and making for an amazing picturesque setting.

    On arrival at 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.

    Travel from Ninh Binh to Hanoi, enjoying the scenic views of the Red River Delta along the way. You can opt for a rest stop to stretch your legs or take photos of daily life. Upon arrival in Hanoi, you'll be dropped off at your accommodation.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    La Nueva Boutique Hotel(Premium Room) *or similar hotel
    32 Lo Su, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Explore the Temple of Literature, Ethnology Museum, Ho Chi Minh Complex, French Quarter, and 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. 

    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.

    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.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    La Nueva Boutique Hotel(Premium Room) *or similar hotel
    32 Lo Su, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Transfer to Halong, Cruise Lan Ha Bay, Explore Caves, Bamboo Boat Ride & Swim

    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: L, D
    Boat: Halong bamboo boat
    Entrance fees
    Leisure: Squid fishing
    Cooking class: Lan Ha (on board) - cooking demonstration
    Sena Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Balcony Cabin)
    3b Dang Thai Than street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Practice Tai Chi, kayak through Tra Bau, swim in emerald waters, return to Hanoi.

    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).

    Included:
    Shuttle bus: Tuan Chau - Hanoi
    English speaking guide (on board)
    Meal: B, L
    Entrance fees
    Kayak: Lan Ha
    Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    La Nueva Boutique Hotel(Premium Room) *or similar hotel
    32 Lo Su, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
    Video:
  • Transfer to Noi Bai Airport for your departure flight.

    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.

    Included:
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Video:
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, Sinh - Tien Non, Halong bamboo boat
  • Transportation
  • Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau, Tuan Chau - Hanoi
  • Train: SE2 (Hue - Hanoi)
  • Flight Ticket: Flight SGN - DAD (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
  • Meal: Breakfast: 12, Lunch: 08, Dinner: 01
  • Bike: Ben Tre, Hue, Ninh Binh
  • Kayak: Lan Ha
  • Leisure: Thung La temple music, Squid fishing, Morning Tai Chi
  • Cooking class: Nep House, Lan Ha (on board) - cooking demonstration
  • Service charges and Taxes
Exclusions
  • International flight from/to your country
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tipping and Gratuities
  • Other not mentioned in the program
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Prices are for a private tour.

  • Adult in sharing Twin/double room$1,585
  • Adult in single room $1,994

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