Embark on this 13-day journey to discover the essential highlights of Vietnam! Traveling from north to south, through the central region, this carefully crafted itinerary combines must-see attractions with comfortable accommodations. Explore Hanoi's iconic landmarks and the famous Train Street, relax on a boutique luxury cruise through the stunning Halong Bay, wander through the historic town of Hoi An, immerse yourself in the rich culture of Hue, and uncover the fascinating history of the Cu Chi Tunnels. Get ready for a trip filled with culture, history, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable memories!
Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be greeted by our guide and driver at the pickup lobby. 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.
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.
In the afternoon, we will explore 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, Afterward, enjoy a unique water puppet show, a traditional art form that first appeared in the 11th century. In these performances, the daily life, culture, and beliefs of the Vietnamese people are beautifully depicted by puppets on water, accompanied by a traditional live music performance.
Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter. We'll then begin a 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi to Van Long. As we traverse the Red River Delta, feel free to make stops along the way to capture photos of the rural landscapes.
Take a journey back in time to uncover an ancient temple that traces its roots to the 12th century. Nestled in the midst of a serene countryside village, a world away from the crowds of mass tourism, this temple pays homage to Zen Master Nguyen Minh Khong. Not only was he the head monk during the Ly dynasty (1009-1225), but he also pioneered treatment methods using Vietnamese herbs and acupuncture. The Thanh Nguyen temple stands as a testament to history, preserving ancient architectural styles and housing a treasure trove of precious relics.
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.
To conclude the day, 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.
For an active immersion, 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.
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.
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.
11:00 – 11:30: Arrival at Tuan Chau Marina - Join us at the waiting lounge (Lot 32) for check-in and enjoy a selection of special welcoming tea.
11:45 – 12:00: Boarding & Briefing - A speedboat will transfer you to the main vessel. Once aboard, enjoy a refreshing welcome drink during a brief safety orientation.
12:45 – 13:00: Lunch with a View - Savor buffet lunch while we cruise deep into the breathtaking landscapes of Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay.
14:45 – 15:00: Exploring “Ao Ech” - Discover a "hidden paradise" by kayak, immersing yourself in the pristine nature of this secluded area.
16:00 – 16:45: Transition to “Tra Bau” - We continue cruising through the bay to reach our overnight anchor point in Tra Bau. This area offers a serene landscape, perfect for immersing yourself in the bay's natural beauty.
18:00 – 18:15: A Culinary Journey - Join our culinary team for a cooking demonstration or enjoy "Happy Hour" at the bar as the sun sets. Professional massage services are also available for your relaxation.
Option: Massage service available. Please book with our Cruise Manager directly.
19:15 – 19:30: Gourmet Dinner - Experience a sophisticated fusion dinner prepared with the freshest ingredients in an elegant neoclassical setting.
21:00 – 21:30: Nighttime Leisure - End your first night under the stars. Try your hand at squid fishing, watch a movie in our restaurant, or simply relax at the sundeck bar.
06:00 – 06:30: Serene Beginnings - Start your morning with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, followed by breakfast with a panoramic view of the bay.
06:45 – 07:00: Light breakfast - We will have a light breakfast in the restaurant while continuing cruising through Lan Ha Bay.
07:45 – 08:00: Viet Hai Village Excursion - Transfer to our day boat for a visit to the historic Viet Hai village. Explore by bicycle along village paths, winding through rainforests and tunnels to visit traditional ancient houses. Optional electric car service is available. (Optional electric car service is available at an extra cost). After the excursion, we go back to the day boat for a traditional Vietnamese lunch on board.
13:30 – 14:00: Exploration - Journey to the Dark and Bright Cave, a peaceful body of water perfect for scenic kayaking or a guided bamboo boat ride with a Ha Long local.
16:00 – 16:30: Afternoon Refreshments - Return to the main ship to join a cooking class, take a swim in an untouched area, or enjoy sunset drinks during Happy Hour.
19:00 – 19:15: Evening Dining - Another delicious fusion dinner will be served in an intimate, romantic setting.
21:00 – 21:30: Relaxation Time - Enjoy the landscape of the bay at night from the top deck. Relax with drinks from the bar, try night squid fishing, or watch a movie in the restaurant.
Option: Professional massage services remain available for booking with the Cruise Manager (please see massage menu).
06:00 – 06:30: Morning Reflections - Refresh your senses with a final sunrise Tai Chi session. Breakfast is served as we continue our journey through the karst landscape.
07:40 – 07:55: Thien Cung Cave Exploration - We progress to the magnificent Thien Cung Cave. Known as the "Heavenly Palace," this cave is celebrated for its vast chambers and intricate stalactite formations that create a mystical, otherworldly atmosphere.
09:45 – 10:00: Brunch & Check-out - Return to the ship to finalize check-out procedures while enjoying a final, delightful brunch at our restaurant.
11:00 – 11:30: Disembarkation - We arrive back at Tuan Chau Marina, where we bid you a warm farewell as your journey with us concludes.
You will be met at the cruise waiting lounge, then transferred to Hanoi. The journey takes approximately 2.5–3 hours, with an optional restroom stop along the way.
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.
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.
First, we’ll visit 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.
Afterwards, we explore Phung Hung House, located in the heart of Hoi An and built in the 18th century, is a testament to the town’s golden age of cultural exchange. This historic home has been lived in by more than eight generations of the same family. Meet a local guide—who is also a family member - and follow her as she introduces you to the unique heritage and values preserved in the house.
Next, we visit Hoian museum of history and culture. The display of the Sa Huynh Culture (before the 2nd centuries AD), Champa culture (the 2nd-15th centuries AD) and Dai Viet, Dai Nam Culture (the 16th-19th centuries) artifacts, with some huge bells, historic photos, old scales and weights alongside plenty of ceramics. It is enriched by the interesting things about the oldest street, the folk meaning and conception of the “eyes” on the doors of ancient houses and of the spiral carved patterns “De leaf” “Yin and Yang”, and many others.
To end the day, enjoy a stroll through the Hoian center market where is the best place to see the local daily life. Situated on the riverside, the large market is packed with stalls where you easily find a huge variety of food at extremely cheap prices. There is also a great fresh vegetable, meat and fish market which is worth visiting.
Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in the heart of Hoi An. From there, we’ll head to Hue, passing through Da Nang. The journey takes about 3-4 hours, taking you along some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in central Vietnam, including My Khe Beach, fishing villages, the Hai Van Pass, and Lang Co Lagoon.
We begin our discovery of Hue with 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.
8:00 AM: We continue exploring Hue with a visit to tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, an architectural masterpiece that harmoniously highlights the nature and imperial religious works. The tomb was planned during Minh Mang’s reign (1820–40) but built by his successor, Thieu Tri with the effort of ten thousand workers and artisans.
Next, take a boat along Huong River (or Perfume River) to Thuy Bieu Village, admire the picturesque landscapes on both sides. After 1 hour, we arrive to Thuy Bieu, well-known for its divine grapefruit trees where you can take a bike around the village under the shade of the grapefruit trees and enjoy their pleasant perfume aroma and the harvested straw. The peaceful atmosphere is in every corner of the village. Then, visit a temple dedicated to the village protector, a traditional garden house built several centuries ago. This is a wonderful opportunity to stop for great photos and interact with the villagers working in the gardens and vegetable fields which should not be missed.
To end the day, we visit 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.
Our driver picks you up from your hotel lobby in Hue City and transfers you to Phu Bai Airport. The journey takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
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.
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.
Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City and take you to Tan Son Nhat Airport.
Traveling with more than 8 people? You can select a different group size in the next step.
Group Size 9+Dec 15, 2025
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 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.
Valid travel insurance is mandatory to participate in the tour. It must cover the following:
Before departure, please provide us with the following information:
Please check whether your credit card already provides coverage and consider purchasing additional insurance if necessary.
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:
Please pack clothing suitable for each region according to your itinerary.
Vietnam operates on GMT+7 year-round. There is no seasonal time change.
The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). US dollars and euros are sometimes accepted in hotels, but this is not guaranteed.
Tip: Avoid using old, damaged, or torn banknotes, as they are often refused for payment.
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.
If you have a connecting domestic flight in Vietnam, please follow these steps upon arrival:
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.
No mandatory vaccinations are required to enter Vietnam.
However, health authorities recommend the following vaccinations, especially for long stays or travel in rural areas:
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.
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
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.
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.
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:
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.
