Vietnam & Laos Explorer: History, Culture & Scenery  14 Days  

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Thanh Nguyen Temple Van Long
Ninh Binh - Van Long
Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Hanoi - Hoa Lo Prison
Halong Bay
Halong Bay Landscape
Hoi An - Lantern Market
Hoi An town
Vientiane Laos
Vientiane Laos
Vang Vieng
Vang Vieng
Overview
ninh-binh-28_2025-02-21_879.webp
  • Start/End: Hanoi/Vientiane
  • Route: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - Vientiane - Vang Vieng
  • Duration: 14 Days
  • Theme: Culture and Heritage
  • Tour type: Private tour
  • Tour schedule: Daily departure
  • Tour guide in: English
Highlight

Embark on this 14-day journey to discover the essential highlights of Vietnam and Laos! Traveling from northern to southern Vietnam, through the central region, and concluding in Vientiane, Laos, this carefully crafted itinerary combines the must-see attractions of each country. Explore Hanoi's iconic landmarks and the famous Train Street, relax on a boutique cruise through the stunning Halong Bay, wander through the historic town of Hoi An, and uncover the fascinating history of the Cu Chi Tunnels. Then, continue your adventure in Laos, exploring its capital, Vientiane, and the scenic landscapes of Vang Vieng. Get ready for a trip filled with culture, history, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable memories!

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

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

    Included:
    Transportation
    Hong Ngoc Dynastie Hotel(Deluxe City View Room)
    34 Hang Manh street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
  • Discover Hanoi's major attractions, the famous Train Street, and enjoy a Water Puppet show

    9:00 AM: Get pick up by tour guide to the 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.

    Continue to 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, you visit the 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 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. If you're lucky, you might witness a train passing right in front of you—a thrilling and unforgettable experience. While you're there, relax with a local drink at one of the cozy trackside cafes and soak in the unique atmosphere.

    Exploring the Hanoi Old Quarter which was built in the 15th century as a trading center in the capital city with 36 streets of different products. Despite the changes, the Old Quarter is always considered a live city museum. The unique tube houses, small alleys, temples, open door markets and street vendor foods come together in a beautiful harmony. Discovering the town by walking is the best way to stimulate all your senses.      

    Finally, enjoying 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.

    Come back to hotel. End of the day

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Leisure: Water puppet
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Hong Ngoc Dynastie Hotel(Deluxe City View Room)
    34 Hang Manh street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
  • Travel to Ninh Binh, explore the Saint Nguyen Temple, attend an embroidery workshop, and enjoy a sampan boat ride.

    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 Ninh Binh. 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 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.

    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.  

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L, D
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Nep House(Double Room)
    Lang Noi, Lang Van, Gia Lap, Gia Vien, Ninh Binh , Vietnam
  • Experience a bike ride, discover Vietnamese spiritual life at Thung La Temple, and journey back to Hanoi.

    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.

    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
    Bike: Ninh Binh
    Leisure: Thung La temple music
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Hong Ngoc Dynastie Hotel(Deluxe City View Room)
    34 Hang Manh street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
  • Travel to Halong, embark at Tuan Chau, cruise to Halong bay, discover the pearl farm and Sung Sot cave.

    8:00 – 8:30 AM: 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: Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina and check in at the waiting lounge.

    12:00: Board the cruise ship, enjoy welcome drinks, and receive a short briefing. Check into your room and prepare for lunch.

    12:30: Indulge in a Vietnamese and international lunch while taking in the scenic beauty of the bay, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, Fighting Cock Islet, and Three Coconuts Island.

    14:30: Explore Halong Bay further by visiting the Pearl Farm. This is an ideal opportunity for kayaking and experiencing the timeless beauty of Ha Long Bay up close.

    16:00: Explore Sung Sot Cave, also known as the Grotte des Surprising, the largest limestone cave in the area. Marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. (Proper footwear is highly recommended, especially in wet conditions.)

    17:45: Return to the boat and enjoy the bar’s Happy Hour (buy 2, get 1 free).

    (Option: Massage service available. Please book directly with the Cruise Manager.)

    19:30: Delight in a deluxe dinner featuring traditional and fusion dishes prepared by our talented chefs.

    21:00: After dinner, unwind at the bar and spa, participate in squid fishing, watch a movie in your cabin, play cards or chess, or simply relax on the sundeck.

    23:00: Overnight on board.

    Included:
    Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
    English speaking guide (on board)
    Meal: B, L, D
    Entrance fees
    Kayak: Halong
    Leisure: Swimming,Squid fishing
    Mila Cruise - 3D2N(Deluxe Cabin)
    7 Nghi Tam, Tay Ho, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
  • Enjoy swimming, kayaking in Trinh Nu area, explore Me Cung cave, and participate in a cooking demonstration.

    06:15: Experience the beauty of the bay in the morning with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, followed by breakfast to refresh yourself.

    06:30: Enjoy breakfast with coffee, tea, and pastries served in the restaurant.

    08:30: Head to Trinh Nu Cave for swimming and kayaking in the crystal-clear waters and on the beautiful white sandy beach.

    11:30: Savor a set lunch menu.

    14:30: Explore Me Cung Cave.

    16:30: Return to the cruise ship.

    17:30: Enjoy a Sunset Party with fruits and snacks on the sundeck.

    (Option: Massage service available, please book directly with the Cruise Manager.)

    18:30: Participate in a joint cooking demonstration: Learn how to make Vietnamese spring rolls, a traditional Vietnamese dish.

    19:30: Enjoy a set menu dinner.

    21:00: Join the squid fishing activity or enjoy free time on the boat.

    Included:
    English speaking guide (on board)
    Meal: B, L, D
    Entrance fees
    Kayak: Halong
    Leisure: Swimming,Morning Tai Chi,Squid fishing
    Cooking class: Lan Ha (on board) - cooking demonstration
  • Visit Titop island, cruise back to Tuan Chau, disembark, return to Hanoi, fly to Da Nang, and transfer to Hoi An

    06:15: Start your day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck to awaken your senses, followed by breakfast in the restaurant.

    06:30: Enjoy breakfast with coffee, tea, and pastries.

    07:30: Visit Titov Island, known for its stunning sandy beaches and panoramic views of the bay from the top of the limestone island. (Proper footwear is recommended, especially when wet.)

    09:30: Return to the cruise ship. Check out and settle your bill at the reception.

    10:00: Enjoy brunch while cruising back to Tuan Chau Marina. Relax on the sundeck or in the restaurant.

    11:30: Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina and bid farewell to the crew.

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

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

    Upon your arrival at Da Nang airport, our local driver will greet you and transfer you to your accommodation in Hoi An, a journey of approximately 1 hour. 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
    Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Flight :Flight (HAN - DAD) - (Direct) / - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 02 tickets
    Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room)
    116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
  • Take a stroll through Hoi An's ancient town to discover its essential highlights.

    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.

    Firstly, visit the 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.

    Continue visit a special ancient house. Located in the center of Hoian, 18th century built, Phung Hung house is the evidence of culture exchanged in the splendid time of the town and has been used as home for more than eight generations. Meet local guide, also family member, follow she to discover the values of the house.

    After visit, enjoy a walk to 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.

    Finally, you have an excursion to 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.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room)
    116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
  • Transfer to Da Nang airport, take a flight to Ho Chi Minh city

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

    Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, our local driver will greet you at the pickup area and transfer you to your hotel in the city center (District 1). The drive takes approximately 60 minutes.

    After arriving at the hotel, you'll check in* and have the rest of the day free to relax or explore at your leisure.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Flight :Flight (DAD - SGN) - (Direct) / - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 02 tickets
    Sanouva Hotel(Premium Deluxe Double Room)
    177 Ly Tu Trong street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Explore the Cu Chi tunnels and get a glimpse of Vietnam's history

    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. 

    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)
    177 Ly Tu Trong street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Take a flight to Vientiane, pickup and transfer to hotel.

    Our driver will pick you up from your hotel lobby in Ho Chi Minh City and take you to Tan Son Nhat Airport. The drive typically takes 45 to 60 minutes.

    Please note that for domestic flights, you should arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure, and for international flights, at least 3 hours in advance. During rush hours (7:00–8:30 AM and 4:30–6:30 PM), the drive from downtown Ho Chi Minh City to Tan Son Nhat Airport can take more time. Plan accordingly to ensure a stress-free journey.

    Upon your arrival in Vientiane, the capital of Laos, our driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

    Included:
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    Flight :Flight (SGN - VTE) - (Transit flight) / - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 02 tickets
    Lao Orchid Hotel(Superior Room)
    Chao Anou Road, Watchan Village, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane, Laos
  • Discover Vientiane's major attractions and travel to Vang Vieng

    We begin our tour of Vientiane's major attractions. Our first stop is Wat Sisaket, the city’s oldest temple, home to thousands of miniature Buddha statues. Next, we visit the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which once housed the renowned Emerald Buddha. On the way to That Luang Stupa, Laos' most sacred national monument, you’ll have the chance to photograph the impressive Patuxay Monument, often referred to as Vientiane’s Arc de Triomphe.

    We'll head to the Buddha Park, an enchanting collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures set in a peaceful meadow along the Mekong River, near the Friendship Bridge. The park features around 200 religious statues, created over 500 years ago by a visionary monk to convey his philosophical ideas about life and the universe.

    Transfer to Vientiane train station to catch the train to Vang Vieng.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Train:Train (Vientiane - Vang Vieng) / - -/- / 02 tickets
    Silver Naga Hotel(Deluxe Room)
    Ban Savang Nam Song Riverside, Vang Vieng, Vang Vieng, Laos
  • Discover caves, exprience zipline, kayaking, and drive back to Vientiane.

    We’ll visit Tham Jang Cave, a historic refuge used by locals to protect themselves from Chinese invaders over 200 years ago.

    Next, we’ll head to the Tham Phoukham caves, where you'll be captivated by one of the most stunning and renowned limestone caverns, nestled amidst lush natural forests. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to interact with local villagers and learn about their daily way of life. In front of the caves, there's a small natural pool where you can take a refreshing swim to cool off from the heat or explore the surrounding area.

    We'll then transfer to Tham None Cave and take a short hike up to the hut on Phar None (Sleeping Wall), a perfect spot for capturing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Nam Song River. Here, you'll gear up for an exhilarating zipline adventure, soaring over the green forest and river below. There are six zipline routes to enjoy.

    Afterward, we’ll go on a leisurely kayaking trip down the beautiful Nam Song River, making our way back to Vang Vieng.

     

    We’ll drive back to Vientiane via the highway.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Kayak: Vang Vieng
    Lao Orchid Hotel(Superior Room)
    Chao Anou Road, Watchan Village, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane, Laos
  • Transfer to airport

    Enjoy some free time to relax before your transfer to the airport for departure.

    Included:
    Meal: B
    Transportation
Inclusions
  • English speaking tour guide following itinerary
  • All entrance fees and tickets mention on itinerary
  • Selected Accommodations with daily breakfast
  • Cruise: Mila Cruise - 3D2N
  • Transportation
  • Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
  • Train: Train (Vientiane - Vang Vieng)
  • Flight Tickets: Flight HAN - DAD (Vietnam Airlines - Economy) , Flight DAD - SGN (Vietnam Airlines - Economy) , Flight SGN - VTE (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
  • Meal: Breakfast: 13, Lunch: 07, Dinner: 03
  • Bike: Ninh Binh
  • Kayak: Halong, Vang Vieng
  • Leisure: Water puppet, Thung La temple music, Swimming, Squid fishing, Morning Tai Chi
  • Cooking class: 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 and depend on the size of your group.

  • Adult in sharing Twin/double room$2,233
  • Adult in single room $2,785

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