Vietnam Scenic Journey - From South to North - 13 Days

13 Days      
Saigon - Ho Chi Minh city
My Tho
Cu Chi Tunnels
Hoi An - Ancient town
Hoi An - Cam Thanh Village
Ninh Binh - Tam Coc
Emperor Cruises Halong Bay
Overview
hoi-an-24.webp
  • Start/End: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)/Hanoi
  • Route: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - My Tho - Da Nang - Hoi An - Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay
  • Duration: 13 Days
  • Theme: Culture and Heritage, Nature & Discover
  • Tour type: Group tour ( Max 12 Adults)
  • Tour schedule: Daily Departure
  • Tour guide in: English
Highlight

Join us on this 13-day journey across Vietnam, from the southern to the northern regions, as we explore the country’s most iconic highlights, including Ho Chi Minh City, My Tho in the Mekong Delta, the Cu Chi Tunnels, Hoi An, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Halong Bay. This tour strikes the perfect balance between private airport transfers and group day trips, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers and solo adventurers who want to save money while meeting like-minded individuals. Immerse yourself in Vietnam’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes as you visit its most famous destinations.

Notes
This is not a group tour from start to finish; instead, you will join different group tours in various cities, which we co-organize with our local partners. Each day, you’ll be part of a new group of fellow travelers. After receiving your inquiry, one of our travel consultants will promptly get in touch to confirm the availability of your trip.
Itinerary
Day by day itinerary Expand all days
  • Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, pickup at airport and transfer to hotel

    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:
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Calista Saigon Hotel(Deluxe Room)
    247 – 249 Ly Tu Trong St., Ben Thanh Ward, Dist 1, Ho Chi Minh city, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Ho Chi Minh city tour 1d (group tour)

    Our tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in downtown Ho Chi Minh City (District 1). If you stay outside district 1, you will need to arrange on your own the transport to our meeting point. From there, we'll hop into a bus and begin our exploration of the city.

    Our first stop will be the Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace, built on the site of the former Norodom Palace. The Independence Palace is a famous landmark in Ho Chi Minh City and was designed by the architect Ngo Viet Thu.

    Next, we'll admire the beautiful structures from the French Colonial era, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office. We'll then visit the remarkable War Remnants Museum, which has a vast display covering both the Indochina wars.

    Afterward, we'll have lunch at a local restaurant.

    In the afternoon, we’ll transfer to the bustling Big Market, known locally as Cho Lon, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and explore a variety of goods ranging from fresh produce to traditional Vietnamese crafts. Adjacent to the market is Thien Hau Pagoda, a stunning 19th-century Chinese temple dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. Here, you can admire the intricate architecture, colorful murals, and beautiful incense coils hanging from the ceiling, creating a serene and mystical ambiance.

    Next, we will continue to Bach Dang Harbor. After checking in and getting your waterbus tickets, find your seat, and the boat will depart. During the trip, you'll enjoy unique views of the city's most iconic commercial buildings, including the Vinhomes Central Park urban area, the magnificent Landmark 81 tower, the Bitexco Financial Tower, and the green and peaceful District 2. Many stunning moments await you.

    Discover the soul of this land – the Saigon River by waterbus. You may find many wonders and gain a more accurate view of the land once called the Paris of Indochina or the Pearl of the Far East.

    Afterward, we'll transfer you back to your hotel in District 1 or to the meeting point, concluding the trip around 18:00 PM.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Calista Saigon Hotel(Deluxe Room)
    247 – 249 Ly Tu Trong St., Ben Thanh Ward, Dist 1, Ho Chi Minh city, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Day trip to My Tho - Mekong Delta (group tour)

    Our tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in downtown Ho Chi Minh City (District 1). From there, we'll head to My Tho, a town on the left side of the Mekong River.

    Upon arrival, we'll visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, which dates back to the late 19th century. Then, we'll board a sampan and cruise down the river around the four beautiful islands known as Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise Islands.

    We'll stop at Unicorn Island to walk along the country lanes, visit orchards, enjoy tropical fruits, and listen to folk songs performed by local people. We'll also visit a fruit plantation.

    Next, we'll ride a hand-rowed sampan through Thoi Son Canal to experience the beauty of the countryside. We'll visit a family business, a honey-bee farm, and enjoy honey tea and a coconut candy workshop.

    We'll have lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a break. In the afternoon, we'll cycle around Tan Thach Village, meeting local villagers to experience daily life in the Mekong Delta. For those who prefer not to cycle, there will be time to relax in a hammock and enjoy the cool breeze.

    Finally, we'll return to Saigon, and you'll be dropped off at your hotel around 5:30 PM, concluding the trip.

     

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Boat: My Tho
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Calista Saigon Hotel(Deluxe Room)
    247 – 249 Ly Tu Trong St., Ben Thanh Ward, Dist 1, Ho Chi Minh city, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Half day trip to Cu Chi tunnels (group tour)

    Our tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in downtown Ho Chi Minh City (District 1). From there, we'll head to Cu Chi, which will take approximately one and a half hours by bus.

    Upon arrival in Cu Chi, you'll first watch a short introduction video about how the tunnels were constructed and how people survived in the harsh conditions of wartime. After the video, you'll have time to explore the remaining areas and tunnel systems. These include specially constructed living areas with kitchens and bedrooms, alongside military facilities such as storage, weapons factories, field hospitals, and command centers that helped tunnel inhabitants meet their basic needs. Additionally, you'll see many hidden trap doors and dangerous traps within the maze-like tunnels that provided security during the war.

    Afterward, special tea and cassava (the guerrillas' food during the war) will be served. You'll then have some break time to relax or, for those interested, to try real shooting guns (for an additional charge).

    Finally, we will return to Saigon, and you will be dropped off at your hotel at around 2:00 - 2:30 PM, concluding the trip.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Calista Saigon Hotel(Deluxe Room)
    247 – 249 Ly Tu Trong St., Ben Thanh Ward, Dist 1, Ho Chi Minh city, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Transfer to Tan Son Nhat airport, fly to Da Nang, and travel to Hoi An

    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, whether you're heading to the international or domestic terminal.

    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 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:
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    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)
    116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam
  • Hoi An city tour with boat ride & release flower lantern (group tour)

    2:30 PM: Our tour guide will meet you at your hotel in Hoi An ancient town. From there, we’ll set off for our exploration.

    First, you'll visit the bustling Hoi An Market, a vibrant hub full of sights, colors, sounds, and smells—an unmissable shopping experience. Next, you'll explore the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall, a colorful blend of bright gates, dragon statues, and elaborate rooftops. Here, you'll get an introduction to ancestor worship, visiting the family altar and observing local devotees making offerings.

    You’ll also visit remarkably well-preserved old houses like the Phung Hung Ancient House or the Tan Ky Ancient House, both of which have withstood 200 years of weather and war. Learn about the prosperous merchants who once lived here, trading with buyers from around the world. 

    Afterward, head to the Museum of Folk Culture in Hoi An, where artifacts depict ancient local daily life in a 150-year-old Chinese merchant house. Don’t miss the art performances at the Hoi An Traditional Performing Arts House.

    Make a stop at the Japanese Bridge, which spans a small waterway and was built over 400 years ago to connect the Japanese community with the Chinese residents on the other side. Admire the intricate carvings and paintings inside the bridge, learning about their symbolism and cultural significance.

    Additionally, visit some of Hoi An’s well-known handicraft shops and art galleries. Explore smaller laneways and local neighborhoods, deepening your appreciation of Hoi An’s endless charm.

    End your day with a boat ride, where you can release a flower lantern to pray for good luck for you and your family. You’ll be immersed in the magical ambiance of the lantern-lit streets. The tour concludes at 6:00 PM.  

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B
    Boat: Thu Bon river
    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
  • Explore Cam Thanh coconut village and experience bamboo basket boat ride (group tour)

    9:00 AM: Our friendly tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Hoi An Ancient Town. From there, we’ll transfer to Cam Thanh village.

    Upon arrival, you'll meet local fishermen and get a firsthand look at their daily lives. Experience traditional fishing methods with both round nets and cast nets, guided by the local fishermen. Learn to paddle a unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boat and even join in on a basket boat race. You'll also enjoy a basket boat performance. Try your hand at crab catching and net casting.

    Afterward, we'll head back to a fisherman’s house for a cooking show, featuring a fire performance by the master chef. If you're interested, you can even step in as the chef yourself.

    Next, we'll enjoy a meal of local dishes. Finally, we'll transfer you back to your hotel in Hoi An.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Boat: Cam Thanh
    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, fly to Hanoi

    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 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:
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
    Flight :Flight (DAD - HAN) - (Direct) / - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 02 tickets
    Hong Ngoc Dynastie Hotel(Deluxe City View Room)
    34 Hang Manh street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
  • Hanoi city tour 1 day (group tour)

    8:00 - 8:30 AM: Our tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. If you are staying outside the Old Quarter, you can either arrange your own transportation to our departure point or we can arrange a hotel pick-up for an additional fee. From there, we will start our exploration of the city.

    08:45: Our first stop will be at the Ho Chi Minh Complex, the final resting place of Vietnam's revered leader, Uncle Ho. You’ll have the chance to view the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh and stroll through the garden to see the two houses where he lived and worked from 1954 to 1969. Afterward, we’ll visit the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique structure dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy.

    10:15: Next, we’ll explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the diverse cultures of the 54 ethnic groups that call Vietnam home. (Please note: If the museum is closed on Mondays, we will visit the Vietnamese Women’s Museum instead.)

    12:30 - 12:45: Enjoy a lunch break at our restaurant, where you can savor Vietnamese cuisine. Vegetarian options are available upon request (please inform us when booking).

    13:30: We’ll then visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, located on Golden Fish Island in West Lake. This is the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, dating back to the 6th century.

    14:30: Our next stop is the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, founded in 1070. It’s one of Northern Vietnam’s most popular tourist attractions.

    15:30: We’ll continue to Hoa Lo Prison, originally built by the French from 1886 to 1901 during their occupation of Vietnam. Known as “Maison Centrale” by the French, this site is now a museum, offering insights into Vietnam’s struggle against French colonial rule.

    16:30: Finally, our bus will take you back to your hotel, concluding our one-day city tour.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    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
  • Day trip to Hoa Lu & Tam Coc (group tour)

    7:00 - 7:30 AM: Our tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. If you are staying outside the Old Quarter, you can either arrange your own transportation to our departure point or we can arrange a hotel pick-up for an additional fee. We will then set off for Ninh Binh. The province is located about 120 km from the center of Hanoi, and the journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.

    9:00 AM: We'll make a brief stop along the way for you to stretch and relax.

    10:30 AM: Upon arriving in Ninh Binh, our first stop will be Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010. Here, you'll have the opportunity to delve into Vietnamese history, exploring the feudal system under the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties.

    11:30: We'll hop on bikes for a 45-minute ride through the village, giving you a chance to experience local life firsthand.

    12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, featuring regional specialties like goat meat and fried rice. Vegetarian options are also available at the buffet.

    13:30 - 14:00: After lunch, we'll embark on a 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride to explore Tam Coc. As we glide along, you'll be captivated by the picturesque beauty of the area, with its lush paddy fields, winding river, and stunning cave formations, all set against a backdrop of sky and clouds. This enchanting landscape, often referred to as 'Halong Bay on land,' truly lives up to its name.

    4:00 PM: We’ll board the bus for our return trip to Hanoi.

    6:30 - 7:00 PM: Arrive back in Hanoi, with drop-off at your hotel in the Old Quarter, concluding our one-day excursion.

    Included:
    English speaking guide
    Meal: B, L
    Boat: Tam Coc
    Transportation
    Entrance fees
    Bike: Ninh Binh
    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 from Hanoi to Halong city by shuttle bus, embark at Tuan Chau port, and cruise in Halong bay (join-in cruise)

    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.

    11:45 AM - 12:00 PM: Receptionists warmly welcome guests at Tuan Chau Harbor.

    12:45 PM: Guests board Syrena Cruises via tender, where the captain greets you. Check in while enjoying a welcome drink, followed by a safety briefing as you settle into your cabin.

    1:00 PM: Set sail from Tuan Chau International Harbor to explore the stunning Halong Bay, one of the world's natural wonders. Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local specialties as you cruise past iconic sights such as Ba Hang Fishing Village, Dinh Huong Island, Cho Da Islet, and Ga Choi Islet.

    2:30 PM: The cruise makes a stop at Bo Nau Cave, located in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a tender to visit Surprising Cave, one of the most magnificent caves in Halong Bay.

    3:45 PM: Depart Surprising Cave and transfer by tender to Titov Island, named by President Ho Chi Minh in honor of Soviet astronaut Gherman Titov, who visited in 1962. Here, you can swim, relax on the beach, or hike up to the island’s summit for a breathtaking panoramic view of Halong Bay.

    4:45 PM: Return to the cruise. Unwind and enjoy the sunset on the sundeck as we cruise to our overnight anchorage.

    6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: HAPPY HOUR – Buy one drink, get one free (wine excluded). Also, enjoy a Vietnamese cooking demonstration.

    7:00 PM: Savor a buffet dinner.

    8:30 PM: After dinner, enjoy evening activities like movie entertainment in the dining room or try your hand at squid fishing.

    Included:
    English speaking guide (on board)
    Meal: B, L, D
    Entrance fees
    Leisure: Squid fishing
    Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
    Syrena Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Cabin)
    Green Bay bulding, Hoang Quoc Viet street, Hung Thang ward, Halong city, Quang Ninh , Vietnam
  • Cruise ends, disembark, and travel back to Hanoi by shuttle bus.

    6:30 AM: Start your day with a 30-minute Tai Chi session on the sundeck as we cruise toward Luon Cave.

    7:00 AM: Enjoy a light breakfast in the dining room, featuring coffee, tea, fresh milk, water, pastries, bread, eggs, fresh fruit, and cereals.

    8:00 AM: Visit Luon Cave, renowned for its beautiful endemic vegetation in Halong Bay. Explore the cave on a traditional bamboo boat, rowed by a local boatman.

    8:30 AM: Return to Syrena Cruise to relax and prepare for check-out. Please place your luggage outside your cabin door, where our porters will collect and have it ready for you at the pier.

    9:15 AM: Final check-out. Enjoy a brunch buffet in the dining room, and settle any bills after your meal (if applicable).

    10:45 AM: Transfer by tender back to Tuan Chau Harbor and disembark.

    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:
    English speaking guide (on board)
    Meal: B, L
    Boat: Halong bamboo boat
    Entrance fees
    Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
    Hong Ngoc Dynastie Hotel(Deluxe City View Room)
    34 Hang Manh street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
  • Transfer to Noi Bai airport

    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, whether you're heading to the international or domestic terminal, depending on your needs.

    Included:
    Meal: B
    Transportation
    02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Inclusions
  • English speaking tour guide following itinerary
  • All entrance fees and tickets mention on itinerary
  • Selected Accommodations with daily breakfast
  • Cruise: Syrena Cruise - 2D1N
  • Boat: My Tho, Thu Bon river, Cam Thanh, Tam Coc, Halong bamboo boat
  • Transportation
  • Flight Tickets: Flight SGN - DAD (Vietnam Airlines - Economy) , Flight DAD - HAN (Vietnam Airlines - Economy)
  • Meal: Breakfast: 12, Lunch: 07, Dinner: 01
  • Bike: Ninh Binh
  • Leisure: Squid fishing, Morning Tai Chi
  • Cooking class: Halong (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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Price per person in US$
  • Adult in sharing Twin/double room$1,066
  • Adult in single room $1,487

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