Embark on a 15-day journey that reveals Vietnam’s most iconic highlights - from the timeless charm of Hanoi to the lush valleys and ethnic traditions of Mai Chau, followed by the karst landscapes and rural serenity of Ninh Binh. Continue your experience on the tranquil waters and limestone formations of Lan Ha Bay before exploring the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and the imperial legacy of Hue. The adventure unfolds further in the vibrant rhythm of Ho Chi Minh City, then slows again along the peaceful waterways of the Mekong Delta.
Designed as a self-guided adventure, it allows you to explore Vietnam at your own rhythm while enjoying a seamless arrangement of hotels, domestic flights, transfers, a cruise on Lan Ha Bay, and an excursion into the Mekong Delta. You are free to choose what to visit and to follow your interests as you encounter Vietnam's unmissable sites.
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.
The rest of the day is free at your leisure. Lunch and dinner are at your own expense. Overnight stay in Hanoi.
You have the full day to discover Hanoi at your own pace. Below is a suggested highlights if you’d like some inspiration.
Temple of Literature: Wander through the peaceful gardens, admire Khue Van Cac, and explore Vietnam’s first national university with its UNESCO-recognized stone steles.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays): A fascinating look into the country’s diverse ethnic cultures, featuring traditional houses, costumes, and daily-life artifacts.
Lunch: Try Hanoi’s signature grilled fish dish – “Cha ca”, served with herbs, rice noodles and a tangy sauce, or opt for “Bun cha”, a beloved local classic of grilled pork, vermicelli and fresh herbs.
Ho Chi Minh Complex (outside only): Stroll through tree-lined boulevards, see the Mausoleum from the outside, then continue to the Presidential Palace area, Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house and the One Pillar Pagoda.
Egg Coffee: Relax in a traditional café and enjoy this creamy Hanoi specialty born in the colonial era.
Old Quarter: Explore the 36 historic streets, bustling markets, temples and iconic tube houses. Walking is the best way to feel the district’s vibrant rhythm.
Lunch and dinner are at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hanoi.
8:00: Meet tour guide and driver then depart to Mai Chau. On the way, visit a Muong village. Continue to Thung Khe pass where you can view magnificent panoramic views of the valley before arriving in Mai Chau town. Mai Chau is a beautiful valley located 145 km away from Hanoi. It is great place with harmonious landscapes, green mountain ranges, rice terraces and White Thai ethnic villages.
Upon arrival in Mai Chau, enjoy a home-hosted lunch. In the afternoon, explore Mai Hich village by bike (optional) or walk along the trails and concrete roads. You will be seduced by the gorgeous landscapes as the villages, rice fields, mountains and streams are in perfect harmony with one another. Do not miss the opportunity to communicate with the friendly local people who are always willing to welcome you into their house to enjoy a cup of tea.
Distance: approx. 6 km (walking) or 12 km (cycling)
Dinner and overnight in Mai Chau.
Depart for Ninh Binh, with optional stops en route to stretch your legs or capture moments of rural daily life.
Upon arrival in Ninh Binh, we will make our first stop in 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.
Then, we make our way to 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.
To wrap up the day, Bich Dong pagoda, a typical pagoda in the countryside of the Red River Delta, built in the 15th century. On arrival, you will cross a stone bridge to Chua Ha, from which over 100 steps lead to Chua Trung – the cave pagoda with unique clay statues. You will then hike up to Chua Thuong. You not only have the chance to learn about Buddhism but also get to experience incredible countryside views.
Transfer to Van Long. Dinner and overnight stay in Van Long.
8:30: To begin the day’s activities, you may choose to enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the dyke, offering beautiful views of rice paddies and dramatic limestone mountains. Along the way, feel free to stop for photos or brief encounters with local villagers, providing an authentic glimpse into daily rural life.
The ride leads to Thung La Temple, a peaceful and little-visited temple dating back to the 11th century. Nestled at the foot of limestone cliffs and surrounded by farmland, the temple reflects early Vietnamese spiritual architecture and local religious traditions. Here, you'll listen to a traditional musical performance, offering insight into the region’s cultural heritage.
Afterwards, return to Van Long Nature Reserve for a tranquil sampan boat ride through a vast landscape of limestone karsts and wetlands. As one of Vietnam’s largest nature reserves and a Ramsar-listed wetland of international importance, Van Long is known for its rich biodiversity. With a bit of luck, you may spot Delacour’s langurs (white monkeys), egrets, or other water birds resting on the cliffs and along the marshes.
Cycling distance: approximately 10 km (one way) or 20 km (round trip)Note: Travelers who prefer not to cycle may ride as a passenger on a scooter or travel comfortably to the temple by car.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, we continue to Lang Van Church, one of the most striking contemporary religious landmarks in Ninh Binh. Designed in an impressive Gothic style, the church is characterized by pointed arches, soaring vaulted ceilings, and an imposing bell tower rising over 100 meters, making it one of the tallest church towers in Vietnam.
We then take part in an embroidery workshop led by Mrs. Lam, a local master craftswoman. With great pride, she introduces the traditional embroidery techniques passed down through generations. Under her guidance, you have the chance to work with needle and fabric, gaining hands-on experience and a deeper appreciation of this delicate craft, just like a local artisan.
Dinner and overnight stay in Van Long.
Our limousine driver will pick you up at your hotel for a shared transfer to Halong. The journey takes around 3.5–4 hours, with an optional stop for a restroom break along the way. Upon arrival, you will be dropped off at Tuan Chau Pier to board your cruise.
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.
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.
The cruise shuttle bus driver meets you at the Cruise Waiting Lounge and transfers you back to Hanoi. You are dropped off in the Old Quarter, where your private driver picks you up for the onward transfer to Noi Bai Airport.
Take a short flight to Da Nang City.
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.
Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hoi An.
Enjoy a full free day to discover Hoi An in the way that suits you best. Below are suggested activities if you’d like some inspiration.
Basket Boat Experience: Visit to Cam Thanh village, known for its peaceful waterways and centuries-old nipa palm forests. Here, you can enjoy a relaxing ride in a traditional bamboo basket boat and try simple crab fishing — a light, fun activity close to nature.
Hoi An Ancient Town: Wander the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town at your own pace. You may visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, old merchant houses, temples, and the vibrant local market.
Tailor-made clothing: Hoi An is also one of the best places in Vietnam for tailor-made clothing, with skilled tailors offering high-quality garments often completed within 24 hours.
Lunch: You may like to try Cao lau — a regional specialty with thick noodles, pork slices, crispy croutons, and fresh herbs found only in Hoi An — or Mi Quang, turmeric noodles topped with pork, shrimp, herbs, and a light, fragrant broth.
Lunch and dinner are at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hoi An.
Enjoy a full free day to discover Hoi An in the way that suits you best. Below are suggested activities if you’d like some inspiration.
Tra Que Farming Village: Famous for its aromatic herbs such as mint and basil, Tra Que offers a pleasant glimpse into traditional vegetable cultivation and the use of plants in Vietnamese medicine. A short visit brings you close to local farmers and provides lovely photo opportunities in a peaceful rural setting.
Thanh Ha Pottery Village: Located just 2 km from town, Thanh Ha is known for its centuries-old pottery tradition, still practiced by 23 local families since the 16th century. You can admire restored pottery pieces in an ancient house and continue with a visit to the village’s private porcelain museum.
Kim Bong Carpentry Village: Renowned for wood carving, Kim Bong’s craftsmen originally learned techniques from northern Vietnam and later integrated Chinese and Japanese influences to develop their own distinctive style. A visit reveals fine traditional workmanship and a vibrant artisanal heritage.
Lunch and dinner are at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hoi An.
8:00: 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.
Upon arrival in Hue, you are dropped off at your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the city at your own pace. If you’d like some inspiration, here are a few suggested activities:
The Imperial Citadel: Discover Hue’s former imperial capital, designed with Vauban-style defensive architecture. Key highlights include the Flag Tower, the South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, ancestral temples, and the surviving halls of the Forbidden City.
Dong Ba Market: Stroll through bustling aisles filled with fresh produce, local snacks, conical hats, and traditional handicrafts - a lively window into everyday life in Hue.
Lunch and dinner are at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hue.
The morning is free for you to relax or continue exploring Hue at your own pace. If you’d like some ideas for a gentle and meaningful start to the day, you may consider visiting:
Thien Mu Pagoda: One of Hue’s oldest spiritual landmarks, founded in 1601. Its distinctive octagonal tower and sweeping views over the Perfume River make it an inspiring place to understand the spiritual heritage of the former capital.
Minh Mang’s Tomb: An architectural masterpiece that harmoniously blends imperial design with serene natural landscapes. Initiated during Emperor Minh Mang’s reign (1820–1840) and completed by Emperor Thieu Tri, the complex showcases the refined craftsmanship of thousands of artisans of the Nguyen era.
Thuy Bieu Village: A peaceful riverside village known for its fragrant pomelo gardens. You can opt for an easy bicycle ride through shaded lanes, stopping at ancestral temples, century-old garden houses, and small vegetable plots tended by local families.
In the afternoon, your driver transfers you to Phu Bai Airport for your flight to Saigon.
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.
Lunch and dinner are at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.
You have a full day to explore Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace. If you’d like some inspiration, here are a few suggested highlights:
Independence Palace: Former residence and workplace of the South Vietnamese presidents, featuring preserved 1960s–1970s interiors and the iconic tank that marked the end of the Vietnam War in 1975.
War Remnants Museum: A powerful museum offering a comprehensive perspective on the Vietnam War through photographs, documents, and thematic exhibitions.
Lunch: Popular options include banh xeo, com tam, or a Southern-style seafood meal — all excellent introductions to Saigon’s vibrant food culture.
Quan Am Pagoda: One of the city’s oldest pagodas, dedicated to Guan Yin and influenced by Taoist traditions. A peaceful stop rich in spiritual atmosphere.
Binh Tay Market: Located in the heart of Chinatown, this bustling wholesale market offers clothing, souvenirs, spices, snacks, and a lively food court where you can sample authentic local dishes.
Lunch and dinner are at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.
7:30: Meet your tour guide and driver for the transfer to Cai Be, a tranquil riverside town renowned for its traditional handicrafts, lush orchards, and authentic Mekong Delta way of life.
Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the gentle rhythm of the legendary Mekong River as you board a boat and cruise through narrow canals shaded by tropical fruit gardens. Stop at local craft workshops to observe the production of rice popcorn, coconut caramel, and traditional rice cakes.
Continue with a leisurely bike ride or a relaxed walk along quiet village paths to visit the ancient Phu Chau Pagoda, a serene spiritual site where time seems to slow down. Along the way, enjoy warm interactions with local residents.
Lunch is served at an open-air restaurant, where you'll savor a Mekong Delta specialty.
In the afternoon, unwind with a fresh fruit tasting while gliding on a small rowboat through peaceful, palm-lined canals beneath overhanging fruit trees. Continue your boat journey to Vinh Long, where your driver awaits for the transfer to Can Tho.
Arrive in Can Tho in the late afternoon and check in to your hotel.
Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Can Tho.
Transfer to the local boat pier and board a traditional boat for a morning cruise to Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest and most vibrant floating market in the Mekong Delta. From early dawn, dozens of wooden boats gather on the river, loaded with rice, tropical fruits, vegetables, and local produce. The air is filled with colors, sounds, and the distinctive aromas of river life, creating a lively snapshot of Mekong trading traditions that have lasted for generations.
Leaving the floating market behind, continue cruising through a network of smaller canals, where daily life unfolds quietly along the riverbanks. Stop at a local fruit garden to taste seasonal fruits and learn about traditional farming methods in the Delta.
Return to An Binh Market, a lively neighborhood market serving local residents. Here, stalls overflow with fresh fish from nearby rivers, tropical fruits, herbs, and vegetables. Unlike tourist-oriented markets, An Binh Market offers an authentic glimpse into everyday Mekong life, where vendors and buyers interact in a warm, local atmosphere.
The journey continues to Binh Thuy ancient house, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved heritage houses in the Mekong Delta. Built in the late 19th century, the house blends French colonial architecture with traditional Southern Vietnamese design. Its elegant wooden interior, antique furniture, and lush orchid garden make it a cultural highlight. The house also gained international fame as a filming location for the movie The Lover.
Our driver will pick you up in Can Tho and take you directly to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. The transfer takes approximately 4 hours, with an optional stop along the way.
Lunch and dinner are at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.
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+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 French-speaking 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.
