Discover Vietnam from north to south on this 15-day small group tour, featuring guaranteed departures and a maximum of 7 guests for a more personal travel experience. Journey from Hanoi through Mai Chau, Pu Luong, Ninh Binh, and an overnight cruise in Lan Ha Bay to the heritage towns of Hoi An and Hue, before ending in Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. Combining cultural landmarks, scenic landscapes, local cuisine, and authentic experiences, this itinerary offers a well-rounded introduction to Vietnam.
Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be greeted by our driver waiting at Column 11 outside the arrival hall. 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.
The rest of the day is free for you to explore Hanoi at your own pace. You may choose to enjoy a relaxing spa massage, browse local shops for souvenirs, or join an exciting Jeep adventure around the city.
Notes: Please note that these activities are provided as suggestions only and are not included in the tour price.
Meals are at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hanoi.
8:30: Start your day at the Temple of Litterature, founded in the 11th century under the Ly dynasty to honor Confucius and educate royal scholars. Stroll through its peaceful courtyards and gardens until you reach Khue Van Cac, the iconic pavilion that symbolizes Hanoi. Continue to the UNESCO-recognized stone steles, which record the names of Vietnam’s most outstanding graduates, before exploring Quoc Tu Giam, regarded as the country’s first national university.
Next, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays), an engaging institution that offers deep insight into the cultures of Vietnam’s many ethnic groups. Its rich collection includes traditional costumes, agricultural tools, musical instruments, and life-size replicas of ethnic minority houses. A full visit typically takes about two hours.
For lunch, enjoy one of Hanoi’s most beloved dishes: cha ca, fragrant turmeric-marinated grilled fish served with fresh herbs, rice noodles, and a tangy dipping sauce — a true staple of the capital’s culinary heritage.
In the afternoon, continue with an exterior visit of Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, then enjoy a relaxing walk through the nearby botanical gardens to see the simple House on Stilts, where Ho Chi Minh once lived and worked. Conclude this section of the tour at the unique One-Pillar Pagoda, one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks.
For a delightful gourmet pause, settle onto a small stool inside a traditional tube house and savor a cup of egg coffee - a creamy specialty born during the French colonial era. Made from whipped egg yolk and rich Vietnamese coffee, this iconic drink remains a local favorite.
End your day with a stroll through the atmospheric Old Quarter. Originating in the 15th century as a busy trading hub, its famed “36 streets” each once specialized in a particular craft or product. Today, the Old Quarter is a vibrant open-air museum of living history, with narrow alleyways, tube houses, small temples, bustling markets, and irresistible street food creating an unforgettable sensory experience.
Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hanoi.
8:30: Meet your tour guide and driver, then depart for Mai Chau. Along the way, stop for a short walk to visit a Muong ethnic village, offering a first glimpse of rural life in northern Vietnam. Continue to Thung Khe Pass, where you pause to enjoy sweeping panoramic views over the valley before arriving in Mai Chau town around noon. Nestled among green mountain ranges and rice terraces, Mai Chau is a peaceful valley known for its harmonious landscapes and laid-back atmosphere.
Upon arrival in Mai Chau, you are welcomed with a home-hosted lunch, thoughtfully prepared with local flavors.
In the afternoon, enjoy a gentle walk along a quiet concrete path, winding through peaceful villages and lush rice fields. The scenery unfolds gracefully, where mountains, streams, and traditional stilt houses blend in perfect harmony. Along the way, take time to interact with the warm and welcoming local residents, who are always happy to invite you into their homes for a cup of tea - an intimate moment that offers genuine insight into daily life in the valley.
Walking distance: approximately 6 km, at an easy and unhurried pace.
Dinner and overnight stay at a local homestay in Mai Chau.
Drive to Pu Luong Nature Reserve.
Starting from Ban Don village, walk through spectacular rice terraces and follow peaceful trails to Chom Lan village, renowned for its traditional Thai textiles. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes - lush rice paddies blending with quiet villages, vegetable gardens, and fish ponds.
Walking distance: approx. 5-6km
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Transfer to Ninh Binh, a scenic drive that takes approximately 3 hours. Along the way, you'll pass through rural landscapes and peaceful villages, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the Vietnamese countryside. The route is a blend of winding mountain roads and flat terrains, making for a picturesque journey.
Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Following breakfast, we'll discover 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.
Continue to 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.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, we'll transfer to Hoa Lu, you will visit the temples dedicated toEmperor Dinh Tien Hoang of the Dinh Dynasty (968-980), 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.
Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hanoi.
8:30: The driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi, and from there, we’ll begin our journey to Halong City with a scenic drive through the Red River Delta. The trip takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, with an optional stop along the way for a short break.
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.
Our driver will meet you at the Cruise Waiting Lounge and transfer you to Hanoi Airport. The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, with an optional restroom stop along the way. You will be dropped off at Noi Bai Airport for your onward flight.
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.
8:30: This morning, we will discover Cam Thanh Village, a peaceful destination famous for its lush water coconut forest, traditional coconut-painting craft, and rich local culture. Enjoy a memorable ride on a traditional Vietnamese bamboo basket boat, known for its unique round shape and distinctive design.
As you glide through the winding waterways, your local guide will demonstrate rowing techniques used by generations of fishermen. You will also learn about traditional Vietnamese fishing methods and gain insight into how local communities preserve their livelihoods through these unique skills.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Following lunch, we'll explore the enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town on a guided walking tour through its historic streets and cultural landmarks. Begin at the Museum of Antiquities, home to a small yet fascinating collection of Cham artefacts and ceramics that provide insight into Hoi An’s rich and layered heritage. Continue on foot to the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, a beautifully preserved 17th-century wooden bridge that stands as a lasting symbol of the town’s importance as a former international trading port.
Your journey concludes at Quan Thang Ancient House, one of Hoi An’s finest preserved merchant residences. Admire its elegant architecture, intricate wooden carvings, and timeless atmosphere, reflecting the prosperity and refined lifestyle of a bygone era.
As the ancient town of Hoi An lights up in the evening, enjoy a relaxing moment by the Hoai River with the traditional lantern-floating experience. Gently releasing a small lantern onto the water is a simple yet meaningful activity, offering a peaceful glimpse into the town’s local culture and nightly charm. The soft glow of floating lanterns reflecting across the river creates a calm and romantic atmosphere, providing a memorable ending to your day in Hoi An.
Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hoi An.
Today, enjoy a full day at leisure to relax or explore the surrounding area at your own pace. A variety of optional activities are available, including snorkeling, cooking classes, cycling, sightseeing, or boat excursions. Please note that these activities are not included and are at your own expense. Feel free to contact us for more information and availability.
Lunch & dinner at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hoi An.
8:30: Depart for Hue, stopping in Da Nang to visit the Cham Museum, home to one of the world’s most significant collections of Cham sculpture and cultural artefacts. Continue your journey along the scenic coastline toward Hue, pausing at the top of the Hai Van Pass to take in sweeping ocean views and the dramatic landscapes that frame this historic mountain route.
Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, the journey continues with an exploration of the Imperial Citadel, the last remaining symbol of what was once Vietnam’s imperial capital. Inspired by Vauban-style fortifications, the complex is divided into three distinct sections: Kinh Thanh (the Capital City), Hoang Thanh (the Imperial City), and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). Within these walls lie many of Hue’s most remarkable landmarks, including the Flag Tower, the imposing South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the ancient dynasty temples, and the former royal residential quarters.
Before the day comes to a close, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Dong Ba Market. As you wander its lively aisles, you’ll encounter colorful produce stalls, aromatic spice vendors, traditional conical hats, and local snacks prepared fresh on-site. It’s an ideal place to observe the rhythm of everyday commerce and gain an authentic insight into daily life in Hue.
Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hue.
08:30 AM: Your guide and private driver will pick you up from your hotel to continue exploring Hue with a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the city’s oldest spiritual landmarks, founded in 1601. Its iconic octagonal tower and sweeping views over the Perfume River make it an essential stop for understanding the soul of Hue.
Next, you discover the tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, an architectural masterpiece that blends imperial design with serene natural scenery. Planned during his reign (1820–1840) and completed by Emperor Thieu Tri, the complex was built through the collective craftsmanship of thousands of workers and artisans.
You then head to Thuy Bieu village, a peaceful village along the Perfume River, famed for its fragrant pomelo orchards. Here, you may opt for a gentle bicycle ride through leafy lanes, stopping at ancestral temples, traditional garden houses over a century old, and small vegetable plots tended by local farmers.
The experience continues at Mrs. Loan’s charming garden house, where you join a hands-on cooking class to learn several Hue specialties, from delicate vegetable carving to Nem, fig salad, and savory stuffed pancakes.
Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring the dishes you’ve prepared.
After the meal, transfer to Hue Airport for a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
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.
Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.
8:00: This morning, we'll discover 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.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
Following lunch, we'll visit 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.
Before the day ends, we’ll take a stroll through the most famous market in the city, Ben Thanh Market, which has been opened since 1870. The market not only supplies the daily needs of local people but also excellent place to pick up inexpensive souvenirs and enjoy Vietnam’s local street foods.
Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
8:00: 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.
6:00: 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.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
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.
Dinner is 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.
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.
Leave us your details, we will contact you within 48h.
