Highlights
Designed for families seeking a balance of discovery and relaxation, this 15 day journey combines Vietnam’s vibrant cities, Mekong waterways, tropical beaches, cultural heritage and spectacular landscapes, with engaging local experiences and plenty of time to enjoy each destination together.
- Experience Saigon after dark by vintage Vespa, combining street food, local culture and live music.
- Explore the Mekong Delta by boat, sampan and local transport.
- Relax in Nha Trang and cruise its tropical bay with swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and island experiences.
- Enjoy the timeless atmosphere of Hoi An, with free time for cycling, beaches and optional local experiences.
- Discover Hue’s imperial heritage, from the Citadel and royal tombs to a Perfume River cruise.
- Experience the contrasting character of Hanoi, blending historic neighborhoods, local traditions and vibrant street life.
- Cruise overnight through Halong Bay, exploring limestone islands, caves and tranquil waters.
- Taste your way through Hanoi’s street food scene, from local favorites to traditional egg coffee.
Overview
Day 1-4: Ho Chi Minh City and Mekong Delta
- Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City and experience its lively nightlife on an evening Vespa food tour.
- Journey through Ben Tre and Can Tho, exploring Mekong waterways, villages and Cai Rang Floating Market before flying to Nha Trang.
Day 5-6: Nha Trang
- Cruise Nha Trang Bay aboard Emperor Cruises with swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and a fishing village visit.
- Enjoy a free day to relax by the beach or explore independently.
Day 7-8: Hoi An
- Fly to Da Nang and continue to the UNESCO listed town of Hoi An.
- Enjoy a full day at leisure, with optional cycling, cultural and culinary experiences available.
Day 9-10: Hue
- Travel to Hue via Da Nang, visiting the Cham Museum before exploring the Imperial Citadel.
- Cruise the Perfume River and discover Thien Mu Pagoda and the royal tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh.
Day 11-12: Hanoi
- Fly to Hanoi and enjoy time to discover the capital at your own pace.
- Choose an optional city tour featuring Hanoi’s historic landmarks, Old Quarter and traditional water puppetry.
Day 13-15: Halong Bay & Hanoi
- Spend a night cruising among the dramatic limestone landscapes of Halong Bay.
- Return to Hanoi for an evening street food experience before your departure the following day.
Discover the magic of Vietnam
Watch detailed itinerary and highlights in video
Detailed Itinerary
Welcome to Vietnam! Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, our private tour guide and driver will warmly greet your family and transfer you to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.
As Vietnam’s most dynamic city, Ho Chi Minh is a vibrant blend of commerce, culture, and history. Its lively streets, historic landmarks, French colonial architecture, bustling markets, and peaceful pagodas offer a perfect start to your Vietnam adventure.
Enjoy your free time to rest or explore at your own pace.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
18:00 Embark on a unique adventure through Saigon’s vibrant nightlife on a vintage Vespa scooter.
Your evening begins at Café Zoom, a Vespa-themed café, where you’ll enjoy drinks and soak in the lively atmosphere. Experience Saigon from the back of your scooter as you zoom past iconic sights, navigating the bustling streets like a local.
Along the way, you’ll sample some of Saigon’s best street food at two local restaurants and enjoy a variety of authentic Vietnamese delicacies. Visit a Vietnamese-style coffee shop with live music, followed by a stop at an exciting rock music bar, where you’ll discover the new generation of Vietnamese locals unwind and express their unique styles.
The tour includes unlimited drinks and food, so come hungry! The fun wraps up with a drop-off at your hotel around 20:00.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
08:00 After pick-up from your hotel, embark on a 2,5-hour drive (90km) to Ben Tre, the gateway to the Mekong Delta. Boat along the Ham Luong River, a serene branch of the Mekong, where you’ll visit local workshops such as brickworks, a coconut processing facility, and a mat weaving house.
The boat then stops at a quiet village, where you’ll have the chance to take a short walk and immerse yourself in traditional Delta village life. Hop onto an Xe Loi (motorized rickshaw) for a scenic ride before stopping at a riverside restaurant to enjoy a delicious local lunch, including specialties like elephant-ear fish and river shrimp.
After lunch, take a relaxing sampan ride through narrow canals before returning to your boat. From there, we’ll drive to Can Tho, the heart of the Mekong Delta.
Overnight in Can Tho.
In the morning, take a boat cruise to visit the famous Cai Rang Floating Market, known for its bustling activity and numerous rowing boats. This is a highlight of any Vietnam tour, where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and witness the daily lives of locals living along the Mekong canals. Later, visit a rice husking mill and a rice noodle-making shop to get a deeper insight into the traditional practices of the Mekong Delta.
After lunch (on your account), we’ll drive back to Ho Chi Minh to catch a flight with Vietnam Airlines to Nha Trang (Flight VN 456: SGN 17:10 – NHA 18:05).
Upon arrival in Nha Trang, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Overnight in Nha Trang.
8:00 Our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Nha Trang Port to board the Emperor Cruises Junk. Upon arrival, our Experiences Manager will greet you with a cold drink and provide an introduction to Nha Trang Bay, its culture, the local people, food, the emperor, safety precautions, and the cruise.
Begin your cruise through the stunning landscapes of Nha Trang Bay, passing the Tam, Mot, and Mun Islands. Your destination is Bai Cau in Dam Bay Lagoon, close to the renowned diving site near Mun Island. Here, you can opt for some scuba diving or simply enjoy the tranquil environment.
Arriving at the Emperor Cruises’ Secret Beach in Bai Cau, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as snorkeling, swimming, fishing, kayaking (both normal and glass-bottomed), or even try a basket boat ride. Alternatively, relax at the Mango Bar under a large tree, soaking in the stunning views of the Emperor Cruises’ sails against the crystal-clear blue waters.
After your adventures, a delicious set lunch will be served on board with a selection of local beers, fine wines, or premium spirits as the boat anchors near Hon Tam Island, surrounded by its serene lagoon and fish farms.
Following lunch, the cruise heads back to Nha Trang Harbor, passing the Vung Ngan floating village, Vinpearl Island, and Tri Nguyen Aquarium, with a glimpse of the inhabited Mieu Island.
Next, visit Mieu Island for a walking tour of the local fishing villages. Learn about the villagers’ way of life, interact with the friendly locals, and explore the beautiful landscape by basket boat as you head to the fish farms.
Finally, transfer back to the boat by speedboat. Enjoy a refreshing glass of coconut milk, a regional specialty, before returning to port. An Emperor Cruises Van will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.
Overnight in Nha Trang.
Nha Trang is Vietnam’s most famous beach destination, offering a perfect break during your Vietnam tour with its miles of white sandy beaches, swaying coconut palms, and excellent fresh seafood restaurants. Today, enjoy a free day at leisure. You can indulge in a variety of water sports such as parasailing, jet skiing, water skiing, or take relaxing boat trips to the nearby islands. If you prefer to stay on land, explore Nha Trang by taxi or take a traditional cyclo for a leisurely tour around the city.
Overnight in Nha Trang.
After a relaxing morning, our tour guide and driver will transfer you to the airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to Hoi An, a beautifully preserved ancient town that showcases the unique blend of indigenous and foreign influences from its past as a 15th-19th century trading port.
Check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, exploring this charming UNESCO World Heritage site at your own pace.
Overnight in Hoi An.
Hoi An Ancient Town is an exceptional example of a South-East Asian trading port dating back from the 15th to the 19th century, making it a must-see on any Vietnam tour. With its well-preserved buildings and street plans, Hoi An showcases a unique blend of indigenous and foreign influences, creating a truly picturesque and culturally rich town.
Today is free for you to explore at your leisure. Cycle through the peaceful rice paddies surrounding Hoi An, shop for souvenirs at antique shops and art galleries, or simply relax at one of the town’s sidewalk cafes and soak in the ambiance. Alternatively, unwind on the white sandy shores of Cua Dai Beach.
Overnight in Hoi An.
Optional Tours:
- Hoi An Biking Tour: Cycle through the countryside and visit local artisans making traditional bricks, wooden boats, and colorful straw mats. Experience life away from the usual tourist spots, and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese meal at a local home. After a relaxing break under a mango tree, ride back to Hoi An.
- Hoi An – My Son – Hoi An: Visit My Son Holy Land, once the spiritual capital of the Champa Kingdom, which thrived from the 2nd to the 16th century. In the afternoon, return to Hoi An and visit the former merchant homes, the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Pagoda, and the riverside market.
- Tra Que Vegetable Village Tour: Cycle to Tra Que Vegetable Village where you’ll take part in traditional farming activities, such as picking seaweed, digging, and planting. Afterward, relax by soaking your feet in herb-infused water and enjoy a light meal. You’ll also visit a rice paper-making village and finish your day with a cooking class to learn traditional Vietnamese recipes.
After breakfast, you will leave Hoi An and travel to Hue, the last imperial capital of Vietnam, renowned for its majestic architecture, ancient pagodas, and royal tombs nestled in small villages and surrounding hills. Hue is one of the most popular destinations on any Vietnam tour, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich royal history.
On the way, make a stop to admire the famous Danang Beach and visit the Cham Museum, which houses the world’s finest collection of Cham sculpture.
Upon arrival in Hue, visit the Imperial Citadel and explore the Purple Forbidden City, once the home of the Nguyen emperors and a symbol of Vietnam’s royal past.
Overnight in Hue.
Embark on a full-day exploration of Hue, the ancient capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty, which ruled from 1802 to 1945. Your first stop will be the Imperial Citadel, offering a deeper understanding of the beauty and grandeur of Vietnamese royal architecture and culture.
Next, enjoy a scenic dragon boat ride along the Perfume River, one of Hue’s most picturesque waterways, to Thien Mu Pagoda. Perched gracefully on the riverbank, this iconic pagoda is admired for its elegant architecture and deep spiritual significance. It is also closely associated with Buddhist monk Thich Quang Duc, whose historic self-immolation in Saigon in 1963 became a powerful symbol of Buddhist protest during that period.
Afterward, visit the royal tombs of King Minh Mang and King Khai Dinh, two of the most stunning examples of Nguyen dynasty royal architecture.
Overnight in Hue.
After breakfast, your Vietnam tour guide and driver in Hue will transfer you to the airport for your morning flight with Vietnam Airlines to Hanoi. Upon arrival, our private tour guide and driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.
Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, is a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy. The city’s rich history is beautifully reflected in its architecture, where the grandeur of French colonial buildings meets the bustle of Asian street life. It is a city where Parisian elegance fuses with Asian traditions, creating a perfect balance of medieval and modern elements.
Enjoy some free time to explore at your leisure.
Overnight in Hanoi
Today is free for you to explore Hanoi at your own pace.
Optional Tour:
Hanoi is undeniably a beautiful stop on your Vietnam journey. Today, embark on a full-day city tour to explore the highlights of this charming capital. The tour includes:
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (closed on Mondays and Fridays), the resting place of the nation’s founder.
- Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s House on Stilts, where the leader lived and worked.
- The One Pillar Pagoda, a unique Buddhist structure dating back to the 11th century.
- Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, dedicated to Confucius.
- The Ethnological Museum (or the Museum of Fine Arts, Army Museum, History Museum, Women’s Museum, or Hoa Lo Prison).
- West Lake, a scenic area with lovely views and temples like the Tran Vu Pagoda.
- The peaceful Restored Sword Lake, with its charming legend and the Ngoc Son Temple.
Later in the afternoon, enjoy a cyclo tour through the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where each street is named after the goods that were traditionally sold there. Finish with a refreshing glass of “Bia Hoi” (draught beer) at the lively Ta Hien Street.
End the day with a fantastic traditional water puppet show, a unique cultural performance to showcase the artistry of Vietnamese heritage.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you embark on one of the most stunning tours in Vietnam. Your journey begins at 8:00 AM, as we set off for a 2,5-hour drive (150 km) through the picturesque Red River Delta. Along the way, enjoy views of lush green paddy fields where local farmers are hard at work.
Our destination is the World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay, a true natural wonder. The bay is home to 3,000 towering mountain islands and islets rising dramatically from the Gulf of Tonkin in the East Vietnam Sea.
Upon arrival, board your luxury junk and be welcomed with a glass of wine and a selection of fresh local seafood. As the junk glides into the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay, enjoy the spectacular views of towering limestone cliffs and emerald green waters, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
Throughout the cruise, you will have the opportunity to visit the Sung Sot Cave, known for its breathtaking size and beauty, and take a break at Ti Top Beach, where you can relax on the white sands or enjoy a swim in the clear waters.
In the evening, anchor in a serene spot in the bay. Indulge in a delicious dinner on board, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of Ha Long Bay at night.
Overnight on board the junk in the heart of Ha Long Bay
Your Vietnam adventure wouldn’t be complete without the breathtaking experience of Halong Bay, often described as majestic, mysterious, and imperious, a true natural wonder. After spending the night on a romantic Halong Cruise, this morning starts with a serene sampan ride to a secret lagoon of Halong Bay, where you can witness the mountains waking up, shrouded in mist.
Following the lagoon visit, the cruise will take you deeper into Bai Tu Long Bay, passing Human Head Island, Turtle Island, and Duck Islet. You’ll also visit the filming site of the famous Indochine movie before heading back to the harbor by noon.
After disembarking, our journey continues as we drive back to Hanoi.
Upon arrival, get ready for an authentic Hanoi street food tour. We begin by visiting a local market where you’ll explore a variety of foods that make up the everyday meals of the Vietnamese people. You’ll learn about their cooking ingredients and daily food traditions.
Next, we take a walking tour through the bustling streets of Hanoi to try some of the city’s most beloved and distinctive dishes:
- Bánh Rán – Sticky rice pancakes
- Fried Tofu and Vermicelli Shrimp Sauce
- Bún Chả – Hanoi-style vermicelli with grilled pork
- Hanoi Grilled Pork on Sticks
- Bia Hơi – Draught beer
- Trứng Vịt Lộn – Fertilized duck eggs
- Egg Coffee
- Mixed Fruits
Lastly, you’ll savor Chả Cá – Fried Fish, considered one of the best dishes to try while in Hanoi.
This unforgettable street food journey lasts about 4 hours, concluding around 7:00 PM back at your hotel.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Enjoy your final morning in Hanoi with some free time at leisure. Relax and soak in the last moments of your Vietnam holiday.
Our private guide will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your departure. LuxeTravel Asia hope you’ve had a memorable and enjoyable time on your Vietnam family holiday with us.
Thank you for choosing us to be part of your journey. We look forward to organizing your next adventure!
Goodbye and see you again soon!
Inclusions
- Hotel accommodation and overnight Halong Bay cruise as specified
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Local English speaking guides
- Private air conditioned transportation
- 3 domestic flights: Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang, Nha Trang to Da Nang, and Hue to Hanoi
- Entrance fees and boat trips mentioned in the itinerary
- Airport transfers as specified
Exclusions
- International flights
- Early check in and late check out
- Travel insurance
- Meals and drinks not specified
- Personal expenses
- Optional tours and activities
- Tips and gratuities
- Services not mentioned under Inclusions
Top Stays You'll Love
Lorem Ipsum Dolor Sit Amet
15 Days1:45
The Best of Vietnam for Families
Watch The Best of Vietnam for Families Video Itinerary
Vietnam Travel Tips & FAQs
Everything you need to know when planning your journey through Vietnam.1. How many days do I need to explore Vietnam?
For a first trip, 10 to 14 days is a good amount of time to experience several of Vietnam’s highlights at a comfortable pace. With two to three weeks, you can travel more slowly and include the mountains, countryside, Mekong Delta or a beach stay.
2. What is a good itinerary for a first trip to Vietnam?
A well balanced first journey often combines Hanoi, Halong Bay, Central Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City. Depending on your interests and available time, you can also add Ninh Binh, Sapa, the Mekong Delta or one of Vietnam’s coastal destinations.
3. What are the best things to do in Vietnam?
Vietnam offers a wide mix of experiences, from exploring historic cities and cruising Halong Bay to cycling through rice fields, discovering local markets, enjoying regional cuisine and spending time along the coast. The best journey usually combines the country’s well known sights with smaller local experiences along the way.
4. What is the best way to experience Halong Bay?
If time allows, we generally recommend an overnight cruise rather than a day trip. Staying overnight gives you more time on the bay and allows you to enjoy the quieter atmosphere in the evening and early morning. Different cruise routes and styles are available depending on your preferences.
5. What food should I try in Vietnam?
Vietnamese cuisine changes considerably from north to south. Popular dishes include pho, banh mi, bun cha, fresh spring rolls and regional specialties from Hue, Hoi An and the Mekong Delta. Street food, local restaurants and market visits can all be part of the travel experience.
6. Is Vietnam safe for travelers?
Vietnam is generally considered a welcoming and straightforward destination for international travelers. As anywhere, normal precautions are recommended in busy cities and crowded areas, particularly with personal belongings and traffic.
Traveling with well planned transportation and trusted local arrangements can make the journey even easier.
7. Is Vietnam a good destination for families?
Yes. Vietnam is particularly well suited to families because it combines culture, nature, food, beaches and hands on experiences.
Private transportation and flexible touring make it easy to adjust the pace for children, while activities such as cooking classes, cycling, boat trips and beach stays give families plenty of variety.
8. Can I combine Vietnam with Cambodia, Laos or Thailand?
Yes. Vietnam connects easily with Cambodia, Laos and Thailand, making it a natural starting point for a wider Southeast Asian journey.
Vietnam and Cambodia is one of the most popular combinations, while longer trips can include three or all four countries. We recommend planning the route carefully so that the journey remains comfortable rather than trying to fit too many places into too little time.
Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Vietnam’s climate varies from north to south. Explore each month to find the best time for your journey.
