Highlights

Experience Vietnam from south to north, combining vibrant cities, Mekong waterways, cultural heritage, local life and the spectacular landscapes of Halong Bay.

  • Discover Ho Chi Minh City and the Cu Chi Tunnels, combining colonial heritage with wartime history.
  • Cruise through the Mekong Delta, experiencing village life and the lively Cai Rang Floating Market.
  • Cycle through Hoi An’s countryside, meeting local artisans and experiencing rural traditions.
  • Enjoy the atmospheric Hoi An Ancient Town and its impressive Memories Show.
  • Explore Hue’s imperial heritage, from the Citadel and Perfume River to its royal tombs.
  • Discover Hanoi’s culture and street food, from historic landmarks to local culinary favorites.
  • Cruise overnight through Halong Bay, surrounded by limestone islands, caves and emerald waters.

Overview

Day 1-4: Ho Chi Minh City and Mekong Delta

  • Explore Ho Chi Minh City and the historic Cu Chi Tunnels.
  • Travel through Ben Tre to Can Tho and experience Cai Rang Floating Market before flying to Da Nang.

Day 5-6: Hoi An

  • Cycle through Hoi An’s peaceful countryside, visiting local artisans and village communities.
  • Enjoy a free day in the Ancient Town followed by the Hoi An Memories Show.

Day 7-9: Hue and Hanoi

  • Travel to Hue and discover the Imperial Citadel, Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda and royal tombs.
  • Fly to Hanoi for an exploration of the capital’s heritage, local life and historic landmarks.

Day 10-11: Halong Bay and Hanoi

  • Spend a night cruising among the dramatic limestone landscapes of Halong Bay.
  • Return to Hanoi for a cyclo ride and evening street food experience.

Day 12: Hanoi Departure

Enjoy free time before your private airport transfer and onward journey.

Highlights Of Vietnam

Discover the magic of Vietnam

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Detailed Itinerary

On arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), you will be greeted by your local guide and transferred to the hotel downtown. After hotel check-in, you will be free on your own to walk around the city center to get acquainted with the liveliness of this young city.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Optional Experiences (at additional cost)
1. Vespa Tour – Saigon After Dark
Discover Ho Chi Minh City like a true local on the back of a classic Vespa scooter. Escorted by an experienced driver, you’ll explore hidden corners of the city rarely seen by tourists. Cruise through the lively Chinatown district, visit a fragrant flower market, stop at a peaceful hidden pagoda, and admire colonial-era architecture like the Saigon Opera House and Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel.

2. A O Show by Lune Production
Be captivated by the renowned A O Show, an extraordinary fusion of bamboo circus, contemporary dance, and traditional Vietnamese music. Hosted at the Saigon Opera House, this visually stunning performance tells the story of Vietnam’s culture and countryside life.

After breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and depart for Cu Chi Tunnels, located approximately 2 hours from Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, discover an extensive underground tunnel network stretching over 200 kilometers, once used as shelters, living quarters, and strategic hideouts by Vietnamese guerrillas during the Vietnam War.

Lunch at a local restaurant

Drive back to HCM City, then you will take a tour to discover the city by visiting the Reunification Hall, formerly known as the Presidential Palace. This fascinating building is filled with history and evidence of the former Saigon government. The tour also includes the War Remnants Museum, the Old Post Office.

Drive back to your hotel, and then you are free to relax.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Breakfast Lunch

After breakfast, your guide will take you on the trip to Cai Be pier from HCMC via Trung Luong Freeway.

Arrive at Cai Be town, embark the sampan and start to discover Mekong river delta. Visit the local workshops to see the locals making rice paper, coconut candy, pop-rice… it will be so amazing to take a bike ride on village paths to see the local daily life: orchards, school, church, pagoda, traditional. Then, take a rowing boat ride to go deeper into the countryside on canals to enjoy the peaceful time. Back on the boat to go across the Mekong River, go to An Binh Island to visit Ut Trinh’s home, and have lunch with the locals. Enjoy the traditional music in the ancient house during your lunch. Visit the brick kilns where you can see how the local people create beautiful potteries from clay. The cruise will end at Vinh Long city.

Meet our vehicle for a trip to Can Tho.

Overnight in Can Tho.

Breakfast Lunch

n the very early morning, take a boat trip to Cai Rang floating market, where locals go to purchase their products like fruits and vegetables from boats of all sizes. This the original way of business in bustling places of the region. If you have enjoyed traveling to Vietnam for days, surely you will get out of bed early today to witness this lovely local market and gain more experience for your holiday. The boat trip will give you a valuable chance to observe the unique “advertisement” of local businesses – “Cây Bẹo”: Sellers tie their goods to a tall pole so that buyers can see from a distance what they are selling. Sit on a local trading boat, witness boasting activities in the market, and find out about local life in stilt houses along the river.

After the trip, we will get back to the hotel for breakfast and relax.

Around noon – Transfer back to the airport for a flight to Da Nang.

Upon arrival at Da Nang airport, meet our driver and transfer to Hoi An for check-in.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Breakfast Lunch

Meet your guide at the hotel and travel to the banks of the Co Co River, where today’s authentic countryside adventure begins.

Board a local boat and cruise along the peaceful waterways while discovering the daily life of the fishing communities that have lived here for generations. Meet local fishermen, learn about their traditional techniques, and try lifting a large fishing net or casting the unique Ro fishing net, an age-old method still used today.

Continue to the Coconut Forest, where local fishermen welcome you aboard a traditional Vietnamese basket boat. Learn how to paddle this unique round boat through the maze of water coconut palms, enjoy a fun basket boat demonstration, and try catching the small purple crabs that inhabit the mangrove forest.

Enjoy a refreshing break at a traditional bamboo-and-water-coconut house, where you can relax with a cup of Vietnamese tea before continuing to the next experience.

A short drive brings you to the peaceful Tra Que Organic Vegetable Village, a farming community that has supplied fresh herbs and vegetables to Hoi An for more than 400 years. After a refreshing welcome drink, take a guided walk through the gardens to learn about the village’s history and the traditional organic farming methods that have been preserved for generations.

Join local farmers in preparing the soil, planting vegetables, watering the gardens using traditional shoulder yokes, and harvesting fresh herbs. Discover how river seaweed is still used as a natural fertilizer and learn why Tra Que’s produce is renowned throughout central Vietnam.

After your farming experience, relax with a traditional herbal foot soak and massage, a simple yet enjoyable local wellness ritual.

Continue to your host family’s home for a hands-on cooking session. Using the fresh herbs and vegetables you have just harvested, learn to prepare local specialties such as Tam Huu (Hoi An fresh spring rolls) and the famous Vietnamese crispy pancake (Banh Xeo).

Sit down to enjoy the delicious meal you have prepared before returning to your hotel in the afternoon.

Overnight in Hoi An.

 
Breakfast Lunch

The whole morning is dedicated to discovering Hoi An, following the narrow lanes lined with centuries-old houses influenced by Chinese, Japanese, French, and European architecture, visiting numerous places of interest: the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, the Phuc Kien Assembly Halls, the local fish market, visiting numerous art galleries and tailor shops, and getting some made-to-order clothes if you like.

In the evening, enjoy the Hoi An Memories Show, an impressive outdoor performance featuring traditional Ao Dai and reenacting the prosperous past of Hoi An as an ancient trading port. The show has a capacity of up to 3,300 guests. Your tour guide will provide the tickets a day in advance, and you can easily reach the theatre on your own, as it’s just 2–3 km from your hotel.

Overnight in a Hoi An.

Breakfast

After breakfast, depart Hoi An for Hue, the last imperial capital of Vietnam, renowned for its magnificent architecture, pagodas, and royal tombs nestled in the surrounding villages and hills.

En route, stop at the famous Danang Beach and visit the Cham Museum, which houses the world’s finest collection of Cham sculpture.

Upon arrival in Hue, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then

explore Hue Imperial Citadel, historic heart of the Nguyen Dynasty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through the ancient palaces, courtyards, and gates of the Forbidden Purple City, once reserved exclusively for the emperor and royal family. Discover the rich history, culture, and architectural heritage that made Hue the political and cultural center of Vietnam for more than a century.

After the tour, drive to your hotel. The evening is free for you to relax or explore the charming city at your own pace.

Overnight in Hue.

Breakfast Lunch

In the morning, head to Hue’s outskirts to visit the Tombs of King Minh Mang and King Khai Dinh, two of the most impressive examples of the Nguyen Dynasty royal architecture.

King Minh Mang Tomb, located about 12km from the city center on the west bank of the Perfume River, was started in 1840 by the king himself and completed by his son. It is considered the most majestic of all Nguyen Dynasty tombs, admired for its harmonious blend of architecture and natural landscape.

King Khai Dinh Tomb, although the smallest of the royal tombs, is also the most elaborate and costly. Construction began in 1920 and took 11 years. This tomb is notable for its fusion of oriental and Occidental styles, featuring Roman, Gothic, ancient, and modern influences.

Around noon, transfer to Phu Bai Airport for your flight to Hanoi.

Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be picked up and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Breakfast Dinner

Ranked among the world’s best destinations, Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam with over 1,000 years of history and culture. It’s known for its lakes, tree-lined boulevards, flower bicycles, and delicious street food.

05:30 Wake up early and begin your morning experience around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter , the iconic heart of Hanoi. Witness locals performing morning exercises and Tai Chi by the lake, a truly local and energetic scene. Stroll through the peaceful Old Quarter, one of the few times of day it feels quiet and serene.

07:00 Enjoy breakfast with Pho, Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup, especially in Hanoi.

08:00 Pick-up and transfer to the Museum of Ethnology, which offers insight into Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups through detailed exhibits, artifacts, and full-scale replica houses in the outdoor area.

Keep driving to visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, built in 1070. Originally a place to honor Confucius, it later celebrated Vietnam’s top scholars and intellectuals.

Lunch will be at a local restaurant.

Head to the famous Train Street, best visited around this time to catch a train departing at 15:15. This narrow street with homes, cafes, and shops on either side of an active railway line offers a dramatic photo opportunity and a chance to observe local life up close. Enjoy a Vietnamese coffee at Train Track Coffee Shop as the trains pass just meters away.

Next, visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex with a stop at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (outside) at Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh declared independence in 1945. Then continue with a short walk to the Presidential Palace and Uncle Ho’s House on Stilts.

Wrap up the day with a visit to the One Pillar Pagoda, known for its unique lotus-flower-shaped architecture, and one of the must-see landmarks of Hanoi.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Breakfast Lunch

Meet your guide and driver, then depart for Halong Bay – a World Natural Heritage recognized by UNESCO twice. Upon arrival, embark on the cruise and enjoy a welcome drink while having the tour briefing and safety instructions. A seafood lunch will be served on board while the ship sails out to the Bay, with time to admire its dramatic karst formations.

Take a rest at your leisure on the sundeck or relax in your cabin. In the afternoon, decide whether to swim in the warm, calm water or get on kayaks to discover the wonders. Our expert and experienced guides will surely instruct you on the basics of paddling before leading you to explore the extraordinary beauty of Halong Bay. After 01 hour exploring the bay, you will embark on the cruise again before attending a cooking class in the late afternoon.

Enjoy the superb dinner and stay overnight on board.

Note: The detailed itinerary of the cruise will be provided upon confirmation. The program may be subject to change depending on the weather or management.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Enjoying Halong Bay in the early morning with a Tai Chi Class on the sun deck is a must-do that you should not miss on an overnight cruise. Then relax on the upper deck, enjoy the best sightseeing, and take photos of the magnificent beauty of the rocky islands rising from the emerald water.

After breakfast, you will explore Sung Sot cave, one of the finest and widest grottoes in Halong Bay.  Go back to the boat and keep cruising through the fishing village, and witness its unique way of life.

10.30: The boat cruises back to the jetty. Enjoy your last time on the bay before having a traditional Vietnamese lunch.

11: 30: Disembark the cruise, get ashore, meet your driver, and transfer back to Hanoi.

14:30 – 15:00 Arrival in Hanoi, check in your hotel, then enjoy a relaxing cyclo ride around the Old Quarter, observing the bustling street life and unique local traffic. This is a great way to see how Hanoians live and interact in one of the city’s most iconic districts.

Evening: Street Food & Night Walking Tour

Begin your exciting food adventure at Dong Xuan Market, the largest and busiest local market in the Hanoi Old Quarter. From dried food to fresh produce, snacks, sweets, and clothing, the market is a vibrant showcase of daily life and culinary culture.

Your guide will introduce you to the essential ingredients of Vietnamese cuisine and help you sample iconic local dishes, including:

  • Banh Cuon: A delicate steamed rice roll filled with minced pork, wood ear mushrooms, and shallots, served with Cha Lua (Vietnamese pork sausage), fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce of fish sauce, lime, and pickled vegetables.
  • Grilled Pork Skewers: Enjoy deliciously marinated grilled pork cooked over open flames and served with crusty Vietnamese baguettes and herbs—a local street food version of a world-class sandwich.
  • Dessert with Fresh Fruit: Try a refreshing local dessert made from seasonal fruits mixed with condensed milk and crushed ice, a Hanoi favorite.
  • Egg Coffee or Local Beer: End the walk with a cup of traditional egg coffee at a hidden, vintage-style café or opt for a cold local beer to wrap up your culinary journey.
  • Final stop: Hanoi’s Famous Ice Cream Shop, where locals of all ages gather to enjoy a scoop of sweet nostalgia.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Enjoy your free time at leisure to relax, do some last-minute shopping, or reflect on your unforgettable journey through Vietnam.

At the appointed time, our private guide and driver will pick you up and transfer you to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure flight.

On behalf of LuxeTravel Asia, we sincerely thank you for choosing us as your trusted travel partner. We hope you had a memorable and meaningful Vietnam holiday and look forward to welcoming you back on your next adventure.

 

Tour Map

Inclusions

  • Hotel accommodation with daily breakfast
  • Overnight Halong Bay cruise as specified
  • Meals indicated in the itinerary
  • Local English speaking guides
  • Private air conditioned transportation
  • Domestic flights: Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang and Hue to Hanoi
  • Entrance fees, boat trips and activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • Airport transfers as specified

Exclusions

  • International flights & Visa to Vietnam
  • 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

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Highlights Of Vietnam

12 Days

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Highlights Of Vietnam

Watch Detailed Itinerary In Video

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.

Hanoi
Halong Bay
Sapa
Hue
Da Nang - Hoi An
Nha Trang
Ho Chi Minh City
Mekong Delta
Phu Quoc