Highlights
Experience Vietnam from north to south on a 16 day journey combining mountain landscapes, UNESCO heritage, local communities, cultural encounters and an overnight Mekong Delta homestay.
- Discover Hanoi’s heritage and Old Quarter, with a cyclo ride, water puppetry and a welcome dinner.
- Trek through Sapa’s Muong Hoa Valley, meeting Black H’Mong, Red Dao and Dzay communities.
- Cruise overnight through the dramatic limestone landscapes of Halong Bay.
- Explore Hue’s imperial heritage, from the Perfume River and royal tombs to the Imperial Citadel.
- Experience Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge before continuing to historic Hoi An.
- Discover Hoi An’s countryside through fishing, basket boating, organic farming and Vietnamese cooking.
- Explore the ancient Cham heritage of My Son Sanctuary.
- Discover Ho Chi Minh City and the Cu Chi Tunnels, combining urban heritage with wartime history.
- Experience the Mekong Delta by boat, bicycle and local homestay on An Binh Island.
Overview
Day 1-2: Hanoi
- Arrive in Hanoi for a traditional water puppet show and welcome dinner.
- Explore the capital’s historic landmarks, cultural sites and Old Quarter by cyclo.
Day 3-5: Sapa
- Travel to Sapa and trek through Ma Tra and Ta Phin, discovering ethnic minority communities and traditional crafts.
- Explore Muong Hoa Valley, Lao Chai, Ta Van and Giang Ta Chai before returning to Hanoi.
Day 6-7: Halong Bay & Hue
- Spend a night cruising through Halong Bay with kayaking, swimming and onboard activities.
- Explore the bay the following morning before flying to Hue.
Day 8-11: Hue, Ba Na Hills & Hoi An
- Discover Hue’s Imperial Citadel, Perfume River and royal tombs.
- Visit Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge before continuing to Hoi An.
- Experience Hoi An’s countryside through fishing, farming and cooking, followed by a visit to My Son Sanctuary.
Day 12-13: Ho Chi Minh City & Cu Chi
- Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy time to explore at leisure.
- Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels and the city’s key historic landmarks.
Day 14-16: Mekong Delta & Departure
- Cruise through Cai Be and Tan Phong Island before staying with a local family on An Binh Island.
- Explore Vinh Long’s villages, workshops and river life before returning to Ho Chi Minh City for departure.
Vietnam Grand Journey
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Detailed Itinerary
Welcome to Hanoi, the heart of Vietnam, a blend of traditional and modern beauties.
Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, your local guide and driver will welcome and take you to your hotel to check in.
After relaxing, your guide will walk you to the theatre, and you will enjoy a Water Puppet Show, a traditional art performance in Vietnam. After that, you will enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight in Hanoi.
After breakfast at the hotel, meet our guide and driver for a full-day exploration of Hanoi, a city rich in history and culture. The day begins with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where you will see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of Vietnam’s revered leader. A short walk takes you to the Presidential Palace, a beautiful example of French colonial architecture, followed by a visit to Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, which offers insight into the simple lifestyle of the man who shaped modern Vietnam. Before leaving the complex, visit the One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic temple known for its unique lotus-shaped structure.
Next, continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, dedicated to Confucius and generations of scholars. The well-preserved architecture and serene courtyards give you a glimpse into Vietnam’s academic traditions.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before choosing to visit one of the followings:
– Hoa Lo Prison Museum, commonly known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” where American pilots were held during the war.
– Or museum of Ethnology, offering a fascinating insight into the lives of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. Explore displays of traditional customs, religious ceremonies, and full-scale replicas of ethnic minority homes in the museum’s outdoor area.
Late afternoon continues with an exploration of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where a traditional cyclo ride takes you through the bustling, maze-like streets of the city’s historic trading hub. This slow-paced journey offers the perfect opportunity to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, with its mix of ancient shopfronts, modern cafes, and street vendors.
Return to your hotel.
Overnight in Hanoi.
07:00: After breakfast at your hotel, meet your guide and driver to head to Sapa via the Highway.
12:30: Arrive in Sapa, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, check in at the hotel, and take a rest.
14:00: Begin an immersive afternoon exploring the peaceful countryside surrounding Sa Pa.
A short drive takes you to Ma Tra Village, where your trek begins along quiet mountain trails winding through pine forests, terraced fields, and lush valleys. Away from the crowds, Ma Tra offers an authentic glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Black H’Mong people. The village has preserved centuries-old crafts, including hand weaving, blacksmithing, and silver jewelry making, allowing visitors to experience the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Continue your scenic trek for approximately three hours through breathtaking landscapes to Ta Phin Village, home to both the Red Dao and Black H’Mong communities. Along the way, enjoy spectacular mountain views and learn about the unique customs, colorful traditional costumes, and daily life of these ethnic minority groups.
Visit a local handicraft workshop where skilled artisans create beautiful handmade silver jewelry and traditional textiles, offering an opportunity to discover authentic local craftsmanship and support the community.
In the late afternoon, meet your driver for the transfer back to Sa Pa town.
The remainder of the evening is at leisure.
Overnight in Sa Pa.
09:00: Meet your guide and transfer to the starting point of today’s trek through the spectacular Muong Hoa Valley, one of the most beautiful landscapes in Northern Vietnam.
Begin your walk along peaceful mountain trails, passing magnificent terraced rice fields and traditional villages of the Black H’Mong people. Visit Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai Villages, where you’ll gain a fascinating insight into the local way of life while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
Continue following the picturesque Muong Hoa Stream, crossing charming suspension bridges on your way to Ta Van Village, home to the Dzay ethnic minority. Enjoy a home-style lunch with a local family or at a traditional village restaurant, offering an authentic taste of regional cuisine.
In the afternoon, continue your trek to Cau May (Rattan Bridge) and Giang Ta Chai Village, where lush bamboo forests, cascading streams, and dramatic mountain scenery create one of Sa Pa’s most picturesque hiking routes. Along the way, visit local homes and learn about the customs, traditions, and daily life of the ethnic communities who have called this valley home for generations.
At the end of the trek, your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Sapa.
The remainder of the day is at leisure. You may relax at your hotel or explore the charming mountain town at your own pace.
Dinner on your own.
Overnight in Sapa.
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning at your own pace in the charming mountain town of Sa Pa.
You may stroll through the colorful Sa Pa Market, relax by Sa Pa Lake, or wander the town’s quaint streets lined with cafés, local boutiques, and mountain views.
For those seeking a memorable experience, we highly recommend an optional visit to Fansipan Mountain, known as the “Roof of Indochina.” Ride the scenic mountain railway from Hotel De La Coupole – MGallery to the Fansipan Cable Car Station, then take one of the world’s longest cable cars to the summit. On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over the Hoang Lien Son mountain range.
In the afternoon, at a time to suit your schedule, your driver and guide will meet you at your hotel for a comfortable journey back to Hanoi.
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.
Overnight in Hanoi.
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.
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 guide and driver, and transfer to the airport for your flight to Hue. Take your opportunity to visit the rice fields and villages on the way if the flight time permits.
Upon arriving in Hue, you will be welcomed and transferred to the hotel by your tour guide and driver.
Overnight in Hue.
Meet your local guide and begin exploring Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam and one of the country’s most culturally significant destinations.
Start the day with a leisurely dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, taking in the peaceful scenery and local riverside life. Your first stop is the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue’s most revered landmarks, beautifully situated on a hill overlooking the river.
Continue to visit the magnificent royal tombs of Emperor Minh Mang and Emperor Khai Dinh. These impressive monuments showcase two distinct architectural styles and offer fascinating insights into the lives of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, explore the Imperial Citadel, the 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, return to your hotel. The evening is free for you to relax or explore the charming city at your own pace.
Overnight in Hue.
08.00: Your guide and driver will pick you up and transfer you via Danang to get to Ba Na Hills. Take a Cable Car ride from Ba Na Hills Station to travel around and enjoy the famous land. Stop at By Night station to visit Vong Nguyet Hills, Linh Ung Pagoda, and the Old Villas of the French. Then, keep riding the cable car to Nui Chua Mountain – the top of the Ba Na mountain range – and visit Nghinh Phong top, Le Nim Villas, and the Orchid Garden… Experience the hill-climbing train (the first and unique funicular in Vietnam), visit an old French cellar (Debay Ancient Wine Cellar) and the flower garden Le Jardin D’amour.
You should not miss walking on the famous Golden Bridge hanging in the foggy hills of the mountain, and witness the amazing and gorgeous view of Da Nang City
Have lunch at a restaurant on Ba Na Hills.
Afternoon: Free to join games in Fantasy Park.
Drive to Hoi An and check into your hotel. Free time at your leisure.
Overnight in Hoi An.
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.
My Son Sanctuary – the Holyland of the Cham, located about 60km west of Hoi An, is a destination that attracts many visitors for its beauty, grandeur, and mystery of ancient Cham culture. It is recognized as one of the World’s Heritage Sites by UNESCO.
7:30: Leave Hoi An for a short drive to My Son, and admire the fishing villages and the beauty of nature on the way.
Arrive at My Son – “Valley of Kings” as described by French historians- which was once the capital of the Cham Pa Kingdom from the 4th to the 15th century. First, enjoy a traditional performance and walk around to learn the history of the religious site, which served as a burial place for the Cham monarchs many centuries ago. Drive back to Hoi An. Lunch on your own and free for the rest of the day.
Overnight in Hoi An.
After breakfast, take your free time to walk around Hoi An ancient town, go shopping, admire the ancient architecture, or relax at the beach.
About 02 hours before the flight, get a transfer to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City – one of the most modern cities in Vietnam, which gives you a fascinating insight into the rich culture and history. Arrive at the airport, and you will be taken to your hotel to check in. Free to discover the city.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
08.30: After breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide at your hotel lobby. After about one and a half hours of driving, you will arrive at the Cu Chi Tunnels, where you will start a discovery to enrich and experience a web-like tunnel system of more than 200km in length, which used to be the shelters of guerrillas during the Vietnam War.
Lunch at a local restaurant
Drive back to Ho Chi Minh City, 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.
07.30: After breakfast, your guide will take you on the trip to Cai Be pier (86km) from HCMC by car or van via the Trung Luong Freeway.
Upon arrival, begin your exploration with a visit to the vibrant Cai Be Floating Market, where local traders exchange fresh produce and goods directly from their boats. Continue cruising to Tan Phong Island, where you may enjoy a leisurely bike ride or walk along peaceful village paths to observe daily local life, including orchards, schools, churches, pagodas, and traditional homes. Along the way, visit local artisans who make rice paper, weave coconut leaves for cottage roofs, and make handmade craft products from dried water hyacinth, such as baskets, bags, hats, wallets, and shoes.
Then the rowboat will take you deeper into the countryside along smaller canals to enjoy a peaceful time. Lunch is served in a local home
Back to the boat to go across one of the longest rivers in the world, the Mekong River, to come to An Binh Island. Check in at Ut Trinh homestay
Have a fresh shower before cooking with the local family, enjoy dinner & overnight in a homestay.
Have breakfast and check out, then go for a walk through the village to enjoy the fresh morning air, and arrive at the local workshop to learn how to make rice paper, coconut candy, and pop rice… Enjoy some local specialties with a cup of hot tea. Take a boat trip to visit the brick kilns, where you can see how the local people create beautiful pottery from clay. Keep boating along the floating village, and you will see how the fishmen farm catfish on the Mekong River. Also, we can visit the Vinh Long market in the town. This is the best choice for taking pictures of fish, shrimp, prawns, crabs, snakes, rice-field rats, tropical fruits, and vegetables…Transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City.
Lunch en route at a local restaurant.
Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, check in the hotel, and have free time at your leisure.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Free time at your leisure, sightseeing, shopping, buying souvenirs, and taking photos until you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight (03 hours before your flight time). Thank you and see you again!
Includes
- Hotel accommodation with daily breakfast
- Overnight Halong Bay cruise
- Mekong Delta homestay on An Binh Island
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Local English speaking guides
- Private air conditioned transportation
- Domestic flights: Hanoi to Hue and Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City
- Entrance fees, boat trips and activities mentioned in the itinerary
- Airport transfers as specified
Excludes
- International flights
- Vietnam visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Meals and drinks not specified
- Personal expenses
- Optional activities
- Tips and gratuities
- Early check in and late check out
- Services not mentioned under Inclusions
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Vietnam Grand Journey
16 Days2:00
Vietnam Grand Journey
Watch Detailed Itinerary In Video
Vietnam Travel Tips & FAQs
Everything you need to know before planning your journey through Vietnam.
1. When is the best time to visit Vietnam?
Vietnam can be visited year round, but the best time depends on which regions you plan to explore. Northern Vietnam is particularly pleasant in spring and autumn, while central and southern Vietnam follow different seasonal patterns. For a multi region journey, March to April and October to November often provide a good balance of comfortable weather and rewarding experiences.
2. Where are the best places to visit in Vietnam?
Vietnam offers an exceptional variety of destinations, from the historic streets of Hanoi and the limestone landscapes of Halong Bay and Ninh Binh to the heritage towns of Hue and Hoi An. Further south, Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta reveal a different side of the country, while Sapa, Ha Giang and other northern regions are ideal for dramatic scenery and cultural encounters. The best places to visit depend on your interests, travel style and available time.
3. What are the best things to do in Vietnam?
Some of the most memorable experiences in Vietnam include cruising through Halong Bay, exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter, cycling through rural villages, discovering the heritage of Hue and Hoi An, tasting regional Vietnamese cuisine and travelling through the Mekong Delta. Nature lovers can explore mountains, rice terraces and national parks, while those seeking a slower pace can enjoy beach retreats and carefully selected resorts. A well designed itinerary combines iconic sights with meaningful local experiences.
4. What is the best way to experience Halong Bay?
An overnight cruise is one of the best ways to experience Halong Bay, allowing you to enjoy the scenery after many day visitors have departed. Depending on your interests, you can choose between classic Halong Bay routes or quieter areas such as Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. LuxeTravel Asia can help select the right cruise based on cabin quality, route, onboard experience and the amount of time available in your itinerary.
5. What is Vietnam famous for?
Vietnam is known for its remarkable landscapes, rich history, diverse regional cultures and distinctive cuisine. Highlights range from limestone bays, terraced rice fields and tropical coastlines to ancient towns, vibrant cities and traditional villages. The country is also celebrated for its warm hospitality and the strong local character that makes each region feel different from the next.
6. What food should I try in Vietnam?
Vietnamese cuisine varies greatly from north to south, making food an important part of any journey. Popular dishes include pho, banh mi, bun cha, fresh spring rolls and regional specialties such as cao lau in Hoi An or bun bo Hue in central Vietnam. Street food, family run restaurants and carefully selected local dining experiences are often some of the most memorable ways to discover Vietnamese culture.
7. Is Vietnam safe for travelers?
Vietnam is generally considered a welcoming and straightforward destination for international travelers. As with any trip, visitors should take normal precautions with personal belongings, traffic and unfamiliar areas. Traveling with reliable local arrangements, private transportation and experienced guides can make the journey more comfortable and allow you to focus on enjoying the destination.
8. How many days do I need to explore Vietnam?
For a first visit, around 10 to 14 days allows enough time to experience several of Vietnam’s major highlights without making the journey feel rushed. Travelers with two to three weeks can explore the country in greater depth, combining northern landscapes, central heritage, southern cities and the Mekong Delta. LuxeTravel Asia designs itineraries around your interests and preferred pace, so the ideal length depends on how deeply you want to experience each region.
When To Go
Vietnam’s climate is unique.
