12-Day Vietnam Discovery: From Northern Wonders to Southern Charm
Overview
Experience Vietnam like never before with our 12-day, 11-night journey through vibrant cities, misty mountains, serene bays, and charming villages. From the ancient incense craft villages of Hanoi to the breathtaking landscapes of Sapa, Halong Bay cruises, Hoi An’s timeless beauty, and the Mekong Delta’s floating life — every day is a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation.
Day 1: Pick up airport – relaxing in hotel
Day 2: Incense village – street food tour – Sapa (B, L, D)
Day 3: Sapa – Fansipan – Cat Cat village (B, L)
Day 4: Lao Chai – Ta Van village trekking to seeing rice paddy – back to HaNoi in the evening (B, L)
Day 5: Hoa Lu – Trang An – Mua Cave (B, L)
Day 6: Ha Noi – Halong bay on 5 stars cruise (B, L, D)
Day 7: Halong bay – Hanoi airport – Flight to Da Nang / Hoi An (B, L)
Day 8: Coconut Jungle – Hoi An ancient town (B, L)
Day 9: Hoi An – Ba Na hill 1 day (B, L)
Day 10: Flight Da Nang – Ho Chi Minh City (B)
Day 11: Mekong Delta 1 day (B, L)
Day 12: Ho Chi Minh – flight back home (B)
Itinerary Details
Day 1: Welcome to Hanoi – Settle In and Relax
Touch down at Noi Bai Airport, where our friendly guide and driver will greet you with a warm smile and help you kick off your adventure in Vietnam. On the 45-minute drive to Hanoi’s vibrant Old Quarter, we’ll share handy tips about local culture, must-see sights, and, of course, the amazing food scene.
Once we arrive at your hotel, it’s time to check in, relax, and shake off the travel fatigue. Whether you choose to rest up or take a gentle stroll around the charming streets, Hanoi’s welcoming vibe will make you feel right at home.
Note: Hotel check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 2: Incense Village – Street Food Tour – Sapa (B, L, D)
Incense Village:
- 7:45 – 8:15: Your guide will pick you up from the Old Quarter – let’s get ready for an inspiring journey into Hanoi’s timeless villages.
- 9:30: First stop, Ha Thai Village, a place that has been crafting exquisite lacquerware since the 17th century. Here, you’ll meet a passionate lacquer painting artisan who will welcome you into his creative world. Don’t just observe – roll up your sleeves and craft your very own lacquer masterpiece under his guidance. A hands-on experience you won’t forget!
- 10:50: Next, we head to Chuong Village, renowned for its beautiful conical hats, nón lá, for over 300 years. Take a stroll through this charming countryside village and visit a local veteran to hear personal stories from the Vietnam War, or connect with artisans who keep this traditional craft alive. One special stop will be the home of a female artisan who has been perfecting the art of hat-making for over 30 years. She’ll treat us to a home-cooked lunch, and if you’re feeling adventurous, join her for a mini cooking class to learn the secrets of authentic Vietnamese countryside cuisine. After lunch, unleash your creativity by painting your own conical hat or simply sit back and watch the artisan at work.
- 13:30: With hearts full and hands busy, it’s time to say goodbye and move on to Quang Phu Cau Village. This village, famous for its vibrant incense production, offers stunning photo opportunities. Wander through ancient houses, chat with local artisans, and explore the colorful dyeing yards that make this place a photographer’s dream.
- 15:00: We’ll wrap up the village adventure with a tour of the largest incense factory in town. Watch the entire incense-making process, from raw materials to finished products, and gain insight into the life of countryside workers. It’s the perfect spot to pick up some handmade incense as a thoughtful souvenir – straight from the source!
- 16:30 – 17:00: Back to Hanoi, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel in the Old Quarter.
Street Food Tour
Afternoon time: 17.30 pm – 20.30 pm
Ready for a true culinary adventure? Our street food tour is a feast for your senses!
- Wandering around 3 hours in Hanoi Old Quarter by walking/motorbike to taste randomly from 5-8 Vietnamese dishes + with AT LEAST 3 drinks (Egg coffee, local beer, bottled water) included.
- Enthusiastic, Experienced English speaking tour guides.
- Special itinerary
- Variety of food selection.
ITINERARY:
– Be picked up from hotels or meeting point located in the center of Hanoi Old Quarter (Only).
– Quick Vietnamese greeting lessons.
– Tour guides discuss any food allergies before starting a tour and tell tourists about Vietnamese cuisine, Vietnamese (Hanoian) history, culture while touring.
– Tour guides will take tourists to eat at lots of special corners , alleys and restaurants of The Old Quarter that you might miss if you go by yourself to try variety of street foods and drinks such as: Bun cha ( Grilled pork with noodle), Pho bo, ga ( Beef, chicken noodle soup), Bun oc (Snail noodle soup), Banh cuon ( Steamed rice paper rolls), Banh goi ( Pillow dumpling), Nem ran ( Fried spring rolls), Banh tom (Shrimp dumpling), Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), Che ( Sweet gruel soup), Banh Bao (Vietnamese dumpling), Banh khoai, chuoi ( Sweet potato,Banana cake), Hoa qua dam ( Mixture fresh-fruit), Bia Hoi (Fresh beer), Tra da (Iced tea), Cafe trung (Egg coffee) …
– Tour ends at Hoan Kiem Lake or anywhere convenient for tourists to return, and then tour guides will show them how to get back to your hotels.
9.30 – 10.00 PM : Going to the bus station to get a VIP cabin sleeper going to Sapa.
Sleeping on Vip cabin sleeper bus.
Day 3: Sapa – Fansipan – Cat Cat Village (B, L)
5:30 AM: Welcome to Sapa! We’ll arrive at the Sapa office station, where our driver and car will be waiting to take you straight to your hotel.
6:30 AM: Start your day with a warm breakfast at a local restaurant to refuel for an exciting morning ahead. From there, we’ll head to Sun Plaza and board the Muong Hoa train – a scenic ride through stunning valleys that takes us to Hoang Lien Station. From here, hop on the cable car to conquer Fansipan Legend, the “Roof of Indochina” and the highest mountain in Southeast Asia. Standing at the summit, surrounded by clouds, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views that are truly unforgettable.
Once we finish our Fansipan adventure, we’ll return to Sapa town for a hearty lunch and check into the hotel.
13:30 PM: After a short rest, our guide will meet you at the hotel and take you on a relaxing trek to Cat Cat Village, a charming H’mong ethnic village nestled amidst rolling hills and lush greenery. You’ll discover stunning waterfalls and the remnants of a historic hydropower station built during the French colonial era. Don’t forget your camera – the landscapes here are picture-perfect!
17:30 PM: We’ll head back to your hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy a delicious dinner at the restaurant.
The evening is yours to explore Sapa town at your own pace. Wander through the colorful streets, shop for handmade crafts, or simply sip a cup of hot tea while soaking in the mountain-town atmosphere.
Overnight at your 4-star hotel in Sapa.
Day 4: Lao Chai – Ta Van Village Trekking – Back to Hanoi (B, L)
8:00 – 8:30 AM: After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, our guide will meet you for an unforgettable trekking adventure through the stunning Sapa countryside. We’ll start by walking down to Y Linh Ho Village, home to the H’mong ethnic group. The views here are breathtaking, with endless rice terraces that have been passed down for generations—some are said to be over 100 years old. This is the perfect spot to capture photos of Sapa’s timeless beauty.
From Y Linh Ho, we’ll continue to Lao Chai Village, a peaceful H’mong hometown where life seems to slow down. Here, we’ll take a 30-40 minute break to rest, chat with the locals, and soak up the serene atmosphere.
Next, we make our way to Ta Van Village, a beautiful settlement shared by the H’mong and Giay ethnic groups. You’ll be amazed by the rustic charm of this village, surrounded by lush fields and rolling hills—it’s the perfect place to connect with nature and local culture.
Once we wrap up our trek, we’ll head back to Sapa town for a delicious lunch. After lunch, it’s time to check out of your hotel and say goodbye to this mountain paradise. Our driver will drop you off at the Sapa bus office, where you’ll board a VIP cabin sleeper bus back to Hanoi at 14:30 PM.
19:30 PM: Arrive in Hanoi and check into your hotel. The evening is yours to explore the capital city at your own pace—wander through the lively streets, enjoy a late-night snack, or simply relax and reflect on the day’s adventure.
Overnight in your Hanoi hotel.
Day 5: Hoa Lu – Trang An – Mua Cave (B, L)
7:45 – 8:15 AM: Rise and shine! Our friendly guide will pick you up, and we’ll set off for today’s adventure. On the way to Ninh Binh, we’ll have a 20-minute break—perfect for grabbing a quick coffee, stretching your legs, or just relaxing.
10:00 AM: We arrive in Ninh Binh, where our first stop is Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010. This historical site offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich feudal past, especially during the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties. After exploring the history, we’ll hop on bikes for a leisurely cycling tour around the village, enjoying the peaceful countryside and getting a closer look at local life.
12:30 PM: Time to refuel! We’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch featuring local specialties like goat meat, fish, chicken, fried rice, and more. If you’re vegetarian, don’t worry—there are always plenty of options available.
1:30 PM: After lunch, we head to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014. Known for its stunning tunnel cave system, Trang An is so spectacular that it became a filming location for the 2016 Hollywood movie “Kong: Skull Island”. Get ready for a relaxing 2-hour boat trip through emerald waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and breathtaking caves—you’ll feel like you’re in a movie yourself!
3:45 PM: Next stop is Mua Cave, also known as Dancing Cave. Brace yourself for a bit of a challenge—500 steps lead up to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain. But trust me, it’s worth every step! At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a jaw-dropping panoramic view of Tam Coc’s rice paddies and rivers.
5:00 PM: After soaking in the views, we’ll hop back on the bus and head back to Hanoi.
7:00 PM: We’ll arrive in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and drop you off at your hotel. The evening is free for you to grab dinner at a nearby restaurant and explore the bustling streets of Hanoi at your own pace.
Overnight at your hotel in Hanoi.
Day 6: Hanoi – Halong Bay on a 5-Star Cruise (B, L, D)
8:00 – 8:30 AM: After breakfast, our limousine will pick you up from your hotel for a comfortable 3-hour drive to Halong Bay—one of Vietnam’s most stunning natural wonders.
11:30 – 12:00 PM: Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Marina, our friendly team will greet you at the cruise lounge. After a short rest, we’ll hop on a high-speed tender for a 25-minute transfer to the main cruise ship.
Once onboard, you’ll be welcomed with a refreshing drink and a big smile from the cruise team. After a quick safety briefing, we’ll get you checked into your suite cabin. Now, take a deep breath—it’s time to relax and enjoy your time on this luxurious floating paradise!
1:00 PM: A delicious lunch will be served as the cruise begins its journey through the breathtaking beauty of Lan Ha Bay. You’ll be mesmerized by the emerald waters and towering limestone karsts rising out of the sea.
3:45 PM: We’ll arrive at Ba Trai Dao—a dreamy area famous for its peaceful lagoons and three peach-shaped islets. Here, you can jump into the fun with activities like kayaking, swimming, or simply soaking in the views. The warm water and gentle breeze are perfect for a little adventure or relaxation.
Note: In case of unfavorable weather, we’ll visit the stunning Dark and Bright Cave instead. You can explore by kayak or enjoy a bamboo boat ride, gliding through crystal-clear waters surrounded by majestic limestone formations.
5:30 – 6:30 PM: Return to the cruise just in time for a magical sunset party. Grab a drink at the bar with our Happy Hour promotion (buy 1, get 1 free) and watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the bay in shades of gold and orange.
6:00 PM: Want to learn a new skill? Join our chef for a fun cooking demonstration, where you’ll discover how to make some simple, yet delicious Vietnamese dishes.
7:30 PM: Dinner is served! Indulge in a seafood feast featuring fresh catches and authentic Vietnamese specialties. Savor the flavors while dining under the soft glow of the bay’s night sky.
9:00 PM: The evening is yours to enjoy. Try your luck with squid fishing, sing your heart out at karaoke, or simply relax on the deck with the cool sea breeze and the twinkle of distant stars.
Overnight onboard the cruise.
Day 7: Halong Bay – Hanoi Airport – Flight to Da Nang / Hoi An (B, L)
6:15 AM: Start your day early with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the deck as the sun rises over Halong Bay. Or, if you prefer, enjoy the stunning views from the top deck or even the gym—it’s the perfect place to catch the serene morning light.
7:30 AM: After your morning activities, head to the restaurant for a light breakfast, a great way to fuel up for the day ahead.
8:30 AM: Time for an adventure! We’ll head out by kayak to explore the charming Tra Bau fishing village. Spend an hour paddling through the calm waters, enjoying the peaceful sights, and watching the fishermen at work, including farming oysters. It’s a unique, relaxing experience.
10:00 AM: After kayaking, return to the boat and check out your cabin. We’ll enjoy a leisurely brunch in the restaurant as the boat makes its way back to the pier.
11:30 AM: We’ll disembark at Tuan Chau Harbor, wrapping up this unforgettable cruise experience.
12:15 PM: Hop on a limousine bus back to Hanoi.
3:30 PM: Arriving in Hanoi, a private car will be waiting to take you directly to Noi Bai Airport.
6:55 PM: Catch your flight from Hanoi to Da Nang. Once you land, our driver will be there to pick you up and take you to your hotel in Hoi An.
You’ll have the rest of the evening to relax and unwind at your hotel, soaking in the tranquil charm of Hoi An.
Overnight at your hotel in Hoi An.
Day 8: Coconut Jungle – Hoi An Ancient Town (B, L)
7:30 AM: After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, meet your guide in the lobby for an exciting day of exploring the charming Hoi An Ancient Town. Our first stop will be the Central Market, where you can soak in the hustle and bustle of local life. From there, we’ll visit iconic landmarks like the Japanese Bridge, Chinese temples, and the ancient commercial houses with their unique architecture. As we stroll, your guide will share fascinating stories about each site, giving you a deeper understanding of the cultural diversity that has shaped this beautiful town.
Lunch will be at a local restaurant, where you’ll have the chance to try some traditional dishes, getting a real taste of Hoi An’s culinary heritage.
1:30 PM: After lunch, we’ll head out to Cam Thanh Coconut Village, a peaceful spot just outside of town.
2:00 PM: Whether by car or boat, we’ll make our way to this village, meeting friendly local fishermen along the way and learning about their way of life.
2:30 PM: Time for a fun adventure! Hop into a traditional bamboo basket boat and cruise through the serene coconut forests of Cam Thanh. Your guide will give you a brief history of the area, and you’ll experience the quiet beauty of the waterways.
3:30 PM: Join the local fishermen on the river, where you’ll have the chance to try your hand at round net and cast net fishing. You can also take a turn at paddling your own basket boat—and even join in a friendly basket boat race!
Explore the peaceful coconut waterways that have seen their fair share of history, including the effects of the past war, and enjoy catching some crabs as you go.
After all that hard work, head back to a local fisherman’s house for a refreshing welcome drink, and then indulge in a hearty meal of local food.
4:30 – 5:00 PM: We’ll return to your hotel, where you’ll have some free time to relax or explore on your own in the evening.
Overnight in Hoi An hotel.
Day 9: Hoi An – Ba Na Hill (B, L)
After a delicious breakfast, we’ll set off for Da Nang to visit one of Vietnam’s most impressive modern engineering marvels – the Golden Hand Bridge. Upon arrival, you’ll take a scenic cable car ride up to Ba Na Hill, where you’ll be greeted by the stunning Golden Hand Bridge, a truly unique architectural masterpiece that has become a symbol of the area.
Ba Na Hill is not just about breathtaking views; it’s also a thrilling leisure complex built on the site of a former French colonial-era climate station. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the area, enjoy the entertainment, and take in the beauty of the surroundings.
In the late afternoon, we’ll head back to Hoi An, where you’ll check in to a comfortable hotel by the beach for a well-deserved rest and some time to relax by the sea.
Day 10: Da Nang – Flight to Ho Chi Minh – Cu Chi Tunnels (B, L)
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll check out from the hotel and gather your luggage. Our driver will then take you to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh, your guide will be waiting to greet you and take you to your hotel, where you can leave your luggage before we head out for lunch.
12:30 – 13:00 PM: After lunch, we’ll get ready for an unforgettable adventure as we head out to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Located about 60km outside the city, this historic site is a must-see for anyone interested in Vietnam’s wartime history. The Cu Chi Tunnels were part of a vast underground network, over 200km long, that played a crucial role during the Vietnam War. At their peak, the tunnels served as underground cities, complete with living quarters, storage spaces, weapon factories, hospitals, and even kitchens.
Today, Cu Chi is a peaceful rural area with rice paddies, ducks, and water buffaloes, but it’s hard to imagine the intense battles that once took place here. The area was heavily bombed and mined, leaving scars that are still visible today.
We’ll start with an introductory video showing how the tunnels were constructed, then spend about an hour exploring the tunnels themselves. Afterward, we’ll enjoy a traditional treat of tea and cassava, the guerrilla’s food during the war, before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City.
You’ll have the evening to relax, explore the city, or simply unwind after an insightful day.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh hotel.
Day 11: Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta 1 Day (B, L)
Get ready for an exciting day as we dive into the heart of the Mekong Delta, a true showcase of tropical beauty, lush landscapes, and vibrant local life.
After breakfast, we’ll pick you up from your hotel, and then we’ll head to My Tho City. On the way, you’ll watch the cityscape fade into serene rice paddies, with small villages and lush green fields all around. Our first stop will be the Vinh Trang Pagoda, a peaceful place where you can admire the mix of architectural styles and soak in the calm vibes.
From there, we’ll embark on a relaxing boat ride along the Tien River. As we cruise past homes on stilts, floating markets, and traditional boat-building workshops, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world. We’ll head toward Tortoise Islet, one of the most charming spots in the Mekong Delta. But the journey doesn’t end there—we’ll continue on to Ben Tre Province, or as it’s known locally, “the land of coconuts.” Here, you’ll get an inside look at the local agricultural practices, including the unique Garden-Pond-Cage system.
Once we arrive, we’ll treat you to a taste of the region’s specialties. Relax on your wooden boat as you sip on honey tea and enjoy coconut candy while cruising along shaded canals, surrounded by towering water-coconut trees.
At midday, we’ll stop for a delicious, authentic Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll get a taste of the Mekong Delta’s famous dishes. Afterward, it’s back to the boat for an afternoon adventure—explore the lush tropical fruit gardens, meet some friendly local islanders, and enjoy a performance of traditional Southern Vietnamese folk music.
With the day coming to an end, you’ll be comfortably transported back to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City to unwind and reflect on this unforgettable experience.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh hotel.
Day 12: Ho Chi Minh – Flight Back Home (B)
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel, then take your time to check out of your room. Afterward, our driver will be waiting to take you to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your flight back home.
As you head to the airport, reflect on the amazing experiences you’ve had exploring Vietnam’s beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. We hope you’ve made memories that will last a lifetime.
Thank you for choosing to travel with us, and we look forward to welcoming you on your next adventure! Safe travels!
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