Overview

 

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes and rich culture. From the vibrant streets of Hanoi, to the serene beauty of Halong Bay, and the ancient charm of Hoi An, this 7-day adventure covers it all. Experience bustling markets, majestic mountains, historic sites, and tranquil rivers, with local flavors and unique traditions at every stop. Perfect for those who want to see the best of Vietnam in a short time!

 

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Pick up from airport – Relaxing at the hotel

Welcome to Hanoi! After your flight, our friendly guide and driver will be waiting for you at the pick-up area at Noi Bai Airport. We’ll take you on a 45-minute drive to your hotel, right in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Along the way, your guide will give you a sneak peek into the city’s vibrant culture, local traffic, and must-try foods.

Once we arrive at the hotel, you’ll check in and have some free time to unwind after your journey. Please note that the official check-in time is 2:00 PM, so feel free to relax and get comfortable.

Enjoy a peaceful night in Hanoi – you’re all set for tomorrow’s adventures!

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 Ha Noi in the evening (B, L)

Day 5: Ha Noi – Halong bay cruise (B, L)

Day 6: Hoa Lu – Trang An – Mua Cave ( B , L )

Day 7: Ha Noi – Flight Da Nang – Coconut Jungle – Hoi An ancient town (B, L)

Day 8: Hoi An – Ba Na hill 1 day (B, L)

Day 9: Flight Da Nang  – Ho Chi Minh – Cu Chi Tunnel (B)

Day 10: Mekong Delta 1 day (B, L)

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh – flight back home (B)

Day 2: Incense Village – Street Food Tour – Sapa (B, L, D)

Incense Village:
Morning: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• 7:45 – 8:15 AM: Get ready to start the day! Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and we’ll head out on an exciting adventure.
• 9:30 AM: Our first stop is Ha Thai Village, where lacquerware has been made since the 17th century. Here, you’ll meet a talented lacquer artist in their studio and get hands-on by crafting your own piece of artwork. It’s a perfect chance to connect with the tradition!
• 10:50 AM: Next, we visit Chuong Village, famous for its 300-year-old tradition of making conical hats. As we wander around, we’ll meet local artisans and hear fascinating stories, like one from a Vietnam War veteran (if he’s at home!). Then, we’ll enjoy a homemade lunch prepared by a skilled female artisan who’s been making hats for over 30 years. If you like, you can even join her for a mini cooking class! After lunch, get creative by painting your own conical hat or watching the artisans in action.
• 1:30 PM: After saying goodbye to our lovely host, we head to Quang Phu Cau village, where we’ll visit ancient houses and meet more artisans. Don’t forget your camera – the dyeing yard here is a photographer’s dream!
• 3:00 PM: Time for a factory tour at the largest incense factory in town. Watch the fascinating process of incense production, from start to finish, and learn about the lives of the workers. You can also pick up some incense to take home as a souvenir!
• 4:30 – 5:00 PM: We’ll drop you back at your hotel in the Old Quarter, and that wraps up the incense village part of your day!

Street Food Tour:
Afternoon: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM

• After a little rest, we dive into Hanoi’s famous street food scene! We’ll explore the Old Quarter for about 3 hours, tasting anywhere from 5 to 8 amazing Vietnamese dishes, plus at least 3 drinks (think egg coffee, local beer, and fresh water). Your guide will make sure you’re introduced to all the best food stops, from hidden alleys to local favorites.
• You’ll get a crash course in Vietnamese cuisine as we sample iconic dishes like Bún Chả (grilled pork with noodles), Pho (beef or chicken noodle soup), Bánh Cuốn (steamed rice paper rolls), Bánh Gối (pillow dumplings), Nem Rán (fried spring rolls), Bún ốc (Snail noodle soup), Bánh tôm (Shrimp dumpling), Bánh Mì (Vietnamese sandwich), ! You’ll also try sweet treats like Chè (sweet soup), Bánh Khoai (sweet potato cake), Hoa quả dầm ( Mixture fresh-fruit), Bia Hơi (Fresh beer), Trà đá (Iced tea),… and of course, Egg Coffee.
• Along the way, your guide will share stories about the food and culture, giving you a deeper understanding of Hanoi’s culinary history.
• The tour ends at the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake, or another convenient spot for you to head back to your hotel after a truly unforgettable experience.

Night Travel to Sapa:

• 9:30 – 10:00 PM: After the food tour, we’ll head to the bus station to catch your VIP sleeper bus to Sapa. You’ll enjoy a cozy night’s sleep on the bus, ready for the adventure that awaits in the mountains.

Day 3: Sapa – Fansipan – Cat Cat Village (B, L)

• 5:30 AM: Good morning! You’ll arrive at the Sapa station, where our friendly driver will be waiting to take you straight to your hotel.
• 6:30 AM: Start the day with a hearty breakfast at a local restaurant to fuel up for the adventures ahead. After breakfast, we’ll head to Sun Plaza, where you’ll hop on the Muong Hoa Mountain Train to Hoang Lien Station. From there, get ready to ride the cable car up to Fansipan, the “Roof of Indochina” and the highest peak in Southeast Asia! As you soar above the clouds, take in the breathtaking views of the lush valleys and towering mountains – a truly unforgettable experience.
• After conquering Fansipan, we’ll make our way back to Sapa town for a delicious lunch. Afterward, it’s time to check in and relax for a bit at your hotel.
• 1:30 PM: Ready for the next adventure? Your guide will meet you at the hotel to take you trekking to Cat Cat Village, a charming H’mong village nestled in the mountains. This village is full of charm, from its cascading waterfalls to the impressive remnants of an old hydropower station built during French colonial times. Stroll through the village, meet the locals, and immerse yourself in the peaceful rural atmosphere.
• We’ll return to Sapa town around 5:30 PM, where you can unwind back at your hotel and enjoy a tasty dinner at the restaurant.
• The evening is yours to explore! Wander through Sapa town, visit the local night market, or simply relax and soak up the cool mountain air.

Overnight in Sapa hotel.

Day 4: Lao Chai – Ta Van Village Trekking through Rice Paddies – Back to Hanoi (B, L)

• 8:00 – 8:30 AM: After a refreshing breakfast at the hotel, lace up your walking shoes because today’s all about exploring the stunning countryside! Our guide will meet you and lead the way as we walk down to Y Linh Ho, a peaceful village home to the Hmong minority. This is a perfect spot to take in the beauty of terraced rice fields, some of which have been cultivated for over a hundred years. You’ll want your camera ready – the landscapes here are breathtaking!
• From Y Linh Ho, we’ll make our way to Lao Chai Village, the heartland of the Hmong community. Take a short break here (around 30–40 minutes) to soak in the serenity and observe the rhythm of daily life in the village.
• Next, we continue trekking to Ta Van Village, home to the Giay ethnic group. This village has an irresistible charm with its rustic beauty, gentle hills, and welcoming locals. It’s a great chance to connect with the culture, whether through a friendly chat or simply admiring the scenery.
• After wrapping up our trek, we’ll head back to Sapa town for a well-deserved lunch. Then, you’ll check out of the hotel, and our driver will drop you off at the bus office for your VIP sleeper bus back to Hanoi.
• 2:30 PM: Settle into the bus, stretch out, and enjoy a comfortable journey back to the capital.
• 7:30 PM: Arrive in Hanoi and check into your hotel. The evening is yours to relax or explore Hanoi at your own pace. Stroll around the bustling streets, sample some late-night street food, or enjoy the peaceful charm of Hoan Kiem Lake under the city lights.

Overnight in Hanoi hotel.

Day 5: Hanoi – Halong Bay Cruise (B, L)

• 8:00 – 8:45 AM: Rise and shine! After breakfast, our guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Settle in for a smooth and scenic drive along the Hanoi-Haiphong-Tuan Chau Highway. It’s about 3 hours to Halong Bay, and we’ll take a 30-minute rest stop on the way – perfect for stretching your legs and grabbing a coffee.
• 12:00 PM: Welcome to Tuan Chau Harbor! The stunning Halong Bay awaits, and we’ll kick off our adventure by boarding the luxury cruise. The friendly crew will greet you with a warm welcome drink as you settle in for the journey.
• 12:30 PM: Lunch is served! Savor a delicious Vietnamese meal on board as the boat glides through the emerald waters of Halong Bay. This is a magical moment: thousands of towering limestone karsts rise from the water, creating a surreal, postcard-perfect landscape. Make sure your camera is ready – you won’t want to miss this.
• 2:00 PM: We arrive at Bo Hon Island to explore Sung Sot Cave, one of the most spectacular caves in Halong Bay. Marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites that have been forming for millions of years – nature’s artwork at its finest!
• 2:45 PM: Next, it’s time for some adventure! Grab a kayak or hop on a bamboo boat to paddle through Luon Cave. This peaceful lagoon, surrounded by steep cliffs, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
• 3:15 PM: We’ll head over to TiTop Island, where you have two amazing options:
  • Relax on the sandy beach and go for a swim in the calm, clear waters.
  • Or, if you’re up for it, trek up to the top of the island. The panoramic view of Halong Bay from above is absolutely breathtaking – worth every step!
• 4:30 PM: Back on board, it’s time to unwind with a sunset party. Sip on wine or tea, nibble on fresh fruit and biscuits, and soak in the golden glow of the setting sun as we cruise back toward the harbor.
• 6:00 – 6:15 PM: We’ll dock back at Tuan Chau Harbor and hop on the bus for the return journey to Hanoi.
• 9:00 PM: Arrive back at your hotel in Hanoi, where you can relax after an unforgettable day on Halong Bay.

Overnight in Hanoi hotel.

Day 6: Hoa Lu – Trang An – Mua Cave (B, L)

• 7:45 – 8:15 AM: Good morning! Our friendly guide will pick you up at your hotel, and we’ll hit the road for an exciting day trip to Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land.” After a couple of hours on the highway, we’ll stop for a 20-minute break – a perfect chance to stretch your legs, grab a snack, or just relax.
• 10:00 AM: Our first stop is Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam (968–1010), where you’ll step back in time to learn about the country’s feudal history under the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties. The architecture and stories of this historic site make for a fascinating experience.
• Afterward, hop on a bicycle for a leisurely ride through the peaceful village paths. It’s a wonderful way to take in the rural scenery and get a glimpse of the local way of life – rice fields stretching far and wide, kids waving hello, and farmers tending their land.
• 12:30 PM: Time to recharge with a delicious buffet lunch at a local restaurant. Feast on specialties like goat meat, grilled fish, chicken, and fried rice – and don’t worry, there are plenty of vegetarian options too!
• 1:30 PM: After lunch, we head to the mesmerizing Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014. This place feels like a scene straight out of a fantasy movie, and in fact, it was! Trang An was a filming location for the 2016 Hollywood blockbuster Kong: Skull Island.
• Settle into a small boat for a 2-hour journey through Trang An’s magical tunnel cave system. As you glide along the emerald-green waterways, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and hidden caves, you’ll be completely captivated by the breathtaking beauty. Don’t forget your camera – this is a photographer’s dream!
• 3:45 PM: Back on the bus, we’ll make our way to Mua Cave (also known as “Dancing Cave”). Here’s where the adventure really kicks in – prepare to climb nearly 500 stone steps to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain. Yes, it’s a bit of a workout, but trust me, the view is absolutely worth it! From the summit, you’ll get an unbelievable panoramic view of the Tam Coc valley, with its golden rice paddies and winding rivers below. It’s like something out of a painting.
• 5:00 PM: After soaking up the views, it’s time to head back to Hanoi. Relax on the bus and maybe scroll through your photos – you’re going to have some incredible memories from today!
• 7:00 PM: Arrive back in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and get dropped off at your hotel. The evening is yours to explore the city or grab a tasty dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Overnight in Hanoi hotel.

Day 7: Hanoi Airport – Flight to Da Nang / Hoi An (B, L)

Morning:
After enjoying a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, it’s time to say goodbye to Hanoi. Your private car will be ready to pick you up and take you straight to Noi Bai Airport for your flight to Da Nang City. Sit back, relax, and get ready for the next leg of your adventure.

Upon landing in Da Nang, our friendly driver will greet you at the airport and whisk you away to your hotel in Hoi An’s charming center. Take some time to settle in, freshen up, and recharge for the exciting afternoon ahead.

Afternoon:

• 1:00 PM: Our guide and driver will pick you up and head toward Cam Thanh Coconut Village, a peaceful, lush green area just outside of Hoi An.
• 2:00 PM: Whether by car or a scenic boat ride, we’ll make our way to the village, where you’ll meet local fishermen and get a glimpse into their daily lives. It’s a chance to see firsthand how tradition and livelihood flow together here.
• 2:30 PM: Now the real fun begins! Hop into a bamboo basket boat, a quirky, round vessel unique to Vietnam. You’ll paddle through the serene water coconut forest as our guide shares stories about the area’s history and its role during the war.
• 3:30 PM: Time to roll up your sleeves and get hands-on!
  • Learn traditional net fishing techniques from local fishermen. Whether it’s casting a round net or trying a hand-pulled net, it’s all part of the adventure.
  • Challenge yourself in a fun basket boat race – it’s a laugh-out-loud experience!
  • Cruise along the coconut waterways, where you can spot crabs hiding amongst the trees. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a few!
  • End your time in the village by relaxing at a local fisherman’s house, where a refreshing drink awaits.
• After saying goodbye to the peaceful coconut forest, we’ll return to Hoi An Ancient Town to explore its magical streets. Wander through the central market, marvel at the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, and visit beautifully preserved Chinese temples, ancient houses, and museums. Each landmark tells a fascinating story of Hoi An’s multicultural heritage, blending Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences into a city unlike any other.

Stroll along the lantern-lit streets, soak in the peaceful charm, and let the rich history and unique architecture captivate your heart.

Day 8: Hoi An – Ba Na Hills, Golden Bridge Adventure (B, L)

After a hearty breakfast, it’s time to set off for an unforgettable day trip to Ba Na Hills, home of one of Vietnam’s most iconic landmarks – the Golden Bridge.

• A comfortable drive takes us to Da Nang, where you’ll board a cable car to ascend into the clouds. And trust me, this isn’t just any cable car ride – it’s one of the longest and most breathtaking in the world. As you glide upwards, take in the panoramic views of the lush forests and mist-covered mountains.
• Once you reach the top, the magic begins! Step onto the Golden Hand Bridge, a stunning work of art that feels like it’s been plucked straight out of a fairy tale. The bridge, held aloft by two enormous stone hands, seems to float among the clouds, offering spectacular views of the rolling hills and valleys below. It’s the perfect spot for jaw-dropping photos, so don’t forget your camera!
• Ba Na Hills is not just about the bridge – it’s a full-day wonderland! Originally a French hill station during colonial times, today it’s a vibrant entertainment complex filled with:
  • French-inspired architecture: Stroll through charming villages and gardens that look like they belong in Europe.
  • Fantasy Park: Let out your inner child with a variety of games and attractions.
  • Pagodas and gardens: Explore peaceful temples and enjoy the colorful, flower-filled gardens scattered across the hilltop.
• By late afternoon, we’ll take the cable car back down and head to your hotel in Hoi An. It’s perfectly located near the beach, so you can kick off your shoes, relax, and reflect on the magic of the day.

The evening is yours to enjoy – take a sunset stroll along the beach, find a cozy local restaurant, or simply unwind at your hotel.

Day 9: Da Nang – Flight to Ho Chi Minh City – Cu Chi Tunnels (B, L)

After breakfast, it’s time to check out, grab your bags, and head to Da Nang Airport for your flight to vibrant Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).

• Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, your guide will be ready to greet you with a warm welcome. We’ll head straight to your hotel to drop off luggage, giving you a moment to settle in before grabbing a delicious local lunch to recharge.
• 12:30 – 13:00 PM: Let’s kick off the afternoon with a trip to one of the most fascinating and historic landmarks – the Cu Chi Tunnels, about 60km from Ho Chi Minh City.

This legendary tunnel network spans over 200 kilometers and played a crucial role during the Vietnam War. Once an intricate underground city, the tunnels included hidden trapdoors, living quarters, weapon factories, storage areas, kitchens, and even field hospitals. It’s hard to believe that life thrived beneath the earth here, but the Cu Chi Tunnels were a testament to human ingenuity and resilience.

• On the way, you’ll notice the peaceful countryside – ducks paddling in the rivers, water buffalo grazing in lush rice paddies. It’s a stark contrast to the past, as this region once endured intense battles and relentless bombings.
• Before entering the tunnels, you’ll watch a short introductory video that explains how they were painstakingly built by hand. Then, it’s time to explore! Crawl through the narrow passages (don’t worry, you can choose shorter routes if needed) and experience what life was like underground. It’s an unforgettable glimpse into history.
• Afterward, you’ll get a taste of the guerrilla lifestyle by enjoying a snack of cassava (a staple food during wartime) and a cup of tea.

We’ll head back to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon, where you can relax at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure. Whether you choose to explore the lively streets of Saigon or find a cozy restaurant for dinner, the city’s energy will leave you buzzing.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City hotel.

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta Adventure (B, L)

Get ready for a day filled with lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and the peaceful charm of the Mekong Delta – known as the “rice bowl” of Vietnam. This region, with its maze of rivers, islands, and floating life, is like stepping into a different world.

• The day starts with a hotel pick-up, and as we leave the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll notice the scenery shifting to endless rice fields and tranquil villages. Our first stop is Vinh Trang Pagoda, a stunning temple blending Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer architectural styles. Take a moment to admire the giant Buddha statues and intricate details that make this pagoda so unique.
• From there, we arrive at My Tho City, where your adventure truly begins. Hop aboard a wooden riverboat and start cruising along the Tien River. Watch life along the water unfold – locals fishing, stilt houses standing tall over the river, boat-building workshops, and vendors waving from their small wooden boats.
• Our first destination is Tortoise Islet (Qui Islet), a peaceful slice of nature where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of the delta. Next, we drift through the scenic Bao Dinh Canal and head to Ben Tre Province – famously known as the “land of coconuts.”
• Here, we’ll take a closer look at local life, learning about the region’s unique Garden-Pond-Cage agricultural model. It’s a sustainable way of living that combines fruit farming, aquaculture, and animal husbandry. Don’t forget to sample some local specialties like coconut candy (watch how it’s made!) and a refreshing cup of honey tea – simple treats that carry the essence of the Mekong.
• At midday, we’ll stop at a riverside local restaurant for an authentic Vietnamese lunch. Enjoy the fresh flavors of the delta, including dishes made with locally sourced ingredients – a true culinary experience!
• In the afternoon, the adventure continues with a leisurely boat ride through shaded canals, lined with water-coconut trees. You’ll visit a tropical fruit garden and enjoy a traditional Southern Vietnamese folk music performance – a cultural highlight performed by local islanders.
• After a day of exploring, tasting, and immersing yourself in this peaceful corner of Vietnam, we’ll board the bus and return to Ho Chi Minh City.

Relax for the evening back at your hotel, taking time to reflect on the beauty and tranquility of the Mekong Delta.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City hotel.

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City – Flight Back Home (B)

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel and take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey you’ve had through Vietnam – from breathtaking mountains to peaceful rivers and vibrant cities.

After checking out, our friendly driver will be ready to pick you up and take you to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your flight back home.

As you leave Vietnam behind, carry with you the unforgettable memories, new friendships, and the beautiful stories of this incredible land.

Thank you for exploring Vietnam with us, and we hope to see you again on your next adventure! Safe travels!