Overview

 

Discover the heart and soul of Vietnam on this unforgettable 14-day adventure. From Sapa’s misty mountains to Ha Long Bay’s emerald waters, Ninh Binh’s tranquil landscapes, and the vibrant charm of Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City, every moment promises authentic cultural experiences, breathtaking sights, and heartfelt connections. Ready to create memories that last a lifetime? Let’s go!

Day 1: Pick up airport – relaxing in hotel

Day 2: Incense village – street food tour – Sapa  (B, L)

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

Day 4: Lao Chai – Ta Van village trekking – Sapa homestay (B, L, D)

Day 5: Sapa – Ha Noi

Day 6: Ha Noi – Halong bay on cruise (B, L, D)

Day 7: Halong bay – Ninh Binh (relaxing in Ninh Binh 1 night)

Day 8: Ninh Binh 1 day (Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Hang Mua)

Day 9: Ha Noi airport – Flight to Da Nang / Hoi An (B, L)

Day 10: Coconut Jungle – Cooking class  – Hoi An ancient town and drop off lanterns in the river  (B, L)

Day 11: Hoi An – Ba Na Hills 1 day (B, L)

Day 12: Hoi An – Flight to Ho Chi Minh – Cu chi tunnel half day (B, L)

Day 13: Mekong Delta 1 day (B, L)

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh – flight back home (B) 

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Pick up Airport – Relaxing in Hotel

Welcome to Hanoi! Upon landing at Noi Bai Airport, our friendly guide and driver will greet you at the arrivals lobby and take you straight to your hotel in the vibrant Old Quarter. During the 45-minute drive, we’ll share insider tips about must-see attractions, local culture, and where to find the tastiest street food. Once you arrive at the hotel, check in (from 2 PM onwards) and unwind at your own pace.

Overnight: A cozy stay in Hanoi’s Old Quarter awaits!

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

Incense Village Experience (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

• 7:45 – 8:15 AM: Start your day with a hotel pick-up in the Old Quarter, where our guide will whisk you away for a day full of cultural discovery.
• 9:30 AM: Visit Ha Thai Village, famed for its lacquerware tradition dating back to the 17th century. Meet a master artisan in their workshop, learn about this intricate art, and even create your own lacquer piece to take home.
• 10:50 AM: Next, we head to Chuong Village, renowned for its 300-year-old craft of making conical hats. Stroll through the village, meet an elderly veteran with fascinating war stories, or visit a skilled hat maker’s home. Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional home-cooked lunch, and if you’re up for it, join a small cooking class with your host. Afterward, channel your creativity by painting your very own nón lá or observing the artisans as they craft these iconic hats.
• 1:30 PM: Say farewell to Chuong Village and journey to Quang Phu Cau, where vibrant incense sticks light up the village. Explore the dyeing yards, snap amazing photos, and interact with local craftsmen.
• 3:00 PM: Tour the town’s largest incense factory, where you’ll see how incense is made step by step, meet the hardworking artisans, and have a chance to purchase incense directly from the source.
• 4:30 – 5:00 PM: Return to your hotel in the Old Quarter with unforgettable memories.

Street Food Tour (5:30 PM – 8:30 PM)

• 5:30 PM: Get ready for a flavorful adventure! Your guide will pick you up for a 3-hour food tour through Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
• Learn a bit of Vietnamese and discuss any food preferences or allergies before setting off.
• Wander through hidden alleys, bustling streets, and secret corners that only locals know, tasting 5–8 iconic dishes and at least 3 drinks, including egg coffee, fresh beer, and more.
• Delight your taste buds with bún chả (grilled pork with noodles), phở bò/gà (beef/chicken noodle soup), bún ốc (Snail noodle soup), bánh cuốn (steamed rice rolls), nem rán (fried spring rolls), Bánh tôm (Shrimp dumpling), Bánh Mì (Vietnamese sandwich), chè (sweet soup dessert), Bánh khoai, chuối ( Sweet potato,Banana cake), Hoa quả dầm ( Mixture fresh-fruit) and other local delights.
• The tour wraps up near Hoan Kiem Lake or wherever is most convenient for you, with guides happy to help you return to your hotel.

Overnight Journey to Sapa

• 9:30 – 10:00 PM: Head to the bus station and board your VIP sleeper bus for a comfortable overnight ride to Sapa. Drift off to sleep in your cozy cabin, dreaming of the adventures to come.

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

5:30 AM: Welcome to Sapa! Upon arrival at the station, our driver will pick you up and take you straight to your hotel.

6:30 AM: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local restaurant. Afterward, hop into our car for a ride to Sun Plaza, where you’ll board the Muong Hoa train to Hoang Lien Station. From there, take the cable car to the top of Fansipan Legend, the “Roof of Indochina,” and marvel at breathtaking views from the highest peak in Southeast Asia.

After conquering Fansipan, return to Sapa town for a delicious lunch and check into your hotel.

1:30 PM: Ready for more adventure? Our guide will meet you at the hotel to take you on a trek to Cat Cat Village, a charming H’mong village nestled in the hills. Wander through its scenic trails, admire stunning waterfalls, and learn about the historic hydropower station built during French colonial times.

5:30 PM: Return to your hotel to relax and enjoy dinner at the restaurant.

In the evening, take some free time to explore the lively streets of Sapa on your own—browse local shops, sip on a cup of warm tea, or simply soak in the mountain vibes.

Overnight: Relax and recharge at your hotel in Sapa.

Day 4: Lao Chai – Ta Van Village Trekking Through Rice Paddies – Homestay Experience (B, L, D)

8:00 – 8:30 AM: After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, get ready for an exciting trekking adventure! Our guide will meet you and lead you on a scenic walk down to Y Linh Ho, a picturesque village home to the Hmong minority. Along the way, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of terraced rice fields that have stood for over a century—perfect for capturing incredible photos.

From Y Linh Ho, we’ll trek onward to Lao Chai, the heart of the Hmong community. Here, you’ll take a short break (30–40 minutes) to rest and soak in the serene surroundings before continuing to Ta Van Village.

At Ta Van, a charming village shared by the Hmong and Giay ethnic groups, you’ll experience the warmth of the local culture. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and immerse yourself in the simple yet beautiful life of the villagers.

In the evening, join your host family to cook and share a delicious homemade dinner—a heartfelt experience that lets you connect with the locals and their traditions.

Overnight: Stay in a cozy homestay, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the Sapa countryside.

Day 5: Sapa – Hanoi (B, L)

Wake up to the soothing sounds of the countryside—maybe a rooster’s call or the gentle grunts of pigs nearby. Enjoy a delicious breakfast outdoors with fresh pancakes and a steaming cup of tea or coffee, all while soaking in the breathtaking views of the rice terraces. After breakfast, bid farewell to your lovely host family and begin your trek through a magical bamboo forest and the serene Silk Waterfall to Giang Ta Chai Village.

After a few hours of trekking, take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Once recharged, we’ll walk back to the main road where a car or minivan will take us back to Sapa Town.

1:00 PM: Return to Sapa, freshen up with a shower at the hotel, and get ready for your journey back to Hanoi.

2:00 PM: Our driver will pick you up for the ride to Hanoi.

7:30 PM: Arrive at your hotel in Hanoi. Check in, relax, and enjoy some free time exploring the charming streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter at night.

Overnight: Rest comfortably at your Hanoi hotel.

Day 6: Hanoi – Halong Bay on Cruise (B, L, D)

8:00 – 8:30 AM: Start your adventure as our limousine picks you up from your hotel in Hanoi for a scenic 3-hour drive to Halong Bay.

Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Marina, you’ll be greeted by the cruise receptionist at the waiting lounge.

11:30 – 12:00 PM: After a short rest, hop on a high-speed tender for a quick 25-minute ride to your main cruise. Enjoy a warm welcome from the cruise team with a refreshing drink. You’ll receive a short briefing on the cruise itinerary and safety guidelines before checking into your suite cabin.

1:00 PM: Savor a delicious lunch at the onboard restaurant as the cruise sets sail, taking you on an unforgettable journey through the stunning Lan Ha Bay.

3:45 PM: Explore the picturesque Ba Trai Dao area, known for its romantic vibe and iconic trio of peach-shaped islets. Dive into activities like kayaking, swimming, or simply soaking in the serene beauty. In case of unfavorable weather, the cruise will take you to the Dark and Bright Caves, where you can enjoy kayaking or sightseeing on a bamboo boat while marveling at the breathtaking limestone formations.

5:30 – 6:30 PM: Return to the cruise for a pre-dinner sunset party. Sip on drinks during Happy Hour (buy one, get one free!) as you watch the golden hues of the sunset paint the bay.

6:00 PM: Join a fun cooking demonstration led by the cruise chef and learn to make some of Vietnam’s signature dishes.

7:30 PM: Feast on a mouthwatering dinner featuring fresh seafood and classic Vietnamese flavors.

9:00 PM: Wind down your evening with entertainment options like squid fishing, karaoke, or simply stargazing from the deck.

Overnight: Drift off to sleep onboard the cruise, surrounded by the calm waters of Halong Bay.

Day 7: Halong Bay – Ninh Binh (B, L)

6:15 AM: Start your morning with tranquility and a touch of energy. Join a Tai Chi session on the top deck, admire the peaceful sunrise over the bay, or head to the gym for a unique sunrise view while working out.

7:30 AM: Enjoy a light breakfast at the restaurant as the bay slowly wakes up around you.

8:30 AM: Hop on a kayak to explore Tra Bau fishing village. Spend an hour paddling through serene waters, observing local fishermen at work, and getting a glimpse of oyster farming life.

10:00 AM: Return to the cruise, pack up, and check out of your cabin. While the boat sails back to the pier, enjoy a hearty brunch in the restaurant and settle your bill as your journey comes to a close.

11:30 AM: Disembark at Tuan Chau harbor and bid farewell to Halong Bay.

12:00 PM: Meet your driver and begin the scenic journey to Ninh Binh.

4:00 PM: Arrive at your hotel in Tam Coc. Check-in, relax, and enjoy some free time to unwind or explore the peaceful surroundings.

Overnight: Stay at a charming hotel in Tam Coc, soaking in the calm vibes of the countryside.

Day 8: Ninh Binh in a Day (Hoa Lu – Trang An – Hang Mua)

7:45 – 8:15 AM: Start your day with a warm welcome from our guide, then set off for an exciting journey to Ninh Binh. Along the way, enjoy a short 20-minute break to stretch, grab a snack, or simply relax.

10:00 AM: Step back in time at Hoa Lư, the ancient capital of Vietnam (968–1010). Discover the rich history of the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties and learn about the country’s fascinating feudal past. Afterward, hop on a bicycle and take a leisurely ride around the village, soaking in the tranquil countryside and getting a glimpse of local life.

12:30 PM: Savor a buffet lunch featuring local specialties like goat meat, fish, chicken, and fried rice. Vegetarian options are also available to ensure everyone finds something to enjoy.

1:30 PM: Head to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning cave system and majestic limestone landscapes. Enjoy a serene 2-hour boat ride through this breathtaking location, where parts of the movie Kong: Skull Island were filmed in 2016. Let the natural beauty of Trang An captivate your senses.

3:45 PM: Hop back on the bus and travel to Mua Cave, or Dancing Cave. Challenge yourself to climb nearly 500 steps to the summit of Lying Dragon Mountain. The reward? A spectacular panoramic view of Tam Coc’s lush greenery and winding rivers.

5:00 PM: Return to the bus and relax as we head back to Hanoi.

7:00 PM: Arrive in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where we’ll drop you off at your hotel. Enjoy dinner on your own, exploring the city’s vibrant food scene.

Overnight: Stay in a cozy Hanoi hotel, reflecting on the beauty of Ninh Binh.

Day 9: Hanoi Airport – Flight to Da Nang / Hoi An (B)

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast, then enjoy some free time to relax before your driver arrives to take you to the airport. Catch your flight from Hanoi to Da Nang, where you’ll be greeted by our driver and whisked away to your hotel in the charming center of Hoi An.

Once you’ve settled in, take the rest of the day to unwind and enjoy your beautiful surroundings.

Overnight: Relax and recharge in your cozy hotel in Hoi An, ready to explore this UNESCO World Heritage town tomorrow.

Day 10: Coconut Jungle – Hoi An Ancient Town (B, L)

Around 7:30 AM: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, and then meet your guide in the lobby for a full day of exploring the charming ancient town of Hoi An. Begin your journey by visiting the must-see landmarks: the bustling central market, the iconic Japanese Bridge, the tranquil Chinese temples and pagodas, and the beautifully preserved ancient commercial houses. Each stop offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural diversity that make Hoi An so special.

You’ll enjoy a local lunch, tasting the flavors of this region before heading to Cam Thanh Coconut Village.

13:30 – Your guide and driver will take you to Cam Thanh Village, where the adventure continues.

14:00 – Arrive in the village and meet the friendly local fishermen. You’ll learn all about their daily life and how they navigate the waterways.

14:30 – Hop into a traditional bamboo basket boat for a unique tour through the Cam Thanh water coconut forest. Your guide will share the history of the area as you paddle through the peaceful surroundings.

15:30 – Try your hand at traditional fishing techniques, including the round net and cast net, before learning how to paddle the famous Vietnamese bamboo boats. You’ll even have the chance to race your basket boat!

Explore the tranquil coconut waterways, which tell stories of a past shaped by war, and join the locals in catching crabs. Afterward, return to a fisherman’s home to enjoy a refreshing drink and delicious local food.

16:30 – 17:00 – After a day filled with unforgettable experiences, you’ll head back to your hotel to relax.

In the evening, you have some free time to explore Hoi An on your own or unwind in the comfort of your hotel.

Overnight: Enjoy a restful night at your Hoi An hotel, reflecting on the beauty and charm of the day.

Day 11: Hoi An – Ba Na Hill (B, L)

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we’ll head off to Da Nang to explore one of Vietnam’s most stunning engineering marvels – the Golden Hand Bridge. When we arrive, you’ll take a scenic cable car ride up to Ba Na Hill, where you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking Golden Hand Bridge, a unique architectural wonder that has become an iconic symbol of the region.

Ba Na Hill is a charming complex full of leisure activities, built on the site of a former French colonial-era climatic station. Here, you’ll have plenty of time to explore and enjoy the various attractions, from the bridge itself to the other fun activities in the area. The views from up here are absolutely incredible, making it the perfect spot for some memorable photos.

By late afternoon, we’ll return to Hoi An in a private car, where you can unwind and relax at your hotel.

Overnight: Enjoy a peaceful night at your Hoi An hotel, soaking in the beauty of the day.

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City – Cu Chi Tunnels (B, L)

Morning:
Your adventure starts with a flight at 9:15 AM from Da Nang, landing in Ho Chi Minh City around 10:55 AM. Upon arrival, our driver will pick you up and take you to your hotel to drop off your luggage. After that, we’ll head out for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

Once we’re fueled up, our guide will meet us at the hotel, and we’ll head out to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels.

Afternoon:
Located about 60 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi is a must-visit site that draws both locals and international visitors. The 200+ kilometers of tunnels were once an underground city during the Vietnam War. They were packed with trap doors, living spaces, storage areas, weapon factories, field hospitals, command centers, and kitchens, all hidden deep underground.

Today, the area looks peaceful with ducks and water buffaloes grazing in the rivers by the roadside, but it hides a violent past. The peaceful rice paddy fields were once the site of intense bombings and devastating battles. You’ll have a hard time imagining the destruction that took place here during the 1960s when Cu Chi was designated a “Free Target Zone.”

Before we enter the tunnels, you’ll watch a short film that explains how these tunnels were built. After that, we’ll dive into the history as we explore the tunnels firsthand. You’ll also get a chance to try some cassava (the food guerrillas ate during the war) and sip on some tea before we head back to Ho Chi Minh City.

In the evening, you’ll have free time to explore Ho Chi Minh City on your own—take in the sights, grab some local food, or just relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Overnight: Rest up in your hotel, ready for the next exciting day!

Day 13: Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta 1 Day (B, L)

Today is all about experiencing the vibrant heart of Southern Vietnam—the Mekong Delta. Get ready to cruise along the winding canals, passing lush tropical gardens, lively riverside villages, and boat docks. You’ll be on a traditional wooden boat, cruising through a picturesque landscape where you can see homes on stilts, local boat-building workshops, and friendly vendors selling their goods along the way.

Morning:
Your day begins with a pick-up from your hotel, and we head off to My Tho City. As we drive out of Ho Chi Minh City, the scenery slowly changes from the busy streets to tranquil rice fields and rural landscapes. On the way, we’ll stop at the beautiful Vinh Trang Pagoda to take in the peaceful atmosphere.

Once in My Tho, we’ll hop on a boat and cruise along the Tien River to Qui Islet, also known as Tortoise Islet, a place full of charm and local lore. From there, we’ll enter the Bao Dinh Canal and head into Ben Tre Province, famous for its coconuts. This region is known for its unique agricultural system, “Garden-Pond-Cage,” where locals farm in perfect harmony with nature.

Lunch:
We’ll stop for a break and enjoy an authentic Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant. You’ll taste the fresh, flavorful dishes the region is known for, surrounded by the beauty of the Delta.

Afternoon:
After lunch, it’s back to the boat for a relaxing cruise through the stunning tropical fruit gardens. You’ll also be treated to a performance of traditional Southern Vietnamese folk music by the locals—an unforgettable cultural experience.

Throughout the day, you’ll have the chance to taste delicious local treats like coconut candy and honey tea as you float along in your boat, shaded by towering water-coconut trees. After a full day of exploration, we’ll return you to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, where you can relax and reflect on your beautiful day in the Mekong Delta.

Overnight: Relax at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh – Flight Back Home (B)

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel and take in the last moments of your Vietnam adventure. After checking out, your driver will pick you up and take you to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your flight home. It’s time to say goodbye to this beautiful country, but don’t worry—your memories will stay with you forever. We hope to see you again on your next trip!

Safe travels and see you soon!