Embark on the ultimate 18-day exploration of Vietnam, journeying from the energetic South to the majestic mountains of the North and the breathtaking bays. This grand tour is meticulously designed to showcase Vietnam's most iconic attractions and diverse landscapes. Experience the vibrant culture, captivating history, stunning scenery, and delicious cuisine that make Vietnam unforgettable.
Travel Route: Ho Chi Minh Arrival - Cu Chi - Mekong Delta - Da Nang - Hoi An - Ba Na Hill - Da Nang - Ha Noi - Sapa - Fansipan - Ha Noi - Ninh Binh - Lan Ha Bay - Ha Noi Departure
Vietnam Destinations Map
Welcome to Vietnam! Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), your guide and driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the city center. Check in and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Explore Ho Chi Minh City's landmarks, starting with the Independence Palace (Reunification Palace). Admire the colonial architecture of Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office. Gain insights into Vietnam's history at the War Remnants Museum. In the afternoon, journey (approx. 1.5 hours) to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Watch an introductory video before exploring the incredible underground network, learning about its construction and wartime life. See living areas, command centers, and hidden traps. Enjoy special tea and cassava, a wartime staple. You'll have time to relax or try the shooting range (optional, extra cost). Return to Ho Chi Minh City.
Depart at 8:00 AM for My Tho in the Mekong Delta. Visit the historic Vinh Trang Pagoda. Board a boat and cruise down the Mekong River, passing Dragon Island and observing river life. Navigate smaller canals to a village, visit local industries, enjoy tropical fruit and honey tea at a farmer's house while listening to traditional music. Experience a horse cart ride and a serene rowing boat trip. Savor lunch at a riverside restaurant featuring local specialties like elephant ear fish. Visit a coconut candy workshop. In the afternoon, enjoy cycling around the village to experience local daily life before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
Transfer to the airport for your morning flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, take a brief tour of the city. Visit Marble Mountain, exploring caves and enjoying views from the top. Continue to Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain) for panoramic vistas of Da Nang and its coastline. Afterwards, transfer to Hoi An and check into your hotel.
Explore the charming Hoi An Ancient Town on foot. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, wander through Chinese streets, see the old Phung Hung house, and browse Hoi An market. In the afternoon, drive to the My Son Sanctuary (UNESCO site). Spend about 2 hours exploring the ancient Champa ruins with your guide and enjoy a traditional Cham dance performance showcasing local costumes and music. Return to Hoi An.
(Approx. 7:45 AM - 8:00 AM Pick up)
Transfer from Hoi An to Ba Na Hills. Ascend via cable car, enjoying spectacular views. Walk across the iconic Golden Bridge (Hands of God). Explore the Le Jardin D’Amour flower gardens, Linh Ung Pagoda, and the historic Debay Wine Cellar. In the afternoon, have fun at Fantasy Park with its games and attractions, and explore King Peak. Descend via cable car and transfer back to your hotel in Hoi An.
Enjoy a full day at your leisure in Hoi An. Relax on the beach, explore the ancient town further, go shopping, or simply soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
Another free day to enjoy Hoi An as you wish. Perhaps take a cooking class, get clothes tailored, or revisit your favorite spots.
Enjoy free time until your transfer to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport (HAN), you'll be picked up and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, embark on a fascinating street food tour (approx. 2h45m). Discover the culinary secrets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, sampling Northern specialties like Bun Cha and local beer, while exploring the bustling streets and traditional shops.
Discover Hanoi's key sites, starting with the Ho Chi Minh Complex (Mausoleum closed Mon/Fri, exterior view only), including his stilt house and the Presidential Palace. Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university. In the afternoon, explore the Museum of Ethnology (closed Mondays, alternative: History Museum) showcasing Vietnam's diverse ethnic groups and traditional houses in its garden. Enjoy a 1-hour cyclo tour through the Old Quarter. Visit Ngoc Son Temple on Hoan Kiem Lake, the picturesque heart of Hanoi.
After breakfast, take a comfortable 6-hour drive to Sapa via sharing limousine. Check into your hotel and rest. In the afternoon, drive towards Lao Cai before turning off to Ta Phin village. Experience the culture of the Black Hmong and Red Dao people, known for their distinct dress and handicrafts. Enjoy walking through the village, visiting local homes, and exploring nearby caves. Return to Sapa.
Visit Silver Waterfall, the highest in Vietnam. Continue to Tram Ton Pass and trek 30 minutes through the forest along the Golden Stream to the beautiful Love Waterfall. Drive up to Heaven's Gate for stunning valley views. Transfer to the cable car station for a 25-minute ride up Fansipan Mountain. From the 2800m station, admire the views, visit the pagoda complex, and climb the final 600 steps to the Fansipan Peak – "The Roof of Indochina" (allow approx. 1.5 hours). Return to Sapa.
Drive south to the Muong Hoa valley, Sapa's largest terraced rice paddy area. Begin your trek (approx. 2 hours walking) descending into the valley, learning about rice cultivation from your guide. Walk from Lao Chai village (Black Hmong) to Ta Van village (Giay). After the trek, the car returns you to Sapa. At 3:00 PM, transfer back to Hanoi via sharing limousine. Check into your hotel upon arrival.
Depart Hanoi for Ninh Binh province. Visit Hoa Lu, the ancient royal capital, exploring the Dinh and Le king temples. Continue to Mua Cave and climb the 500 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of the Tam Coc valley. After a lunch break, visit the Trang An Eco-Tourism complex (UNESCO site). Board a small boat for a mesmerizing trip through limestone cliffs, caves (Sang, Toi, Ba Giot, Nau Ruou), and serene countryside landscapes often called "Halong Bay on Land." Return to Hanoi by car in the late afternoon (around 5:00 PM).
(Approx. 8:15 AM - 8:45 AM Pick up) Pick up from your Hanoi hotel by shuttle bus for the transfer to Tuan Chau Marina in Halong Bay (short break en route). Arrive around 11:45 AM - 12:00 PM and transfer by tender to the cruise. Welcome aboard with a drink, cruise briefing, and safety instructions. Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch as you sail through Con Vit islet towards Lan Ha Bay. Around 4:00 PM, arrive in the Ong Cam area. Enjoy kayaking and/or swimming in the bay's clear waters. Return to the cruise around 5:30 PM for anchor. Participate in a cooking demonstration (spring rolls) and enjoy the Sunset Party on the sundeck. Dinner is served around 7:00 PM. Afterwards, relax, join squid fishing, watch a movie, or enjoy drinks at the bar.
(Full day activities, likely via day boat) Start with optional Tai Chi on the sundeck at 6:00 AM, followed by a light breakfast. Around 8:00 AM, transfer to a day boat to visit Viet Hai village on Cat Ba Island. Cycle along village paths through forests and tunnels, enjoying rice field scenery. Visit an ancient local house and experience village life. Return to the day boat for lunch around 12:30 PM as you cruise Lan Ha Bay. In the afternoon (around 1:30 PM), enjoy free time for kayaking and swimming in the Van Boi area, known for its sandy beaches. Return to the La Pandora cruise around 4:30 PM. Enjoy another cooking demonstration and Sunset Party at 5:30 PM, followed by dinner at 7:00 PM and evening activities.
Enjoy an optional sunrise Tai Chi session at 6:00 AM, followed by a light breakfast. Around 7:00 AM, visit the Dark & Bright Cave area by local rowing boats, exploring this wild and mysterious part of the bay. Return to the La Pandora cruise around 9:15 AM to relax and check out. Lunch is served onboard around 10:00 AM as you cruise back. Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina around 12:00 PM via tender. Take the shuttle bus back to Hanoi, arriving at your hotel around 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. You are free until it's time for your transfer to Noi Bai Airport (HAN) for your departure flight.
This price is the sample rate based on 3-star hotel (16 nights) and Halong Cruise quality 4 star (1 night). Final pricing may vary depending on travel dates, hotel category, and group size.
Specific hotel names are subject to availability at the time of booking. Equivalent alternatives will be provided if necessary.
Thanks so much for checking out our tour itinerary! We're thrilled you're interested. The tour is fully customizable — whether upgrade hotels, adjust transportation, or the itinerary itself, we can tailor everything to fit your travel style. Just reach out for a custom quote!
Vielokal Consultant Team
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Vietnam stretches over 1,600 kilometers from north to south, which means the climate varies by region. In general, the most popular time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is dry and temperatures are pleasantly mild across much of the country. This season is ideal for exploring bustling cities, relaxing on beaches, and discovering cultural landmarks.
For the central region — including Hoi An, Danang, and Hue — the months from March to August are especially favorable. Expect sunny skies, warm seas, and fewer crowds, often with better hotel deals.
Meanwhile, southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc) enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round, but the dry season from November to April makes outdoor activities and river cruises more comfortable.
In the north (Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay), winter months (December–February) can be cool and misty, while late spring and autumn (March–April, September–October) bring clear skies and comfortable temperatures — perfect for trekking or cruising.
Tip: No matter when you visit, each region of Vietnam offers something unique, so the “best” time can also depend on the experiences you’re looking for.
Looking for travel inspiration, tips, and local insights?
Vietnam's weather varies significantly by region due to its long, narrow geography.
Southern Vietnam (e.g., Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta) enjoys hot and dry weather from November to April, with temperatures ranging between 25–35°C (77–95°F). The rainy season peaks between June and August, bringing short but heavy showers.
Central Vietnam (e.g., Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue) is typically hot and dry from January to August, with temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F). October and November can bring heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons, especially along the coast.
Northern Vietnam (e.g., Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh) experiences a cooler, drier climate from November to April, with temperatures averaging 17–22°C (63–72°F). The summer months from May to October are warm and humid, with heavy rainfall, particularly in July through September.
Each region has its own best time to visit depending on your preferred activities and destinations.
Looking for travel inspiration, tips, and local insights?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the length of your stay. Many nationalities are eligible for visa exemptions for short stays (usually 15-45 days). Others may need to apply for an e-visa online in advance or obtain a visa via a Vietnamese embassy/consulate. We strongly recommend checking the latest official visa requirements for your specific passport country well before your travel date. We can provide general guidance, but the responsibility for obtaining the correct visa lies with the traveller.
Absolutely! We specialize in creating personalized travel experiences. If you like one of our existing tours but want to modify it (change duration, add destinations, upgrade hotels), just let us know in your inquiry. Alternatively, if you want a completely unique itinerary built from scratch based on your interests, budget, and travel style, please fill out our "Tailor-Made Tour" request form or contact us directly. Our expert consultants love crafting dream trips!
Booking with Vielokal Travel is simple and flexible:
Browse our tours and find the one you love.
Fill out the inquiry form with the tour code and your details (travel dates, number of people, contact information, and any special requests).
If you're just inquiring, one of our travel consultants will reach out shortly to finalize the details and guide you through the payment process. If you're booking directly, you may be prompted to make a deposit payment.
Once your booking is confirmed (and deposit paid, if applicable), you’ll receive a confirmation email with your itinerary and further details.
Throughout your journey, our travel consultant will provide support and check in to ensure everything runs smoothly.
👉 You can also contact us directly via WhatsApp or email us at contact@vielokaltravel.com for quick assistance or to make a booking.
Once your deposit is received and your booking is confirmed, you will receive:
A formal Booking Confirmation email.
A detailed day-by-day itinerary (if not already provided).
Service Vouchers (usually sent closer to the travel date) confirming your arrangements (hotels, tours, transfers).
Contact details for our support team in Vietnam should you need assistance during your trip.
Your dedicated travel consultant will remain available to answer any further questions you have before you travel.
While we do not include travel insurance in our standard packages, we highly recommend that all travellers purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departing for Vietnam. Good insurance protects you against unforeseen circumstances like trip cancellation, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and travel delays. Proof of insurance may sometimes be requested.
Deep Local Expertise & Passion: We're not just booking agents; we are passionate locals and Vietnam travel experts based right here! We live and breathe Vietnam every day. This means we have intimate, up-to-date knowledge of destinations, hidden gems, cultural etiquette, and the best local spots that many others might miss. We offer authentic insights that only locals can provide.
Truly Personalized & Flexible Itineraries: We believe your trip should be yours. Forget rigid, one-size-fits-all packages. We listen carefully to your interests, travel style, pace, and budget to craft a unique, tailor-made itinerary just for you. Want to linger longer somewhere? Add a specific activity? We make it happen.
Focus on Authentic Experiences: We strive to connect you with the real heart and soul of Vietnam. This means incorporating meaningful interactions with local people, unique cultural experiences, delicious regional cuisine, and steering you towards genuine discoveries beyond the usual tourist crowds where possible.
Dedicated Support & Seamless Service: From your very first inquiry until you safely return home, you'll have a dedicated travel consultant. Crucially, being based in Vietnam means we offer reliable on-the-ground support 24/7 during your trip. If anything unexpected happens, we're right here to assist you immediately, ensuring a smooth and worry-free journey.
Excellent Value & Transparency: We leverage our local connections to offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality. Our quotes are detailed and transparent, clearly outlining what's included and excluded, so there are no hidden surprises. We focus on providing exceptional value for your investment.
Commitment to Quality & Responsibility: We carefully select our partners (hotels, guides, drivers) based on quality, reliability, and professionalism. We are also committed to responsible tourism practices that respect local culture and benefit the communities you visit.
Choosing Vielokal Travel means choosing peace of mind, authentic discovery, personalized care, and unbeatable local expertise for your unforgettable Vietnam adventure. Let us show you the difference!
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