18 Days Vietnam Discovery Itinerary: Explore North to South Highlights
$2150 $1800 per person
EXPLORE NORTH TO SOUTH HIGHLIGHTS
This meticulously crafted itinerary takes you beyond the usual tourist paths, offering a perfect blend of iconic landmarks and lesser-known treasures. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene landscapes of Ninh Binh, the majestic Ha Long Bay to the historic town of Hoi An, experience Vietnam’s rich culture, breathtaking scenery, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or culinary explorer, this adventure promises unforgettable memories and unique experiences in one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting destinations.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
HIGHLY RECOMMEND
Proudly awarded a 5-star rating by travelers from around the world.
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Destination
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Departure
Noi Bai International Airport -
Departure Time
Morning on day 1 -
Return Time
Departure in the morning or afternoon on day 18 -
Places List
HA NOI - HA LONG BAY - LAN HA BAY - NINH BINH - HOA LU - TAM COC - HANG MUA - BAI DINH - TRANG AN - DA NANG - HUE IMPERIAL CITY - HAI VAN PASS - BA NA HILL - HOI AN - MY SON SANCTUARY - NHA TRANG - HO CHI MINH - CU CHI TUNNELS - MEKONG DELTA
From Our Gallery
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DAY 1: HA NOI ARRIVAL – HELLO VIETNAM
Morning
- Welcome to Vietnam! Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, our dedicated team will be ready to provide a warm pick-up and ensure a smooth transfer to your selected accommodation in the heart of Hanoi. 21-Day Vietnam Itinerary
- Check into your hotel, where you'll find a blend of modern comforts and traditional Vietnamese hospitality awaiting you. Take some time to unwind, refresh, and prepare for an exciting exploration of the capital city.
- Begin your Vietnamese free your own adventure with a leisurely stroll through the captivating Old Quarter of Hanoi. Allow the narrow streets to guide you through a maze of ancient charm, where each corner unveils a piece of the city's rich history and vibrant culture.
- Make your way to the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, a picturesque oasis in the heart of Hanoi. Marvel at the beauty of the Ngoc Son Temple situated on a small island within the lake, connected by a charming red bridge.
- As the evening unfolds, delve into the culinary delights of Hanoi by immersing yourself in the enticing world of local street food. Taste a variety of savory and sweet dishes, each a testament to the diverse and flavorful Vietnamese cuisine.
- After a day filled with exploration and gastronomic delights, return to your hotel for a restful overnight stay, ready to embrace the many adventures that lie ahead.
- Overnight in Hanoi.
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DAY 2: HA NOI CITY TOUR (B,L)
Morning
- 8:30 : Tran Quoc Pagoda - West Lake
- The bus/car and tour guide will pick you up from hotel in old quarter about 8 AM, driving to Tran Quoc Pagoda is located on an island east of West Lake (Tay Ho District), with 1500-year history, which is considered to be the oldest in Thang Long-Hanoi.
- It was the Buddhist center of Thang Long citadel in the Ly and Tran dynasties. With its historical and architectural values, Tran Quoc pagoda is famous for its sacred Buddha land, which attracts many Buddhists and visitors to Vietnam.
- 9:30 : Ho Chi Minh complex
- Visitor to Ho Chi Minh complex ( Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, the presidential palace, house on stilts the final resting place of Uncle Ho, where He lived and worked from 1954- 1969).
- 11:00 : Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
- This is the most recent yet probably the largest and undoubtedly the most interesting Museums in Ha Noi and Viet Nam. There are both indoors and outdoors section, while the in – housed exhibition is particularly informative,
- the outdoors display and activities make the museum stand out from the rest. There are a number of houses modeling after the traditional architecture of ethnic minorities, especially those who live in Northern and Central highlands.
- 12:30 : Lunch Time
- 14:00 : The temple of literature ( The first university in Vietnam)
- Being an ancient school of Thang Long and the first university in Vietnam, Temple of Literature is acknowledged as an ancient historical-cultural heritage which gives tourists deeper understanding about Hanoi - years of culture and tradition.
- 15:00 : Hoa Lo Prison
- It were built in 1899. The French kept mainly political prisoners here along with those awaiting sentencing at the nearby Court of Justice, also where American pilots who had been shot down and captured were kept as prisoners of war.
- The pilots called it, sarcastically, the “Hanoi Hilton.” John McCain was held here at various times during his five and a half years as a POW.
- 16:00 : Clients will choose 2 options : Cooking class or watch water puppet show in Thang Long theater . After that, drop of customers at hotel
- Free to have your own dinner and free to explore Hanoi by night
- Overnight in Ha Noi.
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DAY 3: HA NOI – HA LONG BAY/LAN HA BAY TOUR (B,L,D)
NOTE: The itinerary shown below is for the 5-star Lan Ha Bay Cruise route.For the Ha Long Bay Cruise (3-star or 4-star) itinerary, please CLICK these below :
- 3 STAR HA LONG BAY ITINERARY
- 4 STAR HA LONG BAY ITINERARY
- 7:45 – 8:15: Get picked up from your hotel.
- 8:15 ~ 11:30: Follow the newest highway connecting Hanoi and Ha Long.
- then passengers will be welcomed by receptionist at cruise's waiting lounge.
- 11:30 – 12:00: After taking a rest, our high speed tender will transfer you to the main cruise (Around 25 minutes).
- Get onboard and warmly welcome from crew team with welcome drink.
- After that, you will be given a short briefing about Cruise and safety guideline at our restaurant. Complete the check-in procedure and check-into private cabins.
- 13:00: Enjoy a lunch in the restaurant. Cruise start to depart for the voyage to discover the Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay.
- 15:45: Visit the Ba Trai Dao area and the natural lagoon of Lan Ha Bay – this area includes the beach breaths a romantic atmosphere and three smaller islets like three giant peaches on the sea. You can join with our activities such as: kayaking, swimming, sightseeing and explore the Ba Trai Dao area.
- (In unfavorable weather conditions, to ensure the safety of our guest, this destination would be change into Dark and Bright cave- famous for the pristine natural beauty and poetic, attractive seascape of Lan Ha Bay. You can join with our activities such as: kayaking, sightseeing on the bamboo boat, … - This is the best time for you to enjoy bamboo boats or swimming which is an interesting activity to discover the truest beauty of the stunning limestone structure and the blue sky of Lan Ha Bay).
- 17:30 – 18:30: Come back to our cruise and enjoy the pre-dinner sunset party with Happy Hour Promotion (buy 1 get 1 free with some kinds of drinks) at the bar while watching the view of the bay at sunset.
- 18:00: Join a cooking demonstration, our chef will guide you how to make some simple signature Vietnamese dishes.
- 19:30: Enjoy special seafood and typical Vietnamese food on the cruise.
- 21:00: Evening entertainment: Squid fishing, karaoke…
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DAY 4: HA LONG BAY/LAN HA BAY TOUR – HA NOI (B, BRUNCH)
Morning
- 6:15: Wake up early, join the Tai Chi session on sundeck area, enjoy the fresh atmosphere and watch the sunrise in Lan Ha Bay.
- 7:00 – 7:45: Have breakfast. Admit morning view of bay’s landscape with a cup of tea or coffee.
- 08:00: Stroke the stunning views of the Bay and it’s dramatic limestone islets
- Visit the famous Tra Bau, it’s time for freely kayak and explore the landscape, or swim...
- 09:00: Back to your cabin, relax and check carefully all the luggage before leaving your cabin.
- 09:30: Check-out and enjoy a fantastic cruise on the bay for room service. Complete check out procedure and enjoy your brunch at cruise.
- 10:30: Enjoy the brunch at restaurant.
- 11:30 - 12:00: Disembark at Tuan Chau harbor then a private car's driver pick up you there to go to Ha Noi
- Because of cruising conditions, the program may be changed slightly due to specific weather or tide conditions without prior notice to visitors. Wi-Fi is available although internet connectivity is limited due to the geography of Ha Long
- 17:00 Arrival back at your hotel in Hanoi
- Overnight in Hanoi
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DAY 5: NINH BINH TOUR – HOA LU – TAM COC – HANG MUA (B,L)
Morning
- 07:30 – 8:00: Get picked up by our friendly guide then depart for Ninh Binh province
- 09:15: Have a short break for 15 – 20 minutes to relax
- 10:30: Visit Hoa Lư ancient capital of Vietnam between 968 and 1010. You have a chance to learn about Vietnamese history in the feudal system under Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasty
- Here, we go cycling around the village for sightseeing & discovering the life of the local people
- 12:30: Have a buffet lunch in the restaurant with many local foods such as goat meat, fish, chicken, and fried rice…Vegetarian foods are always available in the buffet lunch
- 14:30: Visit Tam Coc by 1.5-hour bamboo boat. You will be surprised by the charming beauty here with paddy fields, river, water, cloud, sky, and a stunning cave system during the boat trip. All make a masterpiece that the Vietnamese people called “Ha Long Bay on land”
- 16:00: Get back to Bus then leave for Mua Cave (Dancing Cave). Walk up almost 500 steps, you can reach the top of Lying Dragon Mountain & have an amazing panoramic view of Tam Coc from here17h00 : Check in Bungalow/Hotel then free time to relax (can use swimming pool in summer time)
- 19:00 : Have dinner at bungalow/hotel then walk around Tam Coc for awalk
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DAY 6: NINH BINH TOUR – BAI DINH – TRANG AN – HA NOI (B,L)
Morning
- 8:00: Have breakfast at Hotel/ Bungalow then check out and be ready for the trip
- 9:45 - 10:00 : Get picked up then transfer to Bai Dinh Pagoda
- 10:30: Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda – the most famous & biggest Pagoda in southeast Asia with many records set such as 500 Stone - Arhat Statues, 36 ton-bronze Bell, 100 ton-Budhha Statues…
- 12:30: Have lunch in the restaurant with a lot of local foods such as goat meat, fish, chicken fried rice…. Vegetarian foods are always available in the buffet lunch
- 13:30: Visit TràngAn whichwas recognized by UNESCO as A World Heritage Site in 2014. TrangAn has a wonderful tunnel cave system so Kong’s Movie Group chose this place for the New Version of Kong in 2016 – “Skull Island”. With 2.5 hours for the boat trip, you will be persuaded by the beauty here.
- 16:00: Get on the bus to return to Hanoi
- 18:30: Get dropped off at Hotel in Hanoi
- SLEEP IN HANOI
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DAY 7: HA NOI – FLIGHT TO DA NANG & LEISURE (B)
Morning
- Morning, enjoy breakfast at hotel. Spend your time at leisure in Ha Noi until we trasnfer you to airport for flight to Da Nang.
- Upon arrival in Da Nang, transfer to hotel for check-in. Rest of the day is your leisure time to explore the city on your own.
- Sleep in DA NANG
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DAY 8: HUE IMPERIAL CITY VIA HAI VAN PASS TOUR (B,L)
Morning
- 7:00 Depart from Da Nang in the early morning, setting out on a scenic journey to the historical city of Hue.
- Begin your exploration with a visit to the iconic Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the grandeur of the ancient citadel, adorned with intricate architecture, ornate gates, and historic relics. Dive into the rich history as you wander through the Forbidden Purple City, once the private quarters of the royal family.
- After a morning immersed in Hue's imperial legacy, savor a delightful Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, offering regional specialties.
- 13:00 Continue your journey to the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, an emblematic seven-story pagoda perched on the banks of the Perfume River. Explore its tranquil grounds, learn about its storied past, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Conclude your day trip with a visit of The Tomb of Khải Định, officially Ứng Mausoleum is a tomb built for Khải Định, the twelfth Emperor of the Nguyễn dynasty of Vietnam. It features a blend of Vietnamese architecture with Western styles. The tomb was completed in 1931 after 11 years of construction
- As the sun begins to set, return to Da Nang, reflecting on the cultural treasures and historical splendours uncovered during your immersive day in Hue.
- Overnight in Da Nang, carrying with you the memories of Hue's fascinating past and timeless beauty.
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DAY 9: VISIT BA NA HILL TOUR (B,L)
Morning
Afternoon
- Breakfast at hotel. Then 7:30-7:45 take excursion to: Bana Hills
- Embark on a 35-kilometer journey to Ba Na and elevate your experience with a breathtaking Cable Car ride, boasting 5 world records, leading you to the enchanting Ba Na Hills station. Pause at the captivating By Night station to explore Vong Nguyet hills, Linh Ung pagoda, and the charming Old Villas reminiscent of French architecture.
- Ascend further on the cable car to reach the summit of Nui Chua Mountain, the pinnacle of Ba Na range. Revel in panoramic views as you discover Nghinh Phong top, Le Nim Villas, and the serene Orchid Garden. The cable car journey itself is a mesmerizing experience, offering glimpses of the picturesque landscapes below.
- As your morning adventure unfolds, indulge in a scrumptious lunch at the club restaurant, savoring not just culinary delights but also the stunning vistas surrounding you. Bana Hills promises a perfect blend of natural beauty and architectural wonders, making your visit an unforgettable travel experience.
Afternoon
- Embark on an exhilarating adventure as you immerse yourself in the boundless fun of Fantasy Park, the third-largest indoor games zone in Vietnam. Unleash your inner thrill-seeker with a plethora of captivating games, including mind-bending 4-5D films, the adrenaline-pumping skiver, the pulse-quickening Death Race, and the enchanting Dinosaur Park.
- As the day transforms into night, indulge in a delectable dinner that captures the essence of Da Nang's culinary delights. With a satisfied palate, retire for the night in the heart of Hoi An and ready to embrace the wonders of tomorrow's adventures.
- Overnight in Da Nang
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DAY 10: HOI AN FREE TIME & LEISURE (B)
- Indulge in a delightful breakfast at the hotel to kickstart your day. Following this, allocate some leisurely moments to explore the charming Old Town of Hoi An. Immerse yourself in a leisurely stroll through its quaint streets, where every step unveils a tapestry of history and culture.
- Take this opportunity to engage in a spot of shopping, perusing the array of unique boutiques and local markets that line the ancient streets. From traditional crafts to contemporary fashion, the Old Town presents a myriad of choices for the discerning shopper.
- Allow yourself to be captivated by the timeless beauty of Hoi An, and as you navigate through its atmospheric lanes, take breaks at cozy cafes to savor the local flavors or simply to unwind. This leisurely exploration promises not just a shopping experience but a journey through the heart of a town that echoes with tales of yesteryears.
- As the day unfolds, relish the moments of relaxation amidst the cultural richness of Hoi An, creating memories that resonate with the gracious charm of this historic town.
- Overnight in Hoi An
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DAY 11: MY SON SANCTUARY MORNING TOUR (B,L)
Morning
- 07:00 We will pick you up at rendezvous in Danang & Hoi An city, and then we go to visit My Son Sanctuary – one of World’s Heritage Sites
- You'll walk around with our tour guide for 2 hours to visit the historic and cultural ruins of the 16th century which brings you back to the glorious time of the Champa civilization.
- During your visit to My Son, the guide will show you the remains of a special brick tower, and explain the origin and historical significance of the site including the meanings of each tower or monument. Moreover, you’ll have a chance to enjoy the Champa's traditional performances.
- 12:00 Have lunch in the localrestaurant
- 13:00 Return to Hotel.
- End of services & see you next trip!
- SLEEP IN HOI AN
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DAY 12: DA NANG – FLIGHT TO NHA TRANG (B)
- Morning, breakfast at hotel. Your leisure time to explore the ancient town on your own.
- Transfer to Danang airport for flight to Nha Trang.
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DAY 13: NHA TRANG FREE DAY & LEISURE (B)
- Today you will be free to relax. You may choose to snorkel or dive among the coral reefs in crystal blue waters, hike nature trails, cool off in your private plunge pool, indulge in spa treatments or just relax on the white sand beach and admire the unspoiled mountain and sea views before retiring for the evening.
- Overnight in Nha Trang.
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DAY 14: NHA TRANG – FLIGHT TO HO CHI MINH (B)
- Morning, enjoy breakfast at hotel. Spend your time at leisure in Nha Trang until we trasnfer you to airport for flight to Ho Chi Minh.
- Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh, transfer to hotel for check-in. Rest of the day is your leisure time to explore the city on your own.
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DAY 15: HO CHI MINH CITY – CU CHI TUNNELS TOUR (B,L)
Morning
Afternoon
- 08:00 – 08: 30 AM: Pick up at your hotel and start the city tour included:
- Independence Palace (the Reunification Palace) was built on the sight of the former Norodom palace.
- War Remnants Museum which has a vast display of the both the Indochina wars.
- Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office the beautiful structures from the French Colonial times
- Jade Emperor Pagoda with the peaceful atmosphere &o many stories behind each detail of the pagoda.
- 12:30 AM: Lunchtime with a famous Phở restaurant (Vietnamese noodle soup).
Afternoon
- 02:00 PM: Depart around 1,5 hours through the pleasant countryside before arriving at Cu Chi Tunnels – the historic site where Vietnamese soldiers used as a shelter during wartime. This fantastic network stretches over 250 km and is the shelter of Vietnamese soldiers during the wars.
- There is a shooting range where you can try to fire automatic or semi-automatic weapons for a fee (this fee is not included)
- 06:00 – 07:00 PM: Be dropped off at your hotel. Dinner on your own account. Overnight at the hotel.
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DAY 16: HO CHI MINH – MEKONG DELTA TOUR (B,L)
Morning
Afternoon
- 8:00 Begin your day with an exploration of the Mekong Delta, a region renowned for its lush landscapes and intricate waterways.
- Visit My Tho, where you'll embark on a boat journey along the Mekong River. Immerse yourself in the delta's vibrant culture as you cruise past floating markets, traditional villages, and verdant orchards.
- Continue your Mekong Delta adventure with a visit to Ben Tre, known for its coconut groves. Take a boat ride along narrow canals, surrounded by swaying coconut palms. Visit local workshops to witness traditional methods of producing coconut candies, rice paper, and other regional specialties.
- 12:00 Lunch time
Afternoon
- 13:30 After an enriching day in My Tho and Ben Tre, make your way to Can Tho, the heart of the Mekong Delta. Check into your accommodation and unwind after a day filled with exploration.
- Evening at leisure in Can Tho, providing an opportunity to stroll along the riverfront or savor local delicacies at one of the charming restaurants.
- Overnight in Can Tho, anticipating the unique experiences the Mekong Delta has in store for you the following day. Vietnam travel package
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DAY 17: MEKONG DELTA TOUR – HO CHI MINH (B,L)
- Delights - Cai Rang Floating Market and Return to Ho Chi Minh City
- Morning
- Breakfast time
- Around 6.30am, we pick you up to visit the Cai Rang floating market which is wholesale market of fruit and vegetable at its busiest at this time of the day. Keep cruising through the small channels system and visit a rice noodle making village. Experience the “Monkey Bridge” in the Delta.
- Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. We then head to Ho Chi Minh
- Overnight in Ho Chi Minh
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DAY 18: DEPARTURE (B)
- Enjoy a leisurely and free day in Ho Chi Minh City, allowing you the flexibility to explore further, indulge in last-minute shopping, or simply relax in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
- Perhaps venture into the bustling Ben Thanh Market for unique souvenirs, stroll along Dong Khoi Street, or visit one of the city's historical landmarks.
- Relish a final taste of Vietnamese cuisine at a local eatery or savor a cup of traditional Vietnamese coffee in one of the charming cafes.
- Departure in the morning or afternoon, tailored to your schedule. Bid farewell to the captivating sights, sounds, and flavors of Vietnam as you head to the airport for your onward journey.
✓ WHAT'S INCLUDED
- ✔Shared Group tour
- ✔Standard shared transportation
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- ✔Comfortable private room in beautiful hotel 3 star
- ✔Delicious local meals mentioned in the itinerary
- ✔English speaking Local tour guides.
- ✔Full participation in various activities as per the itinerary.
- ✔All entrance fees for the included sightseeing destinations.
✕ NOT INCLUDED
- ✘Tip money
- ✘Drinks ( Beer, smoothie, wine…)
- ✘Personal expense