11D Journey through Vietnam’s Northern Wonders and Central Charm

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s dynamic southern metropolis. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Standard hotel check-in time is around 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

The rest of the day is free at leisure, giving you time to relax after your journey or explore the city at your own pace.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Today, travel from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho, gateway to the Mekong Delta, a region known for its fertile waterways, local traditions, and peaceful rural scenery.

Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Mekong River, where daily life unfolds along the riverbanks and around the famous islands of Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle, and Phoenix. On Unicorn Island, discover local cottage industries with a visit to a coconut candy workshop, enjoy a rowing boat ride through natural canals, and sample seasonal tropical fruits while listening to traditional Southern Vietnamese music.

You will also visit a local bee farm, where you can learn more about beekeeping and taste fresh honey. On the way back to Ho Chi Minh City, stop at Vinh Trang Pagoda, one of the most important pagodas in the Mekong Delta, admired for its blend of Vietnamese, Khmer, and Chinese architectural influences.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

This morning, travel to Cu Chi to explore one of Vietnam’s most significant historical sites. The Cu Chi Tunnels reveal the remarkable underground network used during the Vietnam War, offering insight into the resilience, resourcefulness, and daily life of Vietnamese soldiers during wartime.

During the visit, you will see hidden entrances, underground chambers, and wartime exhibits, as well as experience a short section of the tunnel system.

After returning to Ho Chi Minh City, enjoy free time until your transfer to the airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Meals are on your own.

Overnight in Da Nang.

Today’s journey brings you to the charming heritage town of Hoi An, with a stop first at Cam Thanh fishing village. Here, enjoy a bamboo basket boat ride through the peaceful water coconut forest and experience a fun introduction to local fishing culture and daily life.

Later, continue to Hoi An Ancient Town, one of Vietnam’s most beloved cultural destinations. Explore its historic highlights, including the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, traditional old merchant houses, and the iconic Japanese Bridge, all reflecting the town’s rich trading history and architectural beauty.

In the evening, enjoy one of Hoi An’s most memorable experiences: a boat ride with flower lantern release, creating a peaceful and magical moment beneath the glow of lantern-lit streets. Return to Da Nang afterward.

Overnight in Da Nang.

This morning, travel to Ba Na Hills, one of Central Vietnam’s most popular mountain resorts. A scenic cable car ride takes you up to the hilltop complex, where cool mountain air and panoramic views await.

Visit the world-famous Golden Bridge, dramatically held by giant stone hands, and explore the French Village with its European-inspired architecture. You will also have time to enjoy attractions at Fantasy Park and admire Linh Ung Pagoda and the surrounding mountain scenery.

Lunch is served at a shared buffet restaurant, with a choice of local food or Indian food. In the afternoon, return to Da Nang.

Overnight in Da Nang.

After breakfast, enjoy free time until your transfer to the airport for your flight to Hanoi.

Upon arrival, your guide and driver will welcome you and transfer you to the hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Meals are on your own.

Overnight in Hanoi.

This morning, depart Hanoi by private car for Sapa, one of northern Vietnam’s most scenic mountain destinations. Along the way, enjoy views of valleys and terraced rice fields as the road climbs toward the highlands.

Upon arrival in Sapa, you will have time for lunch on your own and hotel check-in. In the afternoon, visit Cat Cat Village, home to the Black H’Mong ethnic community. A gentle trek leads you through the village, where you can observe local daily life, admire beautiful mountain scenery, and visit a waterfall and old hydroelectric station from the French period.

Return to Sapa town in the late afternoon.

Overnight in Sapa.

After breakfast, begin the day with an excursion to Fansipan Peak, known as the Roof of Indochina. A scenic cable car ride offers spectacular mountain views before you reach the upper station. From there, you can visit spiritual sites and continue up the steps to the summit for panoramic views and memorable photos.

After returning to Sapa town and checking out, depart by private car back to Hanoi. Enjoy scenic views along the way before arriving in the capital in the evening.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Today, depart Hanoi by private transfer via the expressway to Halong Bay. Upon arrival, board your cruise and begin a memorable journey through one of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonders.

As the cruise moves through the bay, admire the stunning seascape of limestone islands rising from emerald waters. Lunch is served on board while you enjoy the scenery. In the afternoon, depending on the cruise program, you may have the chance to join activities such as kayaking, cave exploration, swimming, or simply relaxing on the sundeck.

In the evening, enjoy dinner on board and spend the night surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the bay. Please note that the exact cruise itinerary may vary depending on the operating route, which may be in Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, or Bai Tu Long Bay.

Overnight on cruise in Halong Bay.

Start the day with a peaceful morning in the bay. Many cruises offer a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, creating a relaxing start as the sun rises over the water.

After breakfast, continue cruising and enjoy one final scenic visit before returning to the harbor. Brunch is served on board before disembarkation. You will then transfer back to Hanoi by expressway.

Overnight in Hanoi.

After breakfast, enjoy free time at leisure until your driver transfers you to the airport for your departure flight.

As your journey comes to an end, take with you unforgettable memories of Vietnam’s vibrant cities, peaceful countryside, mountain landscapes, cultural treasures, and breathtaking bays.