12 Days Vietnam Journey: Islands, Coastlines & Northern Landscapes

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant and ever-moving gateway to your journey through Vietnam.

Upon arrival, your guide and driver will be there to greet you and take you to your hotel. Check-in will follow the hotel’s standard time (approximately 14:00–15:00), giving you a moment to settle in and unwind after the journey.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You might take a relaxed walk through Ben Thanh Market, stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, or simply soak in the city’s lively atmosphere together over your first local meal.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

After breakfast, you will embark on a comfortable journey to My Tho (about 2 hours), passing through lush countryside landscapes. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a scenic Mekong River cruise, where you can observe daily life along the riverbanks and pass by the legendary islands of Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle, and Phoenix.

At Unicorn Island, the experience becomes more immersive. You will visit a traditional coconut candy workshop to see how local products are made, followed by a gentle rowing boat ride through narrow, shaded canals. Here, the calm surroundings offer a quiet contrast to the main river. The visit continues with a tasting of seasonal tropical fruits, accompanied by live Southern Vietnamese folk music.

You will also visit a local bee farm, where you can learn about beekeeping and taste fresh honey. On your return, a stop at Vinh Trang Pagoda offers a chance to admire its unique architectural blend and tranquil setting.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Say goodbye to Ho Chi Minh City and get ready for a change of pace. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Phu Quoc, where beach days and slower rhythms begin. Upon arrival, your driver will be there to greet you and take you to your hotel.

Check-in will be as per the hotel’s standard time (around 14:00–15:00). The rest of the day is free, perfect for easing into island life. Maybe a short walk by the beach, a dip in the pool, or simply doing nothing at all.

Overnight on Phu Quoc Island.

Today, in the morning, you will explore Vinpearl Safari, where you can observe wildlife in spacious, natural habitats. The safari experience offers a unique opportunity to see animals up close while enjoying a comfortable and well-organized environment.

In the afternoon, continue to VinWonders theme park, a vibrant destination that perfectly complements your island escape.

As you explore the park, a mix of thrilling rides, immersive themed zones, and beautifully designed spaces creates a lively yet relaxing atmosphere. For beach lovers, the highlight lies in the park’s ocean-inspired areas, where the energy of the sea blends seamlessly with fun and entertainment.

Beyond excitement, you can slow down in the aquarium zones, where colorful marine life brings a refreshing coastal vibe. The enchanting mermaid show adds a magical touch, with graceful underwater performances that echo the beauty of the ocean.

After the visit, your driver will transfer you back to your hotel, ending the day with refreshing moments inspired by the sea.

Overnight in Phu Quoc

Your day begins with a visit to a pearl center, followed by a transfer to An Thoi Harbor, where your island-hopping experience starts.

A boat journey then takes you to several islands, each offering a different coastal setting. Mong Tay Island is known for its clear water and calm beach, while Gam Ghi Island is ideal for snorkeling and observing coral. At May Rut Island, a long sandy beach lined with coconut trees creates a relaxed space to unwind. For those interested, an optional seawalking activity is also available (with an extra cost).

Lunch is served at Hon Thom Island, after which you will have time to enjoy Aquatopia Water Park. Later in the day, a cable car ride (approximately 25 minutes) offers wide views over the sea and surrounding islands.

By late afternoon, you will arrive at Sunset Town, where Mediterranean-style architecture, the Clock Tower, and Kissing Bridge create a distinctive seaside atmosphere, especially as the sun begins to set.

In the evening, there is an option to attend the “Kiss of the Sea” show (not included). While optional, it is highly recommended and often considered a highlight of the Phu Quoc experience. Known as one of the most impressive performances on the island, the show combines water effects, lighting, and live performances to create a visually striking evening by the sea.

After the visit, return to your hotel.

Overnight in Phu Quoc.

Today, enjoy a relaxed morning in Phu Quoc, making the most of your final moments on the island before the next part of your journey begins. At the appropriate time, your driver (no guide) will pick you up and transfer you to the airport for your flight to Da Nang. As you leave behind the laid-back island vibe, a new coastal atmosphere awaits!

Upon arrival, your guide and driver will welcome you and take you to your hotel for check-in (approximately 14:00–15:00).

Da Nang offers a different kind of coastal experience: more vibrant, more energetic, yet still closely connected to the sea. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, explore the beachfront, or start discovering the city at your own pace.

Overnight in Da Nang.

After breakfast, you will take a scenic journey from the coastline to Ba Na Hills, where the world’s longest Hon Thom cable car ride offers breathtaking views of mountains and lush landscapes.

At the top, you will walk across the iconic Golden Bridge, explore the charming French Village, and enjoy a variety of attractions in a cool, refreshing climate. You also can admire the beautiful Linh Ung Pagoda and take in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The experience offers a perfect contrast to your beach stay while maintaining comfort and exclusivity.

A carefully arranged lunch with Indian-friendly options ensures a delightful experience before returning to the coast.

Overnight in Da Nang.

After a few relaxed days by the coast, enjoy some free time in Da Nang before your journey continues to the north. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival, your guide and driver will meet you and take you to your hotel for check-in (around 14:00–15:00).

The rest of the day is free to relax or explore at your own pace, an easy way to ease into the rhythm of the capital.

Overnight in Hanoi.

After breakfast, you’ll leave the city behind for a scenic drive to Ninh Binh, with a short break along the way to stretch and relax.

Your first stop is Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam. Walking through the temples of King Dinh and King Le, there’s a quiet, timeless feeling in the air—an easy place to slow down and take in stories from the country’s early days.

Around midday, pause for lunch (at your own expense) before continuing to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes. Here, you’ll settle into a small boat and drift gently along winding rivers, passing through caves like Sang Cave (Light Cave), Toi Cave (Dark Cave), and Nau Ruou Cave. Surrounded by limestone mountains and calm waters, the whole experience feels peaceful and almost cinematic.

By late afternoon, return to Hanoi by private car, arriving back at your hotel in the early evening (around 18:30 – 19:00). Dinner is on your own.

Overnight in Hanoi.

The day begins with a private transfer from your hotel to Halong Bay, where your coastal experience gently unfolds. Upon arrival, you will check in at the lounge before boarding the cruise.

As the journey begins, enjoy a light breakfast while the cruise glides past thousands of limestone islets across Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay, setting the tone for a relaxing day on the water.

The first stop is Sung Sot Cave, the largest cave in the bay, known for its impressive formations of stalactites in a variety of shapes. From there, continue to Titov Island, where you can take a refreshing swim in the turquoise water or climb to the top for panoramic views over the bay.

Back on board, lunch is served as the cruise passes by some of Halong Bay’s most scenic landscapes, allowing you to fully take in the surroundings at a comfortable pace.

In the afternoon, visit Luon Cave, where you can choose to explore by kayak or enjoy a peaceful bamboo boat ride (additional cost), taking in the quiet beauty of the area.

As the day continues, you may relax on the sundeck with live music or join a cooking demonstration at the restaurant, adding a light and enjoyable touch to the experience. The cruise returns to the harbor in the late afternoon, after which you will transfer back to your hotel in Hanoi. Dinner is on your own.

Please note: The itinerary may be subject to change depending on weather and cruising conditions. Wi-Fi is available in selected areas on board, though connectivity may be limited.

Today is set aside for you to enjoy Hanoi at your own pace, with no fixed schedule.

You might start the day with a slow walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, where locals gather for morning exercise and the city gradually comes to life. From there, wander into the Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets filled with small shops, street food stalls, and hidden cafés, perfect for a relaxed afternoon of exploring, tasting, and simply observing daily life.

If you’re looking for a change of pace, West Lake offers a quieter atmosphere with open views and lakeside cafés, while local markets such as Dong Xuan give a glimpse into the city’s trading culture. In the evening, you may choose to visit the night market or stop by Train Street, one of Hanoi’s most unique spots.

Take the day as it comes, Hanoi always has a way of making simple moments feel memorable.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Enjoy your remaining time in Hanoi at your own pace: perhaps a relaxed morning or one last stroll before you leave.

Check-out will follow the hotel’s standard time (around 11:00–12:00). Your driver (no guide) will then pick you up and transfer you to the airport for your departure flight.

As your journey comes to an end, we hope you leave with many memorable moments from Vietnam. Safe travels, and until next time!