Vietnam Beach Escape: 14 Days of Coast, Islands & Scenic Highlights

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.

After breakfast, you will travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Cu Chi (approximately 1.5 hours) to explore the famous underground tunnel system used during the Vietnam War.

Here, you will learn about how the tunnels were built and used in daily life, from living areas and kitchens to hidden trapdoors and defensive systems. There is also a chance to experience a short section of the tunnels and see various wartime exhibits, offering a meaningful and engaging introduction to Vietnam’s history. After the visit (approximately 4.5 – 5 hours), you will return to Ho Chi Minh City.

Later in the day, you can enjoy some free time with your family or friends, before your driver (no guide) transfers everyone to the airport for your flight to Phu Quoc.

Upon arrival, a driver will meet and take you to the hotel. Check-in will follow the hotel’s standard time (approximately 14:00–15:00), allowing everyone to settle in comfortably. The evening is free for you to relax or enjoy a meal at your own pace.
Overnight in Phu Quoc Island, as your beach getaway begins.

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.

Your day begins as your guide picks you up and takes you to Cam Thanh Coconut Village, where a peaceful countryside experience awaits.

Here, you will explore the water coconut forest on a traditional bamboo basket boat. As you glide through the calm waterways, local fishermen will introduce you to their daily life, including round net and cast net fishing (occasionally). You will also learn how to paddle the basket boat and take part in a fun boat race, followed by a chance to try crab-catching before enjoying a drink at a local fisherman’s house.

In the afternoon, continue to Hoi An Ancient Town, where your guide will lead you through its historic highlights. Visit the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall, known for its colorful architecture and cultural significance, then explore either Phung Hung Ancient House or Tan Ky Ancient House, both over 200 years old. A stop at the Japanese Bridge offers a glimpse into one of the town’s most iconic symbols.

Take some time to enjoy dinner at a local restaurant at your own expense, soaking in the charming evening atmosphere of Hoi An.

As evening falls, enjoy a boat ride along the river and release flower lanterns, sending wishes for luck and prosperity while taking in the magical atmosphere of Hoi An at night. Return to your hotel after the tour.

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.

Time to say goodbye to the beach… (don’t worry, Hanoi has its own charm waiting). Today, let’s enjoy a bit of free time before your driver transfers you to the airport for your flight to Hanoi.

Upon arrival, your guide and driver will welcome you and take you to your hotel for check-in (approximately 14:00–15:00), giving you a moment to reset before stepping into a completely different atmosphere.

In the afternoon, head out on a half-day city tour to discover Hanoi’s cultural highlights. The journey begins at the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where you will visit the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, and the One Pillar Pagoda (Mausoleum viewed from outside, as it is closed on Mondays, Fridays, and afternoons).

From there, you can continue to the Old Quarter, where the city truly comes alive. A short walking tour takes you through its bustling streets, filled with local life, street vendors, and hidden corners. Along the way, you’ll pass Hoan Kiem Lake, Turtle Tower, and Ngoc Son Temple (outside visit), while listening to stories that bring Hanoi’s history to life.

After the tour (approximately 3.5 – 4 hours), return to your hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Your tenth day begins with a private transfer and guide taking you from your hotel to Sapa. The journey follows the highway to Lao Cai with a short comfort break along the way, before continuing on a scenic mountain road where valleys and terraced fields gradually come into view.

Upon arrival in Sapa, you will notice the vibrant presence of ethnic groups such as the H’mong, Dzao, and Tay in their colorful traditional costumes. You will have time to enjoy lunch with local Vietnamese dishes (at your own expense) and complete your hotel check-in.

In the afternoon, take a short walk to Cat Cat Village, home of the Black H’mong people, located at the foot of Fansipan Peak. With your local guide, explore daily life in the village and trek down to the valley to visit a waterfall and a historic hydraulic power station built by the French. There will be time to take photos before trekking back uphill to Sapa, enjoying the beautiful scenery in the late afternoon.

The trekking distance is approximately 2.5 km and takes around 2 hours. Afterward, your driver will pick you up and bring you back to Sapa town.

The evening is free for dinner and personal activities at your own pace.

Overnight in Sapa.

Today brings one of the most memorable highlights of your time in the north, with a journey to Fansipan Peak, also known as the highest point in Indochina.

After breakfast, you’ll transfer to the cable car station and begin your ascent. The ride itself is a key part of the experience, offering wide, uninterrupted views over the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. As the cabin rises above the valleys, you’ll see layers of forest, terraced hillsides, and clouds drifting across the landscape, creating a calm and scenic start to the day.

Upon reaching the upper station, you’ll have time to explore the area at your own pace. A series of stone paths and stairways lead you through temple complexes and viewpoints, with opportunities to pause, take photos, or simply take in the fresh mountain air. If you feel comfortable, you can continue up the final steps to the summit, where a panoramic view awaits. This is a rewarding moment, but entirely optional depending on your preference and energy level.

After descending by cable car, you’ll return to Sapa town for a short break before beginning your journey back to Hanoi by private car, with comfort stops along the way.

You’ll arrive in Hanoi in the evening, after a full yet well-paced day that combines natural scenery with a comfortable travel experience.

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.

Enjoy a relaxed morning at your own pace, taking in your final moments in Hanoi before your journey comes to an end. When it’s time, your driver (no guide) will pick you up and transfer you to the airport for your departure flight.

As you head home, we hope you’re bringing back not just photos, but memories of places, flavors, and moments that will stay with you long after the trip.

Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back to Vietnam again soon!