Vietnam Essentials: A 10-Day South to North Adventure
$849/
per personOverview
Experience the essential beauty and culture of Vietnam on this captivating 10-day journey from the vibrant South to the historic North. Start in bustling Ho Chi Minh City, explore the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta, and delve into history at the Cu Chi Tunnels. Fly to Central Vietnam to wander the charming ancient town of Hoi An before heading north to the elegant capital, Hanoi. Conclude your adventure with an unforgettable overnight cruise amidst the stunning limestone karsts of Halong Bay. This tour offers a perfect blend of iconic sights, cultural experiences, and natural wonders in a concise timeframe.
Highlight
- Explore the dynamic Ho Chi Minh City and the historic Cu Chi Tunnels.
- Discover the vibrant river life and local crafts of the Mekong Delta (Ben Tre).
- Wander through the charming, lantern-lit streets of Hoi An Ancient Town.
- Experience the culture and history of Hanoi, Vietnam's capital.
- Enjoy an overnight cruise through the magnificent limestone islands of Halong Bay.
- Includes key domestic flights for efficient travel between regions.
Tour Itinerary
Welcome to Vietnam! Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, your guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel for check-in. Take time to rest after your journey or begin exploring the energetic atmosphere of this southern metropolis at your own pace.
- Meals: None
- Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
(Approx. 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM) After breakfast, your guide will pick you up for a group tour to Ben Tre province in the Mekong Delta. Enjoy a boat cruise along the Ham Luong River, observing riverside life. Visit local workshops, such as coconut processing or traditional mat weaving, to see the local economy in action. Take a short walk through a peaceful village for a glimpse into Delta life, followed by an exciting ride on a "xe loi" (motorized rickshaw) through fruit farms. Relish a delicious lunch at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties like fried elephant-ear fish. In the afternoon, relax on a sampan boat ride through narrow, shaded canals before returning to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City around 5:00 PM.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
(Approx. 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM Start) Meet your guide and depart for the Cu Chi Tunnels (approx. 70km drive). Explore this incredible underground network used extensively during the Vietnam War, learning about its history and seeing repurposed tunnels serving as hospitals, bedrooms, and command centers. Enjoy a light lunch at a local restaurant on the way back to Ho Chi Minh City.
Afterwards, head back to your hotel briefly before transferring to the airport for your evening flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival at Da Nang Airport (DAD), you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Hoi An for check-in.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An
Enjoy a leisurely start before embarking on a half-day walking tour of Hoi An's charming Ancient Town (UNESCO World Heritage site). Wander through the atmospheric streets, visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and explore the beautifully decorated Fujian Assembly Hall, reflecting the town's rich history and multicultural influences. Admire the unique architecture and perhaps stop by a handicraft shop to see local artisans at work. Consider trying the refreshing local herbal drink, "Nuoc Mot" (optional, surcharge approx. USD 3/pax) from a street vendor. After the guided tour, the rest of the day is yours to explore Hoi An further at your own pace.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An
Today is yours to enjoy Hoi An freely. You could wander through the bustling Hoi An Central Market, browse the myriad of shops selling lanterns, ceramics, and tailored clothing, relax by the pool, head to nearby An Bang beach, or simply soak up the unique atmosphere of this enchanting town.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An
Enjoy a final breakfast in Hoi An. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Da Nang Airport (DAD) for your flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport (HAN), your driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the city center. Check in and take some time to settle. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax or begin exploring Vietnam's capital city.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
(Morning or Afternoon Tour, approx. 8:00 AM or 1:00 PM start)
After breakfast, join your guide for a half-day tour exploring Hanoi's most popular sights. Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, showcasing traditional Vietnamese architecture. See the unique One Pillar Pagoda, known for its distinctive lotus-inspired design. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex (exterior view only), the final resting place of Vietnam's revered leader. Explore the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, located beautifully on West Lake. Enjoy lunch as part of the tour. Afterwards, you have free time to explore Hanoi's Old Quarter, relax at a cafe, or continue sightseeing independently.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
(Approx. 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM Departure from Hanoi) Enjoy breakfast before your driver picks you up for the scenic 2.5-hour drive to Halong Bay. Upon arrival at the port, check in and board your cruise vessel around noon. You'll be welcomed with a refreshing drink by the crew. Settle in and savor a delicious lunch featuring fresh local seafood as the cruise begins sailing amidst the thousands of stunning limestone karsts rising from the emerald waters. In the afternoon, participate in activities based on your cruise's itinerary, such as swimming, kayaking, or exploring caves. Later, relax on board, perhaps joining a sunset viewing or happy hour on the sundeck. Enjoy a delectable dinner served in the ship's restaurant. Spend the evening enjoying onboard activities like squid fishing, watching movies, or simply relaxing under the stars.
- Note: Your tour guide does not accompany you on the cruise; English-speaking cruise staff will assist you. The specific schedule varies by cruise.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: On-board an overnight cruise in Halong Bay
Wake up early to witness the serene beauty of sunrise over the bay, perhaps joining a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck. Enjoy a light breakfast around 7:00 AM. Afterwards, continue exploring Halong Bay with activities like kayaking or visiting a magnificent cave (details depend on the cruise itinerary). Return to the boat, check out of your cabin, and enjoy brunch as the cruise sails back towards the main dock. Disembark around noon, where your shuttle bus will be waiting to transfer you back to Hanoi. Arrive back at your hotel in the afternoon, leaving you time to relax or enjoy a final evening stroll through the Old Quarter, perhaps sampling some delicious street food.
- Note: The specific schedule varies by cruise.
- Meals: Breakfast, Brunch
- Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you'll have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or relaxing. Your driver will transfer you to Noi Bai Airport (HAN) for your departure flight. We hope you had a wonderful time exploring Vietnam!
- Note: Standard hotel check-out time is 12:00 PM. Late check-out can be arranged for a surcharge.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: NA
Frequently Asked & Question
Booking with us is easy!
1. Browse our tours and find the one you love.
2. Click the "Book Now" or "Send Inquiry" button on the tour page.
3. Fill out the booking/inquiry form with your details (travel dates, number of people, contact information, any special requests).
4. If booking directly, you may be prompted for a deposit payment. If sending an inquiry, our travel consultant will contact you shortly to finalize details and guide you through the payment process.
5. Once your booking is confirmed (and deposit paid, if applicable), you'll receive a confirmation email with your itinerary and further details. Rest assured, your dedicated travel consultant will provide support during your trip and follow up with you afterwards to ensure everything went wonderfully.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!