Discover the highlights of Vietnam on this engaging 12-day tour, travelling from the historical elegance of Hanoi in the north to the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City in the south. Experience the country's rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Explore ancient temples and imperial citadels, cruise through the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay, wander the charming streets of Hoi An, discover the imperial legacy of Hue, and delve into the dynamic life of the Mekong Delta. This journey offers a fantastic overview of Vietnam's must-see destinations, with opportunities to personalize your experience with optional tours.
Upon arrival at Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), look for your guide holding a sign at Pole No. 10 outside the Terminal. You'll be transferred to your hotel to check in. Standard check-in time is 2:00 PM (an early check-in may be possible, subject to a surcharge). The rest of the day is free for you to relax or begin exploring Hanoi at your own pace.
(Morning or Afternoon Departure, approx. 8:00 AM or 1:00 PM) Meet your guide at the hotel for an exciting half-day tour of Hanoi's significant attractions. Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university. See the unique One Pillar Pagoda, designed to resemble a lotus flower. Pay respects outside the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Ba Dinh Square (Note: Mausoleum closed Mon/Fri & Jun-Aug; exterior viewing only). Explore Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi's oldest pagoda, beautifully located by West Lake. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before being dropped off back at your hotel.
(Approx. 8:00 AM Departure from Hanoi) After breakfast, your driver will pick you up for the scenic journey to Halong Bay. Upon arrival at the port, cruise staff will assist with check-in. Board your elegant cruise ship around noon, receive a welcome drink, and listen to a brief introduction and safety guidelines. Enjoy a delicious lunch onboard as the cruise sails deeper into the magnificent bay, surrounded by towering limestone karsts. In the afternoon, participate in exciting activities like swimming in the emerald waters or exploring caves by kayak (activities vary by cruise). Later, you might join a Vietnamese cooking class (often featuring spring rolls) or relax on the sundeck during Happy Hour (look for 'Buy 1 Get 1' deals). A tasty dinner is served in the cruise restaurant. Afterwards, enjoy onboard activities like squid fishing, board games, or simply relaxing at the bar. (Note: Your tour guide does not accompany you on the cruise; English-speaking crew members will assist you. Transfers may involve a smaller tender boat.)
Start your day with an optional early morning Tai Chi session on the sundeck, or simply relax until breakfast is served. After breakfast, embark on another excursion to explore more of Halong Bay's famous attractions, such as a stunning cave (specific sites depend on the cruise). Around 10:00 AM, return to the main boat to pack your luggage and complete check-out procedures. Enjoy a scrumptious brunch onboard as the cruise sails back to the port. Disembark around noon, where your driver will meet you for the return transfer to Hanoi. Check back into your hotel in the Old Quarter and enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening at your leisure to explore or sample local street food.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, your driver will transfer you to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival at Da Nang Airport (DAD), another driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in the charming town of Hoi An. After checking in, the remainder of the day is free for you to relax or begin exploring this beautifully preserved ancient town at your own pace.
(Morning or Afternoon Tour) Prepare for a delightful walking tour through Hoi An's atmospheric Ancient Town (UNESCO World Heritage site). Your guide will lead you to key highlights, including historic ancient houses, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and the ornate Fujian Assembly Hall. Stroll along the scenic river, admire the unique yellow-painted architecture, and observe daily local life. You might also visit handicraft shops to see artisans at work or buy souvenirs. Consider trying the local refreshing herbal drink "Mot" (optional, surcharge approx. USD 3/pax). After the tour, your guide will depart, leaving you free to explore further on your own.
After breakfast, enjoy some free time before your road transfer (approx. 2 hours) to Hue, Vietnam's former imperial capital. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore Hue independently.
(Morning Pick-up: 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM) Embark on a morning tour to discover Hue's imperial past. Visit the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, the city's unofficial symbol, located on the banks of the Perfume River. Explore the impressive Imperial Citadel (UNESCO site), the vast complex where Nguyen Dynasty emperors once ruled. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Dong Ba Market, a great place to observe local life and perhaps practice your bargaining skills for souvenirs. After the tour, you'll be transferred back to your hotel, with the afternoon free.
After breakfast, transfer from your hotel to Phu Bai Airport (HUI) for your flight (approx. 1.5 hours) to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN), your driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in the city center. Check in and take some time to relax, or step out to get your first impression of this dynamic metropolis.
(Full Day Tour) Start your day with a 1.5-hour drive to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels. Watch a documentary film, then explore a section of this complex underground network used during the Vietnam War. See displays of living quarters, traps, and meeting rooms. You can also try the shooting range (optional, extra fee). Enjoy a light lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Ho Chi Minh City. In the afternoon, visit key city landmarks: the Independence Palace (former Presidential Palace), the poignant War Remnants Museum, and admire the French colonial architecture of the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral (exterior viewing as it's under renovation until 2027) and the Central Post Office. The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel.
(Approx. 8:00 AM Departure)
Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Ben Tre Province in the Mekong Delta. Enjoy a boat cruise along the Ham Luong River, observing riverside life. Visit local workshops to see coconut product making and traditional mat weaving. Take a walk through a village and experience a ride on a 'Xe Loi' (motorized rickshaw) through the countryside. Savor a delicious lunch featuring local specialties, including the famous deep-fried elephant earfish. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful sampan boat ride through narrow canals. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon.
Enjoy your final breakfast in Vietnam. Pack your luggage and savor your last moments in the city. Depending on your flight schedule, your driver will transfer you to Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) for your departure. (Note: Standard hotel check-out time is 12:00 PM. Late check-out may be available for a surcharge.)
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!
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