Unforgetable Vietnam Itinerary

21 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City

Upon arrival at Ho Chi Minh City airport, our tour guide will greet you and escort you to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy your overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh Full Day City Tour

Embark on your urban adventure in the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh (formerly Saigon). This bustling metropolis serves as the country’s commercial center and boasts a growing array of upscale restaurants and shops. Your exploration will take you to Chinatown, the Thien Hau Pagoda, the Reunification Palace, the Opera House, and the Hotel de Ville. Optionally, you can visit the poignant War Remnants Museum.

Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of outdoor markets and stroll along Dong Khoi Street, the main shopping boulevard featuring items from new Vietnamese designers, hill tribe crafts, high-quality linens, and housewares. Conclude your day with a relaxing overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 3: Cao Dai Temples and Cu Chi Tunnels Full Day Tour

Cao Dai Temple
Situated just outside Tay Ninh and approximately 60 miles northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, the Cao Dai Temple, also known as the Great Temple or Holy See, serves as the focal point for the intriguing Cao Dai sect. This religious movement in Vietnam blends elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and even Catholicism. Constructed in 1933, the temple showcases a unique architectural style that reflects the syncretic nature of the Cao Dai beliefs. Many visitors opt for a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City to explore this fascinating site.

Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels, used by Viet Cong guerrillas during combat, are an intricate underground network located near Ho Chi Minh City. These tunnels served various purposes, including hiding spots, communication and supply routes, hospitals, food and weapon storage, and living quarters for guerrilla fighters. The tunnel system played a crucial role in the Viet Cong’s resistance against American forces, contributing significantly to their military success. Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels provides insight into the challenges faced by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.

Day 4: My Tho to Can Tho

Your journey begins with a hotel pick-up in Ho Chi Minh City. As you travel along the National Highway, you’ll be treated to scenic views of lush green rice fields. Upon reaching My Tho, embark on a leisurely boat ride along the river. Marvel at the stilt houses, fruit plantations, and fishing villages that line the riverbank. Continue to Tortoise Islet, where you’ll enjoy lunch in an orchard garden.

Next, take a boat ride to An Khanh, an off-the-beaten-path destination in Ben Tre. Cruise on a hand-rowed sampan under the shade of water coconut trees along natural canals. Delight in seasonal fruit and honey tea while listening to the melodies of Southern Vietnamese folk music performed by locals. Visit a family business that captures the essence of rural life, taste delicious coconut candy, and witness the pastoral charm of the fruit plantation and village.

This trip offers a captivating glimpse into daily life in the Mekong Delta, leaving you with cherished memories. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Can Tho.

Day 5:Mekong Delta to Ho Chi Minh City

Your day begins with an early start as you board a boat to explore the vibrant floating market of Can Tho. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as vendors exchange goods, with boats laden with fruits, vegetables, and various household items navigating the waters. It’s a dynamic and colorful scene that provides a glimpse into the unique trading culture of the Mekong Delta.

After your floating market experience, you’ll embark on the journey back to Ho Chi Minh City, which takes approximately 4 hours by road. Along the way, enjoy a lunch at Anh Vo traditional house. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 6: Drive to Da Lat

After breakfast, you will leave Ho Chi Minh City and head for Da Lat, known as the “City of Eternal Spring.” Upon arrival in Da Lat, you will be picked up and transferred to the hotel. Late in the afternoon you will be able to take a short walk to get a feel for this delightful city. Free day at leisure and overnight in Dalat

Day 7: Da Lat Full Day City Tour

Dalat was established in 1897 once French colonialists discovered its cool temperate weather as a salve for the heat of steamy Saigon. By the early 20th century, the town had grown with boarding schools, military colleges, resorts, and private villas, all built in the French style, few of which remain today.

Visit the summer palace of Vietnam’s last emperor, Bao Dai, an art deco-style villa constructed in 1933. At the time, it was considered quite luxurious, but with the wisdom of time, it now looks like a movie set from the 1950s. Bao Dai was forced to abdicate in 1945, shortly after the end of World War II, and spent the rest of his life in voluntary exile in France.

Continue to the botanical gardens and see a vast array of flowers in bloom, sculpted into different shapes and animals. Take a cable car ride over the gardens for a bird’s-eye view. Head to the Truc Lam Zen Monastery for a look into monks at work and see the daily rhythms of temple life. This is a unique form of Zen founded during the Tran dynasty where practitioners develop self-reliance and realization through meditation. The scenery around the temple is quite breathtaking.

Later in the afternoon, drive to Pongour Waterfall, the most beautiful in the south. The waterfall has many cascades falling from 30 meters to pools below. Overnight in Dalat.

Day 8: Drive to Nha Trang

You will drive, via Prenn Pass, to the “Chicken Village” (so called because of its statue of a chicken), which is inhabited by the Koho minority people. From here, you will head east and down the Ngoan Muc Pass to the coastal lowlands and Nha Trang, the country’s premier resort city.

This part of the country was once inhabited by an ancient civilization known as the Cham, and our next stop will be at the Po Klong Garai Cham Tower. This amazing structure, which has endured the test of time, the elements, and indeed war, was built in the 13th century.

You will stop for lunch at Cam Ranh Bay before arrival in Nha Trang for check-in. Free time at leisure and overnight in Nha Trang.

Day 9 & 10: Free Days at Nha Trang

Enjoy two days at your leisure in beautiful Nha Trang.

Day 11: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

Our guide will meet you at the hotel lobby and transfer you to the airport for a short flight to Danang. Upon arrival at Danang International airport, our guide will meet you and transfer you to the hotel in Hoi An. You will have free time to explore the town on your own.

Day 12: Hoi An Half Day City Tour

Itinerary Update:

Start your day with a hotel pick-up for a delightful half-day exploration of Hoi An. This charming town, once a bustling trading port for various cultures, including Chinese, Dutch, French, Japanese, Portuguese, and Arab merchants in the 16th to 18th centuries, is now renowned for its handcrafted silk, well-preserved architecture, delectable noodles, and seafood, along with its skilled tailors. The relaxed atmosphere and pedestrian-friendly streets make Hoi An a joy to explore.

The tour will take you to several iconic landmarks. Begin at Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, where you’ll marvel at the Jinshang Temple dedicated to the goddess of the sea. Next, visit Chua Ong Pagoda, constructed in 1653 to honor the Chinese general Quan Cong, revered for his embodiment of loyalty and justice. A short walk leads to Tan Ky House, a 200-year-old ancestral home. Conclude your journey by crossing the picturesque 17th-century covered bridge, crafted by Japanese artisans and serving both as a bridge and a temple. Wrap up the half-day adventure with a boat trip along the Thu Bon River.

Day 13: Drive to Hue

Embark on a picturesque drive from Hoi An to another UNESCO World Heritage site, Hue, passing through the breathtaking Hai Van Pass. Along the journey, make a stop to explore the Marble Mountains and visit a local handicraft village. Arrive in Hue and settle in for the night at your accommodation.

Day 14: Hue Full Day City Tour

Embark on a fascinating tour of Hue, starting at the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel. Explore the vast grounds, delving into the stories of the majestic structures and the intriguing history of the former emperors. Witness areas marked by both ancient and modern conflicts, gaining insights into Hue’s military significance. Take a cyclo ride to discover the serene gardens and traditional buildings, concluding at the lotus-filled Tinh Tam Lake, a historical relaxation spot.

Next, visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a symbol of Hue with a rich 400-year history. Enjoy tales from your guide about the pagoda’s spiritual significance and architectural wonders, all while overlooking the Perfume River. Afterward, savor lunch at a local restaurant before venturing into the picturesque countryside surrounding Hue.

Explore the tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, known for his resistance to French involvement in Vietnam. Admire the tomb’s impressive architecture and serene forest surroundings. Move on to Khai Dinh’s tomb, characterized by a unique blend of traditional Vietnamese and European design elements. Visit Ho Quyen, an ancient arena where emperors staged elephant and tiger fights for royal entertainment.

Conclude your journey with a visit to Dong Ba Market, a vibrant hub offering a glimpse into daily life in modern Hue. Browse the stalls, absorbing the lively colors and atmosphere before returning to your hotel.

Day 15: Fly to Hanoi – Street Eats Tour

Prepare for a flight to Hanoi, the captivating colonial capital adorned with tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture, serene lakes, and timeless pagodas. Your afternoon exploration commences with a visit to the Ngoc Son Temple, gracefully positioned on a small island in the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake. Cross the Huc Bridge, aptly named the ‘Place Touched by Morning Sunbeams,’ and immerse yourself in the legend of an emperor, a magical sword, and a giant turtle, which gave the lake its name.

Embark on a breezy cyclo ride through the Old Quarter’s labyrinthine streets, known for their eclectic offerings, from noodles to light fixtures and Buddha statues. The 36 streets of the quarter retain their historical names, each associated with the products once sold in their shops. Explore Tin and Bamboo Streets, where vendors continue to offer the same wares as they did in the past.

Embark on a culinary adventure with a street food exploration in the Old Quarter. Begin at Bia Hoi corner, savoring the local draft beer with roots tracing back to Eastern Europe. Follow the guide through narrow streets, discovering an array of delectable noodles, breads, and snacks. As night falls, witness the bustling sidewalks filled with locals enjoying flame-grilled Vietnamese barbecue at small pop-up restaurants. Conclude the evening with dessert from Hanoi’s renowned ice-cream parlor. Retire for the night in Hanoi.

Day 16: Free Day at Hanoi City

Embark on a comprehensive full-day city tour of Hanoi, a city steeped in a rich and captivating history that celebrated its 1000-year anniversary in 2010. Immerse yourself in the charm of the Old Quarter with a traditional cyclo tour, winding through narrow and ancient streets to absorb the vibrant sights and sounds.

As evening descends, your guide will meet you at the hotel and accompany you to the Hanoi Train Station for an overnight journey to Lao Cai. This marks the beginning of your Sapa adventure, with the night train providing a comfortable and scenic passage. Prepare for an overnight stay on the train, eagerly anticipating the enchanting experiences that await in Sapa.

Day 17: Sapa Half Day Tour

Upon early morning arrival at Lao Cai station, a waiting vehicle will transfer you to Sapa. The scenic drive to Sapa takes approximately 1.5 hours. Upon reaching Sapa, you’ll check into the hotel to freshen up and enjoy breakfast at the restaurant (early check-in subject to availability).

In the afternoon, embark on a walking tour to explore the hill tribe villages of Cat Cat, which is home to the H’mong hill tribe minority people. As you traverse the picturesque landscapes to the villages nestled in the valley below Sapa, you’ll encounter local minority people going about their daily activities. This presents a wonderful opportunity to engage with the families, fostering cultural exchanges. Your overnight stay in Sapa promises a unique and immersive experience.

Day 18: Sapa Tour, Train back to Hanoi

Meet your guide and embark on a journey to the quaint Giay village of Ta Van, nestled in the picturesque Muong Hoa Valley. Enjoy a scenic walk through serene rice terraces that adorn the landscape on your way to the Black H’mong village of Lao Chai. Marvel at the breathtaking cascades of paddy fields clinging to the mountainside, offering one of Vietnam’s most awe-inspiring views. Arrive at the home of Ms. Moo, a local Black H’mong lady, where you can immerse yourself in the traditional life and culture of the Black H’mong people. Experience a traditional H’mong herbal foot bath while soaking in the scenic beauty.

Next, head to the nearby Lao Chai village for a Batik painting session. The exquisite textiles of the Black H’mong are renowned worldwide, and Batik is an integral part of H’mong culture. Although under threat from modernization, Batik is still practiced by a select few villagers. Participate in a hands-on master class led by a local expert, creating your own Batik masterpiece to take home. This experience supports a sustainable tourism project that empowers local women and ensures the preservation of this remarkable art form for future generations.

The tour concludes with a leisurely stroll to the main road before transferring back to Lao Cai Station for the overnight train journey back to Hanoi.

Day 19: Hanoi to Halong Bay

Upon arriving in Hanoi early in the morning around 5 am, you will be greeted and transferred to a hotel for a day-use room and breakfast. Depart from Hanoi and embark on a roughly four-hour journey to the Halong Bay port. Board a small tender boat to reach your junk, anchored just offshore. Following a brief safety briefing, set sail towards the outer reaches of Bai Tu Long Bay, passing breathtaking limestone karsts emerging from the emerald waters. Enjoy leisure time on a pristine sandy beach or engage in kayaking activities. In the evening, participate in a cooking demonstration before relishing a delightful night on board the junk.

Day 20: Halong Bay to Hanoi

Begin your day with Tai Chi on the sundeck, soaking in the beautiful morning view of Bai Tu Long, and savor a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy breakfast in the fresh air while cruising to the Cong Do area. Explore the concealed Thien Canh Son Cave, one of the many caves in the Halong area, before indulging in a final display of Halong hospitality with an early buffet lunch as you head back to the harbor. In the afternoon, drive back to Hanoi.

Day 21: Departing Hanoi

Today is a free day with no planned activities, allowing you to leisurely explore and enjoy souvenir shopping. Later, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.