We love —
- Discovering the diverse wonders of Vietnam, from bustling cities and tranquil villages to lush landscapes and rich cultural traditions.
- Cruising overnight through the emerald waters of Halong Bay, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and serene natural beauty.
- Extending your adventure with Offer 2, starting in the dynamic metropolis of Kuala Lumpur where modernity and tradition meet.
Customer reviews —
Welcome to Vietnam —
Discover the authentic soul of Vietnam on a private tour from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the timeless charm of Hanoi. Explore the Mekong Delta’s waterways, marvel at the imperial elegance of Hue, and wander through Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets. The highlight: an unforgettable Halong Bay cruise past dramatic limestone cliffs and emerald waters.
For an even richer adventure, choose Offer 2 and begin in Kuala Lumpur, a vibrant city where modern skyscrapers meet historic temples, before continuing your Vietnam journey.
Our offers:
Offer 1: 9-14 night "Essence of Vietnam" tour
Offer 2: 9-14 night "Essence of Vietnam" tour & Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur 5*
- 12 nights: 3 nights in Kuala Lumpur + 9-night tour
- 15 nights: 3 nights in Kuala Lumpur + 12-night tour
- 17 nights: 3 nights in Kuala Lumpur + 14-night tour
Your itinerary in brief —
DURATION: 9, 12 or 14 nights
GROUP SIZE: Minimum 2 people
BEST FOR: Cultural immersion
PACE: Active
Explore Vietnam:
Embark on an unforgettable journey to experience Vietnam at its finest. Be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay, enchanted by boat rides through the Mekong Delta, awestruck by the ancient temples of Hue, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
To enhance your journey and add some relaxing moments, you can also opt to extend your stay with extra nights in Hoi An, Hue and Hanoi.
Choose from the following itineraries:
9-night itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City → Hue
Day 4: Hue ⇄ Thuy Bieu Village
Day 5: Hue → Da Nang → Hoi An
Day 6: Hoi An
Day 7: Hoi An → Da Nang → Hanoi
Day 8: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay
Day 9: Ha Long Bay → Hanoi
Day 10: Departure from Hanoi
12-night itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City → Hue
Day 4: Hue ⇄ Thuy Bieu Village
Day 5: Hue → Da Nang → Hoi An
Day 6: Hoi An
Day 7: Hoi An
Day 8: Hoi An
Day 9: Hoi An
Day 10: Hoi An → Da Nang → Hanoi
Day 11: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay
Day 12: Halong Bay → Hanoi
Day 13: Departure from Hanoi
14-night itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City → Hue
Day 4: Hue ⇄ Thuy Bieu Village
Day 5: Hue → Da Nang → Hoi An
Day 6: Hoi An
Day 7: Hoi An
Day 8: Hoi An
Day 9: Hoi An
Day 10: Hoi An
Day 11: Hoi An
Day 12: Hoi An → Da Nang → Hanoi
Day 13: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay
Day 14: Halong Bay → Hanoi
Day 15: Departure from Hanoi
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Your itinerary in detail —
9-night tour
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN HO CHI MINH CITY
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s bustling economic hub, offering a vibrant blend of modern skyscrapers and historic French colonial architecture. Visitors can explore lively markets, such as Ben Thanh, and immerse themselves in the city’s dynamic food scene and rich cultural heritage.
- Transfer from the airport to your hotel
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, where modern skyscrapers coexist with French colonial architecture and bustling markets
- Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City
Please note: check-in time is from 2:00 pm onwards.
DAY 2: HO CHI MINH CITY
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Early drive (2 hours) from Ho Chi Minh City to Ben Tre Province. Enjoy a scenic journey through lush rice paddies and fruit orchards
- Embark on a peaceful cruise on the Mekong River aboard the charming Apricot boat
- Visit a tropical fruit farmer’s home. Explore the orchard and witness traditional fruit harvesting techniques
- Stop at a family-run workshop and learn about coconut processing
- Explore a hidden island by traditional tuk-tuk or bicycle and experience warm greetings and friendly "xin chao" from villagers, then take a relaxing paddle boat ride through coconut-covered canals
- Savour a complimentary Mekong Delta lunch at the Apricot Riverside Restaurant
- Return to Ho Chi Minh City
- Overnight in Ho CHi Minh City
DAY 3: HO CHI MINH CITY → HUE
- Free time to explore Ho Chi Minh City
- Transfer (without guide) to Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) for your domestic flight to Hue
- Check-in to hotel in Hue
- Overnight in Hue
- Choose to enjoy an optional private excursion (extra charge) to discover agricultural life in Cu Chi and visit the Cu Chi tunnels (8.00 am-3.30 pm)
Day 4: Hue ⇄ Thuy Bieu Village
Hue, a former imperial capital, is known for its rich history and stunning architecture, including the UNESCO-listed Imperial City and royal tombs. The city offers a peaceful atmosphere, with beautiful temples, pagodas, and a blend of traditional Vietnamese culture and royal heritage.
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Visit Thuy Bieu Eco-Village: Bike tour through the village, stopping at local artisans (silk painting, incense, sesame candy) and visit a local family, learn about their culture, and cook traditional Hue dishes
- Cooking class: Prepare and enjoy 3 Hue dishes: Vả (fruit) with shrimp & pork, Bánh Ram It (crispy rice cake with shrimp & pork) and Bánh Khoái (pan-fried pancake with shrimp & pork)
- Explore the Imperial Citadel (UNESCO site) with a guide
- Overnight in Hue
DAY 5: HUE → HOI AN
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Drive to Hoi An: cross Hai Van Pass with stunning coastal views of central Vietnam and Lang Co Beach and stop at a local marble craft village and visit the Cham Sculpture Museum in Da Nang (no guide)
- Arrival in Hoi An in the afternoon, check-in to hotel
- Free time to relax by the pool, enjoy the beach, or explore the town on your own
- Overnight in Hoi An
DAY 6: HOI AN
Hoi An is a charming ancient town famous for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant lantern-lit streets, and rich cultural heritage. Known for its fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering delightful cuisine, craft shops, and beautiful beaches nearby.
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Free day to explore Hoi An - explore Hoi An, where the well-preserved Ancient Town transports you back in time with its lantern-lit streets, traditional architecture, and atmospheric riverside setting.
Optional private excursion (incurring extra charge) with visit to the My Son sanctuary and the old quarter (8.00am - 5.00pm)
Day 7: Hoi An → Danang → Hanoi
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Transfer without guide to Da Nang Airport for the flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to the city (30 km / 45 minutes)
- Visit Vietnam Ethnology Museum (closed on Mondays) and visit the Temple of Literature: Visit Vietnam's first university
- Take the Old Quarter Walk: discover the narrow streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, each named after the trades once practiced there (Silk Street, Rice Street, Paper Street, etc.)
- Hoan Kiem Lake Stroll: stroll around the picturesque lake, famous for the legend of the magical sword returned to the golden turtle god
- Overnight in Hanoi
DAY 8: HANOI → HA LONG
- Transfer from Hanoi to Halong. Early departure (7.30–8.00am) by shared bus (without guide) to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Board your luxury cruise. Enjoy a welcome drink and check in to your cabin
- Embark on a cruise through the enchanting landscapes of Ha Long Bay
- Kayak through secluded lagoons, and witness breathtaking sunsets over this UNESCO World Heritage site
- Dinner at the hotel
- Overnight on Ha Long Bay
Please note:
- This itinerary will be changed to suit weather conditions and boat availability
- English-speaking guide to be shared on the boat only.
- No private guide lis available for the Hanoi - Ha Long - Hanoi trip and on board the boat
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
DAY 9: HA LONG → HANOI
Ha Long Bay is a scenic natural wonder and spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its stunning limestone rock formations, which rise out of the calm emerald-green waters of the bay. The area is also known for its rich biodiversity and many caves, grottos, and small islands that dot the bay.
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Try out the wonderfully relaxing experience of a morning Tai Chi session on the cruise deck
- Disembark around 10:30am-11:00am
- Transfer back to Hanoi with a private driver
- Check-in to hotel in Hanoi
- Overnight in Hanoi
DAY 10: HANOI - DEPARTURE
- Breakfast at your hotel
- Free time to relax
- Transfer without a guide to the airport for your return flight
12-night tour
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN HO CHI MINH CITY
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s bustling economic hub, offering a vibrant blend of modern skyscrapers and historic French colonial architecture. Visitors can explore lively markets, such as Ben Thanh, and immerse themselves in the city’s dynamic food scene and rich cultural heritage.
- Transfer from the airport to your hotel
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, where modern skyscrapers coexist with French colonial architecture and bustling markets
- Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City
Please note: check-in time is from 2:00 pm onwards.
DAY 2: HO CHI MINH CITY
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Early drive (2 hours) from Ho Chi Minh City to Ben Tre Province. Enjoy a scenic journey through lush rice paddies and fruit orchards
- Embark on a peaceful cruise on the Mekong River aboard the charming Apricot boat
- Visit a tropical fruit farmer’s home. Explore the orchard and witness traditional fruit harvesting techniques
- Stop at a family-run workshop and learn about coconut processing
- Explore a hidden island by traditional tuk-tuk or bicycle and experience warm greetings and friendly "xin chao" from villagers, then take a relaxing paddle boat ride through coconut-covered canals
- Savour a complimentary Mekong Delta lunch at the Apricot Riverside Restaurant
- Return to Ho Chi Minh City
- Overnight in Ho CHi Minh City
DAY 3: HO CHI MINH CITY → HUE
- Free time to explore Ho Chi Minh City
- Transfer (without guide) to Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) for your domestic flight to Hue
- Check-in to hotel in Hue
- Overnight in Hue
- Choose to enjoy an optional private excursion (extra charge) to discover agricultural life in Cu Chi and visit the Cu Chi tunnels (8.00 am-3.30 pm)
DAY 4: HUE ⇄ THUY BIEU VILLAGE
Hue, a former imperial capital, is known for its rich history and stunning architecture, including the UNESCO-listed Imperial City and royal tombs. The city offers a peaceful atmosphere, with beautiful temples, pagodas, and a blend of traditional Vietnamese culture and royal heritage.
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Visit Thuy Bieu Eco-Village: Bike tour through the village, stopping at local artisans (silk painting, incense, sesame candy) and visit a local family, learn about their culture, and cook traditional Hue dishes
- Cooking class: Prepare and enjoy 3 Hue dishes: Vả (fruit) with shrimp & pork, Bánh Ram It (crispy rice cake with shrimp & pork) and Bánh Khoái (pan-fried pancake with shrimp & pork)
- Explore the Imperial Citadel (UNESCO site) with a guide
- Overnight in Hue
DAY 5: HUE → HOI AN
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Drive to Hoi An: cross Hai Van Pass with stunning coastal views of central Vietnam and Lang Co Beach and stop at a local marble craft village and visit the Cham Sculpture Museum in Da Nang (no guide)
- Arrival in Hoi An in the afternoon, check-in to hotel
- Free time to relax by the pool, enjoy the beach, or explore the town on your own
- Overnight in Hoi An
DAY 6: HOI AN
Hoi An is a charming ancient town famous for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant lantern-lit streets, and rich cultural heritage. Known for its fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering delightful cuisine, craft shops, and beautiful beaches nearby.
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Free day to explore Hoi An - explore Hoi An, where the well-preserved Ancient Town transports you back in time with its lantern-lit streets, traditional architecture, and atmospheric riverside setting.
Optional private excursion (incurring extra charge) with visit to the My Son sanctuary and the old quarter (8.00am - 5.00pm)
DAY 7: HOI AN
- Arrive in Hoi An and enjoy free time to settle in or start to explore - shop in the boutiques of the Old Town or visit Binh Minh Beach, located near your hotel
- Overnight in Hoi An
Choose the 14-night tour and extend your stay in Hoi An for two additional nights, enjoying its lantern-lit streets, riverside charm, and local flavours.
DAYS 8 & 9: HOI AN
- Breakfast at the Hotel
- Enjoy free time to explore Hoi An
- Optional private excursion (extra charge) to discover the countryside by bike and boat 8 am - 2.30 pm
- Overnight in Hoi An
DAY 10: HOI AN → HANOI
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a blend of rich history, French colonial architecture, and vibrant street life. Famous for its ancient temples, bustling Old Quarter, and the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi offers a unique mix of cultural heritage and modern energy.
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Transfer (without guide) to Danang Airport for your flight to Hanoi. Board your flight to Hanoi
- Arrival in Hanoi: Meet your guide and continue to the city (30 km, 45 minutes)
- Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and the Temple of Literature
- Stroll through the historic Old Quarter, marvel at the iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and savour the flavours of Vietnamese cuisine in bustling street markets
- Overnight in Hanoi
DAY 11: HANOI → HA LONG
- Breakfast at your hotel
- 7:30-8:00 AM: pickup by your driver at the hotel lobby for a shared transfer (without guide) to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage natural site
- Board one of the luxurious cruises in Ha Long Bay, enjoy a welcome drink, check into your cabin, and have lunch while the boat slowly sails through the bay
- Dinner on board
- Overnight on the boat
Please note:
- This itinerary will be changed to suit weather conditions and boat availability
- English-speaking guide to be shared on the boat only
- No private guide lis available for the Hanoi - Ha Long - Hanoi trip and on board the boat
DAY 12: HA LONG → HANOI
Ha Long Bay is a scenic natural wonder and spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its stunning limestone rock formations, which rise out of the calm emerald-green waters of the bay. The area is also known for its rich biodiversity and many caves, grottos, and small islands that dot the bay.
- Try out the wonderfully relaxing experience of a morning Tai Chi session on the cruise deck
- Disembark around 10.30 – 11.00am
- Your driver will then transfer you back to Hanoi
- Overnight in Hanoi
DAY 13: DEPARTURE FROM HANOI
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Free time to relax in Hanoi
- Departure
14-NIGHT TOUR:
Opt for the 14-night tour and indulge in two extra nights in Hanoi, savouring the city’s vibrant streets, rich history, and timeless charm.
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
For your tour, you can choose between a mix of 4 and 5* hotels or exclusively 5* accommodations, all carefully selected to ensure your comfort.
Your 4* and 5* accommodation:
- Ho Chi Minh City: Silverland Jolie 4* in an Executive Room or Nhat de l'Opera 4* in a Deluxe Room
- Hue: Senna Hotel 5* in a Premium Senna Room
- Hoi An: Anmira Hoi An 4* in a Deluxe Room or Legacy Hoi An 4* in a Superior Room
- Ha Long: La Regina Grand 5* or The Auco 5*
- Hanoi: The Q Hotel 4* in a Deluxe Room
- Beach extension in Hoi An: Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa 4* in a Deluxe Room
Your 5* accommodation:
- Ho Chi Minh City: Grand Saigon 5* in a Standard Room or Mai House 5* in a Premier Room
- Hue: Senna Hotel 5* in a Premium Senna Room
- Hoi An: Wafaifo 5* or Little Oasis 5* in a Standard Room
- Ha Long: La Regina Grand 5* or The Auco 5*
- Hanoi: Pan Pacific Hotel 5* or Melia Hotel 5* in a Deluxe Room
- Beach extension in Hoi An: Palm Garden Resort 5* in an Indochine Villa
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Single roooms available at an extra cost. Maximum room capacity: 3 adults + 1 baby or 2 adults + 1 child + 1 baby.
Your dining choices
Throughout your tour, you'll be able to relish an included breakfast every morning at your hotel. Lunch (excluding drinks) is included on Days 2 and 4 at Vietnamese restaurants. On board your mini cruise in Ha Long Bay, enjoy full board (excluding drinks).
Your included extras —
English speaking guide as per itinerary
An experienced English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the tour, bringing each destination’s history and culture to life.
Your optional excursions —
Discover the Hoi An countryside by boat and bicycle (minimum 2 people)
Discover life in the countryside on the outskirts of Hoi An with a morning in the rice fields where you'll catch a glimpse of the daily activities of local farmers.
Jeep tour of the Hoi An countryside - min 2 people
Explore the hidden treasures of the Hoi An countryside in a vintage jeep, between rice fields, traditional villages and authentic encounters with local craftsmen.
Day 3: Rural Vietnam Adventure - Farming, Cooking & Cu Chi Tunnels
Experience the authentic Vietnamese countryside with hands-on farm life, traditional cooking, and an intriguing visit to the historic Cu Chi tunnels, perfect for a small group adventure.
Day 6: Private day tour of the My Son Sanctuary and the ancient town
Take a day out to visit the My Son sanctuary, the holy land of the Champa kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage site, then head to Hoian for a tour of this charming, unspoilt town.
Stripes Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection 5* —
Offering a dynamic blend of old and new, Stripes Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection 5*, boasts a vibrant atmosphere, reflective of its surroundings in the bustling capital. Located near the city's business hub, this luxurious hotel is the perfect base for exploring Kuala Lumpur’s most creative downtown neighbourhood, full of top local eateries, art galleries, shops, and iconic landmarks.
Stay in one of the 184 bespoke guest rooms and suites, which feature a unique mix of contemporary design and urban chic, reflecting the history and character of the area. Take a refreshing dip in the rooftop swimming pool or relax in the sun while enjoying stunning city views.
Your room —
Enjoy a stay in a Deluxe Room.
Deluxe Room (30 m²)
Enjoy the refreshing design and modern facilities at your disposal in the stylish Deluxe Room, including an impressive marble bathroom. Each guestroom is fitted with state-of-the-art technology and boasts custom fixtures and furnishings, as well as beautiful black and white photographs of the neighbourhood, Jalan Kamuting, from years gone by.
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
Enjoy an elegant dining experience whilst on your stay and discover rustic charm at Brasserie 25, a sophisticated yet relaxed space, where you can enjoy a cosy meal in modern surroundings. For the opportunity to indulge in a selection of tasty drinks with the backdrop of downtown Kuala Lumpur, make your way to the hotel's nook-inspired rooftop bar, Man Tao, offering spectacular views and an excellent atmosphere.
Your time
After a busy day of sightseeing, enjoy relaxed moments overlooking Kuala Lumpur's impressive skyline from the rooftop pool. Cool down in the pool or lay on the sun loungers and soak up the rays. For a high-energy workout, visit the on-site fitness centre while on your city break.
Kuala Lumpur offers a wealth of cultural and architectural attractions. During your stay, visit the iconic Petronas Towers for stunning views of the city, explore the grand National Mosque (Masjid Negara) for its serene atmosphere, and admire the beautiful Thean Hou Temple, a vibrant Chinese temple known for its intricate design and peaceful surroundings.
Your journey to Vietnam —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destinations —
Vietnam
Vietnam is a country where tradition and modernity coexist in harmony. From the ancient temples in the north to the bustling cities of the south, it offers a rich tapestry of cultural and natural treasures. Hanoi, the historic capital, stands as a testament to the nation's layered past, while the dramatic landscapes of Ha Long Bay and the tranquil Mekong Delta provide an escape into nature’s splendour. The energy of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) contrasts beautifully with the serenity of rural life, making Vietnam an alluring destination for every traveller.
Must-sees:
- Ha Long Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its towering limestone pillars rising from the emerald waters.
- Hoi An Ancient Town: A charming town where traditional wooden houses and ancient streets showcase Vietnam’s rich heritage.
- Mekong Delta: A network of rivers and canals that offer an intimate look at rural life, with vibrant floating markets and lush landscapes.
Culinary culture:
Vietnamese cuisine is a celebration of flavour, balance, and fresh ingredients. Renowned for its diverse street food culture, dishes like pho (noodle soup), banh mi (sandwiches), and fresh spring rolls highlight the nation's ability to blend herbs, spices, and textures seamlessly. Regional specialities, such as Hanoi's bun cha and Ho Chi Minh's com tam, offer a unique insight into the local way of life. Meals are often a communal affair, reflecting Vietnam's deeply ingrained culture of sharing and hospitality.
Dive deeper:
For those seeking a more profound connection with the country, explore lesser-known treasures such as the ancient temples of Ninh Binh or the quiet beauty of Sapa's terraced rice fields. Take part in a traditional cooking class to gain hands-on experience with local ingredients and techniques, or visit the quieter rural areas to witness traditional crafts and the slower pace of life. Exploring Vietnam beyond the main cities unveils its rich and diverse culture, offering a truly immersive experience.
Good to know:
Vietnam's currency is the dong (VND), and most places accept cash payments, though credit cards are commonly used in cities. The climate varies depending on the region, with the ideal travel times being between October and April, avoiding the summer heat and rain. For local transport, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are reliable, and trains or buses connect the major cities. Be prepared for some traffic in larger cities, but the local transportation system is generally efficient.