We Love —
- Discovering the unmissable Hue and Hoi An for an unforgettable cultural immersion in the middle of temples, the imperial city and ancient houses.
- Visiting the magnificent Cat Ba Island and its national park before embarking on a cruise in the legendary Ha Long Bay.
- Going for the seaside stopover in Phu Quoc where you will be surorunded by soft sandy beaches and azure waters.
Customer reviews —
Cat Ba Island is one of my favourites in Vietnam - the national park's jungle is magnificent and you're right in the heart of Halong Bay. Wake up early on your night cruise to catch the early morning sunrise.
Your itinerary in brief —
Embark on an unforgettable experience to Vietnam on a 12-night tour. Visit the country's must-see sights from Cat Ba Island National Park to the mythical Ho Chi Minh City via a cruise on Ha Long Bay and be enchanted by this unique country.
Make the most of your time in Vietnam and opt for a seaside extension of 3 or 6 nights in Phu Quoc and 1 night in Saigon (15 or 18-night tour). Enjoy the gentle coastline in complete peace of mind.
Choose the length of your stay:
12-night tour:
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi - Free time
Day 3: Hanoi - Cat Ba Island
Day 4: Cat Ba Island
Day 5: Cat Ba Island - Lan Ha Bay
Day 6: Lan Ha Bay - Hanoi - flight to Hue
Day 7: Hue
Day 8: Hue - Danang - Hoian
Day 9: Hoi An - Ancient city of Hoian & My Son sanctuary
Day 10: Hoi An
Day 11: Hoian - Danang - Flight to Saigon
Day 12: Saigon
Day 13: Saigon - Departure
Seaside extension in Phu Quoc – 3 nights :
Day 11: Danang - flight to Phu Quoc
Day 12: Phu Quoc
Day 13: Phu Quoc
Day 14: Phu Quoc - Saigon
Day 15: Saigon
Day 16: Saigon - Departure
Seaside extension in Phu Quoc – 6 nights:
Day 11: Danang - Flight to Phu Quoc
Day 12: Phu Quoc
Day 13: Phu Quoc
Day 14: Phu Quoc
Day 15: Phu Quoc
Day 16: Phu Quoc
Day 17: Phu Quoc - Saigon
Day 18: Saigon
Day 19: Saigon – Departure
Please note: Your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Your itinerary in detail —
12-night tour
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN HANOI
Arrive in Vietnam's bustling capital and head to your hotel.
- Airport welcome from English-speaking guide
- Transfer to hotel
- Check in from 2 pm
- Overnight hotel stay
DAY 2: HANOI
Explore the historic charm of Hanoi, where ancient pagodas, French colonial architecture, and bustling markets create a captivating tapestry of culture. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets of the Old Quarter, savour the diverse street food, and witness the city's vibrant energy against the backdrop of Hoan Kiem Lake.
- Breakfast included
- Free time to explore Hanoi
- 'Discover Hanoi's local cuisine and culture by Jeep' and 'The mysterious caves of Ninh Binh' available as optional excursions (at an additional cost)
- Overnight hotel stay
DAY 3: HANOI - CAT BA ISLAND
Located 145 km east of Hanoi, Cat Ba Island is the main island of North Vietnam and the 2nd largest in the country, after Phu Quoc. The island also offers many opportunities for sport and discovery, with its sandy beaches, floating villages and hiking trails.
Enjoy a walk through the park close to the forest, which is home to many endangered species. Follow the path through the Kim Giao precious wood forest to the summit of Ngu Lam, which offers spectacular views over the region.
- Breakfast and lunch included
- Transfer and ferry to Cat Ba Island
- Trail walk (3 - 4 hours)
- Overnight hotel stay
Please note:
- Journey Hanoi - Pha Got: 110 km - 2h30 drive
- Hiking level: Medium, 3-5 km uphill and downhill on a mixed dirt path and tarmac road
DAY 4: CAT BA ISLAND
- Breakfast and dinner included
- Time to explore at your leisure
- Overnight hotel stay
Day 5: Cat Ba Island
Board the boat for one of the most luxurious cruises in the bay. You will enjoy a welcome drink, check into your cabin and have lunch as the boat sails slowly towards Lan Ha Bay. You will pass the rock formation and discover the beauty of the bay through a range of fascinating excursions.
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
- Transfer and ferry to Halong Bay (without guide)
- Welcome drink on board boat
- Overnight hotel stay
Please note:
- This itinerary will be changed to suit weather conditions and boat availability.
- English-speaking guide to be shared on the boat only.
DAY 6: LAN HA BAY - HANOI - HUE
You will sail across the bay while having breakfast, passing several rocks and islets, caves and fish-farming villages.
- Light breakfast and brunch included
- Sunrise Tai Chi session
- Transfer and ferry to Hanoi
- Flight to Hue
- Night in Hue
DAY 7: HUE
Discover Hue, the cultural heart of Vietnam, where imperial history comes alive amidst ancient citadels, royal tombs, and pagodas. As you wander through the Perfume River, Hue invites you to immerse yourself in its regal past and witness the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
- Breakfast included
- Free time to explore Hue
- 'Discover the Royal Charm of Hue' available as optional excursions (at an additional cost)
- Night in Hue
Day 8 : Hue – Danang – Hoi An
Drive along one of Vietnam's most scenic highways to Hoi An, stopping at An Bằng village where residents have built sumptuous and elaborate tombs for their ancestors. Cross the Hai Van Pass and gaze at superb panoramas of the central coast and Lang Co beach.
- Breakfast included
- Transfer to Hoi An
- Visit to a small fishing village, also known as the “Town of Ghosts”
- Overnight hotel stay
DAY 9: HOI AN
In the morning, see a traditional performance of Cham dancers and visit a group of ruined Hindu Cham temples and remains in the My Son Valley - a Unesco World Heritage site.
Explore Hoi An on a walking tour around the town and its wonderful port. Follow the narrow streets lined with houses of Chinese, Japanese, French and European architecture. You will discover the 400-year-old Japanese Bridge, the Phuc Kien Meeting Hall and many other local treasures.
- Breakfast included
- Visit to My Son Sanctuary, Holy Land of Champa Kingdom
- Performance of Cham dancers
- Visit a group of ruined Hindu Cham temples and remains in the My Son Valley
- Afternoon walking tour of Hoi An
- Overnight hotel stay
Day 10: HOI AN
Enjoy some free time to explore Hoi An.
- Breakfast included
- 'Discover Hoi An's countryside by bike' available as an optional excursion (at an additional cost)
- Overnight hotel stay
DAY 11: HOI AN - DANANG - HO CHI MINH CITY
- Breakfast included
- Flight to Ho Chi Minh City
- Transfer to hotel
- Overnight hotel stay in Saigon
DAY 12: SAIGON
- Free time to explore the city on your own or take the excursion to the Mekong delta (optional excursions)
- Overnight hotel stay in Ho Chi Minh City
DAY 13: DEPARTURE
- Breakfast included
Departure time is 12 pm. It is possible to have the room until departure from the hotel at an additional cost and subject to availability (please contact us upon arrival in Hanoi if you wish to reserve the room for late departure).
15-night tour
DAYS 1 - 10: Similar itinerary to the 12-night tour.
- Breakfast
- Transfer (without guide) to Danang Airport, then take a flight to Phu Quoc Island.
- Upon arrival at the airport, the hotel shuttle transfers you to the hotel
- Overnight hotel stay
DAY 12 & DAY 13: PHU QUOC
- Breakfast
- Enjoy two days completely free to relax, sunbathe or read a book!
- Overnight hotel stays
DAY 14: PHU QUOC - SAIGON
- Breakfast
- Shared transfer back to the airport
- Fly from Phu Quoc to Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon)
- Upon arrival at Ho Chi Minh City's Tan Son Nhat airport, transfer to your hotel in the city centre with your driver (without guide)
- Overnight hotel stay
DAY 15. SAIGON
- Breakfast
- Free time to explore the city at your own pace
- Overnight hotel stay
DAY 16: SAIGON
- Breakfast
- Free time to relax until unguided transfer to the airport for your return flight
- Check out time is 12:00pm (it's possible to have the room until your departure from the hotel with an additional cost – subject to availability – please contact us on the spot from your arrival in Hanoi if you wish to reserve the room of late check-out)
18-night tour
DAY 11: DANANG - FLIGHT TO PHU QUOC
- Breakfast
- Transfer to Danang Airport (without a guide), then take a flight to the island of Phu Quoc
- Overnight hotel stay
DAY 12 – 16: PHU QUOC
- Breakfast
- Enjoy 5 days completely free to relax, sunbathe and read a book!
- Overnight hotel stays
DAY 17: PHU QUOC - SAIGON
- Breakfast
- Transfer back to the airport. Fly from Phu Quoc to Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon). Situated on the Saigon River, Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as everyone calls it, is Vietnam's main port and largest city, and still survives in wide city centre avenues flanked by immaculate colonials and hidden charms.
- On arrival at Ho Chi Minh City's Tan Son Nhat airport, transfer to your hotel in the city centre with your driver (without guide)
- Overnight hotel stay
DAY 18: SAIGON
- Breakfast
- Free time to explore the city at your own pace
- Overnight hotel stay
DAY 19: SAIGON
- Breakfast
- Free time to relax until unguided transfer to the airport for your return flight.
- Check out time is 12:00pm (it's possible to have the room until your departure from the hotel with an additional cost – subject to availability – please contact us on the spot from your arrival in Hanoi if you wish to reserve the room of late check-out)
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 without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Hand-picked just for you
For the ultimate in comfort, you'll be staying in standard accommodation at the following hotels:
Hanoi: Rue d'Amour 4*
Cat Ba: Hotel Perle d'Orient 5*
Ha Long: La Regina Grand 5* / ROH Cabin
Hoi An: Legacy Hoian 4*
Hue: Senna Hue 5*
Ho Chi Minh: Silverland Jolie 4*
Phu Quoc: Chen Sea 5*
Hotels listed in the programme. If these are not available, accommodation in hotels of a similar category
Maximum room capacity is 3 adults + 1 baby. Single rooms are not available;
Your dining choices
Throughout your tour, you will enjoy meals as per the itinerary.
Included extras —
Complimentary 1GB of mobile data
Stay connected on your travels with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your complimentary eSIM and stay connected wherever you go. Share your hotspot, keep in touch with home, and explore without worrying about roaming charges. Check that your phone is eSIM compatible here.
Optional excursions —
Discover Hanoi by Jeep (minimum 2 people)
Your guide will meet you at your hotel and give you a brief introduction – telling you everything you need to know to make the most of your trip. Then, embark on the journey. Look forward to:
A stroll through the narrow streets:
We'll walk through a maze of alleyways known ONLY to locals, make contact with people and discover behind-the-scenes stories.
French Quarter and Old Quarter:
Hanoi is nicknamed ‘Little Paris’ because, in the late 1800s, the French razed old Vietnamese buildings and replaced them with stately French-style houses. Our jeep will take you through the leafy boulevards of Indochina's capital, where you can see the influence of French architecture. The embassy quarter, Hanoi Opera House, Long Bien Bridge and other Hanoi landmarks will be passed.
The Great Western Lake:
Lac de l'Ouest, Hanoi's largest lake, is known as the city's ‘air conditioner’. Because of the lake's unique ‘Feng Shui’ location, dozens of spiritual sites have been created around it. Our experienced guide will explain everything and take you around the city.
Not only do we take you on an exciting journey through Hanoi's traffic, but we also introduce you to Hanoi's traditional cuisine. ‘SAVE YOUR HUNGER VENTURE’, please (vegan and vegetarian options are available).
Duration: Half day (08:00 - 12:00)
Includes: Transport (pick-up and drop-off), local guide and Gaz69/US Jeep driver, food and drink.
The royal charm of Hue
Discover Hue, the former imperial capital with magnificent architecture in its citadel, palaces, royal tombs, garden houses, pagodas and temples, built during the Nguyen dynasty on the banks of the Perfume River.
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.
Explore the Mekong Delta (Ben Tre province – min 2 people)
Escape the urban excitement with an exclusive day exploring the vast rice paddies and colourful fruit farms at Ben Tre, the gateway to the Mekong Delta. Between a cruise on a traditional boat, meetings with the locals and a visit to a riverside market, this day will immerse you in the local life of this province
Please note: VPG reserves the right to cancel any booking that does not comply (or pay a supplement).
Snorkelling and sunset barbecue dinner on the islet of Phu Quoc
Head out to sea for an afternoon of sun and snorkelling.
Further information about your excursion:
Itinerary:
- Departing from your hotel, you'll travel by boat to Buom Island and the islets of May Rut.
- There, you can explore the colourful and diverse marine life with a variety of corals and fish while swimming and snorkeling.
- If you wish, you can also relax with a refreshing cocktail at the beach bar (own expense).
- A barbecue dinner will be served on the islet before returning to port and transferring to your hotel.
Please note:
- Depending on weather conditions, the choice of islands may change.
- Nautical activities require all participants to know how to swim perfectly. They must be comfortable in the water and able to cope with occasional currents.
- VPG reserves the right to cancel any booking that does not comply (or pay a supplement).
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.
