We Love —
- Exploring the vibrant streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, with its lively markets and centuries-old temples, offers an authentic glimpse into the city's rich heritage.
- Cruising through Ha Long Bay’s towering limestone karsts, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reveals stunning, dramatic seascapes that are a photographer’s paradise.
- Unwinding on the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc Island, with its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Customer reviews —
You'll explore Vietnam's top tourist destinations, and your journey will culminate with a relaxing seaside experience on Phu Quoc Island, where you can witness stunning sunsets. We've carefully chosen delightful boutique hotels and luxurious 5-star hotels to ensure your trip is unforgettable
Your itinerary in brief —
Embark on an enriching 12, 15 or 17 night journey through Vietnam, a country brimming with rich history, stunning landscapes, and a dynamic cultural tapestry.
egin in the capital, Hanoi, where the ancient charm of the Old Quarter intertwines with the energy of its bustling streets. From there, venture to the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, cruising through towering limestone karsts, before exploring the historical heart of Hue, where ancient temples and imperial palaces reveal the city's royal past.
Continue your adventure south to Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant metropolis blending modernity with historical significance, and finally unwind on the idyllic shores of Phu Quoc Island. This tropical haven offers pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, providing the perfect conclusion to a journey rich in both culture and natural beauty.
Choose the length of stay that suits you best:
12 night tour:
- Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
- Day 2: Hanoi
- Day 3: Hanoi - Halong Bay
- Day 4: Ha Long Bay - Hanoi - Hue
- Day 5: Hue - free time
- Day 6: Hue - Danang - Hoi An
- Day 7: Hoi An - My Son sanctuary - Hoi An old town
- Day 8: Hoi An - Danang - Phu Quoc
- Days 9 & 10: Phu Quoc Island
- Day 11: Phu Quoc - Ho Chi Minh
- Day 12: Ho Chi Minh
- Day 13: Ho Chi Minh - Departure
15 night tour:
- Days 1 - 10: Identical to the 12-night tour
- Days 11 - 13: Phu Quoc
- Day 14: Phu Quoc - Ho Chi Minh
- Day 15: Ho Chi Minh
- Day 16: Ho Chi Minh - Departure
17 night tour:
- Days 1 - 10: Identical to the 12-night tour
- Days 11 - 15: Phu Quoc
- Day 16: Phu Quoc - Ho Chi Minh
- Day 17: Ho Chi Minh
- Day 18: Ho Chi Minh - Departure
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Your itinerary in detail —
Days 1-3
DAY 1: ARRIVAL
- Touch down at Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), meet your guide and transfer to your hotel in the city centre.
- There, you will have time to freshen up and rest after your long journey.
Overnight stay in Hanoi in the hotel of your chosen category.
DAY 2: HANOI (city tour and street food)
- Breakfast at the hotel. You will visit the Ho Chi Minh complex (exterior), which is dedicated to the founder of the nation and affectionately nicknamed "Uncle Ho" by the Vietnamese.
- You'll visit the one-pillar pagoda, built in 1049 from wood on a single stone column and meant to resemble a lotus flower, a symbol of purity. You will then visit the Tran-Quoc pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, located on the banks of the West Lake.
- Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university.
- This walk will take you through the narrow streets of the old town, known for its "36 streets with 36 goods". During your walk, you can sample all the Vietnamese specialities such as Banh Cuon (the traditional Vietnamese rice cake) or Banh Mi (the famous Vietnamese sandwich). Then stop off at the "bia hoi" (local beer) crossroads, near Ta Hien Street, and sample the Vietnamese beer so popular with locals and travellers alike.
- Visit a pho restaurant where you can choose between pho noodle soup and pho tron (pho mixed with chicken without soup).
- Enjoy a walk along Hoan Kiem Lake before enjoying a delicious dessert in a Vietnamese ice cream parlour. This is a popular weekend spot for locals to enjoy the best ice creams with their families.
Overnight stay in Hanoi in the hotel of your chosen category.
DAY 3: HANOI - HA LONG BAY (cruise and overnight on board)
- Breakfast at your hotel. Between 7.30 and 7.45 am, your driver will pick you up in the lobby of your hotel.
- You'll travel in a comfortable limousine shuttle (without guide) to Ha Long Bay, a World Heritage Site of outstanding natural beauty with 3,000 islands emerging from the clear emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.
- Arrival in Ha Long and boarding, accompanied by lunch on board.
- Cruise through the emerald waters between thousands of jagged islands and the incredible limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, with stops at spectacular caves where you can wander, contemplate the impressive centuries-old formations or simply relax on board.
Overnight stay on board.
Please note:
- Itineraries are subject to change depending on port authorities, cruise conditions or weather.
- An English-speaking in-house guide (not private) is available on the boat.
- Transfer from Hanoi - Ha Long - Hanoi is with the shipping company's shared shuttle (without guide).
Days 4-6
DAY 4: HUE
- Start the day with a demonstration of tai chi, which combines deep breathing and relaxation with slow, gentle movements.
- Breakfast consists of coffee, tea and pastries, served in a dining room overlooking the bay.
- Enjoy your breakfast in the fresh air of Ha Long Bay as the boat continues its tour of the bay, passing through the most beautiful and peaceful spots on the way to the pier.
- A shuttle from the boat company will take you back to Hanoi, before you take a private car to Hanoi airport for your flight to Hue.
- Meet your driver (without guide) and transfer to your hotel.
Overnight stay in Hue in the hotel of your chosen category.
DAY 5: HUE (free time)
- Breakfast at the hotel, free time to explore the city at your leisure or optional city tour at an additional cost.
Overnight stay in Hue in the hotel of your chosen category.
DAY 6: HUE - DANANG - HOI AN
- Breakfast at your hotel, followed by a morning at leisure. In the afternoon, meet at your hotel at 1.00 pm. You'll be driven to Hue without a guide.
- On the way to Hue, you will cross the Hai Van Pass, which offers magnificent views of the central coast and Lang Co beach - one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam - from its summit.
- Stop at An Bằng village in Hue - a small fishing village also known as the "city of spirits" or "land where the dead live". You will be amazed by a series of beautifully designed and elaborate tombs for your ancestors and even for family members who have not yet died.
- Arrive in Hoian around 5:00 pm, free time.
Overnight stay in Hoi An in the hotel of your chosen category.
Days 7-8
DAY 7: HOI AN
- After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel at around 8.009 am to take you to the My Son sanctuary, the sacred land of the Champa kingdom.
- Time permitting, you will visit a local fish market and then a village where the famous nuoc mam (fermented fish sauce) is made.
- On arrival, a good time to watch the traditional performance of Cham dancers as an introduction to their culture.
- Visit a series of ruined Cham Hindu temples and remains in the My Son Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Days 9-13
- Enjoy a few delicious days completely at leisure, free to relax, sunbathe or read a book.
- As an optional extra (not included, incurs extra charge), you could opt to enjoy a half day of snorkelling with dinner at sunset during a boat trip to Buom Island and the islets of May Rut.
Overnight stays on Phu Quoc Island in the hotel of your chosen category.
DAYS 11, 14 or 16 (depending on the package chosen): PHU QUOC - HO CHI MINH
- After breakfast, the hotel shuttle will take you back to the airport. You take an early flight from Phu Quoc to Ho Chi Minh City.
- 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 lives on in the wide avenues of the city centre.
- On arrival at Ho Chi Minh City's Tan Son Nhat airport, you will be met by a local guide and taken to your hotel in the city centre.
- The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure.
Overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh in the hotel of your chosen category.
DAYS 12, 15 or 17 (depending on the package chosen): HO CHI MINH (free time)
- Breakfast at the hotel, before enjoying free time.
- Explore the city at your leisure or take an optional tour of the city and the Cu Chi tunnels (not included, incurs extra charge) or take an off-the-beaten-track bicycle ride in the Mekong Delta (not included, incurs extra charge).
Overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh in the hotel of your chosen category.
DAYS 13, 16 or 18 (depending on the package chosen): HO CHI MINH - DEPARTURE
- Enjoy free time until your driver transfers you to Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for your departure (check-out time at approximately midday).
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 —
Hand-picked just for you
Maximum room capacity
At each of your stops, you will be staying in comfortable rooms in thoughtfully chosen 4* and 5* hotels.
Your 4* and 5* hotels during the tour:
- Hanoi: Peridot Gallery 4*
- Ha Long Bay: La Regina Grand or Legend 5*
- Hue: Spatel d'Anam 4*
- Hoi An: Little Residence or Little Gems 4*
- Phu Quoc: Chen Sea Resort 5*
- Ho Chi Minh City: Silverland Jolie 4*
Your 5* hotels and boutique hotels during the tour:
- Hanoi: Melia Hotel 5*
- Ha Long Bay: Indochine Cruise 5*
- Hue: Pilgrimage Village Resort 5*
- Hoi An: Little Oasis 5*
- Phu Quoc: Chen Sea Resort 5*
- Ho Chi Minh City: Mai House 5*
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
No option for staying in a single room. The maximum room capacity is 3 adults or 3 adults + 1 baby.
Your dining choices
Throughout your tour, you will enjoy board as per the itinerary.
Your included extras & excursions —
Local English-speaking guide

Enjoy local English-speaking guides during your stay.
Optional extras & excursions —
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.
The Cu Chi tunnels and exploring Ho Chi Minh City on foot (min 2 people)

Discover the incredible Cu Chi Tunnels, originally dug as a base for guerrilla actions against the French and during the Indochina War.
Further information about your excursion:
This ingenious and incredible underground network was designed to protect Viet Cong guerrillas from French air and ground raids. Today, there are more than 200 kilometres of underground complexes containing warehouses, kitchens, hospitals, dormitories and even schools, once occupied by more than 10,000 people.
Itinerary:
- You will leave Ho Chi Minh City for a 1h30 drive north-west to the famous Cu Chi tunnels, passing through urbanised areas and lush countryside typical of southern Vietnam.
- There, you will visit the vast network of underground passages to gain an insight into the history of the tunnels, life in the tunnels and the tenacity and ingenuity of the Vietnamese during the fighting.
- In the afternoon, you will explore the city on foot, passing its famous monuments: City Hall, Saigon Opera House, Catinat Street "Dong Khoi Street", CIA building, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office and Reunification Palace.
- On the way, you can take a break at a local street café where Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau used to go. Another interesting stop is Maison Marou, where you can taste the best Vietnamese chocolate (at an extra cost) and learn about the history of this artisan chocolate maker in Vietnam.
- After a visit to the outside of the Musée des Beaux-Arts, a magnificent French building constructed in the late 1920s, you will make your way to an ancient street near the Ben Thanh market. To round off your day, you can stop off at one of the following bars (consumption on site at your own expense):
- Pasteur Street Brewing Company - where you can enjoy a specialty craft beer using the highest quality ingredients from Vietnam.
- Sky Deck on the Bitexco Tower - enjoy a panoramic view of the cityscape, followed by a traditional tea at the Villa Downtown Royal Antique.
- SH Garden Restaurant - a hidden restaurant at the top of an old flat for lunching on local specialities.
Please note: the Cu Chi tunnels have been widened in places for Western visitors, but they can still be dark, hot and claustrophobic inside, so please take this into account if you don't like enclosed spaces. If you want to stay above ground, many rooms are easily accessible with excavated areas to visit.
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
VPG reserves the right to cancel any booking that does not comply (or pay a supplement).
Mekong Delta off the beaten track by bike on Cai Thia island (minimum 2 people)

Discover Cai Thia, one of the largest fruit-growing areas in the Mekong Delta, located 2h30 from Ho Chi Minh City, in the province of Tien Giang.
Further information about your excursion:
Itinerary:
- On arrival, you'll hop on your bike for a 1.5-2 hour (4.5 mile) ride along quiet lanes around the beautiful, remote village of Hoa Loc.
- You'll have the chance to see traditional houses made of wood and palm leaves, learn how local farmers catch fish, or pick fruit using the ancient methods of the Mekong Delta.
- You'll stop at a local family's home, nestled in an orchard, to get an insight into the way of life in this region.
- You will continue your cruise to the islet of An Binh, in Vinh Long province, while enjoying a lunch of Mekong specialities. Later, you'll board a rowing boat and head off into the maze of small, tranquil canals.
- As you wander through the peaceful villages of the islet, you'll visit local workshops making coconut sweets or puffed rice...
- You'll return to the mainland where your car will be waiting for you for a 3-hour drive back to Ho-Chi-Minh City.
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 —
Hanoi
Nestled in the northern heart of Vietnam, Hanoi boasts a history that stretches over a millennium, making it a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern vitality. Its dynamic culture, picturesque landscapes, and warm hospitality invite exploration. Whether wandering through bustling streets or peaceful temples, Hanoi offers a remarkable journey into the soul of Vietnam.
Must-sees:
- The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the leader’s embalmed body rests, is a poignant tribute to Vietnam’s revolutionary history.
- The serene Hoan Kiem Lake, surrounded by temples and parks, offers a tranquil escape in the city's heart.
- The Temple of Literature, an ancient site of education, is a stunning example of Vietnamese architecture and heritage.
Culinary culture:
Hanoi is renowned for its culinary offerings, with street food playing a central role in the city’s vibrant food culture. Indulge in pho, a fragrant noodle soup, or enjoy the iconic banh mi, a fusion of French and Vietnamese ingredients. For a more authentic experience, seek out lesser-known dishes such as bun thang, a delicate noodle soup, or cha ca, a local fish dish. Eating here is an exploration of flavours, from spicy to savoury, ensuring an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
Dive deeper:
For those seeking a richer cultural experience, venture beyond the main tourist sites. Explore the lesser-known Museum of Ethnology, where diverse tribal cultures of Vietnam are beautifully displayed. Take a walk through the Old Quarter’s labyrinthine streets, where centuries-old architecture mingles with local craft shops. A boat trip to the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a scenic backdrop to Hanoi’s cultural and natural beauty.
Good to know:
The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). The city experiences a humid subtropical climate, with the best times to visit being between September and November, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Hanoi is well-connected by a comprehensive public transport system, but taxis and motorbike rentals are also convenient options for navigating the city.
Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc, an island paradise in the Gulf of Thailand, offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural authenticity. Once a quiet retreat, the island is now a vibrant destination for both relaxation and adventure. Lined with white sandy beaches and surrounded by lush tropical jungle, Phu Quoc invites exploration beyond its burgeoning tourist spots. Whether indulging in water sports, cycling through remote trails, or enjoying the peace of secluded beaches, the island promises a perfect escape.
Must-sees:
- Long Beach, with its tranquil waters and sunsets, remains one of the island's most stunning stretches of sand.
- The untouched beauty of Sao Beach provides a peaceful retreat, far from the bustling crowds.
- The Vinpearl Safari, a sprawling wildlife reserve, offers a glimpse into the island’s diverse ecosystem.
Culinary culture:
Phu Quoc’s cuisine is defined by its fresh, coastal ingredients, with nuoc mam (fish sauce) being a key element. Locally made and globally revered, this high-quality fish sauce is an essential flavour in the island’s dishes. Seafood lovers will delight in freshly caught fish, crab, and shrimp, often grilled or prepared with fragrant herbs. For a truly local experience, visit one of the many beachside restaurants for a dinner of grilled fish or a delicious bowl of pho. The island is also famous for its black pepper, which adds a distinct flavour to both dishes and souvenirs.
Dive deeper:
For those keen to explore further, Phu Quoc offers a range of off-the-beaten-path experiences. Explore the island’s lush jungles on foot or by motorcycle, discovering hidden waterfalls and remote fishing villages. Dive beneath the surface to explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, or take a boat tour to nearby islands. The island’s National Park is also home to a wealth of biodiversity, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Good to know:
The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the official currency. Phu Quoc enjoys a tropical climate, with the best time to visit being from November to March, when the weather is dry and mild. While tourism infrastructure is growing, there are still plenty of untouched areas. Public transport is limited, so renting a motorbike or using taxis is recommended for getting around the island.
Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is Vietnam’s bustling economic and cultural epicentre. A dynamic metropolis, it fuses modernity with a rich historical legacy. From towering skyscrapers to historic French colonial architecture, the city is a melting pot of influences. Its vibrant energy permeates the streets, offering an exciting destination for travellers seeking a mix of tradition and innovation.
Must-sees:
- The War Remnants Museum, a powerful historical site, offers an insightful look at Vietnam’s turbulent past.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, an iconic French colonial landmark, stands as a testament to the city’s architectural grandeur.
- The Ben Thanh Market is perfect for exploring local crafts, food, and souvenirs in a lively atmosphere.
Culinary culture:
Ho Chi Minh City’s food scene is as diverse as its history. With its street food culture thriving, visitors can sample everything from sizzling pho and banh mi to lesser-known delights like com tam (broken rice with grilled pork) and hu tieu (noodle soup). The city also offers a range of fusion dishes, where Vietnamese flavours meet international influences. Whether dining at a high-end restaurant or a roadside stall, food in Ho Chi Minh City is an essential experience.
Dive deeper:
For a more authentic exploration, venture into the city’s less touristy districts. Discover the Cholon, Saigon’s Chinatown, where you can stroll through bustling markets and sample Chinese-Vietnamese delicacies. Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a beautifully ornate temple steeped in local religious traditions. For a quiet retreat, explore the tranquil Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, one of the oldest zoos in the world, offering a glimpse into the city's history and natural beauty.
Good to know:
The currency used in Ho Chi Minh City is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April, when temperatures are comfortable. While public transport is limited, taxis and motorbikes are popular and easy to use. The city is also home to numerous international airports, making it a well-connected gateway to Southeast Asia.