15-Day Vietnam Exploration With Beach Relaxation
Time Travel: Everymonth
Trip duration: 15 days 14 nights
Destination:
Hanoi - Ha Long - Hue - Phong Nha/ Ke Bang - Hoi An - Da Nang - Sai Gon
Vehicle: Airplane, Touring car
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi, Vietnam (D)
Welcome to Hanoi! You’ve just landed in this vibrant city, and it’s time to acclimate to the tropical weather and the local time zone.
Day 2: Hanoi | Explore Culture, History, and Cuisine (B, L)
Your exploration of Hanoi begins today, and it’s a journey that touches on various facets of this captivating city. First, you’ll visit the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh to pay your respects to Uncle Ho. Following that, embark on a culinary adventure in the Old Quarter. As you delve deeper into its charming alleyways, a local insider will be your guide, helping you discover hidden gems.
Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh
After a satisfying lunch, you’ll get a glimpse into the rich and diverse lifestyles of ethnic minority groups at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Then, immerse yourself in the culture and history of Hanoi with a visit to the Temple of Literature. Along the way, you’ll pick up practical skills such as how to identify the best spot for egg coffee, how to choose the freshest mangoes, and even how to customize your Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich) fillings. Of course, you won’t leave without learning the art of capturing the perfect Pho photo for your Instagram!
Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay | Beautiful Days in Halong Bay (B,L)
After breakfast, you’ll take a shuttle transfer to Halong Bay and board your cruise. Your Halong Bay adventure will introduce you to the wonders of Cua Van Fishing Village, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, Me Cung Caves, Virgin Cave, Surprise Cave, and enchanting islets like Flight Cock Islet, Human Head Islet, and Toad Islet, among others (itinerary may vary depending on your cruise).
Surprise Cave | Sung Sot Cave
In the evening, your cruise will anchor in a tranquil, less-crowded area, allowing you to sleep under the starry night sky.
Day 4: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Hue (B)
Your memorable cruise concludes around noon with a delicious brunch. You’ll then meet your tour guide and driver at the pier, heading to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Hue. After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Day 5: Hue | Citadel, Palace, and Lagoon Fishing Ride (B,L)
Today, you’ll immerse yourself in the elegance of the ancient city of Hue. Your journey begins with a visit to Dong Ba Market, followed by exploration of the Imperial City and Royal Palace. Afterward, hop on a motorbike for an adventurous ride to the picturesque Tam Giang Lagoon. As the sun sets, you’ll return to Hue, having witnessed its beauty in a whole new light.
Day 6: Hue – Dong Hoi | Exploring Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (B,L)
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
After breakfast, your private tour guide and driver will take you to Quang Binh, a region blessed with lush forests, serene seas, winding rivers, and breathtaking coastlines. Along the way, you’ll visit significant sites from the American Wars, including the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), Ben Hai River, and Hien Luong Bridge.
In the afternoon, you’ll embark on a boat journey along the Son River to explore the wonders of Phong Nha (“Wet Cave”) and Tien Son (“Dry Cave”), both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For a truly freeing experience, consider trekking in the national park.
Day 7: Dong Hoi – Hue | Kayaking and Caving Adventure (B,L)
Start your day with an invigorating kayaking excursion on the Chay River. Continue your journey to explore Thien Duong (“Paradise Cave”), the longest dry cave in Asia. Afterward, you’ll be transferred back to Quang Binh, enjoying lunch on the way as you return to Hue.
Day 8: Hue – Hoi An (B)
After breakfast, hit the road to Hoi An, with a picturesque stop at Hai Van Pass for some fantastic photo opportunities. Upon arrival in Hoi An in the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore and unwind at your leisure.
Day 9: Hoi An | Fun Cooking Experience (B,L)
Today, immerse yourself in the cultural charm of Hoi An. Your tour guide will lead you to key sites such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Fujian Assembly Hall, and Old House of Tan Ky.
Japanese Covered Bridge – Hoi An
Enjoy a simple lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the Chen Family Chapel. Later, prepare for a delightful cooking session outside the ancient town at Hai Scout Café, led by a chef from Red Bridge Restaurant.
Day 10: Hoi An – Danang – Ho Chi Minh City (B,L)
Enjoy some leisure time in Hoi An before catching your flight to Ho Chi Minh City via Danang. After checking in, the evening is yours to relax and explore at your own pace.
Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City | Unveiling the Mekong (B,L)
Embark on a journey to My Tho, a bustling town in the Mekong Delta, just two hours away from Ho Chi Minh City. Along the way, your tour guide will provide insights into the life of this unique region.
Upon arrival, hop on a traditional sampan boat, expertly navigated by a local fisherman who knows how to maneuver through the canals. Visit local workshops to witness the craftsmanship of coconut candy, rice wine, and rice paper, all of which you used to make spring rolls a few days ago. Savor seasonal fruits fresh from the orchard, and engage in a heartfelt conversation with the garden host, learning about their philosophy of life.
Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City – Beach break away (Nha Trang/Mui Ne/Phu Quoc) | Discover Saigon (B)
Embark on a half-day exploration to discover the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City, including the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Old Central Post Office. After lunch, transfer to the beach breakaway, where you’ll spend the next few days relaxing on its pristine beaches.
Days 13-15: Beach – Departure from Ho Chi Minh City
Relish the final days of your exotic vacation on the beach (Nha Trang/Mui Ne/Phu Quoc) before your journey concludes. On the last day, back to Ho Chi Minh City for your onward flight home.
