20-Day Vietnam Tour: Hanoi to Mekong Delta Adventure & Halong Bay Cruise

Morning of Scholars: Step back in time at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university. Stroll through peaceful courtyards, admire the ancient stone steles bearing the names of scholars, and feel the weight of a thousand years of intellectual history.

A Sobering Look at History: Spend a reflective hour at the infamous Hoa Lo Prison Museum (Hanoi Hilton), gaining a deep, moving understanding of the Vietnamese struggle and American pilot experiences.

French Elegance: After lunch, wander through the grand French Quarter, a "Little Paris" of tree-lined boulevards and imposing colonial architecture. Visit the tranquil grounds of the Ho Chi Minh Complex, viewing the Presidential Palace and the unique One-Pillar Pagoda.

The Heart-Stopping Thrill of Train Street: Experience the adrenaline rush as you visit the legendary Hanoi Train Street. Relax at a trackside café, savouring a local drink, and—if luck is on your side—witness a roaring train pass mere inches from your seat!

A Sensory Feast in the Old Quarter: Awaken your senses with a leisurely stroll through the Hanoi Old Quarter. Explore the 36 guild streets, inhaling the aromas of street food, witnessing the vibrant daily life, and admiring the iconic tube houses.

The Enchanting Finale: Conclude your day with the unique, centuries-old art form of a Water Puppet Show, where daily life and legends dance gracefully on water, accompanied by traditional music.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Entrance Fees, Water Puppet Show.

The Scenic Escape: Depart Hanoi at 8:00 AM, beginning a comfortable 3.5-hour private transfer toward the tranquility of Mai Chau.

Panoramic Views that Steal Your Breath: Stop at the Thung Khe Pass summit, where you’ll be rewarded with magnificent, sweeping panoramic views of the entire Mai Chau valley below—a perfect spot for photography and reflection.

Warm White Thai Welcome: Arrive at Mai Hich, where your host prepares a delicious lunch of authentic local dishes. In the afternoon, explore Mai Hich village by bike (optional) or on foot. Cycle past stunning landscapes where villages, rice fields, mountains, and streams merge in perfect harmony.

Your Luxurious Mountain Retreat: Check in to the incomparable Avana Retreat (Bauhinia Mountain Suite Villa), a sanctuary nestled deep in the mountains, offering unparalleled serenity and comfort.

Included: Lunch, Dinner, Transportation, Cycling, White Thai Community Immersion.

Morning of Leisure: The morning is yours to fully indulge in the world-class facilities of the Avana Retreat. Relax by the infinity pool, join an optional yoga or cooking class, or simply savor the peace of your private mountain suite.

Afternoon Trekking Revelation: After a short transfer, embark on a gentle 5-6 km walk through the picturesque Xom Bang Valley, home to the Thai ethnic group. You’ll be warmly welcomed into a local home, experiencing their rich traditions and genuine hospitality firsthand.

The Rice Bowl: Continue through the peaceful, rice-farming villages of Ban Luong and Xom Vanh, appreciating the stunning scenery. Your walk concludes in Cun Pheo, known as the 'rice bowl' of Mai Chau, before your private return transfer.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Guided Trekking.

Journey to the Limestone Karsts: After a luxurious breakfast, depart Mai Chau for the 4-hour scenic drive to Ninh Binh, often hailed as “Halong Bay on land.”

Hidden History Unearthed: Upon arrival and check-in to the beautiful Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh, take a journey back in time to an ancient 12th-century Thanh Nguyen Temple. Nestled away from mass tourism, this temple pays homage to the revered Zen Master Nguyen Minh Khong and preserves precious ancient relics.

The Art of Silk: Later, visit a serene embroidery village. Join an intimate embroidery course guided by the talented local craftswoman, Mrs. Lam, who will proudly share the techniques of her traditional craft, allowing you to practice like a true artisan.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Entrance Fees, Embroidery Workshop.

Active Immersion (Optional Thrill): Choose your adventure: an exhilarating 10-20 km bike ride along the tranquil dyke roads, offering stunning, cinematic views of the river and towering limestone mountains, or enjoy the ride as a scooter passenger.

Traditional Harmony: Cycle (or drive) to Thung La Temple and be captivated by a special performance of traditional Vietnamese musical instruments, integral to the spiritual life of the locals.

The Silent Sampan Ride: In the afternoon, board a traditional sampan boat for a serene, intimate trip through the breathtaking Van Long Nature Reserve (Ramsar Site). Glide amidst dramatic limestone mountains and, if luck is on your side, catch a sight of rare white monkeys and egrets perched on the cliffs—a truly magical, silent experience.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Boat Trip, Cycling/Scooter Option, Traditional Music Show.

Red River Delta Views: Enjoy a relaxing morning before your private transfer back to Hanoi. The drive offers scenic views of the vibrant Red River Delta agricultural life.

Prepare for the Bay: Check back into the elegant Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel, giving you the evening to relax and prepare for the highlight of your journey: the legendary Halong Bay cruise.

Included: Breakfast, Transportation

The Scenic Journey: Your driver picks you up for the seamless 2.5-hour transfer to Tuan Chau Port.

Welcome Aboard Orchid Cruises: Step onto the Orchid Classic Cruise, your luxurious floating sanctuary. Enjoy welcome drinks and a briefing before savoring a delicious fusion lunch as the ship sails into the mesmerizing seascape of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay.

Kayak into Silence: Head to the famed Dark and Bright Cave or Ba Trai Dao Islets. Board a kayak and paddle into the heart of the bay, gliding through stunning tunnels and into silent, hidden lagoons, feeling the profound serenity of nature.

Sunset & Senses: The cruise anchors overnight in the tranquil Tra Bau area. Join a fun cooking demonstration and enjoy Happy Hour as the sun casts a magnificent, fiery glow over the Gulf of Tonkin.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Luxury Cruise, Kayaking, Cooking Demonstration.

Accommodation: Orchid Classic Cruise (Suite Balcony Cabin)

Sunrise Tai Chi: Start your day with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck, greeting the sunrise amidst the towering karsts—a moment of pure Zen.

Explore Viet Hai Village: Transfer to a day boat and arrive at the rural Viet Hai village. Experience the true rhythm of island life with a bicycle ride through rainforests, tunnels, and lush rice fields, stopping to explore an ancient local house.

Secluded Oasis: After lunch on the day boat, cruise to Ba Men Temple, a serene spot perfect for scenic kayaking or relaxing on a pristine sandy beach, enjoying the secluded beauty of Lan Ha Bay.

A Romantic Evening: Return to the main cruise ship. As night falls, indulge in an intimate, romantic Fusion Dinner, crafted from the freshest ingredients and served in a sophisticated setting. Afterward, try your hand at squid fishing under the stars.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tai Chi, Cycling on Cat Ba Island, Kayaking.

Cave of Wonders: After Tai Chi and breakfast, take a journey to Trung Trang Cave, nestled deep in Cat Ba National Park. Marvel at the unique stalactites and the captivating geological beauty shaped over millions of years.

Brunch and Farewell: Return to the ship for a delightful brunch as you cruise back to the mainland. Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina and meet your private driver for the seamless transfer back to Hanoi.

Included: Breakfast, Brunch, Cave Entrance, Tai Chi, Transportation.

Accommodation: Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel (Grand Deluxe Room)

The Seamless Transition: Enjoy a final breakfast in Hanoi before a private transfer to Noi Bai Airport for your morning flight to Hue, the former Imperial Capital.

Southern Welcome: Upon arrival at Phu Bai Airport (HUI), your local Hue guide greets you for the transfer to your hotel, the elegant Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel.

Unveiling the Imperial Citadel: In the afternoon, step into the grandeur of the past at the Hue Citadel. Explore the three concentric cities—Kinh Thanh, Hoang Thanh (Imperial City), and the Forbidden City (Cam Thanh)—walking through the magnificent South Gate and the Palace of Supreme Harmony. Feel the majesty of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Included: Breakfast, Flight (HAN-HUI), Entrance Fees.

Architectural Masterpiece: Start the day at the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, a stunning architectural marvel that perfectly harmonizes nature and imperial design.

Perfume River Boat Trip: Board a traditional boat for a peaceful cruise along the legendary Huong River (Perfume River), admiring the picturesque landscapes.

Thuy Bieu Village Immersion: Disembark at Thuy Bieu Village, famous for its divine grapefruit trees. Cycle leisurely under the canopy of fruit trees, inhaling their sweet aroma. Visit an ancient garden house and interact with villagers, capturing the tranquil, authentic rural life of Hue.

The Spiritual Highlight: Conclude the day at the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue's spiritual symbol, renowned for its majestic octagonal tower and commanding view over the Perfume River.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Boat Trip, Cycling, Entrance Fees.

The Scenic Railway Adventure: Your driver will take you to Hue train station for one of the world's most breathtaking rail journeys: the day train to Da Nang.

A Cinematic Crossing: For three hours, be mesmerized by the dramatic coastal scenery. The train climbs and descends the legendary Hai Van Pass, offering unparalleled views of the turquoise Lang Co Bay and rugged coastline. Enjoy a special 10-minute stop at Lang Co Station to capture stunning photos of the panorama.

Hoi An Sanctuary: Arrive at Da Nang, where you are met and transferred to Hoi An, checking into the luxurious Allegro Hoian - A Little Luxury Hotel & Spa.

Included: Breakfast, Transportation, Train Ticket (Hue-Da Nang).

Timeless Trading Port: Dedicate the day to exploring Hoi An's Ancient Town, a perfectly preserved UNESCO site and former trading port frozen in time between the 15th and 19th centuries.

Iconic Landmarks: Visit the city’s symbol, the 17th-century Japanese Covered Bridge. Then, explore the Phung Hung House, meeting a family member who represents the eighth generation to live in this historic home, sharing its unique heritage and the tale of its cultural exchange.

Unraveling History: Explore the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture, viewing artifacts from the Sa Huynh and Champa cultures, learning about the folk conceptions like the “eyes” on the doors of ancient houses.

A Taste of Daily Life: Conclude your day with a sensory journey through the bustling Hoi An Center Market, situated on the riverside. Witness the local daily life and the vibrant display of fresh produce, spices, and seafood—a true local immersion.

Included: Breakfast, Entrance Fees.

he Southern Metropolis Awaits: Your morning begins with a private transfer to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), the dynamic, ever-pulsating economic heart of Vietnam.

Urban Sophistication: Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your Saigon guide and transferred to the exquisitely stylish The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel, perfectly located in District 1.

Leisure in Saigon: The afternoon is free for you to explore the modern energy of the city, shop, or simply relax and prepare for the next phase of your adventure.

Included: Breakfast, Flight (DAD-SGN), Transportation.

A Look at Resilience: At 8:00 AM, depart for a powerful historical journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

The Underground City: Explore this immense, 250km-long network of narrow tunnels—a real underground city where the Viet Cong lived and fought. You will have the opportunity to enter and crawl through select sections of the tunnels, experiencing firsthand the incredible resourcefulness and resilience of the Vietnamese people.

Optional Thrill: For those seeking extra adventure, an optional shooting range experience is available (not included) to try real gun firing under supervision.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Entrance Fees.

Journey to the Waterways: Enjoy a scenic, 3-hour drive through lush green fields and countryside villages to Cai Be.

Bike and Gourmet Lunch: Begin your Delta experience at Phu An Jetty with a picturesque bicycle ride through the charming countryside, culminating in a beautiful lunch at the stunning, colonial-style Le Longanier Restaurant, nestled by the river.

Board the Song Xanh Sampan: Board the intimate Song Xanh Sampan—your private floating home for the next two nights. Cruise the bustling waterways, observing life along the riverbanks and stopping to visit local cottage industries (rice, coconut).

Sa Dec & Romantic Dinner: Arrive in Sa Dec to explore the vibrant outdoor market and the historic home of the real-life inspiration for Marguerite Duras's novel "The Lover." Conclude the day with a magical candlelit dinner in this enchanting, historic house.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Private Sampan Cruise, Cycling, Entrance Fees.

Accommodation: Song Xanh Cruise - 3D2N

Intimate Cruising: After breakfast on board, the sampan navigates the narrow, intimate waterways toward Vinh Long, passing unique stilt houses. Take a leisurely stroll in Cai Tau Ha, visiting a traditional herbal medicine temple or watching blacksmiths at work.

Clay Pots and Culture: After lunch on board, explore a fascinating clay pot factory in Vinh Long. Later, stop at a small village to learn more about the local way of life, including a visit to a colorful Cao Dai temple.

Dinner on the River: Enjoy a final, delicious dinner on board as the Song Xanh cruises gently toward the Hau River, the air filled with the quiet magic of the Delta night.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Sampan Cruising, Shore Excursions.

The Delta's Soul: Rise early (around 6:30 AM) to witness the soul of the Mekong—the renowned Cai Rang Floating Market. Enjoy breakfast on board as the Song Xanh weaves among local barges brimming with fresh produce. Capture stunning shots of this unique, vibrant spectacle!

Disembarkation & Return: Conclude your unforgettable cruise as you disembark at the Victoria Can Tho private jetty. Your driver will meet you for the comfortable 4-hour private transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Included: Breakfast, Sampan Cruising, Transportation.

Accommodation: The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel (Saigon Room)

Farewell Vietnam: Enjoy a final Vietnamese breakfast. Your private driver will pick you up from The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel and ensure a smooth transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) for your onward flight, carrying a wealth of legendary memories.

Included: Breakfast, Transportation.