Vietnam Grand Tour: 19-Day North to South Adventure & Con Dao Beach Retreat

Begin your historical deep dive at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university. Walk among the ancient courtyards and admire the unique "stone steles," honoring centuries of scholarly achievement. The afternoon is dedicated to reverence and reflection: view the Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum (outside) before enjoying a leisurely walk through the lush botanical gardens to the Presidential Palace and his simple house on stilts—a powerful contrast of power and simplicity. Conclude the day with the mesmerizing Water Puppet Show, a unique performance dating back to the 11th century, bringing rural Vietnamese life magically to the water stage.

• Experience: Historical reflection, appreciating the artistic mastery of Vietnamese traditional performance.

• Accommodation: Palago Boutique Hotel (Executive Room) or similar.

• Included: Breakfast (B), Guide, Private Transfer, Entrance Fees, Water Puppet Show.

Leave the city behind. Today, a scenic 3.5-hour drive transports you to the serene valley of Mai Chau. On the way, stop at a traditional Muong village for a glimpse into their daily routines. The real highlight is the breathtaking panoramic view from Thung Khe Pass, offering your first glimpse of Mai Chau's mosaic of green rice terraces. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch before an immersive afternoon. Take a bike ride (or a gentle walk) through the surrounding rice fields, exploring the authentic White Thai villages of Lac, Na Phon, and Poong Com. Engage with locals and witness the delicate craft of weaving firsthand.

• Experience: The soothing sight of emerald fields, physical connection with nature, and the genuine warmth of local communities.

• Accommodation: Mai Chau Valley View Hotel (Deluxe Valley View) or similar.

• Included: B, Lunch (L), Guide, Private Transfer, Bike.

Wake up to the fresh mountain air of Mai Chau before traveling to the quieter, more secluded Mai Hich village. This morning offers an even deeper level of immersion. Cycle (or walk) along peaceful trails, surrounded by streams and towering mountains. You'll be warmly welcomed into local homes for a cup of tea, providing a treasured moment of cross-cultural communication. After a hearty local lunch, we journey to Ninh Binh (approx. 3.5 hours). Check into your accommodation, ready for the wonders of the "Halong Bay on Land."

• Experience: The tranquility of rural life, forging small connections with friendly villagers.

• Accommodation: Lalita Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Room) or similar.

• Included: B, L, Guide, Private Transfer, Bike.

Prepare for a day of awe in Ninh Binh. Start with Tam Coc, famous as the "Halong Bay on land." You will glide silently on a private sampan boat for a ninety-minute cruise along the Ngo Dong River, passing directly through three natural caves carved into the limestone karsts. The landscape is a stunning symphony of towering rocks and green paddy fields. After this natural wonder, explore Bich Dong Pagoda, crossing a stone bridge to hike up to the cave pagoda, offering incredible countryside views. Conclude the history lesson at Hoa Lu, visiting the ancient temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le Dynasties—the kings who secured Vietnam's independence a thousand years ago.

• Experience: A feeling of serene discovery while floating through the mystical cave system, a sense of historical depth.

• Accommodation: Palago Boutique Hotel (Executive Room) or similar (Return to Hanoi).

• Included: B, L, Guide, Sampan Boat Trip, Entrance Fees, Private Transfer.

Your quintessential Vietnam Grand Tour moment awaits. Depart Hanoi and drive to Tuan Chau Marina. Board your luxurious cruise ship, greeted with a welcome drink and a brief orientation. As you savor a gourmet Vietnamese and international lunch, your Halong Bay cruise begins, sailing past the most famous islets (Incense Burner, Fighting Cock). The afternoon is pure adventure: enjoy kayaking near a floating pearl farm, getting up close to the jade-colored waters, followed by a dramatic exploration of the vast Sung Sot Cave (Surprising Cave). As evening falls, enjoy a Happy Hour on the sundeck and learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine during a cooking demonstration, before a deluxe dinner.

• Experience: Luxurious escape, the awe-inspiring sight of the colossal karst formations, and the tranquility of a night on the water.

• Accommodation: Mila Cruise (Deluxe Cabin) or similar.

• Included: B, L, Dinner (D), Shuttle Bus, Guide (on board), Entrance Fees, Kayaking, Cooking Class, Squid Fishing.

Start your day with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the dramatic bay—a moment of pure serenity. After breakfast, visit Titov Island, where you can relax on the beautiful sandy beach or hike to the summit for a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the bay. After brunch on board, disembark at Tuan Chau Marina and transfer directly back to Hanoi. From Hanoi, catch your flight to Da Nang, where you will be met and transferred to the enchanting, lantern-lit town of Hoi An.

• Experience: Serenity at sunrise, a feeling of conquest reaching the Titov summit, and anticipation for Central Vietnam’s charm.

• Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room) or similar.

• Included: B, L, Guide, Transfers, Flight (HAN-DAD).

Spend a full day exploring Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once a major South-East Asian trading port. Walk across the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, the city's iconic symbol. Discover the blend of cultures at the Fujian Assembly Hall and step back in time inside the perfectly preserved Quan Thang Ancient House. Conclude the cultural immersion at Tra Que farming village, famous for its organic aromatic herbs. Here, you'll learn about traditional cultivation methods and meet the local farmers—a lovely opportunity for authentic cultural interaction.

• Experience: Walking through a living history museum, inhaling the sweet aroma of the herb village, and the timeless beauty of the ancient architecture.

• Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room) or similar.

• Included: B, Guide, Private Transfer, Entrance Fees.

A half-day excursion takes you to the sacred valley of My Son Sanctuary, the former intellectual and religious center of the Champa Kingdom. Recognized as a World Culture Heritage site, you will explore the 70 ruined brick and stone temples, built between the 7th and 13th centuries. Your guide will illuminate the profound cultural and architectural values of this once-glorious civilization. Before departing, enjoy a traditional Champa dancing show, bringing the ancient kingdom's energy to life. Return to Hoi An in time for a leisurely afternoon to enjoy the town's famous tailor shops or riverside cafes.

• Experience: Spiritual reflection amidst the jungle ruins, admiration for the unique architecture of the Champa people.

• Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room) or similar.

• Included: B, L, Guide, Private Transfer, Entrance Fees.

Today is a visually spectacular travel day as we journey to Hue. Stop in Da Nang to visit the Cham Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Cham sculpture. The highlight is the drive over the spectacular Hai Van Pass ("Ocean Cloud Pass"). Stop at the summit to capture the breathtaking view where mountains meet the sea. Arrive in Hue, the ancient Imperial Capital. After lunch, visit the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue's most spiritual site, known for its magnificent octagon tower overlooking the Perfume River. Conclude the day exploring the massive Hue Citadel, walking through the meticulously preserved Imperial City and the gates of the Forbidden City.

• Experience: The thrill of conquest atop the Hai Van Pass, feeling the weight of history inside the magnificent Citadel.

• Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Double Room) or similar.

• Included: B, L, Guide, Private Transfer, Entrance Fees.

Start the day with a visit to the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, a masterpiece of traditional Vietnamese design that perfectly harmonizes architecture with the surrounding nature. Next, board a traditional dragon boat for a serene cruise along the Huong River (Perfume River) to Thuy Bieu Village. Here, you’ll take a bike ride through quiet lanes shaded by the village’s famous Thanh Tra grapefruit trees. You'll visit a centuries-old garden house and join a hands-on cooking class to master selected Hue specialties. After lunch, transfer to Hue Airport for your flight to the dynamic Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), marking your transition to the South.

• Experience: The relaxing scent of grapefruit blossoms, the deep satisfaction of mastering a new Vietnamese dish, and the anticipation of Saigon's vibrant energy.

• Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) or similar.

• Included: B, L, Guide, River Boat, Bike, Cooking Class, Transfers, Flight (HUI-SGN).

Dive headfirst into the vibrant energy of Saigon. Your day begins at the Independence Palace, where history unfolded in 1975, viewing the preserved 1960s/70s style rooms and the bunker basement. Enjoy a leisurely walk to the iconic colonial landmarks: the beautiful Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the stunning Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel. In the afternoon, a visit to the War Remnants Museum offers a powerful and necessary look at the Vietnam War. Conclude your city tour at the bustling, historic Ben Thanh Market, the perfect place to practice your bargaining skills and sample authentic street food.

• Experience: Confronting and understanding a pivotal moment in history, the electric atmosphere of the city.

• Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) or similar.

• Included: B, Guide, Private Transfer, Entrance Fees.

Today is dedicated to two powerful sites outside Saigon. First, journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a staggering 250km underground network where the Viet Cong lived and fought. You will have the unique and optional opportunity to crawl through a section of the tunnels—a truly immersive experience that brings the resilience of the past to life. In the afternoon, visit the brightly colored Cao Dai Temple near Tay Ninh. Caodaism is a unique fusion of various world religions, and you will have the chance to attend the midday mass, witnessing the fascinating spiritual harmony firsthand.

• Experience: A powerful sense of historical realism, and spiritual curiosity during the Cao Dai ceremony.

• Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) or similar.

• Included: B, L, Guide, Private Transfer, Entrance Fees.

Welcome to the Mekong Delta. Travel from Saigon to Cai Be, where life revolves around the water. Board a boat to witness the rhythm of this legendary river, visiting canals lined with lush fruit orchards. Stop at traditional craft workshops to see how rice popcorn, coconut caramel, and rice cakes are made. Then, bike or walk on peaceful village paths to the beautiful Phu Chau pagoda. The ultimate delight: tasting delicious, local fruits while gently rowing a small boat through the shaded, narrow canals. Later, transfer to Can Tho, the capital of the Mekong Delta, for the evening.

• Experience: Closeness to nature, sensory delight from local fruits, and a feeling of peace as you navigate the canals.

• Accommodation: Ninh Kieu Riverside Hotel (Executive Superior River View) or similar.

• Included: B, L, Guide, Boat Trip, Bike, Private Transfer.

Wake up early for an unforgettable experience: a boat trip to Cai Rang floating market, the largest and most lively market in the Mekong Delta. Witness hundreds of colorful sampans packed with goods, creating a chaotic yet mesmerizing spectacle of river commerce. After the market, continue through the quieter canals and visit a thriving fruit garden. Before heading back to Saigon, stop at the beautiful Binh Thuy ancient house, famous as a filming location for "The Lover." Arrive back in Saigon in the late afternoon, concluding your mainland tour.

• Experience: The bustling, bubbling atmosphere of the floating market, a final moment of southern charm.

• Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) or similar.

• Included: B, L, Guide, Boat Trip, Private Transfer, Entrance Fees.

The grand finale of your Vietnam Grand Tour is here. Enjoy a relaxing morning before being transferred to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your flight to Con Dao Island. Upon arrival at this pristine, remote archipelago, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to the elegant Poulo Condor Boutique Resort & Spa. Check in and spend the rest of the day unwinding in preparation for your exclusive Con Dao beach retreat. Feel the sense of complete escape the moment you arrive.

• Experience: The sweet relief of relaxation, arriving at an exclusive, untouched beach paradise.

• Accommodation: Poulo Condor Boutique Resort & Spa (Junior Suite Room) or similar.

• Included: B, Private Transfer, Flight (SGN-VCS).

These two days are completely yours to design. Con Dao is celebrated for having some of the most beautiful and preserved beaches in Vietnam. Choose your adventure:

• Explore: Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters, discovering vibrant coral reefs.

• Relax: Simply lounge by the infinity pool or on the quiet white sands of Bai Vong.

• Connect with Nature: Explore the lush Con Dao National Park, home to incredible biodiversity. This is your luxury Vietnam vacation finale—the perfect reward after your epic North-to-South adventure.

• Experience: Complete rejuvenation, privacy, and true tranquility.

• Accommodation: Poulo Condor Boutique Resort & Spa (Junior Suite Room) or similar.

• Included: B.

Enjoy a final breakfast overlooking the sea. Cherish your last moments of peace on this exclusive island. Our driver will meet you at the resort and transfer you to Con Dao Airport for your onward flight, carrying memories of an unparalleled, comprehensive 19 Days Vietnam trip that spanned the culture, history, and beauty of an entire nation.

• Included: B, Private Transfer.