Ultimate Vietnam: Big Cities, Beaches & The Best Views Ever - 16 Days

From £852£53 per daySave 2%

Trip Snapshot

Genders

  • Female60%
  • Male40%

Average age

26
18 Min35 Max

Start / End

  • Hanoi
  • Ho Chi Minh City

Physical rating

2/5

Group size

1 - 24

Meals included

22

Highlights

  • Immerse yourself in Hanoi's captivating energy with thrilling cyclo rides through the Old Quarter, savoring delectable street eats, and joining a lively microbrewery crawl to iconic Bia Hoi corner.
  • Discover the breathtaking natural beauty of Ninh Binh, marveling at the majestic Tam Chuc Pagoda, dramatic limestone karsts rising from lush rice fields, and exploring mystical Trang An Grottoes by boat.
  • Unleash your inner adventurer in Phong Nha, an unparalleled paradise home to the world's largest cave system, offering incredible caving expeditions and stunning wilderness for hiking and biking.
  • Embark on an epic journey from imperial Hue, delving into historic tunnels and royal tombs, before an exhilarating open-top jeep drive over the Hai Van Pass, revealing panoramic coastal vistas and vibrant local life.
  • Wander the enchanting, lantern-lit streets of Hoi An's Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can indulge in bespoke tailoring, immerse yourself in a traditional cooking class, or simply relax by the riverside.
  • Conclude your Vietnamese adventure by unwinding on the pristine white sands of Qui Nhon and Nha Trang's stunning beaches, before diving into the vibrant metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City with its bustling markets, historic landmarks, and an unforgettable farewell karaoke night.
Recommended

Free Brochure

Uncover insider tips, see a packing list and view a detailed itinerary and accommodation information.

Summary

If you aren’t looking for the most immersive Vietnam experience ever, stop reading these words because this 16-day, hostel-based adventure covers it all. Embrace city hustle and bustle in Hanoi, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City with street eats, insider tours, and street bars. You’ll cruise back roads, wander along rice fields, crawl through historic tunnels, and trek over soaring mountains for photo ops like your Instagram feed has never seen. Close out your adventure by hitting not one, but two beach hotspots for some fun, relaxation, and bumping nightlife. Trust us, Vietnam does not get any better than this.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Hanoi

    Arrive at any time, and choose to kick back at the hostel, or head out to explore the city before meeting up with fellow Roamies in the evening. Ready for some fun? Of course you are! Jump on a cyclo and take a thrilling ride around Hanoi's old quarter to watch the streets come alive at night. Finish off with some tasty street eats for dinner.

  • Day 2

    Hanoi

    Freedom! Today is yours to explore and your CEO will help get you sorted. Want to immerse yourself in Hanoi–take a full day city tour. Feeling the culinary vibe–we'll book you a cooking class. Looking to escape–we'll get you on a full day excursion to Halong Bay. How's that for options? Regardless of your plans, you'll group back together for dinner at the famed Koto Restaurant. With full bellies, it's time for a microbrewery crawl including a stop at Hanoi's most popular beer joint–Bia Hoi corner. Pull up a plastic stool and order a local draught. Cheers!

  • Day 3

    Hanoi

    Ready for more? Hanoi has so much to offer and you'll have another full free day to enjoy the city. Food, adventure, culture, relaxation–we’ve got you covered. This evening, meet up with fellow Roamies and get ready to indulge your inner foodie. Head out for a walk through the back streets and markets of the city’s old quarter, sampling local favourites like “nem ran” and “banh goi.” Take a pit stop at a street-side bar then swing by Hanoi Food Culture restaurant, a G Values Fund Project, and try the city’s signature specialty egg coffee. Having fun yet? Of course you are!

  • Day 4

    Hanoi/Ninh Bình

    Ready to hit the backroads? Let’s go! Start with a visit to Tam Chuc Pagoda, the largest in southeast Asia. Continue on to Ninh Binh and gaze in awe at the limestone cliffs rising up from the rice fields. No filters required as this landscape is already picture-perfect. Ready to chill? Enjoy some free time, you deserve it. Kick back at the hostel and meet some new friends over a cold one or rent a bike to explore off the beaten trail in the beautiful countryside. The choice is yours!

  • Day 5

    Ninh Bình

    Today is yours–get out and explore! Go temple-hopping, biking or hike through rice fields. Feeling energetic? Trek up to Hang Mua Peak for ridiculous views of the surrounding countryside. Adventurous? Jump in a small boat to explore the Trang An Grottoes–small caves found along the canals and lakes only accessible by water. Lazy? No worries, chill out at the hostel and catch up on your social feeds. Whatever you choose, don't forget to pack-up before heading out to catch the overnight sleeper train–All Aboard!

  • Day 6

    Dong Hoi/Phong Nha

    Are you ready to dive into local life even more? Of course you are! Let's start at the expansive Dong Hoi fish market, a bustling collection of vendors selling all manner of seafood. Hungry? Stop by a stall for a traditional Vietnamese breakfast of Banh Mi–served on soft French baguettes, they are a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine. Now you're fuelled up, hop on a bike and ride out into the gorgeous rural countryside. How 'bout some down time? It's been a busy day so head to your hostel in Phong Nha to relax and share your adventures with your mates.

  • Day 7

    Phong Nha

    Live it up with a full free day in Phong Nha–an adventure lovers paradise! Caving anyone? You can't miss the chance to explore the world's largest cave system. Don't forget the waterproof case because these shots will make you the envy of your social feeds. Something else perhaps? Your CEO knows all the insiders for hiking and biking excursions throughout this stunning, vast wilderness. You must be thirsty by now? Then it's time to chill out with the option to join an evening bar crawl with the gang-freedom never tasted so good!

  • Day 8

    Phong Nha/Hu?

    Ready to explore underground? Find out as you descend into the Vinh Moc tunnels (like the Cu Chi tunnels without the crowds), built by local villagers during the Vietnam War. After, find your way to Hue (pun intended) for a free afternoon. Feeling adventurous? Hop on the back of a motorbike for a thrilling ride around town. Curious? Visit the historic Citadel and Royal tombs. Chill? Kick back at the hostel or lounge at a riverside bar. Does it get any better than this? I think not.

  • Day 9

    Hu?/Hoi An

    Ready for an epic day? Let's jump into open-top jeeps for a thrilling drive across iconic Hai Van pass. First stop is the city of ghosts at the infamous An Bang cemetery. Need to cool down? Hit beautiful Lang Co Beach for a refreshing dip in the sea and traditional local lunch. Continue to fill your social feeds with shots from Da Nang bay, an abandoned French fort and Marble mountain pagoda. Seen enough? Of course you haven't! Hoi An awaits with a walk through the old town ending at a lively riverside bar. How's that for epic?

  • Day 10

    Hoi An

    Ready to explore? Hoi An offers so much and you’ll have an entire free day to do as you choose. Discover the ancient old town by bike or boat, or go further afield on an excursion to My Son or the Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills. Don’t worry about the details, your CEO has all the right contacts. Later, meet up with your Roamies for dinner at one of the stylish restaurants in the ancient town of Hoi An. Hop out of your comfort zone and try Nem Rán, Gỏi Đu Đủ Bò Khô, or how about Cao Lầu; you'll find all the local favourites here. Yummy!

  • Day 11

    Hoi An/Qui Nhon

    Ready for some noodles? Then let's dig in! Start the day with a cooking class at the the tour operator–supported Oodles of Noodles training school, enjoying your creations for lunch. Afterwards, you're free to do as much (or as little) as you choose. Feeling fancy? Get fitted for a custom suit. Creative? Learn to make Vietnamese lanterns. Thirsty? pull up a stool at one of the many river-side bars and cafes. Later, it's all-aboard for the overnight train heading south. Settle into your sleeper cabin and catch some zzzzz's.

  • Day 12

    Qui Nhon

    Jump off the train and head to Thap Doi to explore the imposing Cham temples. Hungry? You'll stop by Eoi Gio for a local breakfast and walk along the gorgeous coastline. OK, enough is enough, are you ready to hit the beach? Of course you are! With it's white sand and crystal blue water, Ky Co beach is exactly where you want to be. This remote spot is perfect to spend a chill afternoon or grab a snorkel to spot pristine corals and colourful fish. Speaking of fish, later you'll visit one of Qui Nhon's best seafood restaurants for dinner. Try local favourites like Bun thit nuong, Banh Xeo, and banh beo chen–you'll be bursting after this awesome feast!

  • Day 13

    Qui Nhon/Nha Trang

    Settle in to your private ride for a bit of a drive today. Catch up on your feeds, take a nap but get ready for a gorgeous stop along the way. Gành Đá Dĩa, known as the Giant’s Causeway of Vietnam offers amazing views and angles for your pics–snap away! Next stop is the Mud Baths in the resort city of Nha Trang. Climb into the mud and mineral pools and soak away. The evening is then yours–ready to party? There are a gazillion options and your CEO will suggest the best of the best nightclubs and beach bars for your enjoyment. Really hope you had a nap on the bus.

  • Day 14

    Nha Trang/Ho Chi Minh City

    Freedom! The day is yours to enjoy Nha Trang's many beach options. Find a spot and stretch out on your towel to catch some rays and play in the surf. Stroll the extensive promenade for shopping, bars and fun. Why not channel your inner child at the waterpark or jump on a boat for a snorkelling tour–the choice is yours! Tonight brush off the sand and hop back on the train for your overnight journey back to the big city.

  • Day 15

    Ho Chi Minh City

    Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City–this thriving metropolis will not disappoint! Head out on a walking tour visiting bustling Ben Thanh market, Reunification Palace and the French quarter. Hungry? Your CEO will order up HCMC's most famous dish; pho–the breakfast of champions. After slurping up your noodles, you are free–why not hop on a cyclo or motorbike tour, visit the infamous Cu Chi tunnels or head back to the hostel to relax. Whatever you do, don't forget to warm up your vocal cords and throw on your most outrageous frock because it's time for karaoke. You'll have a farewell party like no other in one of the city's top sing-along bars. Neon lights, blaring tunes and roaring crowds will entice you to the stage. Get ready–you're next. Own it!

  • Day 16

    Ho Chi Minh City

    Say goodbye to your Roamies and depart at any time, or keep the adventure going by heading through the Mekong delta into Cambodia on the next leg of this epic adventure.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Hostels (12 nts), overnight sleeper train (3 nts).

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 15, Lunches: 2, Dinners: 5

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    Guided

    This adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.

  • Wifi

    Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.

Dates & Prices

  • Jul 2026

    from £901
  • Aug 2026

    from £901
  • Sep 2026

    from £852
  • Oct 2026

    from £901
  • Nov 2026

    from £901
  • Save 2%
    Friday 4 Sep 2026to Saturday 19 Sep 2026
    6+ spaces of 24 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £869£852
    Best offer
    Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
    Solo Room from +£1,034

Customer reviews & ratings

(4.6 out of 5)
Based on 60 reviews
  • A wonderful, insightful experience that was made outstanding by our tour coordinator Dolla and the beautiful mix of solo travellers that came together on this tour. I very much enjoyed this more humble style of travel. It provides an opportunity to experience the culture in a more real way and opens doors that wouldn't otherwise be opened. That said, it definitely isnt for everyone.

    Laura Jul, 2025 Verified
  • Vietnam is a diverse country with lots to see and very busy, which can be enjoyable and overwhelming at the same time! No relaxing holiday, for sure, but I do not want to miss out on these experiences! Dormitories are too busy for me, private rooms were excellent in this experience

    Viktoria Oct, 2024 Verified

Essential trip information

Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.

Frequently asked questions

  • What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

    The tour primarily uses multi-share hostels (typically 6-8 people per room) for 12 nights, with a choice of mixed-gender or female-only dorms. There are also 3 nights spent on overnight sleeper trains. Upgrades to twin-share rooms (same gender) may be available, but some hostel rooms in major cities might not have windows.
  • Which meals are included in the tour price?

    The tour includes 15 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 5 dinners. Other meals are generally not included, offering you flexibility in dining choices. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) can suggest excellent local eating venues.
  • Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

    No, there is no single supplement for solo travelers on this group trip. You will be paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, with exceptions on nights spent on overnight sleeper trains.
  • What is the typical group size for this tour?

    The group size can be a maximum of 24 travelers, with an average of 16 participants.
  • Who will lead the tour group?

    A Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you throughout the trip. Their role is to enhance your travel experience by providing information, suggesting activities, recommending local eateries, and introducing you to local friends. Local guides are also utilized for specific knowledge in certain areas.
  • What is the minimum age to participate in this tour?

    The minimum age requirement for this particular tour is 18 years old.
  • What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

    The tour utilizes a variety of transportation methods including private vehicles, cyclos, overnight sleeper trains (in 4-berth soft sleeper compartments which may be mixed gender), bicycles, open-top jeeps, and walking.
  • What are the safety and security recommendations for this trip?

    It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for important documents and valuables, and to leave valuable jewelry at home. Hotel safety deposit boxes are available for secure storage. In cities, petty theft, particularly from motorcyclists snatching bags, can occur. Always keep bags carried over the neck and only carry enough cash for daily expenses.
  • What is the recommended dress code to respect local customs?

    In Asia, a more conservative dress standard is recommended. When packing, choose loose, lightweight, long clothing that covers knees and shoulders, especially when visiting temples, mosques, or other holy sites.
  • How much spending money should I budget for this trip?

    Spending money requirements vary by traveler based on habits for drinks, shopping, and tipping. It is also advised to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.
  • What currency is used and what are the best ways to carry money?

    The local currency is Vietnamese Dong. The best way to carry money is using debit cards for ATM withdrawals (Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted). It's recommended to bring some new, good-condition USD cash for emergencies when ATMs are not accessible. Credit cards can be used at some upmarket establishments.
  • Is travel insurance mandatory for this trip?

    Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have a minimum coverage of USD200,000 for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage is also strongly recommended.
  • What are some of the main activities included in the tour?

    Included activities feature a Hanoi Old Town cyclo tour, Bia Hoi Corner and microbrewery crawl, Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour, Tam Chuc Pagoda visit, Dong Hoi wet/fish market tour with countryside cycling, Vinh Moc Tunnels tour, a thrilling drive across Hai Van Pass with stops at An Bang Cemetery and Marble Mountain, Hoi An Old Town walk, a cooking class at the G Adventures-supported Oodles of Noodles training school, a mud bath visit in Nha Trang, a Ho Chi Minh City walking tour, and a karaoke night.
  • Are there any optional activities available on this tour?

    Yes, there are many optional activities available at an extra cost in various cities. These include a full-day city tour or a Halong Bay excursion in Hanoi, caving in Phong Nha, a motorbike tour in Hue, tailor shop visits or lantern making in Hoi An, snorkeling tours in Nha Trang, and a guided tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels from Ho Chi Minh City.
  • Are international flights included in the tour price?

    No, international flights are generally not included in the price of the tour. You are responsible for arranging your own international airfare.
  • Are laundry facilities available during the tour?

    Laundry facilities are offered by some of the hotels for a charge. If you plan to do your own laundry, it is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
  • What are some important general notes about this tour?

    This tour combines with other Roamies tours, so staff and some fellow travelers may have traveled together previously or may continue on another tour afterward. Also, be aware that some hotel rooms in major Vietnamese cities may not have windows.
  • Anna's profile
  • Petra's profile
  • Charlotte's profile

Still have questions?

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Please chat to our friendly team.

Get In Touch

Why book with us

  • Help Change The World

    We collaborate with local businesses and communities.

  • Best Price Guaranteed

    We won't be beaten on price. If you find this adventure at a lower price please get in touch!

  • You're In Good Hands

    We work with trusted tour operators around the world.

  • You're spoilt for choice

    We have the best choice of adventures on the market.

Similar adventures

Was this page helpful ?

If you need information about a tour or a booking, please contact us instead.