Vietnam Classical Journey - 15 Days

From £3,418£228 per day

Trip Snapshot

Age range

0 - 100

Start / End

  • Hanoi
  • Ho Chi Minh City

Physical rating

2/5

Group size

1 - 15

Meals included

23

Highlights

  • Hanoi - Wander the lantern-lit lanes of the Old Quarter and take in the lake views and temple architecture that define this ancient capital
  • Sapa - Trek 12 km through terraced rice fields to stay overnight with a local family in Ta Van, passing through Hmong and Red Dao villages along the way
  • Halong Bay - Cruise through thousands of limestone islets, kayak into sea caves, and watch the sun set over the water from the deck of your overnight cruise
  • Ninh Binh - Drift through the limestone karst caves of Tam Coc by bamboo boat, then cycle through Tan Thach village to meet the people who live there
  • Hue - Ride a dragon boat along the Perfume River to the oldest pagoda in the city before exploring royal tombs, the Imperial Citadel, and a hands-on incense-making village
  • Hoi An - Cycle out to the riverside beach, order custom clothes from a tailor, and explore the Old Town as lanterns come on at dusk
  • Mekong Delta - Cruise the waterways by sampan, taste tropical fruits on Unicorn Island, and visit a family bee-keeping farm for honey tea and coconut candy-making
  • Can Tho - Take an early boat to the busy Cai Rang Floating Market, then walk through a local noodle factory and visit a centuries-old Khmer temple
  • Ho Chi Minh City - Arrive into Vietnam's most energetic city and spend your final evenings exploring its streets, markets, and local flavours before flying home
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What's inside the PDF

  • Day-by-day itinerary
    Every day mapped out, covering activities, travel times, meals and where you'll stay.
  • Packing & kit list
    Exactly what to bring, from clothing and essentials to luggage guidelines and what's available to hire locally.
  • What's included
    Accommodation, transport, guides and meals, so you can see exactly what your price covers.
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Summary

Embark on a captivating journey through Vietnam, starting in the vibrant streets of Hanoi and the verdant landscapes of Sapa, where you'll trek through stunning rice terraces and mountain villages. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay on a leisurely cruise, with opportunities for kayaking and exploring hidden caves. Discover Vietnam's rich history with visits to ancient capitals and royal tombs, while the cultural gems of Hue and the charming town of Hoi An offer plenty of leisure moments to soak in local life and perhaps get custom-tailored garments. Your adventure concludes in the dynamic Ho Chi Minh City and the lush Mekong Delta, where floating markets and traditional crafts provide a fascinating glimpse into this enchanting destination.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Welcome to Hanoi

    Your adventure in Vietnam kicks off as you arrive in Hanoi. A private driver will be waiting for you at the airport, identifiable by a signboard bearing your name. You'll be escorted to your accommodation, conveniently located in the vibrant heart of the city near the captivating Old Quarter.

    Feel free to wander and explore the city's charming streets at your own leisure, or unwind at the hotel after your journey.

  • Day 2

    Journey to Sapa

    Start your day with an early breakfast at the hotel, followed by checking out and preparing for our next adventure. We will travel to Sapa by limousine bus, a journey that takes approximately 6 hours.

    Upon arrival in the picturesque mountain town of Sapa, you'll be transferred to your accommodation. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring this enchanting town nestled in the heart of the mountains.

  • Day 3

    Trekking the Rice Terraces of Sapa

    Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel. At around 9:30 am, we'll meet our guide to embark on a 12 km trek. Our journey takes us to Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai villages, home to the Hmong community.

    Along the way, you’ll be able to admire the stunning vistas of rice terraces and mountains that define this region. In Lao Chai, we'll pause for lunch by the river, offering a moment to soak in the peaceful surroundings.

    Following lunch, the trek continues to Ta Van village, where the Dzay people reside. Here, you’ll stay overnight and have the unique opportunity to engage with the local community and observe their traditional customs.

  • Day 4

    Trek through Hoang Lien National Park & Travel Back to Hanoi

    After a hearty breakfast, we set off on our final day's trek to Giang Ta Chai village, home to the Red Dao minority. Our journey takes us through the lush bamboo forest of Hoang Lien National Park.

    En route, we pause by a waterfall and cross a rattan bridge, allowing time to rest and admire the serene landscape. You'll find a scenic spot to enjoy lunch before we continue towards Su Pan, a quaint village nestled by the roadside.

    From there, a car will take us back to Sapa. Finally, we return to Hanoi in comfort aboard a limousine bus.

  • Day 5

    Setting Sail on Halong Bay

    Today we explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay, renowned for its striking natural beauty. After breakfast, we will depart from Hanoi between 8:00 and 9:00 am. The exact pick-up time at your hotel lobby will be confirmed the day prior.

    By noon, we will arrive at the jetty, where you will board the cruise. Upon boarding, you will receive a warm welcome followed by check-in and lunch as our boat navigates through the picturesque islets.

    In the afternoon, a variety of activities await: choose to swim, kayak, or explore nearby caves, depending on the cruise itinerary. Alternatively, you can relax and take in the scenery from the deck.

    As evening approaches, the boat will anchor in a scenic spot, perfect for watching the sunset. Dinner will be served onboard, followed by an overnight stay on the cruise.

    Please note: In the event of adverse weather, the itinerary may be altered or cancelled if boats are restricted from leaving the port. Our travel consultant will coordinate alternative plans if necessary.

  • Day 6

    Admire the Sunrise over Halong Bay & Return to Hanoi

    As dawn breaks over Halong Bay, we enjoy breakfast as our vessel gently makes its way back to the port. After an early lunch on board, we disembark and travel back to Hanoi. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the vibrant city at your leisure.

  • Day 7

    Explore Hoa Lu, Tam Coc & Ninh Binh

    This morning our guide will collect you from your hotel for a journey to Ninh Binh, located approximately 120 km from Hanoi. We will take a 20-minute break to relax. We begin our visit at Hoa Lu, the first capital of Vietnam. Here, you'll discover the fascinating historical reasons behind the capital's eventual move to Hanoi.

    Explore the remarkable 17th-century architecture of the temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le, the first two emperors of ancient Vietnam. Immerse yourself in the historical ambiance of this significant site.

    Enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, featuring a variety of regional dishes, including goat meat and fried rice. Vegetarian options are readily available.

    Experience the beauty of Tam Coc with a 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride. As you glide along, admire the stunning landscape of rice paddies, rivers, and caves - a scene often referred to as the "Halong Bay on Land."

    Continue with a 45-minute cycling tour around the village, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people. We’ll then return to our shuttle bus and head back to Hanoi.

    Arrive in Hanoi, where you will be dropped off at your hotel, concluding your memorable day trip.

  • Day 8

    Travel South to Hue

    Savour your final hours in Hanoi before we escort you to the airport for your flight to Hue. Upon arrival, our driver will be ready to take you to your accommodation in the heart of the city. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your leisure.

  • Day 9

    Uncover the Perfume River, the Imperial Citadel & the Royal Tombs of Hue

    Between 8:00 – 8:30 am, our guide and vehicle will collect you from your hotel in Hue city centre to begin the full-day city tour. We'll start with a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, heading towards the Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hue. This 30-minute morning boat ride offers a refreshing start to the day.

    Next, we'll explore the Hue Imperial Citadel, the former residence of Vietnam’s last royal family, the Nguyen Dynasty. Following this, we’ll drive to Dong Ba Market, the city's bustling hub of activity. Here, you’ll observe local trade and perhaps pick up souvenirs.

    For lunch, enjoy traditional Hue cuisine and take a brief rest before we visit the royal tombs. Pamper yourself with an herbal foot bath, a perfect rejuvenation for the afternoon ahead.

    We’ll visit the Tomb of Khai Dinh, a unique fusion of Western and Eastern design, and the tomb of Minh Mang, famed for its majestic architecture seamlessly integrated with the surrounding landscape.

    On our return, we'll stop at a village known for crafting conical hats and incense sticks, where you can try your hand at these traditional skills. At around 4:00 - 5:00 pm we will return to your hotel, concluding the tour.

  • Day 10

    Take Hai Van Pass into Hoi An

    Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before we embark on a scenic transfer from Hue to Hoi An in a private car.

    En route, we will traverse the renowned Hai Van Pass, celebrated for its breathtaking views of the mountains and the sea - a journey considered among the most stunning in the world.

    Upon arrival in Hoi An, you will check in at your hotel and have free time to explore the charming surroundings at your leisure.

  • Day 11

    Free Day in Hoi An

    Enjoy a leisurely day at your own pace in the captivating town of Hoi An. Consider hiring a bicycle from the hotel to explore the scenic routes along the riverside or make your way to the nearby beach. Here, you can unwind at one of the quaint cafes with a refreshing fruit drink after a swim in the warm, tranquil sea.

    Hoi An is renowned for its tailoring, so you might choose to visit a local tailor shop, where bespoke clothing, bags, or shoes can be crafted for you overnight.

    In the evening, stroll through the enchanting Old Town, transformed by the glow of lanterns that paint a fairy-tale-like scene. Be sure to watch the vibrant street performances that add to the magical atmosphere.

  • Day 12

    Continue to Ho Chi Minh City

    Enjoy your final morning in Hoi An before your private driver takes you to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by another driver who will transfer you to your accommodation in the city centre. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish.

  • Day 13

    Mekong Delta Experience & Transfer to Can Tho

    Start the day with a hotel pick-up in Ho Chi Minh City and travel to My Tho. On arrival, we will visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda, a historic site from the late 19th century. We then board a sampan to cruise along the river, passing the idyllic Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise Islands.

    At Unicorn Island, enjoy a stroll through village paths, where you can admire the orchards and savour tropical fruits, accompanied by traditional Vietnamese folk music performed by locals. We will also visit a fruit plantation.

    Next, experience a serene rowboat journey through the Thoi Son Canal. Visit a family-run bee-keeping farm to sample honey tea and stop by a coconut candy workshop. A local restaurant lunch concludes our morning activities.

    In the afternoon, cycle around Tan Thach Village to engage with the community and observe life in the Mekong Delta. Alternatively, if you prefer to relax, you can unwind in a hammock and enjoy the refreshing breeze.

    We finish the day by proceeding to Can Tho City.

  • Day 14

    Visit Cai Rang Floating Market & Return to Ho Chi Minh City

    Start the day with breakfast at our hotel. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the scenic tributaries of the Lower Mekong River, specifically the Bassac River. Here, we visit the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market, a vibrant hub of commerce and local culture.

    Then, join us for a walking tour of a regional noodle factory to observe the traditional production process. Next, we explore Munir Ansay Pagoda, a remarkable Khmer temple noted for its distinctive architecture.

    Afterwards, we travel by boat to the Con Son tourist area, where you can tour a fruit plantation and savour a selection of fresh, seasonal fruits. Lunch is provided before we return to Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Day 15

    Farewell Ho Chi Minh City

    Enjoy a nutritious breakfast as we start the final day of your Vietnam adventure. After checking out of the hotel, you have time to explore the local markets and pick up some souvenirs for your loved ones. Later, your private driver will take you to the airport for your flight home.

What's Included

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 14, Lunches: 8, Dinners: 1

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    Self Guided
  • Wifi

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

Dates & Prices

  • Jun 2026

    from £3,418
  • Jul 2026

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  • Tuesday 30 Jun 2026to Tuesday 14 Jul 2026
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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.

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