Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh - Ultimate Vietnam in 14 Days

Minimum 2 people

13 Nights

Vietnam

From £2,808 per person*

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Highlights

A taste of bustling Hanoi with its busy markets and delicious street food
Discover the magnificent caves of Ha Long Bay
Visit the Imperial City of Hue
Experience the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh and the Mekong Delta

What You'll Do

Hanoi at Leisure

Upon your arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel in Ha Noi. Known as the "City of Lakes," Ha Noi is situated along the banks of the Red River and is one of the most ancient capitals in the world. The city features elegant colonial buildings, historic pagodas, and unique museums. With its rich French colonial history, Ha Noi is famous for its delicious cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and exquisite silks and crafts. Hanoi's traffic is chaotic and noisy, yet fascinating; it truly is unlike anywhere else. Always remember to look in both directions before crossing the street. It’s often said that, "If you can make it through Hanoi's rush hour traffic, you can make it anywhere in life." After some time to relax and freshen up, consider heading down to the bustling area of the 36 Streets, also known as the Old Quarter. Accommodation: Tirant Hotel Meals: None

Hanoi like a local

Hanoi is a fantastic city to explore on foot. While the traffic can be chaotic, walking allows you to experience much more at ground level. Today, we’ll embark on a full-day guided walking tour to explore Hanoi like a local. By the end of the day, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of this incredible city. We will begin our journey at the Ngoc Son Temple, located on Hoan Kiem Lake. Here, our local guide will provide insights into Vietnamese culture and religion. Afterward, you'll hop into a traditional red cyclo to navigate through the organized—and sometimes disorganized—chaos of Hanoi. Next, we’ll return to the Old Quarter, where we’ll stop along the train tracks, where locals reside, and sample a Hanoi staple: 'Bia Hoi.' This delightful fresh beer is brewed and served by the friendliest locals, and a glass typically costs around 5,000 VND (about 0.25 USD). We encourage you to indulge in some of the best street food Asia has to offer, including local Vietnamese dishes such as pho, banh mi, or bun cha. Don't forget to try the famous 'egg coffee,' another Hanoi classic. In the evening, we will enjoy a traditional water puppet performance or the 'Four Palaces' cultural show. This northern tradition, which dates back nearly a thousand years, features traditional Vietnamese music with drums, wooden bells, horns, and bamboo flutes. Accommodation: Tirant Hotel Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

After breakfast, you will be picked up and taken to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its approximately 1,600 islands and islets, as well as its unique and beautiful caves. Today, we will visit Trinh Nu Grotto, located on the Bo Hon Island range and about 15 km from Bai Chay Beach. According to legend, there was once a beautiful fisherman's daughter whose family was so poor that they served the wealthy administrator of the fishing zone. The administrator demanded that the family give him the girl as a concubine. However, the daughter refused, as she already had a lover. Enraged by her refusal, he exiled her to a desolate island where she waited in vain for her lover to rescue her. Tragically, she eventually died of starvation, and legend says she turned to stone. Visitors to the cave can see the stone image of a girl with long flowing hair, lying on the rocks, gazing towards the mainland. Trinh Nu Grotto consists of three chambers: one resembles a house with a flat roof, another measures 8 meters long and 5 meters wide, and the third is connected by a narrow window. Inside the grotto, you will find numerous stalagmites and stalactites in various forms, creating beautiful images on the walls. You will also have some time to relax on the stunning sandy beaches before boarding your cruise boat for a gentle cruise around the islands of Ha Long Bay. Accommodation: Bhaya Classic Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Ha Long Bay to Hanoi

This morning, you will visit one of the stunning caves in the Ha Long Bay area: Sung Sot Cave, also known as Surprise Cave. It is located on Bo Hon Island in the heart of Ha Long Bay and is recognized as the largest and most beautiful cave in the region. To reach the cave, you will trek briefly under the forest’s foliage and ascend a long flight of stone stairs, but the journey is well worth it! The cave spans around ten thousand square meters, with chambers that rise approximately 30 meters high. Inside, you will find an abundance of impressive stalactites and stalagmites, which create a breathtaking spectacle. In the afternoon, you will return to Hanoi and have the remainder of the day to explore the city or relax at your hotel. Accommodation: Tirant Hotel Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Flight from Hanoi to Hue

After breakfast, it's time to check out! A driver will pick you up and take you to the airport for your flight to Hue, the Imperial City. Upon your arrival, you will be collected and transferred to your hotel. At the Alba Spa Hotel, take some time to relax and recharge before getting ready to explore Hue. Accommodation: Alba Spa Hotel Meals: Breakfast *Please note that the domestic flight is not included in the cost.

Forbidden City

After breakfast, you will be picked up by a local guide for an adventure to the Forbidden City, where you’ll gain insight into Vietnam’s imperial history. Our guide will meet you at the hotel and accompany you to the Royal Palace. Located within the fortified Citadel, the Forbidden City was once the residence of Vietnam’s royalty, including the emperor, his family, and court officials, all protected by a moat and tall brick walls. Next, we will visit the King Tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty. From moss-covered towers hidden in the hills to faded stone warriors standing vigil over the dead, the tombs evoke a sense of a forgotten, almost mythical world. The kings of the Nguyen Dynasty designed their own tombs, reflecting their unique temperaments, philosophies, and priorities. As you explore further, you'll discover that these tombs not only embody the lives and spirits of the Nguyen Kings but also narrate the story of one of Vietnam’s most captivating historical periods, which includes national unification, military conquest, and the cultural impact of French colonialism.

Hue Hot Spring Getaway

After breakfast, check out and embark on a journey to a lesser-known part of Hue, located at the base of the Truong Son Mountains. The Truong Son Mountain Range is the longest mountain range in Vietnam and serves as an open-air museum showcasing geology, biology, ethnology, and culture. It is the main mountain range of Indochina and acts as a watershed between the Mekong River and the South China Sea. The range extends parallel to the coast in a gentle northwest-southeast curve, forming the boundary between Laos and Vietnam. Nestled at the foot of the Truong Son Mountains, the Thanh Tan hot springs have long been known for their unique health benefits for locals and are now attracting a wider audience. Rich in restorative minerals such as calcium, bicarbonate, and magnesium, the hot springs offer a therapeutic soak. Afterward, you can enjoy an invigorating sauna, steam bath, and a refreshing cold bath. This sequence helps to open the pores, remove toxins, and leave you feeling rejuvenated and healthy. You will experience a Japanese-style, seven-step Onsen treatment, surrounded by trees, stones, and the soothing sounds of birds. It’s a perfect way to relax. Accommodation: Hue Alba Wellness Resort Meals: Breakfast

Hue to Hoi An by Open Top Army Jeep

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll travel to Hoi An in an open-top Army Jeep. These vintage vehicles have been used since wartime. Along the way, you will have lunch by the beach and stop at the top of Hai Van Pass to enjoy breathtaking views. The Hai Van Pass is a 20-kilometer stretch of road that connects the city of Da Nang with Lang Co in Hue Province. At 500 meters above sea level, it is the highest pass in Vietnam. As the road twists and turns, with some gentle curves and hairpin bends, you will be rewarded with stunning views of misty mountains rising above the South China Sea, deserted sandy beaches, lush forests, and the twinkling lights of distant cities. When the Hai Van Tunnel was built in 2005, it became the longest tunnel in Southeast Asia, which redirected much of the traffic away from the pass to a shorter and less winding route. Today, the pass serves as a scenic alternative, free of large trucks and heavy vehicles. It is now enjoyed by visitors traveling by motorbike, jeep, or even bicycle. The journey to Hoi An will take around 5 to 6 hours. You will start by making your way up the pass to viewpoints that offer excellent photo opportunities overlooking the coast and train tracks, as well as passing by the ruins of majestic French colonial buildings. After descending the other side of the pass, you will head to the beach for lunch and perhaps a refreshing swim to cool off. Once you arrive in Hoi An, you can check in and relax at your hotel. Recently declared a World Heritage Site, Hoi An was a major trading port with the West from the 15th to the 19th century. Today, it has been beautifully restored to resemble its historic grandeur, filled with charming nooks and crannies to explore.

Hoi An Cooking Class & Traditional Foot Massag

Today, you will begin your day with a visit to Hoi An Central Market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere of daily life among locals. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about local produce and the ingredients used in traditional dishes. Afterward, we will head to Tra Que Village to explore the herb garden of Hoi An. Following this visit, treat yourself to a relaxing foot massage after a morning filled with walking! You will then meet our local chef and partake in an authentic Vietnamese cooking class. Here, you’ll learn to cook traditional dishes using locally grown ingredients and recipes that have been handed down through generations, all with the guidance of our professional chef. Finally, you can enjoy a delicious lunch in the beautiful and tranquil garden of Tra Que. Accommodation: Hoi An Ancient House Village Resort & Spa Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Hoi An Local Food Walk

Start your morning by relaxing at your hotel. In the evening, your guide will take you on a tour to explore the charming ancient town, where you can enjoy a variety of delicious local dishes. The former port city showcases a rich history reflected in its architecture, featuring a blend of styles from different eras. You will see wooden Chinese shophouses and temples, colorful French colonial buildings, ornate Vietnamese tube houses, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge with its pagoda. This unique mixture makes Hoi An a distinctive city unlike any other in Vietnam. In addition to its remarkable architecture, Hoi An is famous for its street food, including dishes like cao lau, banh xeo, and my quang. Your guide will be happy to introduce you to these culinary delights, which can be found at street vendors or in small shops scattered throughout the beautiful town. Historically, Hoi An was a key port on the silk route, and the ancient town is renowned for its silk and tailoring industry, boasting over 400 cloth and tailor shops. Accommodation: Hoi An Ancient House Village Resort & Spa Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Sampans and Cycling The Mekong Delta

This morning, you will be collected from your hotel for a two-hour drive to the picturesque and friendly Ben Tre Province, where you'll be among the few tourists who visit the area. Our first stop will be at a beautiful local market, one of the largest in the region. Here, you can observe the vibrant trading activities ranging from daily family grocery shopping to more robust market exchanges. Be sure to try a variety of tropical fresh fruits from the local gardens! Next, we’ll board a cruise along the Mekong River to witness the daily lives of the locals. Following that, we will take a ride on a Xelôi (a motorized cart that offers more comfort than the traditional ox-pulled cart) to continue our exploration. Ben Tre Province is known as the Coconut Producer of Southern Vietnam, so no tour here would be complete without visiting a coconut-processing factory. You will see how locals earn a living from coconuts and learn about the many products derived from them—it's surprising just how versatile coconuts can be! In addition to coconuts, you'll discover other traditional ways that the Delta supports its inhabitants. Next, you will transfer to a hand-rowed sampan to navigate through the smaller canals, which are lined with beautiful local palm trees. Relax to the soothing sounds of nature and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere. For lunch, we will serve delicious home-cooked Vietnamese dishes. After lunch, we will enjoy the highlight of our trip—a 40-minute cycling ride. We’ll leisurely cycle along the rural roads, taking in the stunning local scenery. In the evening, we will return to your hotel for you to relax. Accommodation: Fusion Suites Saigon Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

From Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast, check out and say goodbye to the Central Coast of Vietnam. You will head to Da Nang Airport to board a flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon your arrival, a transfer will take you to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the bustling city. Accommodation: Fusion Suites Saigon Meals: Breakfast *Note: The domestic flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City is not included in the cost.

Overview

This once-in-a-lifetime trip takes you deep into the heart of Vietnam. Experience Hanoi like a local, cruise through the stunning Ha Long Bay, explore the magnificent Imperial City of Hue, and unwind at a hot spring retreat. Venture off the beaten path in Hoi An, where you can savor delicious homemade food. Your tour concludes in the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh, where you'll traverse the Mekong Delta by sampan, cycle through rural villages, and discover a different side of the city. Summary: - Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi - Day 2: Exploring Hanoi - Day 3: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay - Day 4: Ha Long Bay to Hanoi - Day 5: Hanoi to Hue - Days 6 & 7: Discovering Hue - Days 8, 9, 10: Hue to Hoi An - Day 11: Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City - Days 12 & 13: Exploring Ho Chi Minh City - Day 14: Departure Upon arriving in Hanoi, you’ll be taken directly to your accommodation to relax. The next day, embark on an unforgettable journey through vibrant Hanoi, with its bustling markets, crafts, and street food. You'll also discover the peace and tranquility of the lush green hillsides and river valleys that characterize the breathtaking natural landscapes of Northern Vietnam. Prepare for a cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay, known for its incredible caves, before flying to Hue, where ancient history awaits in the Imperial City. In Hoi An, you'll learn to cook like a local, visit a traditional food market, and stroll through the city as a local would. Finally, arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling city that never sleeps. Here, you'll explore the scenic Mekong Delta, immersing yourself in the rural aspects of Vietnam. Return home feeling refreshed and invigorated, filled with incredible memories to last a lifetime.

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What's Included

Included

Airport transfers to your first and from your last accommodation
Accommodation for 13 nights and meals as mentioned in the itinerary
3 nights Hanoi BB*
1 night Ha Long Bay FB*
3 nights Hue BB*
3 nights Hoi An BB*
3 nights Ho Chi Minh City BB
Your local guide for all the activities during your experience
Guided walking tour of Hanoi
Guided visit to the caves of Ha Long Bay
Guided visit of the Forbidden City in Hue
Guided visit to Truong Son Mountain

Restorative seven step onsen spa experience
Travel to Hoi An by vintage army jeep via the Hai Van Pass
Guided walking tour of Hoi An market
Traditional foot massage in Tra Que village
Authentic Vietnamese cooking class
Guided evening walk and street food tour of Hoi An
Guided visit to Ben Tre Province and market visit
Cruise down the Mekong River by boat and sampan
Guided cycle ride through Mekong villages and local lunch

*BB - Breakfast Included | *FB - Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)

Not Included

International and domestic flights
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Tips
Any meals, drinks and snacks not mentioned in the itinerary
Any optional extra activities
Visas

Tirant Hotel (or similar)

Situated in the heart of the historic Hanoi Old Quarter, the Tirant Hotel features 85 stylish rooms designed for maximum comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy a fitness room, an outdoor swimming pool, and the Tirant restaurant, which offers a diverse selection of local and international dishes. The hotel also boasts a popular rooftop lounge and the tranquil Ciel spa.

Facilities

En-suite bathroom
Air conditioning
Free Wi-Fi

Aurora Cabins are a magical way to experience the wintry star-filled sky and the Northern Lights, while lying comfortably in the warm bed. They are 29m² with twin or double beds, an en-suite shower room and a sofa bed which can sleep 2 children or one adult comfortably. The glass roof is heated to ensure any snow melts so that you get a clear view of the night sky. There is free Wi-Fi and an Aurora alarm.

Facilities

Maximum occupancy 4
Glass roof
Electric fire
Shower and toilet

Overnight onboard the Bhaya Classic - Deluxe Cabin (or similar)

The Bhaya Classic is the premier Halong Bay cruise, known for visiting the Surprise Cave, the bay’s largest and most impressive attraction, along with hidden gems that are away from the crowds. Guests can enjoy their cabins through large panoramic windows. The ship also features a bar, restaurant, and a sundeck where you can relax with a sundown happy hour. Kayaks are available for use during your stay.

Facilities

En-suite bathroom
Balcony or terrace

Alba Spa Hotel (or similar)

Alba Spa Hotel features 58 fully furnished rooms, each equipped with modern facilities and amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Each floor has its own unique theme, and every room is named individually, providing a personalized experience for guests. Situated in the heart of the historic city of Hue, Alba Spa Hotel serves as a tranquil sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul. The hotel is located in a quiet area, just a short distance from Hue's main attractions, including Trang Tien Bridge, Huong River, and the renowned Hue Imperial City. Alba Spa Hotel takes pride in its unique spa hotel concept, which emphasizes the health benefits of water. With state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated team of caring staff, the hotel aims to offer both travelers and locals a beneficial and lasting experience.

Facilities

En-suite bathroom
TV
Tea and coffee set

Hoi An Ancient House Village Resort & Spa (or similar)

Located in the Cam Chau district, just 1.5 km from Hoi An Ancient Town, Hoi An Ancient House Village Resort & Spa is a distinctive blend of traditional Vietnamese style and modern luxury. The hotel features a swimming pool and sun deck, a restaurant and bar, and offers Wi-Fi throughout the property. There is an on-site spa that provides a variety of treatments. The rooms are decorated in a traditional style with fresh and light decor. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, a minibar, and a balcony, as well as en-suite bathrooms. Slippers and bathrobes are also included for your comfort.

Facilities

En-suite bathroom
Balcony or terrace
TV

Fusion Suites Saigon

The Fusion Suites are centrally located and provide contemporary accommodations. On-site amenities include a fitness center and a restaurant that offers a variety of delicious Vietnamese dishes as well as international cuisine, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. Each room features floor-to-ceiling windows and a kitchenette. The en suite bathroom is equipped with either a bath or a shower, along with slippers, bathrobes, and complimentary toiletries.

Facilities

En-suite bathroom
Air conditioning
TV

Hue Alba Wellness Resort (or similar)

The property features 26 elegantly decorated, fully equipped luxury rooms. On-site, there is a restaurant that specializes in Vietnamese cuisine, particularly dishes from Hue. Guests can also enjoy the Thanh Tan Hot Springs, which promote a healthy body and a peaceful spirit. The legendary hot mineral spring was discovered in 1928 by French doctor, botanist, and pharmacist Albert Sallet.

Facilities

En-suite bathroom
Air conditioning
Free Wi-Fi

Accommodation

Your Local Host

Thao

I'm Thao, a seasoned travel specialist with over 10 years of experience in the industry. I am passionate about helping clients plan and book the perfect vacation, whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family trip, or a group adventure. My extensive knowledge of various destinations and travel options allows me to provide personalised recommendations and find the best deals for you. I stay up to date on the latest industry trends and promotions. In addition to my planning and booking expertise, I am an excellent communicator and problem solver. I always strive to ensure that my clients' trips run smoothly and am available to assist with any issues that may arise during your travels. I take the time to understand your preferences and needs, going above and beyond to make sure your vacation exceeds your expectations.

Location

This once in a lifetime experience begins in the bustling city of Hanoi, you will take you through Vietnam from North to South, visiting Hue and Hoi an and ending in Ho Chi Minh City.

You will fly into Hanoi, and fly out of Ho Chi Minh City.

FAQs

What clothes should I pack?

Can this tour be tweaked?

This experience is brought to you by:

Request Availability

Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh - Ultimate Vietnam in 14 Days

Minimum 2 people

13 Nights

Vietnam

From £2,808 per person*

Highlights

Request Availability

What You'll Do

Overview

What's Included

Included

Not Included

Tirant Hotel (or similar)

Accommodation

Your Local Host

Thao

Location

FAQs

What clothes should I pack?

Can this tour be tweaked?

This experience is brought to you by:

From £2,808 per person* *Based on travel for two people. For larger groups or solo travellers, please enquire directly to hello@orcaadventures.co.uk

From £2,808 per person*
*Based on travel for two people. For larger groups or solo travellers, please enquire directly to hello@orcaadventures.co.uk