The real Vietnam tour – 15 days from Ho Chi Minh

Welcome to Vietnam – A Journey Beyond Expectations

Traveling to Vietnam is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience—far richer and more surprising than anything you’ve read in books, seen in films, or heard from others. This country is a harmonious blend of ancient heritage and modern vitality, offering visitors everything from vibrant cities and stunning landscapes to UNESCO-recognized cultural and natural wonders.

With the thoughtful planning and support of our experienced travel consultants, your dream Vietnam journey becomes seamless and unforgettable.

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City), you will be warmly welcomed by our professional English-speaking guide and driver. During the transfer to your hotel, enjoy a brief introduction to your upcoming adventure and get your first glimpse of Vietnam’s dynamic southern metropolis.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Start your day with an exhilarating Vespa tour (08:00–12:00) that offers a fresh, local perspective on modern-day Ho Chi Minh City—far beyond the usual package tours. Hop on the back of a vintage Vespa and weave through lively streets as your local guide takes you to both iconic sights and hidden gems.

Explore the vibrant Chinatown (Cholon), immerse yourself in the colors and fragrances of a flower market, and step into a tranquil, tucked-away Buddhist pagoda rarely seen by visitors. Visit architectural landmarks like the Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office, both designed by the legendary Gustave Eiffel. Then, pause in front of the Reunification Palace for a glimpse into Vietnam’s turbulent past.

Depending on the timing, you’ll either start or end the tour with lunch at the stylish Café Zoom, a local favorite.

In the afternoon, continue exploring by car with your guide. Visit the poignant War Remnants Museum, a moving experience that presents the harsh realities of the Vietnam War through compelling exhibits and powerful photography.

At 18:00, enjoy one of Vietnam’s most acclaimed cultural performances — “The Mist” by Lune Production at the historic Saigon Opera House. This beautifully choreographed show blends contemporary dance with traditional elements, telling a poetic story of rural life in Vietnam.

After the performance, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel, or optionally dropped off at a restaurant of your choice (return from the restaurant on your own).

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

This morning, embark on a unique journey into the soul of southern Vietnam as you board the Bassac Cruise at Ninh Kieu Pier, Can Tho. Enjoy a welcome drink and meet the friendly crew before checking into your cozy, wood-paneled cabin.

As the boat begins her gentle voyage down the Hau River, a delicious lunch is served on board, offering sweeping views of the lush riverside landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass through Tra On Floating Market, a lively tableau of boats trading fruits and goods on the water.

Turning into the quiet Nicolai Canal, the cruise continues toward the Mang Thit and Co Chien Rivers, where you’ll witness an ever-changing panorama of rice fields, sugarcane plantations, and shaded village homes hugging the riverbanks. The sundeck offers the perfect place to unwind and soak in the peaceful rhythm of the Delta.

By mid-afternoon, the Bassac anchors near a tranquil village. Step ashore for a guided walk through the verdant countryside, where you’ll encounter fruit orchards, rice paddies, and warm smiles from local villagers going about their daily life.

Back on board, enjoy a complimentary drink at the bar as the sun begins to set, painting the Delta in golden hues. As dusk falls, the crew prepares a delightful dinner served in the dining area while the Bassac continues cruising along the Mang Thit River.

The boat gently anchors for the night, surrounded by the serene sounds of the Delta.

Overnight on board the Bassac Cruise – Mang Thit River.

Awaken to the gentle motion of the Bassac as it sets sail at 06:30, cruising toward Cai Be. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board, surrounded by the tranquil morning scenes along the riverbanks — fishermen casting their nets, sleepy villages bathed in golden light, and the first stirrings of life in the Delta.

As the Bassac crosses the wide Co Chien River and turns into the bustling Cho Lach Canal, you’ll pass a mosaic of river life: wooden shipyards, rice barges, and families drying tropical fruits under the sun — a portrait of industrious Mekong daily life.

Near Cai Be, it’s time to bid farewell to the Bassac. After check-out, transfer to a traditional rowing boat for a peaceful glide through a quiet canal shaded by nipa palms. Here, time seems to slow down completely.

A rendezvous with a local boat brings you ashore for an insightful visit to Cai Be’s famous handicraft village, where artisans produce coconut candy, rice paper, and other Mekong specialties using age-old techniques passed down through generations.

Note: You will leave the Bassac Cruise permanently around 08:30, as you board the small boat for the final excursion.

By mid-morning, your driver meets you for the return journey to Ho Chi Minh City. Transfer directly to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your short flight to Danang.

Upon arrival in Danang, you’ll be warmly greeted by your private guide and driver, then transferred to the charming coastal town of Hoi An.

Time at leisure. Overnight in Hoi An.

Spend a day immersed in the peaceful rhythm of rural Vietnam as you leisurely cycle through the scenic countryside, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. Ride across the lush islands of the Song Thu river delta, navigating by way of local ferries and charming floating bridges, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of villagers.

This intimate journey takes you off the tourist trail and into the heart of traditional craftsmanship. Visit local artisans who still craft bricks using centuries-old techniques. Watch how wooden river boats are skillfully carved by hand, and discover the art of weaving the vibrant Hoi An sleeping mats from colorful straw — a fading but beautiful tradition.

Try your hand at paddling a Vietnamese basket boat, a signature of coastal life in Central Vietnam. Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy genuine interaction with local families, gaining a deep appreciation for their customs, stories, and way of life.

For lunch, you’ll be warmly welcomed into a local home, where a traditional Vietnamese meal will be served in the comfort of a shaded garden — a tranquil retreat under a mango tree. After a short rest, your journey back to Hoi An begins with gentle cycling through serene paths and rice paddies, arriving in town by late afternoon.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Known as the highlight of any Vietnam tour, Hoi An Ancient Town is a remarkably well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Its architecture and street layout reflect a harmonious blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European influences, creating a charming and timeless atmosphere.

Today is your free day to explore Hoi An at your own pace. You may choose to cycle through the lush rice paddies in the countryside, browse for local handicrafts and souvenirs in antique shops and art galleries, or simply unwind at a café along the old streets and watch the world go by. For those seeking relaxation by the sea, Cua Dai Beach offers a long stretch of soft white sand and gentle waves.

In the evening, enjoy a truly memorable cultural experience with tickets to the Hoi An Memories Show, an impressive open-air performance staged on an expansive riverside stage with a capacity of over 3,000 people. The show is a spectacular blend of music, dance, and traditional Vietnamese costumes — particularly the elegant Ao Dai — reenacting the rich 400-year history of Hoi An as a thriving trading port.

Overnight in Hoi An.

After breakfast, depart Hoi An for Hue, the final imperial capital of Vietnam, known for its majestic architecture, peaceful pagodas, and royal tombs nestled in quiet villages and verdant hills. Hue is a cultural gem and a must-see on any Vietnam tour.

En route, enjoy a scenic coastal drive via the Hai Van Pass, offering panoramic views of the sea and mountains. Stop for a quick photo opportunity at the renowned Da Nang Beach, then visit the Cham Museum in Da Nang — home to the most impressive collection of Cham sculpture in the world, offering insight into an ancient and fascinating culture.

Upon arrival in Hue, begin exploring the city’s rich history with a visit to the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945), the Citadel is a sprawling complex of palaces, temples, walls, and gates that reflect the grandeur of Vietnam’s royal past.

In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River. Your journey includes a visit to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the most iconic spiritual sites in Hue. Perched on a hill overlooking the river, the pagoda is not only known for its elegant seven-tiered tower but also for its historical significance — it was from here that monk Thich Quang Duc departed before his legendary self-immolation protest in 1963.

Return to your hotel around 17:00.
Overnight in Hue.

This morning, journey to the outskirts of Hue to explore two of the most impressive royal mausoleums from the Nguyen Dynasty — the tombs of King Minh Mang and King Khai Dinh.

Begin with a visit to the Tomb of King Minh Mang, located about 12 kilometers west of the city on the peaceful banks of the Perfume River. Construction of the tomb began in 1840 under the King’s own supervision and was completed by his son, Emperor Thieu Tri, after his death. Regarded as the most majestic of all Nguyen tombs, it boasts a harmonious blend of architecture and nature, with carefully laid-out pavilions, lakes, bridges, and pine-covered hills that reflect the solemnity and symmetry of Confucian philosophy.

Next, head to the Tomb of King Khai Dinh, the smallest yet most elaborate and expensive royal tomb. Built between 1920 and 1931, the tomb is a striking fusion of Eastern and Western styles, with intricate mosaic work, French-influenced design, and bold architectural elements. Despite its modest size, it is known for its lavish interior, highlighted by a ceiling mural made entirely of inlaid porcelain and glass — a masterpiece of Vietnamese royal craftsmanship.

Around noon, transfer to Phu Bai Airport for your short flight to Hanoi, the charming capital of Vietnam.

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll be welcomed by your local guide and transferred to your hotel in the city center.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Ranked among the world’s best travel destinations, Hanoi – the capital of Vietnam – offers a captivating blend of ancient heritage and modern charm, shaped over more than 1,000 years of history. The city is famed for its peaceful lakes, early morning Tai Chi, tree-lined boulevards, and vibrant street life.

Start your day early at 05:30 with a scenic walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, where the soul of Hanoi truly awakens. You’ll witness the unique rhythm of the city as locals of all ages gather to practice morning exercises, from graceful Tai Chi to energetic aerobics – a cultural scene that is both fascinating and heartwarming. This is also the rare moment when the Old Quarter is tranquil, letting you absorb its charm before the daily bustle.

At 07:00, enjoy an authentic Hanoi breakfast with a steaming bowl of Pho, Vietnam’s most iconic dish, served hot and fragrant in a local eatery.

At 08:00, depart for the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, where you’ll gain valuable insight into the country’s rich ethnic diversity. The museum features extensive displays on all 54 recognized ethnic groups in Vietnam, from daily life to spiritual customs, and includes life-sized traditional houses in the outdoor exhibition area.

Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, founded in 1070 to honor Confucius and later scholars. This well-preserved historical site is a masterpiece of traditional Vietnamese architecture and an enduring symbol of learning.

After lunch at a local restaurant, head to the famous Train Street – a narrow alley where trains pass just inches away from homes and cafes. The best time to visit is around 14:00, with trains scheduled to pass at 14:30 and 15:30. Snap amazing photos, observe local life up close, and enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee at Train Track Coffee as you await the thrilling moment the train rushes by.

Later in the afternoon, visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex, starting with an outside view of the Mausoleum, where the late President Ho Chi Minh rests in eternal honor. The complex also includes the Presidential Palace, his modest house-on-stilts, and nearby is the unique One Pillar Pagoda, shaped like a lotus flower rising from a pond – an enduring symbol of Hanoi.

Conclude the day with a delightful Water Puppet Show, a traditional Vietnamese art form that brings folklore to life through music, storytelling, and wooden puppets performing on water.

Overnight in Hanoi.

After breakfast, depart from Hanoi and enjoy a scenic drive to Ky Son Village, a peaceful countryside escape about an hour away, where the charming Moon Garden Homestay awaits.

10:00 – Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed with a refreshing cup of local green tea. Spend some free time exploring the tranquil surroundings of Moon Garden and the village of Ky Son. You may stroll to the local market or peek into the village kindergarten (if open), gaining a glimpse into everyday rural life.

11:00 – Join a Vietnamese cooking class, where you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh ingredients sourced from the garden and market.

12:30 – Enjoy a delicious home-cooked lunch with your host family.

13:30 – Indulge in a relaxing hand spa session, dipping your fingers into a fragrant lime-scented bowl, followed by a traditional herbal hand massage – a true local wellness experience.

Afterward, enjoy some free time to unwind, chat with your host family, or engage in cultural exchanges. You’re welcome to ask questions about traditional customs, local snacks, or even learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases with the help of a friendly host.

15:00 – Embark on a leisurely bicycle ride to explore the nearby farming communities of Ky Son, Tam Son, Van Minh, and Cham. Stop along the way to greet locals, visit homes for tea, or take part in seasonal farming activities such as transplanting rice, harvesting cassava, or collecting herbs for your evening steam bath.

17:30 – Return to Moon Garden for happy hour, where you’ll be offered a tisane (herbal infusion) made from local plants. Sample some seasonal specialties like sweet potatoes, cassava, or peanuts while waiting for your herbal steam bath to be prepared.

18:30 – Rejuvenate with a traditional steam bath infused with fragrant herbs such as lemongrass, pomelo leaves, and holy basil.

19:30 – Sit down for a wholesome and flavorful dinner made with fresh local ingredients.

20:30 – End the day with a unique cultural experience: observe the family’s evening worship ritual, then relax your feet in a warm herbal foot bath made with ginger, salt, and mugwort – believed to promote better sleep and relieve fatigue.

Overnight at Moon Garden Homestay.

07:00 – Start your morning with a rejuvenating session of Yijinjing traditional exercises, a gentle form of movement that improves flexibility, balance, and internal energy—perfect for welcoming a new day in the peaceful countryside.

07:30 – Enjoy a healthy breakfast served in the garden. Afterward, take part in a traditional Vietnamese ritual: burning votive money and gold, an age-old custom to honor and send offerings to deceased ancestors.

08:30 – Free time for you to relax and absorb the serenity of the Moon Garden. Feel at home as you rest in a hammock, try on Vietnamese traditional clothes for photos, chat with the hosts, or take a stroll to further explore Ky Son village and its picturesque surroundings.

09:30 – Say goodbye to your hosts and begin your journey to explore Duong Lam Ancient Village, a well-preserved traditional village known for its laterite brick houses, communal houses, and authentic rural architecture. Visit Mia Pagoda, home to over 280 statues and a unique collection of ancient Buddhist art.

From Duong Lam, continue your drive to the mountainous region of Hoa Binh, where you’ll take a boat trip on Hoa Binh Lake, often referred to as the “Halong Bay on the mountains.” Enjoy a peaceful cruise between limestone peaks mirrored on calm waters. Lunch will be served at a local home or restaurant, offering a taste of regional cuisine.

After lunch, transfer to Mai Chau, a lush valley home to the Thai ethnic minority group. Upon arrival, take a cycling tour through the charming villages of Ban Lac and Poom Coong, where you can see stilt houses, meet friendly locals, and admire rice paddies and rolling hills in the golden afternoon light.

Check in to Mai Chau Ecolodge, a tranquil retreat nestled in nature.

Overnight in Mai Chau.

After breakfast, depart Mai Chau and enjoy a scenic drive through Vietnam’s serene countryside to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam under the Dinh Dynasty (968–980 AD). Upon arrival, explore the ancient sanctuaries and royal tombs, remnants of a golden era. Nestled between limestone mountains and rice fields, Hoa Lu is not only rich in historical value but also a place of poetic natural beauty.

Continue the journey with a local lunch before heading to Trang An, often dubbed the “Inland Halong Bay.” Board a traditional sampan boat and embark on a magical journey through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, passing through a labyrinth of cross-water caves, tranquil rivers, and hidden valleys. Trang An is home to 31 valleys, 50 caves, and an astonishing diversity of flora and fauna, including several rare species listed in Vietnam’s Red Book.

As your boat glides through peaceful waters, surrounded by forest-covered limestone mountains, you’ll hear nothing but the splash of oars and the songs of birds, occasionally spotting white goats grazing on cliffs. It’s a moment of tranquility and awe, like a glimpse of paradise on earth.

Overnight in Ninh Binh.

Halong Bay – The Highlight of Any Vietnam Holiday

Among all the breathtaking destinations in Vietnam, Halong Bay is often considered the most beautiful and awe-inspiring—a must-visit on any Vietnam holiday.

We begin our journey at 8:00 AM, departing Hanoi for a scenic 3-hour drive through the Red River Delta. The landscape along the way offers fantastic photo opportunities of lush green rice paddies, farmers in conical hats working the fields, and peaceful rural villages. Midway, we’ll stop at a local handicraft workshop, where you can admire and shop for traditional Vietnamese items such as embroidered paintings, gemstone carvings, and locally mined rubies and sapphires.

Our destination is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay, home to nearly 3,000 limestone islands and islets rising dramatically from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed aboard our luxury junk cruise, greeted with a refreshing welcome drink and a lunch of fresh local seafood. As we glide into the heart of Halong Bay, you’ll be immersed in its serene beauty, surrounded by towering cliffs, hidden lagoons, and the gentle lapping of the waves.

During the cruise, we’ll make stops to explore the Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, one of the largest and most beautiful in the bay, and enjoy a relaxing swim or hike at the white sand beach of Ti Top Island.

In the evening, our junk anchors in a quiet, secluded area of the bay. Dine under the stars, sip wine on the deck, and let the gentle sway of the boat lull you into peace.

Overnight on board in the wild, magical waters of Halong Bay.

No Vietnam journey is truly complete without an overnight cruise in the legendary Halong Bay. Described as majestic and mysterious, inspiring yet imperious, Halong Bay is a natural masterpiece — a gallery of stone islands rising from emerald waters, sculpted by wind and waves over millions of years.

After a peaceful night aboard your luxury junk, wake to the gentle rocking of the boat and the first light glistening on the bay. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as the cruise continues. Hop on a sampan or kayak to explore a hidden secret lagoon, where calm waters are cradled by dramatic cliffs still wrapped in morning mist.

As we sail further into the quiet, less touristy area of Bai Tu Long Bay, pass by fascinating rock formations such as Human Head Island, Turtle Island, and Duck Islet, before reaching the iconic filming site of the movie Indochine.

Around noon, the boat returns to the harbor. Disembark and transfer back to Hanoi.

Upon arrival in Hanoi, hop on a cyclo ride for a slow-paced discovery of the Old Quarter. This traditional mode of transport lets you truly absorb the atmosphere — the buzzing traffic, street vendors, narrow alleys, and the unique rhythm of daily life in the capital.

As dusk falls, begin one of the most anticipated experiences of your trip — a street food & night walking tour. Especially vibrant on weekends, the Old Quarter transforms into a pedestrian-only wonderland full of color, music, and tantalizing aromas.

Start at Dong Xuan Market, the beating heart of Hanoi commerce, where every corner overflows with local products — from fresh produce to dried goods, sweets, spices, fashion, and more. Learn about Vietnamese culinary culture, ingredients, and the stories behind each dish.

Your first tasting is Bánh Cuốn — soft steamed rice rolls filled with seasoned pork and wood ear mushrooms, served with sweet-sour fish sauce, herbs, and Vietnamese pork sausage (chả lụa). Watch as it’s made fresh before your eyes.

Next, wander deeper into the Old Quarter for grilled pork skewers straight from charcoal flames. Try it on its own or inside a warm baguette with pickled vegetables — a Vietnamese-style “hamburger” that’s full of flavor.

After the savory dishes, it’s time for dessert. Sample a delightful fruit mix with condensed milk and crushed ice, a local favorite.

Before ending the evening, duck into a hidden alley to discover a cozy, vintage café that serves Hanoi’s famous egg coffee — a creamy, sweet concoction that surprises and satisfies. If coffee isn’t your thing, enjoy a cold local beer instead.

Finally, treat yourself to Hanoi’s iconic ice cream — a nostalgic treat beloved by generations of locals.

Overnight in Hanoi, with a full heart and a happy belly — the perfect way to remember this unforgettable day.

After days filled with unforgettable memories, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural encounters, it’s now time to say goodbye. Enjoy your final moments of leisure — perhaps a quiet walk, a last bowl of phở, or simply time to reflect on your incredible journey across Vietnam.

At the appointed time, our Vivutravel private guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you to the airport. With heartfelt thanks for choosing Vietnam and for traveling with Vivutravel, we bid you a warm farewell.

We trust your Vietnam holiday has been more than just a trip — but a meaningful and enriching experience, filled with beauty, flavor, and connection.

We hope to welcome you back again soon to explore even more of our charming land.

Goodbye and see you again!