Vietnam tour from mountain to sea – 18 days from Hanoi

Vietnam is truly one of the most captivating travel destinations in the world. From its peaceful countryside dotted with lush green rice paddies and dramatic mountain landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, exotic ethnic communities, stunning white-sand beaches, and legendary historical sites — Vietnam offers something unforgettable for every traveler.

Your journey begins in Hanoi, the elegant and historic capital of Vietnam. Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by Vivutravel’s experienced English-speaking tour guide and private driver, who will transfer you to your hotel for check-in and relaxation.

🌃 Optional: Weekend Experience in Hanoi
If your stay coincides with the weekend, don’t miss the lively night market around Hoan Kiem Lake. With pedestrian-only streets glowing under red lanterns, mouthwatering local street food, and unique Vietnamese souvenirs, it’s a vibrant and authentic introduction to Hanoi’s charm.

🛏 Overnight in Hanoi

13:45 – Be picked up from your hotel by taxi and head to one of Hanoi’s most iconic sights — the famous Train Street. Located just beyond the hustle and bustle of the Old Quarter, this narrow alley is home to families living mere feet from the railway tracks. Arrive in time to witness the 2:30 PM departing train, a thrilling and photogenic moment as the train rumbles through this tight residential street. Enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee at the cozy Train Track Coffee Shop while immersing yourself in the surreal blend of local life and railway spectacle. For those who linger, another train is scheduled to arrive at 3:30 PM.

15:00 – Hop onto a traditional cyclo for a relaxing ride through the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter. This is your chance to observe the everyday rhythm of Hanoians navigating the city’s energetic traffic, while enjoying a slow-paced view of historical buildings, artisan shops, and street vendors.

16:00 – Begin your walking and street food tour — an unforgettable culinary experience made even more magical if it’s the weekend, when much of the Old Quarter becomes a pedestrian-only zone, buzzing with local energy, music, and street performances.

Start with a visit to the bustling Dong Xuan Market, where your guide will introduce you to Vietnam’s diverse food culture. See and sample traditional ingredients — from fresh herbs to seafood, tropical fruits to dried snacks — and learn how they’re used in daily Vietnamese cooking.

Your first tasting stop is at a local eatery for Bánh Cuốn, a beloved dish made from delicate steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork, mushrooms, and shallots, served with chả lụa (Vietnamese pork sausage) and tangy fish sauce. Watch the chef expertly prepare the rolls fresh before your eyes.

Continue your walk through the heart of the Old Quarter, stopping to sample Hanoi’s flame-grilled specialties at a grilled pork street stall. Savor the rich flavor of smoky pork, served either as skewers or inside crusty Vietnamese baguettes — a delicious twist on the classic bánh mì.

Next up is dessert — a refreshing mix of seasonal tropical fruits served with condensed milk and crushed ice, a Hanoi favorite, perfect to beat the late afternoon heat.

No street food tour is complete without a cup of the legendary egg coffee, a creamy, rich Hanoi invention served in a charming hidden café tucked behind the narrow alleyways. If coffee isn’t your preference, a local cold beer is always an excellent choice.

Finally, end your evening on a sweet note with a stop at Hanoi’s most famous ice cream shop, a place beloved by locals for generations.

Return to your hotel by cyclo. Overnight in Hanoi.

05:30 AM – Begin your day with an early morning discovery of Hanoi, a magical time when the city unveils its soul. Head to Hoan Kiem Lake, the spiritual heart of Hanoi, where locals gather at dawn for morning exercises. Watch and even join in as elderly Hanoians perform Tai Chi, aerobics, and group dancing — a fascinating ritual that reflects the city’s balance between modernity and tradition.

From there, enjoy a peaceful stroll through the usually bustling Old Quarter, a rare moment when its narrow lanes are quiet, the storefronts closed, and life momentarily paused. It’s the perfect time to observe local vendors setting up their stalls and catch the first golden light filtering over colonial rooftops.

07:00 AM – Treat yourself to a traditional Hanoi breakfast with a steaming bowl of Phở bò (Vietnamese beef noodle soup), served at a local eatery known for its authentic flavors. No trip to Hanoi is complete without tasting this world-renowned dish right at its birthplace.

08:00 AM – Continue your cultural journey with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, beginning at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the revered national leader lies in rest. Located in historic Ba Dinh Square, this is the site where Ho Chi Minh read Vietnam’s Declaration of Independence in 1945.

From there, take a short walk through the tranquil compound to the Presidential Palace, a beautiful French colonial structure, and Ho Chi Minh’s simple stilt house, a symbol of his humility and dedication.

Nearby, visit the One Pillar Pagoda, a striking lotus-shaped Buddhist structure and one of Vietnam’s most iconic landmarks.

Late Morning – Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, built in 1070 to honor Confucius. Wander through its serene courtyards, pavilions, and stone steles as you learn about centuries of scholarly tradition and the reverence for education in Vietnamese culture.

Lunch at a local restaurant, featuring traditional Hanoian cuisine (restaurant recommendation available on request).

Afternoon – Explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, a fascinating insight into the country’s 54 ethnic minority groups. The indoor exhibits showcase traditional clothing, tools, and ceremonial items, while the outdoor garden features full-scale replicas of traditional houses from various regions across Vietnam.

Evening – Conclude your immersive day with a charming water puppet performance, a unique northern Vietnamese art form that tells folk tales and legends through puppets dancing on water, accompanied by live traditional music.

Overnight in Hanoi.

08:30 AM – After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel for a scenic drive to Sapa via the new national highway. The journey offers stunning views of the Vietnamese countryside — from vast rice paddies to picturesque hillscapes and misty mountain ranges. Along the way, you’ll witness snapshots of rural life that unfold like a moving painting.

14:30 PM – Arrive in the charming mountain town of Sapa, nestled in the Hoàng Liên Son range. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take a brief rest to refresh after the drive.

15:30 PM – In the late afternoon, take a leisurely guided walk to Cat Cat Village, home of the Black H’Mong ethnic group. Located just a few kilometers from Sapa town, this quaint village lies in a beautiful valley surrounded by terraced rice fields and rolling hills.

You’ll stroll along stone-paved paths, visit traditional wooden houses, and observe local handicrafts like textile weaving and silver jewelry making. Don’t miss the picturesque Cat Cat waterfall, a peaceful spot where locals gather and relax.

This visit offers an intimate look into ethnic minority life — from their unique clothing and customs to their deep connection with nature and community.

Overnight in Sapa.

Sapa, nestled in the misty hills of northern Vietnam, is home to an extraordinary patchwork of cultures, landscapes, and color. The rolling green mountains are vividly contrasted by the brightly dyed fabrics and intricate embroidery worn by the region’s diverse hill tribe communities — the Black H’mong, Day, and others — each telling their own story through traditional patterns and symbols.

Morning – After breakfast at your hotel, embark on one of Sapa’s most scenic trekking adventures. Your guide and driver will take you on a short drive out of town to begin your hike toward Lao Chai and Ta Van Villages.

Your trek begins with a gentle descent into the valley, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of majestic terraced rice fields, winding rivers, and distant peaks blanketed in mist. As you walk, you’ll encounter Black H’mong locals in their indigo-dyed attire, working in the fields or selling handcrafted textiles. Along the way, stop by ethnic minority homes to gain insight into their centuries-old customs, ancestral farming techniques, and daily rhythms.

Continue your walk to Ta Van, home of the Day people, where the cultural fusion of the region is even more evident. Your guide will help interpret their stories and showcase their vibrant heritage — often overlooked but deeply rooted in Vietnamese highland history.

Afternoon – Return to Sapa by private car. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, explore Sapa town, shop for local handicrafts at the market, or sip warm tea in a cozy mountain-view café.

Overnight in Sapa.

09:00 – Begin your day with an unforgettable journey to Fansipan Peak, often referred to as “The Roof of Indochina”, standing proudly at 3,143 meters above sea level.

Upon arrival at the base of the mountain, board the state-of-the-art Fansipan Legend Cable Car, one of the longest and highest of its kind in the world. During the 20-minute ride, you’ll glide above lush valleys, terraced rice fields, and misty mountains – a truly spectacular aerial panorama of Sapa’s landscape.

Reach the cable car station at 2,800 meters altitude, and take time to soak in the views, explore the spiritual pagoda complex, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. You may choose to walk the final steps or take the funicular to the summit, where you’ll touch the peak of Vietnam and enjoy sweeping views over the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Don’t forget to capture the moment with photos at the Fansipan summit marker.

Return to Sapa town for lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon – Depart Sapa and enjoy a scenic drive to Bac Ha Town (approx. 120 km / 3 hours), passing through picturesque highland terrain and rural villages.

Upon arrival in Bac Ha, check in at your hotel and take a short walk to Ban Pho Village, home to the colorfully dressed Flower H’mong people. Here, traditional wooden houses rest peacefully against the backdrop of rolling hills, and you’ll witness the unspoiled charm of daily life in Vietnam’s northern highlands.

Next, visit the H’mong King Palace, a restored yellow chateau that once belonged to Hoang A Tuong – a local H’mong lord who ruled under French colonial patronage. Built in 1914 and completed in 1921, the structure stands as a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles.

Overnight in Bac Ha.

The colorful hill tribe markets of Northern Vietnam are not just places of trade – they are vibrant social gatherings where ethnic minorities from the surrounding mountains come together to sell handmade goods, exchange stories, share rice wine, and even find potential lovers. These markets are the beating heart of highland culture and a must-see highlight of any Sapa or Bac Ha tour.

Morning:
After breakfast, depart for one of the region’s weekly ethnic markets, depending on the day of the week:

• Tuesday – Coc Ly Market

• Wednesday – Cao Son Market

• Thursday – Lung Khau Nhin Market

• Saturday – Can Cau Market

• Sunday – Bac Ha Market, Muong Hum Market, or Muong Khuong Market

At the market, witness a kaleidoscope of traditional costumes, buffalo and livestock trading, home-brewed rice wine, local produce, handmade embroidery, and unique handicrafts. Observe the rich diversity of ethnic groups such as the Flower H’mong, Tay, Nung, Phu La, and Dao, all mingling in a spirited and authentic cultural atmosphere.

Your guide will help you navigate the bustling stalls, interpret local interactions, and introduce you to regional customs.

Afternoon:
Enjoy lunch at a local eatery before departing for the long but scenic drive back to Hanoi (approx. 5–6 hours).

Evening:
Arrive in Hanoi and check in to your hotel. Free time to relax after the long journey.

Overnight in Hanoi.

09:00 – Depart from your hotel in Hanoi for a scenic 2.5-hour drive (approx. 150 km) via the modern expressways connecting Hanoi – Hai Phong – Ha Long. En route, enjoy views of the countryside and the Red River Delta.

11:30–12:00 – Upon arrival at the harbor, board your luxury junk cruise and be warmly welcomed with a complimentary glass of wine and a fresh local seafood lunch. As your boat sets sail into the emerald waters of Halong Bay – Vietnam’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site – sit back and enjoy the otherworldly landscape of towering limestone karsts, jungle-covered islands, and peaceful emerald waters.

Throughout the afternoon, the cruise will make several stops for exploration:

• Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) – The most impressive cave in Halong Bay, featuring massive chambers filled with colorful stalactites and stalagmites.

• Ti Top Island – Famous for its powdery white sand beach and panoramic viewpoint. Take a dip in the sea or climb to the summit for stunning photos.

As evening falls, anchor amidst the serene bay and enjoy a peaceful night surrounded by nature.

Dinner will be served on board, followed by time to relax on the sundeck, join optional activities like squid fishing, or simply enjoy the tranquility.

Overnight on board in Halong Bay.

Your Vietnam tour would not be complete without a magical overnight cruise through the majestic seascape of Halong Bay – often described as a natural masterpiece and a living gallery of stone sculptures crafted by nature.

After breakfast on board, board a small sampan boat for a tranquil morning visit to a hidden lagoon, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. As the sun rises, watch Halong Bay awaken in peaceful silence, with only the sound of water gently lapping against your boat.

After returning to the main cruise, the journey continues deeper into Bai Tu Long Bay, cruising past some of the bay’s most iconic islets:

• Human Head Island

• Turtle Island

• Duck Islet
  You’ll also pass by the famous filming site of Indochine, the 1992 Oscar-winning French movie filmed in these surreal waters.

11:30–12:00 – Return to the harbor and disembark. Your driver will meet you and transfer you back to Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi) for your domestic flight to Danang (operated by Vietnam Airlines). If time permits, enjoy a short visit en route to the charming Phu Lang Pottery Village, renowned for its traditional ceramics.

Upon landing at Danang Airport, your local tour guide and driver will welcome you and transfer you to the ancient town of Hoi An. Check-in at your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Today offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic rural life of Vietnam with our Farming & Fishing Life Tour – a hands-on cultural adventure that brings you up close to the everyday lives of local farmers and fishermen.

After breakfast, your tour guide will meet you at your hotel and together you’ll cycle leisurely along peaceful country roads, taking in the tranquil scenery and observing the rhythms of village life. Photo opportunities are endless – from water buffalo plodding through rice paddies, to ducks swimming in canals, and farmers tending their crops.

Stop at a beautiful organic vegetable village, where you’ll:

• Help hoe the soil and water fresh herbs in the garden.

• Ride a water buffalo through the lush green fields – a rare and unforgettable experience.

• Learn about sustainable farming practices and enjoy the crisp air of the countryside.

Next, board a local boat and cruise gently down the river to the point where it flows into the Cua Dai Sea. Here, engage in the life of a traditional fisherman:

• Try your hand at cast-net and round-net fishing.

• Learn how to paddle a traditional Vietnamese basket boat.

• Navigate through the coconut palm-lined waterways once used as hiding spots during wartime, hearing tales of the past from your local guide.

Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch on board, along with a cold beer or soft drink, while floating peacefully on the water.

In the afternoon, return to your hotel by car.

Overnight in Hoi An.

No Vietnam journey is truly complete without spending time in Hoi An Ancient Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most charming and atmospheric destinations in the country. Hoi An is an exceptionally well-preserved Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to 19th centuries. Its unique blend of indigenous and foreign influences is reflected in the traditional architecture, lantern-lit streets, and timeless riverside views.

Today is your free day to enjoy Hoi An at your own pace:

• Cycle through the rice paddies and scenic countryside.

• Browse antique shops and art galleries nestled in the ancient alleys.

• Shop for handmade lanterns, silk garments, and tailor-made clothes.

• Sip coffee or herbal tea at sidewalk cafés and watch daily life pass by.

• Or simply relax on the white sands of Cua Dai Beach and soak up the sunshine.

In the evening, a special cultural experience awaits:

🎭 Hoi An Memories Show
Your tour guide will provide you with entrance tickets to the Hoi An Memories Show – a grand, world-class outdoor performance with seating for up to 3,300 people.

This dazzling spectacle reimagines 400 years of Hoi An’s trading history through:

• Beautifully choreographed dance,

• Traditional Ao Dai costume displays,

• Stunning lighting effects, and

• A vast stage built to represent a whole riverside village.

Note: The theater is just a short walk or ride from your accommodation, and you can make your way there on your own.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Enjoy your morning at leisure to relax or explore more of Hoi An on your own.

At the appropriate time, our driver will pick you up and transfer you to Danang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), operated by Vietnam Airlines.

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City!
A vibrant and dynamic metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s commercial hub, famous for its modern skyscrapers, colonial architecture, historic landmarks, bustling street food, and lively motorbike culture.

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, our driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

✨ Optional Tour – Ho Chi Minh Vespa Tour (Highly Recommended)
Experience the city like a true local from the back of a vintage Vespa scooter, driven by a skilled rider. This immersive journey takes you off the tourist trail and into the heart of Saigon’s neighborhoods, offering a unique and authentic view of the city’s culture and daily life.

Highlights include:

• A ride through the Chinese district of Cholon

• Stops at a fragrant flower market and a hidden Buddhist pagoda

• Visits to the Saigon Opera House and the Central Post Office, both designed by Gustave Eiffel

• Plenty of opportunities for photography, local interaction, and street food sampling

Whether by day or night, this Vespa tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the soul of Saigon.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

08:00 – Depart for Cu Chi Tunnels

Begin your day with a scenic drive from Ho Chi Minh City through the peaceful Vietnamese countryside to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a remarkable underground network used by Viet Cong guerrillas during the Vietnam War.

Upon arrival, you’ll watch a short documentary explaining how the tunnels were constructed and used. Then, spend time exploring the maze of tunnels, learning about the conditions the fighters lived in, and viewing preserved war relics including:

• Ingenious booby traps and hidden entrances

• A captured American tank

• Bomb craters from 500-pound B52 airstrikes

13:00 – Return to Ho Chi Minh City

After this insightful visit, return to the city in time for a local lunch (not included unless arranged).

Afternoon – Ho Chi Minh City Tour

Your city tour begins with visits to the most iconic landmarks:

• Notre Dame Cathedral: Built between 1863 and 1880 by French colonists, it is one of the last remaining Catholic churches in the city.

• Central Post Office: A beautiful example of French colonial architecture designed by Gustave Eiffel.

Next, visit:

• Reunification Palace (Independence Palace): The former residence of the South Vietnamese President and the site of the symbolic end of the Vietnam War on April 30, 1975.

• War Remnants Museum: A sobering but important stop that illustrates the devastating impact of war through powerful photographs and military artifacts.

Finish your day with a visit to:

• Ben Thanh Market: A bustling hub where you can shop for everything from handicrafts and souvenirs to textiles, spices, and traditional ao dai dresses. It’s a great spot to practice bargaining and soak up local energy.

18:00 – Tour Concludes

Return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest. Alternatively, feel free to stay longer at Ben Thanh Market and return to the hotel at your own pace.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Guide: Yes

08:00 – Depart for Ben Tre (Mekong Delta)

After breakfast at your hotel, your guide and driver will pick you up for a 2-hour scenic drive (approx. 90km) to Ben Tre, located in the heart of the Mekong Delta – known for its coconut plantations and tranquil waterways.

Morning – Explore Ben Tre by Boat

Upon arrival, board a traditional boat for a cruise along the Ham Luong River, a branch of the mighty Mekong. The boat will make several stops:

• Brick kiln: See how bricks are traditionally handmade and baked.

• Coconut processing workshop: Learn how locals use every part of the coconut for candy, oil, utensils, and even fuel.

• Mat weaving house: Watch local artisans skillfully weave colorful sleeping mats by hand.

Village Experience

Disembark at a peaceful village, take a short walk through tropical gardens and rural paths, and enjoy:

• A bicycle ride or xe lôi (motorized rickshaw) through lush coconut plantations

• Interaction with local villagers to understand their daily lives and livelihoods

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a rustic riverside restaurant with local specialties like elephant-ear fish, spring rolls, and caramelized pork.

Afternoon – Continue to Can Tho

After lunch, continue the journey by car to Can Tho, the capital of the Mekong Delta and home to the famous floating markets.

• Check-in at your hotel in Can Tho

• Free time at leisure to relax or explore the surroundings

Overnight in Can Tho.

Meals: Breakfast | Guide: Yes (Can Tho only)

Early Morning – Visit Cai Rang Floating Market

After an early breakfast at your hotel, transfer to the pier and board a boat to explore the famous Cai Rang Floating Market – the largest and most bustling in the Mekong Delta. The market is best experienced in the early morning when it’s most active.

• Watch local vendors selling goods directly from their boats: tropical fruits, vegetables, coffee, breakfast noodles, and more.

• Observe the daily rhythm of river life as small boats weave in and out of larger trading vessels.

• Optional stop for breakfast on a boat (like a bowl of hot Hu Tieu or Banh Mi from a local vendor).

Visit Traditional Workshops

After visiting the market:

• Take a walk through a nearby village

• Visit a rice husking mill

• Stop at a rice noodle-making workshop where you can see how fresh “bánh phở” or vermicelli noodles are produced

Late Morning – Transfer to Can Tho Airport

Around noon, transfer to Can Tho Airport for your short domestic flight to Phu Quoc Island.

Afternoon – Arrival in Phu Quoc

Upon arrival at Phu Quoc Airport, meet your local driver and transfer to your beach resort.

• Check-in and relax at your hotel

• Free time to enjoy the beach, the pool, or explore the island at your own pace

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Guide: Yes (afternoon tour only)

Morning to Afternoon – Free Day at Leisure

Spend the day relaxing in paradise. Phu Quoc is a tropical gem known for:

• Soft white-sand beaches like Long Beach or Bai Sao

• Crystal-clear turquoise waters

• Fresh seafood restaurants, beach cafés, and vibrant night markets

• Optional activities: snorkeling, kayaking, visiting Phu Quoc Prison Museum, fish sauce factory, pepper farm, or simply lounging by the sea

Enjoy the island at your own pace.

Evening – Sunset Squid Fishing Cruise

17:00 – Your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to Dinh Cau Pier, where you’ll board a local boat for a memorable sunset cruise.

• Sail into the Gulf of Thailand as the sun begins to set – a magical sight with vivid orange and purple skies reflecting on the water

• Enjoy dinner onboard, featuring local delicacies including the famous squid soup

• After dinner, try your hand at night squid fishing, a favorite local activity. With a bit of luck, you’ll catch your own squid!

21:00 – Return to the pier and transfer back to your hotel.

Free day at leisure and overnight in Phu Quoc.

Meals: Breakfast | Guide: Airport transfer only

Enjoy a leisurely morning at your resort – relax by the beach, take a final swim, or sip coffee as you soak in the last views of tropical paradise.

At the appropriate time, our driver will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to Phu Quoc Airport for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City, where you will connect to your international departure flight.