The Best of Vietnam – 15 days from Hanoi

Vietnam truly deserves to be among the top destinations to visit in your lifetime. The country is famed for its peaceful countryside, lush rice paddies, rugged mountains, vibrant ethnic cultures, stunning white-sand beaches, spectacular bays, mysterious pagodas, and rich historical sites. Traveling to Vietnam with Vivutravel is the perfect way to immerse yourself in this incredible land, and your holiday will be nothing short of unforgettable.

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi), you will be warmly welcomed by our experienced English-speaking guide and private driver, then transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Overnight in Hanoi.

If your stay in Hanoi coincides with the weekend, don’t miss the chance to explore the vibrant night market near Hoan Kiem Lake. The area comes alive with walking streets, red lanterns, delicious local street food, and Vietnamese-style souvenirs—a perfect introduction to the charm of Hanoi by night.

Ranked among the world’s top travel destinations, Hanoi is a city where history, culture, and charm blend seamlessly. With over 1,000 years of heritage, the capital of Vietnam enchants visitors with picturesque lakes, tree-lined boulevards, flowers on bicycles, and of course, world-famous cuisine.

05:30 – Morning in Hanoi’s Soul
Rise early for an unforgettable morning walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter. At this peaceful hour, join locals as they perform Tai Chi and other exercises in the soft light of dawn—an iconic Hanoi ritual. It’s also the rare moment to experience the quiet charm of the Old Quarter before the city awakens.

07:00 – Pho Breakfast
Savor an authentic bowl of Pho, Vietnam’s most beloved noodle soup, and a must-try Hanoian breakfast.

08:00 – Cultural Exploration Begins
Start your day with a visit to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, offering a fascinating insight into the lives of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. Explore indoor exhibitions of costumes, artifacts, and rituals, and stroll through life-size replicas of traditional houses in the open-air garden.

Next, head to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, built in 1070. Originally dedicated to Confucius, the temple now honors the country’s scholars and symbolizes Vietnam’s long-standing respect for education.

12:00 – Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local eatery.

14:00 – The Famous Train Street
Visit the unique Hanoi Train Street, where you’ll witness a train pass just inches away from homes and cafés. Capture this thrilling sight and enjoy a cup of coffee at Train Track Café while soaking in this fascinating slice of city life.

15:30 – Ho Chi Minh Complex & Iconic Landmarks
Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (view from outside), located in Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam’s independence in 1945. Then, stroll to see the Presidential Palace and his humble stilt house.

Just nearby is the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, shaped like a blooming lotus—a symbol of purity and one of Hanoi’s most photographed landmarks.

Overnight in Hanoi.

After breakfast, depart from Hanoi at 09:00 AM for a scenic 2.5-hour drive (150 km) to Halong Bay, traveling along modern highways that link Hanoi, Hai Phong, and Halong. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is famed for its stunning seascapes, where thousands of limestone islands and islets rise dramatically from emerald waters, forming one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of Asia.

11:30–12:00 – Upon arrival, board your luxury junk cruise and receive a warm welcome with a glass of wine and a fresh local seafood lunch. As the boat glides deeper into the bay, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of towering cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters.

In the afternoon, enjoy guided visits to some of Halong’s most iconic sites:

• The Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, known for its spectacular rock formations and vast chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites.

• Ti Top Island, where you can relax on the white-sand beach or hike to the top for panoramic views of the bay.

As the sun sets, your cruise will anchor in a tranquil area. Spend the evening enjoying the peaceful ambiance of Halong Bay by night.

Overnight on board.

They say no trip to Vietnam is complete without a journey to Halong Bay, and especially an overnight stay on a romantic cruise. Described as majestic, mysterious, and awe-inspiring, Halong Bay is a natural masterpiece—a gallery of limestone sculptures carved by nature.

After breakfast on board, embark on a small sampan to explore a hidden lagoon, where the quiet morning and misty limestone peaks create a dreamlike atmosphere.

The cruise then continues to the lesser-traveled Bai Tu Long Bay, passing iconic islets such as Human Head Island, Turtle Island, and Duck Islet—even gliding by the filming location of the classic movie Indochine.

Around noon, return to the harbor and transfer back to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi for your flight to Hue (operated by Vietnam Airlines).
If time permits, stop en route to visit Phu Lang Pottery Village, renowned for its ancient techniques and charming riverside setting.

Upon arrival at Hue Airport, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in.

Overnight in Hue.

Begin your morning with an authentic cyclo ride through the most iconic and picturesque corners of Hue. Riding a cyclo is not only a relaxing way to explore the city, but also a cultural experience in itself—locals and travelers alike enjoy the gentle pace, perfect for taking in the sights, sounds, and rhythm of life in this ancient capital.

Your ride crosses the historic Trang Tien Bridge over the Perfume River, leading you into Dong Ba Market, a lively hub of local life where stalls overflow with colorful goods, spices, and traditional snacks.

Continue to the magnificent Imperial Citadel, the former royal city of the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945). Walk through its vast courtyards, gates, and palaces to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s regal past and distinctive royal architecture.

In the afternoon, transfer by private car to visit the two most impressive royal tombs:

• King Minh Mang’s Tomb, a harmonious blend of architecture and nature nestled on the western bank of the Perfume River. Its serene layout reflects the Confucian ideals of balance and symmetry.

• King Khai Dinh’s Tomb, the most elaborate and uniquely designed of all. Though the smallest, it’s famed for its fusion of Eastern and Western styles—mixing Vietnamese tradition with French Gothic and Roman architecture. Construction took 11 years and came at a high national cost, but its intricate interior mosaic work remains breathtaking.

On your way back, make a brief stop at the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, perched peacefully on the riverbank. This historic temple not only offers stunning views of the Perfume River, but is also a site of deep spiritual and political significance—especially remembered for the 1963 self-immolation of monk Thich Quang Duc.

Conclude the day with a dragon boat ride along the Perfume River, peacefully drifting back to the city center as the sun sets.

Overnight in Hue.

After breakfast, depart Hue for Hoi An, one of the most charming and culturally rich destinations in Vietnam. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An is a remarkably well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Its timeless architecture, winding alleys, and riverside ambiance reflect a harmonious blend of indigenous and foreign influences.

Your scenic drive takes you along the coastal route, passing the tranquil fishing village of Lang Co, then climbing the majestic Hai Van Pass—also known as the Pass of Ocean Clouds—offering panoramic views of the sea and surrounding mountains.

En route, stop in Danang to visit:

• The Cham Museum, home to the world’s most extensive collection of Cham sculpture, showcasing the artistic legacy of the ancient Champa Kingdom.

• The Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone and marble hills known for their caves, temples, and panoramic views—a revered pilgrimage site for centuries.

Upon arrival in Hoi An, enjoy free time to wander through the Ancient Town on foot. Discover colorful shophouses, centuries-old assembly halls, peaceful riverside cafés, and lantern-lit streets that come alive in the evening.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Today offers a hands-on journey into the authentic rural life of central Vietnam. The Farming & Fishing Life Tour gives you the rare opportunity to connect with local farmers and fishermen, gaining firsthand insight into their daily lives and traditional practices.

Your guide will meet you at the hotel, then begin a leisurely cycling trip along peaceful country roads. Along the way, you’ll witness scenes of rural Vietnam: buffalo grazing in rice paddies, ducks swimming in the irrigation canals, and farmers working beneath their conical hats. The landscapes are as photogenic as they are tranquil.

Arrive at a charming organic vegetable village, where you’ll join local farmers in watering plants, hoeing the soil, and learning how traditional herbs and vegetables are cultivated. One unforgettable highlight is riding a water buffalo through the fields—a fun and symbolic way to connect with farming heritage.

Next, head to the riverbank and board a local boat to cruise toward the Cua Dai Estuary, where the river meets the sea. Here, learn traditional fishing techniques, including casting nets and rowing Vietnamese basket boats—a unique circular vessel used for generations.

Explore the serene coconut-palm waterways, once a site of conflict during the war, now a peaceful maze of nature and history. Your guide will share stories of the hardships once endured in this region.

Back on board, enjoy a fresh local lunch with a cold beer or soft drink as you float gently on the river.

Return to your hotel by car.
Overnight in Hoi An.

Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Take this opportunity to relax by the beach, explore hidden corners of the Ancient Town, browse charming boutiques, or sip a coffee by the riverside. Hoi An’s peaceful atmosphere and timeless beauty make it the perfect place to slow down and soak in the essence of Vietnam.

In the evening, our tour guide will provide you with tickets to the spectacular Hoi An Memories Show – an unmissable cultural performance staged on a grand outdoor platform with a capacity of over 3,300 spectators. The show is a breathtaking blend of music, dance, light, and storytelling, taking you on a journey through 400 years of Hoi An’s history as a vibrant trading port.

The performance highlights the elegance of the traditional Ao Dai, and features over 500 performers in a production that’s both poetic and cinematic.

You’ll make your own way to the venue, conveniently located just a few kilometers from your accommodation.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Enjoy your morning at leisure—relax at the hotel, sip coffee in the ancient town, or take a final stroll along the riverside.

At the appropriate time, our driver will pick you up and transfer you to Da Nang Airport for your short flight to Ho Chi Minh City—Vietnam’s dynamic southern hub known for its bustling energy, soaring skyscrapers, street food stalls, and ornate temples.

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you will be met by our local guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Optional Activity – Saigon After Dark Vespa Tour:
In the evening, for those seeking an authentic and exhilarating experience, hop on a vintage Vespa scooter and ride pillion through the vibrant streets of Saigon. Escorted by experienced local drivers, you’ll explore the city like a true insider.

This thrilling tour takes you through:

• The lively Chinese district with its colorful markets and traditional shops

• A fragrant flower market full of blooms and local life

• A hidden Buddhist pagoda, a peaceful sanctuary few tourists ever find

• Iconic landmarks like the Saigon Opera House and Central Post Office, both designed by Gustave Eiffel

This is not just a city tour—it’s an immersion into Saigon’s heartbeat, full of surprises, flavors, and unforgettable moments.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Your full-day exploration begins at 08:00 as we depart bustling Ho Chi Minh City for a scenic drive to the Cu Chi Tunnels, passing through peaceful countryside dotted with rice paddies and rubber plantations.

Upon arrival, watch a short documentary film to better understand the incredible engineering behind this underground world. Then, venture into the tunnel maze itself—an astonishing network that once housed thousands of soldiers during the Vietnam War. You’ll see camouflaged trapdoors, mantraps, bomb craters, and even the wreckage of a destroyed American tank.

After this eye-opening experience, return to Ho Chi Minh City around 13:00 for an afternoon city tour filled with both cultural and historical highlights:

• Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office: iconic examples of French colonial architecture, standing as proud reminders of Saigon’s elegant past.

• Reunification Palace: once the Presidential Palace, where the Vietnam War officially ended on April 30, 1975, when a North Vietnamese tank crashed through its gates.

• War Remnants Museum: formerly known as the Museum of American War Crimes, this museum presents a powerful and emotional perspective on the war, with compelling photographs and preserved military equipment in the courtyard.

• Ben Thanh Market: end the tour at this bustling central market—a great place to shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, textiles, and sample local snacks. You may choose to stay here longer and return to the hotel on your own.

Tour ends around 18:00.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

At around 08:00, your guide will pick you up at the hotel for a scenic 2-hour drive (90 km) south to Ben Tre, known as the “land of coconuts” and one of the most authentic gateways to the Mekong Delta.

Upon arrival, embark on a peaceful boat cruise along the Ham Luong River (a branch of the Mekong), with stops at local workshops to witness:

• Traditional brick-making using centuries-old methods

• Coconut processing, where every part of the coconut is turned into useful products

• Mat weaving in a family-run home using simple handlooms

Continue your journey into the countryside, walking through a quiet village to experience daily life in the Delta. Then hop on a bicycle for a gentle ride under the shade of dense coconut palm plantations, soaking in the tranquil rhythm of rural Vietnam.

In the afternoon, drive to Can Tho, the vibrant capital of the Mekong Delta and home to its most famous floating markets.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel, enjoy some leisure time to relax or explore on your own.
Overnight in Can Tho.

Early this morning, embark on a boat cruise to Cai Rang Floating Market—the largest and most vibrant floating market in the Mekong Delta. This is truly a highlight of any Vietnam tour, where dozens of colorful boats gather to sell fresh produce, from pineapples to pumpkins, creating a lively scene of trade on water.

Witness the daily life along the Mekong canals, with locals rowing between boats, cooking, bargaining, and living on their floating homes. This authentic market experience offers a deep insight into the unique river culture of southern Vietnam.

After the market, cruise further into smaller canals and visit:

• A local rice husking mill

• A rice noodle-making workshop, where you can see how this everyday staple is crafted by hand

These stops offer a glimpse into the traditional crafts and livelihoods of the Mekong people.

Around noon, return to Can Tho Airport for your short flight to Phu Quoc Island—Vietnam’s tropical paradise in the Gulf of Thailand.

Upon arrival, transfer to your beachside resort in Phu Quoc.
Check in and overnight in Phu Quoc.

A jewel of Vietnam, Phu Quoc Island is a perfect tropical retreat, famed for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush green mountains. With palm trees leaning over gentle waves and sunsets that melt into the horizon, Phu Quoc is truly a paradise to unwind and reflect on your unforgettable Vietnam journey.

Spend your morning and early afternoon at leisure—relax by the pool, swim in the turquoise sea, or explore nearby beaches.

At 17:00, you’ll be picked up at your hotel and transferred to Dinh Cau Pier, where a sunset cruise awaits.

As the boat glides into open water, watch the sun dip below the ocean, painting the sky with hues of gold, purple, and pink. Enjoy a delicious dinner on board, featuring fresh squid soup and local delicacies, while gentle waves rock the boat.

After dinner, it’s time for a fun and unique experience: squid fishing under the stars. Try your hand at this traditional nighttime activity, guided by the locals.

Return to the pier around 21:00 and transfer back to your hotel.
Overnight in Phu Quoc.

Today is a free day for you to relax and enjoy the tranquil charm of Phu Quoc Island at your own pace.

Whether you prefer to unwind on the beach, sip a coconut under swaying palm trees, or swim in the crystal-clear sea, this is the perfect time to recharge.

For those feeling more adventurous, we suggest hiring a taxi or motorbike to explore some of Phu Quoc’s cultural and natural highlights, such as:

• Phu Quoc Prison (Coconut Tree Prison) – a haunting historical site from the wartime era

• Phu Quoc National Park – home to dense forests, mountain trails, and diverse wildlife

• A nearby fishing village, where you can witness the daily life of local fishermen and sample fresh seafood

Overnight in Phu Quoc.

Enjoy your final morning at leisure on the beautiful island of Phu Quoc—take a walk along the beach, sip a last cup of Vietnamese coffee, or simply relax and reflect on your journey.

At the appropriate time, we will transfer you to the airport for your flight back to Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll connect to your international departure flight.

We sincerely hope you have had a wonderful and memorable experience with us in Vietnam.
Vivutravel thanks you for choosing us as your travel companion and looks forward to welcoming you again on your next adventure.

Goodbye and see you again!