Vietnam heritage tour – 15 days from Hanoi

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our experienced English-speaking tour guide and driver, who will escort you to your hotel in central Hanoi for check-in.

If your arrival falls on a weekend, take the opportunity to visit the Hanoi Weekend Night Market near Hoan Kiem Lake. Here you’ll experience the lively heartbeat of the city through walking streets illuminated by red lanterns, indulge in local street food delicacies, and browse handmade Vietnamese souvenirs – a vibrant start to your journey.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Ranked 12th among the world’s 25 best travel destinations in 2018, Hanoi – the heart of Vietnam – is a city where ancient heritage meets modern charm. With over 1,000 years of history, it offers visitors tree-lined boulevards, lakeside serenity, timeless architecture, and a rich street food culture that delights every sense.

08:00 – Cultural Immersion Begins
After breakfast, your tour guide picks you up from your hotel to begin a full-day discovery of the capital.

Start at the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where you’ll visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – the resting place of the beloved national hero who led Vietnam to independence. Located in Ba Dinh Square, it was here that President Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam’s independence on September 2, 1945.

From the mausoleum, take a short walk to see the elegant Presidential Palace and the humble House on Stilts, where Uncle Ho lived and worked.

Next door is the One Pillar Pagoda, a symbol of Hanoi with its unique lotus-inspired architecture – a must-see spiritual and historical site.

10:30 – Museum of Ethnology
Explore Vietnam’s incredible cultural diversity at the Museum of Ethnology, showcasing the 54 ethnic groups through rich exhibits, traditional clothing, ritual objects, and life-sized models of traditional homes in the spacious outdoor garden.

12:00 – Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant. Your guide will recommend a menu based on your tastes and dietary preferences – a great chance to experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

13:30 – Temple of Literature
Continue your journey with a visit to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, built in 1070. Originally dedicated to Confucius, it later became a symbol of scholarly achievement and remains a place of peace and reflection amidst the city bustle.

15:00 – Return to Your Hotel
The tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel. Enjoy the evening at leisure or opt to explore Hanoi’s vibrant streets on your own.

08:00 – Depart for Halong Bay
After breakfast at your hotel, depart Hanoi for a scenic 3.5-hour drive (170 km) through the Red River Delta. Along the way, admire picturesque landscapes with endless green paddy fields and local farmers at work—perfect for photography lovers.

Midway, enjoy a short stop at a local handicraft workshop, where you can observe skilled artisans creating embroidered paintings, stone carvings, and jewelry featuring Vietnamese-mined gems such as star rubies and sapphires.

11:30–12:00 – Welcome Aboard the Halong Cruise
Arrive at Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its dramatic seascape of thousands of limestone karsts and islets rising from emerald waters.

Board your luxury wooden junk, where the crew welcomes you with a glass of wine and a fresh seafood lunch.

As the junk sets sail into the bay’s tranquil waters, take in the majestic beauty surrounding you—towering cliffs, hidden coves, and jade-green waters. This is a perfect time to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

Afternoon Highlights

• Visit Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave – the largest and most spectacular cave in Halong Bay, famous for its incredible stalagmites and stalactites formations.

• Relax at Ti Top Island – swim, sunbathe on the white sand beach, or hike up to the summit for panoramic views over Halong Bay.

Evening on the Bay
Return to the junk, enjoy a delicious dinner on board, and unwind under the stars. Whether you’re sipping cocktails on the deck or simply enjoying the serenity of the bay, this overnight cruise offers a magical escape into nature.

Overnight on board in the calm waters of Halong Bay.

No Vietnam journey is truly complete without experiencing the magic of Halong Bay—a place often described as majestic, mysterious, and mesmerizing. Words alone cannot fully capture the grandeur of this natural wonder, where limestone karsts rise like ancient sculptures from the emerald sea.

Morning Cruise & Hidden Lagoon Discovery
Wake up to the peaceful sounds of the bay as the sun rises over the limestone peaks. After breakfast on board, board a small sampan boat and explore a secret lagoon, tucked away and framed by towering cliffs. This serene moment, with the mountains still veiled in mist, is one of Halong’s hidden treasures.

Bai Tu Long Bay Scenic Cruising
Continue cruising into the less-traveled waters of Bai Tu Long Bay, sailing past distinctively shaped islets such as:

• Human Head Island

• Turtle Island

• Duck Islet

You’ll also pass by the filming location of the movie Indochine, adding a touch of cinematic magic to your journey.

Return to Harbor & Transfer to Hanoi
Around noon, return to the harbor where your driver awaits. Begin the drive back to Hanoi, enjoying the countryside views one last time.

Evening Departure to Central Vietnam
Upon arrival in Hanoi, have dinner (on your own) before heading to the railway station for your overnight train to Dong Hoi, the gateway to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park and its spectacular caves.

Overnight onboard the train to Dong Hoi – a unique local experience, blending adventure with comfort as you travel through the heart of Vietnam.

Upon arrival at Dong Hoi railway station, you will be warmly greeted by our guide and driver. Transfer to a local restaurant to enjoy a Vietnamese breakfast and get refreshed before starting your exciting day of cave exploration.

08:00 – Depart for Paradise Cave
After breakfast, begin your scenic drive to Paradise Cave (Thien Duong Cave), nestled deep within the Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

09:40 – Explore Paradise Cave
Upon arrival, take a golf buggy ride through the forest to reach the cave entrance. Discovered by the British Caving Research Association in 2005, Paradise Cave stretches an impressive 31 km, making it the longest dry cave in Asia.
Step into a magical world of towering limestone formations, glittering crystal-like stalactites, and grand cathedral-like chambers—an awe-inspiring underground masterpiece. The deeper you go, the more mesmerizing it becomes.

12:00 – Lunch in Phong Nha Village
Return to Phong Nha Village and enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.

13:30 – Boat Trip to Phong Nha Cave
Board a traditional boat for a relaxing ride along the Son River to reach Phong Nha Cave, renowned for its historical and geological significance.
Beyond its stunning karst formations and underground river, Phong Nha is part of the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail, used during the Vietnam War to transport supplies to the South.
As you glide through the cave’s cool waters, admire its ancient stalactites and reflect on its storied past.

17:00 – Return to Dong Hoi
After the tour, transfer back to Dong Hoi City for check-in and leisure time.

Overnight in Dong Hoi.

After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our scenic journey southward toward Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. En route, we’ll explore significant historical landmarks that played a key role during the Vietnam War.

Visit Vinh Moc Tunnels
Our first stop is at the Vinh Moc Tunnels, a remarkable underground village built by the local people to shelter from intense U.S. bombings. The tunnel complex includes kitchens, living quarters, meeting rooms, and even a maternity room, offering a powerful glimpse into the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people during wartime.

Visit Quang Tri Citadel
Continue to Quang Tri Citadel, a 19th-century military stronghold of the Nguyen Dynasty and later, a fiercely contested site during the 1972 Easter Offensive. Although heavily damaged, the citadel remains a solemn symbol of Vietnamese resistance and sacrifice.

Lunch in Dong Ha Town
Stop for lunch at a local restaurant in Dong Ha, the capital of Quang Tri Province, and once a key military base during the war.

Afternoon Arrival in Hue
Resume your journey to Hue, arriving by late afternoon. Check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Overnight in Hue.

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full-day exploration of Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, steeped in history and royal elegance.

Morning: Visit the Imperial Citadel
Your first stop is the Imperial Citadel, a vast complex built in the early 19th century by Emperor Gia Long. Enclosed within massive walls and surrounded by a moat, the citadel once housed the Nguyen Emperors and their royal court. Explore the impressive gates, pavilions, temples, and the Forbidden Purple City while gaining a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s imperial past.

Dragon Boat Trip & Thien Mu Pagoda
Next, enjoy a peaceful dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, a serene and scenic journey that leads you to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda. This seven-story pagoda is one of Hue’s most sacred religious sites and holds historical importance, notably associated with monk Thich Quang Duc, who famously self-immolated in 1963 in protest against the South Vietnamese government.

Afternoon: Royal Tombs of the Nguyen Emperors
Continue to visit two of the most majestic royal mausoleums:

• Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang – Set amidst pine forests and tranquil lakes, this tomb features harmonious architecture reflecting Confucian ideals.

• Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh – A unique fusion of Eastern and Western design, this tomb is known for its lavish decoration and intricate mosaic interiors.

Evening: Royal Dinner with Traditional Music
In the evening, experience a memorable Royal Dinner where you will be dressed in traditional royal costumes, enjoying a regal meal once served to the Nguyen Emperors. The dinner is accompanied by live court music performances, offering an authentic glimpse into royal life in ancient Hue.

Overnight in Hue.

After breakfast, depart Hue and begin your scenic drive south to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most atmospheric towns in Vietnam. Along the way, enjoy one of the most beautiful coastal roads in Vietnam with several remarkable stops:

Lang Co Fishing Village
Make a photo stop at Lang Co Beach, a tranquil stretch of white sand nestled between a blue lagoon and the East Sea. This peaceful village is home to traditional fishing communities and offers spectacular views.

Hai Van Pass (Pass of Ocean Clouds)
Ascend the Hai Van Pass, a dramatic mountain road with sweeping ocean views and lush green hillsides. This natural border between Hue and Danang offers one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes.

Cham Museum – Danang
Continue to Danang to visit the Cham Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of ancient Cham sculptures, some dating back to the 7th century. The museum provides fascinating insight into the art and spiritual beliefs of the once-mighty Champa Kingdom.

Marble Mountains
Next, explore the Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone and marble hills famous for their caves, Buddhist sanctuaries, and panoramic views. Climb the stone steps to discover hidden temples and shrines carved into the rock — a spiritual pilgrimage site for centuries.

Arrival in Hoi An
Arrive in Hoi An in the late afternoon. This exceptionally well-preserved trading port from the 15th–19th centuries is known for its charming architecture, lantern-lit streets, and fusion of cultures. After hotel check-in, enjoy free time to:

• Take a leisurely walking tour through the Ancient Town

• Visit iconic landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, or the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese

• Browse local shops or tailor boutiques

• Soak in the quaint riverside atmosphere

Overnight in Hoi An.

After breakfast at your hotel, depart for a morning visit to My Son Sanctuary, one of Vietnam’s most significant archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

My Son Holy Land
Nestled in a lush valley surrounded by mountains, My Son was once the spiritual center of the Champa Kingdom, which ruled over central and southern Vietnam from the 2nd to the 16th century. The sanctuary consists of dozens of red brick towers and temples, built between the 4th and 13th centuries, dedicated to Hindu deities, especially Shiva. Despite the passage of time and damage from war, many impressive ruins remain.

Your guide will walk you through the grounds, explaining the symbolism, history, and architecture of the Cham people, as well as the significance of this once-thriving religious center.

Return to Hoi An
After exploring My Son, return to Hoi An around midday. The afternoon is free at your leisure to relax at your hotel, enjoy the beach, or further explore the charm of the ancient town.

Optional ideas for the afternoon:

• Visit the Hoi An Silk Village or Pottery Village

• Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River

• Shop for tailored clothing or handmade souvenirs

• Enjoy a lantern-lit evening by the riverside

Overnight in Hoi An.

Today is a free day to enjoy Hoi An Ancient Town at your own pace – one of the most captivating and charming destinations in Vietnam, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Once a bustling international trading port from the 15th to the 19th century, Hoi An retains much of its old-world charm. Its well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and cultural fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European influences make it a true gem of Southeast Asia.

Recommended activities for the day:

• 🌾 Cycle through the countryside: Rent a bicycle and ride through peaceful rice paddies, visit small farming villages, and interact with friendly locals.

• 🛍️ Shop in the Old Town: Explore art galleries, tailor shops, and handicraft stores. Hoi An is famous for custom tailoring—you can have clothes made in a day!

• ☕ Relax at a sidewalk café: Enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee or herbal tea and watch the world go by in the town’s laid-back atmosphere.

• 🏖️ Visit Cua Dai Beach or An Bang Beach: Just a few kilometers away, these white sandy beaches are perfect for a refreshing swim, sunbathing, or seafood lunch by the sea.

Optional activities:

• Take a Vietnamese cooking class

• Enjoy a spa or massage treatment

• Participate in a lantern-making workshop

• Book a sunset boat ride along the Thu Bon River

Overnight in Hoi An.

Enjoy some free time at leisure in Hoi An for a final stroll through the ancient streets, a café stop, or some last-minute shopping. At the scheduled time, our guide and driver will pick you up and transfer you to Danang Airport for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), operated by Vietnam Airlines.

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, our local guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the city center for check-in.

The rest of the day is at your disposal to relax or explore nearby areas on your own.

Optional Tour – Ho Chi Minh Vespa Adventure (Evening)
For a unique and exciting experience, hop on the back of a classic Vespa scooter driven by a local guide and explore the hidden corners of Ho Chi Minh City just like the locals do. This tour gives you a chance to discover places often missed by conventional sightseeing:

• Cruise through the Chinese district of Cholon

• Stroll through a vibrant flower market

• Visit a hidden Buddhist pagoda

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

This is a memorable way to experience the energy, flavors, and contrasts of modern-day Saigon.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

08:00 – Depart from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, embarking on a pleasant drive through the scenic countryside to Cu Chi, a district famously known for its intricate tunnel system used during the Vietnam War.

09:30 – Arrive at Cu Chi Tunnels. Begin with a short introductory video that provides insights into the construction and strategic use of the tunnels by the Viet Cong. Then spend the next hour exploring the underground maze, witnessing firsthand:

• Hidden entrances and trapdoors

• Mantraps and booby traps

• An American tank wreck

• Bomb craters left by B-52 bombers

You’ll gain a deep appreciation for the resourcefulness and resilience of the Vietnamese fighters during the war.

11:30 – Depart Cu Chi and return to Ho Chi Minh City.

13:00 – Arrive back in the city and take a break for lunch (on your own, with recommendations from your guide).

Afternoon City Tour

14:00 – Begin your guided city tour with the following key stops:

• Notre Dame Cathedral (outside visit)

• Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel, both iconic remnants of French colonial architecture

• Reunification Palace, where the Vietnam War came to a dramatic end on April 30, 1975

• War Remnants Museum, featuring powerful exhibits and photographs portraying the Vietnam War and its impact

• Ben Thanh Market, a bustling market ideal for souvenir shopping, browsing local handicrafts, or sampling street food

18:00 – Return to your hotel for rest.
(Optional: You may stay longer at Ben Thanh Market and return to your hotel at your own pace.)

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

08:00 – Pick-up at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.
Meet your guide and driver at the hotel lobby for a comfortable 2-hour drive (approximately 90 km) to Ben Tre, located in the heart of the Mekong Delta.

10:00 – Begin your boat trip on the Ham Luong River.
Cruise along one of the Mekong’s nine tributaries and stop at local workshops to observe traditional rural industries:

• A brick kiln, where bricks are still made by hand

• A coconut processing facility, to see how every part of the coconut is used

• A mat weaving house, where you can try your hand at weaving with local artisans

Late Morning – Visit a local village.
Disembark and take a short walk through a peaceful village to get a glimpse of authentic Delta life. Then, enjoy a leisurely bicycle ride through lush coconut plantations and fruit orchards – an opportunity to breathe in the fresh air and interact with friendly locals.

12:30 – Lunch (optional) at a local riverside restaurant, featuring Delta specialties (suggested by your guide).

14:00 – Continue your journey to Can Tho, the largest city and commercial hub of the Mekong Delta.

16:30 – Arrive in Can Tho.
Check in at your hotel and enjoy some free time to rest or explore the city at your own pace.

Overnight in Can Tho.

06:30 – Early morning boat cruise to Cai Rang Floating Market
Rise early for a memorable boat ride to Cai Rang, the most vibrant floating market in the Mekong Delta. This bustling, colorful market is best visited early in the morning when it is at its liveliest, with dozens of boats trading fruits, vegetables, and local produce. Watch as locals skillfully maneuver their boats, calling out goods and prices in true Delta style.

Enjoy the beautiful river scenery, and observe the rhythm of life on water—an authentic and photogenic slice of Mekong life.

08:00 – Visit local workshops
Continue your boat journey to visit:

• A traditional rice husking mill, where you’ll see how rice is processed

• A noodle-making workshop, where the famed Vietnamese rice noodles (hủ tiếu) are handmade

These stops offer unique insights into the traditional livelihoods that sustain the people of the Mekong.

10:30 – Return to the hotel to check out.
Prepare for the return journey to Ho Chi Minh City.

12:00 – Drive back to Saigon
Enjoy a relaxing 3.5 to 4-hour drive back to Ho Chi Minh City through lush green scenery and rural villages.

Late Afternoon – Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City
Check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You may choose to:

• Stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street

• Grab a Vietnamese iced coffee or street food treat

• Or simply unwind at your hotel

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Enjoy your free time at leisure to relax or do some last-minute shopping and exploration in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether it’s picking up souvenirs, enjoying a final bowl of Vietnamese pho, or simply strolling the lively streets one last time, take this moment to reflect on the incredible memories made throughout your journey across Vietnam.

At the appointed time, Vivutravel’s private guide and driver will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure flight.

🛫 Goodbye and see you again!

Thank you for choosing Vivutravel. We sincerely hope you’ve had an unforgettable Vietnam Holiday—rich with culture, history, cuisine, and beautiful landscapes—and we look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure in Vietnam or beyond!

Safe travels and farewell!