Vietnam Honeymoon Sun & Sea – 20-Day Journey from Hanoi

Upon arrival in Hanoi, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your private Vietnam Tours guide and driver, who will transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

Hanoi is a city where the exotic charm of old Asia blends seamlessly with the dynamic energy of the new. Medieval streets coexist with modern avenues, and French colonial elegance intertwines with vibrant Asian life. Rather than erasing its past, Hanoi preserves its architectural heritage, creating a living museum that evolves in harmony with its history. It’s a place where imagination becomes reality.

In the evening, enjoy a fantastic traditional water puppet show followed by a delicious dinner at a Vietnamese restaurant. Later, relax with a 60-minute massage at your hotel.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Ranked among the world’s top destinations, Hanoi is Vietnam’s capital, boasting over 1,000 years of rich history and culture. The city is renowned for its scenic lakes where locals practice Tai Chi at dawn, tree-lined boulevards, vibrant flowers sold from bicycles, and delicious cuisine.

08:00 – Your guide and driver will pick you up to visit the Museum of Ethnology, offering fascinating insights into Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. Discover cultural diversity through exhibits of religious rituals, symbolic practices, and life-sized replicas of traditional Vietnamese homes displayed outdoors.

Next, explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, established in 1070. Initially dedicated to Confucius, it now honors scholars and doctorates and stands as a symbol of the country’s commitment to learning.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, visit the famous Train Street around 2:00 PM—perfect timing to catch a train departing at 2:30 PM and another arriving at 3:30 PM. Capture amazing photos of the train passing through the narrow residential street, and see how locals live just feet away from the tracks. Relax with a cup of coffee at a trackside café while soaking in this unique Hanoi experience.

Continue to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, beginning with the exterior of Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum—a grand memorial honoring the national hero who led Vietnam to independence and reunification. Located in Ba Dinh Square, this was where President Ho Chi Minh proclaimed Vietnam’s independence on September 2, 1945. From there, take a short walk to see the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house.

Nearby, visit the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, noted for its unique lotus-inspired architecture—a must-see landmark in Hanoi.

Finally, enjoy a cyclo ride through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, witnessing daily life and the impressive way locals navigate the lively traffic. Conclude your day with a fantastic traditional water puppet show, a unique art form deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.

Afterward, depart Hanoi for Sapa and head to Topas Ecolodge, located about 30 km from Sapa town. Nestled on a scenic hilltop in the mountains of Hoang Lien National Park, Topas Ecolodge offers a serene retreat just 45 minutes from the bustling town center.

Check into your lodge and take some time to rest.

In the afternoon, visit Nam Cang Village, situated in one of Sapa’s most remote regions. Here, the Red Dao women are known for their vibrant traditional costumes, herbal medicine, and intricate embroidery. Accompanied by your guide, explore the village and discover local crafts such as paper-making, jewelry crafting, and embroidery techniques.

Enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge. Afterward, consider trying the famous traditional Red Dao herbal bath, using locally gathered herbs from the surrounding jungle.

Overnight at Topas Ecolodge.

In the morning, enjoy a walk into the jungle to explore the stunning natural surroundings. Along the way, you may encounter locals walking barefoot through the forest paths. The higher you climb, the more breathtaking the scenery becomes, revealing the pristine beauty of nature.

On your way back, visit a small home belonging to the Red Dao minority people, who live modestly on the forest’s edge. As the forest clears, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the valley below, with a large stream and rolling hills covered in dense forest.

Return to Topas Riverside Lodge for lunch amidst the mountain scenery.

Around 15:00, depart Topas Ecolodge for Bac Ha Town, a journey of approximately 90 km (2.5 hours).

Upon arrival, check in at Mr. Pa Homestay, renowned as the most beautiful homestay in Ban Pho Village.

Enjoy dinner with your local host and spend the night in Bac Ha.

Overnight in Bac Ha.

The vibrant hill tribe markets of Northern Vietnam are a highlight of any Sapa tour. These weekly gatherings are not only for trading goods but also for socializing, sharing news, enjoying local rice wine, and sometimes even finding love.

In the morning, visit one of the region’s colorful weekly markets based on the day:

• Tuesday: Coc Ly Market

• Wednesday: Cao Son Market

• Thursday: Lung Khau Nhin Market

• Saturday: Can Cau Market

• Sunday: Bac Ha, Muong Hum, or Muong Khuong Markets

Enjoy lunch before departing for the drive back to Hanoi in the late afternoon.

Check-in and overnight in Hanoi.

Begin your journey at 8:00 AM with a scenic three-hour drive (170 km) from Hanoi through the Red River Delta, offering plenty of photo opportunities of lush green rice fields and farmers at work. Midway, stop at a handicraft workshop featuring fine textiles, embroidered art, stone carvings, and gemstones like star rubies and sapphires mined in Vietnam.

Your destination is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay, known for its breathtaking seascape of around 3,000 limestone islands and islets rising from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.

Upon arrival, board your luxury junk boat and enjoy a welcome drink and a fresh seafood lunch. As the cruise glides deeper into the serene bay, relax and savor the stunning scenery.

During the cruise, visit the spectacular Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave and enjoy the white sandy beach at Ti Top Island before anchoring for the night amidst the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay.

Overnight on board in Ha Long Bay.

No trip to Vietnam is complete without experiencing the majestic and mysterious beauty of Ha Long Bay—a natural wonder often described as a priceless collection of sculptures carved by nature itself.

After breakfast, take a small sampan to explore a hidden lagoon, surrounded by limestone peaks waking in the soft morning light. The cruise then continues deeper into Bai Tu Long Bay, passing landmarks like Human Head Island, Turtle Island, and Duck Islet, as well as the filming site of the famous movie Indochine.

Around noon, return to the harbor and drive back to Hanoi. En route, stop in Hai Duong to visit the renowned Con Son Pagoda.

Arrive at Hanoi Airport for your afternoon flight to Hue with Vietnam Airlines. Upon arrival in Hue, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. The evening is free at leisure.

Overnight in Hue.

Begin your day with a unique cyclo ride, the most authentic way to explore the charm of Hue. Glide past tree-lined streets, local shops, historic homes, and iconic landmarks. Cross the famous Trang Tien Bridge over the Perfume River and stop at Dong Ba Market, a vibrant local hub in the heart of the city.

Continue to the Imperial Citadel, the former capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945), to admire its impressive royal architecture and learn about the city’s regal past.

In the afternoon, travel by car to visit the majestic tombs of King Minh Mang and King Khai Dinh. Minh Mang’s tomb is renowned for its harmony with nature, while Khai Dinh’s tomb is the most elaborate, combining Eastern and Western architectural styles and known for its high construction cost and intricate detail.

Next, visit Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue’s most iconic landmarks, perched along the Perfume River. It is also known for its connection to the historic protest of monk Thich Quang Duc in 1963.

Conclude your day with a scenic dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River back to the city center. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight in Hue.

After breakfast, depart Hue for Hoi An, once a major trading port in the 17th and 18th centuries. Despite the passage of time, Hoi An has preserved its unique architecture and laid-back atmosphere, making it a highlight of any Vietnam tour.

Enjoy a scenic drive along the coast, passing through the picturesque fishing village of Lang Co and over the dramatic Hai Van Pass, also known as the Pass of Ocean Clouds. En route, stop in Da Nang to visit the Cham Museum, home to the world’s finest collection of Cham sculptures.

Upon arrival in Hoi An, you’re free to explore the charming ancient town center on a walking tour.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Note: You may choose to stop at Ba Na Hills along the way and experience one of Indochina’s longest cable car rides, including a visit to the iconic Golden Bridge, famously held aloft by giant stone hands.

Hoi An Ancient Town, a highlight of any Vietnam honeymoon, is a beautifully preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to 19th centuries. Its architecture and street layout reflect a harmonious blend of local and international influences, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status.

Today is free for you to enjoy at your own pace. Cycle through peaceful rice paddies, browse antique shops and art galleries, shop for handmade souvenirs, or simply relax at a sidewalk café and soak in the town’s charming atmosphere. If you prefer the sea, head to the nearby white sands of Da Nang Beach for sun and surf.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Enjoy a free day at leisure to relax or explore Hoi An at your own pace. Wander the ancient streets, visit local shops and cafés, or simply soak up the town’s unique charm.

Overnight in Hoi An.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will transfer you from Hoi An to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Nha Trang with Vietnam Airlines.

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed and transferred by private car to Whale Island Resort, located about 140 km (approximately 3 hours) from Cam Ranh Airport. Whale Island Resort is an idyllic, off-grid escape where you can unwind barefoot amid natural beauty. The secluded, fan-cooled resort offers snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, scenic coastal walks, and a charming beachfront setting. Its rustic bamboo-and-timber bungalows create a cozy, atmospheric retreat.

Overnight at Whale Island Resort.

Enjoy a free day at leisure to relax on the beach or explore Nha Trang’s vibrant city life at your own pace.

Overnight in Nha Trang.

This morning, depart Whale Island Resort and travel by private car to Phan Thiet. Once part of the ancient Cham Kingdom, Phan Thiet today is a pleasant coastal town and a great destination to conclude your Vietnam holiday. Though the town itself is modest, the area boasts beautiful white-sand beaches lined with coconut palms, excellent resorts, a renowned golf course, and impressive natural attractions such as vast sand dunes, serene lakes, and striking red canyons. Phan Thiet is also home to significant Cham and Raglai ethnic communities, adding to its cultural richness.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Phan Thiet.

04:30 Depart from your hotel and head to the White Sand Dunes to catch the sunrise.

05:15 Arrive at the White Sand Dunes and climb to the top for breathtaking views of the first light of the day. Enjoy an exciting quad-bike ride over the dunes (included – 2 people per quad-bike).

06:15 Visit the Red Sand Dunes, known for their gentler slopes and striking reddish color that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding scenery. Try sandboarding down the dunes for some added fun (included).

07:00 Stop by the local fishing village to witness the bustling morning activity. See fishermen bringing in their catch, women sorting seafood, and colorful boats preparing to set out to sea.

07:30 Explore Fairy Stream (Suoi Tien), a shallow stream winding through vivid red and yellow canyon walls. Optional ostrich riding is available here at your own expense.

08:30 Return to your hotel in Mui Ne.

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Mui Ne.

Free at leisure and overnight in Phan Thiet.

Enjoy a free morning at leisure until your transfer to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s vibrant economic hub. Bustling and full of energy, Ho Chi Minh City is known for its fascinating mix of history and modernity, with elegant boulevards, historic pagodas, lively markets, museums, and colonial architecture making it one of Vietnam’s most captivating destinations.

The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Begin your full-day adventure at 08:00, departing Ho Chi Minh City for a scenic drive through the countryside to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels.

Before entering the tunnels, watch a short documentary detailing their incredible construction and strategic significance during wartime. Then, spend about an hour exploring this fascinating underground network, complete with hidden trapdoors, mantraps, the remains of an American tank, and bomb craters left by massive B-52 raids.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City, arriving around 13:00.

In the afternoon, embark on a city tour starting with visits to Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Post Office, both stunning examples of French colonial architecture. Continue to the Reunification Palace, where the Vietnam War officially ended on 30 April 1975 as tank number 843 of the North Vietnamese Army crashed through its gates.

Next, explore the War Remnants Museum, home to powerful exhibits highlighting the realities of war. Outside, view captured military equipment, including tanks, aircraft, and artillery.

Conclude your tour at the lively Ben Thanh Market, famous for its central location and diverse array of goods, from souvenirs and handicrafts to traditional Vietnamese silk ao dai.

The tour finishes around 18:00 with a transfer back to your hotel, or you may choose to stay longer at Ben Thanh Market and return on your own.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

At around 08:00, your tour guide will pick you up at your hotel for a scenic drive of about 90 km (2 hours) to Ben Tre, located in the heart of the Mekong Delta.

Upon arrival, embark on a boat cruise along the Ham Luong River, a branch of the mighty Mekong. Along the way, you’ll visit various local workshops, including a brick kiln, a salt refinery, a coconut processing facility, and a mat weaving house, gaining insight into traditional industries that sustain local communities.

Next, the boat will dock at a peaceful village where you can enjoy a short walk to experience authentic Delta life. Hop on a Xe Lôi—a motorized rickshaw—for a ride through the village, ending at a riverside restaurant where you’ll savor a delicious lunch of regional specialties such as elephant-ear fish and river shrimp.

After lunch, relax with a tranquil sampan ride along narrow canals, drifting beneath lush greenery and soaking up the serene atmosphere. Return to the river to board your boat once more before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Expect to arrive at your hotel around 17:00.

Enjoy some free time at leisure until your private guide escorts you to the airport for your departure flight. We hope you’ve had a wonderful Vietnam honeymoon and wish you safe travels. Goodbye, and we look forward to welcoming you back again!