Unveiling Vietnam: A 17-Day Private Journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

Welcome to Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, where your unforgettable 17-day private journey begins! Upon your Hanoi arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted at the airport by your dedicated private transfer and guide, ensuring a seamless start to your adventure. Enjoy the convenience of an early check-in at your centrally located luxury Hanoi hotel, allowing you to settle in comfortably. The remainder of your first day is at your leisure, offering the perfect opportunity to relax after your journey or take your first steps to explore Hanoi‘s enchanting streets, setting the tone for your incredible Vietnam itinerary.

Following a delicious breakfast, prepare for an exhilarating Hanoi jeep tour, a unique way to uncover the city’s authentic charm. Your expert local guide and driver will skillfully navigate you through the Hanoi hidden gems, from maze-like backstreets to tiny alleyways, offering an intimate glimpse into local life. This captivating explore Hanoi by jeep experience also includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the majestic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the historic Long Bien Bridge, with a memorable stop at the famous Hanoi Train Street for a refreshing coffee. Conclude your morning with a delightful local lunch, making this a truly immersive Hanoi cultural tour and a highlight of your Vietnam adventure.

Today marks your transition to the breathtaking natural wonder of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for an unparalleled Ha Long Bay overnight cruise. Enjoy a private transfer from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Island, where you’ll board your exquisite cruise. As you embark, prepare to be captivated by the spectacular seascape of Ha Long Bay, venturing into the serene and less crowded Lan Ha Bay cruise area, renowned for its picturesque floating villages and dramatic limestone karsts. The afternoon invites adventure with kayaking Ha Long Bay and swimming opportunities at the idyllic Ong Cam areas. As the day winds down, participate in an engaging cooking demonstration and savor a beautiful sunset party on the sundeck, a truly unforgettable Vietnam luxury cruise experience.

Wake up to the serene beauty of the bay before enjoying a final breakfast on your Ha Long Bay overnight cruise. Take in the tranquility as you visit the famous Tra Bau areas for further exploration or a refreshing swim. After disembarking from your cruise at Tuan Chau harbor, a private transfer will whisk you away to the picturesque landscapes of Ninh Binh. Check into your comfortable Tam Coc accommodation, nestled amidst the stunning karsts. The rest of the evening is yours to relax and prepare to explore Ninh Binh‘s captivating natural and cultural wonders, a perfect blend of Vietnam countryside beauty.

Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Ninh Binh with a comprehensive Ninh Binh full day tour. Begin your spiritual journey at the revered Bich Dong Pagoda, gracefully integrated into the mountainside. For panoramic vistas that stretch across the Tam Coc valley, conquer the ascent to Mua Cave views, offering breathtaking photographic opportunities. After a delightful lunch, experience the tranquility of a Trang An boat trip, silently gliding through emerald waters and mystical caves carved into the towering karsts. Conclude your day with a transfer to Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s oldest national park, where you’ll enjoy dinner and spend a peaceful evening surrounded by nature, making this a quintessential Vietnam nature tour.

Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Ninh Binh with a comprehensive Ninh Binh full day tour. Begin your spiritual journey at the revered Bich Dong Pagoda, gracefully integrated into the mountainside. For panoramic vistas that stretch across the Tam Coc valley, conquer the ascent to Mua Cave views, offering breathtaking photographic opportunities. After a delightful lunch, experience the tranquility of a Trang An boat trip, silently gliding through emerald waters and mystical caves carved into the towering karsts. Conclude your day with a transfer to Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s oldest national park, where you’ll enjoy dinner and spend a peaceful evening surrounded by nature, making this a quintessential Vietnam nature tour.

Upon your early Dong Hoi arrival by overnight train, your welcoming guide and driver will be there to greet you. Enjoy the comfort of an early check-in and breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a captivating Phong Nha cave tour. Prepare to be awe-struck as you explore Phong Nha‘s magnificent Paradise Cave Vietnam, renowned as Asia’s longest dry cave, with its colossal chambers and intricate formations. After a delicious lunch, indulge in a serene boat ride into the mystical Phong Nha Cave, marveling at its otherworldly underground river and the impressive “Dry Cave” section. Your day concludes at the tranquil Lake House resort, promising a relaxing evening after your incredible Vietnam caving adventure.

Embark on an insightful and moving DMZ Vietnam tour, delving deep into the significant history of the Vietnam War. Your private bus and knowledgeable guide will transport you to the remarkable Vinh Moc Tunnel, a powerful and less-crowded alternative to the Cu Chi tunnels, where you’ll gain profound understanding of its strategic importance during the conflict. Continue your journey through the historical 17th Parallel Vietnam, visiting iconic landmarks such as the symbolic Hien Luong Bridge and the serene Ben Hai River. After a reflective lunch, enjoy a scenic 2-hour transfer to Hue, the former imperial capital, where the echoes of Vietnam’s past continue to resonate.

Uncover the grandeur and tranquility of Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital, on a comprehensive Hue city tour. Begin your exploration with a visit to the magnificent Imperial Citadel Hue, a sprawling complex of palaces and temples. Experience the serene beauty of Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic seven-story pagoda overlooking the Perfume River, and delve into the regal splendor of a Hue King’s Tomb, each a testament to Vietnam’s rich dynastic past. Savor a unique Hue vegetarian lunch at a local monastery, offering a taste of spiritual tranquility. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. In the evening, immerse yourself in a truly authentic Vietnam cultural experience with a memorable Hue home cooked dinner at a local family’s home, discovering their rural life and traditional cuisine.

Today, embark on a scenic transfer to Hoi An, an enchanting Hoi An ancient town renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved architecture and charming atmosphere. In the late afternoon, your guide will lead you on a captivating Hoi An walking tour, exploring the town’s historical highlights, including an ancient house, a vibrant Chinese Assembly Hall, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge Hoi An. Discover the bustling Hoi An night market and charming coffee shops as dusk settles. Enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant before experiencing the magical Hoi An lantern boat ride along the river, where you can partake in the beautiful tradition of floating a paper lantern for good fortune. This truly highlights the unique charm of UNESCO Hoi An.

Enjoy a leisurely morning before an exhilarating Hoi An Vespa tour that promises to unveil the town’s charming Hoi An hidden gems. Sit back and relax as your experienced driver skillfully navigates through the narrow alleys of the old town, providing a unique perspective. Stop for a delicious local lunch before venturing into the tranquil Hoi An countryside, passing by verdant rice fields and picturesque scenery. The highlight of the afternoon is an unforgettable bamboo boat ride Hoi An at a serene watercoconut forest Hoi An, offering a delightful Hoi An local experience. The tour concludes back at your hotel, leaving your evening free to explore the vibrant night markets and quaint shops at your leisure, making this a true Vietnam Vespa adventure.

This morning offers a delightful immersion into Vietnamese gastronomy with a hands-on Hoi An cooking class. Make your way to the meeting point in Hoi An old town to begin your culinary journey. The experience kicks off with a fascinating tour of Tra Que herbal village, where you’ll learn about the fresh, aromatic ingredients that are the heart of Vietnamese cuisine. Under the guidance of expert chefs, unleash your culinary talent by preparing popular regional dishes. After preparing your masterpieces, you’ll have the pleasure of enjoying your delicious creations for lunch. The class concludes by 13:00, leaving your afternoon free to further explore Hoi An or simply relax after your enriching Hoi An culinary experience.

Today, bid farewell to Hoi An as you transfer to Da Nang airport for your scenic flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Upon your Saigon arrival, your private transfer and guide will be awaiting you, ready to whisk you to your next destination. Your first stop in this bustling metropolis will be the renowned Pho 2000 Saigon for a delicious authentic Vietnamese lunch. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon to begin to explore Ho Chi Minh City‘s vibrant energy. Your centrally located hotel in the historic French Quarter Saigon provides easy walking access to iconic landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Saigon Central Post Office, the magnificent Opera House, and the bustling Nguyen Hue walking boulevard, offering a fantastic start to your Vietnam city break.

Delve into the poignant history of Ho Chi Minh City with an insightful Ho Chi Minh City war tour. Begin your journey of reflection with a visit to the Thich Quang Duc monument, a significant site honoring a pivotal moment in Vietnamese history. Explore a historic weapon bunker before proceeding to the impactful War Remnants Museum Saigon, where you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the Vietnam War’s profound effects. Immerse yourself in the grandeur and historical significance of Independence Palace Vietnam, a symbol of the nation’s sovereignty. Conclude your morning with a delicious Vietnamese lunch. In the afternoon, unwind and enjoy a complimentary 1-hour Vietnamese massage, a thoughtful thank you gift for choosing this incredible Vietnam history tour and Saigon sightseeing experience.

Today, journey from the bustling Ho Chi Minh City to the lush and tranquil Mekong Delta, a picturesque 4-hour drive showcasing spectacular views of verdant rice paddies and swaying coconut ranges. A delicious lunch awaits you after checking into your charming lodge. In the afternoon, embark on an immersive Vinh Long cycling tour along serene village paths, offering an intimate glimpse into Mekong Delta local life. Visit a local home to witness traditional pop rice making and learn about time-honored agricultural methods. Continue cycling past duck farms, vibrant green rice paddies, and abundant fruit plantations Mekong. Conclude your day by participating in a hands-on traditional cooking class Vietnam, learning to prepare authentic Vietnamese pancakes, followed by a delightful dinner at the lodge’s restaurant. This promises an authentic Vietnam rural tourism experience.

Awaken to the tranquil ambiance of the Mekong Delta and enjoy a hearty breakfast at your lodge. Begin your day with a captivating shared Mekong Delta boat trip to a local floating market Vietnam, where you’ll witness the vibrant exchange of goods and the unique rhythm of riverine commerce. Cross a local ferry to visit a beautiful Cao Dai temple Mekong, offering insight into a fascinating indigenous religion. Observe small coconut processing Mekong operations, where fibers are expertly removed to create ropes and other products. Return to the lodge to relax after lunch, perhaps by the pool. Before dinner, engage in a unique Vietnam cultural immersion with a conversation with a VC war veteran, listening to their compelling life story, adding a profound dimension to your Mekong Delta serene experience.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and spend your morning relaxing at the lodge, soaking in the last moments of the serene Mekong Delta. Afterward, you will be transferred to Can Tho airport for your flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival at Noi Bai airport, a private driver will pick you up and transfer you to a comfortable Hanoi airport hotel. This convenient stop allows you a short stay and a refreshing shower, ensuring you feel revitalized before your international final departure Vietnam later tonight. This marks the culmination of your incredible Vietnam domestic flight journey, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of your end of Vietnam trip.

A private transfer will pick you up from your airport hotel, ensuring a smooth and timely journey to Noi Bai airport for your Hanoi departure. Board your international flight Hanoi back home, carrying cherished memories of your extraordinary adventure through Vietnam. Thank you for choosing Maverick Journeys, and we wish you safe travels Vietnam!