Private · 14 Days / 13 Nights · Customizable

Mystique of Vietnam: South to North Discovery

Discover Vietnam's vibrant cities, ancient towns, lush landscapes, and stunning bays on an unforgettable 14-day journey from Saigon to Lan Ha Bay.

From $1191 / person (private tour, price per person drops as your group grows)

Duration14 days / 13 nights
RouteHo Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Ben Tre – Cu Chi tunnel – Hoi An – My Son – Hue – Ninh Binh – Hanoi – Lan Ha Bay
Travel styleAuthentic, Culture and Heritage
HalongOvernight cruise
GuidePrivate, English
BookingSecure online payment

Discover Vietnam's vibrant cities, ancient towns, lush landscapes, and stunning bays on an unforgettable 14-day journey from Saigon to Lan Ha Bay. Fully private and customizable, with your own guide and driver, honest online pricing, and cabin & pickup confirmed within 1 hour.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Click any day to expand. “Stay” shows the accommodation on this route. Prefer to upgrade a hotel or cruise cabin? We’ll tailor it — and the price — in your free quote.

Day 1 — Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, meet and greet at the airport, then transfer to your hotel.. Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, our local guide and driver will warmly welcome you at the pickup area. You'll then be transferred to your hotel in the city.

Stay: Sanouva Hotel ★★★ (Premium Deluxe Double Room) *or similar hotel

15km – 0.75h

Day 2 — Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Explore the best highlights of Ho Chi Minh City, including the Independence Palace, Binh Tay Market, Quan Am Pagoda, and the War Museum.. 8:30 AM: We begin the day with the Independence Palace , once used as the home – office of the Presidents of South Vietnam. Our visit includes the North Vietnamese tank which effectively attacked the palace in 1975 to bring the controversial Vietnam War to an end and the five-story palace with its rooms have been preserved in their late 1960s, 1970s style and a bunker basement.

Stay: Sanouva Hotel ★★★ (Premium Deluxe Double Room) *or similar hotel

Day 3 — Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Ben Tre – Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Transfer to Ben Tre, boat trip to visit a brick factory, coconut and mat workshops, then explore villages by motor cart or bicycle.. 8:30 : Our local driver and guide will pick you up from your hotel in central Ho Chi Minh City. From there, we'll head to Ben Tre , in the heart of the Mekong Delta . Upon arrival, board a boat at Phong Nam pier (near Phong Nam Bridge) and begin cruising along the Chet Say River , a scenic branch of the Mekong. Along the way, enjoy views of daily life on the river-fishing, cargo transport, and local activity. Stop at a traditional brick factory where bricks are still handmade using age-old techniques. Refresh with a glass of fresh coconut juice. Continue the boat trip to a coconut processing workshop where you'll discover how coconut candy is made. Taste the delicious coconut treats, enjoy tropical fruits, and sip honey tea. Take a short walk to visit a family-run mat weaving workshop . Then, hop on a motor cart or bicycle for a peaceful ride through quiet village lanes, giving you a closer look at local farmers' daily lives. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, transfer by motor cart back to the pier. Then take a traditional rowing boat ride to return to Nha Viec Bridge. Our driver will be waiting to pick you up for the return journey to Ho Chi Minh City.

Stay: Sanouva Hotel ★★★ (Premium Deluxe Double Room) *or similar hotel

110km – 2.5h

Day 4 — Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Cu Chi tunnel – Hoi An

Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, fly to Da Nang, and transfer to Hoi An.. 8:00 AM: We depart for the most striking place in the history of the Vietnam War, the Cu Chi Tunnels. Cu Chi is a real underground city made up of a large network of tunnels covering an area of over 250km long where the Viet Cong conducted the war of resistance against American troops. All of the tunnels were dug over a period of twenty years using only pickaxes and shovels. The tour includes special entering some part of tunnels. Option: At the Cu Chi shooting range, guests can enhance their experience by trying real gun firing. This service allows visitors to test their aim with a variety of firearms under supervision. It's a thrilling option for those seeking a bit of adventure. This is an optional service not included in the tour price, and guests will need to pay on the spot.

Stay: Delicacy Hotel & Spa ★★★ (Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel

Day 5 — Hoi An – My Son – Hoi An

Discover My Son Sanctuary, uncover Champa culture, and explore Hoi An Ancient Town.. Spend a half-day exploring the sacred valley of the Champa Kingdom. Located 40km from Hoi An Town, My Son Sanctuary was once the most important intellectual and religious center of the ancient kingdom, and a revered burial place for Cham monarchs. Recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, this sanctuary preserves around 70 ruined brick and stone architectural works built between the 7th and 13th centuries. During the visit, the rich cultural, historical, and architectural values of each relic will be fully unveiled as you leisurely wander through the ancient complex . The experience is further enriched by attending a traditional Champa dance performance before leaving the sanctuary.

Stay: Delicacy Hotel & Spa ★★★ (Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel

40km – 1h

Day 6 — Hoi An

Spend a free day at your leisure.. Today, enjoy a full day at leisure to relax or explore the surrounding area at your own pace. A variety of optional activities are available, including snorkeling , cooking classes , cycling , sightseeing, or boat excursions. Please note that these activities are not included and are at your own expense. Feel free to contact us for more information and availability. Lunch & dinner at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hoi An.

Stay: Delicacy Hotel & Spa ★★★ (Deluxe City View Room) *or similar hotel

Day 7 — Hoi An – Hue

Travel to Hue, visit the Cham Museum, cross the Hai Van Pass, and explore Thien Mu Pagoda and the Hue Citadel.. travel to Hue by passing Da Nang along the sea road. Once you arrive in Da Nang, stop to visit the Cham Museum which preserves the most important Cham culture collections in the world. Then, walk to My Khe beach where you can enjoy the view of giant Goodness of Mercy statues in the Linh Ung Pagoda. Take photos of fishermen by the beach then continue driving along the coastline to Hue ancient capital. Make a stop at top of the Hai Van pass to enjoy the breathtaking view of the ocean.

Stay: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel ★★★ (Deluxe Double Room) *or similar hotel

125km – 3h

Day 8 — Hue – Ninh Binh

Discover Hue's countryside by visiting Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh villages, explore Khai Dinh King's Tomb, and board the overnight train to Ninh Binh.. 8:00 AM: To start the day, transfer to the Huong River (or Perfume River) to embark a Royal boat trip to the villages in the East of the city. This is an opportunity to discover the local life on the both sides of this poetic river. Upon arrival in Tien Non village, disembark for a bike ride in the countryside through three villages: Tien Non, Thanh Tien and Sinh village. During the trip, you will be immersed into the daily rhythm of life in the villages. In Tien Non village , meet the villagers working on the fields and vegetable gardens. Then, visit a family worship house in the village. Next, reach Thanh Tien village , an artificial paper flower village dating back 400 years . Besides the rural works, they make paper flowers for the New Year festival to offer their ancestors the best wishes. Visit Mr. Hieu's family , one of the well-known artisans in the village to learn how to make paper flowers under his instruction. Keep going to Sinh village , a cradle of 400 year folklore prints in Hue. Meet Mr. Phuoc who will explain the techniques of traditional prints. You will find beautiful souvenirs on this trip.

Day 9 — Ninh Binh

Explore Thung La Temple by bicycle or car, take part in a hands-on family embroidery workshop, and join a local cooking class.. For an active immersion, you can choose to embark on a 10 km bike ride (one way) or a 20 km ride (round trip) along the dyke, offering stunning views of rice fields, a river, and limestone mountains. Take optional stops along the way for picturesque photos and interactions with locals. Continue your exploration by visiting Thung La Temple , which dates back to the 11th century. Don't miss the opportunity to experience traditional musical instruments that are integral to the spiritual life of the Vietnamese people. Note : Travellers who prefer not to ride a bicycle can either ride as a passenger on a scooter or reach the temple by car.

Stay: Nep House (Double Room) *or similar hotel

Day 10 — Ninh Binh – Hanoi

Discover Phat Diem Cathedral, sail a bamboo boat through Tam Coc, visit King Dinh and King Le temples in Hoa Lu, then return to Hanoi.. Our first visit of the day is to the Phat Diem cathedral which is well-known as the "Catholic capital" of Vietnam. The construction of the cathedral between 1875-1899 with a unique combination of traditional pagoda architecture and a western church made of stone and wood. On arrival, take a leisurely walk to visit the Jesus Christ on the middle islet and the impressive house-gate. Then continue to the grand Catholic Church named "Nha Tho Duc Me Man Coi" which was built with 6 rows of monolithic ironwood with 2 layers of tile roof. Located at the end of the courtyard, the completely stone church is the most incredible building in the complex.

Stay: La Nueva Boutique Hotel ★★★ (Premium Room) *or similar hotel

0h

Day 11 — Hanoi

Explore the Temple of Literature, Ethnology Museum, Ho Chi Minh Complex, French Quarter, and Old Quarter.. Our first visit of the day is to the Temple of Literature which was built under the Ly dynasty in 11th century for worshipping Confucius and teaching Royal children. Enjoy a walk in the garden to the city's symbol Khue Van Cac. You will then visit the World Heritage "s tone steles " which shows the name of outstanding students. Continue to explore the Quoc Tu Giam which is considered as the first national university of Vietnam.

Stay: La Nueva Boutique Hotel ★★★ (Premium Room) *or similar hotel

Day 12 — Hanoi – Lan Ha Bay

Transfer to Halong, Cruise Lan Ha Bay, Explore Caves, Bamboo Boat Ride & Swim. If transport is included, our driver will pick you up from your hotel in the heart of Hanoi. From there, we'll begin our journey to Halong City, enjoying a scenic drive through the picturesque Red River Delta. The trip takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with a convenient stop along the way for restrooms if needed.

Cruise: Sena Cruise – 2D1N

160km – 3h

Day 13 — Lan Ha Bay – Hanoi

Practice Tai Chi, kayak through Tra Bau, swim in emerald waters, return to Hanoi.. 06:00 : Start your day early with a sunrise photo opportunity and join our Tai Chi session on the sundeck to rejuvenate your body and mind. 07:00 : The Sena Cruise sails through more majestic karst formations. Enjoy tea, coffee, and a light breakfast in the fresh morning air. 08:15 : Experience kayaking and swimming in the peaceful waters of Tra Bau, one of the filming locations for Kong: Skull Island (2018). Discover hidden corners and soak up the serene atmosphere. 09:30 : Return to the boat and check out of your cabin. 10:00 : While enjoying a set-menu early light lunch , Sena Cruise gently sails back toward the harbor, passing by a panorama of limestone cliffs. 11:30 – 11:45 : Arrive at the harbor, disembark , and farewell to the crew.

Stay: La Nueva Boutique Hotel ★★★ (Premium Room) *or similar hotel

160km – 3h

Day 14 — Hanoi

Transfer to Noi Bai Airport for your departure flight.. Our driver will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel in Hanoi and take you to Noi Bai Airport . The drive takes approximately 45 minutes.

35km – 0.75h

What’s Included

Included

  • Accommodation as listed, with daily breakfast
  • Halong Bay cruise: Sena Cruise – 2D1N
  • Private English-speaking guide throughout
  • Private air-conditioned car & driver
  • Entrance fees & permits in the itinerary
  • Meals: Breakfast: 12, Lunch: 08, Dinner: 01
  • 02 bottles of water per person per day on tour
  • 24/7 WhatsApp · cabin & pickup confirmed within 1 hour

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Vietnam e-visa (~$25)
  • Travel insurance (required)
  • Drinks, tips & personal expenses
  • Optional activities not listed
  • Meals not specified

Pricing

Private tour, price per person — it drops as your group grows (your own guide & car are shared). Pick your group and room type for an indicative from-price; your exact price for specific dates (seasonal, only ~7% either way) is confirmed within 1 hour on WhatsApp.

From $1,701 / person

Get exact price on WhatsApp →

Group size Sharing twin/double Private single
1 traveller (solo) $2,943
2 travellers $1,701 $2,169
3 travellers $1,495 $1,963
4 travellers $1,367 $1,835
5 travellers $1,278 $1,747
6 travellers $1,228 $1,696
7 travellers $1,191 $1,660
8 travellers $1,242 $1,711

Indicative from-prices (season varies ~7%). Single traveller = private single room. Child (2–11, sharing): reduced rate · Infant (<2): free — confirmed in your quote.

Good to Know

Is 14 days enough to enjoy this route?

Yes — this 14-day private itinerary is paced so you see Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and more without rushing. We can shorten or extend any part to fit your dates.

Best time to travel?

March–April and October–November are the most reliable nationwide. Northern Vietnam is cool and dry December–February. We’ll advise the best dates for your route.

Can I customize it?

Fully — change hotels, upgrade your cruise cabin, add or remove stops. It’s a private tour built around you.

How do I pay?

After we agree your itinerary we send a secure online payment link. Cabin & pickup confirmed within 1 hour, honest local pricing.

Get your free, no-obligation quote

Tell us your dates and what you’d like — Ava replies within 1 hour with a tailored itinerary and honest pricing. No payment now; you only pay online once you’re happy.





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