Vietnam Explorer: Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi in 12 Days

Starting Point: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)

DAY 1 | ARRIVAL IN HO CHI MINH CITY

Welcome to Vietnam.

Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel in the city center. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax or begin exploring the vibrant energy of Vietnam’s largest city.

From bustling boulevards and hidden cafés to lively markets and rooftop views, Saigon offers the perfect introduction to the country’s rich culture and dynamic spirit.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 2 | SAIGON HERITAGE & CU CHI TUNNELS (B, L)

Discover the fascinating history and vibrant culture of Ho Chi Minh City on a full-day journey through its most iconic landmarks. Visit the historic Reunification Palace, admire the elegant French colonial architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, and gain deeper insight into Vietnam’s past at the War Remnants Museum.

Explore some of the city’s most iconic sites before heading to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels. This remarkable underground network offers insight into the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people during wartime and remains one of the country’s most important historical attractions.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 3 | MEKONG DELTA DISCOVERY (B, L)

Journey into the lush Mekong Delta, a region shaped by winding waterways, fertile orchards, and traditional riverside communities.

Cruise along peaceful canals, visit local workshops, sample tropical fruits, and experience daily life in one of Vietnam’s most culturally rich regions. The tranquil scenery and warm local hospitality offer a memorable glimpse into the country’s rural heartland.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 4 | HO CHI MINH CITY – DA NANG – HOI AN (B)

Fly to Central Vietnam and continue to the enchanting town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its timeless charm.

Wander through lantern-lined streets, historic merchant houses, and hidden alleyways that reflect centuries of cultural exchange. As evening falls, the ancient town transforms into a magical setting illuminated by thousands of colorful lanterns along the riverbanks.

Overnight in Hoi An.

DAY 5 | TRA QUE VILLAGE EXPERIENCE (B, L)

This morning, leave the ancient streets of Hoi An behind and cycle through peaceful countryside landscapes to Tra Que Vegetable Village. Here, meet local farmers and gain insight into traditional farming practices that have sustained the community for generations.

Participate in simple hands-on activities, from preparing the soil to harvesting fresh herbs, before enjoying a delicious farm-to-table lunch featuring regional specialties. The afternoon is free to relax, explore Hoi An at your own pace, or simply soak up the town’s laid-back atmosphere.

Overnight in Hoi An.

DAY 6 | HOI AN – DA NANG – HANOI (B)

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Hoi An. Sip Vietnamese coffee at a local café, stroll through quiet streets, or browse artisan boutiques before transferring to Da Nang Airport.

Fly to Hanoi, Vietnam’s elegant capital, where centuries of history blend seamlessly with modern city life. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a free evening exploring the vibrant Old Quarter, known for its lively markets, street food, and charming colonial architecture.

Overnight in Hanoi.

DAY 7 | HANOI CULTURE & TRADITIONAL CRAFT VILLAGES (B, L)

Today offers a deeper connection to Vietnam’s cultural heritage. Travel to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, where vibrant bundles of incense create one of the country’s most photogenic scenes, and continue to Chuong Village, renowned for its centuries-old conical hat-making tradition.

In the afternoon, return to Hanoi to explore the Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison Museum, two important landmarks that reveal different chapters of Vietnam’s rich history.

Overnight in Hanoi.

DAY 8 | HANOI – NINH BINH (B, L, D)

Journey south to Ninh Binh, a region of dramatic limestone mountains, winding rivers, and peaceful countryside often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on Land.”

Enjoy a tranquil sampan boat ride through Tam Coc’s spectacular landscapes before cycling through rural villages and rice fields. Later, climb to the viewpoint at Mua Cave and admire one of Northern Vietnam’s most breathtaking panoramas.

Overnight in Ninh Binh.

DAY 9 | CUC PHUONG NATIONAL PARK – HANOI (B, L)

Spend the day immersed in nature at Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s oldest protected forest.

Visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center and learn about ongoing conservation efforts before exploring lush rainforest trails rich in biodiversity. Discover the fascinating Cave of Early Man, where evidence of prehistoric habitation was uncovered.

Return to Hanoi in the afternoon.

Overnight in Hanoi.

DAY 10 | HANOI – SAPA – CAT CAT VILLAGE (B, L, D)

Leave the bustling capital behind and journey into the breathtaking mountains of Northern Vietnam.

Upon arrival in Sapa, begin exploring Cat Cat Village, home to the Black Hmong community. Walk through terraced rice fields, admire cascading waterfalls, and gain insight into the traditions and daily life of one of Vietnam’s most distinctive ethnic groups.

Overnight in Sapa.

DAY 11 | FANSIPAN – THE ROOF OF INDOCHINA (B, L)

Today is dedicated to one of Vietnam’s most unforgettable natural wonders.

Ascend by cable car to Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina, where panoramic views stretch across endless mountain ranges and valleys. Later, explore the picturesque villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van, where traditional lifestyles continue amidst some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes.

Overnight in Sapa.

DAY 12 | SAPA – HANOI – DEPARTURE (B)

Enjoy a final morning surrounded by the fresh mountain air of Sapa before beginning the journey back to Hanoi.

Reflect on the memories created throughout your adventure as you travel through Northern Vietnam’s stunning scenery. Upon arrival in Hanoi, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

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