Explore Vietnam's Best Natural Wonders & Cultural Sites - 16 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi, Explore the Capital at Leisure

Welcome to Vietnam's bustling capital, Hanoi! Meet your driver outside the airport and transfer to your hotel to check in. After settling into your room, spend the rest of the day exploring the city at your own pace. A good place to start is the Old Quarter, where each street is named after the goods traditionally sold there, such as silk and silver. Hop on a cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle) or wander past lively markets, artisan shops, and street food stalls for a glimpse into local life. Stop to try Vietnamese dishes like bun cha (noodle soup with grilled pork) or goi cuon (fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, herbs, and noodles).

Then, continue to Hoan Kiem Gölü, a pristine lake surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque walkways. Stroll across the charming red bridge to get to Ngoc Son Temple located on an island in the middle of the lake. Admire the intricate carvings, vibrant decorations, and panoramic views of the water. If you're visiting on the weekend, return to the Old Quarter to peruse the Hanoi Night Market. The streets are closed to traffic and filled with vendors selling a variety of goods, like handmade jewelry, silk, and street food, so you can shop for souvenirs or get something to eat for dinner.

Day 2: Full-Day Tour of Hanoi

Join your guide on a full-day tour of the capital, starting at 8:00 am with a visit to Hang Be Market in the heart of the Old Quarter. Wander through the narrow aisles lined with vendors selling everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional Vietnamese handicrafts and street food. Then, head to Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest temple in the city, dating back to the sixth century. Admire the red-and-gold architecture and 49-foot-tall (15 m) stupa before continuing to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Inside, you'll find a collection of artifacts, photographs, and multimedia exhibits showcasing the country's 54 recognized ethnic communities. Stop at a local restaurant for a delicious lunch, then visit the 11th-century Temple of Literature, an ancient complex dedicated to Confucius that served as the country's first university. Wander through the intricate gate to discover the serene gardens, traditional Vietnamese architecture, and stone tablets honoring past scholars.

From here, walk around the outside of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the country's founding father rests in peace. Stop at the stilt house where he lived and worked to marvel at the traditional architectural style. Your last stop is the One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic Buddhist temple built in the 11th century on a single stone pillar above a serene lotus pond. The temple itself resembles a lotus flower, as it's a symbol of purity, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening. After an action-packed day of sightseeing, transfer back to your hotel to relax. 

Day 3: Transfer to Mai Chau, Trekking Through the Villages of Mai Chau

Say goodbye to Hanoi this morning as you meet your driver for a four-hour transfer to the town of Mai Chau, set in a picturesque valley surrounded by towering mountains and rice paddies. When you arrive, change into your hiking gear and set off on a one-hour transfer to the village of Xa Linh. There, you can start your 2-4-hour trek to Pa Co, home to the Green Hmong, a subgroup of Vietnam's Hmong ethnic group. As you walk through verdant rice fields, terraced slopes, and rolling hills, you'll learn about the Green Hmong's customs and traditions. 

Stop for a picnic lunch before continuing the hike through some White Thai villages to learn about the locals' day-to-day lives. The White Thai people have lived in this region for generations, preserving their customs, agricultural practices, and traditional crafts that are different from other Thai ethnic groups. Immerse yourself in this unique culture as you end the day with a traditional music and dance performance. Watch as the performers, adorned in hand-embroidered costumes, showcase their culture through graceful dances that tell stories of their daily lives, legends, and agricultural traditions.

Day 4: Kayaking Excursion on the Da River

After breakfast, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and transfer to the Da River for a kayaking excursion. Jump on board and start paddling through the crystal-clear waters surrounded by limestone cliffs, lush forests, and riverside villages. The gentle currents make the journey suitable for all skill levels, allowing you to focus on the natural beauty of the landscape. Get a close-up look at the floating houses and observe the friendly locals fishing or tending to their farms. Then, stop at the Fairy Pond to admire the serene turquoise waters. Enjoy a local lunch before transferring back to your hotel for a free afternoon.

Day 5: Transfer to Ninh Binh, Boat Tour of the Trang An Landscape Complex 

Trade one iconic natural landscape for another this morning as you transfer three hours to Ninh Binh, often called the "Ha Long Bay on land." When you arrive, hit the ground running with a three-hour boat trip to explore the UNESCO-listed Trang An Landscape Complex. Navigate the series of interconnected rivers and marvel at the surrounding ancient temples, lush vegetation, and towering cliffs. The highlight of the tour is passing through a network of caves and grottoes, some of which are so low that you have to duck as the boat maneuvers through the water-carved tunnels. 

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the nearby Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, home to the remnants of 10th and 11th century palaces, temples, and fortifications set against a backdrop of towering limestone mountains. Highlights of the site include the temples dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang and Emperor Le Dai Hanh, where intricate carvings and statues honor these historical figures. After exploring one of Vietnam's former capitals, transfer to your hotel to check in.

Day 6: Transfer to Ha Long Bay, Board an Overnight Cruise

After a restful night in Ninh Binh, it's time to see the real Ha Long Bay on a one-night cruise. Start with a 3.5-hour transfer to the marina, where you can board a multilevel cruise ship to discover this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. Settle into your cabin, then head up to the deck for a delicious seafood lunch. When you're done eating, make your way to the sun deck to relax and enjoy views of the limestone karsts rising from the emerald waters.

In the afternoon, stop at a secret cove for a refreshing swim and a kayak trip to hidden beaches and grottoes. Return to the ship in time to participate in a cooking class offered by the onboard expert chef. During the workshop, you'll learn how to make traditional specialties like nem ran (fried spring rolls filled with ground meat, vegetables, and glass noodles) and enjoy them for dinner. Spend the remainder of the evening relaxing, or head out on a small boat for a bit of night fishing with the locals. Be sure to look up at the sky full of stars uninterrupted by city lights before returning to your cabin.

Day 7: Disembark the Cruise, Transfer to Da Nang via Hanoi

Wake up early and head to the deck for a sunrise tai chi session, which can help improve muscle strength, enhance coordination, and increase flexibility. Then, sit down and enjoy breakfast in the open air as you cruise around towering karst islets. Stop to explore another magnificent limestone sea cave before returning to the port at midday. Your driver will be waiting to transfer you three hours to the airport in Hanoi for a 1.5-hour flight to Da Nang, a picturesque coastal city known for its pristine beaches.

After transferring to your hotel to check in, head to Pham Van Dong Beach to watch the sunset. This is one of Da Nang's less crowded beaches, so you can enjoy the natural spectacle in a more tranquil atmosphere. When darkness falls, visit one of the beachfront restaurants for typical Vietnamese dishes like pho (noodle soup typically made with beef or chicken) or mi quang (turmeric noodles topped with shrimp, pork, and crushed peanuts). 

Day 8: Enjoy a Free Day in Da Nang

Today is free for you to spend as you wish. If you want to relax, head to My Khe Beach, known for its soft white sands and clear waters. Spend the day sunbathing, swimming, or partaking in water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, surfing, or kayaking. If you're looking for a bit more adventure, consider a visit to Ba Na Hills instead. This popular tourist attraction is best known for its cable car, which holds the Guinness World Record for the longest nonstop single-track cable car at over 19,028 feet (5,800 m). As you ascend to the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the lush mountains and valleys below. 

Once at the top, explore a range of attractions, including the French Village with its charming architecture, the magnificent Linh Ung Pagoda housing a giant statue of the Lady Buddha, and the iconic Golden Bridge, held up by colossal stone hands. When you get hungry, visit one of the on-site buffet restaurants or return to the city for dinner at a beachfront eatery. Indulge in fresh seafood while you watch the sunset transform the sky into vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple.

Day 9: Transfer to Hoi An, Half-Day Sightseeing Tour

Discover another coastal city today, Hoi An, known for its UNESCO-listed Ancient Town. When you arrive, check in at your hotel, then join your guide on a half-day sightseeing tour. Walk past the old town's beautifully preserved wooden houses, historic temples, and colorful storefronts adorned with traditional lanterns. Stop at landmarks like the 18th-century Japanese Bridge or Old House of Tan Ky, offering a glimpse into the lives of affluent trading families during the city's prosperous era as a bustling port town.

You'll also pass the Assembly Hall Of Fujian Chinese, built in the 17th century as a gathering place for the Fujian community. Enter to see the ornate decorations, intricate carvings, and vibrant frescoes depicting the goddess Thien Hau, the protector of sailors and fishermen. Stop at a local fish market to observe the locals going about their day-to-day lives, or visit a tailor to order custom-made clothes before returning to your hotel. 

Day 10: Fly to Nha Trang, Free Time to Explore the Seaside City

Leave Hoi An behind after just one night as you transfer to the airport for a one-hour flight to Nha Trang, a bustling seaside city on the south-central coast. Upon arrival, your driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Check in and change into your bathing suit to enjoy some free time on Nha Trang Beach. The beach stretches for miles, providing ample space for sunbathing, beach games, and leisurely strolls along the water's edge. If you want to partake in watersports, there are plenty to choose from, including snorkeling in the nearby coral reefs, jet skiing, and parasailing. 

Those who want to go sightseeing instead can visit Ponagar Temple, a seventh-century Cham temple complex dedicated to the goddess Po Nagar, who's revered as the protector of seafarers and farmers. As you ascend the steps leading to the temple, you'll be greeted by panoramic views of turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and the vibrant skyline in the distance. At the top, discover the intricate carvings and ornate sculptures adorning the temple, showcasing a blend of Hindu and local influences. 

Day 11: Boat & Snorkeling Tour of Nearby Islands

Start your day with a visit to the Institute of Oceanography, where you can see an impressive collection of marine specimens and artifacts that highlight the importance of ocean conservation. As you explore the various exhibits, you'll encounter everything from colorful coral reefs to tropical fish, crustaceans, and sea turtles. After your educational visit, hop on a boat and sail to Hon Mun, a small island known for its pristine beaches and vibrant underwater ecosystems, making it a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

The island is also dotted with caves that sea swallows use to build their nests. Look out at the caves from the boat and try to see the nests made from hardened saliva that are used in bird's nest soup. Continue to either Hon Mot, Hon Tre, or Hon Tam for some free time to relax on the pristine beaches, swim, and partake in water sports. Enjoy a fresh lunch at one of the islands or the village of Con Se Tre before returning to the port. On the way back, you'll make one more stop at a fishing village to watch the fishermen casting their nets, setting traps, and bringing in the day's catch.

Day 12: Explore Nha Trang at Your Own Pace

Your final day in Nha Trang is free for you to explore on your own. You could return to Nha Trang Beach or head out of the city to the more tranquil Bai Dai Beach. If you want a more action-packed day, visit VinWonders Nha Trang instead. This vibrant amusement park features themed zones, including an exciting water park, an adventure park, and areas dedicated to cultural experiences. Ride the adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters, search for marine life at the aquarium, and end the day with a dance show highlighting Vietnam's rich heritage. 

Day 13: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, Explore Vietnam's Largest City at Leisure

Today, you head to your final destination, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis. After the one-hour flight, meet your driver outside the airport and transfer to your hotel to check in. The rest of the day is free for you to explore on your own. If you want to learn about the country's history, visit the War Remnants Museum. Peruse the extensive collection of photographs, artifacts, and military equipment to understand the horrors of the Vietnam War and the resilience of the people who lived through it. 

Those who want to shop for souvenirs can head to Ben Than Market. Browse the stalls overflowing with fresh produce, spices, textiles, and local handicrafts. You can also find an array of delicious street food here, like xoi (sticky rice topped with ingredients like mung beans or shredded coconut) or banh xeo (savory pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs). When it's time, return to your hotel to meet your driver and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels!

Day 14: Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

Learn more about the Vietnam War today as you take a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, which the Viet Cong soldiers used as a strategic base for guerrilla warfare. This complex of tunnels stretches over 155 miles (250 km) and features storage facilities, makeshift hospitals, living areas, and plenty of hiding spots. As you navigate through the tunnels, which can be quite narrow and low, you'll learn about the soldiers' resourcefulness and resilience. You'll even get a chance to crawl through a section of the tunnel to experience the limited dimensions before returning to the city for a free evening.

Day 15: Day Trip to the Mekong Delta, Boat Tour of Ben Tre River

You have time for one last adventure, a visit to the lush Mekong Delta, known as the "Rice Bowl of Vietnam," because it's the country's most productive agricultural region. When you arrive after the three-hour transfer, board a boat and sail along the Ben Tre River, one of the Mekong's many tributaries. As you glide along the river, you'll pass coconut trees, fishermen casting their nets, and small villages on stilts. Visit different businesses along the way, like a brick workshop, honey bee farm, and coconut candy workshop, to learn about the local industries and culture.

Stop at a small riverside village for a cup of tea with a local family that makes handwoven rush mats. After learning about their livelihood, explore the village by bike or xe loi (motor cart) to observe the locals' day-to-day lives. Enjoy views of the emerald rice fields, vegetable farms, and exotic fruit orchards surrounding the village. Then, have lunch at a local restaurant on the banks of the river before trying your hand at rowing along a creek. Following the full-day tour, you'll return to Ho Chi Minh City for a laid-back evening.

Day 16: Depart Ho Chi Minh City

Wake up early to do a bit more sightseeing before your flight home. Consider a visit to the 19th-century Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon to admire the neo-Romanesque architecture. Look up at the striking red brick facade with two soaring bell towers that reach 190 feet tall (58 m) before stepping inside for a closer look at the stained glass windows and intricate wooden altar. Then, stroll to the nearby Saigon Central Post Office, an architectural gem blending French colonial and Gothic styles. When it's time, meet your driver back at the hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels!