Your 12-day North-to-South journey through Vietnam begins in the historic capital of Hanoi. Upon arrival, a friendly English-speaking guide will greet you at the airport and accompany you to your centrally located hotel. The rest of the day’s program will be adapted to your arrival time, offering a smooth and personalized start to your adventure.

Begin your discovery of Hanoi with a visit to some of its most iconic landmarks:

• King Ly Thai To Square: Step into a thousand years of Vietnamese history at this symbolic square.

• Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Restored Sword): Explore the serene lake at the heart of the city, home to the Ngoc Son Temple (Temple of the Jade Mountain) and Turtle Islet.

• Hanoi Old Quarter: Stroll through the famous 36 streets of the Old Quarter, each traditionally linked to a particular trade. Visit Ma May Street to explore a preserved traditional “tube house,” a unique feature of old Hanoi architecture.

After your walking tour, enjoy some free time to relax and unwind.

Overnight stay at your hotel in Hanoi.

Your day begins with our tour guide picking you up directly from your hotel. For your city exploration, you can choose between a comfortable ride in a luxury limousine or a more adventurous experience on the back of a motorbike—whichever suits your style best.

Today’s itinerary includes several of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks:

• Temple of Literature: A revered symbol of Vietnam’s scholarly tradition, this historic site was the country’s first university and remains a place where students come to seek blessings before exams.

• One Pillar Pagoda: Known for its distinctive lotus-inspired design, this pagoda is both an architectural marvel and a spiritual treasure, famous throughout Asia.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A must-visit destination, where visitors come to honor the beloved national leader and explore the surrounding complex rich with cultural and historical significance.

• Tran Quoc Pagoda: Set on the shores of West Lake, this is Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist pagoda, celebrated for its tranquil setting and elegant, time-honored architecture.

After your cultural tour, you’ll enjoy an authentic Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant. Then, our guide will accompany you back to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience.

Begin your day with a departure to Ninh Binh, a region often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land” for its dramatic limestone karsts, lush rice fields, and winding rivers that flood the landscape year-round.

Upon arrival in Ninh Xuan, head to Mua Mountain. Climb the 486 white stone steps that lead to the summit of this bell-shaped mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over the Tam Coc area and its striking scenery.

Continue your journey with a transfer to Tam Coc, where you’ll enjoy a peaceful bike ride through the countryside. Cycle past vibrant rice fields, small traditional villages, and the iconic karst formations that make this region so picturesque.

In the afternoon, embark on a serene boat trip along the Ngo Dong River. Glide beneath towering limestone cliffs, pass through rice paddies, and journey through the three natural caves at the foot of the karsts—one of the highlights of the Tam Coc experience.

After a day immersed in nature and tranquility, return to Hanoi for an overnight stay at your hotel, carrying with you the stunning impressions of Ninh Binh’s beauty.

Depart from Hanoi and journey to Halong Bay, renowned as Vietnam’s most breathtaking natural wonder and one of Asia’s most magical landscapes. Upon arrival, board a traditional wooden junk boat, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by the crew before setting off on a memorable cruise through the bay.

Your cruise will explore the Bai Tu Long Bay area, the quieter northern section of Halong Bay, offering equally majestic scenery with fewer crowds.

Highlights of the day include:

• Admiring countless islands and islets shaped like sails, dogs, roosters, incense burners, and more—each with its own legend.

• Visiting Thien Canh Son Cave, an enchanting grotto filled with ancient stalactites and stalagmites.

• Cruising onward to Cap La, where you can kayak among the limestone formations and, weather permitting, enjoy a refreshing swim in the calm, emerald waters.

As the sun sets, unwind on the upper deck of the junk, soaking in the serene atmosphere of the bay.

You’ll be treated to lunch and dinner on board, featuring delicious Vietnamese cuisine. After dinner, enjoy a relaxing evening—perhaps with night fishing, a card game, or simply stargazing.

Overnight stay on board the junk in the heart of Halong Bay.

Wake up early to witness a breathtaking moment: sunrise over the limestone peaks of Halong Bay, a serene and unforgettable start to your day. Join a Tai Chi session on the terrace deck to stretch and center yourself in the calm morning air.

After breakfast, set out on a boat or kayak excursion to the peaceful fishing village of Vung Vieng. As you glide through the quiet waters, you’ll have the chance to observe the traditional lifestyle of the villagers and, time permitting, engage with some of the local residents.

Return to the junk for a leisurely lunch on board as your cruise comes to a close.

Disembark and make your way back to Hanoi, where you’ll transfer to the airport for your evening flight to Hue—Vietnam’s former imperial capital nestled in the central region.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay in Hue.

Begin your day with a city tour of Hue, Vietnam’s final imperial capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once home to 13 generations of Nguyen emperors from 1802 to 1945, Hue holds a profound legacy of royal history, culture, and architecture.

Today’s highlights include:

• Minh Mang Mausoleum: Visit the elaborate tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, renowned not only for his leadership but also for fathering 142 children with 43 concubines. The complex is admired for its harmonious design set among lakes and gardens.

• Phu Mong Village: Take a peaceful stroll through this village known for its garden houses—a unique feature of Hue’s architectural and imperial heritage.

• Thien Mu Pagoda: Explore Hue’s most iconic and picturesque pagoda, overlooking the Perfume River. Alternatively, visit the tranquil Tu Hieu Pagoda, the resting place of many eunuchs from the Nguyen dynasty. If timing allows, you may witness the monks’ prayer ceremony, adding a spiritual depth to your visit.

• Dong Ba Market: Conclude your day at Hue’s bustling central market, the oldest and largest in the city. Browse for traditional items like conical hats, silk tunics, and local delicacies.

Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Hue, enriched by a day of historical and cultural immersion.

Embark on a picturesque road journey from Hue to Hoi An, traveling approximately 150 km along one of Vietnam’s most scenic coastal routes. To enrich your experience, several captivating stops are included along the way:

• Thuan An and Lang Co Beaches: Pause to admire the peaceful beauty of these less-touristed stretches of golden sand. Nearby, expansive lagoons support local fish farms that sustain the surrounding communities.

• Hai Van Pass: Drive along this legendary mountain pass—the highest in central Vietnam—offering dramatic views of the coastline and serving as a natural border between northern and southern Vietnam.

• Local Melaleuca Oil Workshops: Stop at a small factory where locals produce melaleuca (cajeput) oil, prized for its medicinal and aromatic properties.

• “Ghost Town” Cemeteries: Glimpse the unique and poetic roadside cemeteries with tombs built in the form of grand, ornate castles, showcasing an eclectic mix of Asian architectural styles. From afar, they resemble entire miniature cities.

In the afternoon, arrive in the charming town of Hoi An. Complete your check-in at the hotel and enjoy a relaxing overnight stay, preparing for the days of discovery ahead.

Embark on a captivating walking tour through the Old Quarter of Hoi An, often hailed as Vietnam’s most enchanting city. Rich in history and architectural charm, this UNESCO World Heritage Site invites you to step back in time and discover its timeless beauty.

Highlights of the walking tour include:

• Fujian Assembly Hall: A vibrant shrine dedicated to Thien Hau, the goddess who protects sailors and fishermen, reflecting Hoi An’s maritime heritage.

• Phuc Thanh Pagoda: The oldest pagoda in Hoi An, established in 1454, known for its serene ambiance and historical significance.

• Japanese Covered Bridge: Built in 1593, this iconic structure connects the old Chinese and Japanese quarters and is a symbol of the city’s multicultural past.

• Wander the ancient streets lined with traditional wooden houses, charming museums, and boutique silk and lantern shops—perfect for discovering local crafts and souvenirs.

After exploring the town, continue your adventure with a leisurely bike ride into the Hoi An countryside. Pedal past peaceful rice paddies, traditional hamlets, shrimp ponds, and vibrant vegetable gardens. Stop at Cam Chau Village to visit a lantern workshop, where you’ll learn about the intricate art of lantern-making—from bamboo framing and dyeing to paper layering and final assembly.

Return to Hoi An in the late afternoon and enjoy a relaxed evening at your hotel, soaking in the charm of this historic riverside town.

Spend a leisurely full day exploring the many charms of Hoi An at your own pace. This enchanting riverside town offers a variety of enriching and relaxing options:

• Wander the Old Quarter: Get lost in the town’s narrow, lantern-lit streets, discovering hidden alleyways, traditional shophouses, and centuries-old temples. Hoi An is also a haven for shopping—browse local lacquerware, handicrafts, and souvenirs at your own rhythm.

• Tailor-made fashion: Take advantage of Hoi An’s renowned tailor shops, where skilled artisans can craft custom garments within a day or two, tailored exactly to your taste.

• Countryside cycling: Enjoy a peaceful bike ride through scenic rural landscapes just beyond the city. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages known for traditional crafts like vegetable farming, pottery, and wood carving.

• Beach time (weather permitting): If you’re in the mood for relaxation, head to the idyllic shores of Cua Dai or An Bang Beach. These pristine stretches of sand offer crystal-clear waters, peaceful ambiance, and a perfect setting for soaking up the sun or savoring fresh seafood by the sea.

After a day filled with discovery and rest, return to your hotel in Hoi An for a peaceful overnight stay.

After your flight to Ho Chi Minh City—Vietnam’s vibrant southern capital, formerly known as Saigon—begin your exploration with a deep dive into the city’s historic colonial center, affectionately called “Colonial Saigon.” Your itinerary for the day includes:

• Ben Thanh Market: A lively and iconic landmark where you can experience the local hustle and bustle while browsing a wide array of goods, from souvenirs and textiles to fresh produce and street food.

• Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office: Admire two of the city’s most treasured architectural gems, built during the French colonial period. Both were designed by French architect Gustave Eiffel, and they reflect Saigon’s historical blend of East and West.

• People’s Committee Building: Formerly the Central Town Hall, this elegant colonial structure now serves as a government office and is one of the most photogenic buildings in the city.

• Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine (FITO Museum): Delve into the fascinating world of 3,000-year-old Vietnamese medicine. This museum houses over 3,000 items, from ancient tools to herbal remedies, and offers insights into traditional healing practices still used today.

In the late afternoon, return to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy a relaxed evening and overnight stay, reflecting on a day filled with culture, history, and local flavor.

Set off for a journey deep into the Mekong Delta, a lush and labyrinthine region where land and water intertwine to create one of Vietnam’s most captivating landscapes.

Your adventure begins in Ben Tre, a bustling riverside town nestled among the northern tributaries of the Mekong River. From here, travel by boat to Mo Cay, a tranquil and less-visited area famed for its coconut industry. Learn about the region’s rich craftsmanship involving coconut products—from fibers and brooms to charcoal and sweets.

Continue your exploration with a leisurely bike ride or Xe Lôi (a motorized tricycle) through lush countryside trails blanketed by endless coconut groves. This off-the-beaten-path route winds through peaceful hamlets and green landscapes, with stops to witness the local production of coconut candy and traditional brooms.

Next, embark on a serene rowing boat journey through narrow arroyos shaded by water palm trees—an intimate window into the rhythms of daily life in the delta. Along the way, visit Mr. Van’s traditional home, where you’ll be warmly welcomed with coconut jam, honey tea with pollen, and engaging conversations with the local family.

As the golden light of the afternoon sets in, transfer to An Binh Island in the heart of the Mekong and settle into Madame Thuy’s charming guesthouse, surrounded by a peaceful, flower-filled garden. Enjoy some free time to unwind in the tranquil atmosphere of this riverside oasis.

In the evening, join the host in preparing a traditional Vietnamese dinner and enjoy the fruits of your labor during a cozy, homemade meal.

Spend the night at Madame Thuy’s, serenaded by the gentle sounds of the Mekong for a truly immersive and peaceful stay.

Wake up early, greet the guests, and then transfer to Can Tho, known as the capital of the delta, situated on the right bank of the southern arm of the Mekong River.

Upon arrival, embark on a boat journey along the Mekong. Visit the Cai Rang floating market, which presents a vibrant spectacle with numerous boats laden with fruits, vegetables, and various other goods. Experience the unique ‘river trade’ practiced by the inhabitants of the Mekong region.

Afterward, disembark for a visit to the An Binh land market, located opposite Cai Rang, providing an intriguing comparison between the floating and land markets. Continue to Phong Dien, visit an orchard, and then enjoy a bicycle ride through small hamlets along the So Dua River.

In the afternoon, return to Ho Chi Minh City to conclude the “12 Days from North to South in Vietnam” tour.

A tour guide will accompany you to the airport for your departure flight.