From Hanoi to Saigon: Vietnam Journey by Train | Authentic Tour – 15 Days

Welcome to Hanoi, enjoy a walking tour in the old quarter

Set foot on Noi Bai Airport, you will be met by your tour guide and driver at the pickup area. Enjoy a 45-minute drive to the Hanoi Old Quarter, where your guide will introduce you to the city's top sights, cultural highlights, traffic patterns, and culinary scene. After checking into your hotel and resting (hotel check-in is at 14:00), you’ll begin a guided walking tour.

Your tour starts at Ba Da Pagoda, a tranquil spot in a small alley near the Hanoi Great Cathedral, which was built by the French in the 19th century. Continue exploring traditional streets like Lan Ong Street, known for its herbal medicine, and Lo Ren Street, famous for metal crafts. Visit Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi’s largest market, before heading to Ta Hien Street. This lively area is known for its night-time buzz and street food, where you can enjoy tasting some local specialties.

Note: If your flight arrival late or you are jet leg after long flight, the walking tour will be moved to the city tour day.

Included:
English speaking guide
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Exploring the center of culture & education Van Mieu, outstanding museum of ethnology, visiting French Quarter and discovering Old town

9:00 AM: Start your adventure with a pick-up from your hotel and head to the Temple of Literature, a grand 11th-century edifice founded by the Ly dynasty to honor Confucius and educate royal heirs. Wander through the tranquil gardens to admire Khue Van Cac, the iconic “Pavilion of the Constellation of Literature,” and take in its symbolism as Hanoi’s emblem of learning. Don’t miss the stone steles, ancient World Heritage artifacts inscribed with the names of Vietnam's most celebrated scholars. Continue your visit at Quoc Tu Giam, Vietnam’s premier national university, a site brimming with historical significance.

Afterward, head to the Ethnology Museum. Note that it’s closed on Mondays, but when open, it offers a deep dive into Vietnam's diverse cultures. Explore traditional homes, intricate artifacts, clothing, and musical instruments from various ethnic groups, with a recommended visit time of about two hours.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the elegant ambiance of Hanoi's French Quarter, often likened to “little Paris” for its grand squares, stately government buildings, and picturesque tree-lined boulevards. View Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum from the exterior, then take a leisurely stroll through the Botanical Gardens to the Presidential Palace, once Ho Chi Minh’s residence and administrative center. Cap off your visit with a stop at the One-Pillar Pagoda, a renowned city landmark. Depending on the crowd, exploring this historical complex may take between one to two hours.

End your day with a delightful water puppet show, an ancient Vietnamese tradition originating in the 11th century. Experience the enchanting performances of puppets dancing on water, vividly depicting local legends, everyday life, and spiritual beliefs, often accompanied by traditional music.

Return to your hotel, concluding a day rich in cultural exploration and historical discovery.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Leisure: Water puppet
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Biking to Thung La temple and then a boat trip in Van Long Nature Reserve, embroidering experience

At 8:00 AM, transfer from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, enjoying a drive through the beautiful Red River Delta countryside, adorned with rice and vegetable fields.

Upon arrival, choose between a 15 km bike ride or a leisurely walk through charming villages. Following the dyke path, you'll be greeted by breathtaking views of rice fields, serene rivers, and majestic limestone mountains. Take your time to snap photos and interact with the friendly locals before heading to Thung La Temple, a historic site dating back to the 11th century. There, you’ll have the chance to meet Mr. Tuong, the temple guardian, who will share insights about the temple and entertain you with a captivating 20-minute drum performance.

Next, embark on a sampan boat trip through the tranquil waters of the Van Long Nature Reserve. Glide among towering limestone formations and, with a bit of luck, spot white monkeys and egrets perched on the cliffs. After your boat excursion, visit a local embroidery village where you’ll have the opportunity to participate in an embroidery workshop led by Mrs. Lam, a skilled craftswoman. She’ll guide you through traditional techniques, giving you a hands-on experience in this intricate art form.

Conclude your day with a return transfer to your hotel in Hanoi, reflecting on a day filled with cultural richness and natural beauty.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Van Long
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Ninh Binh
Leisure: Thung La temple music
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Conifer Grand Hotel(ROH Room)
42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Cruising from Halong to Lan Ha bay, swimming & kayaking, cooking class

9:00 AM: Pickup from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter and embark on a two and a half hour drive to Lan Ha Bay via National Highway No5B. Enjoy views of traditional villages and rice paddies of the Red River Delta, with a scheduled stop for drinks and restrooms. Proceed to the harbor for your cruise departure.

12:00 PM: Arrive at Tuan Chau Port, Quang Ninh province, where the Peony Cruises team will warmly welcome you.

12:30 PM: Transfer to our luxurious Peony Cruises via a support vessel, with a brief itinerary overview provided during the transfer.

1:00 PM: Upon boarding, you’ll be greeted with fresh drinks and cooling towels, followed by a delectable lunch of fresh and varied dishes. The cruise will set sail for the stunning Lan Ha Bay.

3:30 PM: Visit the Tra Bau area, known for its untouched beauty and scenic landscapes. Enjoy kayaking to explore the limestone islands or relax in the cruise’s Jacuzzi pool.

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Join a cooking demonstration to learn how to make classic Vietnamese spring rolls, or go up to the top deck to admire the sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. Happy Hour offers a BUY ONE GET ONE FREE deal at the bar, perfect for capturing sunset photos.

7:30 PM: Delight in a romantic dinner featuring local cuisine, skillfully prepared by our chef.

9:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Relax at the sky bar with exotic cocktails (surcharge applies), enjoy a spa treatment (optional), or spend time on the top deck under the stars. You can also try squid fishing on the main deck.

Included:
Shuttle bus: Hanoi - Tuan Chau
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L, D
Entrance fees
Kayak: Halong
Leisure: Squid fishing,Swimming
Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Peony Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Balcony Cabin)
5/33B Pham Ngu Lao street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Exploring Trung Trang Cave, visiting Cat Ba National park, Transferring back to Hanoi for a night train to Hue

6:00 AM: Start your day with a Tai Chi session as the sun rises over the horizon.

6:45 AM - 7:15 AM: Have breakfast while the boat cruises back to Gia Luan jetty. (Breakfast times may be adjusted based on the real schedule).

7:30 AM - 9:00 AM: Join a tour of the Cat Ba World Biosphere, including a 30-minute transfer to Trung Trang Cave. This spectacular limestone cave features thousands of stalactites in various shapes, offering insights into the cave's geological and ecological significance.

9:30 AM: Return to the boat, check out of your cabin, and leave your luggage outside.

Enjoy an early lunch at the restaurant and settle any outstanding bar bills at the restaurant's desk.

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM: Disembark from the Peony Cruises and transfer back to Tuan Chau Port.

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Arrive at Tuan Chau Port, ready for your next travel segment.

Meet your driver at the port for a two and a half hour drive back to Hanoi on the new No5B highway, crossing the Red River Delta and its surrounding villages. You will be dropped off at your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

In the evening, transfer to Hanoi Train Station for your overnight train journey to Hue.

Included:
English speaking guide (on board)
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Leisure: Morning Tai Chi
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Train:SE3 (Hanoi - Hue) / 19:20 - 08:40 - Deluxe( 4 berths / cabin) / 06 tickets

Full day for Hue city discovery, Perfume River boat trip, excursion to Tien Non, Thanh Tien, Sinh village, the most well-known Thien Mu pagoda and Hue Citadel

Your adventure begins with a tranquil voyage on the Huong River, also known as the Perfume River. Board a traditional royal boat and glide through the heart of the city, absorbing the serene beauty and local life along the riverbanks. Upon reaching Tien Non Village, embark on an optional bike ride through the enchanting villages of Tien Non, Thanh Tien, and Sinh. This leisurely exploration offers a unique glimpse into the daily life and vibrant culture of these communities.

In Tien Non Village, witness local farmers at work and visit the village’s family worship house. Continue your journey to Thanh Tien Village, celebrated for its 400-year-old tradition of crafting delicate paper flowers. Here, you’ll meet Mr. Hieu, a master artisan, who will share the secrets of his craft and explain how these beautiful paper flowers are made to honor ancestors during the New Year. Next, visit Sinh Village, the birthplace of Hue’s famous folklore prints. Discover the ancient art of traditional printing with Mr. Phuoc, and pick up some stunning prints as mementos of your visit.

As the day unfolds, return by boat to the city and head to the Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s spiritual jewel established in 1601. Admire its imposing octagonal tower and take in the breathtaking views over the Perfume River.

Next, delve into the grandeur of the Hue Citadel, the last vestige of Vietnam’s imperial capital. Modeled after the fortifications of Vauban, this sprawling citadel is divided into three distinct areas: the Forbidden City (Cam Thanh), the Imperial City (Hoang Thanh), and the Capital City (Kinh Thanh). Explore its majestic flag tower, the South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Dynasty Temple area, and other historic highlights within this awe-inspiring fortress.

Conclude your day with a return to your hotel, reflecting on a day of captivating cultural encounters and historical exploration.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Boat: Sinh - Tien Non
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Hue
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Rosaleen Boutique Hotel(Deluxe Double Room)
36 Chu Van An street, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam

A short trip to Khai Dinh Tomb before traveling to Hoian, passing by Hai Van pass, Cham sculpture museum. Hoi An half day city

7:30 AM: Embark on your day with a departure from your hotel, journeying towards the Khai Dinh King's Mausoleum nestled on Chau Tru Hill. This 11-year-old tomb is a striking blend of Western and Eastern architectural elements. Ascend the hundred steps to reach the summit, where you’ll find a majestic worship palace adorned with elaborate ceiling art and intricate porcelain decorations. The descent offers a panoramic view of the mausoleum and its scenic landscape.

Continue your journey across the scenic Sea Cloud Pass (Hai Van Pass) and the historic Mandarin Road toward Hoi An. Pause at the pass’s summit to soak in the breathtaking vistas of Da Nang and its shimmering coastline. Once in Da Nang, explore the Cham Museum, home to the world's most extensive collection of Cham artifacts. Following this, take a leisurely stroll along My Khe Beach, where you can admire the grand Goodness of Mercy statues at Linh Ung Pagoda and snap photos of local fishermen at work. Then, drive down the coast to the enchanting town of Hoi An.

In the afternoon, dive into the rich history and charm of Hoi An. Once a thriving Southeast Asian trading port between the 15th and 19th centuries, its Old Town remains a beautifully preserved tapestry of architecture, culture, and everyday life.

Begin your exploration in Cam Pho, one of Hoi An’s oldest neighborhoods. Its unique design, shaped like a Chinese character, reflects the area's deep ties to religion, trade, and cross-cultural interactions with Chinese and Japanese traders.

Next, wander over to the Chua Cau (Japanese Covered Bridge), a 17th-century architectural gem that historically connected the Chinese and Japanese quarters. This iconic bridge has been meticulously preserved and remains a quintessential symbol of Hoi An.

Visit the Quan Thang Ancient House, a beautifully preserved residence showcasing authentic Hoi An architecture. Crafted by skilled artisans from Kim Bong Carpentry Village, this house is adorned with vibrant Oriental carvings and offers a rare glimpse into traditional Hoi An family life.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room)
116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

A great day to Kim Bong, Tra Nhieu, Cam Thanh village, boat trip & biking in countryside, interact with local people.

Meet at your hotel and embark on a bike ride towards the Hoi An dock. Board a boat and set sail across the Thu Bon River to the charming Kim Bong Village. Relax and take in the picturesque riverbanks as you glide through the cool, fresh air.

Kim Bong Village is famous for its exquisite wood carving. Originally influenced by northern Vietnamese techniques, local artisans have seamlessly blended these with Chinese and Japanese styles, creating a unique craftsmanship. Explore the village by bike, observing daily life and visiting local workshops where skilled artisans transform wood into intricate pieces. You can also shop for handcrafted wooden items to take home as souvenirs.

Continue your bike ride through lush rice paddies and across quaint bamboo bridges to Tra Nhieu Village. Absorb the stunning scenery of central Vietnam’s countryside and interact with local artisans: Mr. Kha, who crafts bamboo baskets; Ms. Duoc, a skilled mat weaver; and Mr. Huynh Ri, who specializes in shipbuilding. Enjoy the rural landscape dotted with rice fields, palm trees, and farmers at work.

From Tra Nhieu, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River to Cam Thanh Village. Admire the scenery of water palm trees and fishing farms as you travel. Once in Cam Thanh, board a traditional circular bamboo basket boat for a unique and peaceful exploration of the mangroves. Try your hand at crab collecting amidst the lush palms—a relaxing activity after your bike ride.

Next, unwind at Mr. Phong’s home, where you’ll enjoy green tea and a soothing foot massage using herbs from his garden. Participate in a hands-on cooking class, preparing traditional local dishes such as crispy pancakes with beef, shrimp, and bean sprouts, Hoi An and Tam Huu spring rolls, and grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves. Relish the delicious meal you've helped prepare.

In the afternoon, return to your hotel to relax and reflect on a day filled with cultural experiences and culinary delights.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Cam Thanh,Tra Nhieu - Cam Thanh
Entrance fees
Bike: Hoi An
Leisure: Foot massage
Cooking class: Cam Thanh
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room)
116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Exploring My Son Sanctuary, Champa culture, unique architecture. Then fly to Ho Chi Minh City

8:00 AM: Begin your day with a pick-up from your hotel by your tour guide and driver. Embark on a half-day journey to the sacred My Son Sanctuary, located 40 km from Hoi An. Once the heart of the Champa Kingdom, My Son was a major intellectual and religious hub and may also have been a royal burial site.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, My Son boasts 70 ancient structures made of brick and stone, dating from the 7th to the 13th century. As you explore these remarkable ruins, your guide will provide insights into their cultural, historical, and architectural significance. The tour also includes a captivating traditional Champa dance performance, adding a rich cultural layer to your visit before you leave the sanctuary.

Following your excursion, transfer to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you will be met by a professional guide and driver. During the 30-minute drive to the city center, your guide will introduce you to the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City, sharing tips on local dining, drinking spots, traffic nuances, and cultural insights.

Upon arrival in the city, transfer to your hotel and settle in, ready to explore the vibrant cityscape of Ho Chi Minh City.

Note: Hotel check in time at 14.00

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Flight :VN143 (DAD - SGN) - (Direct) / 20:10 - 22:05 - Vietnam Airlines - Economy / 06 tickets
Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room)
233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Discovering Saigon city with the best highlights: Independence palace, Binh Tay market, China town, Quan Am pagoda and Fito Museum of traditional medicine

9:00 AM: Your day begins with a pick-up from your hotel, whisking you away to the Independence Palace, a symbol of pivotal moments in Vietnamese history. This former residence and office of South Vietnamese presidents is renowned for the dramatic scene of 1975, when a North Vietnamese tank breached its gates, signaling the end of the Vietnam War. Explore the opulent five-story structure, where rooms retain their late 1960s and 1970s flair, and discover the hidden bunker beneath its grandeur.

Next, meander through the bustling streets towards the Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning example of French colonial architecture constructed between 1863 and 1880. This picturesque cathedral stands as a testament to Saigon’s historical European influence.

Wander on to Nguyen Hue Walking Street, where the majestic Saigon Central Post Office awaits. Designed by the celebrated Gustave Eiffel, this architectural marvel, adorned with elegant interiors, still functions as a vibrant post office.

A short drive will transport you to the lively Binh Tay Market in Saigon's vibrant Chinatown. As the city’s largest market, Binh Tay offers a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. Explore its myriad stalls, sample delectable street food, and pick up unique souvenirs from its bustling food court.

Continue to the Quan Am Pagoda, one of Saigon’s most revered spiritual sites. Dedicated to Guan Yin and embodying Taoist principles, this ancient temple provides a serene escape and insight into local spiritual traditions.

End your day with a visit to the Traditional Medicine Museum (FITO). Immerse yourself in the world of ancient remedies and herbal medicine as you explore its collection of magical potions, therapeutic plant formulas, and intriguing antique medical tools.

After a day filled with cultural exploration and historical insights, return to your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the diverse and captivating experiences of Ho Chi Minh City.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room)
233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Special excursion to Cu Chi tunnels and then visiting Cao Dai temple.

8:00 AM: Depart from your hotel for a journey into one of the Vietnam War's most iconic sites—the Cu Chi Tunnels. This extensive subterranean network, stretching over 250 kilometers, served as a hidden city for the Viet Cong during their resistance against American forces. Discover how these intricate tunnels, dug solely with pickaxes and shovels over twenty years, played a crucial role in wartime strategy. Experience the tunnels firsthand as you explore some of their fascinating sections. Nearby, visit the Ben Duoc Memorial Temple, a poignant yet less-touristed site dedicated to the Vietnamese lives lost at Cu Chi, built in 1993.

Next, head to one of Vietnam’s most sacred sites, the Cao Dai Temple. Cao Dai is a uniquely Vietnamese religion blending Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and even Roman Catholicism. At the temple, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the vibrant and colorful midday mass, offering insight into this eclectic faith.

After a day of historical and spiritual exploration, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel in the afternoon.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room)
233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

From Saigon to Mekong discovery: Boat trip & biking in Ben Tre, visiting typical craft village, interact local people, garden tour, overnight in a homestay

8:00 AM: Begin your day with a pickup from your hotel for a transfer to Ben Tre, a scenic region in the Mekong Delta, renowned for its coconut candy.
Arrive at Hung Vuong Pier and board a boat for a trip along the Ben Tre River to observe local life. Continue your journey through a canal to Nhon Thanh Village, where you can enjoy tasting fresh fruits. Explore the village either by bike or tuk-tuk along small pathways, taking in views of coconut groves, rice paddies, and vegetable gardens.

Lunch will be served with a specialty of elephant ear fish in the village. A short walk will provide further insights into the local way of life. Afterward, take a boat ride along a small canal shaded by wild palm trees. Then, transfer to Cai Lay with a one-hour drive. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by your homestay host and participate in preparing Banh Xeo Nam Bo, a traditional dish of the region.
Have dinner and spend the night in Cai Lay.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L, D
Boat: Ben Tre
Private transportation
Tuk Tuk: Ben Tre
Cooking class: Ben Tre homestay
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Hai My's Homestay(Standard Room)
864 Provincial street, Dong Hoa hamlet, Tam Binh village, Cai Lay district, Tien Giang , Vietnam

Mekong discovery: Enjoying fruit garden tour, Kien An Cung pagoda, Huynh Thuy Le's house

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your homestay before setting off on an invigorating bike ride. For the next 1 to 1.5 hours, cycle along scenic paths from Dong Hoa to Tam Binh. As you pedal through vibrant durian, sapota, and longan orchards, immerse yourself in the lush rural landscape and interact with friendly locals. A stop at the local village market offers a glimpse into daily life and a chance to pick up unique local goods. Return to the homestay to refresh yourself with some light refreshments.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, take a one-hour walk along a picturesque trail with a local guide. Continue your journey by cycling to Ngu Hiep Island, where the fertile alluvium of the Mekong River has created a verdant paradise. This extension provides an opportunity to explore an unusual and authentic slice of rural life.

For guests preferring not to bike, a motorbike can be arranged with the tour guide, allowing you to ride pillion for a different perspective.

Transfer to Long Xuyen, stopping en route in Sa Dec. Here, visit the Kien An Cung Pagoda and Huynh Thuy Le's House, famously depicted in Marguerite Duras' novel L’Amant – The Lover. Explore Sa Dec’s bustling market, renowned for its fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish.

Continue your journey to Long Xuyen, where you will visit a Cao Dai Temple and a crocodile farm. The Cao Dai Temple showcases the unique Cao Dai religion, while the crocodile farm offers a glimpse into local aquaculture.

Arrive in Long Xuyen and check into your hotel for a restful overnight stay.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Bike: Ben Tre
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Hoa Binh 1 Hotel(Standard Room)
130 Tran Hung Dao street, Long Xuyen city, An Giang , Vietnam

Mekong discovery: Long Xuyen floating village, Cu Lao Ong Ho island. Back to Ho Chi Minh City

Transfer in the morning to Long Xuyen to experience the bustling floating market and floating village on a minor Mekong River tributary. Observe the daily lives of the riverine community. Take a boat trip to Cu Lao Ong Ho, where a small museum honors President Ton Duc Thang. Cycle around the island and enjoy the picturesque and peaceful surroundings.

Return to Saigon and check into your hotel later in the afternoon.

Included:
English speaking guide
Meal: B, L
Boat: Long Xuyen
Private transportation
Bike: Long Xuyen
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day
Elios Hotel(Senior Superior Room)
233 Pham Ngu Lao street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Transferring to airport for flights to next destinations

Private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby for about 30 minutes to Tan Son Nhat airport (international or domestic hall according to your request). Thanks for the visit to our city.

Note: International flights require you to be at the airport 3 hours and domestic is 2 hours before departure time.

In the rush hour (07:00 – 08:30 AM and 16:30 – 18:30 PM), it takes around 1 hour from city center to Tan Son Nhat airport.

Included:
Meal: B
Private transportation
02 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day