Splendours of Vietnam 12 Day Private Tour from Hanoi to Saigon

A river winding through a dense, green forested landscape with steep cliffs on either side. 1

A red bridge over water with trees and a building in the background. 2

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Features

12d
Mobile voucher
Instant confirmation
Selective hotel pickup
Multiple languages

Overview

Embark on a 12-day journey that reveals Vietnam’s most iconic highlights — from the timeless charm of Hanoi to the karst landscapes and rural serenity of Ninh Binh. Continue your experience on the tranquil waters and limestone formations of Lan Ha Bay before exploring the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and the imperial legacy of Hue. The adventure unfolds further in the vibrant rhythm of Ho Chi Minh City, then slows again along the peaceful waterways of the Mekong Delta. Designed as a smooth, easy-paced itinerary suitable for most travellers, this programme blends cultural discovery, gentle outdoor activities, scenic drives, light boat trips, and authentic local encounters — offering a complete and memorable introduction to Vietnam.

Activity location

Noi Bai International Airport
- Noi Bai, Ha Noi, Vietnam

Meeting/Redemption Point

Noi Bai International Airport
- Noi Bai, Ha Noi, Vietnam

Check availability

Dates

Travellers

Splendours of Vietnam 12 Day Private Tour from Hanoi to Saigon

12d
English

Pickup included

Languages available

Starting time

Price details

€3,365.03 x 1 Adult€3,365.03

Total

What's included, what's not

Leisure: Water puppet, Thung La temple music, Squid fishing, Morning Tai Chi
Kayak: Halong
Cooking class: Nep House (Applicable to guests staying here), Halong (on board)
Bike: Ninh Binh, Ben Tre
Motorbike / Motorbike taxi: Motor
All Fees and Taxes
Flight Tickets: Flight HAN - DAD (Vietnam Airlines - Economy) , Flight HUI - SGN (Vietnam Airlines)
Private Transport
International flight from/to your country
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Tipping and Service charge

Know before you book

Public transport options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialised infant seats are available
Not recommended for travellers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travellers
Not recommended for travellers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
In accordance with EU regulations about consumer rights, activities services are not subject to the right of withdrawal. Supplier cancellation policy will apply.

Activity itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi (Arrival in Hanoi, airport pick-up and transfer to your hotel)

2 stops
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Overnight at Conifer Grand Hotel(Deluxe Room) 42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Noi Bai International Airport

45m
Admission ticket included

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be greeted by our guide and driver at the pickup lobby. You’ll then enjoy a 45-minute drive to the heart of Hanoi, passing over the Red River, where you can catch a glimpse of the city’s unique architecture and its famously bustling traffic.

Old Quarter

5h
Admission ticket included

The rest of the day is free at your leisure. Lunch and dinner are at your own expense. Overnight stay in Hanoi. Note: Hotel check-in time is from 2:00 PM. Early check-in is subject to availability and may incur an additional charge.

Day 2: Hanoi (Explore Hanoi’s iconic landmarks and vibrant Old Quarter)

5 stops
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at Conifer Grand Hotel(Deluxe Room) 42 Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Temple of Literature & National University

1h
Admission ticket included

8:30: Start your day at the Temple of Literature, founded in the 11th century under the Ly dynasty to honour Confucius and educate royal scholars. Stroll through its peaceful courtyards and gardens until you reach Khue Van Cac, the iconic pavilion that symbolises Hanoi. Continue to the UNESCO-recognized stone steles, which record the names of Vietnam’s most outstanding graduates, before exploring Quoc Tu Giam, regarded as the country’s first national university.

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

2h
Admission ticket included

Next, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays), an engaging institution that offers deep insight into the cultures of Vietnam’s many ethnic groups. Its rich collection includes traditional costumes, agricultural tools, musical instruments, and life-size replicas of ethnic minority houses. A full visit typically takes about two hours. For lunch, enjoy one of Hanoi’s most beloved dishes: cha ca, fragrant turmeric-marinated grilled fish served with fresh herbs, rice noodles, and a tangy dipping sauce — a true staple of the capital’s culinary heritage.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

2h
Admission ticket included

In the afternoon, continue with an exterior visit of Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, then enjoy a relaxing walk through the nearby botanical gardens to see the simple House on Stilts, where Ho Chi Minh once lived and worked. Conclude this section of the tour at the unique One-Pillar Pagoda, one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks.

Old Quarter

3h
Admission ticket included

For a delightful gourmet pause, settle onto a small stool inside a traditional tube house and savour a cup of egg coffee - a creamy speciality born during the French colonial era. Made from whipped egg yolk and rich Vietnamese coffee, this iconic drink remains a local favourite. End your day with a stroll through the atmospheric Old Quarter. Originating in the 15th century as a busy trading hub, its famed “36 streets” each once specialised in a particular craft or product. Today, the Old Quarter is a vibrant open-air museum of living history, with narrow alleyways, tube houses, small temples, bustling markets, and irresistible street food creating an unforgettable sensory experience.

Thang Long Water Puppet

50m
Admission ticket included

In the evening, enjoy the water puppet shows that is the unique performances, first appeared in the 11th century. In these shows, the daily life, culture and belief of Vietnamese people are described by puppets on water. The show usually integrates a traditional music performance as well. Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 3: Hanoi - Ninh Binh (Transfer to Ninh Binh, sampan ride in Van Long, traditional music, and an embroidery workshop)

3 stops
Meals: breakfast, lunch, snacks
Accommodation: Overnight at Nep House(Double Room) Lang Noi, Lang Van, Gia Lap, Gia Vien, Ninh Binh , Vietnam

Ninh Binh

8:30: Our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel before we begin a two-hour drive to Ninh Binh. As we travel through the Red River Delta, feel free to make short stops along the way to capture photos of the rural landscapes.

Van Long Nature Reserve

Upon arrival, take a sampan boat trip along the stream and amidst the limestone mountains to uncover the beauty of Van Long Nature Reserve. Recognised as one of the country's largest reserves and designated as a Ramsar Site, it offers a unique experience. If you're fortunate, you might catch sight of white monkeys and egrets perched on the cliffs. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Van Long dike, where open views of emerald rice fields stretch towards dramatic limestone mountains. Along the way, feel free to stop for photos or brief exchanges with local residents, offering a glimpse into daily rural life. The ride ends at Thung La Temple, a sacred site dating back to the 11th century. Visit the temple and attend a traditional folk music performance, an art form deeply connected to the spiritual life of the local Vietnamese community.

Ninh Binh

On the return journey to the homestay, stop at Lang Van Church, one of the most striking modern religious landmarks in Ninh Binh. Built in an impressive Gothic style, the church is distinguished by pointed arches, soaring vaulted ceilings, and a monumental bell tower rising over 100 metres, making it one of the tallest churches in Vietnam. To conclude the day, take part in an embroidery workshop led by a local craftswoman, Mrs. Lam. She shares the techniques and stories behind her traditional craft, then guides you as you practice embroidery on fabric—an authentic hands-on experience rooted in local heritage. Dinner and overnight in Ninh Binh.

Day 4: Ninh Bình (Explore Hoa Lu, enjoy a sampan ride in Tam Coc, visit Bich Dong Pagoda, and join a cooking class)

4 stops
Meals: breakfast, lunch, snacks
Accommodation: Overnight at Nep House(Double Room) Lang Noi, Lang Van, Gia Lap, Gia Vien, Ninh Binh , Vietnam

Hoa Lu District

8:30: Continue exploring Ninh Binh with a visit to Hoa Lu, you will visit the temples dedicated toEmperor Dinh Tien Hoang of the Dinh Dynasty (968-80), and Emperor Le Dai Hanh of the Le Dynasty (980-1009) who played a vital role in gaining the country’s independence after it was ruled by China for a thousand years. Both temples were built in the 17th symbolising a deep respect to the King’s contributions.

Tam Cốc – Bích Động - Ninh Bình, Việt Nam

2h
Admission ticket included

Then, we make our way to Tam Coc, which has been well-known as the “Halong Bay on land” and appeared in famous French film “Indochina”. On arrival at the pier, you will take a private sampan boat for a ninety-minute cruise along Ngo Dong River. Pass through three caves and witness a stunning landscape interleaved by small communities, rice fields, cemetery and temples. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Bich Dong Pagoda

2h
Admission ticket included

In the afternoon, we will visit Bich Dong pagoda, a typical pagoda in the countryside of the Red River Delta, built in the 15th century. On arrival, you will cross a stone bridge to Chua Ha, from which over 100 steps lead to Chua Trung – the cave pagoda with unique clay statues. You will then hike up to Chua Thuong. You not only have the chance to learn about Buddhism but also get to experience incredible countryside views.

Ninh Binh

Return to your hotel and immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture and cuisine with a fun hands-on cooking class hosted by the welcoming team at Nep’s House. Learn how to prepare authentic yet simple Vietnamese dishes with step-by-step guidance from your local host. After cooking, sit down to enjoy the delicious meal you’ve created together. It’s a warm, personal experience that connects you to local life through food. Overnight in Ninh Binh.

Day 5: Ninh Binh - Lan Ha Bay (Transfer to Ha Long, cruise Lan Ha Bay, explore caves, and swim in crystal-clear waters)

5 stops
Meals: breakfast, lunch, snacks
Accommodation: Overnight at Sena Cruise - 2D1N(Deluxe Balcony Cabin) 3b Dang Thai Than street, Hoan Kiem district, Ha Noi City, Vietnam

Halong Bay

8:00: Depart for Halong. The journey takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, with an optional stop for a bathroom break along the way. Upon arrival, you'll be dropped off at Tuan Chau / Bai Chay pier, where you will board your cruise. 11:30 – 12:00: Arrive at Tuan Chau Harbour.

Tuan Chau Island

11:30 – 12:00: Arrive at Tuan Chau Harbour. 12:00 – 12:30: Board a tender to transfer to the main vessel. Welcome aboard Sena Cruise! Enjoy a refreshing welcome drink as our Cruise Manager gives a safety briefing and a short introduction to the cruise programme. Afterwards, check into your cabin and settle in.

Lan Ha Bay

2h
Admission ticket included

13:15 – 13:45: Lunch is served while Sena Cruise begins its journey into the breathtaking Lan Ha Bay—an extension of Ha Long Bay, known for its tranquility and fewer visitors. Along the way, admire iconic formations such as Finger Islet and Candle Islet, as well as countless limestone karsts and islands.

Dark and Bright Cave

2h
Admission ticket included

15:00: Explore the serene Dark and Bright Cave, renowned for its untouched natural beauty and poetic landscape. Take stunning photos of this romantic area or enjoy a relaxing bamboo boat ride. You may also swim in the calm, emerald waters—a perfect way to experience the hidden charm of Lan Ha Bay.

Lan Ha Bay

4h
Admission ticket included

17:00: Return to the cruise. Join a sunset party on the deck—an ideal moment for photographers to capture the golden hour over the bay. Participate in a Vietnamese cooking class and learn how to make traditional spring rolls. Our captain will anchor the boat in a peaceful area for the night. 19:00: Enjoy a delicious dinner in the onboard restaurant. Afterwards, unwind with your choice of activities: Chat at the bar or enjoy a film in the restaurant; Treat yourself to a spa session (*); Sip cocktails at the panoramic bar (*); Try your hand at squid fishing with our prepared rods and lighting. Overnight onboard in Lan Ha Bay. (*) Additional charges apply for some services—please book with the cruise team directly.

Day 6: Lan Ha Bay - Hoi An (Start with Tai Chi, explore Tra Bau, then return to Hanoi and fly to Hoi An)

5 stops
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room) 116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Lan Ha Bay

1h
Admission ticket included

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.

Lang chai Tra Bau

1h
Admission ticket included

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.

Lan Ha Bay

2h
Admission ticket included

10:00: While enjoying a set-menu early light lunch, Sena Cruise gently sails back towards the harbour, passing by a panorama of limestone cliffs. 11:30 – 11:45: Arrive at the harbour, disembark, and farewell to the crew.

Noi Bai International Airport

4h
Admission ticket included

Our driver will meet you at the Cruise Waiting Lounge and transfer you to Hanoi Airport. The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, with an optional bathroom stop along the way. You will be dropped off at Noi Bai Airport for your onward flight.

Danang International Airport

2h
Admission ticket included

Upon your arrival at Da Nang airport, our local driver will greet you and transfer you to your accommodation in Hoi An, a journey of approximately 1 hour. Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 7: Hoi An (Enjoy a basket boat ride, explore Hoi An’s ancient town, and spend the afternoon at your leisure)

4 stops
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at Delicacy Hotel & Spa(Deluxe City View Room) 116 Hung Vuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam , Vietnam

Cam Thanh

8:30: Our guide and driver pick you up from your hotel in Hoi An for a short transfer to Cam Thanh village. Known for its tranquil waterways and centuries-old nipa palm mangroves, Cam Thanh offers a peaceful glimpse into the daily life of Hoi An’s fishing communities. Upon arrival, you board a traditional bamboo basket boat for a gentle ride through the shaded nipa palm canals while trying your hand at local-style crab fishing - a simple yet enjoyable experience close to nature.

Japanese Covered Bridge

1h
Admission ticket included

After the boat trip, we return to Hoi An to explore its key highlights. We begin at the Museum of Antiquities, a compact yet rich collection of Cham artefacts and ceramics that reflects Hoi An’s layered cultural history. From here, we walk to the 17th-century Japanese Covered Bridge, the town’s iconic wooden structure symbolising centuries of cultural exchange.

Quan Thang Ancient House

2h
Admission ticket included

Our visit continues at Quan Thang ancient house, one of the best-preserved merchant residences, admired for its refined woodcarvings. The tour concludes at the lively local market, a colourful riverside hub that offers an authentic glimpse into everyday life and local flavours. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in town.

Hoi An

You have a free afternoon to relax or explore the surroundings at your own pace. Optional activities include joining a local cooking class, cycling through rural villages, or enjoying a peaceful boat trip on the river. Hoi An is also an excellent place to have clothes tailor-made. Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 8: Hoi An - Hue (Travel via Hai Van Pass, visit the Imperial Citadel, Dong Ba Market, and the Cham Museum)

5 stops
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at Hue Serene Palace Hotel(Junior Room) 21/42 Nguyen Cong Tru, Hue, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam

Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture

2h
Admission ticket included

8:30: Pick-up from your hotel, then 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.

My Khe Beach

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.

Hai Van Pass (Pass by)

Make a stop at top of the Hai Van pass to enjoy the breathtaking view of the ocean.

Hue Imperial City (The Citadel)

2h
Admission ticket included

Upon arrival, we begin exploring Hue with Hue Citadel, the only vestige symbol for what was once the imperial city of Vietnam. It is inspired by the fortification of Vauban. The city is composed of three parts: Kinh Thanh (the Capital city), Hoang Thanh (the Imperial city) and Cam Thanh (the Forbidden City). The most beautiful sites in Hue are concentrated in this area including the flag tower, the South gate, the palace of supreme Harmony, the Dynasty temple area and the settlement area.

Dong Ba Market

2h
Admission ticket included

To conclude the day, take a stroll at Dong Ba market. Wandering through its lively aisles, you discover vibrant produce stalls, fragrant spice counters, traditional conical hats, and local snacks freshly prepared on the spot. It’s the perfect place to meet friendly vendors, observe local trading culture, and get a glimpse into daily life in Hue.

Day 9: Hue - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (Visit Hue’s highlights before flying to Ho Chi Minh City.

4 stops
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at Sanouva Hotel(Premium Deluxe Double Room) 177 Ly Tu Trong street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Thien Mu Pagoda

1h
Admission ticket included

We continue exploring Hue with a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the city’s oldest spiritual landmarks, founded in 1601. Its iconic octagonal tower and sweeping views over the Perfume River make it an essential stop for understanding the soul of Hue.

Tomb of Minh Mang

2h
Admission ticket included

Next, you discover the tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, an architectural masterpiece that blends imperial design with serene natural scenery. Planned during his reign (1820–1840) and completed by Emperor Thieu Tri, the complex was built through the collective craftsmanship of thousands of workers and artisans.

Thủy Biều - Hoa Màu

3h
Admission ticket included

You then head to Thuy Bieu village, a peaceful village along the Perfume River, famed for its fragrant pomelo orchards. Here, you may opt for a gentle bicycle ride through leafy lanes, stopping at ancestral temples, traditional garden houses over a century old, and small vegetable plots tended by local farmers. The experience continues at Mrs. Loan’s charming garden house, where you join a hands-on cooking class to learn several Hue specialities, from delicate vegetable carving to Nem, fig salad, and savoury stuffed pancakes. Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring the dishes you’ve prepared.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport

3h
Admission ticket included

After the meal, transfer to Hue Airport for a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, our local driver will greet you at the pickup area and transfer you to your hotel in the city.

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (Discover Ho Chi Minh City’s landmarks and local markets)

9 stops
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at Sanouva Hotel(Premium Deluxe Double Room) 177 Ly Tu Trong street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The Independence Palace

1h
Admission ticket included

8:30: We’ll start exploring Ho Chi Minh City with a visit to 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.

Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral

Built between 1863 and 1880, it is a superb emblem of French colonial influence, as well as a highly photogenic spot in the city.

Central Post Office

Located right next door, this magnificent building was designed by Gustave Eiffel's workshop. You will step inside to admire its splendid iron frame and historical maps on the wall.

Saigon Opera House (Ho Chi Minh Municipal Theater)

1h
Admission ticket included

An elegant building inspired by the architecture of the Opéra Garnier in Paris, now a major cultural hub of the city.

city hall

Located at the end of Nguyen Hue pedestrian street, this spectacular monument evokes the architecture of Paris City Hall with its illuminated sculpted facade.

Ben Thanh Market

Next, visit the Ben Thanh Market, the most famous and bustling market in the centre of Saigon, where you can shop for souvenirs or local goods. Lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, you will head towards the western part of the city for a rich cultural immersion:

Fito Museum - Museums of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine & Pharmacy

1h
Admission ticket included

A fascinating visit to a beautiful traditional wooden house. This unique museum preserves thousands of artefacts, ancient books, and tools used for preparing ancestral remedies.

Ba Thien Hau Temple

1h
Admission ticket included

Located in the heart of Cholon, this temple dedicated to the protective goddess of sailors impresses with its huge incense spirals hanging from the ceiling and rich ceramic sculptures.

Binh Tay Market

1h
Admission ticket included

Terminate the afternoon at the largest market of Binh Tay (Cholon). Known for its Chinese-influenced architecture and central clock tower, it is a bustling wholesale hub where you can find everything from spices to fabrics. Transfer back to your hotel. The rest of the evening is free at your leisure. Dinner at your own expense. Overnight stay in Saigon.

Day 11: HCM City - Ben Tre - HCM City (Explore the Mekong Delta, cruise Ben Tre, and meet locals.)

2 stops
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at Sanouva Hotel(Premium Deluxe Double Room) 177 Ly Tu Trong street, district 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ben Tre

8:00: Tour guide and driver welcome you at your hotel for your transfer to Ben Tre, a beautiful region in the Mekong Delta River, famous for making coconut sweets. Arrive at Hung Vuong pier, take a boat trip on Ben Tre River to discover the daily local life. Continue your boat trip on a canal to Nhon Thanh Village. This will be an opportunity to taste the fresh fruits. Take a bike ride (or Tuk tuk) on a small path through the villages and enjoy views of the coconut ranges, rice fields and vegetable gardens. A lunch of elephant ear fish is served in the village. A short walk will help you to discover the local life in depth. This is followed by a boat ride on the small canal shaded by the wild palm trees.

Ho Chi Minh City

Transfer back to Saigon in the late afternoon. Dinner is on your own expense (not included). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (Transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your departure flight)

1 stop
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Not included

Tan Son Nhat International Airport

2h
Admission ticket included

Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City and take you to Tan Son Nhat Airport. Note: Hotel check-out time is before 12:00 PM. Late check-out is subject to availability and may incur an additional charge.

Location

Activity location

Noi Bai International Airport
- Noi Bai, Ha Noi, Vietnam

Meeting/Redemption Point

Noi Bai International Airport
- Noi Bai, Ha Noi, Vietnam

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