12-Day Vietnam Adventure: Nature, City, and Relaxation

Day 1: Explore Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Phở Thìn

Start your journey with a warm bowl of the famous Hanoi beef phở to fuel your day.
Walk to Hoàn Kiếm Lake to enjoy the serene views.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hoàn Kiếm Lake

Stroll around this picturesque lake and visit the Ngọc Sơn Temple.
Easy walk of 15 minutes from breakfast.
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Old Quarter

Wander through the bustling and colorful streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, sampling local street food along the way.
15-minute walk from the lake.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Ta

Indulge in some authentic Bún chả, a delicious local dish of grilled pork and noodles.
5-minute walk from the Old Quarter.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Learn about the revolutionary leader and visit his final resting place.
20-minute taxi ride from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening Water Puppet Show

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet performance that narrates folklore stories.
15-minute taxi ride from the mausoleum.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long

Savor Cha Ca, a unique northern dish featuring grilled fish with turmeric and dill.
15-minute walk from the theater.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cultural Insights

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:30AM

Breakfast at Dinh Café

Start the day with a traditional Vietnamese egg coffee, a must-try in Hanoi.
10-minute walk from hotel.
VND 50,000, 45 minutes

9:30AM

Visit the Temple of Literature

Discover Vietnam’s first university and its beautiful traditional architecture.
15-minute taxi ride.
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Gain insight into Vietnam's diverse ethnic groups through artifacts and exhibitions.
15-minute taxi ride.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Nha Hang Ngon

Enjoy dishes from various regions of Vietnam in a charming setting.
15-minute drive from museum.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Hanoi Opera House

Admire the French colonial architecture and catch a rehearsal if you can.
15-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Shopping at Dong Xuan Market

Explore the local market for souvenirs and handicrafts.
15-minute walk from the opera house.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Green Mango

Dine in a contemporary restaurant offering Asian fusion cuisine.
20-minute walk from the market.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Cruising Halong Bay

Halong Bay, Vietnam

7:00AM

Depart to Halong Bay

Travel by bus from Hanoi to Halong Bay to start your breathtaking cruise.
Both private and group shuttles available.
VND 350,000, 3.5 hours

11:30AM

Check-in to Cruise

Settle into your cabin and prepare for a welcoming lunch on board while cruising through stunning limestone karsts.
On the cruise ship.
Included with cruise., 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Sung Sot Cave

Visit one of the largest and most beautiful caves, known for its impressive stalactites.
By tender boat from the cruise.
Included with cruise., 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kayaking in Halong Bay

Experience the beauty of the bay from up close while paddling through its secluded areas.
Kayak rentals provided by the cruise.
Included with cruise., 2 hours

5:30PM

Evening Cooking Class

Learn to make traditional Vietnamese dishes from your cruise chef.
Onboard the ship.
Included with cruise., 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner on Board

Enjoy a seafood feast while overlooking the magnificent sunset over the bay.
Onboard the ship.
Included with cruise., 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Evening Movie Night

Relax on deck with a movie under the stars, a perfect way to wind down after a day of activities.
Onboard the ship.
Free, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Halong Bay Adventures

Halong Bay, Vietnam

6:30AM

Tai Chi on Deck

Join an early morning Tai Chi session for a refreshing start to your day.
Onboard the ship.
Included with cruise., 1 hour

8:00AM

Breakfast on Board

Fuel up with a healthy breakfast while admiring the morning scenery.
Onboard the ship.
Included with cruise., 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Ti Top Island

Hike to the viewpoint for panoramic views and enjoy the sand beach.
By tender boat from the cruise.
Included with cruise., 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-out from Cruise

Check-out process and enjoy brunch before heading back to the mainland.
Back to the mainland.
Included with cruise., 1 hour

1:00PM

Return to Hanoi

Enjoy the scenic drive back to Hanoi with stops for breathtaking views.
By bus back to Hanoi.
VND 350,000, 3.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Hanoi Night Market

Wander through the street market offering local handicrafts and street food.
15-minute walk from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bún Thang

Savor a bowl of Bún Thang, a delicate noodle soup with various toppings.
10-minute walk from the Night Market.
VND 80,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

7:00AM

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

Catch an early flight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.
Private transfer to the airport.
VND 1,200,000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Breakfast at L’Usine

Enjoy a French-inspired breakfast in a unique café setting.
10-minute taxi ride from the airport.
VND 120,000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the War Remnants Museum

Learn about Vietnam's history through powerful exhibits.
15-minute taxi ride from cafe.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pho Hoa

Taste an iconic bowl of pho at one of the best spots in the city.
10-minute walk from the museum.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Reunification Palace

Discover the historical significance of this landmark and its well-preserved interiors.
15-minute walk from lunch.
VND 50,000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica

Admire the stunning architecture of this French-colonial cathedral.
10-minute walk from the palace.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cuc Gach Quan

Experience a unique dining atmosphere serving traditional Vietnamese dishes.
15-minute taxi ride.
VND 250,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Cultural Depths & Local Life

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Apartment

Enjoy a laid-back breakfast in a vibrant, multi-story café filled with unique options.
5-minute walk from hotel.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cholon District & Thien Hau Temple

Explore Ho Chi Minh's Chinatown and visit this ornate temple dedicated to the sea goddess.
20-minute taxi ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Shop for souvenirs, textiles, and local snacks in this bustling market.
15-minute taxi ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hai Sinh

Savor fresh seafood in a local-style setting.
5-minute walk from Ben Thanh Market.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

Take a guided tour through the network of tunnels that played a significant role in history.
1 hour drive from lunch.
VND 230,000, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Nha Hang Ngon

Return to Ho Chi Minh City for a dinner featuring various regional dishes.
1 hour drive back.
VND 200,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Explore the Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta, Vietnam

7:00AM

Drive to Mekong Delta

Set out early for a day trip to explore the lush landscapes of the Mekong Delta.
2-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City.
VND 300,000, 2 hours

9:30AM

Boat Ride on Mekong River

Get on a boat to navigate through the river's winding waterways, observing local life.
Arranged through tour operator.
Included in tour., 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Local Markets

Experience the vibrant floating markets, a quintessential part of Mekong life.
On the boat.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch on a Local Homestay

Enjoy a traditional meal prepared by a local family.
At selected homestay.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit a Coconut Candy Workshop

Learn about the traditional methods of making coconut candy and taste some.
By boat.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Traditional Crafts Village

Explore local craftsmanship at nearby villages producing traditional goods.
By boat.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Local Restaurant

Enjoy delicious river fish dishes before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City.
By bus back.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Charming Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

8:00AM

Fly to Hoi An

Catch a morning flight to Da Nang, followed by a short transfer to Hoi An.
Private transfer from airport.
VND 1,000,000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Check-in to Hotel

Drop off your luggage and get ready to explore Hoi An.
5-minute walk to hotel.
VND 400,000, 30 minutes

10:30AM

Walking Tour of Hoi An Ancient Town

Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage site, admiring the well-preserved buildings and vibrant shops.
Begin at the Japanese Covered Bridge.
VND 120,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Morning Glory

Taste some of Hoi An's most famous dishes in a cozy setting.
5-minute walk from the Ancient Town.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Hoi An Market

Explore the traditional market filled with local produce and handicrafts.
5-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Bike Ride to An Bang Beach

Rent a bike to ride along the beautiful countryside to An Bang Beach for relaxation.
5 minutes on bike.
VND 50,000, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Fisherman

Savor fresh seafood dishes while enjoying views of the river.
15-minute bike ride back.
VND 250,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Discover Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cargo Club

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with views of the river.
5-minute walk from the hotel.
VND 120,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village

Take a short trip to this local farm and learn about organic farming practices.
15-minute bike ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Cooking Class at Tra Que

Participate in a hands-on cooking class and learn to make local dishes.
On the farm.
VND 300,000, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Nha Hang Hoi An

Refuel with a delightful array of local dishes after your cooking class.
5-minute bike ride.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at An Bang Beach

Enjoy a lazy afternoon at the beach soaking in the seaside atmosphere.
10-minute bike ride.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bater Cafe

End the day with delicious local dishes in a friendly atmosphere.
20-minute bike ride back.
VND 180,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Historic Hue

Hue, Vietnam

8:00AM

Travel to Hue

Board a morning bus or train to the historic city of Hue.
2-hour bus ride from Hoi An.
VND 100,000, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Imperial City

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, the former imperial capital of Vietnam.
15-minute taxi ride.
VND 150,000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hanh Restaurant

Indulge in some local specialties like Bánh bèo (water fern cake).
5-minute walk from the imperial city.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Thien Mu Pagoda

Admire the stunning architecture and views of the Perfume River.
40-minute boat ride from lunch.
VND 40,000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Tombs of the Emperors

Visit the ornate tombs belonging to the Nguyen dynasty.
30-minute taxi ride from the pagoda.
VND 100,000, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ancient Hue

Dine in an imperial-style restaurant that serves traditional Huế cuisine.
30-minute taxi ride.
VND 250,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Cultural & Culinary Hue

Hue, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Bánh Mì Shop

Enjoy a Vietnamese baguette filled with various ingredients.
5-minute walk from hotel.
VND 50,000, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Cyclo Tour of Hue

Take a leisurely cyclos ride through the main attractions of Hue.
arranged through hotel.
VND 150,000, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Dong Ba Market

Experience local life at this vibrant market, great for shopping and tasting local foods.
15-minute walk from cyclo drop-off.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Bun Bo Hue

Relish the salty and spicy goodness of this famous noodle soup specific to Hue.
10-minute walk from market.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Cook a Huế Style Dish

Join a cooking class to learn about Huế’s unique culinary traditions.
At a local cooking school.
VND 250,000, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hue Cuisine

Enjoy a variety of Huế dishes served in a quaint restaurant.
15-minute taxi ride.
VND 200,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Return to Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Travel to Da Nang

Take a bus or train to reach the airport in Da Nang for your flight back to Hanoi.
2-hour bus ride.
VND 100,000, 2 hours

10:00AM

Fly to Hanoi

Catch a direct flight back to Hanoi and prepare for your departure.
Airport transfer included.
VND 1,200,000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Last Lunch at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy one last meal of diverse Vietnamese dishes in a relaxed setting.
15-minute taxi ride from airport.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Stroll Around Hoan Kiem Lake

Spend your last moments in Vietnam soaking up the atmosphere at this iconic lake.
20-minute taxi ride.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping for Souvenirs

Pick up some last-minute souvenirs from the Old Quarter for memories of your trip.
15-minute walk from the lake.
Varies, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Viet

Wrap up your trip with a farewell dinner featuring a fusion of traditional and modern cuisine.
15-minute walk from the market.
VND 250,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability