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12-Day Ultimate Vietnam Adventure
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12-Day Ultimate Vietnam Adventure
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Day 1: Explore the Capital
Hanoi, Vietnam
8:00AM
Breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen
Start your journey with a steaming bowl of Hanoi's famous beef pho at this popular local eatery.
Walk to the Old Quarter.
VND 50,000, 1 hour
9:30AM
Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
Stroll around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the serene Ngoc Son Temple located on an island in the lake.
15-minute walk from your breakfast spot.
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours
11:00AM
Vietnamese History Museum
Dive into Vietnam's rich history through captivating exhibits ranging from prehistoric times to modern days.
Take a taxi (10 minutes).
VND 40,000, 1.5 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at Bun Cha Ta
Savour the authentic taste of Bun Cha, a specialty from Hanoi, in this cosy restaurant.
10-minute walk from the museum.
VND 80,000, 1 hour
2:30PM
Temple of Literature
Explore Vietnam's first university, a serene space filled with beautiful architecture and lush gardens.
Taxi ride (10 minutes).
VND 30,000, 1 hour
4:00PM
Water Puppet Theatre
Experience the unique storytelling tradition of Vietnamese water puppetry in a charming theatre.
15-minute taxi ride.
VND 100,000, 1 hour
6:00PM
Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong
Indulge in the delicious grilled fish served with noodles and herbs, a local specialty.
15-minute taxi ride.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
Hanoi, Vietnam
8:00AM
Breakfast at Giang Cafe
Enjoy a rich Vietnamese egg coffee at this café, a true local experience to kickstart your day.
10-minute walk.
VND 40,000, 1 hour
9:30AM
Explore the Old Quarter
Wander through the bustling streets filled with shops, street food stalls, and vibrant local culture.
Walking tour through the area.
Free, 2 hours
12:00PM
Lunch at Koto
Dine at this social enterprise restaurant offering delicious Vietnamese cuisine while supporting youth training.
5-minute walk.
VND 100,000, 1 hour
1:30PM
Lotte Observation Deck
Get a panoramic view of the city from one of the highest buildings in Hanoi.
Taxi ride (15 minutes).
VND 200,000, 1 hour
3:00PM
Museum of Ethnology
Discover Vietnam's diverse ethnic cultures through fascinating exhibits and outdoor installations.
Taxi ride (15 minutes).
VND 40,000, 2 hours
5:30PM
Dinner at Seasoned Pioneers
Experience innovative Asian cuisine with a twist in a trendy setting, perfect to end your day.
Taxi ride (20 minutes).
VND 350,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi
Day 3: Cruise the Bay
Halong Bay, Vietnam
7:30AM
Breakfast at Hotel
Fuel up on a hearty breakfast before embarking on your day trip to Halong Bay.
Included in hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour
8:30AM
Travel to Halong Bay
Enjoy a scenic drive to Halong Bay, renowned for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands.
Private car transport (approximately 2.5 hours).
USD 30, 2.5 hours
11:00AM
Halong Bay Cruise
Board a junk boat for a thrilling cruise among the stunning limestone karsts while enjoying a seafood lunch.
Onboard the boat.
USD 50 (including lunch), 4 hours
3:00PM
Cave Exploration
Visit one of the famous caves, such as Sung Sot (Surprise Cave), and admire its remarkable formations.
Onboard the boat.
Included in cruise., 1 hour
5:00PM
Return to Hotel
Enjoy the beautiful scenery on your return journey back to Halong city.
Private car transport (approximately 2.5 hours).
Included in cruise package., 2.5 hours
7:30PM
Dinner at Lan Ha Restaurant
Savour delectable Vietnamese dishes and fresh seafood at this highly rated local restaurant.
Walking distance from your hotel.
VND 250,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Halong Bay
Day 4: Relax and Explore
Halong Bay, Vietnam
8:00AM
Breakfast at Hotel
Recharge with a generous breakfast at your hotel before another exciting day.
Included in hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour
9:30AM
Island Visit
Take a kayak or boat trip to explore some of quiet islands and discover local flora and fauna.
Organised by tour operator.
USD 20, 3 hours
1:00PM
Lunch aboard the Boat
Enjoy a delightful lunch on the boat while appreciating the stunning bay views.
Onboard boat.
Included in kayak tour., 1 hour
2:30PM
Swimming or Relaxing
Unwind by swimming in the bay or lounging on deck to soak up the sun.
Onboard boat.
Free, 2 hours
4:30PM
Return to Halong City
Head back to the port, enjoying the last views of Halong Bay as you return.
Boat to port.
Included in kayak tour., 1 hour
6:00PM
Dinner at The Café
Relish local Vietnamese dishes alongside a perfect view of the bay during dinner.
Short drive from hotel.
VND 180,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Halong Bay
Day 5: Natural Wonders
Ninh Binh, Vietnam
7:30AM
Breakfast at Hotel
Enjoy breakfast before departing for Ninh Binh, famous for its limestone landscapes and rice paddies.
Included in hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour
9:00AM
Travel to Ninh Binh
Set off for Ninh Binh, where beautiful natural scenery awaits.
Private car transport (1.5 hours).
USD 25, 1.5 hours
10:30AM
Visit Tam Coc
Enjoy a tranquil boat ride through the stunning rice paddies and limestone caves of Tam Coc.
Arranged boat service.
VND 150,000, 2 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at May Restaurant
Savour delicious traditional Vietnamese dishes in this cozy and picturesque eatery.
Walking distance from the boat dock.
VND 100,000, 1 hour
2:30PM
Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Visit the historic temples and learn about Vietnam's rich history at the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.
Private car transport (30 minutes).
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours
5:00PM
Dinner at a Local Eatery
Enjoy authentic local cuisine at a farm-to-table joint known for its fresh ingredients.
Taxi ride (15 minutes).
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ninh Binh
Day 6: Coastal Charm
Hoi An, Vietnam
8:00AM
Breakfast at Hotel
Indulge in a delightful breakfast before heading to your next destination, Hoi An.
Included in hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour
9:30AM
Travel to Hoi An
Fly to Danang and take a transfer to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Domestic flight (1 hour), followed by a car transfer (30 minutes).
USD 50, 1.5 hours
11:30AM
Check-in at Hotel
Settle into your hotel and relax before exploring the charming old town.
Walking distance from the town.
Varies by hotel., 1 hour
1:00PM
Lunch at Street Food Market
Sample a wide variety of local street foods, from banh mi to Cao Lau noodles.
Walking distance from hotel.
VND 100,000, 1.5 hours
3:00PM
Explore Hoi An Ancient Town
Wander the lantern-lit streets and visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge.
Walking tour of Ancient Town.
Free (but may have small entrance fees for some sites)., 2.5 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at Morning Glory
Enjoy a delightful dinner featuring traditional Hoi An cuisine in an elegant setting.
Walking distance from Ancient Town.
VND 300,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hoi An
Day 7: Cultural Exploration
Hoi An, Vietnam
8:00AM
Breakfast at Hotel
Start your day with a lovely breakfast at your hotel.
Included in hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village
Experience local farming practices and participate in an interactive cooking class.
Bicycle rental (30 minutes).
USD 30 (includes cooking class)., 3.5 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at the Cooking Class
Enjoy the meal you prepared during the cooking class.
On-site.
Included in class cost., 1 hour
2:30PM
Relax at An Bang Beach
Unwind at this beautiful beach, where you can sunbathe or swim in the gentle waves.
Taxi ride (15 minutes).
Free, 3 hours
5:30PM
Dinner at The Red Bridge
Savour fresh seafood and local dishes while overlooking the river at this popular restaurant.
Taxi ride (15 minutes).
VND 250,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hoi An
Day 8: Historical Significance
Hue, Vietnam
8:00AM
Breakfast at Hotel
Enjoy a nourishing breakfast before departing for Hue, the former imperial capital.
Included in hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour
9:30AM
Travel to Hue
Approximately a three-hour drive through stunning landscape scenery.
Private car transport.
USD 30, 3 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at Ancient Hue
Savour a selection of authentic royal cuisine that once graced the imperial court.
Walking distance from the hotel.
VND 300,000, 1.5 hours
3:00PM
Explore the Imperial City
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn about Vietnam's imperial history.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
VND 150,000, 2 hours
5:30PM
Dinner at La Residence
Dine in a quaint setting with French-inspired decor, offering an exquisite culinary experience.
Taxi ride (10 minutes).
USD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hue
Day 9: Vibrant City Life
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
8:00AM
Breakfast at Hotel
Start your day with a delicious breakfast before heading to Ho Chi Minh City.
Included in hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour
9:30AM
Travel to Ho Chi Minh City
Fly to Ho Chi Minh City; be amazed by its bustling atmosphere and rich history.
Short domestic flight.
USD 50, 1 hour
11:00AM
Check-in at Hotel
Settle into your accommodation and freshen up for a day of exploration.
Walking distance from attractions.
Varies by hotel., 1 hour
1:00PM
Lunch at Pho 2000
Savor a bowl of Pho in this restaurant, famously known as President Bill Clinton's lunch spot.
Walking distance from the hotel.
VND 90,000, 1 hour
2:30PM
War Remnants Museum
A poignant museum that provides insightful perspectives on the Vietnam War.
Taxi ride (10 minutes).
VND 40,000, 2 hours
5:00PM
Dinner at Secret Garden
Dine in a hidden rooftop restaurant overlooking the city, serving traditional Vietnamese dishes.
Taxi ride (10 minutes).
VND 300,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
Day 10: Discover the City
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
8:00AM
Breakfast at Hotel
Fuel up for your day of exploration in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.
Included in hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit Ben Thanh Market
Explore this bustling market, famous for handicrafts, street food, and vibrant atmosphere.
Walking distance from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours
12:00PM
Lunch at Quan An Ngon
Enjoy a variety of Vietnamese street food in a beautiful setting with a large selection.
Walking distance from the market.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours
2:00PM
Explore Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office
Admire the stunning architecture of these iconic landmarks, showcasing French colonial designs.
Walking distance from lunch location.
Free, 1.5 hours
4:00PM
Visit the Reunification Palace
Step back in time as you explore the historic site, symbolising the end of the Vietnam War.
Taxi ride (10 minutes).
VND 40,000, 1.5 hours
6:30PM
Dinner at Cuc Gach Quan
Experience a fusion of traditional Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist in an inviting ambience.
Taxi ride (15 minutes).
VND 300,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
Day 11: Rural Beauty
Mekong Delta, Vietnam
7:00AM
Breakfast at Hotel
Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast before embarking on your Mekong Delta adventure.
Included in hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour
8:30AM
Travel to Mekong Delta
Head to the Mekong Delta by private vehicle, soak in the vibrant rural life.
Private car transport (2 hours).
USD 40, 2 hours
10:30AM
Boat Trip on the Mekong
Experience the unique waterways and visit floating markets, enjoying local delicacies along the way.
Onboard a local boat.
USD 15, 3.5 hours
2:00PM
Lunch at Local Homestay
Dine on home-cooked traditional food, offering an insight into local culinary culture.
At the homestay.
Included in tour., 1 hour
3:30PM
Visit Local Workshops
Interact with locals and see the production of crafts and specialties of the region.
On-site.
Free, 2 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at a Local Eatery
Enjoy a casual dinner at a family-owned restaurant, sampling regional dishes.
Taxi or organised transport.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mekong Delta
Day 12: Final Traffic Whirl
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
8:00AM
Breakfast at Hotel
Indulge in your final breakfast, taking a moment to relish all the memories made.
Included in hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica
Explore this iconic landmark that represents the vibrant history of Ho Chi Minh City.
Walking distance from hotel.
Free, 1 hour
11:00AM
Shopping at Ben Thanh Market
Pick up souvenirs and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere one last time.
Walking distance from the cathedral.
Free, 2 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at Ngoc Suong
Delight in a wide selection of seafood in a beautiful riverside setting.
Taxi ride (10 minutes).
VND 350,000, 1.5 hours
3:00PM
Relax at the Hotel
Take some time to unwind before your journey home or travel onward.
Walking distance from lunch spot.
Free, 2 hours
5:30PM
Farewell Dinner at Cuc Gach Quan
Enjoy your final meal in Vietnam, reminiscing over the incredible experiences of your journey.
Taxi ride (15 minutes).
VND 300,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
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Itinerary created by
Plantrip Team
January 26, 2025
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