Vietnam From Ancient Roots to Island Bliss

From $/pax Vietnam From Ancient Roots to Island Bliss
Attraction:

Ha Noi - Ha Long - Hue - Hoi An - Saigon - Can Tho - Phu Quoc - Da Nang

Whether you wish to blend moments of relaxation with rich culture and history during your honeymoon, Vietnam stands out as a truly remarkable destination. This carefully crafted journey combines natural beauty and cultural heritage, taking you through the country’s most iconic attractions from north to south. Begin in the elegant capital of Hanoi, then set sail on a cruise across the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic limestone landscapes.

Duration: 14 days 13 nights

Country: 233

Code: VCT12

Theme:

Vietnam Timeless Highlights

Overview 

This 14-day journey takes you on a cultural and scenic adventure across Vietnam, from historic cities to tropical island escapes. The tour begins in Hanoi, the capital known for its shimmering lakes, tree-lined boulevards, and rich heritage shaped over more than 4,000 years. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay, where thousands of limestone islands rise dramatically from emerald waters.

Travel onward to Hue to explore its ancient citadel, royal tombs, and pagodas, and savor the refined cuisine of the former imperial capital. In central Vietnam, enjoy the excitement of Ba Na Hills with its record-breaking cable car and iconic Golden Bridge, before discovering the charm of Hoi An through cultural activities and countryside experiences.

The journey then leads south to vibrant Ho Chi Minh City and the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta, offering insight into daily life along the river. Finally, unwind on the white-sand beaches of Phu Quoc Island, where free time and island tranquility bring the journey to a relaxing close. Blending heritage, nature, local experiences, and beach leisure, this itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking both discovery and relaxation in one unforgettable trip.

Highlights

  • Explore Hanoi, Vietnam’s historic capital, with its lakes, leafy boulevards, and centuries-old heritage
  • Cruise through Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for limestone karsts rising from emerald waters
  • Discover the Imperial City of Hue, royal tombs, and refined central Vietnamese cuisine
  • Experience thrilling attractions at Ba Na Hills, including the iconic Golden Bridge
  • Wander Hoi An Ancient Town and cycle through peaceful countryside landscapes
  • Enjoy a hands-on lantern making class and eco-friendly village experiences
  • Discover the dynamic life of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s modern metropolis
  • Explore the Mekong Delta, with floating markets and riverside communities
  • Relax on the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam’s tropical paradise

Itinerary in brief

Day 1: Hanoi arrival

Day 2: Hanoi city tour (B)

Day 3: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay cruise (B, L, D)

Day 4: Ha Long Bay – Hanoi – Flight to Hue (B, L)

Day 5: Hue Imperial City (B)

Day 6: Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An – Lantern making class (B)

Day 7: Cam Thanh eco bicycle tour – Free at leisure (B, L)

Day 8: Hoi An – Ba Na Hills – Golden Bridge (B, L)

Day 9: Da Nang – Flight to Saigon – Half-day city tour (B)

Day 10: Saigon – Ben Tre – Can Tho (B, L)

Day 11: Can Tho – Rach Gia – Speedboat to Phu Quoc (B, L)

Day 12: Phu Quoc – Free at leisure (B)

Day 13: Phu Quoc – Free at leisure (B)

Day 14: Phu Quoc – Flight to Saigon & departure (B)

Itinerary

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Warmly welcome you on arrival at Noi Bai international airport. We transfer you with a comfortable vehicle to the city center of Hanoi to check-in your hotel. This day is scheduled to take some rest after your long flight. You have the opportunity to get some first impressions of the city by yourself and of course our tour guide is always available at your request. Overnight at the hotel in Hanoi 

After breakfast, our guide will pick you up and show you around Hanoi, Vietnam’s gracious capital. We enjoy a full day city tour starting with the Ho Chi Minh Complex, home to his mausoleum, garden, house on stilts and a museum which traces his life and work.

Our first stop is to visit the mausoleum of the nation’s founder Ho Chi MinhLocated in the center of Ba Dinh Square, this is the most important monument of Vietnam in which Ho Chi Minh’s body is preserved. This site only opens on Tuesday to Thursday and weekends from 08:00 – 11:00.

The next destination is the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh’s house on stiltsThe Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house was completed on May 19th, 1958 as a birthday present for uncle Ho and becomes a symbol of his simple life.

Close to this complex is the One Pillar PagodaThe pagoda looks like a lotus blossoming from the square pond. It was constructed in 1049 by King Ly Thai Tong based on his dream of Goddess of Mercy seating on a lotus flower and giving him a boy. In 1954, it was destroyed by the French and then restored in 1955.

We follow this with the Temple of Literature, which is well known as the first university of Vietnam. This temple provides an opportunity to learn more about education in Vietnam since 1000 years ago until recent history.

In the afternoon, visit the impressive Ethnologic Museum that is dedicated to Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. This museum has both indoor and outdoor exhibition area with the most popular architectural styles of house’s ethnic people. The museum closes on every Monday.

Breakfast is served at the hotel before departing on a scenic 3-hour drive through the fertile farmlands of the Red River Delta to Ha Long City.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most spectacular natural attractions. Located nearly 200 km from Hanoi, the bay is dotted with over 1,600 limestone islands rising dramatically from emerald waters.

Upon arrival in Ha Long, board a luxury wooden sailing junk for a cruise through the limestone cliffs and tranquil waters of the bay. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch featuring fresh local seafood on board, followed by time for swimming and exploring fascinating limestone caves. As the sun sets, the junk drops anchor near a remote island. Dinner is served on board. Overnight on the junk.

Rising to the tranquil beauty of the bay we have time for an early morning dip with joys and emotions for watching sunrise on sea followed by breakfast. This morning we continue to move around the bay to find more secluded areas. The junk will be near us at all times serving as a back-up vessel for those that require it. At around midday we will return to the main harbor before transferring to our awaiting vehicle for a 3-hour journey to Noi Bai airport for flight to Hue.

Hue was the capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty. Not only is it famous for the splendid architecture of citadels, palaces, royal tombs and pagodas but the ancient traditions of Hue also create a unique romantic city.

Upon arrival Hue, pick up & transfer to hotel in Hue. Overnight at the hotel in Hue

We then set out for the exploration of Hue's famous highlights, including a boat trip to visit the picturesque Thien Mu, or Heavenly Lady Pagoda

Built in 1601, it is one of the best know religious and must-see sites in Hue. Both landscape and monuments here are always in harmony and bring a feeling of peace for travelers. 

Disembark the board for a visit the elaborate mausoleum of former emperor Tu Duc.
Stretching along the Perfume River, Tu Duc mausoleum is considered to be the most picturesque site of Hue. The tomb was designed by the Emperor Tu Duc himself and this is the largest architectural work of Nguyen Dynasty’s royal palaces and tombs.

Transfer back to Hue center Hue for lunch at local restaurant.

In the afternoon we continue to visit the Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City
Built in the 19th century by Nguyen dynasty, the Citadel becomes the most important historical and cultural monument in Vietnam. It is a square 2 km wall encompassing 3 walled enclosures: the Citadel, the Yellow Imperial city, and the Forbidden Purple city.

If time permits, we continue to do the walking and shopping in Dong Ba Market to enjoy the specialty of Hue city. Overnight at the hotel in Hue

After having breakfast, we continue our south journey by road to Hoian

The ancient town of Hoian is a small town in Central Vietnam. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Hoian was a busy international commercial port for foreign merchants. Today, Hoian is popular for its peaceful beauty, eclectic architecture, tailors and cafes.
The scenery en route is very beautiful. We make a stop at Lang Co beach for coffee and refreshments before winding our way up the spectacular Hai Van Pass to admire the stunning views north to Lang Co beach and south to Danang City. Continue on our way down to the other side and head to Da Nang where we will stop at the Cham Museum, the famed China Beach, and the Marble Mountains. We will visit Hoi An town with ancient merchants' houses, a Phuc Kien temple, the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, and the colorful riverside marketsworkshops where artisans make Hoi An's famous lanterns. Guests learn how the lanterns are made then have a chance to create their own lanterns, from designing the frame to gluing the cloth. most delightful places. Overnight at hotel in Hoian


  • Distance: ~10 km
  • Transport: Bicycle
  • Key activities:
    Cycling through the countryside, basket boat ride, traditional fishing experience,
    herbal foot bath, cooking and lunch with a local family

In the morning, enjoy a relaxing cycling journey along quiet village roads, passing rice
fields and local neighborhoods on the way to Cam Thanh fishing village
and the famous Bay Mau water coconut forest. This peaceful mangrove area
offers a glimpse into the region’s river-based lifestyle and natural ecosystem.

Upon arrival, take part in a basket boat ride guided by local fishermen
and learn traditional fishing techniques unique to the area. Afterward, unwind with a
herbal foot soak, followed by a hands-on
cooking experience and a home-style lunch featuring local specialties.

After lunch, enjoy a short rest before returning to your hotel.
The afternoon is free for you to explore Hoi An at your own pace.

Overnight at the hotel in Hoi An.

Have breakfast at hotel. Our guide and driver pick you up and transfer to Da Nang and to Ba Na Hill 

Located 40 km far from Da Nang city, Ba Na Hills has the climate with 4 seasons in a day, unspoiled forest and the spectacular view over Da Nang city. With a combination of villas, restaurants and game complex, it become an excellent destination for family holidays with kids.

To reach the summit, you will take a cable car from the foot with spectacular sceneries of forest, trees, and waterfall underground when you are on cable. On arrival you will visit Old French Villas at the height of 1138 meters for experience architecture here. You will take mountain climbing train to visit Flower Garden where has many kinds of beautiful flowers. After that you continue to visit old tree, stream, Great Buddha Statue, Suspension Bridge, Wine Tunnel where are storing different wines. Especially check-in the Golden Bridge – the most famous & unique architecture of Sun World's Ba Na Hills. Have lunch at restaurant. In the afternoon you spend more time for sightseeing at the hill and then free to relax and play games at Fantasy Theme Amusement with Movie 3D…(Fee paid by yourself). After that you will take cable car back the foot and the driver picks up and transfers you to Da Nang city. Free to have your own dinner. Overnight at hotel in Da Nang

In the early morning, transfer to Danang Airport for a flight to Saigon. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you are met and transferred to your hotel for check-in and a short rest. In the afternoon, enjoy a half-day city tour to visit the most famous landmarks of this bustling city. The first stop is the Reunification Palace.

Reunification Palace is a unique construction that once served as the residence and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Visitors can admire not only its architectural beauty but also the peaceful atmosphere created by the surrounding gardens.

Continue to explore French colonial landmarks including the Old Saigon Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral.

Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic monuments influenced by European architecture. Its red brick exterior, stained-glass windows, and decorative tiles make it a favorite photo spot for visitors.

After visiting the Jade Emperor Pagoda, we proceed to the lively Ben Thanh Market, well known for authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The market features numerous food stalls offering freshly prepared local dishes, as well as a wide range of handicrafts, souvenirs, and daily goods.

Overnight at the hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Drive to Mekong Delta, we take a riverboat for a cruise along the riverbank of the Mekong Delta.

The Mekong Delta is the region in southern Vietnam where the Mekong River approaches and empties into the sea. It is a very rich and lush area, covered with rice fields, that produces about half of the total of Vietnam’s agricultural output.

Landing on the Tortoise Island to visit fruit garden, enjoy some of tropical fruits. Take a horse cart to visit from garden to garden in a small village. Rowing boat cruise along wonderful canals to visit orchards and the houses of local people. Visit a coconut candy workshop in Ben Tre.  Then takes a boat cruise to small waterway and come to have lunch at a local restaurant. Boat cruise again to a small riverside village and join in a home stay in the garden to learn Vietnamese culture of the Mekong Delta. Take some catch fishing tools, the farmers will show you how to catch fishes and shrimps in the canals and learn to cook local cakes and foods. Then continue riding to Can Tho city. Overnight in Can Tho.

Can Tho, situated in the heart of the Mekong delta, is well-known for Ninh Kieu wharf and Bang Lang garden. With plenty of restaurants, floating markets and friendly people, this riverside province never fails to capture the traveler’s heart.

Rising early to the sounds of the Mekong Delta coming to life, we enjoy breakfast before starting our journey with a boat cruise along the sparkling waterways of the mighty Mekong River to the famous Cai Rang Floating Market.

One of the most enjoyable experiences in the Mekong Delta is visiting Cai Rang Floating Market, where boats are loaded with fresh fruits and local specialties. You may also see garden tools for sale or enjoy a traditional Vietnamese breakfast such as rice noodles (pho) right on the river.

In the afternoon, continue traveling to Rach Gia and take a speedboat to Phu Quoc Island. Upon arrival, our private car (no guide) will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

Overnight in Phu Quoc Island.

Your time would be on your own at beach or you might consider taking a short excursion to explore Phu Quoc, savoring the best seafood, fishing or diving and snorkeling to explore the beautiful undersea world (excluded). The coral is pristine, and the scattering of small islands at the bottom of Phu Quoc is home to a rich variety of marine bio-diversity.

Today is free at leisure to relax on the beach or explore Phu Quoc Island at your own pace. You may choose to join optional short excursions such as island hopping, fishing, diving, or snorkeling to discover the island’s vibrant marine life (optional activities, not included).

Enjoy fresh local seafood and admire the pristine coral reefs surrounding Phu Quoc. The scattered small islands offshore are home to a rich and diverse marine ecosystem, offering excellent opportunities for underwater exploration.

After breakfast, enjoy free time in Saigon until transfer to the airport (without guide) for your international flight home.

End of Vietnam Travel Lotus services. We recommend scheduling your departure flight in the late afternoon for smoother connections.

Trip includes:

  • All accommodation services at the hotels mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Round-trip airport pick-up and drop-off on arrival and departure dates.
  • Private French-speaking guide during all guided tours.
  • Private transportation and transfers throughout the journey.
  • Cruise on the bay aboard a cruise ship (if applicable).
  • Meals as specified in the program featuring Vietnamese cuisine (B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner).
  • Entrance fees for all sightseeing sites as stated in the itinerary.
  • Government taxes and service charges.

Trip excludes:

  • Vietnam visa fees.
  • International and domestic airfare.
  • Early check-in and late check-out.
  • Beverages and meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Surcharges during Vietnamese Lunar New Year, Christmas Eve, and New Year’s Eve.
  • Personal travel insurance (mandatory).
  • Tips for the guide and driver.
  • Any other services not specified.

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