15-Day Vietnam Explorer: Cities, Mountains & Heritage

You arrive at Hanoi airport and transfer to the city centre. It’s the Old Quarter Area. It takes around 30-45 minutes driving-hour.

After checking in and freshening up, start exploring Hanoi with our suggestion:

Suggested schedule:

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
• Tran Quoc Pagoda 
• Temple of Literature
• Ethnology Museum
• Hoa Lo Prison
• Cyclo ride around the Hanoi Old Quarter 
• Water Puppet Show

One day in Hanoi is enough for the city landmarks, or you can choose a half-day city tour and a half-day food tour – on request.

7:45 – 8:15: Free pick up at your hotel in the Old Quarter.
Start visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to explore the architectural and historical aspects of Uncle Ho’s final resting-place.

Just next door is Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts and lying to one side of the Mausoleum is the One Pillar Pagoda, which was founded by King Ly Thai To in 1049 – the structure has become an important symbol for the people of Hanoi.
Then continue on to the Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda at West lake (One of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam).

Lunch served at a local restaurant for a taste of authentic Hanoi cuisine.
In the afternoon, proceed to visit the Ethnology Museum, the Literature Temple and Quoc Tu Giam, see Vietnam’s first university, constructed in 1070 – it’s gardens and well-preserved architecture will offer a relaxing glimpse into Vietnam’s past.
Take you past Hoan Kiem Lake to see the peaceful waters, and the beauty of Ngoc Son temple.
At the end, journey through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where you’ll then have a chance for some shopping and exploration.
Tour ends around 16:30 – 17:00. Drop off at your hotel !

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or bring Breakfast box along with you.
About 6:30 – 6:45: Pick up at hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter or meeting point, get on bus and depart for Sapa Town. We drive on Hanoi – Lao Cai Express way, there are 2 rest stops.

13:30: Arrive at Sapa Town with colorful traditional costumes of H’mong, Dzao, and Tay ethnic people. And wait at the bus station for the tour guide and driver to pick you up to the hotel and have lunch.

14:30: Take a short walk to the gate of Cat Cat village, which is the home of Black H’mong ethnic people. Our local guide will show you the daily life activities of the locals, trek down to the valley bottom to the waterfall where the French built a Hydraulic Power Station; stop for photos with the bridge and waterfall; then you will walk up hill for the bus to pick you up to get back to Sapa in the afternoon. The trekking distance is about 2.5km and it lasts for 2 hours.

17:00: Come back to Sapa Town. Have dinner at local restaurant on your own then overnight at Sapa Town hotel.

08:00 Pick-up from your hotel in Sapa town.
08:30 Transfer to Muong Hoa Funicular or directly to Fansipan Cable Car Station.
09:00 Take a 25-minute Cable car ride to Fansipan Mountain.
09:20 Climb 600 steps or take funicular (3.5 USD/way) to reach Fansipan Peak (3,143m) – The roof of Indochina.
10:30 Explore temples and statues on the way down: Bao An Pagoda, Copper Buddha, Guanyin.

11:30 Return by cable car.
12:00 Lunch near cable car station.
13:30 Visit Silver Waterfall, a short climb leads to stunning views. Climb stairs about 15mins to the point of view, you’ll be impressed by the waterfall like a white dragon diving into the stream and the stunning scenery of the surrounding mountains.
14:30 Continue to Heaven Gate & Tram Ton Pass (2,047m) – the highest mountain pass in Vietnam.

15:30 Drive back to Sapa.
16:30 Drop-off at your hotel.

Stay overnight in Sapa

08:00 – 08:30 Our local guide will meet you at your hotel in Sapa and take you by car to the starting point of the trek.

09:15 Begin your trek along narrow trails through the breathtaking Muong Hoa Valley – home to some of the most stunning rice terraces in Vietnam. As you descend into the valley, you’ll arrive at Lao Chai Village, inhabited by the Black H’mong ethnic group. Here, you’ll witness their daily life, visit local homes, and learn about their unique culture, including traditional indigo dyeing, textile weaving, and handmade crafts.

Continue your scenic walk through rice paddies and along the river to reach Ta Van Village, where the Giay ethnic minority live. The Giay people are known for their stilt houses, friendly hospitality, and rich cultural heritage. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with locals, learn about their customs, and take in the peaceful rural landscape backed by dramatic mountains and lush terraced fields.

Throughout the trek, you’ll enjoy fresh mountain air, panoramic views of Sapa’s iconic landscapes, and insights into the unique traditions of two distinct ethnic communities. This route, about 8 km in total, offers both natural beauty and cultural immersion.

12:00 Have lunch in local restaurant

13:00 After visiting Ta Van, our driver will take you back to Sapa town.
We’ll drop you off at your hotel.

Stay overnight in Sapa

This Morning you are free for exploring Sapa Town then check-out hotel.

About 13:30 – 14:00: Relax and enjoy yourself, and if you want, take a shower in the hotel’s public bathroom.

14:30: Meet the Driver of Limousine Van at the hotel to get ready for Hanoi.

14:45: Get on the Limousine Van to go back to Hanoi with two rest stops.

20:00 – 20:30: Arrive Hanoi, and drop off at your hotel.

07:45 – 8:45 Pick up at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter. Please be ready 10 minutes before your appointment time. (Our bus may arrive late due to the traffic jam, we hope you sympathize for this inconvenience).

09:30 Stopover for refreshment at Thanh Mien, Hai Duong for about 25 minutes.

11:15 Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina, and get checked in at the waiting lounge.

12:00 Embark on cruises, enjoy the welcome drinks while being given a short briefing. Check in to your room and get ready for a tasty lunch.

12:30 Enjoy Vietnamese and international lunch and the picturesque scenery of the bay, pass by the most beautiful areas: Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, Fighting Cock Islet, Three Coconuts Island.

14:30 Continue to explore Halong Bay by visiting Pearl Farm. This is also an ideal place for kayaking, get up and close to the timeless beauty of Ha Long Bay.

16:00 Visit Sung Sot Cave – a magnificent and largest limestone cave as its original name: Grotte des Surprising. The beautiful stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years are the reward after the steep climb on Bo Hon Island. Proper shoes are highly recommended when it’s wet.

17:45 Back to the boat, enjoy the bar’s Happy Hour (buy 02 get 01)

(Option: Massage service available. Please book with the Cruise Manager directly)

19:30 Deluxe dinner is served. Enjoy our traditional and fusion dishes prepared by our talented chefs.

21:00 After dinner it’s your time to enjoy at bar and spa, squid fishing or watch a movie in the cabin, play cards, chess or relax on the sundeck.

23:00 Overnight on board.

06:15 Seeing the bay in the morning is a wonderful experience, awaken all your senses with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck while gathering vitamin sea to refresh yourself before enjoying breakfast.

06:30 Coffee, tea and pastries for breakfast are served in the restaurant.

07:30 Visit Titov Island. Titov is a small limestone island with one of the best sandy beaches in Ha Long Bay. You can immerse yourself in emerald water and hike to the top for stunning panoramic views of the bay or try Kayaking experience.

09:30 Back to the cruise ship. Check out and settle your bill at the reception.

10:00 Have brunch while cruising back. Relax on the sundeck or in the restaurant.

11:30 Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina, it’s time to say best wishes and end your trip with us.

14:30 Back to your drop-off point in Hanoi. Depends on your flight Hanoi – Danang, our driver will meet at your hotel then transfer to the Airport. When you arrive Danang, our driver will transfer to your hotel in Hoi An.Conclude your journey today with a leisurely evening time in Hoi An Town —perfect for shopping, café-hopping, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

Stay overnight in Hoi An Town. 

Breakfast at hotel. Lunch on your own.

About 12:00 – 12:15 Pick-up from your hotel.

13:00 – Cam Thanh Coconut Village Experience
Begin your adventure at Cam Thanh Coconut Village, where you’ll step into the shoes of a Vietnamese fisherman. Learn traditional net-casting techniques and ride a Vietnamese bamboo basket boat through peaceful palm-lined waterways once used during the war. Participate in fun, safe, hands-on activities suitable for all ages, gaining authentic cultural insight into the local lifestyle.

14:30 – Explore Hoi An Ancient Town
Head to the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit its iconic landmarks:

• Phuc Kien Assembly Hall – Marvel at the intricate architecture and learn about ancestor worship and local traditions.

• Tan Ky or Phung Hung Ancient House – Discover the history of Hoi An’s prosperous merchant families.

• Japanese Covered Bridge – Explore this 400-year-old symbol of Hoi An, rich with carvings and cultural significance.

• Hoi An Traditional Performing Arts House – Enjoy a traditional art performance reflecting local folklore.

• Handicraft Shops & Art Galleries – Browse local crafts, silk, and souvenirs while exploring the town’s charming alleys.

17:30 – Dinner
Enjoy a delightful Hoi An specialty dinner at a local restaurant, featuring traditional dishes unique to the region.

18:00 – Hoai River Lantern Boat Ride
Experience the magic of Hoi An at night with a peaceful boat ride on the Hoai River. Light and release your own flower lantern, making a wish for luck and happiness. Soak in the glowing atmosphere of lantern-lit streets and reflections on the water.

18:30 You will be transferred back to your hotel in Hoi An

Stay overnight in Hoi An.

08:00 AM After breakfast, your tour guide meets you at your hotel lobby. Begin the journey to Ba Na Hills, a scenic 45-minute drive.

08:45 AM Arrive at the Ba Na Hills Cable Car Station. Take one of Southeast Asia’s most modern cable car rides, enjoying spectacular views of Da Nang’s coastline and lush mountains.

09:15 AM Visit the iconic Golden Bridge, held by giant stone hands and featured by The Guardian as one of the world’s most breathtaking pedestrian bridges. Explore Le Jardin D’Amour, a romantic complex of 9 themed gardens, and visit Linh Ung Pagoda, known for its peaceful ambiance and large Buddha statue.

10:30 AM Take the second cable car up to the French Village. Enjoy the charming European-style architecture, live street music, and scenic landmarks like the Campanile, Nine Floor Goddess Shrine, Square Du Dome, and Tombstone Temple.

11:30 AM Catch the vibrant Carnival Performance Show, filled with music, dance, and colorful costumes.

12:00 PM Savor a delicious buffet lunch at a local restaurant in the French Village.

03:30 PM – Ride the Lava Train to explore the Sun Kingdom and its latest attractions: Helios Waterfall, Time Gate, and the whimsical Moon Kingdom.

14:30 PM – Head to Fantasy Park, Vietnam’s largest indoor amusement zone. Enjoy over 90 free games and attractions such as:

• Fairy Forest & Dinosaur Park

• 5D Wild West & 4D Death Race

• Freefall Tower, Horror House, Jurassic Park, and more!

16:00 PM – Return via cable car, soaking in the final views of Ba Na Hills.

17:00 PM – Arrive back at your hotel. End of an unforgettable day in the clouds.

Stay overnight in Hoi An. 

7:45 – 8:00: Pick up at your hotel in Hoi An center and depart to My Son Holy Land.

9:00: Arrive at My son sanctuary and start to visit My son.

In My Son Holy Land, the towers and tombs have been dated from the VII century to XIV century, but archaeological findings show us that the Cham kings were buried here since IV century. The total of buildings are more than 70 towers including small, normal and large towers. My Son Sanctuary supposedly is the religion center and culture of the Champa Ancient Kingdom.

11:30: Move to Local House to learn “How to make Rice paper”. You will enjoy your own hand – making products later on.

Have lunch at a local house with local food

In the afternoon, move to Cau Lau boat station and travel up the Thu Bon river by motorized boat to Hoi an

About 14:00: Arrive in Hoi an. Car takes you back to the hotel.

Take a break from the itinerary and enjoy a relaxing day exploring the timeless charm of Hoi An at your own pace. Wander through the lantern-lit streets of the Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history whispers from every yellow-walled house and centuries-old temple.

In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam’s dynamic southern hub.

Check-in hotel and overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

On 8:00, our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in the city center to begin your exploration of Ho Chi Minh City.

Start with a visit to the Independence Palace (Reunification Palace), an iconic landmark built on the site of the former Norodom Palace and designed by renowned architect Ngô Viết Thụ.

Next, admire the elegant architecture of the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, both striking remnants of French colonial influence.

Conclude the morning at the War Remnants Museum, home to powerful exhibits from the Indochina and Vietnam Wars.

After lunch, we head to the Cu Chi Tunnels (1.5-hour drive). Upon arrival, watch a short video about the tunnel’s history, then explore the underground network with your guide—featuring living quarters, kitchens, traps, and command centers.

Enjoy a taste of cassava and tea, the traditional guerrilla meal. Optional: try shooting at the nearby range.

After the tour, return to Ho Chi Minh City and transfer back to your hotel.

Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Breakfast at hotel.

08:30 AM – Depart from your hotel for My Tho, the capital of Tien Giang Province.

10:00 AM – Arrive in My Tho and take a boat ride to Unicorn Island. Discover local riverside life, enjoy seasonal tropical fruits and coconut candies, and listen to traditional folk music performed by local artists.

11:30 AM – Ride a hand-rowed sampan through narrow canals, visit a coconut candy workshop, and take a horse-drawn carriage ride along peaceful village roads.

12:30 PM – Enjoy a traditional Mekong Delta lunch featuring specialties such as Tai Tuong (Elephant Ear Fish), spring rolls, and fresh shrimp.

14:00 PM – Take a short bicycle ride around the village to experience authentic rural life.
15:00 PM – Visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, a beautiful temple blending Vietnamese, Khmer, and Chinese architecture.

16:30 PM – Return to Ho Chi Minh City. Arrive back at your hotel.

Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Enjoy some free time in the morning to relax or shop at your leisure before checking out of the hotel at 12:00. Afterwards, our driver will transfer you to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your departure flight.

This marks the end of your Flavor of Vietnam adventure with Vietnam Wonder Travel. We extend our heartfelt thanks for joining us on this incredible journey to explore the wonders of Vietnam. Farewell, and we hope to welcome you back soon. Should you desire more exploration of our country, consider our Vietnam tours, which offer a wide range of choices to suit your preferences.

• Hotel accommodation in shared twin or shared double room with daily breakfast.
• Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
• Tours and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicles.
• English speaking local guide
• All entrance fees as indicated in itinerary
• Sharing Luxury Van to Sapa
• Cable Car Round Trip to Fansipan Peak
• Boat trips as mentioned in the itinerary
• Cam Thanh Coconut Jungle Boat Trip
• Bana Hills with Cable Car
• Return Shuttle Bus to Halong Bay
• Cruise in Halong Bay
• Kayaking in Halong Bay
• Boat Trip in Mekong Delta
• Cold water and towel during tours

• International or Domestic Air tickets
• Other meal, drink, Tip to guide and driver, personal expenses
• Supplement for French, Spanish, Italian and German speaking guide
• Visa on Arrival to Vietnam

• From 10% Deposit
• Low deposit, flexible payments
• Cancelling Free *

• All hotels are well located in city center. All rooms are clean with friendly staff
• Hotel changes or room upgrades are possible with cost difference if any
• Regular hotel check-in time at 14:00pm and check-out time at 12:00pm

Airfare is optional: guests are welcome to book flights independently or choose our convenient flight service.
When booking with us, airfare includes an Economy Classic ticket with 23kg checked baggage and 7kg carry-on allowance.

Flights plan: 

1. Airfare Hanoi (HAN) – Danang (DAD)
2. Airfare Danang (DAD) – Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)