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Picturesque Vietnam
Picturesque Vietnam
Experience the best of Vietnam in 16 days with a captivating tour spanning Hanoi's cultural riches, the serene landscapes of Ninh Binh, the vibrant Bac Ha market, the breathtaking vistas of Sapa, the mystical allure of Halong Bay, the historic charm of Hoi An, the ancient ruins of My Son, the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City, and the tranquil beauty of the Mekong Delta. Immerse yourself in diverse cultures, savor authentic cuisine, explore ancient sites, and revel in the natural splendor of Vietnam. This comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of this enchanting country, offering travelers a truly immersive and enriching experience.
Overview
Day 1: Welcome to Hanoi - Overnight in Hanoi
Day 2: Highlights of Hanoi - Overnight in Hanoi
Day 3: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Overnight in Ninh Binh
Day 4: Ninh Binh - Hanoi - Overnight in Hanoi
Day 5: Hanoi - Bac Ha - Overnight in Bac Ha
Day 6: Bac Ha Market - Sapa - Overnight in Sapa
Day 7: Sapa - Hanoi - Overnight in Hanoi
Day 8: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Overnight in Halong Bay (on boat)
Day 9: Halong Bay - Fly to Hoi An - Overnight in Hoi An
Day 10: Highlights of Hoi An - Overnight in Hoi An
Day 11: My Son Hollyland - Overnight in Hoi An
Day 12: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) - Overnight in HCMC
Day 13: City Tour of HCMC & Cu Chi Tunnels - Overnight in HCMC
Day 14: HCMC - Mekong Delta - Overnight in Can Tho
Day 15: Mekong Delta - HCMC - Overnight in HCMC
Day 16: Depart HCMC - Goodbye Vietnam!
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Detailed Itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN HANOI
Welcome to Vietnam! Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, a private driver will pick you up and take you to your hotel in the center of Hanoi. After checking in, you can relax and get familiar with the city. Take a stroll around the neighborhood or enjoy the hotel's facilities. In the evening, explore Hanoi's culinary scene, walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, or simply unwind at the hotel. Get a good night's rest to prepare for your adventures the next day.
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Meals
DAY 2: HIGHLIGHTS OF HANOI
After breakfast, you will start your day by visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Uncle Ho's house on stilts to learn about the life and legacy of Vietnam's beloved leader. Next, you will visit the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique temple built on a single stone pillar, and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university.
After a quick lunch break, you will head to the Hoa Lo Prison, known as the "Hanoi Hilton" during the Vietnam War, to gain insight into the country's history of struggle and resistance.
Next, you will visit the Women's Museum, which showcases the important role of women in Vietnam's history and culture. You will then take a cyclo ride through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter to soak up the atmosphere and experience local life.
Your last stop of the day will be at Hoan Kiem Lake with Ngoc Son Temple, where you can learn about the legend of the lake and its significance to the people of Hanoi. To wrap up the day, you will attend a traditional water puppet show, a unique and entertaining art form that has been a part of Vietnam's cultural heritage for centuries.
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Breakfast/ Lunch
DAY 3: HANOI - NINH BINH
In the morning, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi and take you on a scenic drive to Ninh Binh. First, you will visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital city of the Dinh Dynasty. Here, you can explore the fascinating history and architecture of this historical site.
After lunch at a local restaurant, you will embark on an amazing boat trip to visit Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning natural beauty and breathtaking views. As you float along the river, you will pass through a series of caves and marvel at the towering limestone cliffs.
In the late afternoon, you will check-in to your hotel in Ninh Binh and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
DAY 4: NINH BINH - HANOI
After breakfast at the hotel, you will check out and set off for the day.This morning visits include Bai Dinh Pagoda and Van Long Nature Reserve.
Bai Dinh pagoda is one of the largest pagodas in Southeast Asia. Marvel at its grandeur and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of this sacred place.
Continue your exploration with a boat ride in the enchanting Van Long Nature Reserve. As you glide along the serene waters, keep your eyes peeled for a chance to witness the mesmerizing beauty of the white-shorts langurs, a rare primate species that calls this reserve home.
After indulging in the natural splendor of Van Long, recharge with a delicious lunch before driving back to Hanoi. On arrival, check back into your hotel.
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Breakfast/ Lunch/
DAY 5: HANOI - BAC HA
Start your day with an 8:00 am departure from your Hanoi hotel. Enjoy a scenic 5-hour drive in your private car to Bac Ha, with a delicious lunch at a local restaurant along the way. Upon arrival, check-in to a cozy home-stay at a local house and take a short rest. Embark on a gentle trek to Ban Pho village, where you'll discover the fascinating culture and daily life of the Flower H'mong people. Marvel at the terraced fields and immerse yourself in the rural countryside. Return to the home-stay for a delightful hosted dinner and spend a comfortable night.
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
DAY 6: BAC HA MARKET - DRIVE TO SAPA
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the accommodation. Get ready to explore a vibrant hill tribe market in the area (Depending on the day: Bac Ha market on Sundays, Coc Ly market on Tuesdays, or Can Cau market on Saturdays). Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and encounter various ethnic minority groups like Flower Hmong, Phu La, Yao, Tay, Nung, and more. Discover an array of local products, from vibrant embroidery to unique handicrafts and everyday essentials. Don't miss the animal markets, where you can witness the trading and bartering of animals like dogs, pigs, cows, and buffaloes. Recharge with a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic 3-hour drive to Sapa town, with a quick stop at the Vietnam-China border gate for a glimpse of China and some memorable photos. Check-in at the hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure. Relax and make the most of your time in this enchanting town.
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
DAY 7: SAPA - HANOI
At 8:30 a.m., our team will pick you up and transfer you to the starting point of our trek in Y Linh Ho village, located in the breathtaking Muong Hoa Valley. As we descend, you'll be captivated by the stunning rice terraces that adorn the landscape, creating a truly picturesque setting. Crossing the river on a charming suspension bridge, we'll continue our trek uphill on a concrete path, providing an invigorating challenge and rewarding you with panoramic views of the valley. Our afternoon trek concludes in Lao Chai village, where our private vehicle will be waiting for you. We'll then embark on a scenic drive to enjoy a delicious lunch. Afterward, we'll make our journey back to Hanoi, where you'll check back into the same hotel. The evening is yours to explore and discover at your own pace.
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Breakfast/ Lunch
DAY 8: HANOI - HALONG BAY
In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi and driven to Halong Bay. Upon arrival at the pier in Halong City, you will board the cruise ship. As you cruise through the mesmerizing limestone karsts and crystal-clear waters, a delicious lunch will be served on board. Take in the stunning scenery as you glide along the bay. You will have the opportunity to visit a fascinating cave, where a guided tour will unveil its impressive formations. In the afternoon, you can choose to swim, kayak, or simply relax on the sun deck. As the sun sets, enjoy a delectable dinner on the boat, surrounded by the breathtaking views of Halong Bay. You will spend the night on the cruise ship, immersed in the serene ambiance of the bay.
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
DAY 9: HALONG BAY - FLY TO HOI AN
Wake up early to witness the captivating sunrise over the bay. Participate in a Tai Chi session on the sundeck to rejuvenate your body and mind. After a hearty breakfast, the cruise will continue to explore different areas of Halong Bay, allowing you to discover more hidden treasures and awe-inspiring landscapes. A delicious brunch will be served on board as the boat gradually returns to the pier. After disembarking from the cruise, you will be transferred back to Hanoi and then onward to the airport for a short flight to central Vietnam. Upon arrival at Danang airport, our team will be there to pick you up and transfer you to the beautiful city of Hoi An. Check into your hotel and enjoy a comfortable stay for the night, immersing yourself in the charm and atmosphere of this historic town.
Please note that the exact itinerary may vary depending on the chosen cruise company and weather conditions.
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
guide
Breakfast/ Lunch
DAY 10: HIGHLIGHTS OF HOI AN
Hoi An is a charming city, a beautifully preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port, dating back from the 15th to the 19th century, and its unique heritage is reflected in its buildings and street plan, influenced by both indigenous and foreign cultures.
On this day, you will get picked up and head to the boat dock after breakfast for a unique experience in a fishing village. You'll have the opportunity to see and learn about the life of the fishing community, and take a short ride in a basket boat, cycle through the countryside along quiet country roads lined with fields of rice, coconut, and corn.
Return to Hoi An town and spend the afternoon with your local guide for a delightful excursion to Hoi An!
Discover the charm of this well-preserved trading port as we explore its historic buildings, cultural exchanges, and local lifestyle. Marvel at the ancient Cam Pho communal house and iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Immerse yourself in the authentic Quan Thang ancient house and vibrant Fujian Assembly Hall. Visit the bustling central market, where you'll witness the daily life of locals and find an array of delicious food.
But that's not all! As a special highlight, you'll also have the unique opportunity to learn the art of making traditional lanterns. Under the guidance of enthusiastic craftsmen, you'll experience each stage of lantern-making, from bending the frame to completing your very own lantern.
After this unforgettable experience, return to your hotel to end the busy day!
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Breakfast/ Lunch
DAY 11: MY SON HOLYLAND
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, embark on a captivating journey to the My Son Holy Land in the morning. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, just an hour away from Hoi An, was once the heart of the Champa Kingdom. Explore the ancient Hindu temple ruins, dating back to the 4th century AD, amidst stunning surroundings.
The afternoon is yours to indulge in the charms of Hoi An. Whether you prefer relaxing on the beautiful beach, immersing yourself in the enchanting lantern-lit streets, shopping for tailor-made clothing and shoes, taking a boat trip, joining a cooking class, or exploring the town on a cycling tour, Hoi An offers a plethora of options. Don't miss the chance to savor the local cuisine, known for its delectable flavors and affordable prices. Enjoy this leisure time to discover Hoi An at your own pace and create lasting memories.
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Breakfast/
DAY 12: FLY TO HO CHI MINH CITY
This morning, enjoy some leisure time in Hoi An to further explore the town or do some last-minute shopping before your departure.
In the afternoon, you will be picked up from your hotel in Hoi An and transferred to the airport in Da Nang for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, you will be met by a driver and transferred to your hotel.
The rest of the day is free for you to explore the city on your own, relax at your hotel, or take an optional motorbike tour in the evening.
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Breakfast/
DAY 13: CU CHI TUNNELS & CITY
Depart early in the morning to beat the crowds and head to Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City. These tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War and are a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the Vietnamese people. Explore the tunnels and learn about the history of the war and the role of the tunnels in the conflict.
After the Cu Chi Tunnels visit, return to Ho Chi Minh City for lunch.
In the afternoon, visit Ho Chi Minh City's top attractions including Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office, War Remnants Museum, and the Reunification Palace, formerly known as the Presidential Palace of South Vietnam.
End your day with a memorable experience by admiring the spectacular sunset view from the top of the Bitexco Tower, the tallest building in Vietnam.
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Breakfast/ Lunch
DAY 14: SAIGON - MEKONG DELTA
On this day, you will leave Ho Chi Minh City and head to the Mekong Delta, a region famous for its scenic beauty and traditional way of life. Your first stop is Ben Tre, a province known for its coconut groves and cottage industries. Enjoy a 2-hour drive through the countryside and soak in the stunning scenery of rural Vietnam. Upon arrival in Ben Tre, you will embark on a motorboat ride along narrow canals, where you will have the chance to observe locals making traditional handicrafts like bricks and coconut candies. Take a ride on a motor cart or join a cycling tour to explore the coconut forests, rice fields, and vegetable gardens. After lunch, continue your journey with a relaxing sampan boat ride, drifting along a small canal lined with nipa palm trees. You will arrive in Can Tho city, the Mekong Delta's capital city, late in the afternoon. Spend the night here and enjoy the city's unique blend of modern amenities and traditional culture.
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Breakfast/ Lunch
DAY 15: MEKONG DELTA - SAIGON
Start your day early at 6:30 AM with a boat trip to the Cai Rang floating market. While the market may not be as busy as it once was, it still offers a unique and interesting experience. After exploring the market, we'll take a long cruise to Phong Dien, followed by a walk on a quiet country road to get a closer look at local life in the area. Next, we'll hop in our van and head to Vinh Long to visit the ancient Phu Ly Pagoda. Built in 1672, this Khmer pagoda is a stunning blend of Indian, Thai, and Cambodian architecture. After our visit, we'll continue our journey through the picturesque rice fields of Ben Luc before returning to Ho Chi Minh City late in the afternoon. The remainder of the day is on your own.
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Breakfast/ Lunch
DAY 16: DEPARTURE FROM SAIGON
As your adventure in Vietnam draws to a close, take some time to relax and reflect on your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps some last-minute shopping before we pick you up for your private transfer to the airport. Whether you're returning home or continuing on to your next destination, we hope you leave Vietnam with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for this beautiful country. Safe travels and we hope to see you again soon!
What's Included
Accommodation
Tour
Transfer
Guide
Breakfast/
How did people say about us!
Our Traveler's Beloved Programs
Traveler Reviews
Jay M
Date of Experience: Mar 2023
We highly recommend Custom Asia Travel for your trip to Southeast Asia! They provided a great combination of visiting historical and religious sites, temples, and also cultural connections in Thailand, Laos and Cambodia that we could have never made on our own. Our local guides were informative, and shared personal experiences that made our journey meaningful. We asked for an active trip, and Custom Asia Travel tailored our request with biking, kayaking and hiking. We enjoyed local cuisine in Laos, and were amazed by the history and significance of the temples in Cambodia, experienced via a beautiful bike tour.
Date of Experience: Mar 2023
We did a day trip in a Jeep in Ninh Binh with Thu, which included Trang An, Hang Mua, Bich Dong and Tam Coc. Thu was an amazing tour guide and was extremely helpful throughout the whole day, organising everything from start to finish and giving us insightful information about the things we saw, as well as life in Vietnam and it’s history more generally! The lunch was also great and the day turned out to be one of the best days of our trip! Couldn’t recommend Thu enough 😊
Nadine
Date of Experience: Mar 2023
We had an amazing time! Me and my friends visited the Halong/Lan Ha Bay and the Dry Halong Bay. Everything was perfectly organized & all the pick-ups were punctual. The guide and driver were very nice. The cruise ship and the eco lodge, in which we stayed, were great. The staff was very friendly and everything was clean. We can definitely recommend booking a trip with Custom Asia Travel! The organisation and contact with the company was great before, during and after the trip.
Whitney B
Date of Experience: Dec 2022
I cannot say enough positives about Custom Asia Travel! We visited Vietnam in December/January 2023 and had an amazing trip with our 3 teens. The itinerary exceeded our expectations! We travelled to Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, and Nha Trang. We had no issues with any of our transportation around the country - our drivers and guides were always there on time (early, actually), friendly and helpful. The accommodations were excellent and our guides were fantastic (Tanh, Tanh, and Viet - they were awesome!). Every place we stayed put our rooms right next to each other, often adjoining, and the kids’ room always had two twin beds and a cot, while my husband and I had a king bed. This was perfect as our teenagers did not want to share beds, lol! The activities were super fun and appealed to all of us. So many highlights - the kids loved the rice farm tour (riding the water Buffalo elicited the biggest smile we’ve ever seen from our 16 year old!), seeing the caves in Ninh Binh, the cooking class in Hoi An, and Ha Long Bay. I really appreciated that some of our itinerary was focused on less crowded activities - a couple of the temples we saw were practically empty, allowing us to enjoy and experience these beautiful sites on our own. We did a couple of bike rides which were also highlights, such a great way to explore and see the area! Minh was available and responsive while planning the trip and while we were there. I agree with others reviews about whether she ever sleeps! She was able to coordinate our luggage getting dropped off as it did not arrive with us, and contacted one of the hotels about a ring that had been left, and arranged for us to pick it up. She was warm, friendly, knowledgeable, and so helpful. We truly had a relaxing and stress free trip because of the excellent customer service from Minh and our guides. With only having 12 days to visit we were so grateful to be able to enjoy the travel and know that Minh and her team were there if and when needed. I highly recommend using this company, you will not regret it! Now I am dreaming of how quickly we can make it back!! Thank you thank you to Minh and the team, our trip was unforgettable!
Date of Experience: Feb 2022
We are over 60 yers old and for eficiency we decided to organise our trips in Vietnam with a local agency. Custom Asia Travel is the wright agency. We decided to visit Hanoi, Tam Coc, Ha Long, Da Nang, Hoi An, My son Sanctuary and Ho Chi Minh City with help of this agency. The organisation and planing of the tours, the selection of the places to visit, hotels, restaurants,cars ( clean and comfortable), drivers and guides was perfect. The drivers and guides where friendly and polite. The guides ( Cường Xi,in Hanoi and Tam Coc, Tran Thanh Binh in Ho Chi Minh as also the guide in Da Nang area) where perfect. They gave us many interesting information about the visited places, organized perfect the details of the trips. The boat arrangement done by Custom Asia Travel in Ha Long Bay - Peony 1 was perfect. The prices for the offered services are fair. We kindly recommend this agency for tailor made trips.
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