Insight into Vietnam

  • Code: CV18B
  • Private tour
  • Duration: 18 days

Overview

Venture on a journey of discovery with our 18-day Insight into Vietnam private tour. This meticulously crafted itinerary takes you on a magnificent adventure from the historical capital of Hanoi to the majestic landscapes of Cao Bang and Ba Be Lake. Your journey continues with a cruise through the legendary Halong Bay, a visit to the ancient charm of Hoi An, and a deep dive into the history of Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. If this tour captures your interest, please share your specific requirements, and we will customize the program to your satisfaction.

Trip Map

Insight into Vietnam
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Highlight

  • Hanoi: Discover the capital’s cultural landmarks, including the Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Temple of Literature.
  • Ninh Binh: Explore the scenic landscapes of Tam Coc, Trang An, and Bai Dinh Pagoda in the "Halong Bay on land."
  • Cao Bang: Visit the breathtaking Ban Gioc Waterfall and explore the tranquil beauty of this northern frontier region.
  • Ba Be Lake: Enjoy a serene boat ride and explore the pristine natural landscapes of Vietnam’s largest natural lake.
  • Halong Bay: Cruise through the iconic limestone karsts and emerald waters of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Hoi An: Wander the lantern-lit streets, admire the preserved ancient architecture, and explore the surrounding countryside.
  • My Son Sanctuary: Marvel at the ancient Cham temples and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Ho Chi Minh City: Dive into the vibrant city life, visit historic landmarks, and explore the Cu Chi Tunnels.
  • Mekong Delta: Experience life on the water with visits to floating markets, orchards, and traditional villages.

Detailed Itinerary

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Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, you will be greeted by your guide and a private driver who will transfer you to your hotel in the city center. Take the rest of the day to relax and settle in, get familiar with the neighborhood, and rest up for the exciting days ahead.
If you feel up for it, take a stroll around the nearby streets and soak up the local atmosphere. Alternatively, you could unwind at the hotel and make use of its amenities. In the evening, you could explore Hanoi's bustling culinary scene and try out some of the city's famous street food. Take a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of the city, and witness the lively night scene before retiring to your hotel for a good night's sleep.

Overnight in Hanoi
Inclusions: Private airport pick-up/ Tour guide/ Hotel accommodation

hanoi-train-street-cafe tran-quoc-pagoda

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel at 8:00 am to start your day of exploring the highlights of Hanoi. You will begin 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 the lunch break, you will head to the Museum of Ethnology to gain insight into the diverse cultures and traditions of Vietnam's many ethnic groups. Next, you will 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.

Overnight in Hanoi
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

ho-chi-minh-mausoleum khue-van-cac-hanoi

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.

Overnight in Ninh Binh
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

Tam-coc-ninh-binh ninh-binh-boat

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.

Overnight in Hanoi
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

bai-dinh-pagoda van-long-natural-reserve

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a scenic journey with your personal tour guide and driver to Cao Bang, a picturesque province nestled in the Northeast of Vietnam. As you traverse the roads, soak in the breathtaking countryside, mountain vistas, and lush forest scenery unfolding outside your car window. Pause midday for a delightful lunch at a local eatery. By late afternoon, reach your accommodation, where you can check in and unwind, savoring the tranquility for the remainder of the day.

Overnight in Cao Bang
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Hotel accommodation

cao-bang-overview cao-bang-mountain-and-river

Following breakfast, you'll be chauffeured to the Chinese border to witness the splendor of Ban Gioc Waterfall, a breathtaking natural wonder nestled between Vietnam and China. Prepare to be awestruck by its beauty. Next, make your way to a nearby attraction to explore the captivating Nguom Ngao Cave, adorned with exquisite stalactites and stalagmites, offering a glimpse into the marvels of nature. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local eatery before embarking on an afternoon journey along scenic back roads to the trekking point within the Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark area. Traverse a trail winding through majestic limestone mountains cloaked in ancient forests and verdant valleys. Conclude your day with a 90-minute trip to Cao Bang city, where you'll spend the night at a centrally located hotel, immersing yourself in the charm of this mountainous city.

Overnight in Cao Bang
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Hotel accommodation

ban-gioc-waterfall thac-ban-gioc

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a journey through Bac Kan province towards Ba Be National Park, home to Vietnam's largest natural freshwater lake. Following lunch at a local restaurant, head to the boat wharf by the Nang River, where you'll cruise downstream to explore Ba Be Lake. Sail through Puong Cave, marveling at its limestone formations, and take in the serene landscape of forests, fields, and villages. Weather permitting, enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake at a designated spot. Finally, check in for the night, unwind, and recharge after a day of adventure and discovery.

Overnight in Ba Be National Park
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Private boat/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner/ Hotel accommodation

ba-be-lake puong-cave

Following breakfast, check out of your accommodation and hop into your private car. Journey along the lakeshore and through a picturesque rural valley to explore Hua Ma Cave, renowned as one of the stunning limestone caves in northern Vietnam. Marvel at its depth and breadth adorned with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. In the afternoon, relax on the return trip to Hanoi, where you'll check in at the hotel and spend the night.

Overnight in Hanoi
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

hua-ma-cave hua-ma-cave-inside

Today, after over a week of adventure and discovery, you return to the vibrant capital of Vietnam. Treat yourself to a well-deserved day of relaxation in this fascinating city. Whether it's unwinding at the hotel's amenities, strolling through the charming old town for shopping and savoring traditional street cuisine, or indulging in a rejuvenating spa and massage experience, the choice is yours.

Overnight in Hanoi
Inclusions: Breakfast/ Hotel accommodation

hanoi-train-street1 hanoi-street-food-tour

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.

Overnight in Halong
Inclusions: Cruise's shuttle bus/ Cruise's in-house guide/ Cruise package/  Breakfast, lunch, dinner/ Private cabin on boat

halong-bay halong-swim

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.

Overnight in Hoi An
Inclusions: Cruise's shuttle bus/ Cruise's in-house guide/ Cruise package/ Breakfast, brunch/ Hotel accommodation

taichi-on-board-cruise sun-deck-halong-bay

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!

Overnight in Hoi An
Inclusions: Transfer/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

hoi-an-basket-boat lantern-making-in-hoian

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.

Overnight in Hoi An
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast/ Hotel accommodation

my-son-da-nang my-son-holly-land

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.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City
Inclusions: Private a.c. transfer/ Tour guide/ Breakfast/ Hotel accommodation

saigon-street Notre-Dame-Cathedral-of-Saigon

Set off early in the morning to avoid the crowds as you travel to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City. These historic tunnels, used by the Vietnam Soldiers during the American War, showcase the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people. Explore the tunnels and discover their significant role in the conflict. After your visit, head back to Ho Chi Minh City for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the city’s top attractions, including the Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office, War Remnants Museum, and the Reunification Palace, formerly the Presidential Palace of South Vietnam. Conclude your day by delving into Saigon’s renowned street coffee culture with your guide, who will offer linguistic insights and share stories about the everyday lives of the locals.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

cu-chi-tunnel Reunification-Palace-saigon

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.

Overnight in Can Tho
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Motor cart ride or bicycle/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, lunch/ Hotel accommodation

mekong-tour Motor-cart-ride-in-Mekong

Start your day early at 6:30 a.m 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.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City
Inclusions: Private a.c. vehicle/ Boat ride/ Tour guide/ Entrance fees/ Breakfast, Lunch/ Hotel accommodation

cai-rang-market floating-market-mekong

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!

Inclusions: Private airport transfer/ Breakfast

bui-vien-street departure

Watch detailed itinerary in video

Watch our quick video for a snapshot of your entire journey — all the must-see stops in one view.

FAQS

Absolutely! This itinerary is a suggested travel idea designed to inspire your journey. It serves as a starting point and can be fully customized to match your interests, schedule, and preferences. Whether you'd like to adjust the activities, include additional destinations, or tailor the pace of the trip, we're here to create a personalized experience just for you. Let us know what you're looking for, and we’ll craft an itinerary that perfectly fits your vision.

A private tour means your journey is exclusively yours. You'll have your own professional guide and private vehicle, giving you the freedom to travel at your own pace. You can linger longer at spots you love, make spontaneous stops for photos, and enjoy an experience built entirely around your interests, not a fixed group schedule.

Yes, absolutely! We specialize in creating personalized journeys for solo travelers, couples, families, and small groups of friends. As a solo traveler, your itinerary is tailored completely to you. A single supplement fee may apply for accommodation, but we will always work to find the best options for your needs.

Your personalized proposal will include a detailed list of inclusions. Typically, this covers:

  • Accommodation with daily breakfast

  • Private, air-conditioned transportation

  • A private, licensed tour guide

  • Entrance fees for all scheduled sights

  • Meals as specified in the itinerary

Exclusions are generally international flights, visa fees, travel insurance, and personal expenses.

We offer a wide range of accommodations to suit your style, from charming boutique hotels and eco-lodges to luxury resorts. To ensure maximum flexibility, we don't specify hotels in our sample itineraries. Your travel expert will suggest carefully selected options in your proposal, and we are happy to adjust them based on your preferences.

Visa requirements vary greatly depending on your nationality and destination. While your travel expert will offer guidance during the planning stage, we strongly recommend checking the official embassy or consulate website for the most current information.

Our booking process is simple and collaborative:

  1. Send a Request: Fill out the form on our website with your travel ideas.

  2. Personalize Your Trip: A travel expert will contact you to craft a detailed proposal, which you can refine until it’s perfect.

  3. Confirm & Book: Once you are 100% happy with the plan, you confirm your trip with a deposit.

To secure your booking, we require a deposit, which is typically 30% of the total tour cost. The final balance is due 60 days before your departure. Our cancellation policy is structured based on how far in advance the cancellation is made.

For full, detailed information, please see our Booking Terms & Conditions.

Yes, travel insurance is essential for your trip. At Custom Asia Travel, we do not include insurance in our packages to allow you the freedom to choose an insurance provider that best suits your needs and guarantees your rights. Your trip is a significant experience, and having reliable insurance ensures you are well-supported in case of unexpected events.

Please note that basic insurance policies in the host country may not meet your expectations regarding support or administrative procedures. Therefore, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance from your preferred provider.

Important: All customers are required to have valid travel insurance, and we request that you share your insurance details with us before departure.

Request a quote for this trip

Free service! No credit card requested at this stage The note if you are a solo traveler
At Custom Asia Travel, we create exclusive, private tours tailored to your unique preferences, offering premium, one-of-a-kind experiences. While we don’t offer group tours, our personalized itineraries are perfect for solo travelers seeking flexibility and exceptional service.
Please note that private solo tours may cost more as expenses aren’t shared, but they guarantee unmatched attention to detail and complete customization. Share your travel dreams with us, and we’ll craft your perfect journey!
Travel Date

Watch detailed itinerary in video

Watch our quick video for a snapshot of your entire journey — all the must-see stops in one view.

FAQS

Absolutely! This itinerary is a suggested travel idea designed to inspire your journey. It serves as a starting point and can be fully customized to match your interests, schedule, and preferences. Whether you'd like to adjust the activities, include additional destinations, or tailor the pace of the trip, we're here to create a personalized experience just for you. Let us know what you're looking for, and we’ll craft an itinerary that perfectly fits your vision.

A private tour means your journey is exclusively yours. You'll have your own professional guide and private vehicle, giving you the freedom to travel at your own pace. You can linger longer at spots you love, make spontaneous stops for photos, and enjoy an experience built entirely around your interests, not a fixed group schedule.

Yes, absolutely! We specialize in creating personalized journeys for solo travelers, couples, families, and small groups of friends. As a solo traveler, your itinerary is tailored completely to you. A single supplement fee may apply for accommodation, but we will always work to find the best options for your needs.

Your personalized proposal will include a detailed list of inclusions. Typically, this covers:

  • Accommodation with daily breakfast

  • Private, air-conditioned transportation

  • A private, licensed tour guide

  • Entrance fees for all scheduled sights

  • Meals as specified in the itinerary

Exclusions are generally international flights, visa fees, travel insurance, and personal expenses.

We offer a wide range of accommodations to suit your style, from charming boutique hotels and eco-lodges to luxury resorts. To ensure maximum flexibility, we don't specify hotels in our sample itineraries. Your travel expert will suggest carefully selected options in your proposal, and we are happy to adjust them based on your preferences.

Visa requirements vary greatly depending on your nationality and destination. While your travel expert will offer guidance during the planning stage, we strongly recommend checking the official embassy or consulate website for the most current information.

Our booking process is simple and collaborative:

  1. Send a Request: Fill out the form on our website with your travel ideas.

  2. Personalize Your Trip: A travel expert will contact you to craft a detailed proposal, which you can refine until it’s perfect.

  3. Confirm & Book: Once you are 100% happy with the plan, you confirm your trip with a deposit.

To secure your booking, we require a deposit, which is typically 30% of the total tour cost. The final balance is due 60 days before your departure. Our cancellation policy is structured based on how far in advance the cancellation is made.

For full, detailed information, please see our Booking Terms & Conditions.

Yes, travel insurance is essential for your trip. At Custom Asia Travel, we do not include insurance in our packages to allow you the freedom to choose an insurance provider that best suits your needs and guarantees your rights. Your trip is a significant experience, and having reliable insurance ensures you are well-supported in case of unexpected events.

Please note that basic insurance policies in the host country may not meet your expectations regarding support or administrative procedures. Therefore, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance from your preferred provider.

Important: All customers are required to have valid travel insurance, and we request that you share your insurance details with us before departure.

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