Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, meet your guide for a warm welcome before transferring by private vehicle to your hotel in the city. After check-in, the rest of the day is free for you to relax and adjust to the pace of Hanoi or take a gentle stroll through the surrounding neighborhood. Enjoy your first impressions of Vietnam’s capital at your own leisure.
Overnight in Hanoi
Begin the morning with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, an important landmark honoring the country’s founding father, followed by a stop at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. Continue with a leisurely walking tour through the atmospheric Old Quarter. From 09:00 to 13:00, join a hands-on cooking class where you will learn to prepare traditional dishes, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. In the evening, transfer to Hanoi Railway Station to board the overnight train to Lao Cai.
Overnight on the Train
Arrive early in Lao Cai and transfer to Sapa, where a light breakfast awaits before you set out on a scenic trek. Walk through the ethnic villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van, home to the H’mong and Dzay communities, while admiring sweeping rice terraces and daily rural life. After enjoying a local lunch and the tranquil mountain scenery, return to Sapa town for check-in. The afternoon is free for you to explore or rest at leisure.
Overnight in Sapa
Spend the morning at your own pace, with time to explore Sapa’s lively local market or take an optional excursion on the Fansipan cable car for breathtaking mountain views. In the afternoon, depart Sapa and travel back to Hanoi aboard a comfortable 24-seat limousine bus, a journey of approximately five hours through the dramatic northern landscapes. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Overnight in Hanoi
This morning, drive south for about two hours to reach Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Halong Bay on Land.” Begin with a visit to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, before continuing to the picturesque Bich Dong Pagoda nestled among limestone formations. Later, enjoy a peaceful sampan boat ride as you glide through the dramatic caves and waterways of Tam Coc or Trang An.
Overnight in Ninh Binh
Enjoy a leisurely morning with free time to relax or ride a bicycle through the tranquil countryside of Ninh Binh, passing rice fields and quiet villages. As evening approaches, transfer to Ninh Binh Railway Station and board the Reunification Express train bound for Dong Hoi in Quang Binh Province. Settle into your cabin for your overnight journey.
Overnight on the Train
Arrive in Dong Hoi and transfer directly to Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO-listed area renowned for its impressive cave systems. Embark on a boat trip along the serene Son River to enter Phong Nha Cave, famous for its underground river and striking rock formations. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Paradise Cave, one of the most spectacular dry caves in Asia, admired for its vast chambers and beautiful stalactites.
Overnight in Quang Binh
Transfer to Dong Hoi Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, where you will meet your private driver (no guide) for the onward journey to Phan Thiet or Mui Ne. The approximately four-hour drive brings you to a beautiful beachfront resort where you can unwind and enjoy the coastal atmosphere. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure after check-in.
Overnight in Phan Thiet
Today is entirely free for relaxation and beach activities. Soak up the sun along Phan Thiet’s golden coastline or choose from a variety of optional experiences, such as a jeep ride to the famous red and white sand dunes, exciting kitesurfing sessions, or a soothing spa treatment. The day is yours to enjoy at a leisurely pace.
Overnight in Phan Thiet
Depart Phan Thiet in the morning for the return drive of approximately four hours to Ho Chi Minh City. In the afternoon, explore the city’s key landmarks, including the historic Reunification Palace, the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, the colonial-era Central Post Office, and the lively Ben Thanh Market. In the evening, enjoy a memorable dinner cruise along the Saigon River with illuminated skyline views.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy free time until your private transfer to the airport for your onward departure. Leave Vietnam with wonderful memories of your journey.
All government taxes and service charges
Local language-speaking guide as per program
Private high-quality transportation
Private airport transfers
All entrance fees as per program
All accommodations (or similar) with daily breakfast
Train tickets Hanoi – Lao Cai and Ninh Binh – Dong Hoi
Meals as specified (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
International air tickets
Flights & visa fees
Travel Insurance in all kinds
Meals not mentioned in itinerary
Compulsory Meals
Drinks during Meals
Tip, drinks, any personal expenses
Early check-in and late check-out
