Vietnam Premium Train Group Tour – 16 Days

Highlights of the Trip

This premium Vietnam tour offers a luxurious, immersive exploration of Vietnam’s cultural and natural wonders, combining high-end services with authentic local experiences. Guests begin in Hanoi, diving into Hanoi’s rich history and street food scene before an overnight train journey to the scenic villages of Sapa. Exclusive experiences include trekking to remote ethnic villages, an ascent to Fansipan Peak via mountain train and cable car, and a private cruise through Lan Ha Bay, complete with opportunities for kayaking, cooking classes, and relaxing onboard spa services. The tour continues with a scenic drive along Hai Van Pass, exploring the historic towns of Hue and Hoi An, and indulging in a rare journey on the Vietage luxury train to Quy Nhon. In Ho Chi Minh City, guests can experience the vibrant nightlife on a vintage Vespa, and visit the Cu Chi Tunnels.

This tour is meticulously crafted to blend Vietnam’s hidden gems with premium comforts, ensuring an unforgettable journey travellers.

• Premium Standard Accommodation (4-star hotels).
• Expert Local Guides ensuring the best insights and comfort.
• Deluxe Cruises.
• Private or Group Tour Options: Tailor your adventure or join a group for a social travel experience.

Immersive Experiences Include:

• Sampling authentic street food in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
• An overnight train to Sapa, introducing the tranquil beauty of northern Vietnam’s valleys, where travellers trek to H’mong, Dzay, and Tay ethnic villages.
• A hike to Fansipan Peak, Vietnam’s highest mountain, via a scenic mountain train and cable car.
• In Hoi An, join local farmers to experience daily village life and take to the river with fishermen in traditional bamboo basket boats.
• An exciting vintage Vespa tour in Saigon, delving into the city’s vibrant nightlife, street food, and hidden cafes with live music.

This group tour operates twice a month. Please see the selected departure dates.

Two age groups are offered for this tour:

• 30 – 55 years.
• 50 years plus.

*If you are outside of this age range please let us know. We are happy to accommodate different ages. 

We can also create a customised private tour if required.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Hanoi

• Fine Art Museum – Home to one of the most intriguing art collections in Vietnam.
• Temple of Literature – Vietnam’s first university, dating back to the 11th century.
• Hoa Lo Prison – Infamously known as the “Hanoi Hilton”.
• Old Quarter – Renowned for street food exploration with dishes like pho, bun cha, and more.

Lao Cai

• Here you will visit different minority villages to engage with local, rural life.

Sapa

• Fansipan Peak – Reach the “Roof of Indochina” via cable car and enjoy panoramic views.
• Muong Hoa Valley – Known for its breath-taking natural landscapes and ethnic village views.

Halong Bay/Lan Ha Bay

• Dark and Bright Caves – Popular caves for kayaking and scenic exploration.
• Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches Islets) – Stunning landscapes for kayaking and swimming.
• Tra Bau – Anchorage for an overnight cruise stay.
• Hoa Cuong (Diamond Cave) – Untouched cave within a forest-covered mountain.

Hue

• Thien Mu Pagoda – Iconic pagoda and important religious site.
• Royal Tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh – Contrast in royal mausoleum architecture from the Nguyen Dynasty.
• Hue Garden Houses – Traditional houses with unique architecture and lush gardens.

Danang

• Cham Museum – Houses a remarkable collection of Hindu sculptures and relics.

Hoi An

• Hoi An Ancient Town – UNESCO World Heritage Site with preserved architecture from various cultures.
• Farming and Fishing Villages – Engage in local agriculture and fishing practices, including basket boat fishing in the Thu Bon estuary.

Quy Nhon

• Enjoy free time in this beautiful coastal destination.

Ho Chi Minh City

• Cu Chi Tunnels – Extensive underground network used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.
• Reunification Hall – Historical French colonial building with a role in Vietnam’s history.
• Main Post Office – Masterpiece of French colonial architecture.
• Jade Emperor Temple – Unique Taoist temple with intricate carvings and sculptures.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Old Quarter Street Food Tour – Dive into Hanoi’s street food culture, sampling iconic dishes like pho, bun cha, and banh cuon.

Bia Hoi (Local Beer Spot) – Enjoy an authentic experience at a bia hoi, a popular spot for locals to gather over draft beer.

H’mong and Dzay Villages – Ethnic minority villages with scenic views in the valleys. Engage with the culture and traditions of the H’mong and Dzay ethnic groups while hiking through their scenic valleys. Enjoy lunch with a local family.

Thanh Phu Village – Traditional stilt houses of the Tay ethnic minority. Here you can have an overnight stay in a Tay stilt house, offering insight into the locals lifestyle, architecture, and hospitality.

Red Dao Village of Nam Toong –In Sapa, learn about the traditions of the Red Dao, known for distinctive clothing and herbal remedies, while sharing a meal prepared by locals.

Farm-to-Table Experience – In Hoi An, participate in daily farming activities like planting and harvesting vegetables with local farmers in Hoi An’s countryside.

Basket Boat Ride – In Hoi An, experience navigating the iconic round bamboo basket boats, historically used by Vietnamese fishermen.

Saigon Vintage Vespa Tour – A unique nightlife experience through the city’s districts and street food spots.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Vietnam 

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region. While in Vietnam, be sure to try Pho. This is Vietnam’s national dish – a a noodle soup made with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, herbs, and either beef (phở bò) or chicken (phở gà). The broth is simmered with star anise, cinnamon, and other spices. You can also try Banh Mi. This famous sandwich has French influences, using a baguette filled with a variety of meats (grilled pork, pâté, or cold cuts), pickled vegetables, cilantro, chilies, and mayonnaise.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Enjoy a leisurely, premium cruise around Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay.

Embrace a serene cruise along the beautiful Perfume River in Hue.

Accommodation of this Tour

• Hanoi: MK Premier Boutique Hotel (a Vietnamese style hotel, located in the Hanoi Old quarter –Luxury City View room).
• Lan Ha Bay: Nostalgia Cruise (**** Deluxe quality boat with elegant design – Princess Suite).
• Hue: Eldora hotel (****Located in the heart of the city within walking distance to many tourist attractions, exquisite style, spacious room – Deluxe Premier Room).
• Hoi An: La Senta Hoi An (**** nice boutique hotel, well-appointed in Hoi An town – Deluxe Rice Field view).
• Quy Nhon: Avani Quy Nhon Resort (***** Luxury resort 63 rooms and suites, all with ocean views – Deluxe Studio Room).
• Ho Chi Minh City: Harmony Saigon Hotel (city centre location, nice rooftop swimming pool –Premier room).

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival (GP)

Arriving at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi, you’ll be met and driven to your hotel. You’ll have time to relax after your journey. Your overnight stay will be in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi City tour with street food/ Overnight train to Lao Cai (B, street food, G)

After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll visit the Fine Art Museum which is consider the most interesting art collections in Vietnam. Your next stop will be Temple of Literature, the first university in Vietnam dating back to the 11th century and Hoa Lo Prison – better known by captured US pilots as the ‘Hanoi Hilton’

Later, we will be wandering a couple hours in the Old Quarter to explore many of the best street food. You can choose your own selection, for example from ‘pho’ (Hanoi’s famous beef noodle soup), ‘nom’ (green papaya salad with seasoned beef), ‘banh goi’ (minced pork and mushroom pillow-shaped pasty covers in breadcrumbs and deep-fried), ‘banh cuon’ (warm rice paper with pork and fried onion), or bun cha (fresh noodle with grilled pork and a sharp sauce), or Bun Cha (fresh noodle with grilled pork). Try 3-4 varieties as you wish.

The tour will finish, in true local style, at a Bia Hoi where you can enjoy some local draft beer. You’ll check in a mini hotel nearby the railway station for the refreshing until 21.00, then take the overnight sleeper to Lao Cai.You will spend the night on board.

Day 3: Lao Cai/Lao Chai/Ta Van/Thanh Phu (B, L, D, G)  

You’ll arrive at Lao Cai Train Station at early morning. Your guide will welcome you you’ll hike down a scenic valley calling in at the H’mong and Dzay ethnic minority villages on the way. You’ll have lunch with a local family. Later in the afternoon, you’ll be picked up by car to travel 12km ahead. You’ll enjoy picturesque scenery e-route and diverse ethnic minorities. You’ll then continue your hiking to Thanh Phu village where you’ll have dinner and spend the night in a Tay ethnic minority group stilt-house. (Local homestay)

Day 4: Thanh Phu/Nam Toong/Ban Ho/Sapa (B, L, D, G)

After breakfast, you’ll trek to the village of Xa Pho tribe, the smallest ethnic group in Sapa who have very little contact with modern Vietnam and they can speak very little Vietnamese. The route will continue taking you through the rice fields to the Red Dao village of Nam Toong where your guide will prepare your lunch in a local house.

After lunch you will ascend back to Ban Ho where your driver is waiting for you to take you back to Sapa.

Day 5: Sapa/ Fansipan Peak by Cable/ Hanoi by shuttle bus (B, L, G)

This morning, from 8.00 A.M you will have combo tickets (inclusive of mountain train and cable car) to visit Fansipan Peak (the guide will help to buy tickets and you will visit the Fansipan Peak by yourself).

Firstly, you will enjoy a total length of approximately 2 km on train from Sapa town to the cable car station. This is the longest mountain railway in Vietnam up to the present time. The train goes through several mysterious tunnels, crosses the viaduct and offers passengers a view to looking down the majestic natural beauty of Muong Hoa valley and peaceful villages.

You then continue with 15 minutes on cable car to admire the beautiful natural landscape at an altitude of thousands of meters. It is the primitive forest Hoang Lien Son, poetic Muong Hoa, the magnificent Hoang Lien Son mountain range… Reach the altitude of 2800 meters, you have a good time to see the view and take photos, visit pagoda the spiritual destinations and trek up to 600 steps (or take another short tram) you will reach the peak of Fansipan – the Roof of Indochina.

Retuning back to your hotel to get luggage and our guide will drop off you at the bus station for the returning Hanoi by Limousine car. You will spend the night in Hanoi.

Note that innumerable street food specialties will be available throughout the day; we just mention some of the famous dishes, but you may find some other interesting on the way exploring.

Day 6: Hanoi/ Halong/ Lan Ha Bay/ Overnight stay on Nostalgia Cruise (B, L, D, DP in Hanoi, G on board)

Around 09.00am, your private driver will arrive and take you to Halong.

11:00 – 11:30 Arriving at Lot 32 – Tuan Chau Marina – have check-in procedures at the waiting lounge. You can take special tea at the lounge by a warm welcome.

11:45 – 12:00 Transfer to Nostalgia Cruise by a tender boat. Welcome aboard, we’ll have some welcome drinks and gather at the restaurant for a cruise briefing and some safety instructions.

12:45 – 13:00 Passengers will be taking lunch while we cruise and visit Ha Long Bay – Lan Ha Bay – one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature

15:00 – 15:30 We progress to Dark and Bright Caves – a must-visit destination! Kayaking through these caves is the ultimate way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Ha Long Bay up close.

Option 2: Discover Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches Islets), where tranquil waters and picturesque landscapes create an idyllic setting for kayaking or unwinding on a sandy shore. Take pleasure in a refreshing swim in the emerald-green waters. (If the weather permits)

17:00 – 17:30 Nostalgia Cruise anchors for an overnight stay in Tra Bau, Lan Ha Bay, offering a serene landscape to immerse yourself in the bay’s natural beauty.

18:00 – 18:15 Onboard you may join a cooking demonstration and enjoy the Happy Hour (buy 1 get 1) at the bar while watching the view of the bay at sunset.

Option: Massage service available. Please book with our Cruise Manager directly.

19:15 – 19:30 Savor a fusion dinner made with the freshest ingredients in a sophisticated space with elegant French neoclassical style and traditional oriental touches.

21:00 – 21:30 It’s time to admire the beauty of the night on the bay, our bar on the sundeck, and in the restaurant welcomes you. You may want to try your luck with squid fishing or watch a movie in the restaurant, we also have chess and cards for you.

23:00 Overnight on board.

Day 7: Lan Ha Bay/Hanoi/Overnight train to Hue (Brunch, G on board,)

06:00 – 06:30 It is a perfect time to refresh and indulge yourself in the peaceful beauty of the bay with a tai chi session on the sundeck. If you want to hunt for dawn, get up from 5:30 to 6:00 depending on the season, and consult our sailors.

06.45 – 07:00 We will have breakfast at the restaurant while continuing the cruise.

08:30 – 08:45 We progress to Hoa Cuong Cave, also known as Diamond Cave, remains untouched by humans, preserving its natural beauty. Hidden deep in a forest-covered mountain, it exudes mystery and wonder, sure to mesmerize visitors!

09:45 – 10:00 Nostalgia Cruise welcomes you back on board and it is time for checking out.

Enjoy a delightful brunch at our restaurant while cruising back.

11:00 – 11:45 Disembark Nostalgia Cruise at Tuan Chau Marina, say best wishes, and end your cruise with us.

You should arrive in the late afternoon and spend the night in Hanoi.

*Cruise program is subject to changed due to weather or cruise operation plan upon authority’s policy

You will be dropped off at a mini hotel nearby the railway station and  free until the time to Hue by overnight train.

Day 8: Hue Arrival/ Hue Royal Tombs (B, L, G)

Upon arrival at Hue station, your guide will meet you and take you to the hotel for the breakfast.

Next, you will be taken up by a cruise along the Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, and then by road to the Royal Tombs of Emperor Minh Mang and, in the afternoon, Emperor Khai Dinh. The two mausoleums span the long reign of the Nguyen King’s imperial dynasty – the contrast is stark.

From there, you’ll return to Hue to visit one of city’s ‘garden houses’ and then return to your hotel to freshen-up. You’ll spend the night in Hue.

Each Royal mausoleum reflects the personality of the Emperor it commemorates. The most majestic is that of Emperor Minh Mang, a staunch follower of Confucianism with many wives, concubines and a small army of children. Planned by the Emperor and built shortly after his death in formal Chinese style, it’s opulent and exotic, and a good example of classic Sino-Vietnamese architecture.

In complete contrast to Emperor Ming Mang’s flamboyant creation, the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh is an unprepossessing concrete construction on the side of a wide valley. Its interest lies in the uneasy combination of Vietnamese and European features, the use of fragments of ceramics and glass for decoration, and the striking views from the courtyard in front of the mausoleum.

The garden houses are a unique feature of Hue. The houses are traditional, privately owned, and set in attractive formal gardens. Some have connections with the old Royal Imperial Court. Hue traditional architecture has long had close associations with the natural environment. The garden houses reflect this association. Each is highly individual – house and garden, people and scenery, plants, clouds and water co-exist and blend with each other in a harmonious context. The narrow streets and abundant flora give the garden house area a country village feeling.

Day 9: Hue/Danang/Hoi An (B, L, G)

In the morning, your car will arrive to drive you to Danang. On the way, you’ll cross the high mountain pass of Hai Van. The views from top are excellent – you should be able to see Lang Co beach, village and the lagoon far below, and Danang spread out before you to the south. Upon arriving in Danang, you’ll have a brief look at the remarkable Hindu statuary in the Cham Museum before leaving for Hoi An. In the afternoon, you’ll have a guided visit to the Ancient Town of Hoi An. You’ll spend the night in Hoi An.

Hoi An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage area. An ancient trading port, once the largest in Indochina, Hoi An was a meeting point for many cultures that left their mark in the different architectural features of its wooden buildings. The original traditional street pattern still exists, as does the quay that once welcomed ships from all over East Asia and beyond. Many remained there for months at a time, waiting for favourable trade winds to carry them home.

There are plenty of good restaurants offering a variety of cuisines and price levels. The town is also a good place for shopping for silk. You can have your clothes tailor-made within a day or two at reasonable cost.

Hoi An town is three kilometres from Cua Dai Beach – part of what was known as China Beach and used for rest and recreation by American GIs during the Vietnam War. The beach is composed of white sand, is fringed with palm trees and overlooks the South China Sea.

Day 10: Hoi An – From Farmer to Fisherman (Join-in) (B, L, G)

The day starts with cycling the narrow roads through the countryside to a local farming village, passing by rice paddy fields, water buffalos, bamboo bridges and local farmers on their daily work. You will join in the daily work of local farmers – hoeing and a soil, watering veggie at an organic herb garden, riding water buffalo in the field. You’ll then board a boat to the mouth of the Thu Bon estuary where the river meets the Cua Dai Sea and cruise along the coastline observing the lives of the local fishermen.

After joining the fisherman to try your hand at catching fish in a traditional ‘Thung Chai’ basket boat, you will meander through the water palm coconut canal. During the American War, Viet Cong soldiers made use of this area as a highly effective hiding place from enemy attacks through their long struggle. Following an insightful visit to a local fishing village, you’ll be free to relax and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch.

Thung Chai Basket boats, similar in style to coracles in use throughout the ancient world, are widely used throughout Central Vietnam, and are highly suited to the local terrain and lifestyles of local fishermen due to their relative light weight and portability, often doubling as a carrier for various handy items. Circular and constructed of bamboo and tarred for waterproofing, these small boats can typically carry up to five people, and represent a fun-filled opportunity to touch the authentic rural soul of Vietnam. As a precaution, life jackets are provided for your safety during this excursion.

Please note that the clothing and footwear used for activities is likely to get wet and or dirty out on the water, in the mud and basket boats. Travellers are suggested to bring sufficient spare clothes in case it rains or you get wet or dirty during the morning activity sessions. Please wear shoes that are comfortable, and can be worn in the mud (or you will need to take your shoes out).  

Day 11: Hoi An free (B)

The day will be free for you to bike around Hoi An, go to An Bang Beach or do anything that takes your fancy. You will spend the night in Hoi An.

Day 12: Hoi An/Danang/Quy Nhon by luxury Vietage Train (B, L, DP)

At 06.00am, your driver will arrive at your hotel to pick you up and transfer you to Danang Train Station. You will board the Vietage train at 08.00 and start your scenic journey to Quy Nhon. Arriving at Dieu Tri train station at 14.03, you will be met and transferred to Anantara Quy Nhon Villas. You will spend the night in Quy Nhon.

The Vietage elegant and luxurious 12-guest carriage developed by Anantara links historic Hoi An Ancient Town to the unhurried coastlines of Quy Nhon, 318 kilometres to the South, on a six-hour journey that immerses travellers in the romance of the rails.

Inspired by the beauty of Vietnam and the luxury of vintage rail travel, The Vietage’s six spacious booths feature two comfortable window seats, offering everyone onboard views of Central Vietnam’s verdant plains, forested mountains and sparkling shores. This beautifully designed carriage also features its own sit-up bar, gourmet dining, private restroom and a dedicated area for head and shoulder treatments.

Among the finest beach resorts in Vietnam, surrounded by mountain on three sides and overlooking the Bay of Quy Nhon, Anantara Quy Nhon Villas offers beachfront basking and adventurous discoveries. Only 26 luxury pool villas dot seven acres of lush landscaping fronting a private cove.

Day 13: Quy Nhon free (B)

Your time will be your own!

Quy Nhon is a sleepy place off the regular tourist track.  It’s an important historical site with several magnificent Cham towers and was the home of the Tay Son brothers who led a peasant revolt and drove the Chinese invaders from Vietnam.

Day 14: Quy Nhon/Fly to Ho Chi Minh City/Saigon nightlife on a Vintage Vespa (Join-in) (B, D, DP in Quy Nhon, GP in Ho Chi Minh City)

After breakfast, you will be free until your private car and driver will arrive to take you to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, you will be welcomed by our guide and transferred to your hotel in the city centre.

*Check-in time: 15.00. Early check-in is subject to availability

In the evening at 18.00, you’ll be picked up at your hotel for Vespa tour. Your first stop is to Café zoom to “watch the world goes by” (quoted by The Lonely Planet) and enjoy cocktail and appetizer (inclusive) before adventuring into favourite local eating spot. You’ll experience the nightlife of Saigon the way locals do, all from the back of a vintage Vespa scooter. Then the tour will continue to a hidden Vietnamese-style coffee shop to have a taste of Vietnamese music (live) as a local. Your overnight stay will be in Ho Chi Minh City.

The tour will start with a ride to part Chinatown and then heading to District 4 through busy streets and alleys to see the night life of locals and enjoy street sea- food and cold drinks, places that foreigner won’t be found. Leaving district 4 to district 3 the tour pass through downtown district 1 to take in the sights on the way to Banh Xeo, specialty of Saigon, and southern food with the locals.

Day 15: Ho Chi Minh City and the Cu Chi tunnels (B, L, G)

After breakfast, your guide will take you to visit the famous Cu Chi tunnels, a Byzantine maze of underground passages, chambers, rooms and booby traps used by both the Vietminh and the Viet Cong to suddenly materialise as if from nowhere, launch a lightning ambush, and vanish equally rapidly.

Later, you’ll return back Ho Chi Minh City and your guide will show you around the city. You’ll visit the Reunification Hall – an early colonial masterpiece constructed to accommodate the Governor –general of Indochina. Next stop will be the Main Post Office – a masterpiece of French colonial architecture.

You’ll also call in at the Jade Emperor Temple. It’s one of the best Taoist temples in Vietnam, with superb effigies, remarkable carved panels of the descent to Hell and somewhat incongruous terrapin and tortoise sanctuaries before returning back to your hotel for refreshment. You will spend the night in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 16: Ho Chi Minh City departure (B, DP)

Your day will be free until your private car and driver arrive to take you to Tan Son Nhat airport for your international flight back home.

Key:

B = Breakfast

L = Lunch

D = Dinner

G = English-speaking tour guide

GP = English-speaking guided pick up

DP = Driver pick-up

Price

From £2473pp

Price per person based on small group size of 4 people

• The price is subject to availability, based on twin room sharing.
• This group tour offers various departure dates.
• Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Hanoi  Arrival

Arrive at Noi Bai Airport and relax at your hotel.

Overnight at MK Premier Boutique Hotel.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour

Visit the Fine Art Museum, the Temple of Literature, and Hoa Lo Prison. Later, discover the Old Quarter and try local street food. Then take the overnight sleeper train to Lao Cai.

Overnight on an Overnight Sleeper Train.

Day 3: Lao Cai/Lao Chai/Ta Van/Thanh Phu

Hike to the H’mong and Dzay ethnic minority villages and enjoy lunch with a local family. Then visit Thanh Phu village.

Overnight in a Local Homestay.

Day 4: Thanh Phu/Nam Toong/Ban Ho/Sapa

Trek to the village of Xa Pho tribe and visit the Red Dao village of Nam Toong. Enjoy lunch in a local house before ascending back to Ban Ho to reach Sapa.

Overnight in Sapa.

Day 5: Sapa/ Fansipan Peak by Cable/ Hanoi by shuttle bus

Visit Fansipan Peak via a mountain train and cable car. Then return to Hanoi via a limousine.  

Overnight at MK Premier Boutique Hotel.

Day 6: Hanoi/ Halong/ Lan Ha Bay/ Overnight stay on Nostalgia Cruise

Visit Ha Long Bay and discover the Dark and Bright caves where you can kayak. Or you can visit Bai Trai Dao. Join a cooking demonstration onboard and take part in squid fishing.

Day 7: Lan Ha Bay/Hanoi/Overnight train to Hue

Embrace a morning Tai Chi session. Visit Hoa Cuong Cave, before departing the cruise and heading to Hanoi. Take the overnight train to Hue.

Day 8: Hue Arrival/ Hue Royal Tombs

Enjoy a cruise along the perfume river to the Thien Mu Pagoda, before visiting the Royal Tombs. Then, visit a traditional garden house.

Overnight at Eldora Hotel.

Day 9: Hue/Danang/Hoi An

Drive to Danang, crossing Hai Van. Visit the Cham Museum before transferring to Hoi An. Enjoy a guided tour of Hoi An.

Overnight at La Senta Hoi An.

Day 10: Hoi An – From Farmer to Fisherman

Cycle to a local farming village and join local farmers at work. Ride a boat along the Thu Bon estuary. Try catching fish in a Thung Chai basket boat and visit a local fishing village.

Overnight at La Senta Hoi An.

Day 11: Hoi An Free

Enjoy a free day around Hoi An.

Overnight at La Senta Hoi An.

Day 12: Hoi An/Danang/Quy Nhon by luxury Vietage Train

Board the luxury Vietage train to scenic Quy Nhon.

Overnight at Avani Quy Nhon Resort.

 Day 13: Quy Nhon Free

Enjoy a free day.

Overnight at Avani Quy Nhon Resort.

Day 14: Quy Nhon/Fly to Ho Chi Minh City/Saigon nightlife on a Vintage Vespa

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City. In the evening, enjoy a Foodie Vespa Tour around the city.

Overnight at Harmony Saigon Hotel.

Day 15: Ho Chi Minh City and the Cu Chi tunnels

Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels. Later, visit the Reunification Hall, the Main Post Office, and the Jade Emperor Temple.

Overnight at Harmony Saigon Hotel.

Day 16: Ho Chi Minh City departure

Free time before your departing flight.

Tour FAQs

When is the best time of year to experience this Tour?

The best time to undertake this tour across Vietnam would be from October to April, which aligns with the dry season in most parts of the country.

What is included in the tour package?

The tour includes accommodation, meals as listed (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner), all guided tours and activities specified, entrance fees, local transportation (including trains and shuttles), and pick-up/drop-off services. International flights are not included within the price. We are happy to arrange international airfare for you.

Is the tour physically demanding?

Certain days, like trekking in Sapa (Days 3-4) and cycling in Hoi An (Day 10), involve moderate physical activity. The trekking may involve uneven and sloping paths, so we recommend participants to be in reasonable health. Alternatives to trekking and cycling can be arranged if required.

Who is this tour suitable for?

This tour is offered as a group tour, where solo travellers, families, couples, friends, and colleagues can join. We offer two age groups that you can select to join (30-55 years) or (50 years plus). We can also design this tour as a tailor-made private tour if required.

Please note that this tour family friendly. However, younger children may need assistance during trekking and certain activities.

What meals are included throughout this tour?

Within each day in the itinerary, the meals as listed are included. For example, on Day 4 this includes B, L, and D – representing Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner as included on this day.

Will there be vegetarian or special dietary options?

Vegetarian and special dietary requirements can be accommodated. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions in advance and we will do our best to accommodate.

What should I pack for this tour?

In Hanoi, pack layers and light sweaters, plus comfortable walking shoes for city tours and exploring the Old Quarter’s Street food. For Sapa and Lao Cai, bring lightweight hiking gear, a rain jacket, and a daypack for essentials. Prepare for overnight train travel with warm, comfortable layers and compact toiletries for freshening up on board.

In Hue, Hoi An, and Quy Nhon, we recommend breathable, lightweight clothing. For the Ha Long Bay cruise, bring swimwear, sun protection, and casual evening attire for dinner. Don’t forget waterproof shoes or sandals and a set of clothes you don’t mind getting wet or muddy for activities like kayaking and basket boating.

In Ho Chi Minh City, pack lighter layers for warmer weather, as well as comfortable footwear for exploring the Cu Chi tunnels.

We also recommend bringing a power adaptor (Vietnam uses Type A, C and D plug types), copies of important documents, personal first aid kit, insect repellent and sun protection.

Do I need Travel Insurance for this trip?

Travel insurance is not included in this trip, so will have to be arranged separately. When purchasing your travel insurance, we recommend for this to include medical care and emergency evacuation.

What is the currency in Vietnam?

The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese đồng (VND). Banknotes come in high denominations, with common notes ranging from 10,000 VND to 500,000 VND. Coins are rarely used in Vietnam, so expect to primarily use banknotes. When exchanging or withdrawing money, it’s good to have smaller denominations for convenience, as some local vendors may have limited change for large bills.

 Which Airlines fly to Hanoi from London?

Common airlines include Vietnam Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Thai Airways, and Cathay Pacific.

Which Airlines fly from Ho Chi Minh City to London?

Common airlines include Vietnam Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Thai Airways, and British Airways.

Do I need a visa for Vietnam (travelling from the UK)?

For this specific tour, you will not require a visa. You can visit Vietnam without a visa up to 45 days for tourism or business. If you would like to stay for longer than 45 days, you will need to arrange a visa. Please be sure to check your country’s relevant website or contact us directly for up to date information.

What are the Passport Requirements for entering Vietnam (travelling from the UK)?

To enter Vietnam, you must ensure your passport has the following:

• An expiry date of at least 6 months after the date you arrive in Vietnam.
• At least 2 blank pages.
• No damage to your passport.

When entering Vietnam, ensure that your passport is stamped and that the correct visa expiry date is written in your passport. Please be sure to check your country’s relevant website or contact us directly for up to date information.

Will there be an English-speaking guide throughout the tour?

Yes, English-speaking guides (indicated by “G” in the itinerary) are provided on most days to offer cultural insights, translate, and assist.

Can I choose my own meals during the street food tour in Hanoi?

Yes, you’ll have a selection of iconic Vietnamese dishes to choose from during the Hanoi Street food tour.

What should I expect during the overnight train journeys?

The overnight train journeys, offer sleeper cabins. Each cabin accommodates four passengers with shared restrooms outside the cabins.

What happens in case of bad weather during the Halong Bay cruise?

The cruise itinerary may be adjusted or delayed for safety due to weather conditions. Alternate activities or accommodations will be provided if necessary.

Are there opportunities for shopping and purchasing local crafts?

Yes, there will be time for shopping in areas like Hoi An, known for tailor-made clothing, and Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where you can find local crafts.

Are gratuities for guides and drivers included?

Gratuities are not included but are appreciated for good service.

Will I have free time to explore on my own?

Yes, there’s free time scheduled in various cities, such as Hoi An (Day 11)and Quy Nhon (Day 13), for you to relax or explore independently.

How can I stay connected (internet and mobile) during the tour?

Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, and many cafés and public places offer free Wi-Fi. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for data if you need frequent connectivity.