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From US$1584/person

Soul of Vietnam: From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

14 daysHa Noi › Ninh Binh › Halong Bay › Hue › Danang › Hoian › Ho Chi Minh City › Mekong DeltaClassic Tour

This Trip At a Glance

Spend 14 days in Vietnam discovering Hanoi’s vibrant streets, the emerald waters of Halong Bay, the imperial charm of Hue, and the lantern-lit beauty of Hoi An. Along the way, explore ancient temples, scenic countryside, and local life, from cruising the Mekong Delta to uncovering history in Cu Chi. With everything arranged by Seni World, you can simply relax and enjoy each unforgettable moment.

What Makes This Trip Special

  • Discover Hanoi’s cultural heart with visits to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and vibrant Old Quarter
  • Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and drift through magical caves and limestone peaks on a boat trip in Tam Coc
  • Cruise through the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay, kayak among limestone islets, and spend the night aboard a scenic cruise
  • Practice Tai Chi at sunrise on deck and explore the tranquil Dark and Light Cave by kayak or bamboo boat
  • Step back in time in Hue with visits to the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the poetic tombs of Emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh
  • Journey along the coastal Hai Van Pass, visit the towering Lady Buddha at Linh Ung Pagoda, and climb Marble Mountain for panoramic views
  • Experience the charm of Cam Thanh Coconut Village and walk through lantern-lit streets in Hoi An Ancient Town
  • Soak in Hoi An’s laid-back vibe with free days to visit beaches, markets, or tailor shops at your own pace
  • Ride Southeast Asia’s longest cable car to Ba Na Hills, stroll the iconic Golden Bridge, and play in the French Village and Fantasy Park
  • Visit key Ho Chi Minh landmarks like the War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace, Central Post Office, and Ben Thanh Market
  • Cruise the Mekong Delta’s canals in Ben Tre, explore coconut workshops, and ride a tuk-tuk through peaceful villages
  • Crawl through the historic Cu Chi Tunnels and learn how locals lived and fought during wartime

Detailed Itinerary

1
Welcome to Hanoi! Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, our local driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. Your room will be available from 2:00 PM onwards. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
2
You’ll begin the day with an outside visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where your guide will share stories about the revered leader who spearheaded Vietnam’s independence from French rule. From there, take a short walk through the surrounding grounds to see the One Pillar Pagoda and the Presidential Palace. Your morning continues at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. Built nearly a thousand years ago, this peaceful site honors the teachings of Confucius through its courtyards and elegant traditional architecture. In the afternoon, you’ll head to Hoa Lo Prison, famously nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton” by American POWs. This historic site, originally built by the French, holds powerful reminders of Vietnam’s colonial and wartime history. Next, hop on a cyclo for a leisurely ride through the bustling Old Quarter. Each of the 36 streets here is known for a specific trade—some, like Tin and Bamboo Streets, still keep these traditions alive. Your walking tour ends at Ngoc Son Temple, set on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake. Here, you’ll hear the legend of a magic sword, a heroic emperor, and a mythical turtle that gave the lake its name. Meals are at your own arrangement. Overnight at your hotel.
3
At 08:00 AM, your day starts as our car and guide picks you up from your hotel in Hanoi. After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive in Ninh Binh around 10:30 AM to explore Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s first capital. You’ll visit the ancient temples of King Dinh and King Le and learn about the country’s early dynasties while taking in the peaceful valley of Truong Yen. By 11:30 AM, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant (expenses on your own). Then at 01:00 PM, embark on a boat trip through Tam Coc, drifting through three magical caves—Ca, Hai, and Ba—and stopping to visit Thai Vi Temple, dedicated to national hero Tran Hung Dao. At 03:00 PM, continue to Bich Dong Pagoda, surrounded by lotus ponds and limestone cliffs. After climbing to the top for panoramic views, you’ll return to Hanoi at 04:00 PM and arrive back at your hotel around 06:30 – 07:00 PM. Dinner is on your own.
4
At 08:30 AM, our driver (without a guide) will pick you up at your hotel for a scenic 2.5-hour drive along the new expressway to Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam’s most stunning natural wonders, recognized by UNESCO for its 3,000 towering limestone islands rising from emerald waters. By 11:30 – 12:00 PM, you’ll arrive at Tuan Chau Harbor and check in at the waiting lounge. Around 12:00 -12:30 PM, board the tender to Verdure Lotus Cruise, where you’ll be welcomed with a refreshing drink and given a safety briefing by the captain and crew. At 01:00 PM, enjoy a freshly prepared Vietnamese seafood and vegetarian lunch as the cruise glides through the majestic scenery of Halong and Lan Ha Bay. Around 03:00 PM, you can choose to relax on the sundeck or paddle a kayak through the tranquil waters of Ba Trai Dao or Tra Bau. Return to the cruise by 05:30 PM for a fun cooking class and Happy Hour as the sun sets. Dinner will be served at 07:00 PM, followed by free time to go squid fishing, sip wine at the bar, or simply enjoy the peaceful night on deck. Overnight on board.
5
Start your morning early with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck from 06:00 to 06:30 AM as the sun rises over the bay. From 06:15 to 07:00 AM, enjoy breakfast with tea or coffee while admiring the quiet beauty of Lan Ha Bay. At 07:00 AM, head to the Dark and Light Cave area. Here, you can explore the calm waters by kayak or bamboo boat, or take a dip in the refreshing turquoise sea. By 09:30 AM, return to your cabin for some rest and make sure to pack all your belongings. At 10:00 AM, check out of your cabin and enjoy one last scenic cruise through the bay as lunch is served in the restaurant. Around 11:00 AM, take the tender boat back to Tuan Chau Port, where our driver (without a guide) will be waiting to transfer you to the airport for your flight to Hue. Upon arrival in Hue, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our local guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Overnight in Hue.
6
After breakfast, you’ll begin your day by exploring the rich architectural heritage of Hue. Start with a visit to the Imperial Citadel, where you’ll walk through historical landmarks such as the Flag Tower, Ngo Mon Gate, Nine Dynastic Urns, Thai Hoa Palace, and the Forbidden Purple City (Tu Cam Thanh). Later, board a boat for a peaceful cruise along the Perfume River. As you drift past green banks and ancient temples, stop to visit Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s oldest and most picturesque religious sites, beautifully nestled between the river and a pine forest. After lunch, the afternoon continues with a visit to the majestic tomb of King Tu Duc. You’ll then explore King Khai Dinh’s tomb, a unique fusion of Vietnamese tradition and French-influenced architecture. Return to your hotel and spend the night in Hue.
7
After breakfast and hotel check-out, you’ll begin a scenic 3-hour drive along one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking coastal routes to Hoi An. On the way, stop at Hai Van Pass to admire sweeping views of white-sand beaches, turquoise sea, and lush green mountains. Upon arrival in Da Nang, enjoy lunch at your own expense before heading to Linh Ung Pagoda on the Son Tra Peninsula. This impressive site is home to Vietnam’s tallest Lady Buddha statue and features a blend of traditional and modern architecture, with dragon-carved roofs and ornate columns. Next, explore Marble Mountain, where ancient cave pagodas, Buddhist shrines, and a traditional stone-carving village await. Climb Mt. Thuy for panoramic views of Da Nang’s coastline and the surrounding peaks. Later in the day, continue your journey to Hoi An. Check into your hotel and relax in the evening. Overnight in Hoi An.
8
After breakfast, you’ll take a peaceful boat ride to Cam Thanh Village, known as the capital of coconuts. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the daily routines of local fishermen and explore the traditions of this close-knit riverside community. Later, dive into the charm of Hoi An Ancient Town. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Chinese assembly halls, the historic Phung Hung House, the bustling Hoi An Market, and the old trading port that once welcomed merchants from around the world. If your visit falls on the 1st or 15th of the lunar month, you’ll see the town glow under hundreds of colorful lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. Return to your hotel afterward. The afternoon is yours to relax or explore at your own pace. Overnight in Hoi An.
9
Our guide and driver will meet you in your hotel lobby and take you to Ba Na Hills. Begin your adventure with a ride on Southeast Asia’s most modern cable car system. As you ascend, enjoy breathtaking views over Da Nang’s coastline and lush mountains. Your first stop is the famous Golden Bridge, a surreal walkway held by two giant stone hands, followed by a visit to Le Jardin D’Amour, a collection of nine themed gardens, and the peaceful Linh Ung Pagoda. Next, board the second cable car to reach the French Village, where lively street music, striking art statues, ancient shrines, and fun performances await. After exploring, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, dive into the excitement at Fantasy Park. Wander through the Fairy Forest, explore Dinosaur Park, take on thrilling 4D and 5D rides, brave the Freefall Tower, and journey into the underground or Jurassic world for fun and adventure. When your visit concludes, return by cable car and relax as your guide and driver bring you back to your hotel. Note: Entrance to the Wax Museum, French Wine Cellar (including wine), Roller Coaster, Climbing Game, prize-winning games, and the 10D movie are not included and are optional extras.
10
After breakfast, you can enjoy a relaxing morning at your own pace. You might want to unwind by the hotel pool or take a gentle walk around town and savor a local coffee. At noon, our driver will pick you up and transfer you to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, our friendly guide will welcome you and escort you to your hotel in the city center for check-in. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
11
In the morning, begin your city tour with a visit to the War Remnants Museum, offering a powerful and thought-provoking glimpse into the American War through the eyes of the Vietnamese. Continue to the Independence Palace (also known as the Reunification Palace), a landmark of modern Vietnamese history, designed by renowned architect Ngo Viet Thu and built on the site of the former Norodom Palace. Then, admire the French colonial charm of the Notre Dame Cathedral (outside only). Lunch is at your own expense. In the afternoon, you can explore the historic Central Post Office, another stunning example of colonial architecture, and take time to browse through Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs or local treats. After the tour, return to your hotel and enjoy some time relaxing. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
12
Begin your day with pickup from Ben Tre Pier or Chet Say Pier, just 5 km from the town center. Hop on a boat and cruise along the Ben Tre River, one of the tributaries of the Mekong, where lush mangrove trees line the shore. As you glide past the bustling riverside market, witness local life unfold on the water—fishing boats and coconut-laden cargo vessels navigating the busy waterway. Your journey continues to a traditional brick-making site, where bricks are still crafted by hand. From there, turn onto the Cai Son canal and wind through dense coconut groves. Visit a coconut workshop to see each stage of processing done by hand, then stop at a local candy-making house to watch coconut sweets being prepared. Taste the fresh candies, enjoy tropical fruits, and relax with traditional folk music. Disembark for a short walk to a local family making sleep mats, then hop on a tuk-tuk to explore the peaceful countryside of Nhon Thanh and Thuan Dien villages. Enjoy a tranquil rowboat ride through the shaded canals of Cai Tac before stopping at a riverside restaurant for lunch. After your meal, return by boat to Chet Say Pier. Your guide and driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight in HCMC.
13
After breakfast, check out of your hotel. Our guide and driver will meet you in the lobby and take you on a 1.5-hour drive to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. Once you arrive, start with a brief introduction and a short documentary that reveals how the tunnels were built and how people survived in such harsh wartime conditions. Then, explore the underground network—complete with kitchens, sleeping quarters, storage rooms, weapon workshops, field hospitals, and command centers. You’ll also learn about the many hidden trapdoors and clever defensive systems used during the war. Before leaving, enjoy a simple wartime snack of cassava and tea. You’ll also have free time to relax or try your hand at the shooting range (optional). After the visit, return to Ho Chi Minh City and head to the airport for your flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival, our driver (without a guide) will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Overnight in Hanoi.
14
After breakfast, feel free to relax or explore at your own pace. The hotel room is available for your use until 12:00 PM. At 03:00 PM, our driver (no guide) will pick you up and transfer you to the airport for your flight home. Enjoy the final moments of your trip at your leisure. Meals are on your own.

From

US$1584