This journey leads you through some of Vietnam’s most iconic highlights: the timeless charm of Hanoi, the tranquil karst landscapes of Lan Ha Bay, the lantern-lit lanes of Hoi An, and the imperial grandeur of Hue. Your trip concludes with the vibrant pace of Ho Chi Minh City and the peaceful waterways of the Mekong Delta. Designed as a self-guided adventure, it allows you to explore Vietnam at your own rhythm while enjoying a seamless arrangement of hotels, domestic flights, transfers, a cruise on Lan Ha Bay, and an excursion into the Mekong Delta. You are free to choose what to visit and to follow your interests as you encounter Vietnam's unmissable sites.
Activity location
Noi Bai International Airport
Noi Bai, Ha Noi, Vietnam
Meeting/Redemption Point
Noi Bai International Airport
Noi Bai, Ha Noi, Vietnam
Check availability
Essential Vietnam 10 Day Private Tour at Your Own Pace
Cooking class: Halong (on board) - cooking demonstration
Inclusions
Cruise: Sena Cruise - 2D1N
Inclusions
Transfer to Ben Tre and Halong Bay
Inclusions
Kayak: Halong
Inclusions
Boat: Halong bamboo boat, Ben Tre
Inclusions
English speaking tour guide following itinerary
Inclusions
Service charges and Taxes
Inclusions
Airport pick-up and drop-off
Inclusions
All entrance fees and tickets mention on itinerary
Exclusions
International flight from/to your country
Exclusions
Travel insurance
Exclusions
Personal expenses
Exclusions
Tipping and Service charge
Exclusions
Other not mentioned in the programme
Know before you book
Public transport options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialised infant seats are available
Not recommended for travellers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travellers
Not recommended for travellers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Activity itinerary
Day 1: Hanoi (Arrival in Hanoi, airport pick-up and transfer to your hotel)
2 stops
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Overnight at Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room)
Noi Bai International Airport
45m
Admission ticket included
Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be greeted by our guide and driver at the pickup lobby. You’ll then enjoy a 45-minute drive to the heart of Hanoi, passing over the Red River, where you can catch a glimpse of the city’s unique architecture and its famously bustling traffic.
Old Quarter
5h
Admission ticket included
The rest of the day is free at your leisure. Lunch and dinner are at your own expense. Overnight stay in Hanoi.
Note: Hotel check-in time is from 2:00 PM. Early check-in is subject to availability and may incur an additional charge.
Day 2: Hanoi (Free day to explore Hanoi at your own pace)
5 stops
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Overnight at Conifer Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room)
Temple of Literature & National University
1h
Admission ticket not included
Wander through the peaceful gardens, admire Khue Van Cac, and explore Vietnam’s first national university with its UNESCO-recognized stone steles.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
2h
Admission ticket not included
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays): A fascinating look into the country’s diverse ethnic cultures, featuring traditional houses, costumes, and daily-life artefacts.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
1h
Admission ticket not included
(Outside only): Stroll through tree-lined boulevards, see the Mausoleum from the outside, then continue to the Presidential Palace area, Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house and the One Pillar Pagoda.
Old Quarter
3h
Admission ticket not included
Relax in a traditional café and enjoy this creamy Hanoi speciality born in the colonial era.
Explore the 36 historic streets, bustling markets, temples and iconic tube houses. Walking is the best way to feel the district’s vibrant rhythm.
Thang Long Water Puppet
1h
Admission ticket not included
Water puppet show: In the evening, you can enjoy the water puppet show that is the unique performances, first appeared in the 11th century. In these shows, the daily life, culture and belief of Vietnamese people are described by puppets on water.
Lunch and dinner are at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 3: Hanoi - Lan Ha Bay (Transfer to Ha Long, cruise Lan Ha Bay, explore Dark & Bright Cave, and swim)
5 stops
Meals: breakfast, lunch, snacks
Accommodation: Overnight at Sena Cruise - 2D1N (Deluxe Balcony Cabin)
Halong Bay
3h
8:00 - 8:30: The driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi, and from there, we’ll begin our journey to Halong City with a scenic drive through the Red River Delta. The trip takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, with an optional stop along the way for a short break.
Tuan Chau Island
1h
11:30 – 12:00: Arrive at Tuan Chau Harbour.
12:00 – 12:30: Board a tender to transfer to the main vessel. Welcome aboard Sena Cruise! Enjoy a refreshing welcome drink as our Cruise Manager gives a safety briefing and a short introduction to the cruise programme. Afterwards, check into your cabin and settle in.
Lan Ha Bay
3h
Admission ticket included
13:15 – 13:45: Lunch is served while Sena Cruise begins its journey into the breathtaking Lan Ha Bay—an extension of Ha Long Bay, known for its tranquility and fewer visitors. Along the way, admire iconic formations such as Finger Islet and Candle Islet, as well as countless limestone karsts and islands.
Dark and Bright Cave
2h
Admission ticket included
15:00: Explore the serene Dark and Bright Cave, renowned for its untouched natural beauty and poetic landscape. Take stunning photos of this romantic area or enjoy a relaxing bamboo boat ride. You may also swim in the calm, emerald waters—a perfect way to experience the hidden charm of Lan Ha Bay.
Lan Ha Bay
5h
Admission ticket included
17:00: Return to the cruise. Join a sunset party on the deck—an ideal moment for photographers to capture the golden hour over the bay. Participate in a Vietnamese cooking class and learn how to make traditional spring rolls.
Our captain will anchor the boat in a peaceful area for the night.
19:00: Enjoy a delicious dinner in the onboard restaurant. Afterwards, unwind with your choice of activities: Chat at the bar or enjoy a film in the restaurant; Treat yourself to a spa session (*); Sip cocktails at the panoramic bar (*); Try your hand at squid fishing with our prepared rods and lighting.
Overnight onboard in Lan Ha Bay.
(*) Additional charges apply for some services—please book with the cruise team directly.
Day 4: Lan Ha Bay - Hoi An (Start with Tai Chi, explore Tra Bau, return to Hanoi, then fly to Da Nang and transfer to Hoi An)
5 stops
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room)
Lan Ha Bay
2h
Admission ticket included
06:00: Start your day early with a sunrise photo opportunity and join our Tai Chi session on the sundeck to rejuvenate your body and mind.
07:00: The Sena Cruise sails through more majestic karst formations. Enjoy tea, coffee, and a light breakfast in the fresh morning air.
Lang chai Tra Bau
2h
Admission ticket included
08:15: Experience kayaking and swimming in the peaceful waters of Tra Bau, one of the filming locations for Kong: Skull Island (2018). Discover hidden corners and soak up the serene atmosphere.
09:30: Return to the boat and check out of your cabin.
Lan Ha Bay
3h
Admission ticket included
10:00: While enjoying a set-menu early light lunch, Sena Cruise gently sails back towards the harbour, passing by a panorama of limestone cliffs.
11:30 – 11:45: Arrive at the harbour, disembark, and farewell to the crew.
Noi Bai International Airport
4h
Admission ticket included
The cruise shuttle bus driver meets you at the Cruise Waiting Lounge and transfers you back to Hanoi. You are dropped off in the Old Quarter, where your private driver choices you up for the onward transfer to Noi Bai Airport.
Danang International Airport
2h
Admission ticket included
Take a short flight to Da Nang City.
Upon your arrival at Da Nang airport, our local driver will greet you and transfer you to your accommodation in Hoi An, a journey of approximately 1 hour.
Dinner is at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 5: Hoi An (Free day to explore Hoi An at your own pace. Below are suggested activities if you’d like some inspiration)
3 stops
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Overnight at Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room)
Cam Thanh
1h
Basket Boat Experience: Visit to Cam Thanh village, known for its peaceful waterways and centuries-old nipa palm forests. Here, you can enjoy a relaxing ride in a traditional bamboo basket boat and try simple crab fishing — a light, fun activity close to nature.
Hoi An Ancient Town
3h
Admission ticket not included
Hoi An Ancient Town: Wander the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town at your own pace. You may visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, old merchant houses, temples, and the vibrant local market.
Hoi An
3h
Tailor-made clothing: Hoi An is also one of the best places in Vietnam for tailor-made clothing, with skilled tailors offering high-quality garments often completed within 24 hours.
Lunch: You may like to try Cao lau — a regional speciality with thick noodles, pork slices, crispy croutons, and fresh herbs found only in Hoi An — or Mi Quang, turmeric noodles topped with pork, shrimp, herbs, and a light, fragrant broth.
Lunch and dinner are at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 6: Hoi An - Hue (Transfer to Hue and enjoy the afternoon at your own pace)
3 stops
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Overnight at Hue Serene Palace Hotel (Junior Room)
Hue
4h
8:30: Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in the heart of Hoi An. From there, we’ll head to Hue, passing through Da Nang. The journey takes about 3-4 hours, taking you along some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in central Vietnam, including My Khe Beach, fishing villages, the Hai Van Pass, and Lang Co Lagoon.
Upon arrival in Hue, you are dropped off at your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the city at your own pace.
Hue Imperial City (The Citadel)
2h
Admission ticket not included
The Imperial Citadel: Discover Hue’s former imperial capital, designed with Vauban-style defensive architecture. Key highlights include the Flag Tower, the South Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, ancestral temples, and the surviving halls of the Forbidden City.
Dong Ba Market
2h
Dong Ba Market: Stroll through bustling aisles filled with fresh produce, local snacks, conical hats, and traditional handicrafts - a lively window into everyday life in Hue.
Lunch and dinner are at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Hue.
Day 7: Hue - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (Enjoy the morning at your own pace and take a flight to Ho Chi Minh city)
4 stops
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Overnight at Sanouva Hotel (Premium Deluxe Double Room)
Thien Mu Pagoda
1h
Admission ticket not included
One of Hue’s oldest spiritual landmarks, founded in 1601. Its distinctive octagonal tower and sweeping views over the Perfume River make it an inspiring place to understand the spiritual heritage of the former capital.
Tomb of Minh Mang
1h
Admission ticket not included
An architectural masterpiece that harmoniously blends imperial design with serene natural landscapes. Initiated during Emperor Minh Mang’s reign (1820–1840) and completed by Emperor Thieu Tri, the complex showcases the refined craftsmanship of thousands of artisans of the Nguyen era.
Thủy Biều - Hoa Màu
1h
Admission ticket not included
A peaceful riverside village known for its fragrant pomelo gardens. You can opt for an easy bicycle ride through shaded lanes, stopping at ancestral temples, century-old garden houses, and small vegetable plots tended by local families.
Tan Son Nhat International Airport
2h
Admission ticket included
Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, our local driver will greet you at the pickup area and transfer you to your hotel in the city.
Lunch and dinner are at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.
Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (Enjoy a free day to explore Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace)
4 stops
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Overnight at Sanouva Hotel (Premium Deluxe Double Room)
The Independence Palace
2h
Admission ticket not included
Former residence and workplace of the South Vietnamese presidents, featuring preserved 1960s–1970s interiors and the iconic tank that marked the end of the Vietnam War in 1975.
War Remnants Museum
2h
Admission ticket not included
A powerful museum offering a comprehensive perspective on the Vietnam War through photographs, documents, and thematic exhibitions.
Lunch: Popular options include banh xeo, com tam, or a Southern-style seafood meal — all excellent introductions to Saigon’s vibrant food culture.
Quan Am Pagoda
2h
One of the city’s oldest pagodas, dedicated to Guan Yin and influenced by Taoist traditions. A peaceful stop rich in spiritual atmosphere.
Binh Tay Market
2h
Located in the heart of Chinatown, this bustling wholesale market offers clothing, souvenirs, spices, snacks, and a lively food court where you can sample authentic local dishes.
Lunch and dinner are at your own expense (not included). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.
Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - Ben Tre - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (Cruise Ben Tre & meet Mekong locals)
3 stops
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Sanouva Hotel (Premium Deluxe Double Room)
Ben Tre
3h
8:00: Tour guide and driver welcome you at your hotel for your transfer to Ben Tre, a beautiful region in the Mekong Delta River, famous for making coconut sweets. Arrive at Hung Vuong pier, take a boat trip on Ben Tre River to discover the daily local life.
Nhon Thanh
3h
Continue your boat trip on a canal to Nhon Thanh Village. This will be an opportunity to taste the fresh fruits. Take a bike ride (or Tuk tuk) on a small path through the villages and enjoy views of the coconut ranges, rice fields and vegetable gardens. A lunch of elephant ear fish is served in the village. A short walk will help you to discover the local life in depth. This is followed by a boat ride on the small canal shaded by the wild palm trees.
Ho Chi Minh City
3h
Transfer back to Saigon in the late afternoon.
Dinner is on your own expense (not included). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.
Day 10: Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) (Transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your departure flight)
1 stop
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Not included
Tan Son Nhat International Airport
45m
Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City and take you to Tan Son Nhat Airport.
Note: Hotel check-out time is before 12:00 PM. Late check-out is subject to availability and may incur an additional charge.
Location
Activity location
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Noi Bai International Airport
Noi Bai, Ha Noi, Vietnam
Meeting/Redemption Point
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Noi Bai International Airport
Noi Bai, Ha Noi, Vietnam
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