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THE ULTIMATE 12-DAY VIETNAM ADVENTURE: A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EXPERIENCE
tour features
| Length | 12 Days |
|---|---|
| Highlights | Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Ha Long Bay Cruise, Ninh Binh’s Limestone Landscapes, Imperial Hue, Lantern-lit Hoi An, Mekong Delta Floating Markets, Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine |
| Key Information | This immersive 12-day journey combines Vietnam’s vibrant cities, stunning natural wonders, and rich history with private guides and exclusive experiences. You’ll travel by luxury transport, stay in boutique hotels, and enjoy hands-on cultural activities across North, Central, and South Vietnam. |
A Grand Passage Through Vietnam’s Timeless Charms
This opulent 12-day itinerary unveils Vietnam as few ever experience it—through private tours, exclusive dining, and curated encounters with its storied culture and landscapes. From the colonial sophistication of Hanoi to the lantern-lit magic of Hoi An, and the serene waters of Ha Long Bay to the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City, each day is a masterfully crafted composition of luxury, discovery, and indulgence. Every detail—from chauffeured transfers to chef-led meals—has been designed to delight the discerning traveler.
From Imperial Grandeur to Hidden Natural Jewels
Hanoi: Vietnam’s vibrant capital where French colonial architecture meets ancient pagodas and modern artistry.
Ha Long Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage site of limestone karsts and emerald waters, experienced aboard a luxury cruise.
Ninh Binh: “Ha Long Bay on land,” where rivers wind through karst formations and ancient capitals.
Hue: The former imperial city offering majestic citadels, royal tombs, and the romantic Perfume River.
Hoi An: A charming riverside town famed for lantern-lit streets, golden beaches, and artisanal heritage.
Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta: A thrilling blend of historical landmarks and lush delta life, capped with rooftop views and riverine elegance.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – The Soul of Vietnam
Upon landing at Noi Bai International Airport, a private chauffeur will greet you and transfer you to a luxury boutique hotel in the Old Quarter such as Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi or La Siesta Premium Hang Be.
After check-in and a short rest, the adventure begins with a cyclo (rickshaw) tour through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where narrow streets buzz with motorbikes, street vendors, and hidden temples. Stop at a local egg coffee café to sample Hanoi’s famous creamy brew before heading to the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake for an evening walk.
For your first dinner in Vietnam, enjoy a chef’s table experience at T.U.N.G Dining, where traditional Vietnamese flavors meet modern gastronomy.
Inclusions:
- Private airport transfer
- Cyclo tour of Old Quarter
- Welcome dinner
Exclusions:
- Personal shopping expenses
- Additional food and drinks
Day 2: Exploring Hanoi’s History & Hidden Corners
The day begins with an exclusive private tour of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you’ll learn about Vietnam’s revolutionary leader. Nearby, visit the One Pillar Pagoda and the historic Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university.
Enjoy a traditional home-cooked lunch with a local family, learning about their daily life and customs.
In the afternoon, explore the secret underground bunkers used during the Vietnam War beneath the Metropole Hotel, an exclusive and often-overlooked experience.
As night falls, watch a Thang Long Water Puppet Show, an ancient Vietnamese art form, before savoring street food favorites like bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) and banh cuon (steamed rice rolls) at a guided food tour.
Inclusions:
- Private historical tour
- Home-cooked lunch experience
- Water puppet show tickets
- Guided street food tour
Exclusions:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal souvenirs
Day 3-4: Ha Long Bay – Overnight Cruise Through a UNESCO Wonder
Leave the city behind and drive to Ha Long Bay, where a luxury 2-day, 1-night cruise awaits. Sail past towering limestone karsts, visit hidden caves, and kayak through emerald lagoons.
Onboard, enjoy sunset cocktails, Vietnamese cooking classes, and squid fishing under the stars. The next morning, wake up to a Tai Chi session on the deck before exploring the lesser-visited Lan Ha Bay, a peaceful alternative to the touristy spots.
After brunch on the cruise, return to Hanoi in the afternoon. Spend the evening at leisure or explore the lively Train Street before preparing for your next adventure.
Inclusions:
- Luxury cruise with full-board meals
- Kayaking and cave exploration
- Onboard activities (cooking class, Tai Chi, squid fishing)
Exclusions:
- Personal spa treatments on the cruise
- Extra drinks onboard
Day 5-6: Ninh Binh – The “Halong Bay on Land”
A private car takes you south to Ninh Binh, where limestone mountains rise dramatically from lush rice paddies. Visit the ancient Hoa Lu Citadel, Vietnam’s first capital, before a boat ride through Tam Coc’s cave system, where locals row with their feet.
Spend the night in a tranquil eco-lodge surrounded by rice fields, perfect for stargazing.
The next morning, hike up Mua Cave viewpoint for panoramic views before heading to the serene Van Long Nature Reserve, where you might spot the rare delacour’s langur monkeys.
Return to Hanoi in the evening for a relaxed dinner before your night train to Central Vietnam.
Inclusions:
- Private car transfer to Ninh Binh
- Boat ride in Tam Coc
- Guided hikes and entrance fees
- Night train ticket to Hue
Exclusions:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Optional cycling tour
Day 7-8: Hue – Imperial Elegance and Perfume River Charm
Arriving in Hue in the morning, check into Azerai La Residence, a colonial-era luxury hotel. Spend the day exploring the Imperial Citadel, Forbidden Purple City, and royal tombs of Nguyen emperors on a guided tour.
Enjoy a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River at sunset before an exclusive dining experience inside a restored Mandarin house, where a royal-style meal is served.
On day 8, explore the countryside by Vespa, stopping at traditional incense villages and the Thien Mu Pagoda before indulging in a private cooking class with a local chef.
Inclusions:
- Imperial Citadel guided tour
- Dragon boat ride on Perfume River
- Vespa countryside tour
- Cooking class
Exclusions:
- Personal purchases
- Spa treatments
Day 9-10: Hoi An – Lanterns, Ancient Streets & Hidden Beaches
A scenic coastal drive over Hai Van Pass takes you to Hoi An, a UNESCO-listed ancient town. Stay in a riverside boutique hotel like Anantara Hoi An.
Spend the afternoon on a private lantern-making workshop, crafting a beautiful keepsake.
On day 10, take a basket boat ride through the coconut groves of Cam Thanh Village, then visit An Bang Beach for an afternoon of relaxation. End the day with a sunset river cruise, sipping local wine as lantern-lit boats float by.
Inclusions:
- Hai Van Pass private transfer
- Lantern-making workshop
- Basket boat experience
- Sunset cruise
Exclusions:
- Beachside spa treatments
- Additional drinks
Day 11-12: Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta – The Grand Finale
Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and dive into its vibrant energy. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels to understand Vietnam’s war history, then explore the colonial architecture of Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office.
Indulge in a rooftop dinner at The Reverie Saigon, overlooking the glittering skyline.
On your final day, take a private boat tour in the Mekong Delta, visiting floating markets, coconut farms, and rice paper workshops. Savor a farewell lunch at a riverside restaurant before heading to the airport.
Inclusions:
- Flight to Ho Chi Minh City
- Cu Chi Tunnels guided tour
- Private Mekong Delta tour
- Farewell lunch
Exclusions:
- Flight tickets home
- Extra snacks and souvenirs
When to Go & What to Expect
Best Time to Visit:
November–April: Ideal weather across Vietnam with clear skies and comfortable temperatures—perfect for cruises and city walks.
May–August: Lush landscapes and vibrant festivals, with occasional tropical showers.
Optional Add-ons:
Private Hot Air Balloon Ride in Hue: $350–$400 per person
Luxury Spa Package in Hoi An: $180–$250 per person
Fine Dining Tasting Menu at The Reverie Saigon: $120–$180 per person
