Vietnam Discovery

Vietnam Discovery
Overview
  • Travel style: Multi - Actives
  • Duration: 16 Days
  • Start from: Hanoi
  • End at: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
  • Visit: Hanoi - Sapa - Ninh Binh - Lan Ha Bay - Hue - Danang - Cu Chi Tunnel - Ben Tre - Can Tho - Chau Doc - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Highlights

The 16-day Vietnam Discovery itinerary invites you on an exciting and supprising journey through this beautiful country. Experience authentic local culture, admire the extraordinary natural landscapes, and savor its diverse and delicious cuisine. Each day is thoughtfully designed to offer memorable moments that will stay with you long after your journey.

  • Thousands of year Hanoi capital
  • Mountant escape to Sapa with rich minorities culture and Fansipan Peak
  • Peaceful land Ninh Binh
  • Overnight cruise on Lan Ha Bay
  • Hue Royal capital
  • Hoi An Ancient town
  • Cu Chi tunnels
  • Typical lifestyle in Mekong Delta
  • Interracting with local
  • Tranquil boat trips
  • Stunning natural beauty
Itinerary Expand All
  • Day 1 : Hanoi Arrival - street food tour

    Welcome you to Hanoi - the thousand years old capital of Vietnam.  Upon your arrival at the airport, Asia Life Travel tour guide and private car will warmly welcome you. Transfer to your hotel for check in.

    After take a rest, meet our foodie guide again for a street food tour of Hanoi. Eat as you go, we first stop at the renowned Hang Be Market, pick up some seasonal tropical fruits.

    Escape the bustling streets and relax in a hidden café, join in a mini show of making the famous Egg Coffee, praised by former President Barack Obama as "irresistibly delicious."

    Next, satisfy your taste buds with the well-known Bun Cha, (BBQ pork noodle) accompanied by crispy deep-fried spring rolls. Your local guide will share cultural stories and insights into daily life of local.

    Walking is the best way to eat better with food options at every corner. Don’t miss the chance to grab a "Banh Mi," a delightful fusion of flavors from East and West.

    Wander through the maze of lively streets and try the famed Hanoi dish "banh cuon" at a local family.

    Finally, refresh your-self with a cup of "Bia Hoi" (light Vietnamese draft beer) while mingling with locals. If you prefer something sweeter, a coconut ice cream or fresh fruit yogurt awaits!

    At the end of foodie tour, you are free to continue exploring the city, or your guide will assist you back to your hotel.

    Note: Standard hotel check-in time is 2:00 PM. Early check-in is subject to availability.
  • Day 2 : Hanoi City Tour

    Start at 08:30AM for a full-day exploration of Hanoi. First visit the renowned Temple of Literature and the Quoc Tu Giam—Vietnam's first university, was founded within the temple to educate the royal family, mandarins, and elite members for an impressive 800 years.

    Afterward, you can choose between museum options (to be decided on the tour day):

    Option 1:Vietnam Women’s Museum. This highly regarded museum showcases the rich cultural diversity of Vietnam and highlights the vital role women play in society.

    Option 2:Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays). A must-visit for those interested in Vietnam's cultural diversity, this museum features a vast array of interactive exhibits representing the 54 ethnic groups of the country.

    Option 3: Hoa Lo Museum - The "POWS" Known as the "Hanoi Hilton", this historic site was built by the French and served during both the French colonial period and the Vietnam War. It offers documentaries of Vietnamese history in 20-21 centuaries. 

    Following your museum visit, enjoy your lunch.

    Once refreshed, head to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex. This fascinating site involves considerable walking, so be prepared (note that the Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays, as well as every afternoon and annually from June 12th to August 14th).

    Continue on foot past the Mausoleum (viewed from the outside) to learn about the life and legacy of the nation’s founder. Then, visit the Presidental Palace and the 'house on stilts' where 'Bac Ho' lived from 1958 to 1969 (closed on Mondays and Fridays). Take a leisurely stroll through the peaceful botanical garden, concluding at the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique symbol of Hanoi built in 1049.

    Then enjoy some coffee at Train Street. The century-old train tracks that run through the heart of Hanoi’s Old Town have recently transformed into an intriguing attraction known as Hanoi Train Street, especially popular among travelers and foreigners. Sitting at a café adjacent to the railway and observing the daily lives of local residents can be somewhat risky, yet it continues to draw many curious visitors eager for the experience.
    In the mid to late afternoon, explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This labyrinth of alleyways is filled with hidden gems, offering a glimpse into local life in the ‘36 guilds’ as you navigate the bustling streets.

    After this captivating introduction to Hanoi’s highlights, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel.

    Note: When visiting pagodas and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, please ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered.
  • Day 3 : Hanoi - Drive to Sapa: Heaven Gate and Silver waterfall

    After breakfast, your tour guide and driver will pick you up for a scenic drive through peaceful villages and cinnamon plantations along the Red River, (approximately 5 hours).

    Upon arriving in Lao Cai city, visit the bustling border gate with China. Enjoy lunch or a cup of coffee.

    Continue drive uphill to Sapa, admird the first beautiful views of rice terraces after every turns. Visit Silver waterfall, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. 
    If the weather permits, take a gentle hike to the top of Heaven's Gate, nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, for stunning views, including Fansipan Peak.

    Return to Sapa, check in to your hotel then take a leisurely walk with your guide around town to enjoy the evening in this charming mountain destination.

  • Day 4 : Sapa Trekking and encounter with minoroties people

    Depart from Sapa at 8:30 for the best chance of clear weather for stunning photos and views. Begin your full day of trekking from Y Linh Ho village. Follow the downhill path, we have the chance to interact with friendly H’mong women and children living in the valley. Take a moment to relax on the cable bridge, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

    For those seeking adventure, consider the uphill trek along the buffalo path, which offers breathtaking views and less tourists. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, enjoy a stroll along the Muong Hoa River down to the Lao Chai Bridge.

    Upon arriving at Lao Chai village, cross the rice fields to a small hamlet for a special visit with a Hmong craftsman, who uses beeswax for decoration to create unique Hmong indigo clothing. A great way to learn about their daily life and culture.

    Continue to visit Ta Van village, home to the Dzay people, located on a hillside with stunning views of the Muong Hoa River, rice terraces, and the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then stroll around the village to meet the locals.

    You can choose to stay at a homestay, join in a cooking class and enjoy dinner with your host, or return to your hotel in Sapa for a comfortable stay.

  • Day 5 : Conquer the Fansipan Peak by cable car - Hanoi

    Check out of your hotel after breakfast. Your tour guide will escort you to Fansipan Sun World for the experience the beauty of Sapa in the most luxurious fashion.

    Conquer the peak of Indochina by taking the world’s longest non-stop three-rope cable car, spanning 6,292.5 meters. This is a lifetime opportunity to gaze upon the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range and Muong Hoa Valley while enjoying breathtaking natural landscapes. The stunning views will create unforgettable memories for all who witness them.

    Take a break to visit the Buddhist complex before choosing to either take a mountain train or hike 500 steps uphill to leave your mark on the Peak of Indochina, standing at 4,143 meters high. On your way back, you may want a hot drink at a café located 3,000 meters above sea level.

    Meet your driver again then travel back to Hanoi. Arrival to your hotel in the late afternoon. 

  • Day 6 : Enchanting Ninh Binh ancient capital

    Pick up at your hotel by private car and tour guide for 2 hour drive to Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam from the 10 to the 11 century. On arrival, visit the temples dedicated to the Kings of Dinh Dynasty (968-980) and the Le Dynasty (980-1009) who played a vital role in gaining the country’s independence from Chiness for a thousand years.

    Transfer to Tam Coc which has been appeared in the famous movie "King Kong. You will enjoy a relaxing sampan boat which is gently rowed by local people along the Ngo Dong River. Pass through three caves and witness a stunning landscape interleaved by small communities, rice fields, cemetery and temples.

    Have a break for lunch before set a lightly hike to visit Bich Dong, a typical pagoda in the countryside of the Red River Delta, built in the 15 century. You not only have the chance to learn about Buddhism but also get to experience incredible countryside views. 

    Stay overnight in Ninh Binh

  • Day 7 : Ninh Binh - Lan Ha Bay

    7:30 AM: Depart from your hotel for a comfortable three-hour drive through the scenic Red River Delta.

    Upon arrival, be warmly welcomed to a romantic journey to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Start by transfer boat through Ha Long Bay with thousands of islands, we check in our cruise for the less touristic route of Lan Ha Bay. 

    Check in your comfortable private carbin before enjoying a delightful lunch with sea food choices.
    Take some leisure time to admire the breathtaking scenery before setting off afternoon excursions. You can visit the Bright cave, enjoy a relaxing bamboo boat rowed by fishman or try hands on kayaking. It is possible for swimming after this activity
    As the sun sets, participate in a cooking class while the bar's Happy Hour is opened, the perfect view of Lan Ha Bay.

    The fine dining experience for dinner, featuring a delectable tasting menu, promises to create unforgettable moments.

    Afterward, relish a starry night on the bay from the top deck with your favorite drink. You can also try your luck at squid fishing.

    Note: Cruises' departure time is from 11:30-12:00 at noon. Program activities may change depending on weather conditions and selected cruise.
  • Day 8 : Lan Ha Bay - Flight to Hue ancient capital

    Start your day early with a Tai Chi session on sun deck, breathing in the fresh air, and witness the sunrise over the bay.

    Enjoy a light breakfast complemented by a good cup of coffee or tea, preparing for a new-day adventure exploring the bay's rocky islands and natural beauty by kayaking. The best way to bring you closer to amazing limestone islands.   

    Afterward, return to the cruise to complete the check-out process. Savor a delightful brunch at the restaurant while cruising back to the harbor. 

    Your private vehicle transfers you back to Hanoi for domestic flight to Hue, the Royal capital of Vietnam. Upon your arrival at Phu Bai Airport, take a short transfer to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore the romantic city on riverside at your leisure.

  • Day 9 : Discover Royal's heritages

    At 8:00 AM, your tour guide and driver will meet you at the hotel to begin your day. 
    Travel through the scenic old capital to the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, one of the most beautiful and largest architectural tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty. Next, visit Khai Dinh's Tomb, known for its unique mosaic decorations made from millions of glass and ceramic pieces, while learning about this emperor's life.

    After lunch, explore the Imperial Citadel, a historical complex celebrated for its rich architecture and stunning landscapes. Then, take a short transfer to Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest and largest pagoda in Hue, situated alongside the picturesque Huong River.

    To conclude your day, enjoy a private boat ride along the Perfume River, taking in the scenic views and making a stop at the vibrant Dong Ba Market. 

    Finally, meet your driver for the transfer back to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind.

  • Day 10 : Conquer Hai Van Pass - travel to the charming Hoian ancient town.

    8:00 AM: Relax on your scenic 3 hours drive from Hue via the sturnning beach of Danang to the ancient town of Hoian. Conquer the legendary 20 km Hai Van Pass, stopping along the way to enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and sea. 

    Upon arrival to Hoian, taking a walking tour to visit this romantic city. This historic town once thrived as a bustling trading port, connecting Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, Indian, and Westernt merchants along the famous Silk Road. Today, Hoi An attract tourists with its ancient town, delicious local cuisine, and coffee culture, along with a variety of shopping and relax accommodation options.

    Your first visit will be the Japanese Covered Bridge, the symbol of the ancient town. Strolling along the Thu Bon River, follow the narrow streets flanked by closely-knit houses, every turn offers fantastic photo opportunities. Have a short excursion to the over 200 years old Tan Ky ancient house, which stands as a evidence to the prosperous development of this port city since the 17th century.

    Continue to visit the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall and Ong Pagoda, must-see sites that reflect the rich Chinese culture and beliefs in Hoi An. Then a short stop at the central market offers a glimpse into the daily lives of locals and is a great chance to pick up some souvenirs.

    Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure but we highly recommend returning to the town at sunset to witness the romantic version of Hoian with colorful lanterns at every corner and the vibrant night market. 

  • Day 11 : Hoian Optinal tour - flight to Ho Chi Minh city

    Today is a free day for you to enjoy as you wish, or you can select from various day trip options: (with additional charge)

    Option 1: Half-day cooking class (private or join in group). 

    You’ll be picked up from your hotel by a culinary introducter to explore the local wet market. Engage with vendors and discover the ingredients that will be used in your upcoming cooking lesson.

    After a short walk to the cooking class, join in a brief discussion about the art of Hoi An's gastronomy, including its vegetables, herbs, and spices. The chef will reveal their secrets for making each dish truly delicious. Prepare and cook dish by dish then enjoy a delightful meal at the end of the lesson.

    Option 2: Half-Day Cycling Tour to Tra Que Vegetable Village and Basket Boat Experience (private or join in group).

    Tour guide will pick you up at your hotel on a bicycle for a journey into the serene countryside of Hoi An. Begin with a visit to hundred years old Tra Que Organic Vegetable Village. Get hands-on experience with traditional farming techniques alongside friendly farmers who have preserved these practices for generations.

    Cycle through lush rice fields and shrimp farms, and explore the Cam Thanh Coconut Forest. Hop on a typical basket boat of local fishment, navigating the small, shaded creeks for a truly unforgettable experience.

    Afterward, return to the bike trail leading back to your hotel. 

    Option 3: Cable car to Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge

    At 8:30 AM, your tour guide and driver will pick you up from hotel for a scenic drive to the Ba Na Hills complex, situated at an altitude of over 1,400 meters. This area was originally developed by the French as a mountain resort in central Vietnam.

    Hop on the world’s longest single-cable car with stunning views of Ba Na national park and an idealy for a panoramic view of Da Nang city. Spend your time to take photos at the famous Golden Bridge hold by giant hands, celebrated by numerous architectural magazines.

    Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the flower garden, visit Bana Linh Ung Pagoda with its impressive giant Buddha statue, and explore the charming French village with its unique architectural styles

    Option 4: Explore My Son Holy land 

    At 8:00 AM, your tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel to explore My Son Holy Land.

    The enchanting red towers of My Son will captivate you with their unique architecture and rich history. This site was the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom from the 2nd to the 13th centuries, making it an ideal destination for architecture and history enthusiasts.

    In the afternoon, pick up from your hotel or after fisnish excursion for transfer to Danang airport to take flight to Ho Chi Minh city - the most vibrant and populous metropolis.
    Upon arrival, your guide and driver will escort you to your hotel for check-in.

  • Day 12 : Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels - halfday city tour

    Asia Life Travel private car and tour guide will pick you up from your hotel for a two-hour drive to the outskirts of Saigon. The lush Cu Chi area, known for its vegetable and rubber plantations, was once home to a network of tunnels—over 200 kilometers — built by locals who lived and fought valiantly during the French and Vietnam War.

    When arrival, you will walk through the forest with your guide, he will share stories that reveal the history importance of the Cu Chi Tunnels. You'll have the unique opportunity to venture inside the narrow tunnels and learn about the courageous lives of the locals, who utilized primitive yet innovative weapons in their struggle.

    Experience a vivid recreation of daily life during the war, including living ares, kitchens, field hospital, weapons factories, command bunkers, and combat zones. A short documentary will also provide an insightful overview of this famous destination. 

    After your tour, relax on the way back to city center for a visiting highlights of Ho Chi Minh City.  We first visit the War Remnants Museum, an essential stop for those interested in the heroic yet brutal Vietnam War. You also can spend time at Nguyen Hue Walking Street to see the morden style of the Vietnam's biggest financial city.  If you are a local shopping enthusiast ,Ben Thanh Market, where a variety of local goods await.

    Finally, we will escort you back to hotel for some relaxation, or you may choose to continue your exploration of the city at your own pace.

  • Day 13 : Ben Tre - The Kingdom of coconut

    Depart from Ho Chi Minh City, drive 2 hour to Ben Tre - the coconut kingdom, located in the heart of the lush Mekong Delta. 
    Meet your friendly local boatman to start a typical boat trip on the intricate river system. Visit a coconut workshop with many stages from selecting, separating coconut meat, making coconut oil and burning coconut charcoal... 
    Follow the flow of the sightseeing journey on winding canels by boat before have a rest at a riverside coffee, enjoy tropical fruits and try making products such as coconut candy, souvenirs from coconut shells. 
    You will be continue with local guide on his tuktuk ride through the lush green gardens or leisurely cycling. Great opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their daily lives.
    Enjoy lunch at local restaurant while soak in the natural beauty and fresh air.
    After a wonderful blending of relaxation, culture, and adventure day, we meet our driver again for a relaxing drive to your hotel in Can Tho. Free to explore the city on riverside. 

  • Day 14 : Explore Cai Rang Floating market and Tra Su forest

    We start early today, departing at 6:00 AM to witness the Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest and most vibrant market on the Mekong Delta. Your driver and guide will take you from the hotel to the pier to embark on a scenic boat tour through this lively waterway.

    Immerse yourself in the colorful atmosphere as many of sampans (wooden boats) float by, loaded with rice, tropical fruits, vegetables, and handmade goods — all sold directly from the boats in this unique riverside marketplace.

    Enjoy an authentic breakfast on the boat, or choose to return to the hotel for your included breakfast and coffee.

    Optional: If you're interested in the local fishes trade, take a short visit to the bustling An Binh Fish Market before heading back to the hotel.

    Say ferrawel to Can Tho, relax as you travel through the fertile landscapes of the Mekong Delta en route to Chau Doc.

    Upon arrival, explore the remarkable Tra Su Forest, a biodiversity spot known for its rich ecosystem and dense indigo forest. This nature reserve is also a well-known bird sanctuary, home to a wide variety of resident and migratory bird species.

    At the end of the day, check in to your hotel near the Vietnam–Cambodia border.

     

  • Day 15 : Floating Fish farm and Cham's village

    Start your day with a  breakfast at the hotel, then set out to explore Chau Doc, a unique border city known for its floating communities and cultural diversity.

    Hop on a boat and cruise to the confluence of the Chau Giang and Hau Rivers, where you’ll witness the scene of colorful floating houses and traditional fishing practices that define daily life on the water.

    To add on your cultural experience, we’ll visit a nearby Cham village (Chau Phong village), where you’ll learn about the Cham people’s distinct way of life. Discover their ancient weaving techniques, explore local temples, and gain insight into their rich spiritual and cultural traditions.

    After the visit, enjoy a scenic journey through the Mekong Delta, passing through lush rice paddies, national parks, and fruit orchards — a final glimpse of the Delta’s beauty before returning to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon.

    Note: If you wish to continue your journey into Cambodia, a high-speed boat to Phnom Penh is available from Chau Doc at 7:00 AM (advance arrangements required).

  • Day 16 : Ho Chi Minh City Departure

    After enjoying your  breakfast at hotel, it’s time to bid farewell to these unforgettable destinations as you continue your journey or head home with cherished memories of your Vietnam adventure.

    (Cảm ơn và Hẹn gặp lại) Thank you for traveling with us. See you again soon!

Inclusions
  • Service of a private driver and air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Service of an English-speaking guide.
  • Entrance fees for all mentioned sights
  • Bottled drinking water and wet tissue
  • Meals as mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Hotels in Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Hue, Hoian, Ho Chi Minh city
  • Boat trips in Ninh Binh, Hue, Mekong
  • 01 night on cruise Ha Long Bay
  • Domestic flights: Hanoi - Hue, Danang - Ho Chi Minh City

 

Exclusions

• Flights into and out Vietnam.
• Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Tips for tour guide and driver.
• Travel insurance.
• Vietnam Visa.



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What clients say about us?

5.0 / 10Reviews ( Write a review )
  • We booked a trip for two through Asia Life Travel. The travel agent named Nga was professional, kind, flexible and open to changes and planned the trip very well. The...
    Levy Nissim
    Levy Nissim
    Feb 26, 2026
  • We traveled to Vietnam from September 25 to 30 and used Asia Life Travel for our trip. We were extremely happy with their service! The guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and...
    Tim Danmi
    Tim Danmi
    Nov 20, 2025
  • We traveled to Vietnam last summer and used Asia Life Travel. The whole experience was amazing - friendly and smart guides, always quick to respond and help, alongside very punctual...
    Joe Hatch
    Joe Hatch
    Nov 20, 2025
  • We were on a tight schedule from Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay - to the airport.. and we didn't have time to muck about and make timely mistakes..so...
    Andrea Andrea
    Andrea Andrea
    Oct 17, 2025
  • Asia Life Travel made our Vietnam trip truly unforgettable. Sunny, our guide, impressed us with his deep local knowledge and friendly, attentive manner. Nga ensured every detail was perfectly handled...
    June G
    June G
    Oct 6, 2025