Grand Sensational Vietnam Tour 20 Days
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Itinerary

Our Grand Sensational Vietnam 20-day itinerary is a meticulously crafted adventure that unveils the very best of this captivating country. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene waters of Halong Bay, from the misty mountains of Sapa to the historic charm of Hue and Hoi An, and from the romantic hills of Dalat to the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, this comprehensive tour offers an immersive experience into Vietnam’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.

Our travel experts designed this Vietnam 20-day itinerary as inspiration. Share your travel preferences and we’ll create a customized tour to match your style. You can also check out our Vietnam package tours for more recommendations.

Highlights:

  • Exploring the cultural tapestry of Hanoi
  • Cruising through the limestone karsts of Halong Bay
  • Trekking in the mountainous region of Sapa
  • Discovering the imperial history of Hue
  • Wandering through the ancient streets of Hoi An
  • Experiencing the European-like atmosphere of Dalat
  • Relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Nha Trang
  • Uncovering the vibrant life of Ho Chi Minh City
  • Delving into the Mekong Delta’s floating markets and lush orchards

Day 01: HANOI ARRIVAL

Arrive at Noi Bai airport. You will be welcomed by our guide. We arrange drivers for you and take you to your hotel in Hanoi. Check-in and have a restful overnight stay at the hotel.

Meal: None
Tour guide: English-speaking guide

hanoi street
Hanoi train coffee

Day 02: HANOI CITY TOUR

Your full-day tour of Hanoi’s highlights begins with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where you’ll explore the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, his humble stilt house, and the nearby Presidential Palace and One Pillar Pagoda. Next, you’ll visit the Temple of Literature, the country’s first national university dating back to the 11th century, where you can learn about the rich academic traditions of Vietnam.

Continuing your cultural immersion, you’ll make your way to a serene lakeside pagoda to gain insights into Buddhist practices. The tour also includes a visit to the renowned Ethnology Museum, which offers a fascinating exploration of Vietnam’s diverse ethnic minority groups and their traditions.

Back in the lively Old Quarter, you’ll have the opportunity to wander through the narrow streets that were once home to specialized craft-making guilds. The streets are still named after the products or locations they were associated with, providing a glimpse into the area’s vibrant history.

For a unique perspective on Hanoi’s bustling energy, you can choose to experience the rush hour culture by taking a ride on a cyclo (a three-wheeled bicycle taxi) through the Old Quarter and French Quarter, immersing yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere.

Before ending the day with a captivating water puppet show, you’ll have the chance to explore local markets like Hang Be or Troi Market. Here, you’ll witness locals shopping for their daily ingredients, offering an insider’s view of Hanoi’s true character, away from the typical tourist spots.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Tour guide: English speaking guide

Hanoi cyclo city tour
Hanoi hidden gem

Day 03: HANOI – NINH BINH

After breakfast, you’ll depart your hotel in Hanoi at 8:00 AM to travel to Ninh Binh Province. Today’s excursion will focus on learning about the national heroes Dinh and Le, who founded the ancient capital of Hoalu in the 10th century.

Upon arrival in Ninh Binh, you’ll embark on a serene boat ride along the narrow waterways of the Tam Coc area. As you glide down the stream, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning sight of steep limestone cliffs in harmony with the lush, verdant rice paddies.

In the afternoon, you’ll have the option to discover the beauty of Ninh Binh’s rural landscapes on a cycling tour. This off-the-beaten-path experience will allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and rhythms of daily life for 1-2.5 hours, depending on your health, personal preferences, and the prevailing weather conditions.

Please note that the availability of the cycling tour is subject to these factors, and your guide will provide more details on the day.

Overnight in Ninh Binh.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Tour guide: English speaking guide

Tam coc boat trip
Cycling in Ninh Binh

Day 04: NINH BINH – HALONG

After breakfast, you’ll be picked up around 8:00 AM to embark on a journey to the mesmerizing Halong Bay. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed aboard your cruise ship and served a delicious lunch as you begin your voyage through the stunning limestone landscapes.

The specific itinerary for your Halong Bay experience will depend on the cruise you’ve selected, but it will typically include a visit to a karst cave, the opportunity to go kayaking (which may be an additional option or included in your package), and a chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters. You’ll also have the opportunity to simply relax and soak in the breathtaking scenery from the sundeck.

As the day draws to a close, you’ll be treated to a sumptuous dinner on board the cruise. You’ll then spend the night under the stars, surrounded by the serene beauty of Halong Bay.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tour guide: English speaking guide

halong limestone
kayaking in halong

Day 05: HALONG – HANOI – NIGHT TRAIN TO LAO CAI

Wake up to the soothing sounds of waves, fresh air, and a gentle breeze as a new day dawns on Halong Bay. After enjoying a hearty breakfast on board, you’ll have the opportunity to discover a breathtaking limestone grotto before returning to the boat for a scenic cruise back to the dock.

Your cruise is scheduled to arrive at the harbor by around 11:30 AM, where your driver will be waiting to take you back to Hanoi. Upon arrival, you’ll have a chance to take a light break at a small hotel near the train station.

In the evening, our staff will escort you to your cabin on the overnight train bound for Lao Cai. Spend the night on the train, waking up refreshed and ready to explore your next destination.

Tour guide: English speaking guide

Meal: Brunch

halong sunset on cruise
halong wooden cruise

Day 06: LAO CAI – SAPA - CAT CAT VILLAGE VISIT

Arrive at the Lao Cai train station around 6 AM, where you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel in Sapa, a scenic 1-hour drive away.

Upon reaching Sapa, begin your day with a delightful walking tour to the nearby hill tribe village of Cat Cat, home to the H’mong minority people. This cultural immersion experience will allow you to interact with the families living in the area before heading back to Sapa around noon.

Check in to your hotel in Sapa, subject to early check-in availability and the hotel’s policies. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, taking the opportunity to rest and recharge.

Overnight in Sapa.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Tour guide: English speaking guide

Hmong people at Cat Cat village

Day 07: SAPA – LAO CHAI/TA VAN/LAO CAI – OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO HANOI

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then head out to explore the vibrant Sapa daily wet market.

Following your market visit, you’ll set out on a 3-4 hour trekking adventure down to the Muong Hoa valley. Along the way, you’ll pass through the villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van, home to the H’mong and Dzay minority groups. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery, accompanied by local tribal people for an authentic cultural experience.

Take a break midday to enjoy a delicious local lunch at a restaurant before making your way back to Sapa town in a waiting vehicle.

You’ll have some free time in Sapa before transferring to the train station around 5 PM. Board the night train for the journey back to Hanoi, where you’ll spend the night on the train.

Special note: If your scheduled day is Tuesday, Thursday, Sat or Sunday, we will recommend to visit some of the most beautiful markets in Northwestern Vietnam.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Tour guide: English-speaking guide

bac ha - local market at Sapa
Sapa rice terrace

Day 08: HANOI – HUE

This morning, you’ll arrive at the Hanoi Train Station, where your driver will be waiting to take you to the airport for a morning flight to Hue.

Upon landing in Hue, you’ll be met by your guide and driver, who will transfer you to your hotel. Check-in and take some time to relax before your guide and driver return to pick you up for a royal-style dinner showcasing the sophisticated cuisine of Hue.

Overnight at your hotel in Hue.

Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Tour guide: English speaking guide

Local Hue cuisine

Day 09: HUE CITY TOUR

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel, then embark on a journey of discovery with your local guide to explore the charms of the Citadel in Hue, the former Imperial City. Marvel at the well-preserved royal monuments as you immerse yourself in the city’s rich history.

Next, cruise along the picturesque Huong River on a dragon boat, making a stop at the Thien Mu Pagoda to observe local religious practices at this oldest Buddhist symbol in Hue.

After enjoying a lunch at a local restaurant, continue your adventure by visiting the historic Tu Duc’s tomb and the bustling Dong Ba Market, where you can soak up the charming atmosphere.

Spend the night in Hue.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Tour guide: English speaking guide

Explore Hue imperial
Dong Ba market

Day 10: HUE – HOI AN ANCIENT TOWN

After exploring the ancient Hue Citadel, you’ll set out for the picturesque ancient town of Hoi An. Along the way, you’ll travel the breathtaking Ocean Clouds Mountain Pass (Hai Van Pass), making stops at the Cham Museum and the Marble Mountains in Da Nang.

Upon arrival in Hoi An, enjoy a delicious local lunch at a nearby restaurant before checking in to your hotel and having some free time.

In the afternoon, embark on an enchanting walking tour of Hoi An’s Old Quarter, exploring the Chinese Embassy Halls, Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Pagoda, and Tan Ky House. As the day winds down, you’ll have some well-deserved free time for shopping or relaxation.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Tour guide: English speaking guide

Couple in Hai Van pass
Phuc Kien pagoda

Day 11: MY SON HOLY LAND

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then embark on a half-day private tour to My Son, the sanctuary of the Cham culture. Explore the ruins of this ancient holy land, which dates back from the 4th to the 13th century, and learn about the glory days of the Champa people.

In the afternoon, enjoy some leisure time. You can choose to relax on the beach, browse the world of handicrafts and souvenirs that Hoi An has to offer, or take a stroll along the riverside to soak up the atmosphere of the historic Faifo merchant port.

Spend another night in Hoi An.

Meal: Breakfast
Tour guide: English speaking guide

My Son sanctuary

Day 12: HOI AN – DRIVE TO DA NANG - FLIGHT TO DA LAT

Transfer to airport in Da Nang for a short afternoon flight to Da Lat – the most romantic and European style city in Vietnam. On arrival transfer and check in to your hotel.
Evening free to explore the town on your own. 

Meal: Breakfast
Tour guide: None

Explore Da Lat by night

Day 13: DA LAT FULL DAY EXPLORATION

Today, at around 8:30 AM, your guide and driver will take you on a city tour of Dalat. Your first stop will be the renowned Truc Lam Thien Vien Temple, followed by a visit to Bao Dai’s villa, which served as the last emperor’s base for many hunting expeditions in the surrounding hills.

Next, you’ll explore the old train station and the aged old cathedral, before immersing yourself in the bustling Dalat market, which is packed with locally grown flowers, fruits, and other produce.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Spend the night in Dalat.

Meal: Breakfast
Tour guide: English Speaking Guide

Da Lat's attractions

Day 14: DA LAT - NHA TRANG

Late morning, our driver will come and pick you up for a ride to Nha Trang. The drive is scenic, with splendid views and the natural landscape along. After about 3 hour drive, reach Nha Trang & check in your hotel.
It is your free time for beach relaxation. 

Meal: Breakfast
Tour guide: None

The serenity of Nha Trang beach
Xuan Huong lake in Dalat

Day 15: NHA TRANG BEACH BREAK

Leisure on the beach or on your own exploration.

Meal: Breakfast
Tour guide: None

Day 16: NHA TRANG - FLIGHT TO HO CHI MINH CITY

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax or explore the surrounding neighborhood on your own.

Alternatively, you can opt for an exciting evening adventure and experience the vibrant streets of Saigon. Your local guides will take you on a motorbike journey through the city’s culinary wonders, allowing you to indulge in the authentic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine on a street food tour. Uncover hidden alleyways and discover the best-kept secrets of Saigon’s food scene.

Spend the night in Saigon.

Meal: Breakfast
Tour guide: English Speaking Guide pick-up

Vibrant bui vien street
Explore Saigon by mortorbike
Hop on a vintage Vespa for Saigon sightseeing

Day 17: CU CHI TUNNEL - SAIGON CITY TOUR

Start your day with a tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s top attractions, including the Central Post Office, Reunification Palace, and the thought-provoking War Remnants Museum. After exploring these sites, you can browse for souvenirs at the bustling Ben Thanh market or take a stroll along the historic Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Cardinal) to immerse yourself in the extraordinary energy of the city.

After lunch, venture to the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City and visit the Cu Chi Tunnels. This expansive network of underground tunnels was a crucial part of the Viet Cong’s operations during the Vietnam War, and you’ll have the chance to witness the remarkable work done by the guerrilla fighters.

The evening is yours to spend at your own leisure.

Meal: Breakfast
Tour guide: English speaking guide

Tour guide at Cu Chi tunnel
Cu Chi tunnel tour

Day 18: HO CHI MINH CITY – MEKONG DELTA INSIGHT BY THE CRUISE

After meeting at the hotel lobby, you’ll be transferred to Cai Be town, which is about a 2.5-hour drive away. Upon arrival, you’ll board a boat and be welcomed with a refreshing drink. After getting settled into your cabin, enjoy lunch while cruising along the canals, taking in the lively river traffic, markets, and churches.

During the cruise, you’ll have the chance to visit a village on the riverbank, where you can appreciate the local way of life and hospitality, and perhaps even visit a nearby orchard or rice field.

Back on board, you’ll have time to relax on the deck and enjoy the sunset. Dinner will be served on the boat, and the ship will anchor downstream for the night.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tour guide: English speaking guide on board

local life in Mekong Delta
Cycling tour in Mekong delta

Day 19: MEKONG DELTA – HO CHI MINH CITY

Rise early, as breakfast may be served as early as 6:30 AM. The ship will then depart and make its way towards Can Tho.

Upon arrival, you’ll transfer to a local boat and navigate through the Cai Rang floating market, exploring the nearby arroyos and gardens. After this fascinating market visit, you’ll return to the Ninh Kieu pier.

By mid-morning, your boat trip will come to an end, and your driver will take you back to Ho Chi Minh City. Check in to your hotel and take the rest of the day to relax.

Meal: Breakfast
Tour guide: English speaking guide

cai rang floating market

Day 20: HO CHI MINH DEPARTURE

Free for your own leisure until pick up and transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Meal: Breakfast
Tour guide: None

Ho Chi Minh street

Pricing

Category Price valid from 2024 – 2025 (per person in US dollar)
2 people 3 – 4 people 5 – 6 people 7 – 8 people Single supplement
Superior $2,592 $2,338 $2,036 $1,907 $857
Deluxe $2,843 $2,590 $2,288 $2,158 $1,098
Luxury $3,575 $3,322 $3,020 $2,890 $1,799

 

ACCOMMODATION

Cities Hotel Category
Superior Deluxe  Luxury
Hanoi

San Boutique Hotel

Premium

Anatole Hanoi Hotel

Grand Deluxe

Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel

Grand Deluxe

Ninh Binh

Le Clos Du Fil

Standard

Ninh Binh Hidden Charm

Deluxe

Emeralda Ninh Binh Resort

Superior

Sapa

Bamboo Hotel Sapa

Superior Window

Aliana Boutique Sapa Hotel & Spa

Deluxe Balcony

Silk Path Grand Sapa

Balcony Classic Mountain

Halong Renea Cruise
Deluxe
Peony Cruise
Deluxe Balcony
Indochine Lan Ha Cruise
Junior Suite
Hue Scarlet Hue Boutique Hotel
The Rhett
White Lotus
Deluxe River View
Pilgrimage Village Boutique & Spa
Deluxe
Hoi An Lantana Boutique Hotel
Superior
Central Boutique Hoian
Grand Deluxe
La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa
Veranda Suite
Da Lat

Du Parc Hotel Da Lat

Standard

Hotel Colline

Superior

Ana Mandara Villas Da Lat Resort & Spa

Villa Studio

Nha Trang

Michelia Hotel

Deluxe Ocean View

Liberty Central Nha Trang Hotel

Premier Ocean View

Mia Resort

Garden view one bedroom

Ho Chi Minh City Northern Saigon Hotel
Superior

Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint 

Deluxe

The Myst Dong Khoi

Dong Khoi Room

Mekong Mekong Eyes Classic Mekong Eyes Classic
Song Xanh Sampan

 

Include & Exclude

TRIP INCLUSIVE

  • Accommodations base on twin sharing room with daily breakfast
  • Private transfer with air-conditioned car for airport pick up/drop off
  • Bottle of water and cold towel daily on the private car
  • Regional and experienced English speaking guides
  • Meals as indicated (without beverage)
  • All entrance and sightseeing fees.
  • 2D1N trip in Ha Long Bay & Mekong Delta
  • Services charges and government tax
  • Domestic flight from Hanoi – Hue, Da Nang – Da Lat & Nha Trang – Ho Chi Minh
  • Boat trips

TRIP EXCLUSIVE

  • Travel insurances
  • Drink and meals not mentioned in Inclusive column
  • Personal tipping and gratuities
  • International flight ticket
  • Vietnam Visa

 Note:

* Check in time: 02.00pm – Check out time: 12.00pm.

* Price is based on minimum 2 people sharing 1 double/ twin room. Single supplement is surcharged when one person occupy one room.

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