Vietnam 14-Day Itinerary: The Ultimate North to South Journey

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Tour Overview

The Definitive 14-Day Vietnam Odyssey: From the Thousand-Year Capital to the Southern Hub

Experience the ultimate cross-country adventure with our comprehensive 14-day Vietnam travel package. This masterfully curated journey takes you from the misty peaks of the North to the vibrant energy of the South, offering a seamless blend of heritage and modern discovery. We handle every logistical detail, including internal flights, comfortable buses, and scenic train journeys, so you can immerse yourself fully in the experience.

Your 2-week exploration features six world-class destinations: the soul-stirring streets of Hanoi, the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, the coastal charm of Da Nang, the lantern-lit magic of Hoi An ancient town, the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), and the rustic waterways of the Mekong Delta, alongside the historic Cu Chi Tunnels.

Travel in style and comfort with hand-picked, premium accommodations that boast top ratings for excellence. Whether you are cruising through limestone karsts in Halong, wandering UNESCO World Heritage sites in Hoi An, or navigating the iconic floating markets of the Mekong Delta, every moment is designed for maximum satisfaction. Delve into the nation’s profound history and rich traditions as you traverse the length of this captivating land.

Leave the planning to the experts and prepare for the ultimate Vietnamese vacation. With all transportation and elite lodging secured, your only task is to create lasting memories. Reserve your spot on this premier 14-day journey today and witness the very best of Vietnam!

Day by day itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival – Airport Greeting – Hotel Check-in (Meals: Excluded)

Hanoi Arrival & Check-in: Start Your 14-Day Vietnam Adventure

Accommodation: Hanoi Space Hotel (3-star) or similar

Welcome to Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam! Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, our professional driver will transfer you directly to your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter, the ideal base for exploring the city and starting your 14-day Vietnam itinerary.

After check-in (from 12:30 PM), enjoy free time to relax, explore the charming streets of the Old Quarter, or soak up the local atmosphere. Overnight stay in Hanoi prepares you for the exciting adventures ahead.

Important Note: Please provide your flight details in advance to ensure a smooth airport transfer.

Day 2: Departing Hanoi – Exploring Ha Long Bay – Sea-borne Overnight (Meals: B, L, D)

Hanoi to Ha Long Bay Cruise: Exploration, Sunset & Pearl Farm Visit
Meal: Lunch (L)

Start your day with a hotel pick-up in Hanoi Old Quarter at 7:30–8:30 AM and enjoy a scenic drive to Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Quang Ninh Province. Brief stop in Hai Duong province before arriving at Tuan Chau harbor to board your luxurious Ha Long Bay cruise.

Explore a Pearl Farm, kayak through the village, and learn about pearl cultivation. Visit Titop Island for stunning panoramic views of Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts. Conclude the day with a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class on board and enjoy onboard entertainment such as squid fishing, karaoke, or card games. Overnight stay on the cruise ensures a relaxing and memorable start to your Vietnam North to South adventure.

Accommodation: Ha Long Bay Cruise

Day 3: Ha Long Bay Morning Cruise – Return to Hanoi – Hotel Check-in (Meals: B, L)

Ha Long Bay Sunrise, Sung Sot Cave & Return to Hanoi

Meal: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

Start your morning with an optional Tai Chi session on the sundeck, enjoying the sunrise over Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts. After breakfast, explore the spectacular Sung Sot Cave (Amazing Cave) with a guided walk through its massive chambers and unique stalactite formations, a must-see on any Ha Long Bay tour.

Enjoy a final lunch on board as the cruise returns to the mainland. Upon arrival at Ha Long Bay harbor, disembark and take a comfortable shuttle transfer back to Hanoi, stopping in Hai Duong province to visit a traditional Vietnamese Ceramics Workshop and discover local craftsmanship.

Accommodation: Hanoi Space Hotel (3-star) or similar, in Hanoi Old Quarter

Day 4: Journey to Sapa Highlands – Guided Trek to Cat Cat Valley (Meals: B, L)

Sapa Adventure: Cat Cat Village Trek & Cultural Experience

Meal: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

Start your Sapa tour with a hotel pick-up in Hanoi at 6:30–7:00 AM and enjoy a scenic drive through northern Vietnam mountains to Sapa, Lao Cai province. Upon arrival, meet locals in traditional costumes, enjoy a welcome drink, and have lunch before checking in at your 3-star hotel.

In the afternoon, visit Cat Cat Village, home to the Black H’mong ethnic group, and trek 2.5 km to a picturesque waterfall and historic French-built hydraulic station, guided by a local expert. Capture stunning photos along the way before returning to Sapa town.

In the evening, explore Sapa’s vibrant restaurants and nightlife, immersing yourself in the unique culture and breathtaking landscapes of this iconic mountain region.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Sapa

Day 5: Sapa Valley Trekking – Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai & Ta Van Scenic Hike – Return to Hanoi

Meal: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

After breakfast, check out from your Sapa hotel and prepare a light pack for a scenic trek through Sapa rice terraces. Start from Y Linh Ho, following the Muong Hoa Stream with stunning views of Hoang Lien Son Mountains. Visit Lao Chai village of the Black H’mong and Ta Van village of the Dzay ethnic group. The trek covers around 9 km and takes 3.5 hours.

Return by bus from Ta Van Bridge to Sapa for lunch at your hotel, then relax before departing for Hanoi. Enjoy comfort stops along the way and arrive in the evening for check-in at your Hanoi hotel, resting after an unforgettable Sapa adventure.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Hanoi

Day 6: Exploring Hanoi Independently – Night Railway Journey to Central Vietnam (Meals: B)

Meal: Breakfast (B)

Enjoy a free day in Hanoi to explore the Old Quarter, watch a traditional water puppet show, or stroll through the historic streets at your own pace. In the evening, transfer to the train station for an overnight journey to Da Nang, taking in the scenic coastal views along the way. Arrive at Da Nang Train Station around 10:30 AM the next morning.

Accommodation: Night Train to Da Nang

Day 7: Arrival in Da Nang – Immersive Discovery of Hoi An Ancient Town

Meal: No

Arrive in Da Nang and transfer to Hoi An Ancient Town for check-in at your 3-star hotel. Explore the charming streets, historic architecture, and lantern-lit alleys of this famous Vietnamese trading port. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and heritage of Hoi An, a must-visit destination on any Vietnam travel itinerary.

Accommodation: Hotel 3-star or similar

Day 8: Journey to My Son Sanctuary – Scenic Thu Bon River Boat Trip (Meals: B, L)

Meal: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

Start your day with a hotel pick-up at 7:30–8:00 AM for a tour to My Son Holy Land, 48 km west of Hoi An. Explore this ancient Cham religious site with over 70 towers and temples, admire the intricate Cham carvings and sculptures, and learn about the Champa Kingdom with your guide.

At noon, enjoy a boat trip on the Thu Bon River, observing local woodworking and shipbuilding traditions while having a soft lunch on board. Return to your Hoi An hotel to relax after a day of cultural and historical discoveries.

Accommodation: Hotel 3-star or similar, in Hoi An town

Day 9: Hoi An at Your Own Pace – Leisurely Day in the Ancient Town (Meals: B)

Meal: Breakfast (B)

Enjoy a free day in Hoi An, exploring the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, strolling through the old streets, visiting local markets, or relaxing at An Bang and Cua Dai beaches. Try traditional Vietnamese crafts like lantern making or silk weaving, take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River, or join a cooking class to learn authentic Vietnamese dishes. Immerse yourself in the culture, history, and charm of Hoi An, a must-visit destination in Vietnam.

Accommodation: Hotel 3-star or similar, in Hoi An town

Day 10: Hoi An Departure – Flight to Ho Chi Minh City – Arrival & Hotel Check-in (Meals: B)

Meal: Breakfast (B)

After breakfast, transfer from Hoi An to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). Upon arrival, enjoy hotel check-in in the city center and explore HCMC’s top attractions, including Independence Palace, Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Nguyen Hue Walking Street. Relax or start discovering the vibrant culture and bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City.

Accommodation: Lavender Hotel 3-star or similar, in HCMC city center

Day 11: Mekong Delta Escape – Cai Be Floating Market & Vinh Long Island Life (Meals: B, L)

Meal: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

Depart HCMC in the morning for a full-day tour of the Mekong Delta, witnessing lush paddy fields, canals, and tropical orchards along the way. Explore Cai Be Floating Market by boat, experience local handicraft villages, enjoy lunch in a fruit orchard, and ride bicycles or relax in a hammock. Continue by boat to Vinh Long, visit the local market, cross My Thuan Suspension Bridge, and return to Ho Chi Minh City for overnight stay.

Accommodation: Lavender Hotel 3-star or similar, in HCMC city center

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City – Heroic Cu Chi Tunnels Discovery (Meals: B)

Meal: Breakfast (B)

Depart HCMC at 8:30 AM for the Cu Chi Tunnels, located 60 km away, a historic site famous for its 220 km underground tunnel network used during the Vietnam War. Explore the rural rice paddies, see evidence of the fierce battles, and learn about the Cu Chi district’s heroic history. Return to Ho Chi Minh City around noon for overnight stay.

Accommodation: Lavender Hotel 3-star or similar, in HCMC city center

Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City Free Day – Unveiling the Southern Hub Your Way (Meals: B)

Meal: Breakfast (B)

Enjoy a free day in Ho Chi Minh City, exploring the blend of modern skyscrapers and French colonial architecture. Visit top landmarks like the War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and shop for souvenirs at Ben Thanh Market. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, history, and local life of HCMC at your own pace.

Accommodation: Lavender Hotel 3-star or similar, in HCMC city center

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City Departure – Airport Transfer – End of Vietnam Journey (Meals: B)

Meal: Breakfast (B)

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and free time to explore Ho Chi Minh City or shop for souvenirs before your transfer to the airport for your flight home or onward destination. Thank you for choosing Best Vietnam Tours—we hope your Vietnam adventure was unforgettable and look forward to welcoming you on future journeys!

Inclusions

Meals

Meals as 1 dinner, 2 lunches and 1 breakfast with local dishes

Transport

Airport transfer private car, Bus Hanoi – Sapa

Accommodation

3 star accommodation

Included activities

Accommodations: 13 nights of hand-picked 3-star lodging (11 nights in comfortable hotels, 1 night in a sleeper train cabin, and 1 night on a scenic Halong Bay cruise).
Domestic Aviation: One-way economy flight ticket from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City.
Railway Experience: One-way overnight train from Hanoi to Da Nang (Soft-sleeper berth, air-conditioned, 4-berth shared compartment).
Private Transfers: Dedicated private car service for airport arrivals and departures in Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
Station Shuttle: Seamless ground transfers to and from the railway stations in Hanoi and Da Nang.
Sapa Transport: Round-trip bus journey between Hanoi and Sapa, featuring complimentary bottled water, snacks, and an onboard guide.
Halong Bay Shuttle: Comfortable two-way transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay with refreshments and tour guide assistance.
Sapa Trekking: 2-day professionally guided excursion exploring the ethnic mountain villages of Sapa.
Halong Bay Cruise: 2-day, 1-night boutique cruise experience on the Majestic Cruise (or equivalent quality).
Hoi An Heritage: Guided exploration of My Son Sanctuary followed by a relaxing boat excursion back to Hoi An.
Mekong Discovery: Full-day guided trip to the Mekong Delta, including Cai Be Floating Market and Vinh Long island.
Historical Site Tour: Guided educational visit to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels.
Culinary Inclusions: Daily meals as specified in the program (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
Sightseeing Access: All entrance fees and sightseeing tickets for the attractions listed in the itinerary.
On-board Activities: Exciting kayaking adventures and a traditional Vietnamese cooking demonstration while in Halong Bay.

Tour Price

FAQs

1. Is the overnight train from Hanoi to Da Nang comfortable?

Absolutely! To ensure a restful trip, we provide air-conditioned, 4-berth shared cabins with soft-sleeper berths, offering the highest standard of comfort available on the Vietnamese railway. This overnight journey is not only a fantastic time-saver but also a quintessential local experience, allowing you to wake up to breathtaking views of the rural countryside that are simply invisible from a flight.

2. What should I pack for the Sapa trekking and Halong Bay cruise?

Preparation is key to enjoying your adventure! For the highlands of Sapa, we suggest packing a pair of durable trekking shoes or sneakers along with a light jacket, as mountain temperatures can be quite cool. For your Halong Bay cruise, don’t forget your swimwear, sunscreen, and a sun hat. To maximize your comfort, we highly recommend leaving your main luggage in our secure storage at the Hanoi hotel and only carrying a compact daypack for these 2-3 day excursions.

3. I am a vegetarian/have food allergies. Can you accommodate my diet?

Absolutely! Your comfort and health are our priorities. We cater to all dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets, as well as specific food allergies. Simply notify us during the booking process, and we will coordinate with our local restaurants and the Halong Bay cruise chefs to prepare specially tailored meals that suit your requirements perfectly.

4. How much free time will I have during the 14-day trip?

We have meticulously designed this itinerary to offer a perfect harmony between guided discovery and personal relaxation. Beyond the scheduled tours, you will enjoy full leisure days in both Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City. This gives you the ideal opportunity to indulge in some boutique shopping, discover charming hidden cafes, or simply soak up the local atmosphere at your own rhythm.

5. Are the domestic flights and private transfers guaranteed?

Yes, everything is secured in advance. Your domestic flight from Da Nang to Saigon and all private transfers listed in the program are fully inclusive and pre-arranged. Upon your arrival, our professional drivers will be waiting at the airport or station exit with a personalized name sign, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition to your next destination.

6. Is the trekking in Sapa and Cu Chi Tunnels physically demanding?

The excursions in Sapa and Cat Cat Village are rated as moderate activity, involving scenic walks on a mix of paved paths and natural terrain with some inclines. Regarding the Cu Chi Tunnels, while the tunnels are a highlight, you can fully enjoy the historical exhibits and ground-level displays without going underground if you prefer. Always feel free to update your guide on your comfort level so they can adjust the pace for you.

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Money back guarantee

Best Price guaranteed

Customizable by local experts

Why you’ll love this trip?

Infomation & Trip map

Tour Overview

Day by day itinerary

Inclusions

Tour Price

FAQs

Vietnam Tours

Cambodia Tours

Laos Tours

Thailand Tours

Myanmar Tours

Indochina Tours

Vietnam 14-Day Itinerary: The Ultimate North to South Journey

Money back guarantee

Best Price guaranteed

Customizable by local experts

Why you’ll love this trip?

Infomation & Trip map

﻿Tour Overview

Day by day itinerary

Inclusions

Tour Price

FAQs

Tours Related

Tour Overview