Ultimate Vietnam Discovery: 13 Days 12 Nights

ULTIMATE VIETNAM DISCOVERY: HERITAGE, NATURE & ADVENTURE (13 DAYS)

Routing: Hanoi ➔ Pu Luong ➔ Ninh Binh ➔ Halong/Lan Ha Bay (Overnight Cruise) ➔ Hoi An ➔ Ho Chi Minh City

Style: Classic, Cultural Immersion, Soft Adventure, Soft Trekking

Target Markets: Europe, USA, Australia (Luxury & Experience Seekers)

🗺️ ITINERARY OVERVIEW

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival – Welcome to Vietnam’s Historic Capital

Day 2: Hanoi In-depth: Old Quarter Walking Tour & Street Food Adventure (B, L, D)

Day 3: Hanoi ➔ Pu Luong Nature Reserve: Village Life & Bamboo Rafting (B, L, D)

Day 4: Pu Luong Eco-Adventure: Trekking to Caves & Waterfalls (B, L, D)

Day 5: Pu Luong ➔ Ninh Binh: Golden Rice Fields & Ancient Hamlets (B, L)

Day 6: Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital & Tam Coc Grottoes Rowboat (B, L)

Day 7: Ninh Binh ➔ Lan Ha Bay: 5-Star Overnight Cruise Experience (B, L, D)

Day 8: Lan Ha Bay ➔ Halong Port ➔ Flight to Danang ➔ Hoi An (B, L)

Day 9: Hoi An Ancient Town: Walking Heritage Tour & Food Tasting (B, L)

Day 10: Hoi An Free Day: Relax at An Bang Beach or Optional Tours (B)

Day 11: Hoi An ➔ Danang Airport ➔ Flight to Ho Chi Minh City (B)

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City: Cu Chi Tunnels Discovery (B, L)

Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City Departure (B)

(B: Breakfast / L: Lunch / D: Dinner)

DETAILED ITINERARY

DAY 1: HANOI ARRIVAL – WELCOME TO VIETNAM’S HISTORIC CAPITAL (MEALS: N/A)

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), look for your Smile Travel representative holding a welcome sign at Column 10, Gate 02 (New Terminal). A private transfer will take you through the vibrant streets of Hanoi to your hotel for check-in. Standard check-in time: 14:00. Early check-in is subject to availability.

Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure, adjusting to the new time zone and exploring the immediate neighborhood.

Overnight in Hanoi.

DAY 2: HANOI IN-DEPTH: OLD QUARTER WALKING TOUR & STREET FOOD ADVENTURE (MEALS: B/L/D)

Embark on an authentic Walking Tour to dive deep into the legendary Hanoi Old Quarter. Wander through the bustling “36 Guild Streets,” where ancient history meets modern trade. Each lane is historically named after a specific craft.

Architecture Spotlight: The Tube Houses

Keep your eyes peeled for the unique “Tube Houses” – quirkily narrow and incredibly long buildings that are a classic, space-saving Hanoian style you won’t find elsewhere.

After exploring the architectural and historic soul of the city, it’s time to indulge in a Street Food Adventure. Master the local culinary scene with proper bowls of Pho, the world-famous Banh Mi, and the absolute must-try Egg Coffee.

Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Overnight in Hanoi.

DAY 3: HANOI ➔ PU LUONG NATURE RESERVE: VILLAGE LIFE & BAMBOO RAFTING (MEALS: B/L/D)

07:00 AM: Private pickup from your hotel for a scenic 4-hour drive to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, famous for its limestone mountains and intricate terraced fields.12:00 PM: Arrive, check into your room, and enjoy a local lunch.01:30 PM: Village Life Immersive Walk

Transfer to Ban Cong to begin a leisure 2.5km walk through Rice Fields. Cross a suspension bridge to reach one of Pu Luong’s most picturesque villages. Discover the massive Giant Water Wheels, a remarkable feat of hydraulic engineering created by mountainous ethnic minorities.

Adventure Highlight: Bamboo Rafting

Arrive at Chieu Lau dam and embark on a Bamboo Rafting experience. Paddleupstream with local experts and have fun in the pristine water.

The day concludes with another 2km trek through villages before returning to your retreat for relaxation.

Overnight in Pu Luong.

DAY 4: PU LUONG ECO-ADVENTURE: TREKKING TO CAVES & WATERFALLS (MEALS: B/L/D)

Ready by 9:00 AM to conquer the largest cave and waterfall in Pu Luong.

Kho Muong Village Exploration

Enjoy a ride heading to Kho Muong village, home to the Thai ethnic people. This secluded village offers a glance at undisturbed local life. Explore Bat Cave, the largest and most impressive cavern in the entire reserve.

Lunch by the Waterfall

Continue your journey toward Hieu Village. Take a short, refreshing walk to a unique waterfall nestled within the reserve. Savor lunch surrounded by the sounds of the jungle. Spend time swimming in the crystal-clear waters and exploring the village before returning to your hotel by 4:00 PM.

Overnight in Pu Luong.

DAY 5: PU LUONG ➔ NINH BINH: GOLDEN RICE FIELDS & ANCIENT HAMLETS (MEALS: B/L)

08:45 AM: Start your day with a leisurely stroll down the valley to Don Village, the heart of Pu Luong. This gentler road winds through vast terraced fields that transform scenery with every step. Capture breathtaking photos of Uoi Hamlet, nestled humbly at the base of a towering mountain.

Descend further to Lan Village, the “Kingdom of the Thai People.” Home to 100 families, the village offers soothing sights of verdant farmlands and ducks paddling in ponds. Witness traditional brocade sewing and engage with friendly locals. Return to the retreat by 11:30 AM to check out.

After lunch, depart for Ninh Binh Province (The “Halong Bay on Land”). Check in hotel upon arrival.

Overnight in Ninh Binh.

DAY 6: NINH BINH: HOA LU ANCIENT CAPITAL & TAM COC GROTTOES ROWBOAT (MEALS: B/L)

This morning, travel to the ancient royal capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu. Visit the Dinh King and Le King temples, dating back to the 10th Century, and learn about the heroic histories of these two dynasties.

Proceed to Tam Coc for lunch at a local restaurant.

Highlight Event: Traditional Sampan Boat Ride

After lunch, board a small bamboo boat for a scenic ride on the Ngo Dong River to visit Tam Coc (“Three Grottoes”). As you glide through the water, witness local fisherfolk, authentic village life, and the striking, UNESCO-listed limestone karst formations towering above the rice fields.

Overnight in Ninh Binh.

DAY 7: NINH BINH ➔ LAN HA BAY: 5-STAR OVERNIGHT CRUISE EXPERIENCE (MEALS: B/L/D)

Enjoy breakfast and transfer to the coast to embark on your traditional junk-style vessel for an overnight cruise through the pristine Lan Ha Bay (part of the UNESCO-listed Halong Bay area). Settle into your cabin and marvel at the emerald waters and towering limestone pillars.

Royal Cruise Experience

Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch. The afternoon activities can include swimming, relaxing on a remote beach, climbing to a lookout point for panoramic views, or kayaking in secluded bays. Later, watch a cooking demonstration featuring traditional Vietnamese cuisine, followed by a deluxe dinner on board.

Anchor for an overnight stay among the dramatic limestone peaks.Marketing AI Note: Ensure sales emphasize the use of high-end, smaller, and quieter vessels for Lan Ha Bay vs. crowded Halong Bay.

Overnight on Cruise.

DAY 8: LAN HA BAY ➔ HALONG PORT ➔ FLIGHT TO DANANG ➔ HOI AN (MEALS: B/L)

Early risers can participate in an optional Tai Chi class on deck at sunrise. After breakfast, visit a large, colorful Wet Cave of stalactites and stalagmites (or similar location based on your cruise’s unique itinerary).

Return to the boat for a short cooking class and a light brunch while cruising back to port. Upon disembarkation, your private transfer will take you to the airport for your flight to Danang.

Upon arrival at Danang Airport (DAD), you will be met by our driver and transferred to the charming Hoi An Ancient Town. Check in hotel.

Overnight in Hoi An.

DAY 10: HOI AN FREE DAY: AN BANG BEACH OR OPTIONAL TOURS (MEALS: B)

Today, enjoy a full day free at leisure to explore this fascinating town.

Marketing AI Recommendation – Optional Activities (Pre-bookable):

A Taste of Hoi An (Market Tour & Cooking Class): A deeper dive into local cuisine.

Cycling Countryside Tour: Visit Cam Thanh Coconut Village and Tra Que Vegetable Village.

An Bang Beach Relaxation: Spend the day by the sea (just 4km away).

Overnight in Hoi An.

DAY 11: HOI AN ➔ DANANG AIRPORT ➔ FLIGHT TO HO CHI MINH CITY (MEALS: B)

After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to nearby Danang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), the dynamic economic hub of the south.

Upon arrival, your Smile Travel representative will transfer you to your hotel. You have free time to explore the city at your own pace.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 12: HO CHI MINH CITY: CU CHI TUNNELS DISCOVERY (MEALS: B/L)

Embark on a private tour to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, constructed by Vietnamese fighters during the struggle for independence. The hidden 220 km tunnel system undetected by foreign troops, was at one stage home to around 10,000 people.

History Highlight: Explore the Underworld

Explore the tunnels that were used as hospitals, schools, kitchens, weapon storage, and command centers. The journey offers an unmissable insight into the spirit of resilience. Afterwards, return to Ho Chi Minh City.Option: In the evening, consider an optional Saigon Opera House show (AO Show) or a dinner cruise (Guest own expense).

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 13: HO CHI MINH CITY DEPARTURE (MEALS: B)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Spend your final hours in Vietnam exploring independent, shopping, or relaxing before your private transfer will arrive to take you to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) for your departure flight back home.

Return with sweet memories of Smile Travel! Safe travels.

INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS

INCLUSIONS:

•         01 Night on a luxury Lan Ha Bay Cruise (5-star, 6-star) including all activities.
•         10 Nights in 4* Hotel accommodation based on shared twin/double rooms with daily breakfast.
•         02 Nights in a Homestay/Eco-Retreat in Pu Luong.
•         Private, air-conditioned vehicle transfers throughout the itinerary.
•         Expert English-speaking tour guides stationed in North, Central, and South Vietnam.
•         Boat tickets for Tam Coca  rowboat.
•         All entrance and sightseeing fees as indicated in the program.
•         11 Breakfasts (B), 09 Lunches (L), 04 Dinners (D) at certified restaurants.
•         Traditional Sampan Boat ride in Tam Coc.
•         Cooking class demonstration on cruise and in Hanoi.
•         Kayaking/Rowing boat and Squid fishing on Lan Ha Cruise.
•         Complimentary mineral water (01 bottles/person/day).

EXCLUSIONS:

•         International flight tickets & Airport departure taxes.
•       Domestic flight tickets (HAN-DAD / DAD-SGN) – (Smile Travel can provide these at special net rates).
•         Early check-in or Late check-out (Unless indicated).
•         Tip for driver and tour guide.
•         Personal expenses (Laundry, Telephone, Spa, Shopping).
•         Any other meals/beverages not mentioned in the program.
•         Travel Insurance (Mandatory for international travel).
•         Surcharges: Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve, Vietnamese Lunar New Year (TET Holiday).
•         Visa processing fees.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

•         Dietary Requests:

Indian Tourists: Requesting Indian food will pay a mandatory surcharge of 5 USD/PAX/MEAL.

•         Muslim Group: Requesting Halal food will pay a mandatory surcharge of 5 USD/PAX/MEAL. Smile Travel will ensure meals are sourced from certified Halal vendors in major cities and Muslim-friendly kitchens in remote areas.
•         Pricing for Series Tours: For regular SERI TOUR commitments, special discounted pricing (cheaper net price) is available. Please contact our B2B Contracting Department for the best offer.

Tip Policy Mandatory for driver and tour guide:

•         1 – 4 pax: 5 USD / pax / day
•         5 – 10 pax: 4 USD / pax / day
•         10 pax: 3 USD / pax / day

Availability: If the specific accommodation mentioned in the itinerary is not available at the time of booking, Smile Travel will suggest alternative solutions in the same category.

ACCOMMODATION:

RATE CONTRACT

Land Tour Cost / person in USD | 16 Pax + 01 FOC (FOC based on half twin sharing room)

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION

GRATUITIES & TIPPING: THE LOWDOWN

Just a heads up that tips for your tour guide and driver aren’t included in the trip price. If you reckon they’ve done a cracking job and you’re happy with the service, a tip of $10 AUD per person, per day is the way to go. You can pay this in the local currency, and it’ll be collected during the tour to cover both your guide and driver.

A quick note on the local way: Tipping is entirely up to you, but keep in mind that for many locals, tips are a standard part of what they earn. You might find people approaching you for a tip—don’t let it rattle you, it’s just how things are done there. Whether you choose to tip or how much you give is always your call.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: DON’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT!

Heading off on your next holiday is heaps of exciting, but even when you’re hoping for a smooth run, it pays to be prepared for the “what-ifs”. We reckon it’s a smart move to sort out your travel insurance the moment you book.

Whether it’s a medical mishap, a cancelled flight, or your luggage going walkabout, you’ll want to make sure you’re covered so you can enjoy your trip with total peace of mind.

VIETNAM VISA: HERE’S THE GO ON YOUR VISA

If you’re travelling on an Aussie passport, you can snag a single-entry e-visa online that’s good for up to 90 days. You’ll need to lodge your application (and pay a non-refundable fee) through the official Vietnamese National Web Portal of Immigration. They’ll give you a unique code so you can keep an eye on your application status. Once it’s sorted and granted, make sure you print a hard copy. You’ll need to show it at check-in and keep it on you at all times while you’re trekking around Vietnam.

Your Port of Entry

Your ‘Port of Entry’ is simply the first spot you touch down in Vietnam. For example, if you’re flying from home into Ho Chi Minh City and then catching a domestic flight to Hanoi on Day 1, your Port of Entry is Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport).

A Handy Tip for your Stay

When the form asks for your ‘Intended length of stay’, we reckon it’s best to put down 30 days, even if you’re planning a shorter trip. It doesn’t cost any extra and there’s no drama if you leave early. Doing this gives you a bit of a buffer in case of flight delays or if something unexpected pops up and you need to stay a few extra days.

Watch out for Scams

Be a bit wary—there are some dodgy private visa sites and agents out there that have scammed travellers or leaked personal info. To stay safe, stick to the official Vietnamese Government services. Visa rules, customs, and quarantine bits and pieces can change without much notice, so it’s always a good idea to check in with the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam for the latest word.

Important Stuff:

Don’t leave it to the last minute: Start sorting your visa at least three weeks before you head off to account for any processing delays.

Post-Covid rules: Things have changed a bit lately. Some countries or airlines might need extra paperwork before you arrive. Double-check with the embassy or your airline so you’re not caught out.

Please note:

Not an Aussie citizen? You’ll need to have a yarn with your own consulate or a visa agency to find out exactly what you need.

Working in certain fields? If you work in journalism, for the government, or a charity, there might be extra hoops to jump through. This could change the type of visa you need, so make sure you’ve got the right one for your situation.

WEATHER & WHAT TO EXPECT

Vietnam: Weather & What to Pack

Vietnam’s weather is a bit of a mixed bag depending on where you are. Here’s the lowdown so you know what to pack:

Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa)

Winter (Dec to Feb): It gets surprisingly chilly and stays fairly dry. Expect temps around 10-20°C, so definitely pack a decent jacket or a few layers.

Spring (Mar to Apr): The weather starts warming up, but expect a few light showers here and there as the seasons shift.

Summer (May to Aug): It’s stinking hot and pretty humid. Temps sit between 25-38°C, and you’ll see plenty of heavy rain and the odd thunderstorm.

Autumn (Sep to Nov): Probably the best time to visit. It’s cooler, drier, and much more comfortable for trekking or walking around.

Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An)

• The top half of Central Vietnam is similar to the North, but further down in Da Nang and Hoi An, it’s a classic tropical vibe:
• Dry Season (Feb to July): Beautiful and warm. Perfect beach weather with temps between 25-35°C.
• Wet Season (Aug to Jan): Expect plenty of rain and high humidity. It can get a bit wild with heavy downpours at times.

Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)

• It’s pretty much warm all year round down south, split into two main seasons:
• Dry Season (Dec to Apr): Plenty of sunshine and quite dry. Temperatures hover around 25-35°C.
• Rainy Season (May to Nov): Humid and wet. You’ll get those classic tropical afternoon bursts, especially from June to September, but it stays nice and warm.
• A quick heads up: These are just the general patterns. Mother Nature likes to keep us on our toes, so things can vary a bit from year to year!

>>

14 Days Vietnam Discovery Tour: Hanoi – Sapa – Halong Bay – Da Nang – Hoi An – Saigon

Best Vietnam-Cambodia Tour 15 Days/14 Nights-Smile Travel

10D9N Hanoi- Sapa- Halong Bay- Danang- Hoi An Private Tour

Discover Vietnam Tour 10 Days From South To North With Smile Travel

Best Tour 6D5N Cambodia Vietnam (Siem Riep Ho Chi Minh)

Northern Vietnam itinerary 8 days: Hanoi-Sapa-Halong Bay-Tam Coc/Trang An Eco Tourism Complex