Vietnam, from North to “Soul” (16 Days)
Destinations: Ha Noi – Sa Pa – Ha Long – Ninh Binh – Da Nang – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh – Mekong – Phu Quoc
Discover the diverse wonders of Vietnam on this unforgettable journey — perfect for families, couples, friends, first-time visitors, and anyone seeking a well-balanced itinerary of nature, culture, relaxation, and soft adventure.
- Explore the vibrant streets of Hanoi, savoring local dishes and rich history. Trek the breathtaking rice terraces of Sapa, connect with hill tribes, and cruise through the stunning limestone pillars of Ha Long Bay. Don’t miss Ninh Binh’s ancient temples and serene caves.
- In Central Vietnam, marvel at the Marble Mountains and Ba Na Hills in Da Nang, and wander the charming streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- In the south, experience the history of Ho Chi Minh City at the Notre Dame Cathedral and Reunification Palace, explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, and enjoy a scenic boat trip through the Mekong Delta.
- Relax on the beautiful beaches of Phu Quoc Island, visit Dinh Cau Temple, ride the world’s longest cable car, and embark on island hopping adventures in this tropical paradise.
16 days
Classic ,Local Life ,Family ,Beach ,Active & Nature
Easy
Ha Noi
Phu Quoc
VN1601
All ages
Please contact us for more support if you are a solo traveler or if your group has more than 14 people.
- Arrive in Hanoi. Depending on your arrival time in the morning, our English-speaking local guide (ESG) and driver will welcome you at the airport and transfer you for lunch.
- 14:00: Check-in at your hotel.
- After a short rest, take your first look at Hanoi, visiting famous monuments such as the Temple of Literature, known as the first university in Vietnam.
(Image: 1. Temple of Literature; 2. “Cha ca Lang” lunch – Ha Noi – Viet Nam)
- Explore Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and The Huc Bridge — icons of Hanoi that reflect the historical development of Vietnam and its spiritual life. Additionally, enjoy a one-hour cyclo tour around the bustling Old Quarter, which has been submitted to UNESCO for recognition as a World Heritage Site.
- In the evening, savor authentic Hanoi street food, including Bun Cha (grilled pork noodles), Banh Cuon (Vietnamese rice rolls), Trang Tien sweet soup, ice cream, and draft beer.
- 21:00: Return to your hotel for free time and stay overnight in Hanoi.
- 08:00: After breakfast at the hotel, check out. Spend the morning sightseeing in Hanoi, visiting Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (closed on Mondays and Fridays), the Presidential Palace, One Pillar Pagoda, and Tran Quoc Pagoda.
(Image: 1. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum; 2. One Pillar Pagoda – Ha Noi – Vietnam)
- Have lunch at a local restaurant.
- In the afternoon: your guide and driver will pick you up from the hotel and transfer you to Duong Lam Ancient Village, located about 50 km from Hanoi. Upon arrival, visit the village gate, Mong Phu Communal House, and several ancient homes while sampling local products such as rice wine and rice cakes. Explore cultural and historical sites in Duong Lam, including the Giang Van Minh Worship House, Princess Mia Palace and Temple, and Mia Pagoda.
(Image: Duong Lam Ancient Village)
- 17:30: Arrive back in Hanoi for dinner and enjoy a well-known traditional Vietnamese water puppet show.
- Return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Hanoi.
- 07:00: After breakfast, check out. Our tour guide will pick you up in a private minivan for the transfer to Sapa (approximately 5 hours).
- 12:00: Arrive in Sapa. Enjoy lunch before checking in at your hotel and taking a short rest.
- 15:00: The group will depart to visit Cat Cat Village, home to the H’Mong people. Learn about the traditional weaving and dyeing crafts, interact with the H’Mong, visit the Cat Cat Waterfall, and explore the hydroelectric plant built by the French.
(Image: Cat Cat Village – Sapa – Vietnam)
- 18:00: Have dinner at a local restaurant.
- Return to the hotel/resort for an overnight stay in Sapa.
- 08:00: After breakfast at the ecolodge, transfer to the Fansipan Cable Car station. Discover Fansipan Legend Amusement Park by Sun World and reach the highest peak in Indochina.
(Image: Fansipan Legend amusement park – Sapa – Vietnam)
- Enjoy a buffet lunch at Fansipan Legend.
- In the afternoon, trek through the lush rice terraces of Muong Hoa Valley, taking in the spectacular views of the stepped fields. Visit Black H’mong ethnic minority villages to learn about their weaving and embroidery techniques.
- 16:30: Return to the hotel/resort to rest and enjoy dinner
- Overnight in Sapa.
- 09:00: After breakfast at the hotel/resort, check out. A private car and tour guide will pick you up for the transfer to Hanoi, with lunch along the way.
- 15:00: Arrive in Hanoi, check into the hotel, and take a break.
- 16:30: Move to visit the iconic railway street – one of Hanoi’s unique destination in the capital. The train travels by the backyards of these families a couple times each day.
(Image: Railway Street – Ha Noi – Vietnam)
- 18:00: Have dinner in the old town.
- 20:00: Back to your hotel/resort, overnight in Hanoi.
- 09:00 – 09:30: After breakfast at your hotel in Hanoi, a shared limousine bus and tour guide will pick you up at your hotel.
- 12:00: The crew members of Peony or Mon Cheri Cruise will welcome you at Tuan Chau Port, lot 16, Quang Ninh.
- 12:45: You will be taken aboard our support vessel and travel from the wharf via the bay to board our luxurious craft, Peony or Mon Chéri Cruises. Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome drink, a refreshing towel, and a special lunch featuring fresh seafood and a selection of delightful dishes, served in the luxurious dining space of the cruise. Life just doesn’t get better than this! We then set sail for Lan Ha Bay – ecognized as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Bays.
- 15:30: We will visit Dark and Bright cave – famous for the pristine natural beauty and poetic, attractive seascape of Lan Ha Bay. Here you will take some photos of the surrounding limestone karsts. This is also the best time for tourists to enjoy bamboo boat rides or swimming – which is an interesting activity to discover the truest beauty of the limestone mountains and the blue sky of Lan Ha Bay. Afterwards, visitors immerse in the emerald-green water of Lan Ha Bay with exciting swimming activities or enjoy a mini pool with a jacuzzi on Peony or Mon Chéri Cruise.
(Image: The Dark and Bright cave – Lan Ha Bay – Quang Ninh – Vietnam)
- 17:30: Return to Peony or Mon Chéri Cruise and unwind with a sunset party on the sundeck. This is a perfect opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture the breathtaking sunset over Lan Ha Bay.
- 19:30: Enjoy a romantic dinner at the restaurant on Peony or Mon Chéri Cruise.
- 21:00 – 22:00: Enjoy the nightlife of the bay from the top deck. Immerse yourself in music, enjoy a glass of cocktail from the bar, watch a movie under the stars and relax on the cruise.
- Otherwise, you can try your hand at squid fishing with the sailors or simply relax in the room and enjoy the bay view from the balcony.
- Overnight on the cruise.
- 06:30-7:30: Breakfast is served at Mon Chéri Cruise restaurant.
- 08:00: Visit Frog Pond, go kayaking or be free to relax in the four-season mini pool on Lan Ha Bay – A silk ribbon made from green mountains, blue seas and diverse fauna and flora.
(Image: Frog Pond – Lan Ha Bay – Quang Ninh – Vietnam)
- 09:30: Check out of the room. Then the lunch in the restaurant is ready for you, pay the extra fee (if any) at the reception while traveling to the port. Kindly needed to pay for the costs in charge of the front desk (if any) while traveling to the port.
- 10:30 – 10:45: Disembark and move back to the port.
- 12:00: Transfer to Ninh Binh by private car with our English-speaking local guide.
- 15:00: Check in at a hotel in Ninh Binh, take a short rest.
- 16:00: Visit Thung Nham bird park which is surrounded by tropical forests over limestone mountain chains with a lot of valleys and caves. Bird garden is a living space for many birds such as stork, heron, mallard, etc. There are also two rare species in the Red Data Book, flamingo, and phoenix. Everything is peaceful and poetic.
- 18:00: Go back to the hotel and have dinner at the hotel. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
(Image: Thung Nham Bird Park – Ninh Binh – Vietnam)
- 09:00: After breakfast, continue visiting Tam Coc – Bich Dong and Mua Cave, a scenic complex in Vietnam renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes and ancient cave temples. Explore majestic limestone karsts, enjoy serene river cruises amidst rice paddies, and visit historic pagodas nestled within caves, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
(Image: Tam Coc during ripening rice season in the end of May – Ninh Binh)
- 11:30: Have lunch at the local restaurant.
- 13:30: In the afternoon, visit Hoa Lu, the old capital. Take time to explore Dinh Temple, dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang, and Le Temple, honoring King Le Dai Hanh since the 17th century. Learn about ancient kings and the history of Dai Co Viet.
- 14:30: Transfer back to Ha Noi.
- 16:30: Have dinner at the local restaurant in Hanoi
- 17:30: Our driver will take you to Hanoi Domestic Airport for your flight to Da Nang.
- Upon arrival in Da Nang, our driver in Da Nang will pick you up and transfer to your hotel in Da Nang
- 08:00: After breakfast, transfer to Ba Na Hills. Enjoy the most modern cable car in Southeast Asia, then explore Le Jardin d’Amour and Ling Ung Pagoda. Continue on the second cable car to visit the French Village, enjoy street music, admire art statues, and visit Linh Phong Monastery, all while walking on the iconic Golden Bridge amid the foggy hills.
(Image: Golden Bridge – Ba Na Hills – Da Nang – Vietnam)
- 11:30: Have lunch at the local restaurant.
- Enjoy a buffet lunch featuring over one hundred different dishes.
- 15:00: Begin your descent to discover Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Monkey Mountain. Take in stunning views of Da Nang City from a height of 500 meters and visit Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the tallest Lady Buddha statue in Vietnam.
- In the evening, experience the taste of seafood dinner.
- Return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Da Nang.
- 09:00: After breakfast, transfer to Marble Mountains — a natural masterpiece in Da Nang. Challenge yourself to climb over 120 steps to reach Thuy Son (the Water Mountain), where breathtaking fairyland views await.
- Arrive in Hoi An and bike to Tra Que Village to experience the daily life of a local farmer.
- Have lunch at the local restaurant.
- Check in at the hotel and relax at your leisure.
- 16:00: Begin exploring Hoi An Ancient Town, a major Asian trading port in the 17th and 18th centuries. Visit notable sites, including the Chinese Communal House, Hoi Kien Temple, ancient Tan Ki Merchant’s House, and the 400-year-old Japanese Bridge.
(Image: Local coffee and beer in Hoi An Ancient Town – Hoi An – Vietnam)
- Have dinner with Hoi An local food and explore lantern-lit night. Overnight in Hoi An.
- 08:00: After breakfast at the hotel, our tour guide will escort you to visit the Old Brick Kiln, nestled in a green rice field and known for its picturesque scenery. Enjoy some coffee and take in the surroundings.
(Image: Old Brick Kiln – Hoi An – Vietnam)
- 09:30: Move to Cam Thanh Village for a brief introduction to its history. Board a basket boat and paddle along the water coconut river, where fishermen will teach you how to catch crabs (2 people per boat). Enjoy basket boat dancing performance, and crab-catching, then participate in a cooking class to make Banh Xeo and Fried Spring Rolls, followed by lunch featuring local specialties by the riverside. Menu includes fresh spring rolls, Banh Xeo, salad, fish in clay pot, morning glory, rice, and dessert.
(Image: Cam Thanh Coconut Forest – Hoi An – Vietnam)
- 13:30: Transfer back to your hotel.
- Afternoon: Free time – explore the old town’s alleys to the local life; visit tailor shops, or handicraft gifts and coffee beans. Alternatively, relax at An Bang Beach 3 km from the hotel. Dinner on your own. Overnight stay in Hoi An.
- After breakfast at the hotel, our driver will pick you up and transfer you to the airport for your morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
- Upon arrival, our English-speaking local guide (ESG) and driver will welcome you and transfer you to Cu Chi Tunnels, located 75 km from Ho Chi Minh City.
- 12:30 – 13.30: Enjoy lunch.
- 13.30 – 15.00: Discover the Cu Chi Tunnels, an impressive complex of underground tunnels spanning over 200 km. Explore the main tunnel system and its branches connecting to hideouts, shelters, and more. You’ll have the chance to crawl through this fascinating underground network.
(Image: Tourist try eating Cassava in Cu Chi Tunnels – Ho Chi Minh – Vietnam)
- 17:00: Return to Ho Chi Minh City for dinner at a local restaurant.
- Transfer to your hotel in the city center. Enjoy free time to explore Ho Chi Minh City at night
- 08:30: Our guide will pick you up at your hotel in central Ho Chi Minh City and transfer you to My Tho (70 km ~ 1,5 hour).
- 10:30: Arrive at My Tho pier and board a boat to Unicorn Island
- See the bee farm drinking honey tea
- Visit coconut candy workshop
- Taste Vietnamese fruits and enjoy traditional music
- Ride a horse cart along the island roadside
- Take the rowing boat on the canal under the shade of the coconut water.
- 12:00: Head to Phoenix Island to see the crocodile farm and golden fish pond. Enjoy lunch featuring elephant fish, sticky rice, morning glory, and fish soup.
- 13:30: Return by boat to My Tho boat station and transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City.
- 15:30: Start your walking city tour at Reunification Palace, a historic site embodying Vietnam’s past and now serving as a museum. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Post Office, both creating a picturesque scene of architectural beauty. Next, admire City Hall and the grandeur of the Opera House, showcasing the city’s heritage. Conclude your tour at the bustling, alive with energy and local specialties.
- 18:30 – 20:00: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, then transfer back to your hotel. Feel free to explore Ho Chi Minh City at night. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh.
(Image: 1. Notre Dame Cathedral; 2. Opera House – Ho Chi Minh – Vietnam)
(Image: 1. Ben Thanh Market; 2. Ho Chi Minh Post Office – Ho Chi Minh – Vietnam)
- After breakfast at the hotel, our driver will pick you up and transfer you to the airport for your flight to Phu Quoc.
- Upon arrival at Phu Quoc Airport, your English-speaking guide (ESG) will greet you and transfer you for a lunch.
- Check-in at your resort and enjoy some time to relax.
- Afternoon: Visit Dinh Ba and Dinh Cau Temples, a picturesque landmark perched on a rocky promontory by the sea, known as a place of worship for fishermen.
- 16:30 – 18:00: Transfer to Sunset Sanato Beach Club, one of the most beautiful spots to enjoy the sunset and take stunning photos.
- Have dinner and go back to the hotel/resort and overnight in Phu Quoc.
(Image: Sunset Sanato Beach Club – Phu Quoc – Vietnam)
- 08:30: After breakfast at the hotel, you will be picked up by a shared bus and our tour guide.
- Visit 4 islands in the South of Phu Quoc. Hon Thom Island beckons with its cable car ride and pristine beaches; May Rut Island allures visitors with its untouched beauty and excellent snorkeling spots; Hon Dam Island offers tranquility and secluded coves, while Hon Dua is renowned for its coconut groves and calm, turquoise waters.
(Image: Paddle boarding in Phu Quoc)
- Enjoy lunch on the island.
- Experience the Hon Thom Cable Car, which offers stunning views of Phu Quoc from above. This world-record cable car spans 7,899.9 meters and is a must-try for visitors.
- 17:00: The bus and tour guide will drop you off at your hotel/resort.
- Free time at night, overnight in Phu Quoc.
- After breakfast, free at leisure, check out.
- Our driver will transfer you to Phu Quoc airport for your next flight.
Thank you for joining us, and have a nice trip!
Inclusion:
- Good air-conditioned private 7-seat car (2-3 pax)/ 16-seat minivan (4-7 pax)/ 29-seat coach (8-14) as per the above itinerary.
- 02 bottles of water (500ml) per pax per visiting day.
- English-speaking local guides (13 days, exclude day 6 to Ha Long, day 15, and day 16) as mentioned in the above itinerary.
***Surcharge (if any):
- Thailand/French-speaking local guide (USD 6/day/group)
- German/Mandarin-Chinese/Korean-speaking local guide (USD 20/day/group);
- Spanish-speaking local guide (USD 40/day/group).
- Accommodation including breakfast (B) with free bicycles in Hoi An.
- All entrance fee for sightseeing: Temple of Literature, Ngoc Son Temple, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, One Pillar pagoda, Duong Lam ancient village, Cat Cat village, Lao Chai – Ta Van, Thung Nham bird park, Tam Coc, Mua Cave, Hoa Lu old capital, Marble Mountains, Tra Que village, Hoi An ancient town, Cam Thanh coconut forest, Cu Chi Tunnel, Reunification Palace.
- Cable car round trip to Fansipan.
- Coffee in Hanoi Railway Street.
- Standard ticket for Vietnamese water puppet show.
- Ha Long cruise package 2D1N including 02 lunches, 01 dinner and 01 breakfast with entrance tickets + sharing tour guide + transfer by sharing limousine-bus Ha Noi – Ha Long.
- Ba Na Hills round-trip cable car including buffet lunch on day 9.
- Biking to Tra Que village.
- Night boat with floating lanterns in Hoi An river.
- Coffee at Hoi An old brick kiln.
- Boat trip and cooking class in Cam Thanh coconut forest.
- Boat to explore Unicorn Island, Phoenix Island.
- Entrance ticket for Sunset Sanato Beach club.
- Group joining tour: Islands Excursion and Hon Thom Cable Car including English-speaking tour guide on day 15.
- Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (L: Lunch; D: Dinner):
*11 lunches on day 1,2,3,4,5,8,10,11,12,13,14
*11 dinners on day 1,2,3,4,5,7,8,10,12,13,14.
- Seafood dinner on day 9
Exclusion:
- Bank transfer fees
- Early check-in and late check-out at hotels
- Surcharge for peak seasons and mandatory dinners at hotels (if applicable)
- Travel insurance
- Vietnam visa (the passport must be valid for over 6 months with 3 blank pages)
- Debay wine cellar, wax museum ticket in Ba Na Hills.
- Personal expenses
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary, and beverages during meals
- Airfare (if applicable)
- Tips for guides and drivers (suggested: $3-5 per person per day). Tipping is optional and should reflect the quality of service received.
Children Policy:
- The child rate applies to one child sharing a twin or double room with two adults.
- For infants (<04 years old): free of charge, except domestic ticket cost.
- 04 – 11 years old without bed: 50% of the adult rate.
- 04 – 11 years old with extra bed: 75% of the adult rate.
- 04 – 11 years old in twin share: 90% of the adult rate.
Payment & Deposit Terms:
To ensure that all parties meet their respective obligations, we outline our standard payment terms below:
Deposit: A confirmation and invoice will be sent to the customer within 24 hours of receiving the booking. A deposit of 50% of the total tour cost or full payment is required, depending on the specific tour arrangements and the terms outlined in the invoice. Payment can be made through any of our online payment methods.
Final Payment: The deadline for the remaining balance will depend on the services booked and will be communicated by our travel consultant and via the invoice during the booking process.
Cancellations & Refund Policy:
Each local supplier and partner has its own specific cancellation terms, which will determine the applicable cancellation fees. Detailed information about these policies can be found on the individual service pages, particularly under the Rate & Availability section. If a customer decides to discontinue the tour midway, no refund or exchange will be issued. Additionally, no compensation will be provided for any services that remain unused during the tour.
Tours (from 4 days and above)
- More than 90 days before arrival date: FREE of charge.
- From 60 to 90 days before arrival date: 20% of the total rate.
- From 30 to 59 days before arrival date: 30% of the total rate.
- From 15 to 29 days before arrival date: 50% of the total rate.
- From 7 to 14 days before arrival date: 70% of the total rate.
- Less than 7 days before arrival date or no-show: 100% of the total rate.
Important notes:
Immigration process:
For visa-on-arrival: Present a valid passport and, if applicable, an entry letter to the customs officer for visa stamping.
For e-visa holders: Present your valid passport and e-visa (or a printed copy) at the immigration checkpoint. No stamp is required.
Weather:
Vietnam’s unique geography creates a range of weather patterns, with both tropical and temperate zones. The best weather nationwide is from March to May, so if you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, consider visiting during this time for the most enjoyable weather.
📍 Regional Weather Guide
Northern Vietnam: In the northern areas of Vietnam there are four seasons. Recommended time to travel to North Vietnam: March – April & August – November
- December – March: Cool to cold, misty, cloudy
- April – June: Warm to hot, clear skies, sunny
- June – August: Stormy, hot, humid
- September – November: Mix of sun and clouds, warm to cool
Central Vietnam: This area has only two seasons: dry and rainy. The weather varies due to the Truong Son mountain range, which strongly influences local climates.
For example, crossing Hai Van Pass between Hue and Da Nang brings a noticeable shift in temperature and weather.
Recommended travel time: February – August
- Hue:
- September-February: Cool to cold, rainy, cloudy
- March-August: Warm to hot, sunny, clear skies
- Hoi An, Da Nang:
- September – January: Rainy, cool to cold, cloudy
- February – August: Warm to hot, sunny, clear skies
- Nha Trang:
- September to December: Cool, rainy, cloudy
- January – August: Hot, sunny, clear skies
Southern Vietnam: Southern Vietnam has a tropical climate, so it stays warm all year round — typically from 25°C to 35°C.
Recommended travel time: November – April
- HCM City & Mekong Delta:
- May to November: Sporadic rainfall, hot, humid
- December to April: Clear skies, hot, sunny
- Phu Quoc Island:
- July – September: Stormy, hot, humid
- October – June: Clear skies, hot, sunny
📍 Pack Accordingly: Pack lightweight clothing for hot weather and a raincoat or umbrella for the rainy season.
Note when checking in for domestic flights in Vietnam:
- When checking in, please bring: Passport (valid for more than 06 months). For expatriates and foreigners entering with a separate visa, please bring your passport, visa, and customs declaration when traveling
- You should be at the airport 90 minutes before departure time and carry light luggage, not too bulky.
- Please bear the incurred costs and responsibility if you have a request to change the itinerary, flight date and time, or if there is incorrect information according to the regulations of the airlines.
- Do not leave sharp objects, knives, scissors, etc. or liquids in your hand luggage. All power banks should be placed in hand luggage.
- Self-consciously preserve your luggage during the trip (at hotels and attractions). Keep all important documents related to immigration procedures, such as airline tickets, passports, cash, and valuable personal items, in the safety box provided at your hotel. Avoid leaving them in your room or locking them in your suitcase in case of theft. Consider taking photos of all identification and important information to save on your phone for easy access if needed.
- Vietnam Lovely Travel will not be responsible if the carrier and aviation security refuse to transport due to error in the above information.
- Some order and details in the program may change to suit the objective situation (weather, traffic, etc…).
- You should bring special medicine (according to a doctor’s prescription) if you are being treated for a chronic illness.
Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling in Vietnam?
Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Vietnam Lovely Travel are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your tour guide on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
Money matters:
When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveler is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while traveling.
- Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the currency of Vietnam.
- ATMs: Check if your card is compatible with local ATMs before traveling to Vietnam. Using an ATM card will help ensure safety during your travel. However, you should also bring a small amount of cash for services, shopping, meals, etc., when needed.
- Scam alert: Be careful of street vendors and local markets using similar colors of 500,000 VND and 20,000 VND bills to scam visitors.
- Counterfeit money: There are some counterfeit banknotes in circulation in Vietnam, particularly for the 500,000 VND, the biggest Vietnam currency note, so you should only exchange money at reputable places or consult your tour guide for advice.
- Keep small bills on hand: Many vendors and small businesses may not have change for larger denominations, so it’s helpful to keep smaller bills on hand.
- Notify your bank: If you plan to use your credit or debit card in Vietnam, notify your bank beforehand to avoid any issues with your account being flagged for suspicious activity.
- USD to VND current exchange rate: 1 USD ~ 25,000 – 26,000 VND (change cash in jewelry shops, the exchange rates are often better than in a bank or at the airport).
- QR code payment: widely accepted in many urban areas in Vietnam.
- Are credit cards accepted widely in Vietnam?
USD and Major credit cards are widely accepted at large shops, hotels and restaurants in Vietnam. However, smaller vendors, family-run eateries, markets, and rural areas may only accept cash. Carry enough cash for as a backup, especially outside cities.
Dining: Please inform your operator or guide in advance if you have any dietary restrictions or food allergies.
Phone and internet access:
- With the modern world you may want to bring along tablets or smartphones for the children to document their adventure – there are a wide variety of apps out there which we suggest downloading before you depart. There will be opportunities to charge (just make sure you bring the correct adapter) and there will be wi-fi available in most of the hotels/restaurants on the tour, although it will probably not be at the speeds you are used to at home and it won’t be available everywhere.
- E-sim can be a good option for you (less than 10 USD/sim card)
Electricity and adapter: 220V – 50Hz. If you are using different ones, our local guide can help you buy an adapter for not more than 1 USD.
Accommodation:
- Check-in: Usually between 14:00–15:00 (can be later on weekends, in peak seasons, or at 5-star hotels).
- Check-out: Typically before 11:00–12:00.
- Early check-in & late check-out: Subject to room availability and hotel policy; charges may apply.
- Amenities: Basic amenities like a toothbrush, towel, comb, hairdryer, and iron are provided in all hotels.
Laundry: Local laundry services outside the hotel may offer better rates. However, for expensive clothing, it’s safer to use hotel laundry to avoid any risk of damage.
Shopping: At local markets, bargaining is common and expected. You can often negotiate 10–30% off the initial price for local goods.
Safety: To protect your belongings, always keep your bag or purse in front of you, especially in crowded areas.
Business Hours:
- Offices: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday to Friday). Most are closed on Saturdays.
- Shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues: Typically open from 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily.
Is tipping compulsory in Vietnam?
Tipping is not mandatory or a common custom in Vietnam. However, it is greatly appreciated by service staff—such as waiters, hotel porters, drivers, and tour guides—especially when they provide exceptional service. Even a small tip can make a big difference and is considered a gesture of kindness and respect.
Thoa D
Best trip that we have in our life. Thank you so much Trong21/09/2024
Thank you so much Trong. We have enjoyed a lot in our trip. The nature, peope, food, accommodation, everything...Trong took care us a lot. A big thank from my family
Tasha B
Very good!22/02/2024
My family has booked a tour to Phu Quoc, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue. This tour is very fun and going in September has very favorable weather. In general, you should book because the price is affordable but the quality is excellent. Cmar thanks the company very much.
Angel E
Very good organized and flexible23/09/2023
We booked several tours with this agency. They have a lot of flexibility and they adept to your needs. The staff is great and they found us the best choices, the cruise in halong bay was cheaper and better that the regular one, the hotel of Ninh Vinh amd the excursion was astonished,... They really add value to the money you spend here.
Smilar Product
Luxe Cruising: Ha Long to Lan Ha Bay (3 Days)
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Destination:Ha Long Cat Ba 
Travel Style:Classic Local Life Family Beach Luxury Active & Nature 
Duration: 3 Days
Sail through Ha Long and Lan Ha’s emerald waters in refined luxury. Relax in a balcony suite, kayak past limestone cliffs, visit hidden villages, and savor sunset moments on a 5-star cruise made for indulgence
- Cruise through the stunning limestone landscapes of Ha Long Bay and immerse yourself in the calm, crystal-clear waters of Lan Ha Bay.
- Paddle your kayak through the tranquil Tra Bau area, then take a refreshing swim surrounded by towering karst cliffs.
- Visit Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island and stroll through lush greenery nestled between dramatic limestone mountains.
- Discover the unspoiled beauty of Cat Ba Island and its hidden caves, rich ecosystems, and peaceful surroundings.
- Try your luck with night squid fishing and unwind on deck while admiring the bay under a starlit sky.
Starting point: Ha Noi
Finishing point: Ha Noi
48 hours in Northern Vietnam (3 Days)
- Destination:Ha Long Ha Noi Ninh Binh
- Travel Style:Classic Family Beach Active & Nature
- Duration: 3 Days
In just 48 hours, wander through Hanoi’s vibrant soul, glide past Ninh Binh’s dreamy karst rivers, and sail among Ha Long Bay’s timeless limestone giants:
- Uncover the vibrant energy of Hanoi, where ancient traditions meet modern life in bustling markets and historic landmarks.
- Journey to Ninh Binh and explore the UNESCO-listed Trang An Landscape Complex, drifting through limestone karsts and tranquil waterways.
- Step back in time at Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, and admire centuries-old temples of the Dinh and Le dynasties.
- Marvel at the natural wonder of Ha Long Bay as you cruise past towering islets and savor a fresh seafood lunch onboard.
Starting point: Ha Noi
Finishing point: Ha Noi
Northern Bliss: Nature & Heritage (7 Days)
- Destination:Ha Long Ha Noi Sapa
- Travel Style:Local Life Classic Family Beach Active & Nature
- Duration: 7 days
Unveil the charms of Northern Vietnam through unforgettable experiences:
- Explore Hanoi’s rich heritage by visiting iconic sites like the Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the bustling streets of the Old Quarter.
- Savor the flavors of Hanoi with authentic street food such as Bún Chả, Bánh Cuốn, and fresh draft beer.
- Discover the beauty of Sapa by trekking through the terraced fields of Muong Hoa Valley, visiting Cat Cat Village, and ascending Fansipan Peak by cable car.
- Sail through the emerald waters of Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay, uncover hidden caves, and take in stunning sunsets from the deck.
Starting point: Ha Noi
Finishing point: Ha Noi
Vietnam’s Heritage Sip, Paddle, Dzo! (9 Days)
- Destination:Ha Long Ha Noi Hoi An Ninh Binh Da Nang
- Travel Style:Classic Local Life Family Beach Active & Nature
- Duration: 9 days
This journey takes you deep into the cultural soul, natural beauty, and local flavor of Vietnam. It’s not just a tour; it’s a celebration of heritage, fun, and connection:
- Visit Hanoi Railway Street and then enjoy a cup of coffee while waiting for the train to pass through.
- Embark on a luxurious cruise aboard to Lan Ha Bay – Ha Long and enjoy a sunset party on board.
- Explore home of many diverse bird species at Thung Nham Bird Park – Ninh Binh
- Cruise through the scenic complex, featuring limestone karsts, caves, and temples at Trang An Landscape Complex
- Snorkel in Cham Island’s pristine waters and glide through Cam Thanh Coconut Forest on a basket boat.
- Glide above the clouds at Ba Na Hills, stroll along the iconic Golden Bridge, then wander through the ancient streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Starting point: Ha Noi
Finishing point: Da Nang
Northern Vietnam In Your Eyes (8 Days)
- Destination:Pu Luong Ha Noi Ha Long Cat Ba
- Travel Style:Family Classic Local Life Beach Active & Nature
- Duration: 8 days
Unveil the charms of Northern Vietnam through various thrilling experiences:
- Explore Vietnam’s vibrant capital, visiting historic landmarks and enjoying authentic street food in the bustling Old Quarter.
- Cycle through the serene Mai Chau Valley, taking in the stunning rice terraces and experiencing the local culture.
- Discover the natural beauty of Pu Luong, with its ethnic villages, bamboo forests, and mesmerizing waterfalls.
- Cruise through the emerald waters of Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay, exploring hidden caves and enjoying breathtaking sunsets on the deck.
Starting point: Ha Noi
Finishing point: Ha Noi