Complete Vietnam

Duration 15 days
Ideal time to visit January–August
Price guide
From
  PP
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Get ready for a captivating two-week tour of Vietnam, starting in the vibrant capital of Hanoi, where you'll delve into its rich history and culinary delights before cruising through the serene Lan Ha Bay onboard a traditional junk ship. Explore the imperial city of Hue's ancient treasures, then wander the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An's enchanting Old Town. Travel south to bustling Ho Chi Minh City to uncover its historical landmarks and dynamic street food scene, before unwinding on the pristine beaches of Nha Trang, where you can bask in the sun or dive into vibrant underwater worlds.

Trip highlights

  • Explore Hanoi by cyclo
  • Spend the night on a traditional junk ship in Lan Ha Bay
  • Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Hue
  • Taste the flavours of Hoi An on a street food tour
  • Discover Vietnam's countryside by bicycle
  • Visit the underground Cu Chi tunnels
  • Cruise the Mekong Delta
  • Relax on a wellness retreat in Nha Trang

Bespoke trips with Jacada

We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:

  • Luxury accommodation throughout
  • Privately guided tours
  • Private transfers
  • Meticulously selected experiences
  • Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
  • Days 1-3 Hanoi
  • Days 3-4 Lan Ha Bay
  • Days 4-6 Hue
  • Days 7-9 Hoi An
  • Days 9-12 Ho Chi Minh
  • Days 12-15 Nha Trang
Complete Vietnam
Price guide
  PP
  • Days 1-3 Hanoi
  • Days 3-4 Lan Ha Bay
  • Days 4-6 Hue
  • Days 7-9 Hoi An
  • Days 9-12 Ho Chi Minh
  • Days 12-15 Nha Trang

Itinerary in detail

Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.

Days 1-3

Discover Hanoi like a local

Your luxury trip starts with two nights in the vibrant Vietnamese capital, Hanoi. With its ochre-coloured buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes, this is a city full of charm. You’ll have our recommendations for sightseeing and restaurant recommendations, and we’ll arrange specialist private excursions.

Exploring Hanoi on a cyclo tour

Discover the charm of Hanoi with its ochre-colored colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards, and serene lakes. Begin your tour at the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an impressive monument crafted from marble and granite, housing the preserved body of ‘Uncle Ho’.

Adjacent to the Mausoleum lies Ho Chi Minh’s residence, offering a glimpse into his life with personal belongings on display, including his bedroom accessible via a staircase. Explore the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, a revered temple in Vietnam.

Then, embark on a captivating hour-long cyclo tour through the lively old quarter, famous for its ‘tunnel’ houses designed to reduce taxes. Navigate the maze of backstreets, gaining insights into everyday life and the country’s rich history along the way.

Top historical sites

Old Quarter

Museum

Temple

Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a vibrant and historic neighborhood nestled within the heart of Vietnam’s capital city.

Characterised by narrow, winding streets and centuries-old architecture, this enchanting district offers a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Each street in the Old Quarter has its own distinct charm, with local markets, traditional pagodas and quaint cafes lining the cobblestone pathways.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Constructed to honour the revered revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, the mausoleum is a symbol of national pride and remembrance.

Surrounded by meticulously manicured gardens and guarded by ceremonial soldiers, the imposing granite structure houses the preserved body of Ho Chi Minh, allowing you to pay your respects to the father of modern Vietnam.

Hanoi Temple of Literature

The Hanoi Temple of Literature, known as ‘Văn Miếu’ in Vietnamese, stands as a testament to Vietnam’s rich cultural and intellectual heritage.

Dating back to the 11th century, this revered complex served as Vietnam’s first national university, dedicated to Confucian teachings and scholarship.

Days 3-4

One night in Lan Ha Bay

Enjoy an overnight journey through the ethereal beauty of Lan Ha Bay. Spend a night aboard a traditional junk ship, awakening to the surreal sight of limestone karsts piercing through the misty dawn, creating an otherworldly panorama. There are few experiences as magical as watching the sunrise from the comfort of your cabin, then watching it sink behind the sparkling water as the day draws to a close.

As your vessel gracefully navigates through the maze of islands, discover secluded bays and pristine, white sandy beaches that beckon you to explore their untouched splendour. Encounter the enchanting floating villages, where life unfolds against the backdrop of emerald waters and towering cliffs. Caves await your exploration and islands invite you to cycle along their shores. Swimming, snorkeling and kayaking give you the chance to embrace the natural wonders that surround.

Days 4-6

Two nights in Hue

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is a city steeped in history, culture and natural beauty. Nestled along the banks of the Perfume River in central Vietnam, Hue served as the political, cultural, and religious center of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. Today, it is renowned for its well-preserved ancient citadel, which houses numerous palaces, temples and fortifications that offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s royal past.

You will explore the town on a private tour, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Imperial City, marvelling at the ornate architecture of the Forbidden Purple City and wandering through the tranquil gardens of the Imperial Tombs scattered throughout the surrounding countryside. Beyond its historical significance, Hue is also celebrated for its vibrant culinary scene, with local specialties such as bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and banh khoai (Hue-style pancakes).

Days 6-9

Three nights in Hoi An

In the ancient town of Hoi An, time seems to stand still amid the well-preserved buildings and cultural treasures. On a walking tour, immerse yourself in the charm of Hoi An’s pedestrianised streets, where the legacy of Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese influences seamlessly blend. Explore old merchants’ houses, each a testament to the town’s rich history and its cosmopolitan past. Marvel at the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, an emblem of Hoi An’s enduring allure.

Make it mine

On foot

By bicycle

On the water

Street food walking tour

Follow your private guide on a personalised street food walking tour in Hoi An.

Venture deep into the labyrinthine streets to discover Cao Lau, a regional specialty of chewy noodles, succulent slices of pork, and crispy croutons bathed in a fragrant broth.

Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in savory Vietnamese pancakes, Banh Xeo, filled with shrimp, bean sprouts, and aromatic herbs, cooked to crispy perfection.

Along the way, you will get the opportunity to interact with friendly locals and learn about the cultural significance behind each dish.

Countryside cycling tour

Take a short boat trip across the river from Hoi before setting off on a cycling excursion along tranquil inland trails, where you’ll witness the craftsmanship involved in crafting wooden river boats, uncover the intricate art of weaving colorful Hoi An sleeping mats and experience the thrill of riding in traditional Vietnamese basket boats.

En route, you’ll observe local workers tending to rice fields, while immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and encountering hospitable locals.

Personalised fishing trip

Visit a local fishing village and immerse yourself in the lives of the fishermen who call this area home. Wander through the village streets, taking in the sights and sounds of daily life, gaining valuable insights into the community along the way.

Step aboard a traditional local boat and set sail down the picturesque Cua Dai River. Here, you can try your hand at casting Vietnamese fishing nets under the guidance of a seasoned local.

Later, you’ll have the opportunity to navigate the tranquil waterways flanked by coconut palms in a traditional round basket boat, all while delving into the area’s rich history.

Days 9-12

Three nights in Ho Chi Minh

Experience a day in the life of a Saigonese as you weave through the streets of Ho Chi Minh, beginning with the city’s largest flower market, Ho Thi Ky. Marvel at the kaleidoscope of colours as vendors trade in a symphony of roses, lotuses, lilies and orchids. Blend in with the locals, savouring Vietnamese coffee at a leisurely pace while absorbing the atmosphere. Throughout your sojourn here, you’ll have plenty of time explore the intricate web of streets, treating your palate to the opulent flavours and aromatic spices that characterise the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. A piping-hot bowl of traditional pho is a culinary masterpiece crafted with love and passed down through generations.

Make it mine

Cu Chi tunnels

Mekong Delta

Cu Chi Tunnels by speedboat

Explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels via speedboat, an exhilarating alternative to traditional transportation.

Departing from Ho Chi Minh City, the speedboat glides along the scenic Saigon River, offering picturesque views of the Vietnamese countryside along the way.

Upon arrival, delve into the intricate network of tunnels that served as a vital lifeline for Viet Cong guerrillas during the Vietnam War.

Led by your knowledgeable guide, you can crawl through narrow passageways, witness hidden entrances and learn about the ingenious methods employed by the guerrillas to evade capture.

Mekong Delta by speedboat

Embark on an exciting expedition to explore the iconic Mekong Delta region via speedboat, a fast and exhilarating mode of transportation.

Departing from Ho Chi Minh City, the speedboat journey takes you along the bustling Saigon River before venturing into the labyrinthine waterways of the Mekong Delta.

Glide past verdant rice paddies, vibrant floating markets, and quaint villages bustling with activity. Along the way, soak in the picturesque scenery and witness daily life unfold along the riverbanks.

Days 12-15

Unwind in Nha Trang

With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, Nha Trang presents a picturesque setting for relaxation. Spend the next few days basking in the warm tropical sun or indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments at your chosen hotel. For the more adventurous, snorkeling or diving in the vibrant coral reefs of Hon Mun Marine Protected Area provides an exhilarating experience.

“A Wonderful Vietnam Trip‌”

We just returned from a 14 day trip to Vietnam. We traveled from Hanoi to Hue, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City. The pick-ups and transfers were seamless. Our hotels were outstanding at every destination. We loved the entire trip and very much appreciated how responsive and responsible Jacada was in the pre-planning and during…

Published 28th April 2019 on Trustpilot
Mary Ann Lomonaco

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