Discover the Best of Vietnam In 18 Days – All About Vietnam

Welcome to Hanoi! Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, your Vietnam In 18 Days journey begins with a smooth transfer directly to your hotel. Use this time to rest and recharge after your long flight.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore the historic charm of the capital at your own pace. Whether you choose to wander through the hidden alleys of the Old Quarter or enjoy a quiet sunset by Hoan Kiem Lake, this is the perfect introduction to your 18 day Vietnam tour.

• Note: Please keep in mind that standard check-in begins at 14:00.

• Meal: N/A

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Morning: Exploring the Heart of the Capital Wake up to the sounds of Hanoi and enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel. At approximately 8:00 AM, your guide will meet you to begin a captivating half-day city tour. As a key highlight of your Vietnam private tour 18 days, this morning is dedicated to the city’s most iconic landmarks:

• Temple of Literature: Step back in time at Vietnam’s first university, a stunning symbol of Confucian heritage.

• One Pillar Pagoda: Marvel at this unique architectural feat and hear the legendary story behind its creation.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Pay your respects at the final resting place of the nation’s beloved leader (viewed from the exterior).

• West Lake & Tran Quoc Pagoda: Enjoy the scenic views of Hanoi’s largest lake and visit one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Vietnam.

To wrap up the morning, we will sit down for a delightful authentic Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, a perfect way to taste the flavors included in your 18 day Vietnam tour.

Afternoon: Leisure & Local Art The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. You might choose to hunt for souvenirs in the Old Quarter or relax at a lakeside café.

At 18:00, regroup for a quintessential Northern Vietnamese experience: a Traditional Water Puppet Show. This ancient art form is a “must-see” during your Vietnam In 18 Days journey, bringing folklore and village life to life on a liquid stage.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Enjoy a full day of free time to soak up the atmosphere of the capital at your own pace. Whether you choose to revisit your favorite street food stalls or relax by the lake, this flexible schedule ensures your Vietnam In 18 Days experience is as relaxing as it is adventurous.

In the evening, your tour guide and driver will provide a private escort to the Hanoi railway station. They will assist you with the check-in process for your overnight soft sleeper train to Sapa. This iconic rail journey is a highlight of our 18 day Vietnam tour, offering a unique way to travel through the countryside while you sleep.

• • Meal: Breakfast (B)

  • Accommodation: Overnight on soft sleeper train (shared cabin)

Morning: Arrival and the Ascent to Sapa Arrive early at Lao Cai station, where your private guide and driver will meet you for the scenic hour-long ascent to Sapa. As you climb higher, the grandeur of the mountains and endless rice terraces reveal themselves after every turn. This breathtaking transition into the highlands is a favorite part of the Vietnam In 18 Days itinerary. Before we begin our trek, enjoy a local breakfast in Sapa town and take in the fresh mountain air.

The Trek: Y Linh Ho – Lao Chai – Ta Van Start your hiking journey toward the village of Lao Chai. Walking along small paths that cut through golden rice fields, you will encounter the friendly H’mong and Red Dao people. A truly special highlight of this 18 day Vietnam tour is the visit to a local “granny”—the last surviving artisan in the neighborhood who still uses traditional beeswax and indigo to create authentic Hmong textiles. This is a rare opportunity to learn about their ancient culture and way of life firsthand.

Afternoon: Vistas of the Dzay People Continue your trek to Ta Van Village, the picturesque home of the Dzay people. Perched high above the river, the village offers some of the most stunning views in the region, overlooking the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. As you stroll through the village, you’ll find the local people are incredibly hospitable, often inviting visitors into their homes to share a story.

Finally, we will transfer you back to the center of Sapa town to relax and enjoy your evening at leisure.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Sapa

Morning: The Misty Trails of Sapa Valley Today is devoted to a gentle hike through the Sapa Valley, home to some of the most impressive scenery you will encounter on your 18 day Vietnam tour. As your guide leads you along the Muong Hoa River, watch as the morning mist lifts to reveal breathtaking views of gleaming rice terraces.

The trail takes you through the Black Hmong village of Lao Chai before reaching Ta Van Village. This area is a fascinating cultural melting pot of Hmong, Giay, and Red Dao residents—the latter of whom are renowned for their ancient knowledge of forest herbs and natural medicines.

Afternoon: Ancient Traditions and Forest Wonders During our journey, we will take a moment to view mysterious ancient rock carvings left by tribes from centuries ago. Afterward, enjoy a carefully packed picnic lunch surrounded by nature.

The trek concludes at Giang Ta Chai Village, a Red Dao settlement nestled near a serene bamboo forest and a hidden waterfall. Before our vehicle picks us up, you’ll have the unique opportunity to try a Red Dao herbal medicinal bath—a perfect way to soothe your muscles on this Vietnam tour package 18 days.

In the evening, we depart Sapa for Lao Cai station to board the overnight train, bringing you back to the vibrant city life of Hanoi.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Picnic Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Overnight on soft sleeper train (shared cabin)

Morning: From the Capital to the Coast Upon your early arrival at the train station, our driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for a refreshing breakfast. At 8:30 AM, your adventure continues with a scenic three-hour drive to Halong Bay. As you travel through the Red River Delta, enjoy the views of local communities and lush rice farms—a quintessential sight on your Vietnam tour package 18 days.

Afternoon: Cruising Among the Karsts

• 12:30 PM: Board your cruise ship, where you will receive a warm welcome and a brief safety orientation.

• Lunch with a View: Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese buffet lunch as we set sail into the heart of Halong Bay, a New Seven Wonder of the World. We will pass iconic landmarks such as Dog Stone Islet, Fighting Cock, and Coconut Island.

• Discovery & Adventure: Visit the Tung Sau area to learn the fascinating secrets of pearl farming or take to the water for some kayaking.

• Titov Island: Relax on the white sands of Titov Beach for a swim, or hike to the island’s summit for a breathtaking panoramic view of the bay—the perfect photo opportunity for your Vietnam itinerary 18 days.

Evening: Sunset & Cultural Flavors As the sun begins to set, return to the boat for a relaxing “Happy Hour” on the sundeck. Join our chef for a traditional cooking class, where you’ll learn the art of making authentic Vietnamese spring rolls.

The day concludes with a Deluxe Vietnamese BBQ Set Menu dinner. For the rest of the evening, you can relax under the stars, play games, or try your luck at squid fishing before retiring to your cabin.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)

• Accommodation: Overnight on a luxury cruise in Halong Bay

Morning: Sunrise on the Bay & Sung Sot Cave Begin your morning at 6:30 AM with a rejuvenating Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the limestone karsts. After a scenic breakfast in the dining area, we depart by tender to explore Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave). As a highlight of this 18 day Vietnam tour, you will climb approximately 100 steps to witness one of the bay’s largest and most magnificent caverns, filled with prehistoric stalactites and stalagmites.

Afternoon: Return to Hanoi & Flight South Return to the ship to check out and settle your bill. Enjoy a final buffet brunch while cruising back toward Tuan Chau Wharf. Upon disembarking around noon, your driver will be waiting to take you back to Hanoi.

This transition marks an exciting shift in your Vietnam itinerary 18 days as you head to the airport for your flight to Central Vietnam. A private driver will pick you up from your Hanoi hotel and transfer you to Noi Bai Airport (approx. 45-minute drive).

Evening: Welcome to the Ancient Town Upon landing at the airport (Da Nang), you will be warmly welcomed by our professional guide and driver for a private transfer to your hotel in Hoi An. Take the evening to relax or take your first stroll through the lantern-lit streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Note: For domestic flights, please ensure arrival at the airport 2 hours before departure.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Brunch/Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

Morning: Exploring the Forbidden Purple City After breakfast, dive deep into the imperial history of Vietnam with a visit to the Ancient Citadel. As a centerpiece of your Vietnam tour package 18 days, this sprawling complex served as the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. Although the “Vietnamese-American War” left its mark on the grounds, you can still catch a hauntingly beautiful glimpse of royal life within the Forbidden Purple City. Wander through the restored pavilions and imagine the centuries of ceremony that took place within these stone walls.

Afternoon: A Tale of Two Emperors The highlight of the afternoon is a fascinating “compare and contrast” tour of two royal resting places, showcasing the evolving styles found on an 18 day Vietnam tour:

• Tu Duc Tomb: Constructed between 1864 and 1867, this tomb is a masterpiece of rustic harmony. It features a sprawling landscape dominated by a large lake, frangipani trees, and traditional wooden architecture, reflecting the poetic and romantic soul of the Emperor.

• Khai Dinh Tomb: In stark contrast, this tomb represents a unique hybrid of European and Vietnamese beauty standards. Built with concrete and decorated with intricate glass and ceramic mosaics, it offers a more modern, opulent, and Western-influenced aesthetic.

After a day of historical discovery, return to your hotel to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Hue city.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hue City

Morning: One of the World’s Greatest Ocean Roads After breakfast, we depart Hue for a 2.5-hour journey south toward the coast. This leg of your Vietnam In 18 Days itinerary features the legendary Hai Van Pass. Known as one of the most beautiful ocean roads in the world, the pass offers sweeping views of the sparkling sea and lush green mountains. Keep your camera ready as we navigate the winding roads toward the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An.

Afternoon: Leisure and World-Class Tailoring Upon arrival, you will find a remarkably well-preserved town filled with quirky boutiques, antique teahouses, and world-class restaurants. The rest of your day is free at leisure to discover the narrow, lantern-lit streets by foot or on a bicycle.

Hoi An is as famous for its atmosphere as it is for its expert tailors. This is a favorite stop on an 18 day Vietnam tour because travelers can have custom-made clothing, bags, or shoes crafted in as little as 24 hours—at a fraction of the cost back home. If you are interested, we can arrange a visit to one of the city’s premier tailors so you can begin designing your own bespoke outfits.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

Morning: A Journey Through the Trading Port At 9:00 AM, your guide will meet you for an immersive tour of Hoi An’s Old Town. As a highlight of your Vietnam itinerary 18 days, this UNESCO World Heritage site remains exceptionally well-preserved, reflecting a unique fusion of indigenous and foreign cultures.

• Cam Pho Communal House: Start at one of the city’s oldest communal houses, a historic site of worship and cultural exchange between local, Chinese, and Japanese merchants.

• Chua Cau (The Japanese Covered Bridge): Walk across this iconic 17th-century bridge, which historically connected the Japanese and Chinese quarters of the city.

• Quan Thang Ancient House: Admire the intricate architecture and fine sculptures created by the master craftsmen of the nearby Kim Bong carpentry village.

• Phuc Kien (Fujian) Assembly Hall: Explore this vibrant hall dedicated to the goddess of the sea, featuring ornate gates, colorful fountains, and magnificent carved dragons.

Afternoon: The Scents of Tra Que Village The second half of your day takes you into the lush countryside to visit Tra Que farming village. Known for its organic produce, the village is famous for aromatic herbs like mint and basil. During this part of your Vietnam In 18 Days journey, you will:

• Learn about traditional vegetable cultivation and the medicinal uses of local plants.

• Interact with friendly farmers and capture memorable photos of the emerald-green fields.

Following the tour, return to the city center. You will have the rest of the day free to relax at a riverside café or head to the beach for a peaceful sunset.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

Morning: Journey to the Champa Kingdom At 8:00 AM, your guide and driver will pick you up for a fascinating half-day excursion into the sacred valley of the Champa Kingdom. Located just 40 km from Hoi An, My Son Sanctuary was once the intellectual and religious heart of the Cham people and a royal burial ground for their monarchs.

As a centerpiece of your Vietnam In 18 Days itinerary, this UNESCO World Heritage site features 70 ancient structures built between the 7th and 13th centuries. You will have the chance to:

• Explore Unique Architecture: Wander through ruined temples made of red brick and sandstone, held together by ancient techniques that still baffle modern architects.

• Cultural Insights: Listen as your guide explains the spiritual connection between the Cham people and their Hindu-inspired monuments.

• Traditional Performance: Witness a mesmerizing Champa dancing show, where performers bring the ancient traditions of the kingdom back to life through graceful movement and music.

Afternoon: Relaxation and Coastal Vibes Following a delicious local lunch, you will be transported back to Hoi An. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Many travelers on an 18 day Vietnam tour use this time to head to An Bang Beach to relax on the sand, swim in the warm East Sea, or enjoy a refreshing coconut at a beachfront lounge.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

Today is yours to enjoy entirely at your leisure. After a relaxed breakfast at your hotel, the day is an open canvas for you to experience the magic of Central Vietnam in whatever way you choose. As a flexible day within your Vietnam private tour 18 days, you can choose to be as active or as relaxed as you like.

Recommended Activities for Your Free Day:

• Beach Bliss: Take a short bicycle ride or taxi to An Bang Beach to soak up the sun and enjoy fresh seafood by the water.

• Culinary Arts: Join a local cooking class to learn the secrets of Hoi An specialties like Green Mango Salad or Rice Pancakes.

• Handicraft Workshops: Try your hand at making your own silk lantern or traditional pottery in the nearby craft villages.

• Café Hopping: Simply wander the “Yellow City,” stopping for a famous Vietnamese iced coffee while watching the world go by.

Whether you are finishing your final tailor fittings or hunting for the perfect souvenir, Hoi An’s charm will surely make this one of the most memorable days of your journey.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

Morning: Last Moments in Hoi An Enjoy your final morning in the peaceful atmosphere of Hoi An. You have free time to enjoy a slow breakfast, take one last stroll through the lantern-lit streets, or pick up any final custom-made items from your tailor. This flexibility is a key part of our Vietnam tour package 18 days, ensuring you can travel at your own pace.

Afternoon: Flight to Ho Chi Minh City At the scheduled time, our driver will pick you up for your transfer to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon).

Upon landing at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional guide and driver in the pickup lobby. During the 30-minute drive to your hotel, your guide will provide a brief introduction to this energetic city, highlighting the unique landmarks you’ll encounter on your Vietnam private tour 18 days.

Evening: Settle into “The Pearl of the Far East” After checking into your hotel (available from 14:00), the remainder of the day is yours to rest or begin exploring. You might choose to visit a nearby rooftop bar for a panoramic view of the skyline or dive into the bustling atmosphere of the Ben Thanh Market.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Morning: The Underground City of Cu Chi At 8:00 AM, your Vietnam In 18 Days journey continues as you depart for the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels. This extensive underground network, stretching over 250km, served as a hidden city for the Viet Cong during the war.

• Experience the History: Discover how these tunnels were meticulously hand-dug over two decades using only basic tools—a testament to the resilience explored throughout your 18 day Vietnam tour.

• Guided Exploration: Your private guide will lead you through specialized sections, including living areas, kitchens, and command centers.

• Ben Duoc Memorial: You will also visit the Ben Duoc Memorial Temple, a serene site built to honor those who fought in this historic region.

Midday: The Colorful World of Caodaism Next, we venture to the awe-inspiring Cao Dai Temple, one of the most vibrant and sacred attractions included in this Vietnam private tour 18 days. Caodaism is a unique Vietnamese religion that beautifully blends elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and Roman Catholicism.

• Cultural Immersion: We aim to arrive in time to witness the mesmerizing midday mass. Watching the followers in their colorful robes gather for prayer is a profound cultural experience that many consider a highlight of their Vietnam In 18 Days itinerary.

Afternoon: Local Flavors & Relaxation Savor a delicious lunch at an authentic local restaurant before returning to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. With the rest of the afternoon free, you can reflect on the day’s powerful history or dive back into the city’s modern energy.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Morning: From Metropolis to the Mighty Delta Leaving the high-rises of Ho Chi Minh City behind, we head deep into the heart of the Mekong Delta. As a signature experience of your Vietnam In 18 Days adventure, this region welcomes you with its quaint rural landscapes and immense, winding waterways.

Upon arrival at the Cai Be River Wharf, you will board a boat to explore the local cottage industries. Witness the traditional craftsmanship behind:

• Artisanal Workshops: See how locals create “pop rice,” delicious coconut candy, and delicate rice paper.

• Lush Greenery: Visit a vibrant nursery garden or a peaceful bonsai orchard to see the exotic fruits and flowers that thrive in this fertile soil.

• Local Heritage: Stroll around the island to visit a traditional brick and pottery factory, followed by a performance of Southern Vietnamese folk music, a soulful art form recognized by UNESCO.

Afternoon: Local Flavors and Warm Hospitality Enjoy a home-cooked lunch at a local residence, providing a wonderful opportunity to meet and talk with the delta residents. The people of the Mekong are world-renowned for their friendliness, warmth, and generosity—a highlight for many on an 18 day Vietnam tour.

In the late afternoon, we continue our journey to Can Tho, the largest city in the delta. After checking into your hotel, you can enjoy a relaxing evening by the Ninh Kieu Wharf.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Can Tho

Morning: A Cultural Spectacle on the Water Wake up early for one of the most iconic experiences of your Vietnam In 18 Days journey. We board a traditional rowed sampan to visit the Cai Rang Floating Market (the largest and most famous in the region).

By arriving early, you will witness the most vibrant scene on the river as hundreds of boats gather to trade fresh produce. Look for the long “offering poles” at the front of each boat, which display samples of the fruits or vegetables available for sale. This bustling waterborne commerce is a unique cultural feature of the Mekong Delta and a must-see on any Vietnam itinerary 18 days.

Afternoon: Return to the City After exploring the waterways and enjoying a local breakfast on the river, we begin our journey back to the energetic pulse of Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy a final lunch in the Delta before checking back into your hotel for your last nights in the south.

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Today is yours to embrace the energy of Vietnam’s largest metropolis at your own pace. After a final city breakfast, you have the entire day to dive into the local daily life, hunt for last-minute treasures, or simply relax. As the penultimate day of your Vietnam itinerary 18 days, it’s the perfect time to visit any landmarks you may have missed.

Suggested Ways to Spend Your Day:

• Historical Highlights: Visit the War Remnants Museum or the Reunification Palace to deepen your understanding of the country’s complex past.

• Architectural Wonders: Take a walk to the Saigon Central Post Office and the Notre Dame Cathedral to admire the city’s French colonial heritage.

• Shop Like a Local: Head to Ben Thanh Market or the more local Tan Dinh Market (the “Pink Church” market) to practice your bargaining skills and pick up high-quality coffee or silk.

• Coffee Culture: Spend an hour at a “hidden” cafe in an old apartment building on Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a quintessential Saigonese experience.

Whether you choose to explore the hidden alleys of District 5 (Cholon) or enjoy a luxury afternoon tea, this day ensures your Vietnam In 18 Days journey ends with your own personal touch.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Morning: Last Flavors and Final Memories Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel as you wrap up your incredible Vietnam In 18 Days journey. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for one last stroll through the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City or a quick visit to a local café to soak in the bustling atmosphere of the “Pearl of the Far East.”

Afternoon: Seamless Departure To conclude your 18 day Vietnam tour, a private driver will meet you in the hotel lobby for a convenient transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport. The drive typically takes about 30 minutes, but please keep in mind that during rush hours (07:00 – 08:30 AM and 16:30 – 18:30 PM), the journey may extend to approximately one hour.

Your driver will ensure you arrive at either the international or domestic terminal with plenty of time to check in. As this Vietnam itinerary 18 days comes to an end, we hope you carry home a lifetime of memories, from the misty mountains of Sapa to the golden waterways of the Mekong.

• Important Travel Notes:

  • International Flights: Please arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to departure.

  • Domestic Flights: Please arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to departure.

• Meals: Breakfast (B)