Vietnam Grand Journey

Duration

14 days

Every other week

on Thursday

Guaranteed

with 2 travellers

Max group size

16 travellers

From GBP £2,318

WHAT TO EXPECT

Discover Vietnam on this 14-day journey, from the misty mountains of Sapa to the vibrant streets of Saigon. Begin with panoramic views atop Fansipan and visits to Red Zao and Black Hmong villages, then return to Hanoi for its bustling Old Quarter and historic landmarks. Explore Ninh Binh’s karst landscapes by boat and cruise Halong Bay’s emerald waters before flying south to Hue’s imperial citadel and Hoi An’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. Continue to Saigon to uncover the Cu Chi Tunnels and journey deep into the Mekong Delta with floating markets and village visits. Conclude in Saigon with its iconic colonial landmarks.

Vietnam Grand Journey

  • Day 1: Hanoi Arrival to Sapa

    Arrive in Hanoi, where your local guide greets you before transferring to the station. Board the comfortable overnight train and begin your onward journey to Sapa. As the train winds its way north, settle in and enjoy the gentle rhythm of travel, anticipating the mountain landscapes and cultural encounters that await in Vietnam’s northwest.

    Overnight in Chapa Express Train (or similar)

  • Day 2: Sapa (B)

    As dawn approaches, arrive early into Lao Cai station, where you will disembark and transfer to your hotel in Sapa town. Along the way, take in the spectacular panoramic mountain scenery. Located in the far northwest of Vietnam in the mountains bordering China, Sapa is home to deep mountain valleys and traditional villages.

    After enjoying a delightful breakfast with your fellow travellers, you will spend your morning admiring the beauty of Sapa on-board the Fansipan Cable Car that will take you 3000m to the upmost peak of Fansipan to explore the many temples as well as admire the natural beauty of Hoang Lien Son and Muong Hoa Valley.

    Overnight in Bamboo Sapa (or similar)

  • Day 3: Sapa (B/L)

    This morning, you will be met at your hotel in Sapa by local guide and driver for a short road transfer heading northwards of Sapa along national road 4C to O Quy Ho with several stops for magnificent landscapes of Fansipan, Sin Chai valley and especially amazing flower and vegetable farms. Then turn right to follow a narrow road for half an hour getting through the wild region with thick rain forest covering walled-up mountains, passing several waterfalls before arriving to Ban Khoang, a village of the Red Zao ethnic peoples who live their unique way of life and well maintain their traditional values. The village looks prosperous thanks to the combination of wet rice cultivation on the terraced fields with cardamom farming under the shade of trees in thick forest. Spend over an hour walking to explore this remote village for a brief understanding of local life.

    Leaving Ban Khoang and process along the road for about 10km to Ta Giang Phinh valley inhabited by the Black Hmong who live in some small villages scattering along a peaceful stream. Enjoy an hour lunch break on the bank of a stream before walking along village path which connects village to village to witness the local's daily activities such as plough and harrow the fields, growing, harvesting or simply housework. In leisure months men often gather to build new houses or repair parts of old ones while women stay home making their traditional costumes. The walk ends mid-afternoon, picked up for the road ride back to Sapa.

    Overnight in Bamboo Sapa (or similar)

  • Day 4: Sapa to Hanoi (B)

    After enjoying breakfast, take advantage of a leisurely morning to explore Sapa at your own pace. Then you begin a scenic return drive through the mountains, heading back towards Hanoi. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes as you descend from Sapa's highlands to the vibrant city of Hanoi. On arrival in Hanoi, transfer to your hotel and enjoy free time until your tour briefing and welcome drinks with your fellow travellers.

    Overnight in Le Jardin Hotel & Spa (or similar)

  • Day 5: Hanoi (B/L)

    Today experience the charm of Hanoi. Drive past some of Hanoi's unique sites including Long Bien Bridge, St Joseph's Church & the Opera House. Continue with a walking tour through the fascinating Old Quarter - 36 ancient streets where you can observe the daily bustle of life around the markets where peddlers continue to trade as they have done for centuries. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Quarter, dedicated to the father of modern Vietnam – Uncle Ho, to see his mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, his 'house on stilts' and the One Pillar Pagoda. A short drive to observe the Citadel & Flag Tower which was made a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2010.

    After lunch at KOTO restaurant continue with a visit to the Temple of Literature - Vietnam's first university now dedicated to Confucian worship. Also visit Tran Quoc and Ngoc Son Temples then the “Hanoi Hilton” - the nickname given to the place where captured U.S pilots were imprisoned during the Vietnam War - now converted into a small museum before returning to your hotel.

    Please note: The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays; The Ho Chi Minh Museum & the Citadel are closed on Mondays. The Presidential Palace can only be viewed from the outside. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum has annual maintenance normally from September for 2 to 3 months and can only be viewed from the outside. All other sites in the Ho Chi Minh complex are still accessible during this period.

    Overnight in Le Jardin Hotel & Spa (or similar)

  • Day 6: Hanoi to Ninh Binh (B)

    This morning travel some 90kms south to you Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam dating back to the 10th century. Visit the famous sanctuary of Dinh Tien Hoang, a former emperor of the Dinh Dynasty, and the temple dedicated to the Le Emperor. Following the demise of the Le dynasty the capital was moved to Ha Noi.

    After lunch (own arrangement) we visit the Trang An Landscape Complex. A spectacular landscape of limestone karst peaks permeated with valleys, many of them partly submerged and surrounded by steep, almost vertical cliffs. Exploration of caves has revealed evidence of traces of human activity over a continuous period of more than 30,000 years. Recently awarded UNESCO world heritage status we take a small boat through this magnificent area. Continue to Ninh Binh and transfer to your hotel.

    Overnight in Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 7: Ninh Binh to Halong Bay (B/L/D)

    Marvel at the towering limestone karsts and vast paddy fields as you make your way from Ninh Binh to Halong City, the gateway to Halong Bay. Dotted with 3,000 limestones karsts, Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s stunning natural wonders. Board a beautifully appointed junk boat and begin to cruise the impressive emerald waters of Halong Bay. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch before stopping to explore the many secluded corners of the bay. In the evening, retreat to your private cabin, or relax on the main deck or at the bar.

    Overnight in Athena Luxury Cruise (or similar)

  • Day 8: Halong Bay to Hue (B)

    Rise early to enjoy a Tai Chi lesson on the sundeck, or choose to relax and take in your final moments in this majestic location before feasting on a delicious buffet brunch. After disembarking, drive back to Hanoi for your onwards flight to the former imperial capital of Hue, situated on the banks of the Perfume River.

    Overnight in Pilgrimage Village Resort (or similar)

  • Day 9: Hue to Hoi An (B)

    Depart your hotel for your half day tour of Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. View the tomb of the fourth emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty Tu Duc set beautifully amongst lakes & frangipani trees. Continue with a stop at Bunker Hill overlooking the Perfume River with panoramic views of the plains that stretch towards the mountains in the west. & then a brief stop at the Tiger Colosseum. Next we explore the impressive home of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors - the Citadel. Graded as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993, much of the Citadel was destroyed during the Tet Offensive in 1968 but is gradually being restored. We finish with a short boat trip to the much-revered Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s oldest and most beautiful.

    After lunch (own arrangement), you will leave Hue for Hoi An. The guide and driver will take you over the beautiful Hai Van Pass - Vietnam's geographical and psychological boundary between north and south. The peak of the pass lies perpetually shrouded in clouds. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel for check-in. This evening is free for you to explore Hoi An at leisure.

    Overnight in Le Pavilion Luxury Resort (or similar)

  • Day 10: Hoi An (B)

    This morning, you will begin your walking tour of this UNESCO world heritage site. Hoi An was once Vietnam’s most active trading centre and over many centuries the Old Town has been largely preserved. The architecture of the city reflects the influence of Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, French and British traders. Hoi An is also the town where French Missionary Alexandre De Rhodes introduced Catholicism to Vietnam as well as the Romanised script that has become the standard Vietnamese script. Today you will be guided on a walking tour through the streets of enchanting Hoi An. You will visit a traditional ancient house, the Hoi An Museum, a Chinese Assembly Hall, Chau Ong pagoda and the Japanese Covered Bridge. The tour will end in Hoi An Ancient Town where you can enjoy more time at your leisure.

    Overnight in Le Pavilion Luxury Resort (or similar)

  • Day 11: Hoi An to Saigon (B)

    Drive to Danang before flying to Saigon, Vietnam’s commercial capital. Upon arrival journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Discover the network of underground tunnels while learning about their role in the Vietnam War. The majority of the network has been recreated above ground however you will have the option to head underground & experience what life was like below the surface. Return to Saigon and spend the remainder of day at leisure enjoying the various sights and sounds of the boisterous city.

    Overnight in Saigon Prince (or similar)

  • Day 12: Saigon to Can Tho (B/ L)

    An early morning departure from your hotel takes you to Cai Be, deep in the heart of the Mekong Delta. Embark on your wooden boat to explore the Mekong Delta’s unique market and, also the symbol of the region, Cai Be floating market. This is not the biggest floating market, but it is good to understand the life of the river, one of the tourist magnets of the Mekong Delta. Just only 2 hours away from Saigon, beautiful countryside sceneries and surprisingly hospitable people are waiting for you. Board our traditional boat at the local Cai Be pier and start cruising along the floating market while sampling our tropical fresh fruits, letting the cool breeze touch your hair, you will find the place a truly destination to spend the day relaxing.

    You will be surprised by the way the locals trade and advertise their products. Disembark the boat temporarily to explore deeper about the local life by visiting the town’s business and craft factories. Have fun with a leisure sampan ride through canals before we transfer you to an ancient house where a delicious home hosted lunch with Mekong’s specialties awaits. After lunch, continue to cruise upstream the Mighty Mekong toward Vinh Long. Along the way, you will observe the typical Mekong Delta rural local life with stops at a local brick & pottery making factory and a floating fish farm before we take you back to the mainland where you will be transferred to your hotel in Can Tho.

    Overnight in TTC Hotel Premium Can Tho (or similar)

  • Day 13: Can Tho to Saigon (B/D)

    Can Tho is a university town on the confluence of three rivers in the heart of the delta. The Mekong Delta was once part of the Khmer Kingdom, and today many ethnic Khmers still live here. You make an early start this morning to visit the floating markets of Cai Rang which are in full swing at 0700. You’ll take a small boat and explore the waterways, which are packed with people who have come from the surrounding rural areas to sell all manner of fruits and vegetables. It’s a lively and colorful scene. Return to Saigon by mid-afternoon for check in to your hotel. This evening, join your group for a farewell dinner.

    Overnight in Saigon Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 14: Saigon Departure (B)

    Depart from your hotel for a morning walking tour through the heart of Saigon’s famous and historic city landmarks including Dong Khoi Street, the Rex Hotel, Municipal Theatre, Hotel de Ville, Nguyen Hue Boulevard, Post Office & Notre Dame Cathedral. Your vehicle will then take you to the site of the former US Embassy (now the US consulate) before visiting the impressive Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum. Later travel to Binh Thanh district and visit Ba Chieu local wholesale market in the East of Saigon, before visiting the Ngoc Hoang (Jade Emperor) Pagoda. This popular 124-year-old pagoda, houses a number of intricate sculptures and woodcarvings. Return to your hotel where your tour ends. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward travels.

  • IMPORTANT RECOMMENDATION

    We recommend arriving in Hanoi one day earlier, depending on your point of origin, to acclimate yourself before the tour begins. The evening train to Sapa departs late, so a pre-night stay in Hanoi can be arranged if needed. Let us know if you'd like assistance with booking an extra night's stay.

Tour Images

Inclusions

  • Insider Experiences

    - Ha Long Bay: cruise through emerald waters dotted with limestone karsts on a traditional junk boat
    - Hoi An Ancient Town: stroll lantern-lit streets of a UNESCO-preserved trading port rich in global influences
    - Cu Chi Tunnels: step into Vietnam’s wartime history by exploring the famous underground network
    - Fansipan Peak: ascend by cable car to Vietnam’s highest mountain for sweeping views of valleys and temples
    - Cai Rang Floating Market: witness the Mekong come alive at dawn as boats brim with fruit, vegetables, and local chatter

  • Accommodation

    11 nights in 3-4 star hotels
    1 night on a train
    1 night on a boat

  • Meals

    Daily breakfast
    4 local lunches
    2 local dinner

  • Transport

    Arrival and Departure Transfers
    Transport in Air-conditioned Vehicles

  • Touring

    English speaking tour guide
    Entrance fees for locations specified
    Tipping for Guide and Driver

SKU: IJDB-SGJ-66-Vietnam-2024, 2025, 2026 Categories: , Tags: , ,

Departure Dates

START DAYEND DAYPRICE TWIN ROOMPRICE SINGLE ROOM
Thursday, 11 December 2025Wednesday, 24 December 202523182891
Thursday, 25 December 2025Wednesday, 07 January 202623182891
Thursday, 08 January 2026Wednesday, 21 January 202623182891
Thursday, 22 January 2026Wednesday, 04 February 202623182891
Thursday, 05 February 2026Wednesday, 18 February 202623182891
Thursday, 19 February 2026Wednesday, 04 March 202623182891
Thursday, 05 March 2026Wednesday, 18 March 202623182891
Thursday, 19 March 2026Wednesday, 01 April 202623182891
Thursday, 02 April 2026Wednesday, 15 April 202623993012
Thursday, 16 April 2026Wednesday, 29 April 202623993012
Thursday, 30 April 2026Wednesday, 13 May 202623993012
Thursday, 14 May 2026Wednesday, 27 May 202623782961
Thursday, 28 May 2026Wednesday, 10 June 202623782961
Thursday, 11 June 2026Wednesday, 24 June 202623782961
Thursday, 25 June 2026Wednesday, 08 July 202623782961
Thursday, 09 July 2026Wednesday, 22 July 202623782961
Thursday, 23 July 2026Wednesday, 05 August 202623782961
Thursday, 06 August 2026Wednesday, 19 August 202623782961
Thursday, 20 August 2026Wednesday, 02 September 202623782961
Thursday, 03 September 2026Wednesday, 16 September 202623782961
Thursday, 17 September 2026Wednesday, 30 September 202623782961
Thursday, 01 October 2026Wednesday, 14 October 202623993012
Thursday, 15 October 2026Wednesday, 28 October 202623993012
Thursday, 29 October 2026Wednesday, 11 November 202623993012
Thursday, 12 November 2026Wednesday, 25 November 202623993012
Thursday, 26 November 2026Wednesday, 09 December 202623993012
Thursday, 10 December 2026Wednesday, 23 December 202623993012
Thursday, 24 December 2026Wednesday, 06 January 202723993012
Thursday, 07 January 2027Wednesday, 20 January 202723993012
Thursday, 21 January 2027Wednesday, 03 February 202723993012
Thursday, 04 February 2027Wednesday, 17 February 202723993012
Thursday, 18 February 2027Wednesday, 03 March 202723993012
Thursday, 04 March 2027Wednesday, 17 March 202723993012
Thursday, 18 March 2027Wednesday, 31 March 202723993012

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